Hand manipulatable computer input device
US5287089A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 13, 1992 |
| Grant date | Feb 15, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 13, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F3/0338
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The computer input device includes an elastic actuator button of generally hemispheric shape. An applied force causing an indentation in a curved portion of the button is transmitted via the material of the button to cause a corresponding elastic bulging of a bottom, normally flat portion of the button and of a conductive film and resistive film which are attached thereto. During such bulging, a portion of the resistive film is urged into contact simultaneously with two or three oppositely disposed conductive traces. This action can cause a cursor to be moved in a direction corresponding to the direction of force of the push when the device is attached to the proper circuitry. The amount of pressure applied to and transmitted through the elastic material of the button determines the size of the area of contact between the resistive film and the pattern of conductive traces and, ultimately, the speed and/or distance of movement of the cursor in that direction. A central post may protrude from the bottom of the button into a corresponding depression or hole in the base of the device so as to act as a contact or actuator for a separate switch so as to provide a function separately fro…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.