Proximity Edge Sensing

摘要

In various implementations, a sensor operates in a force sensing mode by determining an applied force based on a first change in capacitance between first and second electrodes related to compression of a compressible material positioned between while the third electrode functions as a shield and in a proximity sensing mode by sensing proximity of an object based on a second change in capacitance of the third electrode while the first and/or second electrodes function as a shield. In some implementations, a device has a cover glass including a surface having a display area, an edge surface, and a cavity; a touch sensing electrode oriented toward the surface; an electrode positioned in the cavity oriented toward the edge surface; and a processing unit operable to detect touch or proximity of an object to the edge surface based on a change in capacitance between the electrode and the object.

主权项

1. A combined proximity and force sensor, comprising:
a first electrode; a second electrode; a compressible material separating the first and second electrodes; and a third electrode coupled to the first electrode; wherein the combined proximity and force sensor is operable to: produce a first signal indicating a first change in capacitance between the first and second electrodes related to compression of the compressible material while the third electrode functions as a force sensing ground shield, the first signal usable by a processing unit to determine an applied force; and produce a second signal indicating a second change in capacitance of the third electrode while the first electrode functions as a proximity ground shield, the second signal usable by the processing unit to sense proximity of an object.