Control axis mounted computer interface for coordinate measuring machines
US5418730A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 16, 1993 |
| Grant date | May 23, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 16, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01B21/047
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A computer interface device for a coordinate measuring machine comprises a trackball that transmits perpendicular movement signals to a computer in response to corresponding perpendicular tangential movement of the trackball. The computer is interconnected with the coordinate measuring machine and normally receives measurement data corresponding to a location of a probe on the computer. The trackball is located adjacent the probe so that a user grasping the probe can manipulate the trackball to transmit data manipulation signals to the computer. Typically, the trackball moves a cursor about the computer screen. A plurality of data entry buttons are included on the interface device and enable the user to execute computer procedures selected by the cursor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.