Absolute coordinate, single user-interface element pointing device
US7538758B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 30, 2005 |
| Grant date | May 26, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 5, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F3/0421
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A pointing device includes a single control element to provide a user with absolute coordinate information and to enable user control of a computer cursor and emulation of mouse clicks. User movement of the single control element in an (x-y) plane preferably moves an optically reflective surface relative to an optical sensor system stationary within the device housing, such movement precluding rotation relative to the (x-y) plane. Mouse clicking may be emulated by moving the single control element up or down and/or by tilting relative to the (x-y) plane. Alternatively mouse clicking may be emulated by user activation of left and right sensor type switches or sensors. The device may be used by handicapped persons who can control cursor movement and mouse clicking using the single control element.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.