Mouse with cantilevered roller
US6798397B2 · kind B2 · utility
14Cited by
8References
21Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 15, 2001 |
| Grant date | Sep 28, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 15, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F3/0362
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A roller for an input device extends through a slot in a top housing and is supported by a cantilevered arm. The roller is attached at the end of the arm and rotates about a shaft mounted on the cantilevered arm. The cantilevered arm is attached proximate the rear of the top housing, and thus is free to flex when the roller is depressed. As a result, when pressure is applied to the roller, the roller depresses through the slot in the top housing independently from the buttons on the top housing. The cantilevered arm has a spring force to bias the roller upward, eliminating the need for a return spring (lift spring).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.