Touch/Proximity Sensor

  
   

The QT113 Touch/Proximity sensor IC can detect the presence of a hand through several inches of glass. We will use these to enable interaction between our exhibits and museum visitors, without the mechanical failures that often plague physical switches in such heavy-use, public venues.

  

schematic diagram

 
  
For greater detail, read the application note published by Parallax,Inc., and the QT113 datasheet put out by Quantum Research Group, the device's manufacturer.