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

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

Proximity based systems and methods that are implemented on an electronic device are disclosed. The method includes sensing an object spaced away and in close proximity to the electronic device. The method also includes performing an action in the electronic device when an object is sensed.

Proximity detector in handheld device

A technique for creating a touch-sensitive input device is proposed which allows multiple, simultaneous users to interact in an intuitive fashion. Touch location information is determined independently for each user, allowing each touch on a common surface to be associated with a particular user. The surface generates location dependent, modulated electric fields which are capacitively coupled through the users to receivers installed in the work environment. We describe the design of these systems and their applications. Finally, we present results we have obtained with a small prototype device.

/pdf/diamondtouch-a-multi-user-touch-technology-4zeji1me3s.pdf

DiamondTouch: a multi-user touch technology

Touch-sensitive tablets and their use in human-computer interaction are discussed. It is shown that such devices have some important properties that differentiate them from other input devices (such as mice and joysticks). The analysis serves two purposes: (1) it sheds light on touch tablets, and (2) it demonstrates how other devices might be approached. Three specific distinctions between touch tablets and one button mice are drawn. These concern the signaling of events, multiple point sensing and the use of templates. These distinctions are reinforced, and possible uses of touch tablets are illustrated, in an example application. Potential enhancements to touch tablets and other input devices are discussed, as are some inherent problems. The paper concludes with recommendations for future work.

/pdf/issues-and-techniques-in-touch-sensitive-tablet-input-4frfjtqubq.pdf

Peter Rowley

Papers

Issues and techniques in touch-sensitive tablet input

Issues and techniques in touch-sensitive tablet input