Methods and systems for changing the appearance of a position sensor with a light effect
US7382360B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 15, 2003 |
| Grant date | Jun 3, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 25, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F3/042
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Methods and systems are provided for producing a light effect on a touchpad or other position sensor. In one aspect, a position sensor for detecting a position of an object suitably includes a sensor, a light source, and a light conductor at least partially located between the sensor and the object. The light conductor is configured to transmit light from the light source to produce a light effect that alters the appearance of the position sensor. Because the light conductor is located between the sensor and the object, the sensor need not be made from transparent or translucent material, thereby significantly reducing the cost of the sensor. In a further aspect, the position sensor includes at least one marking or pattern in proximity to the light conductor such that the marking can be made visible by at least a component of the light to produce an image of a soft control, logo, ornamental design, status indicator or the like.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.