Abstract:
An apparatus and method are described herein, which simultaneously promotes a positive computing experience for users of portable computer systems and increases overall durability and longevity thereof. In one embodiment, an optical apparatus enhances the user computing experience, in one embodiment by simplifying operation, and is much more durable and long-lasting than mechanical switch and dial type devices it may replace. In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to an apparatus, which enables efficient portable computer device function, field, and data selection, gaming, input, interconnection, and other switching-related functions, simplifying operation and enhancing versatility thereof, yet without exposing the portable computer interior to any degree to incursion of environmental contamination. In one embodiment, an optical apparatus obviates openings in a portable computer package which would otherwise be required. In one embodiment, the apparatus, capable of sensing manipulation and directed by software, has a light source and corresponding light sensor.

Description:
RELATED U.S. PATENT APPLICATION 
       [0001]    This Continuation Application claims the benefit and priority of the co-pending, commonly-owned US Patent Application with Attorney Docket No. PALM-3641.5G.CON, application Ser. No. 10/951,537, filed on Sep. 27, 2004, by Wong et al., and titled “OPTICAL SENSOR BASED USER INTERFACE FOR A PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE,” which is a Continuation Application that claims the benefit of the commonly-owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/871,375 filed on May 30, 2001, now issued as a U.S. Pat. No. 6,816,154, by Wong et al., and titled “Optical Sensor Based User Interface For a Portable Electronic Device,” which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    The present invention relates to the field of portable electronic devices such as personal digital assistants or pentop computer systems. Specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for utilizing an optical sensor based user interlace for registering user input. 
         [0004]    2. Related Art 
         [0005]    Portable computer systems, such as “palmtop” computer systems, or personal digital assistants (PDA) have become commonplace and extraordinarily useful electronic devices. A palmtop computer system includes a hand-held device and a cradle device to which it ports and which connects and synchronizes it to other computers. Owing to their portability, capability, and versatility, hand-held computer devices are designed to be used in a wide variety of environments, for many applications. 
         [0006]    Portable computers are usually robustly packaged devices, designed for simplicity of operation and durability. Few penetrations expose their interiors, wherein their operational components reside. However, function/field selection buttons, on/off, interconnection, and other switching components expose the interior to some degree to allow accessibility for switching and other operations. Mechanical switching components, such as switches, buttons, and, especially, thumbwheels and associated potentiometers, variable capacitors, and the like, while ostensibly durable, have definite physical vulnerabilities and finite operational lifespans. Further, although designed for operational simplicity, using a portable computer system by manipulating these switching components requires some degree of tactile skill. 
         [0007]    Portable computer systems may be used in harsh environments, unlike other computers designed with less of a degree of mobility, such as desktop computer systems. For example, desktop computer systems most often find application in offices, classrooms, and similar milieus, with environments subject to some relatively satisfactory degree of control. Portable computer systems, on the other hand, while indeed they may also be used in such environments, are designed for use almost anywhere, contributing to their versatility and usefulness, e.g., a vehicle, outside, etc. 
         [0008]    Portable computer systems are frequently and reliably deployed in-transit, in private and public modes of transportation of almost every kind. Portable computer systems find operational deployment in the field in, for example, industrial, urban, marine, construction, and even military application. Under these circumstances, their operational environment may vary widely and change rapidly, often subject to little or no control. These environments may also be quite rugged, extreme, wet, dirty, contaminated, and dusty. 
         [0009]    When their operational environment is rugged, extreme, wet, dirty, dusty, or contaminated, operation of the portable computer system may contribute to or cause internal contamination or physical damage. Environmental contaminants such as moisture, dirt, dust, chemicals, and the like, may penetrate even the small openings for exposure of switching components to user manipulation, especially thumbwheels and their associated potentiometers. Once inside the portable computer, or a connector or button, they may cause fouling, damage, or destruction of its internal microelectronic and other components. And while switching components may be designed for durability, they all display some degree of physical vulnerability and aging degradation characteristics. 
         [0010]    Although designed for operational simplicity, portable computer systems require same dexterity to operate properly. To operate the portable computer system to accomplish these tasks, controls and switching components must be manipulated. Manipulation enables, for example, choosing a screen, scrolling through various screens, selecting an on-screen icon, field, menu, listing, or data entry, or “writing to” or “typing on” an on-board touch-sensitive writing pad-like surface with a stylus, or other touch-enabling probe. 
         [0011]    However, also owing to their versatility and portability, portable computer systems may be operated by a user who is purposefully multi-tasking, or otherwise engaged in other activities besides operating the portable computer. Portable computer systems are routinely utilized to, for example, access telephone numbers from an on-board telephone list, reminders from an on-board list of memoranda, gaming, portable internet browsing or email access, and a host of other computer-enabled and/or enhanced activities, all while the user is fully engaged in some other task. 
         [0012]    When the circumstances under which portable computer systems are used become complex and distracting, operation of the portable computer system may become difficult. This may detract from the computing experience of the user, it may cause errors or loss of data, and/or require operational stops to be repeated. This is inconvenient and costly. 
         [0013]    Conventionally, an approach to solving the problem of internal exposure of portable computers to environmental contaminants has been to attempt to minimize the interior exposure. This has been accomplished in one attempted solution by reducing the number and size of penetrations through their cases, and to seal the penetrations. Reducing the number of penetrations requires a concomitant reduction in the number of switching components. This requires switching components to have multiple, selectable functions. However, this has the undesirable effect of increasing operational complexity. Sealing the penetrations increases packaging complexity and increases unit costs, and interferes with switching component operations. 
         [0014]    Conventionally, an approach to solving the problem of making portable computer device operation less complicated for engaged users, especially those simultaneously engaged in activities besides computing, has been to simplify the computer-user interface. This has been attempted, in one approach, by adding switching components. However, this has the undesirable effect of increasing package penetration with resulting increased internal exposure of the computer device to environmental contaminants. 
         [0015]    Another conventional method of attempting to solve this problem has been-to change the characteristics of the switching components. For instance, in one approach, a “jog wheel,” “thumb wheel,” or similar of rotary dial-type mechanism. However, this particular approach is especially vulnerable to environmental contamination problems. 
         [0016]    Rotary dial-type mechanisms rotate about a shaft, which penetrates the package of the portable computer system to actuate the rotationally variable electrical components contained within. This shaft penetration is potentially a route for incursion of environmental contamination to the sensitive interior of the portable computer device. Exacerbating this problem is the size of the rotary dial, itself. Normally, such dials are larger than other switches penetrating the portable computer device package. Further, the dial has a lower surface facing the portable computer device package, yet not quite abutting it. 
         [0017]    The space beneath the dial, between the dial and the portable computer device package is especially susceptible to the accumulation of moisture, detritus, dirt, dust, debris, oil, and chemicals. This is particularly problematic for three reasons. First, because the potential environmental contaminants remain there, proximate to a potential incursion route to the portable computer system interior even after the portable computer system is removed from the contaminating environment. Second, it increases the time of exposure to the potential environmental contaminants, thus increasing the probability of incursion. Third, the space between the dial and the portable computer device package is very hard to clean, and attempts to clean it may actually force contaminants into the shaft incursion route and into the interior of the portable computer. 
         [0018]    The conventional art is problematic therefore for two related reasons. First, because attempts to promote ease of use of portable computer devices threaten increased risk of internal exposure thereof to environmental contamination. Second, because attempts to reduce risk of internal exposure of portable computer devices to environmental contamination complicate their use and increase their cost. 
         [0019]    What is needed is a method and/or apparatus that promotes a positive computing experience for users of portable computer systems and/or increases overall durability an War Longevity thereof. What is also needed is a method and/or apparatus that promotes the operational simplicity of portable computer systems. Further, what is needed is a method and/or apparatus that enables efficient portable computer function, field, and data selection, gaming, input, interconnection, and other switching-related functions without exposing the portable computer interior to any degree to incursion of environmental contamination. Further still, what is needed is a method and/or apparatus that achieves the foregoing accomplishments while allowing the full range of both portability and environmental exposure, and range and ease of use characteristic of portable computer devices, yet without complete redesign. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0020]    An apparatus and method are described herein, which simultaneously promote a positive computing experience for users of portable computer systems and increases overall durability and longevity thereof. An apparatus and method are described herein, which also promote the operational simplicity of portable computer systems. Further, an apparatus and method are described herein, which enable efficient portable computer function, field, and data selection, gaming, input, interconnection, and other switching-related functions without exposing the portable computer interior to any degree to incursion of environmental contamination. Further still, an apparatus and method are described herein, which achieve the foregoing accomplishments while allowing the full range of bath portability and environmental exposure, and range and ease of use characteristic of portable computer devices, yet without completely redesigning portable computer system packaging and operation. 
         [0021]    In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to an apparatus and method, which promote a positive computing experience for users of portable computer systems. Simultaneously, the present embodiment promotes overall portable computer device durability and longevity. In the present embodiment, an optical apparatus and a method for using it enhance the experience of a user attempting to compute. Further, the optical apparatus is much more durable and long-lasting than mechanical switch and dial type devices it may replace. 
         [0022]    In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to an apparatus and method, which also promote the operational simplicity of portable computer systems. In the present embodiment, an optical apparatus and method of using it simplify operations such as function, field, and data selection, gaming, input, interconnection, browsing, scrolling, and other switching-related functions. This promotes use of the device while engaged in activities beside computing, enhancing versatility. 
         [0023]    In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to an apparatus and method, which enable efficient portable computer device function, field, and data selection, gaming, input, interconnection, and other switching-related functions without exposing the portable computer interior to any degree to incursion of environmental contamination. In the present embodiment, an optical apparatus obviates openings in portable computer which were conventionally required, in the prior art, for mechanically manipulated switches. Advantageously, this deters encroachment of environmental contaminants into the interior of the portable computer device. 
         [0024]    In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to an apparatus and method, which achieve the foregoing advantages while allowing the full range of both portability and environmental exposure, and range and ease of use characteristic of portable computer devices, yet without completely redesigning portable computer system packaging and operation. The same basic portable computer device package is still applicable. In the present embodiment, an optical apparatus obviating mechanically manipulated switch openings deters incursion of contaminants into portable computer device interiors. With no package redesign, portable computer devices may continue to be deployed in all environments, now with greatly reduced risk of damage and/or contamination. 
         [0025]    These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art after reading the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, which are illustrated in the various drawing figures. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0026]    The accompanying drawings which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention, 
           [0027]      FIG. 1  is a system illustration of a portable computing system connected to other computer systems and the Internet via a cradle device. 
           [0028]      FIG. 2A  is a perspective illustration of the top face of an exemplary portable computer system. 
           [0029]      FIG. 2B  is a perspective illustration of one embodiment of a bottom side of the portable computer system of  FIG. 2A . 
           [0030]      FIG. 3  is a block diagram of exemplary circuitry of a portable computing system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0031]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the cradle device for connecting the portable computing system to other systems via a communication interface. 
           [0032]      FIG. 5A  is a perspective view of the top face of an exemplary portable computer device incorporating an optical user interface, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0033]      FIG. 5B  is a perspective view of the side edge of an exemplary portable computer device incorporating an optical user interface, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0034]      FIG. 5C  is a perspective view of the side edge of an exemplary portable computer device, depicting an array of visually formatted information, including text and highlighted text, on a display screen, and incorporating an optical user interface, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0035]      FIG. 6A  is a concentric top view of an exemplary optical user interface, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0036]      FIG. 6B  is a block diagram of electrical elements of an exemplary optical user interface, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0037]      FIG. 6C  is a block diagram of electrical elements of an exemplary combination optical-electromechanical user interface, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0038]      FIG. 7A  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary combination optical-electromechanical user interface, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0039]      FIG. 7B  is a schematic diagram of en exemplary combination optical-electromechanical user interface, incorporating an exemplary flexible digitizer element, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0040]      FIG. 8  is a flow chart of steps in an exemplary process for implementing an optical user interface for an electronic device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0041]      FIG. 9A  is a flow chart of steps in an exemplary process for implementing a variable optical scan rate, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0042]      FIG. 9B  is a flow chart of steps in an exemplary process for implementing a scan rate power usage protocol, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0043]      FIG. 10  is a flow chart of steps in an exemplary process for changing visually formatted information, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
       
    
    
       [0044]    The drawings referred to in this description should not be understood as being drawn to scale except if specifically noted. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0045]    In the following detailed description of the present invention, an optical sensor based user interface for a handheld device, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be recognized by one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details or with equivalents thereof. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and circuits have not been described in detail as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the present invention. 
       Notation and Nomenclature 
       [0046]    Some portions of the detailed descriptions, which follow, are presented in terms of procedures, steps, logic blocks, processing, and other symbolic representations of operations on data bits that can be performed on computer memory. These descriptions and representations are the means used by those skilled in the electronic, computer, and data processing arts to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. A procedure, computer executed step, logic block, process, etc., is here, and generally, conceived to be a self-consistent sequence of steps or instructions leading to a desired result. The steps are those requiring physical manipulations of physical quantities. Usually, though not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated in a computer system. It has proven convenient at times, principally for reasons of common usage, to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, or the like. 
         [0047]    It should be borne in mind, however, that all of these and similar terms are to be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to these quantities. Unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the following discussions, it is appreciated that throughout the present invention, discussions utilizing terms such as “generating” or “coupling” or “changing” or “scanning” or “sending” or “sensing” or “processing” or “repeating” or “adjusting” or “modifying” or “displaying” or “highlighting” or “scrolling” or “formatting” or “selecting” or “moving” or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system or similar electronic computing device, that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical (electronic) quantities within the computer system&#39;s registers and memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system memories or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices. 
         [0048]    The present invention is discussed in one example in the context of a portable computer system, such as a portable computer device, palmtop computer, or personal digital assistant. However, it is appreciated that the present invention can be used with other types of devices that require user interfacing with a computer, e.g., cell phones, remote control devices, portable web browsers, pagers, etc. 
         [0049]    Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the invention will be described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the invention to these embodiments. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents, which may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, in the following detailed description of the present invention, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. 
         [0050]    Although the optical sensor based user interface of the present invention may be implemented in a variety of different electronic systems such as a pager, a mobile phone, a calculator, a personal digital assistant (PDA), etc., one exemplary embodiment includes the optical sensor based user interface with a portable computing system. It should be understood that the descriptions corresponding to  FIGS. 1-4  provide some general information about an exemplary portable computing system. 
       Exemplary Portable Computer System 
       [0051]      FIG. 1  illustrates a system  50  that may be used in conjunction with an exemplary portable computing device  100 . Specifically, system  50  comprises a host computer system  56  which can either be a desktop unit as shown, or, alternatively, can be a laptop system  58 . Optionally, one or more host computer systems can be used within system  50 . Host computer systems  56  and  58  are shown connected to a communication bus  54 , which in one embodiment can be a serial communication bus, but could be of any of a number of well known communication standards and protocols, e.g., a parallel bus, Ethernet, Local Area Network (LAN), and the like. Optionally, bus  54  can provide communication with the Internet  52  using a number of well known protocols. 
         [0052]    Bus  54  is also coupled to a cradle  60  for receiving and initiating communication with portable computing device  100 . Cradle  60  provides an electrical and mechanical communication interface between bus  54  (and anything coupled to bus  54 ) and the portable computer system  100  for two way communications. Computer system  100  also contains a wireless infrared communication mechanism  64  for sending and receiving information from other devices. 
         [0053]      FIG. 2A  is a perspective illustration of the top face  100   a  of an exemplary portable computer system  100 . The top face  100   a  contains a display screen  105  surrounded by a top cover  110 . A removable stylus  80  is also shown. The display screen  105  is a touch screen able to register contact between the screen and the tip of the stylus  80 . Additionally, the stylus  80  can be fabricated of any material to make contact with the screen  105 . The top face  100   a  also contains one or more dedicated and/or programmable buttons  75  for selecting information and causing the computer system  100  to implement functions. The on/off button  95  is also shown. 
         [0054]      FIG. 2A  also illustrates a handwriting recognition pad or “digitizer” containing two regions  106   a  and  106   b . For example, region  106   a  is for the drawing of alpha characters therein for automatic recognition while region  106   b  is for the drawing of numeric characters therein for automatic recognition. The stylus  80  is used for stroking a character within one of the regions  106   a  and  106   b . The stroke information is then fed to an internal processor for automatic character recognition. Once characters are—recognized, they are typically displayed on the screen  105  for verification and/or modification. 
         [0055]      FIG. 2B  is a perspective illustration of one embodiment of a bottom side  100   b  of portable computer system  100 . An optional extendible antenna  85  is shown and also a battery storage compartment door  90  is shown. A communication interface  108  is also shown. In one embodiment of the present invention, the communication interface  108  is a serial communication port but could also alternatively be of any of a number of well known communication standards and protocols, e.g., parallel, small computer system interface (SCSI), Ethernet, FireWire (IEEE 1394), Universal Serial Bus (USB), etc. 
         [0056]      FIG. 3  is a block diagram of exemplary circuitry of portable computing system  100  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The computer system  100  includes an address/data bus  99  for communicating information, a central processor  101  coupled with the bus  99  for processing information and instructions. It is appreciated that central processor unit  101  may be a microprocessor or any other type of processor. The computer system  100  also includes data storage features such as a volatile memory  102  (e.g., random access memory, static RAM, dynamic RAM, etc.) coupled with the bus  99  for storing information and instructions for the central processor  101  and a non-volatile memory  103  (e.g., read only memory, programmable ROM, flash memory, EPROM, EEPROM, etc.) coupled with the bus  99  for storing static information and instructions for the processor  101 . Computer system  100  may also include an optional data storage device  104  (e.g., thin profile removable memory) coupled with the bus  99  for storing information and instructions. It should be understood that device  104  may be removable. Furthermore, device  104  may also be a secure digital (SD) card-reader or equivalent removable memory reader. 
         [0057]    Also included in computer system  100  of  FIG. 3  is an alphanumeric input device  106  which in one implementation is a handwriting recognition pad (“digitizer”) and may include integrated push buttons in one embodiment Device  106  can communicate information (spatial data and pressure data) and command selections to the central processor  101 . The digitizer  106  records both the (x, y) coordinate value of the current location of the stylus  80  and also simultaneously records the pressure that the stylus  80  exerts on the face of the digitizer pad  106 . The coordinate values (spatial information) and pressure data are then output on separate channels for sampling by the processor  101 . In one implementation, there are roughly 256 different discrete levels of pressure that can be detected by the digitizer  106 . Since the digitizer&#39;s channels are sampled serially by the processor  101 , the stroke spatial data are sampled “pseudo” simultaneously with the associated pressure data. The sampled data is then stored in a memory by the processor  101  for later analysis. 
         [0058]    System  100  of  FIG. 3  also includes an optional cursor control or directing device  107  coupled to the bus  99  for communicating user input information and command selections to the central processor  101 . In one implementation, device  107  is a touch screen device (also a digitizer) incorporated with screen  105 . Device  107  is capable of registering a position on the screen  105  where the stylus  80  makes contact and the pressure of the contact. The digitizer of  106  or  107  may be implemented using well known devices, for instance, using the ADS-7846 device by Buff-Brown that provides separate channels for spatial stroke information and pressure information. 
         [0059]    Computer system  100  also contains a flat panel display device  105  coupled to the bus  99  for displaying information to the computer user. The display device  105  utilized with the computer system  100  may be a liquid crystal device (LCD), cathode ray tube (CRT), field emission device (FED, also called flat panel CRT), plasma or other display technology suitable for creating graphic images and alphanumeric characters recognizable to the user. In one embodiment, the display  105  is a flat panel multi-mode display capable of both monochrome and color display modes. 
         [0060]    Also included in computer system  100  of  FIG. 3  is a signal communication device  108  coupled to bus  99  that may be a serial port (or USB port) for enabling system  100  to communicate with the cradle  60 . As mentioned above, in one embodiment, the communication interface  108  is a serial communication port, but could also alternatively be of any of a number of well known communication standards and protocols, e.g., parallel, SCSI, Ethernet, FireWire (IEEE 1394), USB, etc. In addition to device  108 , wireless communication links can be established between the device  100  and a host computer system (or another portable computer system) using a Bluetooth wireless device  112 , an infrared (IR) device  64 , or a Global System for Messaging (GSM) radio device  114 . System  100  may also include a wireless modem device  114  and/or a wireless radio, e.g., a GSM wireless radio with supporting chip set. The wireless modem device  114  is coupled to communicate with the central processor  101  but may not be directly coupled to port  108 . 
         [0061]    In one implementation, the Mobitex wireless communication system may be used to provide two way communication between computer system  100  and other networked computers and/or the Internet (e.g., via a proxy server). In other embodiments, transmission control protocol (TCP) can be used or Short Message Service (SMS) can be used. System  100  of  FIG. 3  may also contain batteries for providing electrical power. 
         [0062]    In one embodiment, Optical User Interface  75  is coupled to Processor  101  by bus  99 . In one embodiment, processor  101  sends an optical signal generation demand signal  770  to optical user interface  75 . In the present embodiment, optical user interface  75  generates an optical signal  555  accordingly. Signal  770 , in one embodiment, controls the optical scan rate of optical user interface  75 . After a user interaction, optical signal  555  is redetected by optical user interface  75 , which generates a corresponding interface signal  771 , which is sent to processor  101 , in one embodiment, with a scan rate power usage signal  772 . In one implementation, optical user interface  75  interacts with display device  105  for control of the exhibition of visually formatted information. In one embodiment, optical user interface  75  interacts with on-screen cursor control  107  and display device  105  for control and positioning of an on-screen cursor. In one embodiment, optical user interface  75  interacts with digitizer  106 . In one embodiment, digitizer  106  is a mechanically flexible and optically transparent pad, enabling both optical and mechanical user interaction via optical user interface  75 , in an optical-electromechanical user interaction enabling implementation. In one embodiment, the optical user interaction is controlled by a program implemented by computer readable and executable instructions distributed to varying degrees in various implementations between processor  101 , RAM  102 , ROM  103 , and storage device  104 . 
         [0063]      FIG. 4  is a perspective illustration of one embodiment of the cradle  60  for receiving the portable computer system  100 . The cradle  60  contains a mechanical and electrical interface  260  for interfacing with communication interlace  108  ( FIG. 2B ) of computer system  100  when system  100  is slid into the cradle  60  in an upright position. Once inserted, button  270  can be pressed to initiate two way communication between portable computer system  100  and other computer systems coupled to communication bus  54 . 
       Exemplary User Interfaces 
     Exemplary Optical User Interfaces 
       [0064]      FIG. 5A  is a perspective illustration of the top face  100   a  of one embodiment of a palmtop computer system  100 , that can be used with the present invention. Optical user interface  75  is depicted as mounted, in one embodiment, in the center of the lower portion of top face  100   a , below screen  105  and digitizer  106 . In one embodiment, optical user interface  75  interacts with digitizer  106 , and may be mounted beneath it. In the present embodiment, digitizer  106  is a mechanically flexible and optically transparent pad, enabling both optical and mechanical user interaction via optical user interface  75 , in an optical-electromechanical user interaction enabling implementation. 
         [0065]    It is appreciated that the position depicted for optical user interface  75  herein is not intended to be limiting. For example, optical user interface  75  may be mounted in any user accessible position on system  100 . Such positions are illustrated, for example only, and not limited to, possible other positions  75   p.    
         [0066]    In  FIG. 5B , a perspective illustration of the side edge of exemplary system  100  is depicted. Optical User interface  75  is depicted, for example only, and not limited, in a position low on the upper face  100   a . Lower face  100   b  is depicted opposite to upper face  100   a , for perspective. 
         [0067]    In  FIG. 5C , a perspective of the top face  100   a  of one embodiment of a palmtop computer system  100 , that can be used with the present invention. Optical user interface  75  is depicted as mounted, in one embodiment, in the center of the lower portion of top face  100   a , below screen  105  and digitizer  106 . In one embodiment, optical user interface  75  interacts with digitizer  106 , and may be mounted beneath it. 
         [0068]    Screen  105  displays an exemplary array of visually formatted information  105   d . In the present example, the array of visually formatted information  105   d  includes text. It is appreciated that array of visually formatted information  105   d  is not limited to text, but may include graphics, combinations of text and graphics, and any other visually formatted information. In the present example, the text constituting array of visually formatted information  105   d  is a portion of an imaginary telephone list including names and corresponding telephone numbers, a common and useful portable computer system feature. It is appreciated that the text constituting array of visually formatted information  105   d  may include any textual information not to be construed as delimited by the present example. In the present example, the text constituting array of visually formatted information  105   d  includes a highlighted portion  105   h . Highlighted portions of text or other forms of visually formatted information may be used to focus a user&#39;s attention, to target data for selection, and other purposes. In one embodiment, highlighting can be moved through scrolling. In one embodiment, highlighting and scrolling may be performed by a user interacting with system  100  through manipulation of optical user interface  75 . 
         [0069]    Referring to  FIG. 6A , a detailed concentric top view of an exemplary optical user interface  75 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, is described. A transparent covering  75 . 1  covers optical user interface  75 . 
         [0070]    In one embodiment, transparent covering  75 . 1  is flexible and mounted beneath digitizer  106 , which, in the present embodiment, is flexible and transparent, likewise. In one embodiment, transparent covering  75 . 1  forms a part of flexible and transparent digitizer  106 . In one embodiment, flexible and transparent digitizer  106  constitutes transparent covering  75 . 1 . In one embodiment, flexible and transparent digitizer  106  is embedded within transparent cover  75 . 1  (e.g., as depicted in  FIG. 7B ). In any of the present embodiments, digitizer  106  is a mechanically flexible and optically transparent pad, enabling both optical and mechanical user interaction via optical user interface  75 , in an optical-electromechanical user interaction enabling implementation. 
         [0071]    Importantly, transparent covering  75 . 1  covers optical user interface  75 , yet allows optical interaction with a user. Further, transparent covering  75 . 1  seals optical user interface  75 , and system  100  about optical user interface  75 . Advantageously, this prevents the incursion of environmental contaminants to seals optical user interface  75 , and system  100 . Optical user interlace enclosure  75 . 2  forms a package about optical user interface  75  optical and electrical components to be described next. 
         [0072]    Optical user interface package foundation  752  mounts an optical source  75 . 4  and an optical sensor  75 . 5 . Further, optical user interlace package foundation  75 . 3  forms an optical portal  75 . 6 , such as an optically transmissive channel with precisely reflective and focusing contours capable of coupling optical source  75 . 4  and an optical sensor  75 . 5 . 
         [0073]    In one embodiment, optical sensor  75 . 5  is a solid state photosensitive electro-optical device which generates an electrical output corresponding to an optical input. In one embodiment, optical sensor  75 . 5  is a quantum photodetector. In one embodiment, optical sensor  75 . 5  is a radiometer. In one embodiment, optical sensor  75 . 5  is a pyroelectric detector. In one embodiment, optical sensor  75 . 5  works photoconductively. In one embodiment, optical sensor  75 . 5  works photovoltaically. 
         [0074]    In one embodiment, optical source  75 . 4  is a light emitting diode (LED). In one embodiment, optical source  75 . 4  is a laser diode (LD). In one embodiment, optical source  75 . 4  is a quantum dot. For simplicity, optical source  75 . 4  will herein be referred to as an exemplary LED  75 . 4 . LED  75 . 4  and optical detector  75 . 5  operate at frequencies which enable their interoperation and coupling. In one embodiment, optical user interface operation is at visible wavelengths. In one embodiment, optical user interface  75  operation is in the infrared. In one implementation, operation of the optical user interlace  75  is in the near infrared. 
         [0075]    Optical portal  75 . 6  couples LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5  in such a way that a user interaction, such as touching transparent covering  75 . 1 , optically modifies the optical coupling between LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5 . Optically coupled scanning between LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5  occurs at a rate controlled by processor  101  ( FIG. 3 ). Optically coupled scanning between LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5  enables detection of commencement, progression, development and modification, and termination of interactions with users. 
         [0076]    In one embodiment, the user touches transparent covering  75 . 1 . The touch may be implemented by the user&#39;s thumb or fingertips, for example. In one embodiment, the changes in optical coupling between LED  75 . 4  and optical detector  75 . 5  corresponding to the touch and detected by scanning result in the generation of an interaction signal (interaction signal  771 ;  FIG. 6B ). In one embodiment, the optical coupling between LED  75 . 4  and optical detector  75 . 5  corresponding to the touch and detected by scanning can be further, stochastically, and/or continually changed by the user varying the touch to transparent cover  75 . 1 , for example, by movement of the thumb or fingertips touching transparent cover  75 . 1  This correspondingly results in the optical scanning tracking the user transaction and further generating an interaction signal  771  accordingly transmitting the scan-tracking information to processor  101 . Processor  101  may process the information to generate programmatic response. Scan rates may be variable, in one embodiment. In the present embodiment, variable scan rates may implement a scan rate power usage protocol, transmitted by scan rate power usage signals  772 . It is appreciated that the optical user interface  75  may also, in one embodiment, enable further and/or other user interaction by, for example, an electromechanical modality. 
         [0077]    In  FIG. 63 , the optical and electrical interrelationship  75 E between elements constituting optical user interface  75 , system bus  99 , and processor  101  are depicted. Optical user interface package foundation  75 . 3  mounts and electrically interconnects LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5 . 
         [0078]    Optical user interface package foundation  75 . 3  mounts LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5  in such a configuration as to delineate optical portal  75 . 6 , optically coupling LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5 . LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5  are optically coupled through optical portal  75 . 6  such that optical signal  655 , emitted by LED  75 . 4 , may be detected by optical sensor  75 . 5 . 
         [0079]    Optical user interface sub-bus  75 . 9  electrically interconnects LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5 , through optical user interface packaging foundation  75 . 3 , to bus  99 , which is electrically interconnected with processor  101 . Signals interflow between these elements as follows. 
         [0080]    Optical signal generation demand signal  770 , generated by processor  101 , flows over busses  99  and  75 . 9 , through optical user interface packaging foundation  75 . 3  interconnection, to LED  75 . 4 , stimulating LED  75 . 4  to emit optical signal  555  accordingly. Processor  101  thus controls signal  555  and corresponding optical scanning via optical portal  75 . 6 . Interface signal  771 , generated by optical. sensor  75 . 5  responsive to detection and conversion of optical signal  555 , flows through optical user interface packaging foundation  75 . 3  interconnection, over busses  75 . 9  and  99 , sequentially, to processor  101 . Processor  101  processes interface signal  771  programmatically. 
         [0081]    Further, in one embodiment, processor  101  controls the optical scan rate employed by optical user interface  75  ( FIG. 6A ) by and according to scan rate power usage signal  772 . Scan rate power usage signal  772  transmits information corresponding to the scan rate power usage from optical user interface  75  to processor  101 , and transmits responsive scan rate control from processor  101  to optical user interface  75 . 
         [0082]    In one embodiment, optical user interface  75  functions as an optical sensor operable to sense movement of an object over a surface thereof, and a processor is responsive to said optical sensor for altering said selected item according to said movement, In one embodiment, optical user interface  75  functions as an optical sensor operable to sense tactile contact of said object with said surface. In one embodiment˜optical user interface  75  functions as an optical sensor operable to sense the speed of said movement of said object. In one embodiment, optical user interface  75  functions as an optical sensor operable to sense the direction of said movement of said object. In the present embodiment, control circuitry coupled to optical user interface  75  is operable to vary a rate at which optical sensor  75 . 5  is scanned in response to detected user activity. 
         [0083]    Processor  101 , in the present embodiment, is responsive to optical sensor  75 . 5  sensing user interactive movement at a first speed to perform a first display update of the array of visually formatted information (e.g., text  105 . d ;  FIG. 50 ) Further, processor  101  is responsive to optical sensor  75 . 5  sensing user interactive movement at a second speed to perform a second update of said Information. In the present embodiment, this enables coarse scroll operation, in the first processor response, and a fine scroll operation in the second. The user&#39;s finger may establish the optical contact with optical user interface  75  to implement these interactions. 
       Exemplary Optical-Electromechanical User Interfaces 
       [0084]    With reference to  FIG. 6C , the optical and electrical interrelationship 7SEM between elements of an exemplary combination optical-electromechanical user interface  75   m  is depicted, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Optical user interface package foundation  75 . 3  mounts LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5  in such a configuration as to delineate optical portal  75 . 6 , optically coupling LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5 . LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5  are optically coupled through optical portal  75 . 6  such that optical signal  555 , emitted by LED  75 . 4 , may be detected by optical sensor  75 . 5 . Optical user interface sub-bus  75 . 9  electrically interconnects LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5 , through optical user interface packaging foundation  75 . 3 , to user interface mid-bus  859 , which is electrically interconnected through bus  99  with processor  101 . 
         [0085]    User interface opto-electromechanical package foundation  803  mounts optical user interface module  75 , and contains an electromechanical user interface enabling device such as a switch or dial (e.g., switch  804 ,  FIGS. 7A and 7B ). User interface electromechanical package foundation  803  electrically interconnects the electromechanical user interface (e.g., switch  804 ,  FIGS. 7A and 7B ) contained within it via electromechanical interface sub-bus  809   b  to user interface mid-bus  859 , which is electrically interconnected through bus  99  with processor  101 , and transmits electromechanical interface signal  866  thereon. 
         [0086]    With reference to  FIG. 7A , an exemplary combination optical-electromechanical user interface enables several modalities of user interaction, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. An electronic device, in the present illustration, exemplary portable computer system  100 , has a top face  100   a  and a bottom face  100   b . Embedded within and sealing top face  100   a  is transparent cover  75 . 1 . 
         [0087]    Transparent cover  75 . 1  covers optical user interface enclosure  75 . 2  which contains optical user interface package foundation  75 . 3  mount in 9 LED  75 . 4  and optical sensor  75 . 5  ( FIG. 6 ). Further, optical user interface package foundation  75 . 3  forms an optical portal  75 . 6  ( FIG. 6C ), such as an optically transmissive channel with precisely reflective and focusing contours capable of coupling optical source  75 . 4  ( FIG. 6C ) and an optical sensor  75 . 5  ( FIG. 6C ). Optical user interface enclosure  75 . 2  forms a package about optical user interface  75  optical and electrical components ( FIG. 6C ). Optical user interface  75  ( FIGS. 6B and 6C ) generates an optical interface signal  711  ( FIG. 6B ). 
         [0088]    Mounting optical user interface (e.g., optical user interface  75 ;  FIG. 6C ) components  75 . 1 ,  75 . 2 , and  75 . 3 , opto-electromechanical package foundation  803  also houses electromechanical user interface enabling components including, in the present embodiment, a switch assembly  804 . 
         [0089]    Switch assembly  804  contains a lower, foundational and non-moving base  802   b , fixedly mounted on the upper (e.g., inner) surface of base  110   b  (e.g., internal to exemplary computer  100 ). Base  802   b  mounts a set of fixed electrical contacts  801   b . An upper plug  802   a  mounts movable electrical contacts  801   a , is spring supported and guided by spring assembly  823 . Upper plug  802   a  and contacts  801   a  move up and down in switch assembly  804  in such a way as to respond to the interaction of a user, for example, pressing down on transparent cover  75 . 1 , and make and break contact between movable contacts  801   a  and fixed contacts  801   b  accordingly. 
         [0090]    Upon contact by a sufficiently forcible user interaction, movable contacts  801   a  will make and wipe sufficiently on and over fixed contacts  801   b  to ensure a correspondingly sufficient electrical contact. The making and breaking of movable contacts  801   a  and fixed contacts  801   b  in response to a mechanical user interaction generate an electromechanical user interface signal  866  ( FIG. 6C ). 
         [0091]    Optical user interface signal  771  flows on optical user interface sub-bus  75 . 9  ( FIG. 6B ). Electromechanical user interface signal  866  ( FIG. 6C ) flows on electromechanical sub-bus  809   b . Sub-busses  75 . 9  and  809   b  are electrically interconnected with user interface mid-bus  859 . User interface mid-bus  859  is electrically interconnected with bus  99  ( FIGS. 3 ,  6 C), enabling optical and electromechanical interface signals  771  and  866 , respectively, to be sent to processor  101  ( FIGS. 3 and 6C ), and control signals to flow from processor  101  back to the user interfaces  76  and  75   m  ( FIG. 6C ). 
         [0092]    Referring now to  FIG. 7B , one embodiment of the present invention is depicted, wherein digitizer  106  is also flexible and transparent. In all other respects, the elements depicted in  FIG. 7B  are identical in form and function with those depicted in  FIG. 7A . In the present embodiment, digitizer  106  is integrated with transparent cover  75 . 1 . In the present embodiment, the transparency of digitizer  106 , and its proximity to optical user interface package foundation  75 . 3 , enables an interaction with a user for exemplary system  100  via the optical user interface (e.g., optical user interface  75 ;  FIG. 6C ). Further, the flexibility of digitizer  106 , and its proximity to and mechanical integration with opto-electromechanical package foundation  803 , enables an interaction with a user for exemplary system  100  via the electromechanical user interface (e.g., electromechanical user interface  75   m ;  FIG. 6C ). 
         [0093]    In the present embodiment, flexible and transparent digitizer  106  is embedded within transparent cover  75 . 1  (e.g., as depicted in  FIG. 7B ). In one embodiment, transparent covering  75 . 1  is flexible and mounted beneath digitizer  106 , which, in the present embodiment, is flexible and transparent, likewise. In one embodiment, transparent covering  75 . 1  forms a part of flexible and transparent digitizer  106 . In one embodiment, flexible and transparent digitizer  106  constitutes transparent covering  75 . 1 . In any of these embodiments, digitizer  106  is a mechanically flexible and optically transparent pad, enabling both optical and mechanical user interaction via optical user interface  75  ( FIG. 6C ) and electromechanical user interface  75   m  ( FIG. 6C ), in an optical-electromechanical user interaction enabling implementation. Digitizer sub-bus  106 . 1  is electrically interconnected with bus  99 , interconnecting digitizer  106  with processor  101  ( FIG. 3 ). 
       Exemplary Processes 
       [0094]      FIGS. 8 ,  9 A,  9 B, and  10  are flowcharts of the steps performed in processes  800 ,  900 A,  900 B, and  1000 , respectively, each individually in accordance with single, separate individual embodiments of the present invention, as discussed separately below. Flowcharted processes  800 ,  900 A,  900 B, and  1000  each include a single, separate, individual process of the present invention which, in each embodiment, are carried out by processors and electrical components under the control of computer readable and computer executable instructions. The computer readable and computer executable instructions reside, for example, in data storage features such as within processor  101 , computer usable volatile memory  102 , computer usable non-volatile memory  103 , and/or data storage device  104 , all of  FIG. 3 . However, the computer readable and computer executable instructions may reside In any type of computer readable medium. Although specific steps are disclosed in each of flowcharts  800 ,  900 A,  900 B, and  1000 , such steps are exemplary. That is, the present invention is well suited to performing various other steps or variations of the steps recited in  FIGS. 8 ,  9 A,  9 B, and  10 . Within these present embodiments, it should be appreciated that the steps of flowcharts  800 ,  900 A,  900 B, and  1000  may be performed by software or hardware or any combination of software and hardware. 
       Exemplary Process for User Interaction 
       [0095]    Referring to  FIG. 8 , the steps in a process  800  enable the interaction of a user with a system (e.g., exemplary system  100 ;  FIGS. 1 ,  3 ,  5 A,  5 B,  7 A, and  7 B)-using an optical user interface (e.g.,  75 ;  FIGS. 2A ,  3 ,  5 A,  5 B,  6 A,  6 B,  6 C), in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Beginning with step  801 , an optical signal (e.g., optical signal  555 ;  FIGS. 6B and 6C ) is demanded by a processor (e.g., processor  101 ;  FIGS. 3 ,  6 B, and  6 C). The demand may be by a demand signal (e.g.,  770 ;  FIG. 6B ). 
         [0096]    In step  802 , an optical signal (e.g., optical signal  555 ;  FIGS. 6B and 6C ) is generated responsive to the demand (step  801 ). The optical signal is generated by an optical source (e.g., optical source  75 . 4 ;  FIGS. 6A ,  6 B, and  6 C), which in one embodiment, is an LED. 
         [0097]    In step  803 , the optical signal is coupled from the optical source into an optical portal (e.g., optical portal  75 . 6 ;  FIGS. 6A ,  6 B, and  6 C). 
         [0098]    The optical portal is scanned; step  804 . Scanning 1  in one embodiment, may be performed by an optical sensor (e.g., optical detector  75 . 5 ;  FIGS. 6A ,  6 B, and  6 C). 
         [0099]    Scanning the optical portal (step  804 ) enables the detection of a user interaction; step  805 . If no user interaction is detected, process  800  loops back to demanding an optical signal (step  801 ), and the process repeats itself. 
         [0100]    If, however, a user interaction is detected in step  805 , the optical coupling characteristics of the optical portal are changed by the interaction of the user. This results in a corresponding change in the optical coupling characteristics of the optical portal coupling the source and detector; step  807 . 
         [0101]    Any change in optical coupling results in the generation of an interface signal in step  808 . 
         [0102]    Interface signals are sent to a processor (e.g., processor  101 ;  FIGS. 3 ,  6 B, and  6 C); step  809 . The interface signals may be sent via an interconnecting bus (e.g., bus  99 ;  FIGS. 3 ,  6 B, and  6 C). 
         [0103]    In step  810 , the processor processes the interface signal as information, and process  800  loops back to the step of demanding an optical signal (step  801 ). 
       Exemplary Scan Rate Adjustment Process 
       [0104]    Referring to  FIG. 9A , the steps in a process  900 A are depicted wherein the scanning rate of an optical user interface is automatically adjusted, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Beginning with step  901 , the optical user interface (OUI) (e.g., OUI  75 ;  FIGS. 3 ,  6 A,  6 B, and  6 C) under the control of a processor (e.g., processor  101 ;  FIGS. 3 ,  6 B, and  6 C), scans at a first, relatively slow rate. 
         [0105]    If no interaction with a user is detected in step  902 , process  900 A continues the scanning at the first rate. 
         [0106]    If however, an interaction with a user is detected in step  902 , the activation of a user interaction is sensed; step  903 . 
         [0107]    Upon detecting activation of a user interaction (step  903 ), the scan rate is increased accordingly to an initial, relatively higher rate; step  904 . 
         [0108]    In step  905 , the speed with which the user interaction is occurring and/or varying (for example, the relative speed and any speed variation with which the user&#39;s thumb passes, rubs, or flicks over the transparent cover of the optical portal, e.g., cover  75 . 1  and portal  75 . 6 , respectively;  FIGS. 6A ,  6 B, and  6 C) is detected. If no variation in the speed with which the user interaction is occurring is detected, process  900 A loops back to step  904 , and continues to scan at the initial second rate. 
         [0109]    If, however, a variation in the speed with which the user interaction is occurring is detected in step  905 , the scan rate is adjusted accordingly; step  906 . Further, the speed with which the user interaction is occurring and/or varying is continually monitored, process  900 A looping back to step  905 . 
         [0110]    This continues as long as no interruption in the user interaction is detected in step  907 . If an interruption in the user interaction is detected in step  907 , process  900 A loops back to step  901 , with scanning resumed at the relatively slow first scan rate. In one embodiment, process  900 A enables implementation of a scan rate power usage protocol. 
       Exemplary Scan Rate Power Usage Information Process 
       [0111]    In one embodiment, a process  900 B enables a processor (e.g., processor  101 ;  FIGS. 3 ,  6 B, and  6 C) to receive information regarding power usage by optical scanning processes (e.g., process  900 A;  FIG. 9A ). 
         [0112]    Process  900 B begins with step  910 , wherein a fixed power usage signal is generated corresponding to a first scan rate (e.g., a relatively low initial scan rate, such as that scan rate generated instep  901 ;  FIG. 9A ). 
         [0113]    Power usage signals generated in step  910  is sent to a processor; step  940 . 
         [0114]    In step  920 , the scan rate is monitored, if scanning continues at the first scan rate (e.g., no user interaction is detected, as for example in step  902 ;  FIG. 9A ), the corresponding power usage signal continues to be generated, process  900 B looping back to step  910 . 
         [0115]    If scanning at a second rate is detected in step  920 , a variable power usage signal corresponding to the second scan rate and its changes is generated; step  930 . 
         [0116]    Power usage signals generated in step  920  is sent to a processor; step  940 . 
         [0117]    Power usage signals and corresponding control signals (e.g., signals  772 ;  FIG. 6B ) enable implementation of a scan rate power usage protocol. 
       Exemplary Process for Display Control 
       [0118]    With reference to  FIG. 10 , a process  1000  enables the control of visually formatted information displayed on a screen (e.g., display screen  105 ;  FIGS. 2A ,  3 , and  5 A). Beginning with step  1010 , a user manipulates an optical user interface (e.g., OUI  75 ;  FIGS. 3 ,  5 A,  53 ,  6 A,  6 B, and  6 C) according to the user&#39;s intent to vary visibly formatted information on the display screen. 
         [0119]    The optical characteristics of the optical user interface are changed accordingly; step  1020 . 
         [0120]    Resultantly, a display change signal is generated; step  1030 . Generating a display change signal may be a combination and interaction between integrated activities conducted by different system elements. 
         [0121]    Upon changing optical characteristics in the optical user interface (step  1020 ), a corresponding interface signal (e.g., signal  771 ;  FIG. 6B ) is generated and sent to the processor (e.g., processor  101 ;  FIGS. 3 ,  6 B, and  6 C). The processor programmatically responds to the interface signal by generating a responsive display control signal, which is transmitted to the display device to change the array of visibly formatted information thereon accordingly; step  1040 . The programmatic response may be controlled by the processor under the direction of software or data stored, to varying degrees, in the processor itself, in memory, an and/or in a data storage device (e.g., RAM  102 , ROM  103 , and/or storage  104 , respectively;  FIG. 3 ). If a cursor and/or scrolling, for example (discussed below in steps  1060  through  1075 ), is included in the array of visually formatted information displayed on the screen, an cursor controller (e.g., cursor control  107 ;  FIG. 3 ) may also be involved. 
         [0122]    In step  1050 , it is determined if the user intends to change the highlighting of any portion of the array of visually formatted information, by which portions of the array may be designated or selected for change of selection of displayed information, or a scrolling function. If so, the portion to be highlighted is selected by optical user interfacing; step  1051 . 
         [0123]    The highlighting (e.g., the highlighted region of the array of visually formatted information on the display), or the highlighting itself, is moved; step  1052 . At this point, process  1000  may be complete. 
         [0124]    If no highlighting was determined for selection (step  1050 ), it is determined if the user intends to change the positioning of a cursor appearing within the array of visually formatted information, by which the attention and action of the user may be directed and/or focused; step  1060 . If so, the position for placement of the cursor is selected by optical user interfacing instep  1061 . 
         [0125]    The cursor is thus moved to the designated location within the array of visually formatted information; step  1062 . At this point, process  1000  may be complete. 
         [0126]    If no cursor positioning was selected (step  1060 ), it is determined in step  1070  if the visually formatted information array is to be scrolled. If not, process  1000  may be complete. 
         [0127]    If scrolling is designated (step  1060 ), scrolling is initiated and controlled by optical user interfacing; step  1075 . At this point, process  1000  is complete. 
         [0128]    An embodiment of the present invention, an optical sensor based user interface for a handheld device is thus described. While the present invention has been described in particular embodiments, it should be appreciated that the present invention should not be construed as limited by such embodiments, but rather construed according to the below claims.