Tray mounted cursor control input device for integration with computer keyboard
US7199792B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 20, 2001 |
| Grant date | Apr 3, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 16, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F3/0362
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A pointing device for use with a keyboard functions like a computer mouse. It incorporates a plurality of configurable function keys. The pointing device is composed of a rolling surface capable of rotation and translation that may activate a switch when it is depressed. An optical sensor monitors the rotation and translation of the rolling surface and translates that motion into communications interpretable by a mouse software driver. An edge sensor allows repositioning of the rolling surface without cursor movement when limits of travel are reached. The pointing device communicates with the computer through a serial communication facility such as a PS/2 or USB connection. The enclosure containing the rolling surface incorporates an aperture allowing a portion of the rolling surface to be available for manipulation, an elevated support surface for the keyboard and provision for palm rests.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.