Methods and systems for processing touch inputs are disclosed. The invention in one respect includes reading data from a multipoint sensing device such as a multipoint touch screen where the data pertains to touch input with respect to the multipoint sensing device, and identifying at least one multipoint gesture based on the data from the multipoint sensing device.

Gestures for touch sensitive input devices

Apparatus and methods are disclosed for simultaneously tracking multiple finger (202-204) and palm (206, 207) contacts as hands approach, touch, and slide across a proximity-sensing, compliant, and flexible multi-touch surface (2). The surface consists of compressible cushion (32), dielectric electrode (33), and circuitry layers. A simple proximity transduction circuit is placed under each electrode to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio and to reduce wiring complexity. Scanning and signal offset removal on electrode array produces low-noise proximity images. Segmentation processing of each proximity image constructs a group of electrodes corresponding to each distinguishable contacts and extracts shape, position and surface proximity features for each group. Groups in successive images which correspond to the same hand contact are linked by a persistent path tracker (245) which also detects individual contact touchdown and liftoff. Classification of intuitive hand configurations and motions enables unprecedented integration of typing, resting, pointing, scrolling, 3D manipulation, and handwriting into a versatile, ergonomic computer input device.

Method and apparatus for integrating manual input

Disclosed herein is a multi-functional hand-held device capable of configuring user inputs based on how the device is to be used. Preferably, the multifunctional hand-held device has at most only a few physical buttons, keys, or switches so that its display size can be substantially increased. The multifunctional hand-held device also incorporates a variety of input mechanisms, including touch sensitive screens, touch sensitive housings, display actuators, audio input, etc. The device also incorporates a user-configurable GUI for each of the multiple functions of the devices.

Multi-functional hand-held device

An intelligent automated assistant system engages with the user in an integrated, conversational manner using natural language dialog, and invokes external services when appropriate to obtain information or perform various actions. The system can be implemented using any of a number of different platforms, such as the web, email, smartphone, and the like, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the system is based on sets of interrelated domains and tasks, and employs additional functionally powered by external services with which the system can interact.

Intelligent Automated Assistant

A user interface method is disclosed. The method includes detecting a touch and then determining a user interface mode when a touch is detected. The method further includes activating one or more GUI elements based on the user interface mode and in response to the detected touch.

Mode-based graphical user interfaces for touch sensitive input devices

By suitable use of screen-printed carbon ink patterning, combined with patterning of the solder-mask layer on the top (finger) surface, a compact capacitive touchpad pointing device has been realized using only a two-layer board as a substrate. The first layer, on the topside of the printed circuit board, combines both the horizontal and vertical sensor electrode traces. The second layer, located on the underside of the printed circuit board, is formed in the conventional manner by attaching the controller chip and/or related circuitry.

Two-layer capacitive touchpad and method of making same

An electronic device is provided making use of a touch pad module to implement user input functions. The electronic device includes a case having a region of thinner cross section than the remaining case side wall for receiving the touch pad module. The case is further provided with a through hole in the area of its thinner cross section for receiving control electronics of the touch pad module enabling the region of thinner cross section to physically support the touch pad module so that the module can be thinner than what is conventionally believed to be necessary to maintain its physical integrity while in use as an input device.

Joel A. Seely

Papers

Two-layer capacitive touchpad and method of making same

Electronic device employing a touch sensitive transducer