Optical sensor based user interface for a portable electronic device
US6816154B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 30, 2001 |
| Grant date | Nov 9, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 13, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04W88/02
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and method are described herein, which simultaneously promotes a positive computing experience for users of portable computer systems and increases overall durability and longevity thereof. In one embodiment, an optical apparatus enhances the user computing experience, in one embodiment by simplifying operation, and is much more durable and long-lasting than mechanical switch and dial type devices it may replace. In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to an apparatus, which enables efficient portable computer device function, field, and data selection, gaming, input, interconnection, and other switching-related functions, simplifying operation and enhancing versatility thereof, yet without exposing the portable computer interior to any degree to incursion of environmental contamination. In one embodiment, an optical apparatus obviates openings in a portable computer package which would otherwise be required. In one embodiment, the apparatus, capable of sensing manipulation and directed by software, has a light source and corresponding light sensor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.