Thumb actuated X-Y input device

Abstract

Various x-y input devices are disclosed that are adapted to allow a user to hold and operate the input device with a stress-reducing, open grip posture with the thumb pointing forward and on top of the device. One preferred embodiment discloses an input device for a computer comprising an x-y input sensor (such as a touchpad) positioned perpendicular to the thumb such that the user provides input with the thumb tip by using pivotal movement of the thumb. Various stress-reducing zero force touch switches are disclosed including zero force touch switches that can be adjusted to accommodate variations in user finger length. The mode of x-y cursor control can be altered through the use of x-y input sensor perimeter inputs. One preferred embodiment discloses a thumb actuated scroll select touch switch that alters the response to actuation of the finger actuated zero force touch switches from mouse button input to scroll wheel input. A unique fin-shaped feature of one preferred embodiment stabilizes the device within the relaxed hand and adapts the device to fit a range of user hand sizes.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]This invention relates to a computer input device. More specifically the present invention is an ergonomic hand controller pointing device with functionality that enables it to replace current pointing devices such as a mouse or a digitizer pad. The present invention is less taxing to the user to minimize fatigue even during a protracted period of continuous use.BACKGROUND AND DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART[0002]Many computer applications require or accept input beyond the input of text from a keyboard. The types of input vary but the input can be broadly categorized as point and click. The pointing device couples an x-y position on the display with input from an actuator on the pointing device (although some computer keyboards have designated keys to duplicate some actuators for the pointing devices). Thus, an x-y position of a position icon on a display screen is combined with an input of some type from the actuator in order to select something such as a ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0065]In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a third touch switch located near the thumb causes the first two touch switches function like a scroll wheel found on the typical modem computer mouse. Thus, the user can efficiently scroll through windowed computer applications. Electronic auditory or vibratory feedback alerts the user to touch switch activation thereby giving the zero-force switches a simulated tactile feel.

[0066]Also in the preferred embodiment, a unique wedge-shaped fin protrudes upward from the side of the main body of the device. This fin fits comfortably into the user's palm beneath the thumb to stabilize the device and to accommodate varying user hand sizes.

[0067]The present invention, hereinafter “pointing device” is best suited to graphically-oriented computer use wherein the “point”, “click”, “drag” and “scroll” operations associated with computer input devices consume more time than direct, keyboard text editing. Such uses may include graphically oriented programs for design, drafting, art, and programming. Other uses include, but are not limited to, operations with navigation and selection primarily by point and click, such as navigation and use of In

Problems solved by technology

While the mouse was a large improvement over other pointing devices such as light pens, the repetitive motions required to place the position icon in the desired location and the movements to couple an input command with the selected location have been linked with repetitive motion injuries to some computer users.

The problems are particularly acute among users who use a mouse pointing device frequently as is the case with people who use such a device as part of their occupation.

The improvements have refi

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