Portable sensory input device
First Claim
1. An input device for providing input to a portable electronic device, comprising:
- a sensor, for detecting movement of a user'"'"'s fingers on a work surface, and for generating a signal responsive to the detected movement;
a processor, coupled to the sensor, for receiving and processing the detected signal;
a port, coupled to the processor, for communicatively coupling to the portable electronic device and transmitting the processed detected signal to the portable electronic device; and
a housing, for containing the sensor, the processor, and the port.
1 Assignment
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
An input device provides input to a portable electronic device. The device detects movement of a user'"'"'s fingers on an inert work surface, and transmits signals representing the detected input to the electronic device. The input device can take any of several forms, including a cradle or protective cover that attaches to the electronic device, or a separate unit that transmits signals to the electronic device via a wired connection or wireless connection. In an embodiment, techniques are employed to properly position the input device despite user adjustment to the position of the electronic device. In an embodiment, further techniques are employed to maximize the stability of the input device and to protect its components from damage.
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Citations
26 Claims
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1. An input device for providing input to a portable electronic device, comprising:
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a sensor, for detecting movement of a user'"'"'s fingers on a work surface, and for generating a signal responsive to the detected movement;
a processor, coupled to the sensor, for receiving and processing the detected signal;
a port, coupled to the processor, for communicatively coupling to the portable electronic device and transmitting the processed detected signal to the portable electronic device; and
a housing, for containing the sensor, the processor, and the port. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17)
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18. A portable electronic device having integrated input functionality, the device comprising:
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a sensor, for detecting movement of a user'"'"'s fingers on a work surface, and for generating a signal responsive to the detected movement;
a processor, coupled to the sensor, for receiving and processing the detected signal as input for the electronic device; and
a housing, for containing both the sensor and the processor. - View Dependent Claims (19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26)
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Specification