I think the term is too diverse to be eligible for a patent..It's like suggesting to patent the idea of "Using timber based materials to provide a surface".
If it was a specific application then I suppose it is possible but, considering Microsoft have dabbled with Surface (Multi Touch Display) which utilises IR technology, to provide a surface... I would be surprised if they havn't already got something. IF they have, then I am sure it will show to be as a specific as can allow, IF NOT then I would suggest it is because they can't patent it for the diversity... which would explain why others have imitated the technology and application.
I could be wrong, just my two cents on the question.