Data input device power management including beacon state
US7023425B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 5, 2004 |
| Grant date | Apr 4, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 20, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02D10/00
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Power management is provided in a user operated data input device utilizing proximity sensing and switching between three or more power states. Switching between the power states occurs based upon the presence or absence of input activity, and an operation instrumentality (e.g., a hand) in close proximity to or contact with the device. Capacitive proximity sensing is carried out be detecting a relative change in the capacitance of a “scoop” capacitor formed by a conductor and a surrounding ground plane. In an optical surface tracking cursor control device embodiment, switching to and from a BEACON state, which provides a reduced flash rate of a surface illuminating light source, is carried out based upon a detected presence or absence of a trackable surface.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.