Ratchet structure for input device
US7012594B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 30, 2002 |
| Grant date | Mar 14, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 26, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F3/0362
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A Z-axis device for an input device has a rotatable roller having a first side and a second side, the second side of the roller having a plurality of grooves. The Z-axis device also has a support mechanism that positions the roller for reciprocating pivoting movement, a first axle extending from the first side of the roller and supported by the support mechanism, and a second axle extending from the second side of the roller and supported by the support mechanism. The second axle has a resilient element coupled thereto, with the resilient element constantly engaging one of the grooves, and engaging different grooves as the roller is rotated.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.