Atmel Corporation

United States of America

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[Owner] Atmel Corporation 954
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Date
2025 July 1
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IPC Class
G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means 70
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means 67
G05F 1/10 - Regulating voltage or current 29
G06F 13/00 - Interconnection of, or transfer of information or other signals between, memories, input/output devices or central processing units 29
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NICE Class
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments 39
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design 12
16 - Paper, cardboard and goods made from these materials 4
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services 4
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1.

BASE ASSEMBLIES FOR KNOB ON DISPLAY DEVICES AND RELATED SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES

      
Application Number 19092713
Status Pending
Filing Date 2025-03-27
First Publication Date 2025-07-10
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Hinson, Nigel

Abstract

Knob on display (KoD) devices and related systems, methods, and devices are disclosed. A KoD device includes at least one electrode including an electrically conductive material. The KoD device also includes a base assembly configured to be positioned between a touch screen of a touch screen device and the at least one electrode. The at least one electrode is configured to be positioned in engagement proximity to a touch sensor of the touch screen device through the base assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 1/16 - Constructional details or arrangements
  • G05G 9/047 - Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
  • G06F 3/0354 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
  • G06F 3/0362 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of 1D translations or rotations of an operating part of the device, e.g. scroll wheels, sliders, knobs, rollers or belts
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

2.

ATTINY

      
Application Number 019075802
Status Registered
Filing Date 2024-09-06
Registration Date 2025-01-18
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
NICE Classes  ? 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments

Goods & Services

Computer hardware; semiconductors; integrated circuits; microcontrollers; microcontroller units comprised of semiconductor chips, microchips, integrated circuits, computer memories, electronic memories, data processing apparatus, and electronic and electrical control apparatus.

3.

ATTINY

      
Serial Number 98727327
Status Registered
Filing Date 2024-08-30
Registration Date 2025-05-13
Owner ATMEL CORPORATION ()
NICE Classes  ? 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments

Goods & Services

COMPUTER HARDWARE; SEMICONDUCTORS; INTEGRATED CIRCUITS; MICROCONTROLLERS; MICROCONTROLLER UNITS COMPRISED OF SEMICONDUCTOR CHIPS, MICROCHIPS, INTEGRATED CIRCUITS, COMPUTER MEMORIES, ELECTRONIC MEMORIES, DATA PROCESSING APPARATUS, AND ELECTRONIC AND ELECTRICAL CONTROL APPARATUS

4.

AVRFREAKS

      
Serial Number 98722593
Status Registered
Filing Date 2024-08-28
Registration Date 2025-05-13
Owner ATMEL CORPORATION ()
NICE Classes  ? 45 - Legal and security services; personal services for individuals.

Goods & Services

ONLINE SOCIAL NETWORKING SERVICES

5.

Knob on display

      
Application Number 18168468
Grant Number 12189438
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-02-13
First Publication Date 2023-06-22
Grant Date 2025-01-07
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Hinson, Nigel
  • Jones, Gareth Michael

Abstract

One or more examples relate to a knob-on-display. An apparatus of such a knob-on-display includes a touch surface, a dome switch pad, a dome switch, a rotation electrode pad, and an electrically conductive structure. The touch surface may include an electrically conductive material, the touch surface movable to a released position and to a depressed position. The dome switch may include an electrically conductive material. The dome switch may be physically mounted to and electrically connected to the dome switch pad. The rotation electrode pad may be in engagement proximity to a touch sensor of a touch screen device in both the released position and the depressed position. The electrically conductive structure may be physically and electrically connected to the dome switch pad and the rotation electrode pad, the electrically conductive structure defining a continuous electrically conductive path from the rotation electrode pad, through the dome switch, to the electrically conductive material of the touch surface in both the released position and the depressed position.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 1/16 - Constructional details or arrangements
  • G05G 9/047 - Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
  • G06F 3/0354 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
  • G06F 3/0362 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of 1D translations or rotations of an operating part of the device, e.g. scroll wheels, sliders, knobs, rollers or belts
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

6.

ATMEL

      
Serial Number 97492181
Status Registered
Filing Date 2022-07-07
Registration Date 2023-09-26
Owner Atmel Corporation ()
NICE Classes  ? 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments

Goods & Services

Semiconductors; Semiconductor chips; Computer chips; Integrated circuits; Electronic circuits; Electronic integrated circuit chips; Microprocessors; Microcontrollers; Integrated Circuit Modules; Circuit Boards; Touch Electrical Controllers; Network and communication microcontrollers; Wireless network and communication microcontrollers; integrated circuits for use in security applications; integrated circuits with encryption, security keys and security tokens for use in authentication between devices and host; integrated circuits for use in hardware authentication; Custom integrated circuits, namely, application-specific integrated circuits; application-specific integrated circuits used for aerospace, aviation, automotive, audio, communication, computer, consumer, displays, energy, industrial, LCD, lighting, military, mobile phone, power, security, touchscreen, wireless, and video applications; Computer hardware, downloadable software and firmware for use in evaluating, testing, designing, developing, programming, integrating, operating and controlling semiconductors, microcontrollers, integrated circuits, proximity and touch sensors, and proximity and touch sensor controls; Integrated circuit development kits, namely, computer hardware, downloadable software and firmware for evaluation, simulation, demonstration, application development, and testing of semiconductors, microcontrollers, integrated circuits, proximity and touch sensors, and proximity and touch sensor controls; Downloadable computer software platforms for use in evaluating, testing, designing, developing, demonstrating, programming, integrating, operating and controlling semiconductors, microcontrollers, integrated circuits, proximity and touch sensors, and proximity and touch sensor controls; Downloadable electronic publications in the nature of data sheets, schematics, application notes, white papers, brochures, catalogues, brochures, flyers, user guides, training manuals, release notes, and installation manuals in the fields of semiconductors, microcontrollers, integrated circuits, touch controllers, proximity and touch sensors, wireless solutions, automotive solutions, smart energy, proximity and touch sensor controls, computer software and firmware, computer chips, electronic memories, and radio frequency components; Computer memories; Electronic memories; Memory components, namely, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory computer chips, and erasable programmable read only memory computer chips; Semiconductor disc memories and computer memory units; Electric Sensors; Touch and proximity electric sensors; Capacitive touch and proximity electric sensors; Film-based touch and proximity electric sensors; Film-based touch and proximity electric sensors for further manufacturing use; Touchscreen electric sensors; Touch and proximity sensor controls and components thereof, namely, electronic devices which detect the presence of occupants and control the lighting system accordingly; Touchscreen electrical controllers; Electric sensors, namely, touch and proximity sensors for further manufacturing use; Microcontrollers, integrated circuits, and network electric controllers for use in automotive applications; high performance microcontrollers; microcontrollers for use in automotive applications, namely, automotive infotainment, human-machine interface, connectivity, car access, body and convenience, namely, door, window, sunroof, steering column, and climate applications; Integrated circuits for use in automotive under-hood applications, namely, electronic gear shift, dual clutch, start-stop systems, electronic power steering, pump systems, blowers, heaters, actuators, and stability control; Transceivers; Radio-frequency identification (RFID) computer chips; Radio frequency devices, namely, transceivers, receivers, transmitters, electrical relays, electrical controllers and antennas

7.

TOUCH SENSOR MUTUAL CHARGE CANCELLATION AND RELATED SYSTEMS, METHODS AND APPARATUSES

      
Application Number US2021072399
Publication Number 2022/109533
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-11-15
Publication Date 2022-05-27
Owner ATMEL CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Collins, Richard P.
  • Brunet, Samuel Daniel
  • Heslop, Paul

Abstract

A process includes receiving an associated input signal via a receiver electrode of a sensor array, the associated input signal indicative of an associated mutual capacitance of the receiver electrode; adding a balancing signal to the associated input signal to generate a balanced input signal at least partially responsive to a number of sensor nodes at the receiver electrode; generating a voltage signal indicative of the associated mutual capacitance of the receiver electrode at least partially responsive to a balanced input signal; and generating a digital value representative of the voltage signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

8.

Touch sensor mutual charge cancellation and related systems, methods and apparatuses

      
Application Number 17454857
Grant Number 11675462
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-11-15
First Publication Date 2022-05-19
Grant Date 2023-06-13
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Collins, Richard P.
  • Brunet, Samuel Daniel
  • Heslop, Paul

Abstract

A process includes receiving an associated input signal via a receiver electrode of a sensor array, the associated input signal indicative of an associated mutual capacitance of the receiver electrode; adding a balancing signal to the associated input signal to generate a balanced input signal at least partially responsive to a number of sensor nodes at the receiver electrode; generating a voltage signal indicative of the associated mutual capacitance of the receiver electrode at least partially responsive to a balanced input signal; and generating a digital value representative of the voltage signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G01R 27/26 - Measuring inductance or capacitanceMeasuring quality factor, e.g. by using the resonance methodMeasuring loss factorMeasuring dielectric constants
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

9.

System bus transaction queue reallocation

      
Application Number 17644130
Grant Number 12135658
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-12-14
First Publication Date 2022-04-07
Grant Date 2024-11-05
Owner ATMEL CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Lunadier, Franck
  • Debout, Vincent

Abstract

A bus architecture is disclosed that provides for transaction queue reallocation on the modules communicating using the bus. A module can implement a transaction request queue by virtue of digital electronic circuitry, e.g., hardware or software or a combination of both. Some bus clogging issues that affect conventional systems can be circumvented by combining an out of order system bus protocol that uses a transaction request replay mechanism. Modules can evict less urgent transactions from transaction request queues to make room to insert more urgent transactions. Master modules can dynamically update a quality of service (QoS) value for a transaction while the transaction is still pending.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 13/16 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to memory bus
  • G06F 13/14 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer
  • G06F 13/36 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to common bus or bus system
  • G06F 13/364 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to common bus or bus system with centralised access control using independent requests or grants, e.g. using separated request and grant lines
  • G06F 13/42 - Bus transfer protocol, e.g. handshakeSynchronisation

10.

Determining spectrally shaped waveforms for touch sensing applications and related methods and apparatuses

      
Application Number 17644737
Grant Number 12169610
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-12-16
First Publication Date 2022-04-07
Grant Date 2024-12-17
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Vinje, Anders

Abstract

A method for determining a spectrally shaped waveform, and related apparatus, are described. In one or more example, such a spectrally shaped waveform may be for touch sensing. An example of such a method includes: receiving an indication of allowable electromagnetic emissions; choosing radio frequency subcarriers responsive to the indication of allowable electromagnetic emissions; and generating and storing a spectrally shaped time domain digital waveform responsive to the chosen radio frequency subcarriers.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

11.

Techniques for routing signals using inactive sensor regions of touch sensors and related systems and devices

      
Application Number 16948270
Grant Number 11301080
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-09-10
First Publication Date 2021-04-01
Grant Date 2022-04-12
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Beuker, Rob Ann
  • Cheng, Mark
  • Tsai, Yona
  • Brunet, Samuel Daniel

Abstract

A sensor region of a touch sensor may include active and inactive sensor regions. The inactive sensor regions may include one or more routing connectors electrically connected to the active sensor regions, electrically connected to connection forming elements, and/or electrically connected to tracking lines. System and touch displays may include touch sensors with such sensor regions.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

12.

TECHNIQUES FOR ROUTING SIGNALS USING INACTIVE SENSOR REGIONS OF TOUCH SENSORS AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND DEVICES

      
Application Number US2020070560
Publication Number 2021/062433
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-09-21
Publication Date 2021-04-01
Owner ATMEL CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Beuker, Rob Ann
  • Cheng, Mark
  • Tsai, Yona
  • Brunet, Samuel Daniel

Abstract

A sensor region of a touch sensor may include active and inactive sensor regions. The inactive sensor regions may include one or more routing connectors electrically connected to the active sensor regions, electrically connected to connection forming elements, and/or electrically connected to tracking lines. System systems and touch displays may include touch sensors with such sensor regions.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

13.

Touch sensor signal integration

      
Application Number 16949218
Grant Number 11474641
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-10-20
First Publication Date 2021-03-25
Grant Date 2022-10-18
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Reynolds, Grahame
  • Syed, Hammad

Abstract

In certain embodiments, a method includes performing a first positive integration by sensing a first rising edge of a charging signal of a touch sensor during a first synchronization period and performing a first negative integration by sensing a first falling edge of the charging signal during a second synchronization period. The method also includes toggling the charging signal, resulting in a second rising edge of the charging signal during the second synchronization period. The method further includes performing a second negative integration by sensing a second falling edge of the charging signal during a third synchronization period and performing a second positive integration by sensing a third rising edge of the charging signal during a fourth synchronization period. The first integrations are associated with a first sample measurement and the second integrations are associated with a second sample measurement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G02F 1/1333 - Constructional arrangements
  • G02F 1/1343 - Electrodes

14.

KNOB ON DISPLAY DEVICES AND RELATED SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES

      
Application Number US2020070319
Publication Number 2021/030828
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-07-28
Publication Date 2021-02-18
Owner ATMEL CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Hinson, Nigel
  • Jones, Gareth Michael

Abstract

Knob on display (KoD) devices and related systems, methods, and devices are disclosed. A KoD device includes a touch surface including a conductive material. The touch surface is configured to be positioned in a released position and in a depressed position. The touch surface is configured to be positioned in the depressed position responsive to pressure applied to the touch surface. The KoD device also includes a push electrode pad configured to be positioned in engagement proximity to a touch sensor of a touch screen device in both the released position and the depressed position. The push electrode pad is electrically connected to the conductive material of the touch surface responsive to the depressed position and electrically isolated from the conductive material of the touch surface in the released position.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/0362 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of 1D translations or rotations of an operating part of the device, e.g. scroll wheels, sliders, knobs, rollers or belts
  • G06F 1/16 - Constructional details or arrangements
  • G06F 3/039 - Accessories therefor, e.g. mouse pads
  • H01H 19/11 - Movable partsContacts mounted thereon with indexing means
  • H01H 25/06 - Operating part movable both angularly and rectilinearly, the rectilinear movement being along the axis of angular movement
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G05G 1/10 - Details, e.g. of discs, knobs, wheels or handles
  • G05G 1/02 - Controlling members for hand-actuation by linear movement, e.g. push buttons
  • G05G 1/08 - Controlling members for hand-actuation by rotary movement, e.g. hand wheels

15.

Knob on display devices and related systems, methods, and devices

      
Application Number 16947326
Grant Number 11579665
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-07-28
First Publication Date 2021-02-18
Grant Date 2023-02-14
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Hinson, Nigel
  • Jones, Gareth Michael

Abstract

Knob on display (KoD) devices and related systems, methods, and devices are disclosed. A KoD device includes a touch surface including a conductive material. The touch surface is configured to be positioned in a released position and in a depressed position. The touch surface is configured to be positioned in the depressed position responsive to pressure applied to the touch surface. The KoD device also includes a push electrode pad configured to be positioned in engagement proximity to a touch sensor of a touch screen device in both the released position and the depressed position. The push electrode pad is electrically connected to the conductive material of the touch surface responsive to the depressed position and electrically isolated from the conductive material of the touch surface in the released position.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 1/16 - Constructional details or arrangements
  • G05G 9/047 - Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
  • G06F 3/0354 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
  • G06F 3/0362 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of 1D translations or rotations of an operating part of the device, e.g. scroll wheels, sliders, knobs, rollers or belts
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

16.

BASE ASSEMBLIES FOR KNOB ON DISPLAY DEVICES AND RELATED SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES

      
Application Number US2020070321
Publication Number 2021/030829
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-07-28
Publication Date 2021-02-18
Owner ATMEL CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Hinson, Nigel

Abstract

Knob on display (KoD) devices and related systems, methods, and devices are disclosed. A KoD device includes at least one electrode including an electrically conductive material. The KoD device also includes a base assembly configured to be positioned between a touch screen of a touch screen device and the at least one electrode. The at least one electrode is configured to be positioned in engagement proximity to a touch sensor of the touch screen device through the base assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/0362 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of 1D translations or rotations of an operating part of the device, e.g. scroll wheels, sliders, knobs, rollers or belts
  • G06F 1/16 - Constructional details or arrangements
  • G06F 3/039 - Accessories therefor, e.g. mouse pads
  • H01H 19/11 - Movable partsContacts mounted thereon with indexing means
  • H01H 25/06 - Operating part movable both angularly and rectilinearly, the rectilinear movement being along the axis of angular movement
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G05G 1/10 - Details, e.g. of discs, knobs, wheels or handles

17.

TECHNIQUES FOR WIDEBAND TOUCH SENSING ANDRELATED SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES

      
Application Number US2020070198
Publication Number 2021/026547
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-06-26
Publication Date 2021-02-11
Owner ATMEL CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Vinje, Anders

Abstract

A touch sensing method is described as well as related methods and systems. In some embodiments of the touch sensing method, energy of a drive signal is allocated among frequencies of RF subcarriers such that the allocated energy meets electromagnetic emissions requirements for the application of a touch sensing system implementing the touch sensing method. Also described are methods of determining a spectrally shaped time domain digital waveform for use in generating a spectrally shaped drive signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

18.

Techniques for wideband touch sensing and related systems, methods and devices

      
Application Number 16946567
Grant Number 11204666
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-06-26
First Publication Date 2021-02-04
Grant Date 2021-12-21
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Vinje, Anders

Abstract

A touch sensing method is described as well as related methods and systems. In some embodiments of the touch sensing method, energy of a drive signal is allocated among frequencies of RF subcarriers such that the allocated energy meets electromagnetic emissions requirements for the application of a touch sensing system implementing the touch sensing method. Also described are methods of determining a spectrally shaped time domain digital waveform for use in generating a spectrally shaped drive signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

19.

Low cost cryptographic accelerator

      
Application Number 16948480
Grant Number 11841981
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-09-21
First Publication Date 2021-01-07
Grant Date 2023-12-12
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pedersen, Frode Milch
  • Olsson, Martin
  • Aas, Arne

Abstract

A low-cost cryptographic accelerator is disclosed that accelerates inner loops of a cryptographic process. The cryptographic accelerator performs operations on cryptographic data provided by a central processing unit (CPU) running a software cryptographic process to create a combined hardware and software cryptographic process, resulting in a lower cost secure communication solution than software-only or hardware-only cryptographic processes. In an embodiment, a cryptographic accelerator comprises: an interface configured to receive cryptographic data, the cryptographic data indicating a particular cryptographic process to be performed on the cryptographic data; transformation logic configured to perform a cryptographic operation on the cryptographic data according to the cryptographic process, the transformation logic including logic for performing cryptographic operations for a plurality of different cryptographic processes; and a state register configured for storing a result of the cryptographic operation.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 9/06 - Arrangements for secret or secure communicationsNetwork security protocols the encryption apparatus using shift registers or memories for blockwise coding, e.g. D.E.S. systems
  • G06F 21/72 - Protecting specific internal or peripheral components, in which the protection of a component leads to protection of the entire computer to assure secure computing or processing of information in cryptographic circuits

20.

Excitation voltages for touch sensors

      
Application Number 16932901
Grant Number 11494037
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-07-20
First Publication Date 2020-11-05
Grant Date 2022-11-08
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pedersen, Trond Jarle
  • Dubery, John Stanley

Abstract

A method including applying a first excitation voltage to an electrode of a touch sensor which charges a capacitive node associated with the electrode from a first voltage level to a second voltage level that is greater than the first voltage level. A first measurement measures a charge to change from the first voltage level to the second voltage level. A second excitation voltage is applied to the electrode which charges the capacitive node from the second voltage level to a third voltage level that is greater than the second voltage level. The capacitive node is discharged from the third voltage level to a fourth voltage level that is less than the second voltage level. A second measurement measures a charge to change from the third voltage level to the fourth voltage level. A measured charge signal is generated based on the first measurement and the second measurement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

21.

Techniques for identifying user interface elements and systems and devices using the same

      
Application Number 16752471
Grant Number 11809626
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-01-24
First Publication Date 2020-05-21
Grant Date 2023-11-07
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Liddell, William
  • Clements, Paul
  • Souche, Thomas

Abstract

The embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to techniques for identifying elements in a user interface (UI), and more particularly, techniques for determining UI elements selected on a contact-sensitive user interface and using those techniques to provide one or more haptic responses.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • G06F 9/451 - Execution arrangements for user interfaces
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/0488 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures
  • G06F 40/221 - Parsing markup language streams

22.

PICOPOWER

      
Serial Number 88820601
Status Registered
Filing Date 2020-03-04
Registration Date 2022-10-11
Owner Atmel Corporation ()
NICE Classes  ? 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments

Goods & Services

Semiconductor integrated circuits, namely, microcontroller chips; Circuit boards having at least one microcontroller chip; Tools, namely, kits for demonstrating, evaluating, and simulating microcontrollers comprising downloadable software for demonstrating, evaluating and simulating microcontrollers, circuit boards with or without at least one chip incorporated or embedded therein, and downloadable computer programs for demonstrating, evaluating, and simulating microcontrollers

23.

A SEGMENTED CAPACITIVE SENSOR, AND RELATED SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES

      
Application Number US2019039901
Publication Number 2020/006463
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-06-28
Publication Date 2020-01-02
Owner ATMEL CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Dubery, John
  • Brunet, Samuel Daniel

Abstract

Disclosed are segmented sensors and related systems, methods, and devices. In one embodiment, a capacitive sensor includes a first gird of sensor lines, a second grid of sensor lines, and an isolating region defined between the first grid of sensor lines and the second grid of sensor lines. Also disclosed are touch controllers configured for operable coupling to, and detecting touches at, a segmented sensor, and related systems, methods, and devices. In one embodiment, connectors of a touch controllers are configured for operable coupling to sensing lines from different segments of a segmented sensor and touch controllers are configured to detect touches at the different segments.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

24.

Segmented capacitive sensor, and related systems, methods and devices

      
Application Number 16216412
Grant Number 10895939
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-12-11
First Publication Date 2020-01-02
Grant Date 2021-01-19
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Dubery, John
  • Brunet, Samuel Daniel

Abstract

Disclosed are segmented sensors and related systems, methods, and devices. In one embodiment, a capacitive sensor includes a first gird of sensor lines, a second grid of sensor lines, and an isolating region defined between the first grid of sensor lines and the second grid of sensor lines. Also disclosed are touch controllers configured for operable coupling to, and detecting touches at, a segmented sensor, and related systems, methods, and devices. In one embodiment, connectors of a touch controllers are configured for operable coupling to sensing lines from different segments of a segmented sensor and touch controllers are configured to detect touches at the different segments.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

25.

Touch sensor and associated control method for decreased capacitive loads

      
Application Number 16541473
Grant Number 10705651
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-08-15
First Publication Date 2019-12-05
Grant Date 2020-07-07
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Brunet, Samuel
  • Collins, Richard P.
  • Simmons, Martin J.
  • Church, Justin A.

Abstract

A device includes a controller coupled to a touch sensor. The touch sensor includes a first array of capacitive nodes substantially aligned with a second array of capacitive nodes in a mechanical stack. The controller is configured, when in a self-capacitive mode of operation, to send a first drive signal to a plurality of the electrodes of the first array, send a shield signal to at least a portion of the electrodes of the second array at the same time as the first drive signal is sent to the plurality of electrodes of the first array, and sense touch inputs based on signals received from the plurality of electrodes of the first array while the first drive signal is being sent to the plurality of electrodes of the first array and the shield signal is being sent to the at least a portion of the electrodes of the second array.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 3/047 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using sets of wires, e.g. crossed wires

26.

Touch sensor hand-configuration analysis

      
Application Number 16529286
Grant Number 10768745
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-08-01
First Publication Date 2019-11-21
Grant Date 2020-09-08
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Simmons, Martin J.
  • Myers, Thomas

Abstract

In certain embodiments, an apparatus includes controller circuitry and a touch sensor that includes first electrodes. The controller circuitry is configured to measure first capacitance values during a first time period, each first capacitance value associated with a respective first electrode. The controller circuitry is also configured to determine a first hand-usage value based at least on a distribution of the first capacitance values. The controller circuitry is also configured to estimate a hand-usage state based at least on the first hand-usage value. The hand-usage state indicates one of the following hand configurations: right-handed interaction with the touch sensor, left-handed interaction with the touch sensor, or two-handed interaction with the touch sensor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

27.

Applying a signal to a touch sensor

      
Application Number 16529466
Grant Number 10698534
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-08-01
First Publication Date 2019-11-21
Grant Date 2020-06-30
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Bye, David K.

Abstract

In one embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising logic is configured to, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations comprising measuring samples from a touch sensor. Each sample is measured by determining, based on a first pattern of polarities, a polarity of a charging signal to be applied to an electrode of the touch sensor, the first pattern of polarities based on a signal associated with a noise source; applying the charging signal to the electrode, the charging signal, as applied, having the polarity determined based on the first pattern of polarities; and measuring a received signal from the touch sensor, the received signal resulting, at least in part, from the charging signal applied to the electrode. The operations comprise determining whether a touch event has occurred at the electrode by analyzing the received signals from the samples.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

28.

FORCE SENSOR MOUNT AND RELATED HOUSINGS AND SYSTEMS THAT INCORPORATE THE SAME

      
Application Number IB2019050076
Publication Number 2019/135200
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-01-04
Publication Date 2019-07-11
Owner ATMEL TECHNOLOGIES U.K. LIMITED (United Kingdom)
Inventor
  • Hinson, Nigel
  • Clements, Paul

Abstract

Assemblies include a chassis having a first side configured to receive a force-sensitive surface, a support structure including first electrode portions, and resilient mounting elements attached to the chassis and to the support structure. The mounting elements include second electrode portions positioned adjacent to the first electrode portions. Force-sensitive systems include force sensors including portions of a support structure and portions of a mounting element that are adapted to relatively move responsive to one or more applied forces, and a controller configured to identify the one or more applied forces by determining movement between the support structure and the mounting element. Methods include detecting changes in capacitances of respective capacitors formed by first electrode portions on a support structure and second electrode portions defined by mounting elements coupling a chassis to the support structure. Force values and force locations are determined from the detected changes in capacitances.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

29.

Connecting electrodes to voltages

      
Application Number 15962529
Grant Number 10466851
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-04-25
First Publication Date 2019-04-25
Grant Date 2019-11-05
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pedersen, Trond Jarle
  • Fenheim, Torgeir
  • Herheim, Jan Rune
  • Schabel, Stefan Markus

Abstract

In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a first electrode, one or more processors, and one or more memory units coupled to the one or more processors. The one or more memory units collectively store logic that is configured to cause the one or more processors to control connections of the first electrode by connecting the first electrode to a first reference voltage, then connecting the first electrode to a second reference voltage lower than the first reference voltage, and then connecting the first electrode to a third reference voltage lower than the first reference voltage and the second reference voltage. The second reference voltage is coupled to a capacitor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 1/3234 - Power saving characterised by the action undertaken

30.

Microcontroller including power supply monitoring

      
Application Number 16161861
Grant Number 10656189
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-10-16
First Publication Date 2019-02-14
Grant Date 2020-05-19
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Menard, Patrice
  • Gourbilleau, Thierry
  • Kervaon, Thibault
  • Vix, Régis

Abstract

A microcontroller is operable to monitor power supply levels corresponding, respectively, to a first power supply (e.g., a main power supply) and a second power supply (e.g., a battery backup power supply). In one or more modes of operation, the same brownout detector in the microcontroller alternately monitors signals corresponding, respectively, to the first and second power supply levels.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
  • G01R 19/165 - Indicating that current or voltage is either above or below a predetermined value or within or outside a predetermined range of values
  • G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
  • G05B 19/042 - Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers using digital processors
  • G06F 1/28 - Supervision thereof, e.g. detecting power-supply failure by out of limits supervision

31.

Touch sensor compensation circuit

      
Application Number 16141362
Grant Number 10684733
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-09-25
First Publication Date 2019-01-31
Grant Date 2020-06-16
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pedersen, Trond Jarle
  • Prohaska, Armin
  • Fenheim, Torgeir
  • Kolb, Peter

Abstract

An apparatus includes an integrator circuit, a compensation circuit, and a sense circuit. The compensation circuit applies a positive charge and a negative charge to the integrator circuit during a first time period and a second time period respectively. The integrator circuit integrates a signal and the positive charge to produce a first sense signal. The signal is based on a charge at an electrode of a touch sensor. The integrator circuit integrates the signal and the negative charge to produce a second sense signal. The sense circuit detects a touch based on the first sense signal and the second sense signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact

32.

Peripheral interface circuit for serial memory

      
Application Number 16140486
Grant Number 10725950
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-09-24
First Publication Date 2019-01-24
Grant Date 2020-07-28
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Schumacher, Frédéric
  • Pean, Guillaume
  • Tiennot, Renaud

Abstract

A peripheral interface circuit and method is disclosed for dealing with round trip delay with serial memory. In some implementations, a finite state machine is configured to introduce a delay state prior to a read data state to absorb round trip delay associated with a memory read operation. A clock module is coupled to the finite state machine and configured to delay start of a pad return clock for the read operation until completion of the delay state. A first synchronous logic is coupled to receive the pad return clock and is configured to sample and hold data from a data bus during the read data state of the memory read operation based on the pad return clock. A second synchronous logic is coupled to receive a system clock and is configured to sample the held data based on the system clock.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 13/362 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to common bus or bus system with centralised access control
  • G06F 13/16 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to memory bus
  • G06F 13/42 - Bus transfer protocol, e.g. handshakeSynchronisation

33.

Power mode configuration for touch sensors

      
Application Number 16112520
Grant Number 10338666
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-08-24
First Publication Date 2018-12-20
Grant Date 2019-07-02
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Brillant, Gregory
  • Pedersen, Trond Jarle

Abstract

In one embodiment, a system includes a touch sensor, measurement circuits, and a monitoring circuit. The monitoring circuit is coupled to each measurement circuit. The monitoring circuit is configured to perform operations in a first power mode. The operations include receiving signals from the measurement circuits and generating an output signal that is proportional to a sum of the signals received from the measurement circuits. A value of the generated output signal indicates whether activity has occurred on the touch sensor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 1/3234 - Power saving characterised by the action undertaken
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 1/3215 - Monitoring of peripheral devices
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

34.

Techniques for identifying user interface elements and systems and devices using the same

      
Application Number 15983750
Grant Number 11157083
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-05-18
First Publication Date 2018-11-22
Grant Date 2021-10-26
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Liddell, William
  • Clements, Paul
  • Souche, Thomas

Abstract

The embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to techniques for identifying elements in a user interface (UI), and more particularly, techniques for determining UI elements selected on a contact-sensitive user interface and using those techniques to provide one or more haptic responses.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • G06F 9/451 - Execution arrangements for user interfaces
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/0488 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures
  • G06F 40/221 - Parsing markup language streams

35.

TECHNIQUES FOR IDENTIFYING USER INTERFACE ELEMENTS AND SYSTEMS AND DEVICES USING THE SAME

      
Application Number IB2018053535
Publication Number 2018/211478
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-05-18
Publication Date 2018-11-22
Owner ATMEL TECHNOLOGIES U.K. LIMITED (United Kingdom)
Inventor
  • Liddell, William
  • Clements, Paul
  • Souche, Thomas

Abstract

The embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to techniques for identifying elements in a user interface (UI), and more particularly, techniques for determining UI elements selected on a contact-sensitive user interface and using those techniques to provide one or more haptic responses.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/0488 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures
  • G06F 9/451 - Execution arrangements for user interfaces

36.

Touch sensor and associated control method for decreased capacitive loads

      
Application Number 16025354
Grant Number 10437382
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-07-02
First Publication Date 2018-10-25
Grant Date 2019-10-08
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Brunet, Samuel
  • Collins, Richard P.
  • Simmons, Martin J.
  • Church, Justin A.

Abstract

A device includes a controller coupled to a touch sensor. The touch sensor includes a first array of capacitive nodes substantially aligned with a second array of capacitive nodes in a mechanical stack. The controller is configured, when in a self-capacitive mode of operation, to send a first drive signal to a plurality of the electrodes of the first array, send a shield signal to at least a portion of the electrodes of the second array at the same time as the first drive signal is sent to the plurality of electrodes of the first array, and sense touch inputs based on signals received from the plurality of electrodes of the first array while the first drive signal is being sent to the plurality of electrodes of the first array and the shield signal is being sent to the at least a portion of the electrodes of the second array.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 3/047 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using sets of wires, e.g. crossed wires

37.

TOUCH SENSOR WITH FORCE SENSOR RESPONSE NORMALIZATION, AND RELATED METHOD AND APPARATUS

      
Application Number IB2018000282
Publication Number 2018/158639
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-03-02
Publication Date 2018-09-07
Owner ATMEL CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Carley, Carl
  • Clements, Paul
  • Attrill, Karl
  • Bell, Thomas, Matthew

Abstract

In one embodiment, a touch screen device includes a controller, a force sensing layer, a cushion layer, and a reference layer. The controller includes a processor to determine a distance between the force sensing layer and the reference layer. The cushion layer is between the force sensing layer and the reference layer. The cushion layer may include a plurality of holes at selected locations devoid of material of which the cushion layer is made. The reference layer may include a plurality of raised areas at selected locations.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

38.

Touch detection

      
Application Number 15966169
Grant Number 10180763
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-04-30
First Publication Date 2018-09-06
Grant Date 2019-01-15
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Saether, Terje
  • Jonsson, Carl Olof Fredrik

Abstract

A method includes driving, by a first driver circuit, a current through an electrode and detecting, by a sensing system, a touch based on a change in capacitance at the electrode. The first driver circuit includes a first operational transconductance amplifier and a first current mirror. A second current mirror is coupled to the sensing system. A first switch is coupled to the first current mirror. A second switch is coupled to the first current mirror and the first operational transconductance amplifier. A third switch is coupled to the first operational transconductance amplifier and the second current mirror. A fourth switch is coupled to the second current mirror. A fifth switch is coupled to the first operational transconductance amplifier. A sixth switch is coupled to the first operational transconductance amplifier. A seventh switch is coupled to the first operational transconductance amplifier, the first current mirror, and the second current mirror.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

39.

Touch sensor with force sensor response normalization, and related method and apparatus

      
Application Number 15908182
Grant Number 10649595
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-02-28
First Publication Date 2018-09-06
Grant Date 2020-05-12
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Carley, Carl
  • Clements, Paul
  • Attrill, Karl
  • Bell, Thomas Matthew

Abstract

In one embodiment, a touch screen device includes a controller, a force sensing layer, a cushion layer, and a reference layer. The controller includes a processor to determine a distance between the force sensing layer and the reference layer. The cushion layer is between the force sensing layer and the reference layer. The cushion layer may include a plurality of holes at selected locations devoid of material of which the cushion layer is made. The reference layer may include a plurality of raised areas at selected locations.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

40.

Input/output parameter selection

      
Application Number 15941954
Grant Number 10387646
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-03-30
First Publication Date 2018-08-09
Grant Date 2019-08-20
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Samat, Pierre
  • Vergnes, Alain
  • Douguet, Michel

Abstract

A device comprises a detector configured to detect an event, and a selector coupled to the detector and configured to generate a signal in response to a detection of an event by the detector. The signal is operable to select a set of input/output (I/O) parameters from among first and second stored sets of parameters. The device also includes a configuration module coupled to the selector. The configuration module is configured to output the selected set of I/O parameters.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 11/30 - Monitoring
  • G06F 13/40 - Bus structure
  • G06F 21/55 - Detecting local intrusion or implementing counter-measures
  • G06F 21/60 - Protecting data
  • G06F 21/85 - Protecting input, output or interconnection devices interconnection devices, e.g. bus-connected or in-line devices

41.

Applying a signal to a touch sensor

      
Application Number 15419745
Grant Number 10423276
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-01-30
First Publication Date 2018-08-02
Grant Date 2019-09-24
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Bye, David K.

Abstract

In one embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising logic is configured to, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations comprising measuring samples from a touch sensor. Each sample is measured by determining, based on a first pattern of polarities, a polarity of a charging signal to be applied to an electrode of the touch sensor, the first pattern of polarities based on a signal associated with a noise source; applying the charging signal to the electrode, the charging signal, as applied, having the polarity determined based on the first pattern of polarities; and measuring a received signal from the touch sensor, the received signal resulting, at least in part, from the charging signal applied to the electrode. The operations comprise determining whether a touch event has occurred at the electrode by analyzing the received signals from the samples.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

42.

Autonomous process control peripheral

      
Application Number 15793924
Grant Number 10942492
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-25
First Publication Date 2018-07-05
Grant Date 2021-03-09
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Lassen, Jacob Lunn

Abstract

An updated process parameter to an autonomous process control peripheral is autonomously obtained when made available by a process monitor peripheral, such as an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The input can be obtained in response to a system event, such as a completed ADC conversion. The autonomous process control peripheral can compute an updated control variable each time the process variable is updated. When the updated control variable is calculated by the autonomous process control peripheral, the updated control variable is autonomously transferred or otherwise made available (e.g., through a register) by the autonomous process control peripheral to a process actuate peripheral. The process actuate peripheral uses the updated control variable to adjust the process being controlled.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05B 11/42 - Automatic controllers electric with provision for obtaining particular characteristics, e.g. proportional, integral, differential for obtaining a characteristic which is both proportional and time-dependent, e.g. P. I., P. I. D.
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
  • G05B 19/18 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form

43.

Automatic transmission of dummy bits in bus master

      
Application Number 15793911
Grant Number 10489319
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-25
First Publication Date 2018-06-21
Grant Date 2019-11-26
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Berntsen, Eivind

Abstract

Various embodiments are disclosed for automatic transmission of dummy bits in a serial bus master. The disclosed embodiments allow a single DMA descriptor to be fetched from memory for the reception of a specified amount of data. Dummy bits can be located or generated in the serial bus master either as a user configurable value or a default value. Logic in the serial bus master initiates a data transfer by writing a count value representing an amount of data to be received to a count register in the serial bus master. The single DMA descriptor is then configured to handle the internal transfer of bits received by the serial bus master from a serial bus slave and the DMA controller is enabled. When data transfer is initiated, the serial bus master starts sending dummy bits to the serial bus slave and receiving data bits from the serial bus slave.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 13/28 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to input/output bus using burst mode transfer, e.g. direct memory access, cycle steal
  • G06F 13/42 - Bus transfer protocol, e.g. handshakeSynchronisation
  • G06F 12/06 - Addressing a physical block of locations, e.g. base addressing, module addressing, address space extension, memory dedication

44.

Suspension of touch sensor scan based on an expected interference

      
Application Number 15888501
Grant Number 10162464
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-02-05
First Publication Date 2018-06-21
Grant Date 2018-12-25
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Brunet, Samuel
  • Reynolds, Grahame
  • Syed, Hammad

Abstract

In certain embodiments, a touch sensor controller estimates an area of a display screen that a display controller will update at a first time and estimates an area of a touch sensor that the touch sensor controller is expected to scan at the first time. The touch sensor controller further identifies an expected interference based on a comparison between the update of the estimated area of the display screen by the display controller at the first time and the scan of the estimated area of the touch sensor by the touch sensor controller at the first time. Based on the expected interference, the touch sensor controller suspends, for a first time period, the scan of the estimated area of the touch sensor for touch events based on the expected interference. The touch sensor controller resumes the scan after the first time period.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

45.

Serial device with configuration mode for changing device behavior

      
Application Number 15846122
Grant Number 10387361
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-12-18
First Publication Date 2018-06-21
Grant Date 2019-08-20
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Harfert, Daniel
  • De Caro, Richard V.

Abstract

Systems, methods, circuits, devices and computer-readable mediums for configuring serial devices are disclosed. In some implementations, a device comprises: an input for receiving first and second requests from a serial bus; a decoder coupled to the input and configured to determine if either of the first and second requests is a configuration mode request; a controller coupled to the decoder and configured to: in response to a determination that the first request is a configuration mode request, program a configuration block with configuration data obtained from the serial bus and alter a device behavior according to the configuration data; and in response to a determination that the second request is not a configuration mode request, perform one or more actions on the device according to the second request.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 9/4401 - Bootstrapping
  • G06F 13/42 - Bus transfer protocol, e.g. handshakeSynchronisation
  • G06F 13/16 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to memory bus
  • G06F 11/30 - Monitoring
  • G06F 11/32 - Monitoring with visual indication of the functioning of the machine

46.

Microcontroller with integrated interface enabling reading data randomly from serial flash memory

      
Application Number 15886359
Grant Number 10437516
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-02-01
First Publication Date 2018-06-07
Grant Date 2019-10-08
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Schumacher, Frédéric
  • Pean, Guillaume
  • Tiennot, Renaud

Abstract

A microcontroller includes a microprocessor, a serial flash memory interface, and input/output (I/O) terminals for coupling the serial flash memory interface to external serial flash memory. The microprocessor is operable to generate instruction frames that trigger respective commands to read data from specified addresses in the external serial flash memory. The serial flash memory interface receives and processes the instruction frames, obtains the data contained in the specified addresses in the external serial flash memory regardless of whether the specified addresses are sequential or non-sequential, and provides the data for use by the microprocessor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/06 - Digital input from, or digital output to, record carriers
  • G06F 12/02 - Addressing or allocationRelocation
  • G06F 13/00 - Interconnection of, or transfer of information or other signals between, memories, input/output devices or central processing units
  • G06F 13/16 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to memory bus

47.

TOUCH SENSOR SIGNAL INTEGRATION

      
Application Number US2017061909
Publication Number 2018/093980
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-11-16
Publication Date 2018-05-24
Owner ATMEL CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Reynolds, Grahame
  • Syed, Hammad

Abstract

In certain embodiments, a method includes performing a first positive integration by sensing a first rising edge of a charging signal of a touch sensor during a first synchronization period and performing a first negative integration by sensing a first falling edge of the charging signal during a second synchronization period. The method also includes toggling the charging signal, resulting in a second rising edge of the charging signal during the second synchronization period. The method further includes performing a second negative integration by sensing a second falling edge of the charging signal during a third synchronization period and performing a second positive integration by sensing a third rising edge of the charging signal during a fourth synchronization period. The first integrations are associated with a first sample measurement and the second integrations are associated with a second sample measurement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

48.

Touch sensor signal integration

      
Application Number 15355383
Grant Number 10318050
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-11-18
First Publication Date 2018-05-24
Grant Date 2019-06-11
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Reynolds, Grahame
  • Syed, Hammad

Abstract

In certain embodiments, a method includes performing a first positive integration by sensing a first rising edge of a charging signal of a touch sensor during a first synchronization period, performing a first negative integration by sensing a first falling edge of the charging signal during a second synchronization period, and performing a first phase shift by skipping integration during a third synchronization period. The method further includes performing a second positive integration by sensing a second rising edge of the charging signal during a fourth synchronization period, performing a second negative integration by sensing a second falling edge of the charging signal during a fifth synchronization period, and performing a second phase shift by skipping integration during a sixth synchronization period. The first integrations are associated with a first sample measurement and the second integrations are associated with a second sample measurement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G02F 1/1333 - Constructional arrangements

49.

Touch sensor signal integration

      
Application Number 15355544
Grant Number 10809843
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-11-18
First Publication Date 2018-05-24
Grant Date 2020-10-20
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Reynolds, Grahame
  • Syed, Hammad

Abstract

In certain embodiments, a method includes performing a first positive integration by sensing a first rising edge of a charging signal of a touch sensor during a first synchronization period and performing a first negative integration by sensing a first falling edge of the charging signal during a second synchronization period. The method also includes toggling the charging signal, resulting in a second rising edge of the charging signal during the second synchronization period. The method further includes performing a second negative integration by sensing a second falling edge of the charging signal during a third synchronization period and performing a second positive integration by sensing a third rising edge of the charging signal during a fourth synchronization period. The first integrations are associated with a first sample measurement and the second integrations are associated with a second sample measurement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G02F 1/1333 - Constructional arrangements
  • G02F 1/1343 - Electrodes
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

50.

TOUCH SENSOR SIGNAL INTEGRATION

      
Application Number US2017061908
Publication Number 2018/093979
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-11-16
Publication Date 2018-05-24
Owner ATMEL CORPORTION (USA)
Inventor
  • Reynolds, Grahame
  • Syed, Hammad

Abstract

In certain embodiments, a method includes performing a first positive integration by sensing a first rising edge of a charging signal of a touch sensor during a first synchronization period, performing a first negative integration by sensing a first falling edge of the charging signal during a second synchronization period, and performing a first phase shift by skipping integration during a third synchronization period. The method further includes performing a second positive integration by sensing a second rising edge of the charging signal during a fourth synchronization period, performing a second negative integration by sensing a second falling edge of the charging signal during a fifth synchronization period, and performing a second phase shift by skipping integration during a sixth synchronization period. The first integrations are associated with a first sample measurement and the second integrations are associated with a second sample measurement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

51.

Low cost cryptographic accelerator

      
Application Number 15679134
Grant Number 10783279
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-08-16
First Publication Date 2018-03-29
Grant Date 2020-09-22
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pedersen, Frode Milch
  • Olsson, Martin
  • Aas, Arne

Abstract

A low-cost cryptographic accelerator is disclosed that accelerates inner loops of a cryptographic process. The cryptographic accelerator performs operations on cryptographic data provided by a central processing unit (CPU) running a software cryptographic process to create a combined hardware and software cryptographic process, resulting in a lower cost secure communication solution than software-only or hardware-only cryptographic processes. In an embodiment, a cryptographic accelerator comprises: an interface configured to receive cryptographic data, the cryptographic data indicating a particular cryptographic process to be performed on the cryptographic data; transformation logic configured to perform a cryptographic operation on the cryptographic data according to the cryptographic process, the transformation logic including logic for performing cryptographic operations for a plurality of different cryptographic processes; and a state register configured for storing a result of the cryptographic operation.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 21/72 - Protecting specific internal or peripheral components, in which the protection of a component leads to protection of the entire computer to assure secure computing or processing of information in cryptographic circuits
  • H04L 9/06 - Arrangements for secret or secure communicationsNetwork security protocols the encryption apparatus using shift registers or memories for blockwise coding, e.g. D.E.S. systems

52.

Self-setting/resetting latch

      
Application Number 15240983
Grant Number 10200017
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-08-18
First Publication Date 2018-02-22
Grant Date 2019-02-05
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Kotowski, Jeffrey P.
  • Manea, Danut

Abstract

A self-setting/resetting latch circuit is disclosed that includes resistive loads for inverters used for setting and clearing the latch. In a first embodiment, the resistive loads cause the latch circuit to automatically set in response to a power supply voltage going low. In an alternate embodiment, the latch circuit is configured to be self-resetting or self-clearing when the power supply voltage goes low by reversing the set and clear terminals of the latch circuit and selecting a different node to be the output terminal of the latch circuit. The disclosed latch circuit is small and robust and draws zero power in the set state.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G11C 7/10 - Input/output [I/O] data interface arrangements, e.g. I/O data control circuits, I/O data buffers
  • H03K 3/356 - Bistable circuits

53.

Memory emulation mechanism

      
Application Number 15294413
Grant Number 10204057
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-10-14
First Publication Date 2018-02-15
Grant Date 2019-02-12
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pedersen, Frode Milch
  • Garnier, Sylvain
  • Fullerton, Ian
  • Leprevost, Xavier

Abstract

In an embodiment, a method comprises: obtaining a virtual bus address; translating the virtual bus address to a physical address of a portion of NVM storing first data; determining that the first portion of NVM has been allocated previously; reading the first data from the first portion of NVM; determining whether writing second data to the first portion of the NVM would change one or more bits in the first data; responsive to the determining that a write operation only changes data bits in the first data from 1 to 0, writing the second data over the first data stored in the first portion of NVM; and responsive to the determining that one or more bits in the first data would be flipped from 0 to 1, reallocating the first portion of NVM to a second portion of NVM, copying the first data from the first portion of NVM to the second portion of NVM with the first data modified by the second data.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 12/10 - Address translation
  • G06F 12/1009 - Address translation using page tables, e.g. page table structures
  • G06F 12/02 - Addressing or allocationRelocation
  • G06F 3/06 - Digital input from, or digital output to, record carriers

54.

Power mode configuration for touch sensors

      
Application Number 15226606
Grant Number 10061375
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-08-02
First Publication Date 2018-02-08
Grant Date 2018-08-28
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Brillant, Gregory
  • Pedersen, Trond Jarle

Abstract

In one embodiment, a system includes a touch sensor, measurement circuits, and a monitoring circuit. The measurement circuits are respectively coupled to electrodes of the touch sensor. Each measurement circuit includes a first component, a second component, and a third component. The first component of each measurement circuit is activated in a first power mode and the second and third components of each measurement circuit are deactivated in the first power mode. The monitoring circuit is coupled to the measurement circuits and includes a first component, a second component, and a third component. The monitoring circuit is configured to perform operations in the first power mode. The operations include receiving signals from the measurement circuits and generating an output signal that is proportional to a sum of the signals received from the measurement circuits. A value of the generated output signal indicates whether activity has occurred on the touch sensor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 1/32 - Means for saving power
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

55.

Automatic gain control for received signal strength indication

      
Application Number 15627214
Grant Number 10158336
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-06-19
First Publication Date 2018-02-08
Grant Date 2018-12-18
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Blatz, Werner
  • Sagebiel, Michael
  • Janz, Thomas
  • Fischer, Martin
  • Moser, Daniel
  • Knopf, Jan

Abstract

In some implementations, an automatic gain control (AGC) circuit comprises: a pre-divider circuit operable to pre-divide an input signal according to a pre-divider circuit setting and output a pre-divided signal; a pre-amplifier operable to pre-amplify the pre-divided signal and output a pre-amplified signal; a post-divider circuit operable to post-divide the pre-amplified signal according to a post-divider circuit setting; an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) operable to generate a digital data stream from the post-divided signal; logic operable to sample the digital data stream; determine a pre-divider circuit setting and a post-divider circuit setting based on the sampled data stream; set the pre-divider circuit and the post-divider circuit based on the determined settings; and generate a received signal strength value based on the pre-divider circuit setting and the post-divider circuit setting.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 27/08 - Amplitude regulation arrangements
  • H03G 3/30 - Automatic control in amplifiers having semiconductor devices
  • H04B 17/318 - Received signal strength
  • H04B 17/21 - MonitoringTesting of receivers for calibrationMonitoringTesting of receivers for correcting measurements

56.

Security extensions for non-volatile memory

      
Application Number 15385810
Grant Number 10073661
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-12-20
First Publication Date 2018-01-25
Grant Date 2018-09-11
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pedersen, Frode Milch
  • Fullerton, Ian
  • Martinez, Joseph
  • Olsson, Martin

Abstract

The disclosed embodiments provide security extensions for memory (e.g., non-volatile memory) by means of address and data scrambling and differential data storage to minimize exposure to side channel attacks and obfuscate the stored data. The scrambling function maximizes reverse engineering costs when recovering sequences of secret keys.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G11C 8/00 - Arrangements for selecting an address in a digital store
  • G06F 3/06 - Digital input from, or digital output to, record carriers

57.

Antenna on integrated circuit package

      
Application Number 15213320
Grant Number 09899341
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-07-18
First Publication Date 2018-01-18
Grant Date 2018-02-20
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Hashemi, Hassan
  • Atia, Mamdouh
  • Radutnuy, Igor

Abstract

An antenna on integrated circuit (IC) package is disclosed. In an embodiment, an IC package comprises: a substrate; a radio frequency (RF) transceiver attached to the substrate; mold compound encapsulating the substrate; a shield layer formed on the mold compound; and one or more vias extending vertically through the shield layer and the mold compound, providing a conductive path to the RF transceiver. In another embodiment, a method comprises: attaching a radio frequency (RF) transceiver to a substrate; encapsulating the substrate with mold compound; forming a shield layer on the mold compound; and forming one or more vias through the shield layer and mold compound, providing a conductive path to the RF transceiver.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01Q 1/38 - Structural form of radiating elements, e.g. cone, spiral, umbrella formed by a conductive layer on an insulating support
  • H01L 23/66 - High-frequency adaptations
  • H01L 23/31 - Encapsulation, e.g. encapsulating layers, coatings characterised by the arrangement
  • H01L 23/522 - Arrangements for conducting electric current within the device in operation from one component to another including external interconnections consisting of a multilayer structure of conductive and insulating layers inseparably formed on the semiconductor body
  • H01L 23/60 - Protection against electrostatic charges or discharges, e.g. Faraday shields
  • H01L 23/00 - Details of semiconductor or other solid state devices
  • H01L 21/56 - Encapsulations, e.g. encapsulating layers, coatings
  • H04B 1/3888 - Arrangements for carrying or protecting transceivers
  • H04B 1/3827 - Portable transceivers

58.

Inter-process signaling system and method

      
Application Number 15277971
Grant Number 10713188
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-09-27
First Publication Date 2018-01-11
Grant Date 2020-07-14
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Pedersen, Frode Milch

Abstract

An inter-process signaling system and method support implementation of semaphores or messaging signals between masters in a multi-master system, or between tasks in a single master system. A semaphore flag register contains one or more bits indicating whether resources are free or busy. The register is aliased to allow atomic read-and-clear of individual bits in the register. Masters poll the status of a resource until the resource reads as free. Alternatively, interrupts or events per master can be implemented to indicate availability of a resource.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 13/24 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to input/output bus using interrupt
  • G06F 13/16 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to memory bus
  • G06F 9/52 - Program synchronisationMutual exclusion, e.g. by means of semaphores
  • G06F 15/173 - Interprocessor communication using an interconnection network, e.g. matrix, shuffle, pyramid, star or snowflake

59.

Regulators with load-insensitive compensation

      
Application Number 15190878
Grant Number 10768647
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-06-23
First Publication Date 2017-12-28
Grant Date 2020-09-08
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Vareljian, Albert
  • Desai, Ronak
  • Wang, Bilin

Abstract

Systems, methods, circuits and computer-readable mediums for regulators, e.g., low-dropout (LDO) regulators, with load-insensitive compensations are provided. An example regulator includes an amplifier operable to receive an input voltage and a feedback voltage, a follower responsive to an output voltage of the amplifier and operable to supply a regulated voltage to a load coupled to the follower, and a feedback circuit coupled to the load and the amplifier and operable to provide the feedback voltage. The amplifier is operable to have a substantially unity gain beyond a resonant frequency of the amplifier.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05F 1/575 - Regulating voltage or current wherein the variable actually regulated by the final control device is DC using semiconductor devices in series with the load as final control devices characterised by the feedback circuit
  • G05F 1/46 - Regulating voltage or current wherein the variable actually regulated by the final control device is DC
  • G05F 1/59 - Regulating voltage or current wherein the variable actually regulated by the final control device is DC using semiconductor devices in series with the load as final control devices including plural semiconductor devices as final control devices for a single load
  • G05F 1/26 - Regulating voltage or current wherein the variable is actually regulated by the final control device is AC using bucking or boosting transformers as final control devices combined with discharge tubes or semiconductor devices

60.

Excitation voltages for touch sensors

      
Application Number 15188680
Grant Number 10719177
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-06-21
First Publication Date 2017-12-21
Grant Date 2020-07-21
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pedersen, Trond Jarle
  • Dubery, John Stanley

Abstract

A method including applying a first excitation voltage to an electrode of a touch sensor which charges a capacitive node associated with the electrode from a first voltage level to a second voltage level that is greater than the first voltage level. A first measurement measures a charge to change from the first voltage level to the second voltage level. A second excitation voltage is applied to the electrode which charges the capacitive node from the second voltage level to a third voltage level that is greater than the second voltage level. The capacitive node is discharged from the third voltage level to a fourth voltage level that is less than the second voltage level. A second measurement measures a charge to change from the third voltage level to the fourth voltage level. A measured charge signal is generated based on the first measurement and the second measurement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

61.

Touch sensor compensation circuit

      
Application Number 15165541
Grant Number 10120513
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-05-26
First Publication Date 2017-11-30
Grant Date 2018-11-06
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pedersen, Trond Jarle
  • Prohaska, Armin
  • Fenheim, Torgeir
  • Kolb, Peter

Abstract

An apparatus includes an integrator circuit, a compensation circuit, and a sense circuit. The compensation circuit applies a positive charge and a negative charge to the integrator circuit during a first time period and a second time period respectively. The integrator circuit integrates a signal and the positive charge to produce a first sense signal. The signal is based on a charge at an electrode of a touch sensor. The integrator circuit integrates the signal and the negative charge to produce a second sense signal. The sense circuit detects a touch based on the first sense signal and the second sense signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact

62.

Touch detection

      
Application Number 15158843
Grant Number 09983749
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-05-19
First Publication Date 2017-11-23
Grant Date 2018-05-29
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Saether, Terje
  • Jonsson, Carl Olof Fredrik

Abstract

An apparatus includes a driver circuit and a sensing system. The driver circuit includes an operational transconductance amplifier and a current mirror. The current mirror is coupled to the operational transconductance amplifier. The sensing system is coupled to the first current mirror. The sensing system is operable to detect a touch based on a change in capacitance at an electrode of a plurality of electrodes of a touch sensor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

63.

Electronic package

      
Application Number 15149029
Grant Number 09905498
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-05-06
First Publication Date 2017-11-09
Grant Date 2018-02-27
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Lam, Ken M.

Abstract

The disclosed embodiments of electronic packages include electrical contact pad features present on all sides of the package that facilitate simple and low cost electrical connections to the package made through a mechanical contacting scheme. In an embodiment, an electronic package comprises: a metal leadframe having a first leadframe portion having a first thickness and a second leadframe portion having a second thickness that is less than the first thickness, the second leadframe portion defining electrical contact pads; a silicon die attached to the second leadframe portion and overlying a space formed in the leadframe by the first and second leadframe portions; and wirebonds coupling the silicon die to the electrical contact pads. A method of fabricating the electronic package is also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01L 23/42 - Fillings or auxiliary members in containers selected or arranged to facilitate heating or cooling
  • H01L 23/495 - Lead-frames
  • H01L 23/00 - Details of semiconductor or other solid state devices
  • H01L 21/48 - Manufacture or treatment of parts, e.g. containers, prior to assembly of the devices, using processes not provided for in a single one of the groups or
  • H01L 21/56 - Encapsulations, e.g. encapsulating layers, coatings
  • H01L 21/78 - Manufacture or treatment of devices consisting of a plurality of solid state components or integrated circuits formed in, or on, a common substrate with subsequent division of the substrate into plural individual devices
  • H01L 23/31 - Encapsulation, e.g. encapsulating layers, coatings characterised by the arrangement

64.

Driven shield control

      
Application Number 15138152
Grant Number 10025423
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-04-25
First Publication Date 2017-10-26
Grant Date 2018-07-17
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Aas, Arne
  • Viksand, Torbjorn

Abstract

In an embodiment, a circuit comprises: an analog driver operable to drive a sensor voltage on a capacitive sensor; a digital driver; a shield drive control coupled to the analog driver and the digital driver, the shield drive control operable to: during a one or more phases of a capacitive measurement of the capacitive sensor, disable the analog driver and enable the digital driver to drive a driven shield; and during one or more other phases of a capacitive measurement of the capacitive sensor, disable the digital driver and enable the analog driver to drive the driven shield with a driven shield voltage that replicates the sensor voltage.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

65.

Message translator

      
Application Number 15130656
Grant Number 10311005
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-04-15
First Publication Date 2017-10-19
Grant Date 2019-06-04
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Maletsky, Kerry
  • Schieli, Nicolas
  • Grai, Timothy

Abstract

Systems, methods, circuits and computer-readable mediums for a network message translator are disclosed. In an embodiment, a device includes a host processor and a translator. The host processor is configured to process messages and the translator is operable to: receive a first message from the host processor, the first message having a first frame format that is associated with a data time window; translate the first message into a first translated message having a second frame format such that the first translated message includes additional bits based on the second frame format; and sending the first translated message on a bus based on the second frame format such that the first translated message is sent on the bus during the data time window.

IPC Classes  ?

66.

Message authentication with secure code verification

      
Application Number 15131919
Grant Number 10616197
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-04-18
First Publication Date 2017-10-19
Grant Date 2020-04-07
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Maletsky, Kerry
  • Sanchez, Oscar
  • Schieli, Nicolas

Abstract

Systems, methods, circuits and computer-readable mediums for message authentication with secure code verification are provided. In one aspect, a system includes a client device storing a code and a security device coupled to the client device. The security device is configured to receive a property of the code generated by the client device, verify correctness of the property of the code based on information associated with the code to determine that the code is an authorized code, the information being stored within the security device. In response to determining that the code is the authorized code, the security device enables to access data stored within the security device and generate a property of a message based on the data.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol
  • H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
  • H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communicationsNetwork security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system

67.

Multi-channel RAM with ECC for partial writes

      
Application Number 15093342
Grant Number 09898362
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-04-07
First Publication Date 2017-10-12
Grant Date 2018-02-20
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Lunadier, Franck

Abstract

Systems, methods, circuits and computer-readable mediums for multi-channel RAM system with error-correcting code (ECC) protection for partial writes are provided. In one aspect, a method includes accessing a plurality of bursts of partial data units from a plurality of respective bus ports, forming a plurality of memory addresses for a plurality of memory channels by interleaving addresses from the plurality of bus ports, and performing read-modify-write (RMW) error-correcting code (ECC) processes to write partial data units from the plurality of bursts into memory portions corresponding to the formed memory addresses in the plurality of memory channels.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 11/10 - Adding special bits or symbols to the coded information, e.g. parity check, casting out nines or elevens
  • G11C 29/52 - Protection of memory contentsDetection of errors in memory contents
  • G06F 3/06 - Digital input from, or digital output to, record carriers

68.

AUTOMATIC GAIN CONTROL FOR RECEIVED SIGNAL STRENGTH INDICATION

      
Application Number US2017020822
Publication Number 2017/152145
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-03-03
Publication Date 2017-09-08
Owner ATMEL CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Blatz, Werner
  • Sagebiel, Michael
  • Janz, Thomas
  • Fischer, Martin
  • Moser, Daniel
  • Knopf, Jan

Abstract

In some implementations, an automatic gain control (AGC) circuit comprises: a pre-divider circuit operable to pre-divide an input signal according to a pre-divider circuit setting and output a pre-divided signal; a pre-amplifier operable to pre-amplify the pre-divided signal and output a pre-amplified signal; a post-divider circuit operable to post-divide the pre-amplified signal according to a post-divider circuit setting; an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) operable to generate a digital data stream from the post-divided signal; logic operable to sample the digital data stream; determine a pre-divider circuit setting and a post-divider circuit setting based on the sampled data stream; set the pre-divider circuit and the post-divider circuit based on the determined settings; and generate a received signal strength value based on the pre-divider circuit setting and the post-divider circuit setting.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03G 3/30 - Automatic control in amplifiers having semiconductor devices
  • H04B 17/318 - Received signal strength

69.

Touch sensor mode transitioning

      
Application Number 15060277
Grant Number 10175741
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-03-03
First Publication Date 2017-09-07
Grant Date 2019-01-08
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Simmons, Martin J.

Abstract

In one embodiment, a touch sensor controller includes a processor and a monitoring component coupled to the processor. The monitoring component is configured to perform operations comprising receiving, from an impact sensor, an output signal. The output signal is indicative of a plurality of impacts detected by the impact sensor to a surface of a housing of a device. The monitoring component is further configured to perform operations comprising initiating, based on the output signal corresponding to a predefined impact pattern, a transition of the touch sensor from a first power mode to a second power mode.

IPC Classes  ?

70.

Controlled secure code authentication

      
Application Number 15044693
Grant Number 10482255
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-02-16
First Publication Date 2017-08-17
Grant Date 2019-11-19
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Maletsky, Kerry David

Abstract

Systems, methods, circuits and computer-readable mediums for controlled secure code authentication are provided. In one aspect, a method performed by a host device includes transmitting a request to a client device, the request including a challenge for a property of a code stored within the client device, receiving a response to the request, the response comprising information associated with the property of the code, verifying correctness of the response based on the received information, and based on the verifying of the correctness of the response, determining that the code is an authorized code.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 21/57 - Certifying or maintaining trusted computer platforms, e.g. secure boots or power-downs, version controls, system software checks, secure updates or assessing vulnerabilities
  • H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol

71.

Controlled secure code authentication

      
Application Number 15044770
Grant Number 10474823
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-02-16
First Publication Date 2017-08-17
Grant Date 2019-11-12
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Maletsky, Kerry David

Abstract

Systems, methods, circuits and computer-readable mediums for controlled secure code authentication are provided. In one aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform a method including: sending a request to a client device, the request including a challenge for a property of a particular portion from among a plurality of portions of code stored within the client device, the challenge including data indicating a particular memory address range corresponding to the particular portion of the code, receiving a response to the request from the client device, the response including information associated with the property of the code, verifying correctness of the response based on the received information, and based on verifying correctness of the response, determining that the code is an authorized code.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 21/57 - Certifying or maintaining trusted computer platforms, e.g. secure boots or power-downs, version controls, system software checks, secure updates or assessing vulnerabilities
  • G06F 21/44 - Program or device authentication
  • G06F 21/60 - Protecting data
  • G06F 21/64 - Protecting data integrity, e.g. using checksums, certificates or signatures
  • H04L 9/30 - Public key, i.e. encryption algorithm being computationally infeasible to invert and users' encryption keys not requiring secrecy
  • H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communicationsNetwork security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
  • H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol

72.

Connecting electrodes to voltages

      
Application Number 15045834
Grant Number 09983748
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-02-17
First Publication Date 2017-08-17
Grant Date 2018-05-29
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pedersen, Trond Jarle
  • Fenheim, Torgeir
  • Herheim, Jan Rune
  • Schabel, Stefan Markus

Abstract

In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a first electrode, one or more processors, and one or more memory units coupled to the one or more processors. The one or more memory units collectively store logic that is configured to cause the one or more processors to control connections of the first electrode by connecting the first electrode to a first reference voltage, then connecting the first electrode to a second reference voltage lower than the first reference voltage, and then connecting the first electrode to a third reference voltage lower than the first reference voltage and the second reference voltage. The second reference voltage is coupled to a capacitor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 1/32 - Means for saving power

73.

Automatic gain control for received signal strength indication

      
Application Number 15061981
Grant Number 09729119
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-03-04
First Publication Date 2017-08-08
Grant Date 2017-08-08
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Blatz, Werner
  • Sagebiel, Michael
  • Janz, Thomas
  • Fischer, Martin
  • Moser, Daniel
  • Knopf, Jan

Abstract

In some implementations, an automatic gain control (AGC) circuit comprises: a pre-divider circuit operable to pre-divide an input signal according to a pre-divider circuit setting and output a pre-divided signal; a pre-amplifier operable to pre-amplify the pre-divided signal and output a pre-amplified signal; a post-divider circuit operable to post-divide the pre-amplified signal according to a post-divider circuit setting; an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) operable to generate a digital data stream from the post-divided signal; logic operable to sample the digital data stream; determine a pre-divider circuit setting and a post-divider circuit setting based on the sampled data stream; set the pre-divider circuit and the post-divider circuit based on the determined settings; and generate a received signal strength value based on the pre-divider circuit setting and the post-divider circuit setting.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 27/08 - Amplitude regulation arrangements
  • H03G 3/30 - Automatic control in amplifiers having semiconductor devices
  • H04B 17/318 - Received signal strength
  • H04B 17/23 - Indication means, e.g. displays, alarms or audible means
  • H04B 17/21 - MonitoringTesting of receivers for calibrationMonitoringTesting of receivers for correcting measurements

74.

Reference voltage circuits in microcontroller systems

      
Application Number 15490387
Grant Number 10203743
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-04-18
First Publication Date 2017-08-03
Grant Date 2019-02-12
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Menard, Patrice
  • Husson, Olivier
  • Le Dily, Mickael
  • Gourbilleau, Thierry
  • Laurent, Marc
  • Schabel, Stefan
  • Barzic, Ronan

Abstract

A microcontroller system includes a higher power reference voltage circuit and a lower power reference voltage circuit configured to draw less power than the higher power reference voltage circuit when enabled. The system includes a power state logic controller configured to enable the lower power reference voltage circuit to provide a first regulated voltage during a power saving mode, and, on exiting the power saving mode, enable the higher power reference voltage circuit to provide a second regulated voltage.

IPC Classes  ?

75.

Multi-state capacitive button

      
Application Number 15414766
Grant Number 10284196
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-01-25
First Publication Date 2017-07-13
Grant Date 2019-05-07
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Hanssen, Ingar
  • Rødland, Arild
  • Whelan, Rian

Abstract

In certain embodiments, a method includes applying voltage to a sensor that includes first and second electrode tracks, the sensor proximate to a conductor depressible relative to the sensor and located between a button and the sensor. The conductor can capacitively couple with a capacitive node formed by the tracks, and the button can capacitively couple with an object. A value of a capacitance at the node is measured, the capacitance reflecting an amount of capacitive coupling between the conductor and the node. In response to the value meeting a first condition, a first button state is detected, indicating the object is within a detectable distance of and not in contact with the button. In response to the value meeting a second condition, a second button state is detected, indicating the object is in contact with the button and the conductor is not in contact with the sensor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03K 17/96 - Touch switches
  • G01R 27/26 - Measuring inductance or capacitanceMeasuring quality factor, e.g. by using the resonance methodMeasuring loss factorMeasuring dielectric constants
  • H03K 17/955 - Proximity switches using a capacitive detector

76.

Touch sensor and associated control method for decreased capacitive loads

      
Application Number 14990974
Grant Number 10013101
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-01-08
First Publication Date 2017-07-13
Grant Date 2018-07-03
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Brunet, Samuel
  • Collins, Richard P.
  • Simmons, Martin J.
  • Church, Justin A.

Abstract

A device includes a controller coupled to a touch sensor. The touch sensor includes a first array of capacitive nodes substantially aligned with a second array of capacitive nodes in a mechanical stack. The controller is configured, when in a self-capacitive mode of operation, to send a first drive signal to a plurality of the electrodes of the first array, send a shield signal to at least a portion of the electrodes of the second array at the same time as the first drive signal is sent to the plurality of electrodes of the first array, and sense touch inputs based on signals received from the plurality of electrodes of the first array while the first drive signal is being sent to the plurality of electrodes of the first array and the shield signal is being sent to the at least a portion of the electrodes of the second array.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 3/047 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using sets of wires, e.g. crossed wires

77.

Double-sided electronic package

      
Application Number 15149033
Grant Number 09704812
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-05-06
First Publication Date 2017-07-11
Grant Date 2017-07-11
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Lam, Ken M.

Abstract

Embodiments of a double-sided electronic package and methods for fabricating the same are disclosed. In an embodiment, an electronic package comprises: a substrate having a first surface and a second surface; a leadframe having package pad features attached to the first surface of the substrate; a first integrated circuit die attached to the leadframe and electrically coupled to at least one of the package pad features; and molding disposed on the first surface of the substrate between the package pad features, such that the package pad features extend vertically from the first surface of the substrate to a surface of the electronic package, the package pad features forming electrically conductive paths that are exposed on the surface of the electronic package.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01L 23/50 - Arrangements for conducting electric current to or from the solid state body in operation, e.g. leads or terminal arrangements for integrated circuit devices
  • H01L 23/552 - Protection against radiation, e.g. light
  • H01L 23/495 - Lead-frames
  • H01L 23/31 - Encapsulation, e.g. encapsulating layers, coatings characterised by the arrangement
  • H01L 21/48 - Manufacture or treatment of parts, e.g. containers, prior to assembly of the devices, using processes not provided for in a single one of the groups or
  • H01L 21/56 - Encapsulations, e.g. encapsulating layers, coatings
  • H01L 23/66 - High-frequency adaptations

78.

Adjustable power and system efficiency maximizing scheme using micro-controllers

      
Application Number 13676481
Grant Number 09698597
Status In Force
Filing Date 2012-11-14
First Publication Date 2017-07-04
Grant Date 2017-07-04
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Ramesh, Girish
  • Rau, Karthik

Abstract

A method performed by a circuit for managing power, the method comprising: receiving a plurality of voltages at a microcontroller, where each voltage is associated with a distinct power supply; determining one or more voltages of the plurality of voltages are being or will be adjusted by the respective power supply; in response to the determining, optimizing, using the microcontroller, one or more parameters of one or more of the power supplies to minimize power loss.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H02J 1/10 - Parallel operation of dc sources
  • H02M 1/00 - Details of apparatus for conversion
  • G05F 1/10 - Regulating voltage or current
  • H02J 3/00 - Circuit arrangements for ac mains or ac distribution networks

79.

Microcontroller including power supply monitoring

      
Application Number 14982427
Grant Number 10126337
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-12-29
First Publication Date 2017-06-29
Grant Date 2018-11-13
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Menard, Patrice
  • Gourbilleau, Thierry
  • Kervaon, Thibault
  • Vix, Régis

Abstract

A microcontroller is operable to monitor power supply levels corresponding, respectively, to a first power supply (e.g., a main power supply) and a second power supply (e.g., a battery backup power supply). In one or more modes of operation, the same brownout detector in the microcontroller alternately monitors signals corresponding, respectively, to the first and second power supply levels.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01R 21/00 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor
  • G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
  • G01R 19/165 - Indicating that current or voltage is either above or below a predetermined value or within or outside a predetermined range of values
  • G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric

80.

Single wire system clock signal generation

      
Application Number 15438064
Grant Number 09985778
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-02-21
First Publication Date 2017-06-08
Grant Date 2018-05-29
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Weiner, Albert S.

Abstract

This specification describes an integrated circuit comprising: a single wire interface; a clock circuit configured to detect a voltage from the single wire interface and to generate a clock signal having a frequency that is based on the detected voltage; and a digital system coupled with the single wire interface and the clock circuit. The digital system is configured to: receive a data signal from the single wire interface; power the digital system using a power signal from the single wire interface; and perform one or more operations clocked by the clock signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 7/04 - Speed or phase control by synchronisation signals
  • H04L 7/00 - Arrangements for synchronising receiver with transmitter
  • H04L 12/26 - Monitoring arrangements; Testing arrangements

81.

Input/output parameter selection

      
Application Number 14946901
Grant Number 09934377
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-11-20
First Publication Date 2017-05-25
Grant Date 2018-04-03
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Samat, Pierre
  • Vergnes, Alain
  • Douguet, Michel

Abstract

A device comprises a detector configured to detect an event, and a selector coupled to the detector and configured to generate a signal in response to a detection of an event by the detector. The signal is operable to select a set of input/output (I/O) parameters from among first and second stored sets of parameters. The device also includes a configuration module coupled to the selector. The configuration module is configured to output the selected set of I/O parameters.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 21/55 - Detecting local intrusion or implementing counter-measures
  • G06F 11/30 - Monitoring
  • G06F 13/40 - Bus structure
  • G06F 21/85 - Protecting input, output or interconnection devices interconnection devices, e.g. bus-connected or in-line devices
  • G06F 21/60 - Protecting data

82.

System architecture with secure data exchange

      
Application Number 14942713
Grant Number 10776294
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-11-16
First Publication Date 2017-05-18
Grant Date 2020-09-15
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pean, Guillaume
  • Debout, Vincent
  • Maunier, Marc

Abstract

In an embodiment, a system comprises: a first bus; a second bus; a first peripheral coupled to the first bus and the second bus, the first peripheral configured to receive a command from the first bus and to generate data in response to the first command; and a second peripheral coupled to the first bus and the second bus, the second peripheral configured to initiate transfer of the generated data from the first peripheral to the second peripheral over the second bus such that access to the generated data through the first bus is prevented.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 13/20 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to input/output bus
  • G06F 13/10 - Program control for peripheral devices
  • G06F 13/40 - Bus structure

83.

Debugger for wireless sensor networks

      
Application Number 14936549
Grant Number 10432500
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-11-09
First Publication Date 2017-05-11
Grant Date 2019-10-01
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Kumar, Vinoth
  • Muralidharan, Srivatsan
  • Muthulingam, Praveen Babu Reddy
  • Mulamreddy, Subbareddy

Abstract

In an embodiment, a method of debugging a wireless sensor network comprises: initiating, by a server node over a wireless medium, a single debugging session with a plurality of nodes of the wireless sensor network; receiving, by the server node over the wireless medium, network topology information from the nodes; and presenting, by a display device coupled to the server node, a network topology view constructed from the topology information, the network topology view including a graphical representation of each node in the topology.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 12/751 - Topology update or discovery
  • H04L 12/24 - Arrangements for maintenance or administration
  • H04W 40/24 - Connectivity information management, e.g. connectivity discovery or connectivity update
  • H04L 12/801 - Flow control or congestion control
  • H04L 12/26 - Monitoring arrangements; Testing arrangements

84.

Centralized peripheral access protection

      
Application Number 15412198
Grant Number 09952913
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-01-23
First Publication Date 2017-05-11
Grant Date 2018-04-24
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pedersen, Frode Milch
  • Jouin, Sebastien
  • Danielsen, Stein
  • Fosse, Francois
  • Delalande, Thierry
  • Holand, Ivar
  • Hallman, James

Abstract

Implementations are disclosed for a centralized peripheral access controller (PAC) that is configured to protect one or more peripheral components in a system. In some implementations, the PAC stores data that can be set or cleared by software. The data corresponds to an output signal of the PAC that is routed to a corresponding peripheral component. When the data indicates that the peripheral is “unlocked” the PAC will allow write transfers to registers in the peripheral component. When the data indicates that the peripheral component is “locked” the PAC will refuse write transfers to registers in the peripheral component and terminate with an error.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 13/362 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to common bus or bus system with centralised access control
  • G06F 17/30 - Information retrieval; Database structures therefor
  • G06F 13/40 - Bus structure
  • G06F 13/12 - Program control for peripheral devices using hardware independent of the central processor, e.g. channel or peripheral processor
  • G06F 9/52 - Program synchronisationMutual exclusion, e.g. by means of semaphores
  • G06F 13/28 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to input/output bus using burst mode transfer, e.g. direct memory access, cycle steal
  • G06F 13/42 - Bus transfer protocol, e.g. handshakeSynchronisation

85.

Suspension of touch sensor scan based on an expected interference

      
Application Number 14928437
Grant Number 09927910
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-10-30
First Publication Date 2017-05-04
Grant Date 2018-03-27
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Brunet, Samuel
  • Reynolds, Grahame
  • Syed, Hammad

Abstract

In certain embodiments, a touch sensor controller suspends a scan of a touch sensitive area of a touch sensor for touch events based on an expected interference between the scan and an update of a display screen. After the first time period, touch sensor controller resumes the scan.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

86.

Interleaved scanning for capacitive touch sensors

      
Application Number 14882170
Grant Number 09817531
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-10-13
First Publication Date 2017-04-13
Grant Date 2017-11-14
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Cleary, Feargal

Abstract

A touch sensing circuit includes: a plurality of sensor channels; a controller coupled to the plurality of sensor channels, the controller configured to: map the sensor channels to sensor nodes, the sensor nodes forming a plurality of interleaved lumped sensors, where at least two of the interleaved lumped sensors include a common sensor node; scan, during a scan period, the interleaved lumped sensors to detect one or more touch inputs; and responsive to detecting one or more touch inputs, determining a location of at least one touch input.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

87.

Microcontroller input/output connector state retention in low-power modes

      
Application Number 15368808
Grant Number 10317978
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-12-05
First Publication Date 2017-03-23
Grant Date 2019-06-11
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Jouin, Sebastien
  • Oddoart, Romain
  • Menard, Patrice
  • Le Dily, Mickael
  • Gourbilleau, Thierry

Abstract

A microcontroller is operable in a low-power mode and includes one or more I/O connectors, as well as an I/O controller operable to provide control signals for controlling a state of a particular one of the I/O connectors. The I/O controller is powered off or deactivated during the low-power mode. The microcontroller also includes I/O connector state control logic operable to control the state of the particular one of the I/O connectors in accordance with the control signals from the I/O controller. The I/O connector state control logic includes I/O connector state retention logic that retains states of the control signals and maintains the particular I/O connector in a corresponding state in accordance with the retained control signals while the microcontroller is in the low-power mode.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 1/00 - Details not covered by groups and
  • G06F 1/3234 - Power saving characterised by the action undertaken
  • G06F 1/3287 - Power saving characterised by the action undertaken by switching off individual functional units in the computer system
  • G06F 13/16 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to memory bus

88.

Permitting coexistence of data transfer of interfering wireless signals

      
Application Number 15365604
Grant Number 09942797
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-11-30
First Publication Date 2017-03-23
Grant Date 2018-04-10
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Wasily, Nabil Yousef

Abstract

A system and method of permitting coexistence of WiFi and Bluetooth® data transfer on a single chip in UE including a transceiver includes using CTS data packets to protect Bluetooth® signals for SCO communication links; using only WiFi circuitry in the chip to determine when Bluetooth® data transfer is required by the UE; establishing a specified period of the Bluetooth® data transfer; and starting WiFi medium contention only upon an end of the specified period of the Bluetooth® data transfer on the single chip. The power save mode of the WiFi circuitry may be used with Bluetooth® ACL data packets in WiFi periodic data transfer gaps. The WiFi data transfer has no timing constraints, whereas the Bluetooth® data transfer has timing constraints and can only occur during the specified period. The WiFi data transfer does not occur when the Bluetooth® data transfer is occurring.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04W 28/04 - Error control
  • H04W 88/06 - Terminal devices adapted for operation in multiple networks, e.g. multi-mode terminals
  • H04M 1/725 - Cordless telephones
  • H04B 1/403 - Circuits using the same oscillator for generating both the transmitter frequency and the receiver local oscillator frequency
  • H04W 72/12 - Wireless traffic scheduling
  • H04W 4/00 - Services specially adapted for wireless communication networksFacilities therefor
  • H04W 52/02 - Power saving arrangements
  • H04W 74/08 - Non-scheduled access, e.g. ALOHA

89.

Breaking code execution based on time consumption

      
Application Number 15343666
Grant Number 10176076
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-11-04
First Publication Date 2017-03-02
Grant Date 2019-01-08
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Hanssen, Ingar

Abstract

An on-chip system uses a time measurement circuit to trap code that takes longer than expected to execute by breaking code execution on excess time consumption.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 9/44 - Arrangements for executing specific programs
  • G06F 11/36 - Prevention of errors by analysis, debugging or testing of software
  • G06F 11/34 - Recording or statistical evaluation of computer activity, e.g. of down time, of input/output operation

90.

Microcontroller architecture with access stealing

      
Application Number 14835418
Grant Number 09626310
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-08-25
First Publication Date 2017-03-02
Grant Date 2017-04-18
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pean, Guillaume
  • Tiennot, Renaud
  • Debout, Vincent

Abstract

A microcontroller system is disclosed that includes an access stealing monitor coupled to a bus that is configured to receive a first access request from the bus for a first peripheral, duplicate the first access request, transform the first access request to a second access request on a second peripheral, and transfer the second access request to the bus. In another embodiment, a first peripheral coupled to the bus is configured to receive a first access request from the bus for the first peripheral, duplicate the first access request and transform the first access request to a second access request. A second peripheral coupled to the bus and to the first peripheral is configured to receive the second access request and to respond to the second access request. Methods of access stealing in a microcontroller system are also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 13/16 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to memory bus
  • G06F 13/20 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to input/output bus
  • G06F 13/40 - Bus structure

91.

Single-wire communications using iterative baud learning

      
Application Number 15345083
Grant Number 09882738
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-11-07
First Publication Date 2017-02-23
Grant Date 2018-01-30
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Manea, Danut
  • Kotowski, Jeffrey P.

Abstract

Systems and techniques for single-wire communications are described. A described technique includes detecting transitions on a single-wire bus that are produced by a host device, determining an estimated baud rate of the host device based on the transition, and communicating with the host device based on the estimated baud rate. Determining the estimated baud rate can include charging a capacitor based on a charging rate in response to a detection of a first transition of the transitions, sampling a capacitor voltage associated with the capacitor in response to a detection of a second transition of the transitions, and adjusting the charging rate based on a comparison between the capacitor voltage and a reference voltage.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 7/00 - Arrangements for synchronising receiver with transmitter
  • H04L 12/40 - Bus networks

92.

Memory system with encoding

      
Application Number 14816478
Grant Number 09824732
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-08-03
First Publication Date 2017-02-09
Grant Date 2017-11-21
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Weiner, Albert S.

Abstract

In an embodiment, a memory system comprises a memory array having memory cells. A decoder is coupled to the memory array and configured to decode input address signals to generate memory cell selection signals. An encoder is configured to generate encoded selection signals based on the memory cell selection signals. In another embodiment, a method comprises: receiving by the decoder of the memory system input address signals, generating, by the decoder, selection signals for selecting a memory cell in the memory array, and generating, by an encoder, encoded selection signals based on the selection signals.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G11C 8/10 - Decoders
  • G11C 8/08 - Word line control circuits, e.g. drivers, boosters, pull-up circuits, pull-down circuits, precharging circuits, for word lines
  • G11C 8/12 - Group selection circuits, e.g. for memory block selection, chip selection, array selection
  • G11C 29/08 - Functional testing, e.g. testing during refresh, power-on self testing [POST] or distributed testing
  • G11C 7/24 - Memory cell safety or protection circuits, e.g. arrangements for preventing inadvertent reading or writingStatus cellsTest cells
  • G11C 29/52 - Protection of memory contentsDetection of errors in memory contents

93.

Frequency control data synchronization

      
Application Number 14815776
Grant Number 09780944
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-07-31
First Publication Date 2017-02-02
Grant Date 2017-10-03
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Sachse, Eric
  • Eggert, Dietmar
  • Beyer, Sascha
  • Kluge, Wolfram

Abstract

In an embodiment, a circuit includes a synchronizer configured to generate a trigger signal synchronized to a reference clock. A synthesizer is configured to synthesize a signal according to frequency control data in response to the trigger signal. A radio receiver is configured to process a carrier signal according to the synthesized signal. A phase measurement unit is configured to measure a first channel frequency response based on the processed carrier signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01S 13/84 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systemsAnalogous systems wherein continuous-type signals are transmitted for distance determination by phase measurement
  • H04L 7/033 - Speed or phase control by the received code signals, the signals containing no special synchronisation information using the transitions of the received signal to control the phase of the synchronising-signal- generating means, e.g. using a phase-locked loop
  • H03J 1/00 - Details of adjusting, driving, indicating, or mechanical control arrangements for resonant circuits in general
  • H04B 1/40 - Circuits
  • H04L 27/00 - Modulated-carrier systems

94.

System bus transaction queue reallocation

      
Application Number 15265057
Grant Number 11256632
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-09-14
First Publication Date 2017-01-05
Grant Date 2022-02-22
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Lunadier, Franck
  • Debout, Vincent

Abstract

A bus architecture is disclosed that provides for transaction queue reallocation on the modules communicating using the bus. A module can implement a transaction request queue by virtue of digital electronic circuitry, e.g., hardware or software or a combination of both. Some bus clogging issues that affect conventional systems can be circumvented by combining an out of order system bus protocol that uses a transaction request replay mechanism. Modules can evict less urgent transactions from transaction request queues to make room to insert more urgent transactions. Master modules can dynamically update a quality of service (QoS) value for a transaction while the transaction is still pending.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 13/16 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to memory bus
  • G06F 13/36 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to common bus or bus system
  • G06F 13/14 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer
  • G06F 13/364 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to common bus or bus system with centralised access control using independent requests or grants, e.g. using separated request and grant lines
  • G06F 13/42 - Bus transfer protocol, e.g. handshakeSynchronisation

95.

Pulse width modulation controller architectures

      
Application Number 15260246
Grant Number 09917505
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-09-08
First Publication Date 2016-12-29
Grant Date 2018-03-13
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Courtel, Karl Jean-Paul

Abstract

Systems, apparatuses, and techniques for pulse width modulation (PWM) are described. A described system includes a circuit that contains an inductor and a transistor that controls current through the inductor based on a PWM signal to produce an output; and a controller to provide the PWM signal, which includes PWM cycles that include on-durations and off-durations. The controller can receive a first signal indicating an input voltage that is applied to the inductor, receive a second signal indicating a current through the inductor, use an on-duration parameter value to control the on-duration, determine a maximum off-duration of the off-durations corresponding to the PWM cycles occurring within a first voltage cycle, the first voltage cycle being defined between two consecutive zero-crossing events as indicated by the first signal, and adjust the on-duration parameter value for a second, subsequent voltage cycle based on the maximum off-duration to regulate the output voltage.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H02M 1/42 - Circuits or arrangements for compensating for or adjusting power factor in converters or inverters
  • H02M 3/156 - Conversion of DC power input into DC power output without intermediate conversion into AC by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only with automatic control of output voltage or current, e.g. switching regulators
  • H02M 1/08 - Circuits specially adapted for the generation of control voltages for semiconductor devices incorporated in static converters
  • H02M 1/00 - Details of apparatus for conversion

96.

Managing wait states for memory access

      
Application Number 15223227
Grant Number 09710169
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-07-29
First Publication Date 2016-11-17
Grant Date 2017-07-18
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Pedersen, Frode Milch
  • Jouin, Sebastien
  • Fullerton, Ian

Abstract

A latch signal is received from a non-volatile memory device that is indicative of a current access time for the non-volatile memory device. The access time represents an amount of time required for the non-volatile memory device to make data available responsive to a request for data. A bus system clock signal is received. The latch signal is evaluated and a wait state for the non-volatile memory device is adjusted based on the evaluation. The wait state represents a number of cycles of the bus system clock used by a central processing unit for an access of the non-volatile memory device. A bus system data ready signal that is triggered based on the adjusted wait state is produced. The bus system data ready signal, when triggered, indicates that data is available responsive to the request.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/06 - Digital input from, or digital output to, record carriers
  • G06F 13/42 - Bus transfer protocol, e.g. handshakeSynchronisation
  • G06F 13/16 - Handling requests for interconnection or transfer for access to memory bus

97.

Adaptive non-volatile memory programming

      
Application Number 14943566
Grant Number 09489990
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-11-17
First Publication Date 2016-11-08
Grant Date 2016-11-08
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Frulio, Massimiliano

Abstract

In an embodiment, a method of programming non-volatile memory (NVM) comprises: determining, by control logic of an NVM system, a number of unsuccessful attempts to program NVM cells; responsive to the determining, dividing the NVM cells into at least a first group and a second group; programming the first group during a first programming cycle; and programming the second group during a second programming cycle, wherein the first programming cycle and second programming cycle are different.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G11C 16/34 - Determination of programming status, e.g. threshold voltage, overprogramming or underprogramming, retention
  • G11C 7/00 - Arrangements for writing information into, or reading information out from, a digital store

98.

Driven shield for shaping an electric field of a touch sensor

      
Application Number 15148639
Grant Number 10146361
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-05-06
First Publication Date 2016-11-03
Grant Date 2018-12-04
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Siska, Andrew

Abstract

In one embodiment, a method comprises generating, by a control unit, a first drive signal and a second drive signal. The method further includes emitting, by a touch sensor, a first electric field that extends in a plurality of directions in response to reception of the first drive signal. The method also includes attenuating, by a conductive shield, a portion of the first electric field that extends from the touch sensor towards the conductive shield by generating a second electric field in response to reception of the second drive signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means
  • H03K 17/955 - Proximity switches using a capacitive detector
  • G01R 27/26 - Measuring inductance or capacitanceMeasuring quality factor, e.g. by using the resonance methodMeasuring loss factorMeasuring dielectric constants
  • H03K 17/96 - Touch switches

99.

Secure access in a microcontroller system

      
Application Number 14698330
Grant Number 09715601
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-04-28
First Publication Date 2016-11-03
Grant Date 2017-07-25
Owner Atmel Corporation (USA)
Inventor Pedersen, Frode Milch

Abstract

Systems, methods and computer-readable mediums are disclosed for providing secure access in a microcontroller system. In some implementations, a microcontroller system comprises a system bus and a secure central processing unit (CPU) coupled to the system bus. The secure CPU is configured to provide secure access to the system bus. A non-secure CPU is also coupled to the system bus and is configured to provide non-secure access to the system bus. A non-secure memory is coupled to the system bus and is configured to allow the secure CPU and the non-secure CPU to exchange data and communicate with each other. A peripheral access controller (PAC) is coupled to the system bus and configured to enable secure access to a peripheral by the secure CPU while disabling non-secure access to the peripheral based upon a non-secure state of the non-secure CPU.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 21/31 - User authentication
  • G06F 21/85 - Protecting input, output or interconnection devices interconnection devices, e.g. bus-connected or in-line devices
  • G06F 21/57 - Certifying or maintaining trusted computer platforms, e.g. secure boots or power-downs, version controls, system software checks, secure updates or assessing vulnerabilities
  • G06F 21/74 - Protecting specific internal or peripheral components, in which the protection of a component leads to protection of the entire computer to assure secure computing or processing of information operating in dual or compartmented mode, i.e. at least one secure mode

100.

SECURE ACCESS IN A MICROCONTROLLER SYSTEM

      
Application Number US2016029033
Publication Number 2016/176126
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-04-22
Publication Date 2016-11-03
Owner ATMEL CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Pedersen, Frode Milch

Abstract

Systems, methods and computer-readable mediums are disclosed for providing secure access in a microcontroller system. In some implementations, a microcontroller system comprises a system bus and a secure central processing unit (CPU) coupled to the system bus. The secure CPU is configured to provide secure access to the system bus. A non-secure CPU is also coupled to the system bus and is configured to provide non-secure access to the system bus. A non-secure memory is coupled to the system bus and is configured to allow the secure CPU and the non-secure CPU to exchange data and communicate with each other. A peripheral access controller (PAC) is coupled to the system bus and configured to enable secure access to a peripheral by the secure CPU while disabling non-secure access to the peripheral based upon a non-secure state of the non-secure CPU.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 21/74 - Protecting specific internal or peripheral components, in which the protection of a component leads to protection of the entire computer to assure secure computing or processing of information operating in dual or compartmented mode, i.e. at least one secure mode
  • G06F 21/57 - Certifying or maintaining trusted computer platforms, e.g. secure boots or power-downs, version controls, system software checks, secure updates or assessing vulnerabilities
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