Input device with pattern and tactile feedback for computer input and control
US6967642B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 31, 2001 |
| Grant date | Nov 22, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 28, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S345/902
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The tactile input device is a user interface selection device used to transmit user information to a user interface interpretation module. The tactile input device allows a user to activate and operate applications running on a computing system through a single user interface selection device. The tactile input device includes a tactile surface angularly divided into a plurality of sections, or petals. The tactile surface is further separated by a central portion and an outer circumferential portion, neither of which are angularly divided by the petals. Each petal and portion are tactilely distinguished from an adjacent petal or portion. The tactile distinction provides a user with feedback relating to orientation over the surface such that the user may request the performance of a specific task to be implemented by the computer through the user interface interpretation module.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.