Touch switches and practical applications therefor
US8227940B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 14, 2011 |
| Grant date | Jul 24, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 14, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH03K2017/9602
- WIPO fieldBasic communication processes
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A touch switch apparatus emulating a mechanical switch includes a field effect sensor and an electric field stimulator mechanically associated with the field effect sensor. A field generation signal applied to the field effect sensor causes an electric field to be generated thereabout. The electric field stimulator can be moved between first and second positions with respect to the field effect sensor. When moved into proximity with the field effect sensor, the electric field stimulator disturbs the electric field. A detection circuit coupled to the field effect sensor detects and responds to the disturbance to the electric field.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.