Multi-touch sensing through frustrated total internal reflection
US8259240B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 26, 2012 |
| Grant date | Sep 4, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 26, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S385/901
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
High-resolution, scalable multi-touch sensing display systems and processes based on frustrated total internal reflection employ an optical waveguide that receives light, such as infrared light, that undergoes total internal reflection and an imaging sensor that detects light that escapes the optical waveguide caused by frustration of the total internal reflection due to contact by a user. The optical waveguide when fitted with a compliant surface overlay provides superior sensing performance, as well as other benefits and features. The systems and processes described provide true multi-touch (multi-input) and high-spatial and temporal resolution capability due to the continuous imaging of the frustrated total internal reflection that escapes the entire optical waveguide. Among other features and benefits, the systems and processes are scalable to large installations.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.