Pliable proximity switch assembly and activation method

A method of activating a proximity switch comprising:

• generating an activation field associated with a proximity sensor comprising first and second fixed electrodes;
• monitoring a signal indicative of the activation field;
• determining a first stable amplitude when the signal is stable for a minimum time period due to user interaction;
• determining a subsequent second stable amplitude of the signal for a second time period;
• and
• generating an activation output when the second stable amplitude exceeds a first stable amplitude by a known amount indicative of a user depressing on a pliable material overlaying the proximity sensor.

A proximity switch assembly comprising:

• a proximity sensor comprising first and second fixed electrodes for generating an activation field;
• a non-conductive pliable material overlaying the proximity sensor;
• and
• control circuitry monitoring the activation field and determining an activation of a proximity switch based on a signal generated by the sensor in relation to a threshold when a user's finger compresses the non-conductive pliable material and moves towards the proximity sensor.