18484320. Electronic Devices Having Moisture-Insensitive Optical Touch Sensors simplified abstract (Apple Inc.)

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Electronic Devices Having Moisture-Insensitive Optical Touch Sensors

Organization Name

Apple Inc.

Inventor(s)

Mohammad Yeke Yazdandoost of San Francisco CA (US)

Christoph H. Krah of Cupertino CA (US)

Electronic Devices Having Moisture-Insensitive Optical Touch Sensors - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18484320 titled 'Electronic Devices Having Moisture-Insensitive Optical Touch Sensors

Simplified Explanation

The abstract of this patent application describes an electronic device with a touch-sensitive display that is not affected by moisture. It explains that the display has an array of pixels used to display images, and a display cover layer that overlaps the pixel array. The device also includes a light source that illuminates an external object, such as a user's finger, when it touches the surface of the display cover layer. This creates scattered light that can be detected by an array of light sensors. The light source is positioned at an angle that ensures total internal reflection within the display cover layer, even when it is immersed in water or exposed to moisture.

  • An electronic device with a touch-sensitive display that is not affected by moisture.
  • The display includes an array of pixels for displaying images.
  • A display cover layer overlaps the pixel array.
  • A light source illuminates an external object, like a user's finger, when it touches the display cover layer.
  • Scattered light created by the object is detected by an array of light sensors.
  • The light source is positioned to maintain total internal reflection within the display cover layer, even when it is wet.

Potential Applications

  • Mobile phones and tablets that can be used in wet or humid environments without affecting the touch sensitivity.
  • Outdoor displays and signage that can withstand exposure to rain or other moisture.
  • Medical devices that can be used in sterile environments without the risk of moisture interfering with touch functionality.

Problems Solved

  • Overcoming the issue of moisture affecting the touch sensitivity of electronic devices.
  • Allowing users to interact with touch-sensitive displays even when they are wet or exposed to moisture.
  • Ensuring the reliability and functionality of electronic devices in various environmental conditions.

Benefits

  • Improved usability and functionality of electronic devices in wet or humid conditions.
  • Increased durability and resistance to moisture-related damage.
  • Expanded range of applications for touch-sensitive displays in various industries.


Original Abstract Submitted

An electronic device may have a touch sensitive display that is insensitive to the presence of moisture. An array of pixels in the display may be used to display images. A display cover layer may overlap the array of pixels. A light source may illuminate an external object such as a finger of a user when the object contacts a surface of the display cover layer. This creates scattered light that may be detected by an array of light sensors. The light source may supply light to an edge of the display cover layer at an angle that ensures total internal reflection within the display cover layer is sustained across the display cover layer even when the display cover layer is immersed in water or otherwise exposed to moisture.

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