Introduction

 

The sense of touch is an important sensory channel in many animals and some plants. Our senses inform to us when our hands touch something. Computer input devices are indifferent to human contact as there is no reaction from software in the event of making, maintaining or breaking physical contact like touches or releases. Thus, touch sensing input devices offers numerous possibilities for novel interaction techniques. Touch sensor technology is slowly replacing the mechanical objects like mouse and keyboard.
A touch sensor detects touch or near proximity without relying on physical contact. Touch sensors are making their way into many applications like mobile phones, remote controls, control panels, etc. Present day touch sensors can replace mechanical buttons and switches. Touch sensors with simple rotational sliders, touch pads and rotary wheels offer significant advantages for more intuitive user interfaces. Touch sensors are more convenient and more reliable to use without moving parts. The use of touch sensors provides great freedom to the system designer and help in reducing the overall cost of the system. The overall look of the system can be more appealing and contemporary.