`
`
`
`circuitry shown in FIG. 6 is very stable over the
`temperature range of -40° C. to 105° C. The
`output of the touch switeh circuitry drops at a
`rate of approximately 40 mV/°C when
`temperature fails below 0° C.
`If application
`requires operation at low ternperatures (-40° C)
`the following three methods may be used to
`increase the output of the switch:increase the
`oscillator's regulated supply voltage, increasethe |
`resistance of resistor 416, and use a 40 higher
`|
`gain transistor 410. All of these methods would
`increase sensitivity at high ternperatures.” Col.
`16:33-41,
`
`
`amicrocontrollerusingthe
`
`eriodic output signal from the oscillator,
`
`the microcontroller selectively providing
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`spaced array of input touch terminals of a
`keypad, the input touch terminals
`
`comprising first and second input touch
`terminals;
`
`The “183 Patent discloses “The touch detection
`circuit of the present invention featares operation |
`at frequencies at or above SOkHz and preferably |
`at or above 800 kHz to minimize the effects of
`surface contamination for materials such a skin
`cils and water. Tt also offers iraprovernents in
`detection sensitivity that allow close control of
`the degree of proximity Gdeally very close
`proximity} that is required for actuation andto
`enable ernployment of a multiplicity of small
`size touch terminals in a physical close array
`such as a keyboard.” Col, 5:49-57.
`
`The “183 Patent discloses “In a first preferred
`embodiment the circuit offers enhanced
`detection sensitivity to allowreliable operation
`with srnall (finger size) touch pads.” Col. 6:1-3.
`
` See Figures 4, 11; and Claims 8, [2, 16, 27.
`
`The 163 Patent discloses “Although the
`preferred frequencyis at or above 100 kHz, and
`more preferably at or above 800 kHz, it is
`conceivable that frequencies as low as 50 kHz
`could be used provided the frequencycreates a
`difference in the impedancepaths of adjacent
`pads that is sufficient enough to accurately
`distinguish between an intended touch and the
`touch of an adjacent pad. Us of frequencies as
`
`low as 30 KHz mayalso be possible depending
`
`NAR-S796183RX
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`~7
`Page 28 of 37
`
`SAMSUNG EXHIBIT 1006 (Part 3 of 8)
`
`Page 501 of 1714
`
`
`
`SAMSUNG EXHIBIT 1006 (Part 3 of 8)
`
`

`

`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`type of glass or covering or the
`upon the
`
`thickness thereof used for the touch pad.” Col.
`11:19-27,
`
`
`The “183 Patent discloses “Upon being powered
`by voltage regulator 100, oscillator 200
`generates a square wave with a frequency of 30
`
`kHz, and preferably greater than 800 kHz, and
`
`having an amplitude of 26 V peak, The square
`
`wave generated by oscillator 200 ts suppliedvia
`
`Hne 201]to a floating common generator 300, a
`
`touch padshield plate 460, a touch circuit 400,
`
`and a microcontroller 500. Oscillator 200 is
`
`
`described below with reference to FIG. 6.
`
`Floating cornmon generator 300 receives the 26
`Y peak square wave from oscillator 200 and
`
`outputs a regnlated floating common thatis 5
`
`volts below the square wave output from
`
`oscillator 200 and has the same phase and
`
`frequencyas the received square wave. This
`
`floating common output is supplied to touch
`
`cireatt 400 and microcontroller 500 via tine 301
`
`
`such that the output square wave from oscillator
`20) and floating common output from floating
`
`common generator 300 provide power to touch
`
`circuit 400 and microcontroller 500, Details of
`
`
`floating common generator 300 are discussed
`below with reference to PIG. 7. Touch circuit
`
`
`400 senses capacitance from a touch pad 450 via
`line 451 and ontpats a signal to microcontroller
`
`500 via line 40 lupon detecting a capacitance to
`
`ground at touch pad 450 that exceeds a threshold
`
`valuc. The details of touch circuit 400 are
`
`
`described below with reference to FIC. 8.
`
`Upon receiving an indication fromtouch circuit
`400 that a sufficient capacitance to ground.
`
`{typically at least 20 pF) is present at touch pad
`
`450, microcontroHer 500 outputs a signal to a
`
`load-coniroiling microcontrolter 600 via line
`
`SOL, which is preferably a two way optical
`
`coupling bus.” Col, 12:6-33.
`
`
`The “183 Patent discloses “As will be apparent
`to those skilled in the art, the values of the
`
`NAR-5796183RX
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`

`

`
`
`may be varied from those disclosed above to
`provide for different oscillator output
`frequencies.” Col. 14:22-25.
`
`The “L83 Patent discloses “A multiple touch pad
`circuit constructed in accordance with the second
`embodiment is shown in PEG. 11.
`[n the second
`embodiment of FIG. 11, components simularto
`those in the first embodiment in FIG. 4 are
`designated with the same references numerals
`and will not be discussed in detail. The multiple
`touch pad circuit is a variation of the first
`embodiment in that it includes an array of touch
`circuits designated as 9001 through 9G0nm,
`which, as shown, include both the touch circuit
`400 shown in FIGS. 4 and § and the input touch
`terminal pad 451 (PIG. 4). Microcontroller 500
`selects each rowof the touch circuits 9001
`through 900nm by providing the signal from
`oscillator 200to selected rows of touchcircuits.
`In this manner, microcontroller 500 can
`sequentially activate the touch circuit rows and
`associate the received inputs from the columns
`of the array with the activated touch circuit(s).
`To keep the path length 451 between the touch
`pad 450 and the base to the detection transistor
`410 to a minimum, the detection circuits 900 are
`physically located directly beneath the touch
`pads. To simplify assembly, a flexible circuit
`board such as vended by Sheidahl, Inc. or Circuit
`Etching Technics, Inc. can be used for this
`purpose. Ideally, the printed circuit will be fixed
`directly against the surface (typically glass}
`bearing the condactive touch pads to eluminate
`air gaps and the need for conductive foam pads
`and spring contacts which were usedto fill air
`gaps.” Col. 18:34-59.
`
` resistors and capacitors utilized in oscillator 2
`See Claim 27.
`
`
`the first and secondtouch
`terminals defining areas for an operatorto
`provide an input by proximity and touch:
`and
`
`NAR-5796183RX
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`
`

`

` a detector circuit coupledto said
`
`See Figures 4, 11;
`
`and Claims &, 12,
`6,
`
`The “183 Patent discloses “Upon being powered
`by voltage regulator 100, oscillator 200
`generates a square wave with a frequency of 50
`kHz, and preferably greater than 800 kHy, and
`having an amplitude of 26 V peak. The square
`wave generated by oscillator 200 is supplied via
`line 201 to a floating common generator 300, a
`touch pad shield plate 460, a touch circuit 400,
`and a microcontroller 300. Oscillator 200is
`described below with reference to FIG. 6.
`Floating common generator 300 receives the 26
`V peak square wave fromoscillator 200 and
`outputs a regulated floating common that is 5
`volts belowthe square wave output from
`oscillator 200 and has the sarne phase and
`frequencyas the received square wave.
`‘This
`floating common output is supplied to touch
`circuit 400 and microcontroller 500 via Hne 361
`such that the output square wave fromoscillator
`200 and floating cornmon ontpat trom floating
`common generator 300 provide powerto touch
`circuit 400 and microcontroller 500. Details of
`floating common generator 300 are discussed
`belowwith reference to FIG. 7. Touch circuit
`4Q0 senses capacitance from a touch pad 450via
`line 451 and outputs a signal to microcontroller
`500 via line 40iupon detecting a capacitance to
`ground at touch pad 450 that exceeds a threshold
`value. The details of touch circuit 400 are
`described below with reference to PRG. 8.
`Upon receiving an indication from touch circuit
`490 that a sufficient capacitance to ground
`(typically at least 20 pF) is present at touch pad
`450, microcontroller 500 outputs a signal to a
`load-controlling microcontroller 600 via line
`501, which is preferably a two wayoptical
`coupling bus.” Col. 12:6-33,
`
`The “183 Patent discloses “A multiple touch pad
`circuit constructed in accordance with the second
`erobodiment is shown in FRG. 11.
`In the second
`
`
`
`
`
`oscillatorfor receiving said periodic
`outpat signal from said oscillator, and
`coupled to said first and second touch
`terminals, said detector circuit being
`responsive to signals fromsaid oscillator
`via said microcontroller and [the] a
`presence of an operator's body capacitance
`to ground coupledto said first and second
`touch terminals when proximal or touched
`
`output signal for actuation of the
`controlled device, said detector circuit
`bemg configured to generate said contro!
`output signal when [an] the operatoris
`proximal or touches said second touch
`terminal after the operator is proximal or
`touches said first touch terminal.
`
`NAR-5796183RX
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`

`

`
`
` these
`
`in the first ernbodiment in FIG, 4 are
`designated with the same references numerals
`and will not be discussed in detail. The multiple
`touch pad circuit is a variation of the first
`embodiment in that it includes an array of touch
`circuits designated as 9001 through 9GQnm,
`which, as shown, include both the touch circuit
`400 shown in FIOS. 4 and 8 and the input touch
`terminal pad 451 (PIG, 4). Microcontroller 500
`selects each row ofthe touch circuits 9001
`through 000mby providing the signal from
`oscillator 200 to selected rows of touch cirenits.
`in this manner, microcontroller 500 can
`sequentially activate the touch circuit rows and
`associate the received inputs from the columns
`of the array with the activated touch circuit(s).
`To keep the path length 451 between the touch
`pad 450 and the base to the detection transistor
`41) to a minimum, the detection circuits 900 are
`physically located directly beneath the touch
`pads. To simplify assembly, a flexible circuit
`board such as vended by Sheldahl, Inc. or Circuit
`Etching Technics, Inc. can be used forthis
`purpose. Ideally, the printed circuit will be fixed
`directly against the surface (typically glass}
`bearing the conductive touch pads to climinate
`air gaps and the need for conductive foam pads
`and spring contacts which were used to fill air
`gaps.” Col. 18:34-39,
`
`J. New Clanm 38
`
`
`useful in caseswhere asequence ofaactuations is
`
`
`switching circuit as defined in claim 37,
`wherein feedback to the operatoris
`provided byan indicator activated bythe
`microcontroller after the operator touches
`the second touch terminal.
`
`Cisims 27, 32.
`
`The “183 Patent discloses “The microprocessor
`also allows the use of visual indicators such as
`LEDs or annunciators such as a bell or tone
`generator to confirm the actuation of a given
`touch switch or switches. This is particularly
`
`NAR-5796183RX
`
`Page 505 of 1714
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`

`

`
`
`to the operator provided by a visual or audio
`indicator activated by the microprocessor in
`response to intermediate touches in a required
`sequerice can minimize time lost and/or
`frustration on the part of the operator due to
`failed actuations frompartial touches or wrong
`actuations fromtouching the wrong pad ina
`given required sequence or combination of
`touches.” Col, 6:31-42.
`
`
`
`The “183 Patent discloses “A flirther optionis to
`provide one or more LEDs 2205 or audible
`annunciators for visual or audible feedback to
`the operator. Specifically, im PIG. 19 the LED
`2205 will come on when button 2201 has been
`successfully activated to cue the operator thatit
`is time to move to button 2202. Where required
`a second LED with a different color than the first
`(yellowfor the first LED andred for the second)
`can be provided to provide visual confirmation
`that the second button 2202 has been activated or
`that the required combination of the two buttons
`has been activated. Two different audible tone
`or sound generators could afso be used in lieu of
`the LEDs to provide feedback to the operator.”
`Col, 23:1-12.
`
`The “183 Patent discloses “A red LED 2305 on
`top of the device shows the completion of the
`two step tum-on andactivation of output relay
`2310." Col. 23:28-30,
`
`K. New Chaim 39
`
`
`
`39, The capacitive responsive electronic|Clair27.
`switching circuit as defined in claim 37,
`
`wherein said detector circuit
`compares a sensed body capacitance
`
`charge caused by the body capacitance
`The “183 Patent discloses “Another method for
`
`See Figure fi; and Claims 1, 12, 16, 18, 27, 28.
`
`NAR-5796183RX
`
`Page 33 of 37
`
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`
`

`

`
`
`
`
`
`
` implementing capacitive touch switches reli
`
`signal
`decreasing a second touch termima!
`on the detector to ground when proximate
`to the second touch terminal to a threshold
`level to generate the control output signal,
`and
`
`the change in capacitive coupling between a
`touch terminal and ground, Systems utilizing
`such a method are described in U.S. Pat. No.
`4,758,735 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,087,825. With
`this methodology the detection circuit consists of
`an oscillator (or AC line voltage derivative}
`providing a signal to a touch terminal whose
`voltage is then monitored by a detector. The
`touch terminal is driven in electrical series with
`other components that fanction in part as a
`charge pump. The touch of an operator then
`provides a capacitive short to ground via the
`operator's own body capacitance that lowers the
`amplitude of oscillator voltage seen at the touch
`terminal.” Col. 3:44-36.
`
`The “183 Patent discloses “The touch detection
`circuit of the present invention featares operation
`at frequencies at or above 50kHz and preferably
`at or above 800 kHz to minimize the effects of
`surface contamination for materials such a skin
`oils and water. ft also offers improvements in
`detection sensitivity that allow close control of
`the degree of proximity (ideally very close
`proximity) that is required for actuation and to
`enable employment of a multiplicity of small
`size touch terminals in a physical close array
`such as a keyboard.” Col. 5:49-57.
`
`The “183 Patent discloses “Although the
`preferred frequencyis at or above 100 kHz, and
`more preferably at or above 800 kHz, it is
`conceivable that frequencies as low as 30 kHz
`could be used provided the frequencycreates a
`difference in the impedance paths of adjacent
`pads that is sufficient enough to accurately
`distingnish between an intended touch and the
`touch of an adjacent pad. Us of frequencies as
`low as 30 kHz mayalso be possible depending
`upon the type of glass or covering or the
`thickness thereof used for the touch pad.” Col.
`11:19-27,
`
`NAR-5796183RX
`
`Page 34 of 37
`
`Page 507 of 1714
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`
`

`

`
`
`
`
`
`
`“Touch cirenit 400
`The “183 Patent discloses
`senses capacitance from a touch pad 450 via line
`451 and outpats a signal to microcontroller 500
`via line 40 lupon detecting a capacitance to
`ground at touch pad 450 that exceeds a threshold
`valuc. The details of touch circuit 400 are
`described below with reference to FIG. 8." Col.
`12:24-28.
`
`
`
`wherein feedback to the operatorts
`provided by an indicator activated bythe
`microcontroller after the operator touches
`the second touch terminal.
`
`The “183 Patent discloses “As will be apparent
`to those skilled in the art, the values of the
`resistors and capacitors utilized in oscillator 200
`maybe varied from those disclosed above to
`provide for different oscillator output
`frequencies.” Col. 14:22-25.
`~
`See Claims 27, 32.
`
`The “183 Patent discloses “The microprocessor
`also allows the use of visual indicators such as
`LEDs or anrrunciators suck as a bell or tone
`generator te confirm the actuation of a given
`touch switch or switches. This is particularly
`useful in cases where a sequence of actuations is
`required before an action occurs. The feedback
`to the operator provided by a visual or audio
`indicator activated by the microprocessor in
`response to intermediate touches in a required
`sequerice can minimize time lost and/or
`frustration on the part of the operator due to
`failed actuations from partial touches or wrong
`actuations from touching the wrong pad ina
`given required sequence or combination of
`touches.” Col, 6:31-42.
`
`The “183 Patent disclases “A further option is to
`provide one or more LEDs 2205 or audible
`anmunciators for visual or audible feecback to
`the operator, Specifically, in FIG. 19 the LED
`2205 will come on when button 2201 has been
`successfully activated to cue the operator thatit
`is time to move to button 2202. Where required
`a second LED with a different color than the first
`(yellow for the first LED and red for the second)
`
`NAR-5796183RX
`
`Page 35 of 37
`
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`
`

`

`
`
`
`
`
`can be provided to provide visual confirmation
`
`that the second button 2202 has been activated or
`that the required combination of the two buttons
`has been activated. Two different audible tone
`
`or sound generators could also be used in heu of
`
`the LEDs to provide feedback to the operator.”
`Col. 23:1-12.
`
`on
`The “183 Patent discloses “A red LED 2305
`
`top of the device shows the completion of th
`two step turm-on and activation of output relay
`2310,” Col, 23:28-30,.
`
`
`
`
`
`NAR-5796183RX
`
`Page 36 of 37
`
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`
`Page 509 of 1714
`
`€
`

`

`VY. Conclusion
`
`in view of the above, Patent Owner submits that the claims are in condition for
`
`allowance. No new matter has been added bythis submission. If Examiner should have any
`
`questions, please contact Patent Owner’s Attorney, Brian A. Carlson, at 972-732-1001. The
`
`Commissioner is hereby authorized to charge anyfees due in connection with this filing, or
`
`credit any overpayment, to Deposit Account No. 50-1065,
`
`Respectfully sabrnitted,
`
`
`‘Brian A. Carlson/
`Brian A. Carlson
`Atiorney for Patent Owner
`Reg. No. 37,793
`
`
`Novernber 19, 2012
`Date
`
`SLATER & MATSIL, LLLP.
`17950 Preston Rd., Suite 1600
`Dallas. Texas 75252
`Tel: 972-732-1001
`Fax: 972-732-9218
`
`NAR-5796183RX
`
`Page 37 of 3
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`

`

`eT
`
`
`
` 2§ PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
`
`UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
`
`Patent
`and Trademark Office
`SR POR Py NTS
`, Virginia 22314-1450
`
`gov
`
`
`
`9Y01 2.439
`
`OB/T 7/2042
`
`$796 183
`
`NAR-57961B3RX
`
`
`
`25962
`
`7590
`
`GAV10/2014
`
`SLATER & MATSIL, LIP.
`17950 PRUSTON RD, SUITE 1600
`DALLAS, PA 75252-3793
`
`
`PAPER NUMBER
`
`NGUYEN, LINE M
`nen
`'
`
`'
`ART UNIT
`
`DELIVERY MODE
`
`MAIL DATE
`
`O4/L2613
`
`PAPER
`
`Please find below and/or attached an Office communication concerning this application or proceeding.
`
`The time period for reply, if any, is set in the attached communication,
`
`PTOL-90A (Rev. 04/07)
`
`Page 511 of 1714
`
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`
`

`

`
`
`Control No.
`
`Patent Under Reexamination
`
`Notice of intent fo issue
`Ex Parte Reexamination Certificate
`
`9796183
`80/0 12,439
`iExaminer0sAtUR
`
`i LINH M. NGUYEN
`
`3992
`
`~ The MAILING DATE of this communication appears on the cover sheet with the correspondence address --
`1. LJ Prosecution on the merils is (or rernains) closed in this ex parte reexamination proceeding. This proceeding is
`subject io reopeningat the initiative of the Office or upon petition. Cf 37 CFR 1.313{a). A Certificate will be issued
`( viewof
`(a) EX] Patent owner's communication(s) fled: 19 November 2
`b} [] Patent owner's failure to file an appropriate timaly ee to the Office action mailed:
`)
`([] Patent owner's failure to timely file an Appeal Brief (87 CFR 41.31).
`
`2.
`
`The Resxamination Cerificate will indicate the following:
`(a) Change in the Specification:
`[] Yes No
`
`(b) Ghange in the Drawing(si}: [0] YesIX}No
`(c) Status of the Claim({s):
`(1} Patent claini{(s) confirmed:
`(2) Pateni claim{s) amended Unciuding depencent on amenced claim(s}}: 1827.28 and 32
`{3} Patent claim(s) canceled:
`.
`{4} Newly presented ciaim(s} paientable: 33-39.
`(5) Newly oresented canceled claims:
`
`(6) Patent claim(s) [] previously [] currently disclaimed:
`(7) Pateni claimis not subject to reexamination: 1-17, 19-26 ang 29-31.
`
`Note the attached statement of reasons for patentability and/or confirmation. Any comments considered necessary
`by patent owner regarding reasons for patentability and/or confirmation must be suomitted promptly to avoid
`processing delays. Such submission(s) should be labeled: “Comments On Statement of Reasons for Patentability
`and/or Confirmation.”
`
`3.
`
`baa
`
`Note atlacned NOTICE OF REFERENCES CITED (PTOQ-892).
`
`N@oPOO The drawing correction requesifiled on
`
`Note attached LIST OF REFERENCES CITED (PTO/SB/a8 or PTO/SB/08 substitute).
`
`is) Ciapproved
`[] disapproved.
`
`Acknowledgment is made of the priority claim under 35 U.S.C. § 119¢a)-(c} or @).
`aLiAl bE} Some’
`cl] None
`of ihe certified copies have
`[| been received.
`[| not beenreceived.
`(_] beenfiled in Apolicaiion Ne.
`[| been fited in reexamination Control No.
`auinPC”2) ApplicationNo.
`[| been receivedby the International Bureau in P
`
`* Certified copies not received:
`
`8. [] Note attached Examiner's Amendment.
`
`9. [] Note atiached Interview Summary (PTO-474).
`10.0] Other:
`
`All correspondence relaiing to this reexamination proceecing should be directed to ine Central Reexamination Unil al
`the mail, FAX, or hand-carry ‘addresses given at the end of this Office action.
`
`ce: Requester if third party requester)
`US. Patent and Trademark Office
`PTOL-469 (Rey. 67-10)
`Notice of intent fo issue Ex Parle Reexamination Certificate
`
`Fart of Paper No 20130327
`
`Page 512 of 1714
`
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`
`

`

`Application/Control Number: 90/012,439
`Art Unit: 3992
`
`Page 2
`
`Notice of Intent to Issue Reexamination Certificate
`
`‘This is a reexamination of United States Patent Nurmber 5,796,183 (the 183’ patent”). In
`
`the reexamination request filed 08/17/2012 (Request), by Patent Owner, a substantial new
`
`question (SNQ) of patentability was raised as to claims 18 and 27. Those claims are thus
`
`reexamined herein, Reexamination was not requested of claims 1-17, 19-26 and 28-32,
`
`Therefore, claims L-17, 19-26, and 27-31 will not be reexamined. See MPEP 2243. However,
`
`claims 28 and 32 will be reexarnined, as farther explained below.
`
`A Patent Owner Statement was filed 11/19/2012, in which claims 18 and 27 were
`
`amended, as well as claims 28 and 32 due to their dependencies from claim 27. Furthermore,
`
`new claims 33-39 were added.
`
`Within the examimer’s discretion, the newly added claims 33-39 and the non-requested
`
`amended claims 28 and 32 are nowsubject to reexamination.
`
`References
`
`Boie et al., U.S. Patent No. 3,463,388, filed on January 29, 1993 and issued on October
`
`31, 1996 (“Boie “388").
`
`Page 513 of 1714
`
`Page 513 of 1714
`
`

`

`Application/Control Number: 90/012,439
`Art Unit: 3992
`
`Page 3
`
`Statement af Reasons for Patentability and/or Confirmation
`
`Claims £8, 2
`
`~i:
`
`ao
`, amended non-requested claims 28, 32 and newly added claims 33-39are
`
`patentable,
`
`The examiner has no opinion as to the claims that were not reexamined. The following is
`
`an examiner’s staternent of reasons for patentability of the claims found patentable in this
`
`reexamination proceeding:
`
`There is not taught or disclosed in the prior art a capacitive responsive electronic
`
`switching circuit having a microcontrolier using the periodic output signal from the oscillator,
`
`the microcontroller selectively providing signal outputfrequenciesto a plurality of small sized
`
`input touch terminals of a keypad, as called for in independent claim 18; nor «@ capacitive
`
`responsive electronic switching circuit having a microcontroller using the periodic output signal
`
`from the oscillator, the microcontroller selectively providing signal output frequencies to a
`
`closely spaced array ofinput touch terminals ofa keypad, the input touch terminals comprising
`
`first and second input touch ternunais, as calledfor in independent claims 27 and 37. The
`
`examiner agrees with the discussion articulated by Patent Owner in the Statement that Boie does
`
`not teach or suggest these claim elements. Rather, Boie discloses that "RF oscillator 408
`
`provides an RP signal, for example, 100 kilohertz, to circuits 401, synchronous detector andfilter
`
`404 via inverter 410, and guard plane 411." Boe, col. 3:67-col. 4:2. Boie further discloses that
`
`"Ttjhe eftects of electrode-to-electrode capacitances, wiring capacitances and other extraneous
`
`Page 514 of 1714
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`Page 514 of 1714
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`

`

`Application/Control Number: 90/012,439
`Art Unit: 3992
`
`Page 4
`
`capacitances arc minimized by driving all electrodes and guard plane 411 in unison with the
`
`same RF signal from RP oscillator 408." fd. at col. 4:58-60 (emphasis added}; see id. at Fig. 4.
`
`Thus Bote discloses driving the electrodes of electrode array 100 and guard plane 411 witha
`
`single RFsignal. Boie does not teach or suggest providing signal output frequencies to these
`
`components. Accordingly, claims 18, 27, amended non-requested claims 28, 32, and newly
`
`added claims 33-39 are patentable.
`
`Any comments considered necessary by PATENT OWNER regarding the above
`
`staternent avast be submitted promptly to avoid processing delays. Such submission by the
`
`patent owner should be labeled: "Comments on Statement of Reasons for Patentability and/or
`
`Confirmation” and will be placed in the reexaminationfile.
`
`Page 515 of 1714
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`

`

`Application/Control Number: 90/012,439
`Art Unit: 3992
`
`Page 5
`
`Correspondence
`
`ANcorrespondence relating tothis inter partes reexanmoalion proceeding should be directed:
`By Mailto: Mail Stop Inter Partes Reexam
`Attn: Central Reexamination Unit
`Commissioner for Patents
`United States Patent & Trademark Office
`P.O. Box 1450
`Ajexandria, VA 22313-1480
`
`By FAX to:
`
`(571) 273-9900
`Central Reexamination Unit
`
`Byhand:
`
`Customer Service Window
`Randolph Building
`401 DulanyStreet
`Alexaadria, VA 22314
`
`Registered users of EFS-Web mayalternatively submit such correspondence via the electronic hling system
`RFS -Weh,at hitps://efs uspto.gov/enile/myportal/efs-registered EFS-Weboffers the henefit of quick
`
`
`
`subinission ts the particular area uf the Office that needs to act on the correspondence. Also, EFS-Web
`submissions are “soft scanned” (Le., clectronically uploaded} directlyinto the official file for the
`reexamination proceeding, which offers partes the opportunity to review the content of their submissions after
`the “‘soft scanning” process is complete.
`
`Apy inquiry conceming this comrounication or earber communications from the examiner, or as to the
`states of this procecding, should be directedto the Central Reexamination Unit at telephone mumber (571) 272-
`fd
`.
`7TTOS
`
`/Lanh M. Nguyen/
`Primary Examiner, Art Unit 3992
`
`Conferees:
`‘Tames Menefee/
`Primary Examiner, Art Unit 3992
`
`/Daniel Ryman/
`Supervisory Patent Examiner, Art Limit 3992
`
`Page 516 of 1714
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`

`
`
`ay EX PARTE REEXAMINATION CERTIFICATE (9614th)
`
`=
`
`00579696183C1
`
`United States Patent
`Hourmand et al.
`
`US 5,796,183 Cl
`(0) Number:
`
`45) Certificate Issued:
`Apr. 29, 2013
`
`(54) CAPACTTIVE RESPONSIVE ELECTRONIC
`SWITCHING CIRCUIT
`
`(73) Taventors: Byron Hourmand, Horscy, MI US):
`Jdotm M. Washeleski, Cadillac, MI (US);
`Stephen BR. W. Cooper, Fowlerville, MI
`CUS)
`
`(72) Assignee: Nartres Carporation, Reed City, MT
`CUS)
`
`.o.
`7
`Reexamination Request:
`No. 90/012,435, Aug. 17, 2012
`
`Reexamination Certificate for:
`Patent No.:
`5,796,183
`Issued:
`Ang, 18, 1998
`Appi. No.:
`3/601,268
`Miled:
`dan. 31, 1996
`
`Certificate of Correctionissued May 11, 1999
`Certificate of Correctionissued Oct, 11, 2011
`
`(34)
`
`int. Ch.
`HOBK FIG
`HGIK F794
`(32) US.Ch
`USPC ee 307/416; 307/125; 307/139; 361/181
`
`.
`(2006.01)
`(2006,Ol)
`
`(58) Bield of Classification Search
`None
`See application file for complete search history.
`References Cited
`(36)
`To view the complete listing of prior art documents cited
`
`
`during the proceeding for Reexamination Control
`! 3A39, please refer to the USPTO’s public Patent
`
`Retrieval (PAIR) system under the
`Application Informe
`
`Tysplay References
`Primary Examiner — Linh M. Nenyen
`{57}
`ABSTRACT
`A, capacitive responsive clectronic switching circuit com-
`prises an oscillator providing a periodic outout signal having
`a frequency of 50 KH» or yrealer, an input touch terminal
`defining an area for an operator providean input bv proximity
`
`and touch, and a detec
`cuit coupled to the oscillator for
`receiving the periodic output signal from the oscillator, and
`
`
`coupled to the input tonch terminal. The detector circuit being
`
`
`responsive to signals from the oscillator and the presence of
`
`at operator’s body capacitance to ground coupled to the
`
`
`touchterminal whenin proximityor touched by an operatorto
`
`
`
`provide a
`contre! output
`signal. Preferably, the oscillator pro-
`
`vides a periodic oulput
`a frequency of 800 kA
`
`
`
`or greater. An array of touch teri
`ve provided in
`
`close proximity due to the reduction in
`staik that
`may
`
`
`result from contaminants by unlizing an oscillator outputting
`a signal having a frequency of 50 kz or greater.
`
`srmerermrerewrnencamnremernnmareffpocaenananeewnareatiarecceveraanerany panacea GROUND }—-—--
`
`300
`200
`
`FLOATING
`L./
`f
`104
`104
`
`
`
`
`
`GENERAFOR
`VOLTAGE
`
`REGULATOR
`
`CILLATOR| 7
`
`3
`
`-1 TOUCH
`
`CIRCUIT
`
`301
`
`oe
`
`MICRO.
`”
`MICRO.
`ROAD e~lconTROLLER| "| CONTROLLER
`
`p
`
`Page 517 of 1714
`
`Page 517 of 1714
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`

`

`US 5,796,183 Cl
`
`i
`EX PARTE
`
`ISSUED UNDER 35 U.S.C. 307
`
`Matier enclosed in heavy brackets [ ] appeared in the
`patent, but has becn deleted and is no Jenger a part of the
`patent; matter printed hn italics indicates additions made
`to the patent.
`
`
`
`AS A RESULT OF RE
`
`BETERMINED THAT:
`
`AMINATION, If HAS BEEN
`
`, £8 and 32 are determinedto be patentable as
`
`ae AMINATION CERTIBICATE
` THE PATENT IS HI TREBY AMENDED AS
`
`
`
`INDHCAI
`ED BELOW.
`
`2
`detecto circuit beingresponsive to signals from said
`
`oscillator vie said microcentrolier aud [he] a presence
`
`
`of an operator’s body capacitanceto ground coupled to
`said first and second tonch terminals‘when proximal or
`touched by fan] ¢keoperator to provide a control output
`signal for actuation ofthe controlied £keypaddevice, said
`detectorcircuit bemy configured to wenerate s:
`sooutrel
`
`
`
`utput signal when fan] te operator is proximal or
`h
`
`couches said second touch terminal after the operatoris
`roximmal or touches said first touch terminal.
`"S
`
`28. The capacitive responsive electronic switching circuit
`as defined in claim 27, whereinsaid detector circuit generates
`said control signal osaly whenkea] the operatoris proximal or
`touches said sccond touch terminal within a prodeterrained
`time period afterthe operatoriss proximal or touches said first
`
`
`touch terminal.
`
`Claims 18, 27
`
`
`32. The capa
`e resporisive electronic switching circuit
`amended.
`
`as definedin claim 27 and further inchiding an indicator for
`
`New claims 33-39 are added and deterrnined
`indicating whensaid detector circuit determines that [an] rhe
`patentable.
`operator is§ proximal or touches said first iiachterminal,
`switche.
`
`Ive responsive elec
`ie circuit
`Claims 1-17, 19-26 and 29-31 were not reexamined.
`
`
`
`riher comprising wherein said detec-
`
`tor
`cuit
`
`
`
`compares the sensed body capacitance change
`i$. A capacitive responsive electronic switching
`circuit
`
`caused by the body capacitance decreasing an input touch
`comprising:
`
`
`
`an oscillator providing a periodic output signal having a
`terminal signal on the detector to ground when proximate to
`
`level ta
`predefined frem:yency
`the input touch terminalto a secondthreshald
`ener-
`ate the control output signal.
`amicrocontroiler using theperiodic eutput signal fromthe
`oscillator the microcontrollersellectively providing sig-
`34, The capacitive re:sponsive electronic switching circuit
`
`as defined in claim 18further comprising wherein said detec-
`
`nai ouipulfrequencies to a plurality ofsmall
`sized
`i
`
`lor circuil compares the sensed body capacitance change
`touch terminals ofa keypad;
`
`fa} the plurality of smad/ sized input touchterminals defin-
`caused brythe body capacitance decreasing an input touch
`
`ground when
`terminal signal amplitude on the detector to
`ing adjacent areas ona dielectric substrate for an opera-
`
`
`d threshold
`proximate to the input touch terminal to a sec
`tor to provide jnputs by proximity and touch; and
`level to generate the control output signal.
`a detector circuit coupled to said oscillator for receiving
`
`said periodic outpul signal
`from said osciator, and
`responsiveeielectronic switching circuit
`3.S. The capacitive
`x = S=RQ, Po a8 & = 7
`bo es%3
`gay Ree&2s
`a 5:al
`2
`coupled ta said input touchterminals, said detector cir-
`oS
`;&
`Ss
`‘Ss
`
` 3301
`cuit boing responsive to signals fromsaid «
`ator via
`mrovideininput ‘hecontrol outputi signalisprevented
`
`
`
`2 of
`said microcantroiler and fthe] a presenceofan opera-
`tor’s body capacitance to ground coupled fo suid touch
`
`38. The capacitive responsive elecironic switching circuit
`40
`
`f
`claim 27 andfurther including an indicatorfor
`terminals when proximal or touchedby [an] fe operator
`to provide a control ontput signal,
`indicating when said detector circuit determines that the
`
`
`operator is proximal or touches said second touch terminal.
`wherei