Ergonomic mouse design with multiple programmable buttons

Abstract

Input device (100) for communication with a processor-based device, the input device comprising: - a circuit; - a first offset converter coupled to the circuit to convert a measured offset into offset signals, the circuit serving to communicate the offset signals to the processor-based device in order to manipulate an object on the processor-based device; - a body (104) for housing the circuit and the first offset converter, wherein the body (104) has a base to be supported on a surface in use, and a support surface extending outwards from the base, wherein at least part of the support surface serves to support the user's middle hand in use, wherein the body (104) has a depressible button formed on the support surface; - a plurality of actuators (114, 116, 118) formed on the support surface of the body (104) and positioned along the circumference of the depressible button, the plurality of actuators (114, 116, 118) being coupled to the circuit, - wherein the plurality of actuators (114, 116, 118) are to be actuated in order to generate actuation signals which are to be detected by the circuit, wherein the actuation signals are to be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device in order to perform a shortcut key function on the processor-based device; - a memory configured to store a unique code under a shortcut profile, wherein the unique code corresponds to an actuation of an actuator of the plurality of actuators (114, 116, 118) for activating the shortcut function, - wherein the unique code can further be assigned in a user-definable manner to a software application that is to be executed on the processor-based device when the unique code is captured.

Description

Field of invention

[0001] The invention relates generally to user-friendly interface devices for computers. In particular, the invention relates to an ergonomic mouse device with multiple programmable buttons. background

[0002] Pointing devices, such as a computer mouse, are typically used to control cursor movement displayed on a computer screen to make selections on a graphical user interface (GUI). The use of pointing devices involves a high degree of repetitive hand and finger movements and positions. Some forms of repetitive stress disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), can be attributed to the frequent use of pointing devices, particularly when uncomfortable and stressful movements and / or positions are involved. Consequently, pointing devices configured to force a user's wrist, hand, and fingers into uncomfortable and stressful positions and / or movements are undesirable.

[0003] Additionally, the problem is even more severe for users suffering from repetitive stress disorders due to the use of pointing devices in today's environment, where the use of personal computers (PCs) for various purposes, ranging from production work to gaming, is far more ubiquitous than in the past. In particular, PC gaming is gaining enormous popularity worldwide due to the development of the internet as a platform allowing players to easily collaborate through online games. PC games played online typically fall into categories ranging from first-person shooters (FPS) to massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs).Typically, pointing devices, such as the computer mouse, are used together with keyboards as a means to enable users to interact with PC games.

[0004] Due to the rise in popularity of PC games, users need more buttons than ever before on their computer mouse to activate additional functionalities and features of PC games on the fly. Traditionally, a computer mouse typically comes equipped with one or two buttons. However, to take advantage of macro "shortcut" functions provided by software and PC games, device manufacturers have added extra buttons to the mouse, for example, placing them on the sides of the left and right mouse buttons. Because of the awkward positioning of these extra buttons, which are designed to conform to the shape of the mouse, they are not easily accessible to users.

[0005] The following publications are cited as representing the state of the art: DE 20 2004 010 948 U1, DE 197 22 636 A1, US 533 554 S, DE 10 2005 041 323 A1.

[0006] In view of the above problems, one of the objectives of the invention is to provide a device with buttons that are ergonomically positioned and enable a “quick key” function. Summary

[0007] The aforementioned problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0008] Exemplary embodiments of the invention disclosed herein provide an ergonomic input device with multiple programmable keys.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the invention, an input device for communication with a processor-based device is disclosed. The input device comprises a circuit, a first offset converter, a body, and a plurality of actuators. The first offset converter is coupled to the circuit to convert a measured offset into offset signals, and the circuit serves to communicate the offset signals to the processor-based device in order to manipulate an object on the processor-based device. The body houses the circuit and the first offset converter, the body having a base for being mounted on a surface during use and a support surface extending outwards from the base, at least a portion of the support surface serving to support the user's hand during use, and the body having a depressible button formed on the support surface.The multitude of actuators is formed on the support surface of the body and positioned along the circumference of the depressible button; the multitude of actuators is coupled to the circuit. Among other things, the multitude of actuators is actuated to generate actuation signals that can be detected by the circuit, whereby the actuation signals can be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device to execute a function on the processor-based device.

[0010] According to a second aspect of the invention, an input device for communication with a processor-based device is disclosed. The input device comprises a circuit, a first offset converter, a body, a receiver, and an actuator module. The first offset converter is coupled to the circuit to convert a measured offset into offset signals, and the circuit serves to communicate the offset signals to the processor-based device in order to manipulate an object on the processor-based device. The body houses the circuit and the first offset converter. The body has a base for being placed on a surface during use and a support surface extending outwards from the base. During use, at least a portion of the support surface serves to support the user's hand. The body has a depressible button formed on the support surface.The receptacle is formed in the support surface of the body and positioned along the circumference of the depressible button. The receptacle has electrical contacts formed within it, which are coupled to the circuit. The actuator module comprises a plurality of actuators, and the actuator module can be accommodated in the receptacle. The plurality of actuators of the actuator module are actuated to generate actuation signals that can be detected by the circuit via the electrical contacts. These actuation signals can then be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device to execute a function on the processor-based device.

[0011] According to a third aspect of the invention, an input device for communication with a processor-based device is disclosed. The input device comprises a circuit, a first offset converter, a body, and a receiver. The first offset converter is coupled to the circuit to convert a measured offset into offset signals, and the circuit serves to communicate the offset signals to the processor-based device. The body houses the circuit and the first offset converter, the body having a base for being placed on a surface during use, and a support surface extending outwards from the base, with at least a portion of the support surface serving to support the user's hand during use.The receptacle is formed in the support surface of the body, the receptacle having electrical contacts formed therein and coupled to the circuit, the receptacle serving to receive an actuator module, and the actuator module comprising at least one actuator. When the actuator module is received in the receptacle, the at least one actuator of the actuator module is actuated to generate actuation signals that can be detected by the circuit via the electrical contacts, the actuation signals being transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device to execute a function on the processor-based device.

[0012] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, an input device for communication with a processor-based device is disclosed. The input device comprises a circuit, a body, and a receptacle. The body houses the circuit and has a base for mounting on a surface during use and a support surface extending outwards from the base, with at least a portion of the support surface serving to support the user's hand during use. The receptacle is formed on the support surface of the body and has electrical contacts formed therein and coupled to the circuit. The receptacle serves to receive an actuator module, and the actuator module comprises at least one actuator.When the actuator module is included in the receptacle, at least one actuator of the actuator module is actuated to generate actuation signals that can be detected by the circuit via the electrical contacts, the actuation signals being able to be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device to perform a function on the processor-based device. Brief description of the drawings

[0013] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are disclosed below with reference to the drawings in which: Fig. 1 a top view of an input device according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 a left-hand top view of the input device of Fig. 1 is Fig. 3 a floor supervisor of the input device of Fig. 1 is; Fig. Figure 4 shows a graphical format of a software application related to the configuration of the input device of Fig. 1 is used Fig. 5 is a top view of a body assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the input device of Fig. 5; Fig. Figure 7 is a rear top view of the input device of Fig. 5; Fig. 8 is a right-hand top view of the input device of Fig. 5; Fig. 9 is a top view of an input device according to a third embodiment of the present invention; Fig. Figure 10 is a perspective view of the input device of Fig. 9; Fig. Figure 11 is a rear top view of the input device of Fig. 9; and Fig. 12 is a right-hand top view of the input device of Fig. 9. Detailed description

[0014] An ergonomic input device with multiple programmable keys is described below to address the aforementioned problems.

[0015] For the sake of brevity and clarity, the following description of the invention is limited to applications relating to ergonomic input devices. However, this does not exclude various embodiments of the invention from other applications that have similar operating characteristics. The fundamental operating and functional principles of the embodiments of the invention are common to all of them.

[0016] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below in accordance with the Fig. Figures 1 to 12 of the drawings are described, in which identical elements are numbered with the same reference numbers.

[0017] The Fig. Figures 1 to 3 show an ergonomic input device 100 configured according to an embodiment of the invention. The input device 100 is preferably a computer mouse for use with a computer 102. The input device 100 comprises a body 104 with an upper surface 106. Three independently actuated actuators are mounted on the body 104, including a primary button 108, a secondary button 110, and a scroll wheel 112. The primary button 108, the secondary button 110, and the scroll wheel 112 are typical actuators of a conventional computer mouse. Alternatively, the input device 100 comprises at least the primary button 108, the secondary button 110, or the scroll wheel 112.

[0018] The input device 100 further comprises a first actuator module 114, a second actuator module 116, and a third actuator module 118, which are mounted on the body 104. The first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator 118 each comprise a single button, a touch sensor, a slider, or a switch. Preferably, the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator module 118 each have a plurality of buttons. The first actuator module 114 and the second actuator module 116 are mounted on the upper surface 104 near the primary button 108. The third actuator module 118 is preferably mounted on a side surface of the body 104, as shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 is shown.

[0019] When a user presses or "clicks" either the primary button 108 or the secondary button 110, a switching function is executed. Specifically, pressing either the primary button 108 or the secondary button 110 changes an associated switching state and generates a signal that is transmitted via conductors in a cable 120 to the computer 102. One end of the cable 120 is anchored within the body 104 and extends from one end 122 of the input device 100, while the other end of the cable 120 is connected to the computer 120.

[0020] The computer 102 can have a variety of designs and includes a visual display device 124. The visual display device 124, which may be of the type of a cathode ray tube, of the type of an active matrix display, or of another suitable device, can display a cursor (or pointer) 126 together with text or other graphic information. The computer 102 further includes a memory 128, a processor 130, and a keyboard 132.

[0021] The scroll wheel 112 protrudes partially from the body 104 to allow user interaction. Specifically, the scroll wheel 112 is mounted on an axle located within the body 104 of the input device 100. The axle is supported by spaced-apart bearings. The bearings are configured such that one end of the axle can move in a direction generally perpendicular to the pre-axis of the scroll wheel 112, allowing the user to depress the scroll wheel 112 to actuate a switch (not shown). The switch, activated as a result of depressing the scroll wheel 112, then provides a switching signal. A spring is also preferably included within the body 104 and arranged to provide a compliant resistance to depressing the scroll wheel 112.

[0022] Additionally, an optical encoder (not shown) can be positioned on the axis for rotation with the scroll wheel 112. A light source and a light sensor are arranged in the input device 100 to detect the movement of the optical encoder and thereby provide a position signal with respect to the scroll wheel 112. A detent mechanism is also provided on the axis to provide a segmented sensation of the rotation of the scroll wheel 112. The positioning and switching signals are transmitted via the cable 120 to the computer 102 to effect changes on the visual display device 124, such as text scrolling.

[0023] Alternatively, instead of using the scroll wheel 112, other offset converter means, for example a scroll ball, a touch sensor or an optical sensor, can be used instead of the scroll wheel 112, which is known to the average professional.

[0024] The first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator module 118 are, for example, designated for activating "shortcut" functions, such as "page forward" or "page back," which are used for web browsing. The shortcut functions can be assigned to any key on the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator module 118. The user then presses a specific key to activate the corresponding shortcut function assigned to it. Thus, unlike using the keys on the keyboard 132 to activate the shortcut functions in a conventional manner, the user instead uses the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator module 118.Traditionally, "hotkey" functions are typically assigned to function keys on the 132-key keyboard, such as the "F1", "F3", or "F5" keys, and are triggered using these keys. Alternatively, the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator module 118 can be configured to assign game "hotkey" functions to them, such as "shoot", "blow", or "crouch". This provides the user with quick access to the various game functions when playing PC games and frees the user from awkwardly positioning their hand on the 132-key keyboard to access the keys assigned to the corresponding game functions.

[0025] A Software 400 application, as used in Fig. Figure 4 is provided to assign the "shortcut" functions to any key of the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator module 118. A unique code corresponding to pressing a key to activate a "shortcut" function can be defined by the user using the software application 400. The unique code is stored under a "shortcut" profile in the memory (not shown) provided in the input device 100. The memory is preferably a semiconductor memory device, for example, random access static memory (SRAM) or flash memory. Alternatively, the "shortcut" profile is stored on the computer 102. Additionally, the unique code can be assigned to a software application provided on the computer 102.Whenever the computer 102 detects a system signal corresponding to the unique code, the associated software application is loaded into memory 128, executed by the computer 102, and displayed to the user on the visual display device 124.

[0026] When executed by the user, software application 400 provides the following options: a key option, an option to start an application, and an option to load a shortcut profile. The key option specifies a key from the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, or the third actuator module 118 to be configured. The option to start an application allows the user to define an associated software application to be executed on computer 102 when the unique code corresponding to pressing the previously configured key using the key option is detected. The option to load a shortcut profile allows the user to determine whether the shortcut profile has been called by computer 102 from the input device 100 and pre-loaded in memory 128 when computer 102 is started.Alternatively, if the "shortcut" profile is stored on computer 102, the "shortcut" profile load option allows the user to determine whether the "shortcut" profile is preloaded into memory 128 when computer 102 is started.

[0027] Alternatively, the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator module 118 can also be configured so that each can be mounted on a removable module. The removable module is attached to the body 104 via receptacles formed in the body 104 and is secured using fasteners, such as interlocking latches. Additionally, the removable module can be detached from the body 104 and replaced by another module, such as a buttonless module. The interchangeability of the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator module 118 allows the user to configure the input device 100 to accommodate different hand sizes or user preferences.Additionally, the detachable module contains electrical connections for connecting to an electrical interface formed in the body 104 when the detachable module is positioned in the receptacles and attached to the body 104. Electrical signals are transmitted to the computer 102 via the conductors in the cable 120 when any buttons of the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator module 118 are pressed.

[0028] The first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator module 118 are preferably constructed from buttons that are spring-loaded with respect to the body 104, as is known in the prior art. Alternatively, the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator module 118 are constructed using touch sensors. The touch sensors are either capacitive or resistive sensors. The user operates the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator module 118 by using their fingers to perform touch actions, which can be received by the touch sensors and converted into electrical signals.The use of touch sensors for the first actuator module 114, the second actuator module 116, and the third actuator module 118 predictably extends the product life of the input device 100 without the typical wear associated with conventional buttons. Furthermore, the user does not need to perform substantially large, downward finger movements to actuate buttons constructed using touch sensors, since, due to the sensitivity and responsiveness of the touch sensors, a light touch is sufficient to "click" the button.

[0029] Preferably, the body 104 of the input device 100 is made of rigid plastic and has a flat base 202 that rests on a surface 204 of a work surface while being operated by a user. The surface 204 of the work surface is essentially flat. Furthermore, the upper surface 106 extends from the flat base 202. In addition, two side surfaces, which are essentially perpendicular to the flat base 202, connect the upper surface 106 to the flat base 202 to form a continuous surface and thereby constitute the body 104 of the input device 100. The upper surface 106 also slopes gradually from a section where the metacarpal area of ​​the hand can be supported to a section and in a direction where the wrist of the hand can be positioned when the user's hand grasps the input device 100 during use.Furthermore, two flanges extend outwards from the sides of the flat base 202 to provide a larger surface area for stabilizing the input device 100 when operated by the user on the surface 204 of the work area. Additionally, the body 104 is ergonomically shaped for comfortable gripping by the user operating the input device 100.

[0030] The upper surface 106 of the body 104 comprises a surface area that is essentially large enough to support and rest in the mid-hand area of ​​the user's hand.

[0031] Additionally, the upper surface 106 also provides support for the metacarpal bones of at least the index, middle, or ring finger of the user. Furthermore, the upper surface 106 is preferably shaped as a continuous, convex curve to conform to the natural posture of a human hand. Consequently, the design of the body 104 ensures that, regardless of the size of the user's hand operating the input device 100, the user's forearm is in the neutral zone between tilt and twist when the input device 100 is operated.

[0032] The body 104 further comprises two ergonomically shaped indentations, each formed on and along the two side surfaces of the body 104. The indentations are shaped to fit and accommodate the thumb, ring finger, and little finger when the user grasps and operates the input device 100. Preferably, the indentation for receiving the thumb is substantially concave, while the indentation for receiving either the little finger or the ring finger is substantially convex. When the thumb and little finger rest on the indentations during use, the input device 100 lies between the thumb and little finger to provide a comfortable grip or tactile sensation for the user.

[0033] During operation of the input device, the body 104 is moved relative to the surface 204, and an optical sensor 302, located in the body 104 on the flat base 202, detects the movement of the input device 100 and generates position signals. The position signals are then sent to and processed by the computer 120 to move the cursor 126 on the visual display device 124.

[0034] The first actuator module 114 and the second actuator module 116 are provided and arranged on the upper surface 106 in such a way as to allow easy access to them when the user uses the input device 100. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the first actuator module 114 is located on the upper surface 106 at the left edge of the primary key 108, and the second actuator module 116 is similarly located at the left edge of the scroll wheel 112. Preferably, both the first actuator module 114 and the second actuator module 116 are arranged in a row-like configuration. Human factor considerations were applied in the design of the configuration of the first actuator module 114 and the second actuator module 116 to prevent the user from assuming an unfamiliar position or performing a stressful finger movement, such as twisting or lateral movement of the fingers, when using the input device 100. An unfamiliar finger positioning when using this type of input device can lead to significant physical stress, causing discomfort for the user.Typically, the user uses their index or middle finger to operate any of the buttons on the first actuator module 114 and the second actuator module 116. Furthermore, the user also uses their index or middle finger to operate the scroll wheel 112. Consequently, by arranging the first actuator module 114 and the second actuator module 116 in close proximity to the scroll wheel 112, the user is able to quickly access its buttons.

[0035] Separately, the third actuator module 118, mounted on one of the side surfaces of the body 104, allows the user to conveniently use their thumb to operate any of the buttons on the third actuator module 118 when grasping the input device 100. Access to the buttons on the third actuator module 118 is achieved through a comfortable side-to-side movement (lateral flexion) of the thumb. Depressing the buttons on the third actuator module 118 is accomplished with a slight flexion of the thumb. Access to and operation of the buttons on the third actuator module 118 by the user's thumb is within the expected range of thumb movement for a wide range of hand sizes.Furthermore, the surface of the removable module in which the third actuator module 118 is formed is essentially concave, so that it conforms to the convex shape of the user's thumb and thereby ensures that practically no extension of the thumb is required when moving from key to key of the third actuator module 118.

[0036] In an alternative embodiment, as described in the Fig. As shown in Figures 5 to 8, there is another ergonomic input device, the 500, configured for use with the computer 102. The input device 500 is similarly designed to the input device 100. Fig. 1. The preceding descriptions of the input device 100 of Fig. 1 therefore also apply to the input device 500 of Fig. 5 to with the exception of one specific feature difference. The feature difference between input device 500 of Fig. 5...

[0037] The 900 is configured similarly to the 100 input device. Fig. 1. The foregoing description of input device 100 of Fig. 1 also applies to the input device 900 from Fig. 9 to with the exception of one specific feature difference. The feature difference is that the input device 900 of Fig. 9 in the second actuator module 116 does not include, as is clear in Fig. 9 is shown.

[0038] Alternatively, other ergonomic shapes for the body 104, as known in the prior art, are feasible and usable for the input device of Fig. 1, the input device 500 of Fig. 5 and the input device 900 from Fig. 9, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Additionally, the communication between the computer 100 and the input device 100 can be Fig. 1, the input device 500 of Fig. 5 and the input device 900 of Fig. 9 each via a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0039] In the foregoing manner, an ergonomic input device with multiple programmable keys according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention is described in order to address at least one of the aforementioned disadvantages. Although some exemplary embodiments of the invention are disclosed, it is apparent to the person skilled in the art, with regard to this disclosure, that numerous changes and / or modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

[1] Input device (100) for communication with a processor-based device, the input device comprising: - a circuit; - a first offset converter coupled to the circuit to convert a measured offset into offset signals, the circuit serving to communicate the offset signals to the processor-based device in order to manipulate an object on the processor-based device; - a body (104) for housing the circuit and the first offset converter, wherein the body (104) has a base to be supported on a surface in use, and a support surface extending outwards from the base, wherein at least part of the support surface serves to support the user's middle hand in use, wherein the body (104) has a depressible button formed on the support surface; - a plurality of actuators (114, 116, 118) formed on the support surface of the body (104) and positioned along the circumference of the depressible button, the plurality of actuators (114, 116, 118) being coupled to the circuit, - wherein the plurality of actuators (114, 116, 118) are to be actuated in order to generate actuation signals which are to be detected by the circuit, wherein the actuation signals are to be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device in order to perform a shortcut key function on the processor-based device; - a memory configured to store a unique code under a shortcut profile, wherein the unique code corresponds to an actuation of an actuator of the plurality of actuators (114, 116, 118) for activating the shortcut function, - wherein the unique code can further be assigned in a user-definable manner to a software application that is to be executed on the processor-based device when the unique code is captured. [2] Input device according to claim 1, wherein the first offset converter is formed on the basis of the body (104). [3] Input device according to claim 1, further comprising: - a second offset transducer formed on the support surface of the body (104) and actuated to generate actuation signals to be detected by the circuit, wherein the actuation signals can be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device to perform a function on the processor-based device. [4] Input device according to claim 3, wherein the second offset transducer is a scroll wheel, a scroll ball, a touch sensor or an optical sensor. [5] Input device according to claim 1, wherein each of the multiple actuators (114, 116, 118) is a touch sensor. [6] Input device according to claim 5, wherein the touch sensor is a capacitive sensor or a resistance sensor. [7] Input device according to claim 1, wherein the multiple actuators (114, 116, 118) are arranged in a row and positioned next to the pressable button. [8] Input device according to claim 1, wherein each of the multiple actuators (114, 116, 118) has an actuation surface formed along the support surface, the actuation surface of each of the multiple actuators (114, 116, 118) having smaller dimensions than the pressable button. [9] Input device for communication with a processor-based device, the input device comprising: - a circuit; - a first offset converter coupled to the circuit to convert a measured offset into offset signals, wherein the circuit serves to communicate offset signals to the processor-based device in order to manipulate an object on the processor-based device; - a body (104) for housing the circuit and the first offset converter, wherein the body (104) has a base for being supported on a surface in use and a support surface extending outwards from the base, wherein at least part of the support surface serves to support the user's middle hand in use, wherein the body (104) has a depressible button formed on the support surface; - a receptacle formed on the support surface of the body (104) and positioned along the circumference of the depressible button, the receptacle having electrical contacts formed therein and coupled to the circuit; - an actuator module (114, 116, 118) comprising a plurality of actuators, wherein the actuator module (114, 116, 118) is to be included in the recording, - wherein the multiple actuators of the actuator module (114, 116, 118) are to be actuated in order to generate actuation signals which are to be detected by the circuit via the electrical contacts, wherein the actuation signals are to be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device in order to execute a shortcut key function on the processor-based device, - a memory configured to store a unique code under a shortcut profile, wherein the unique code corresponds to an actuation of the actuator module (114, 116, 118) to activate the shortcut function, - wherein the unique code can further be assigned in a user-definable manner to a software application that is to be executed on the processor-based device when the unique code is captured. [10] Input device according to claim 9, wherein the first offset converter is formed on the basis of the body (104). [11] Input device according to claim 9, further comprising: - a second offset transducer formed on the support surface of the body (104) and actuated to generate actuation signals to be detected by the circuit, wherein the actuation signals can be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device to perform a function on the processor-based device. [12] Input device according to claim 11, wherein the second offset transducer is a scroll wheel, a scroll ball, a touch sensor or an optical sensor. [13] Input device according to claim 9, wherein each of the multiple actuators is a touch sensor. [14] Input device according to claim 9, wherein the touch sensor is a capacitive sensor or a resistance sensor. [15] Input device according to claim 9, wherein the multiple actuators are arranged in a row and positioned next to the pressable button. [16] Input device according to claim 9, wherein each of the multiple actuators has an actuating surface formed along the support surface, the actuating surface of each of the multiple actuators having smaller dimensions than the pressable button. [17] Input device for communication with a processor-based device, the input device comprising: - a circuit; - a first offset converter coupled to the circuit to convert a measured offset into offset signals, the circuit serving to communicate the offset signals to the processor-based device in order to manipulate an object on the processor-based device; - a body (104) for housing the circuitry and the first offset converter, wherein the body (104) has a base for being supported on a surface during use and a support surface extending outwards from the base, wherein at least part of the support surface serves to support the user's middle hand during use; and - a receptacle formed on the support surface of the body (104), wherein the receptacle has electrical contacts formed therein and coupled to the circuit, wherein the receptacle serves to receive an actuator module (114, 116, 118) therein, wherein the actuator module (114, 116, 118) comprises at least one actuator, - wherein, when the actuator module (114, 116, 118) is included in the receptacle, at least one actuator of the actuator module (114, 116, 118) is to be actuated in order to generate actuation signals which are to be detected by the circuit via the electrical contacts, wherein the actuation signals are to be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device in order to execute a shortcut key function on the processor-based device, - a memory configured to store a unique code under a shortcut profile, wherein the unique code corresponds to an actuation of the actuator module (114, 116, 118) to activate the shortcut function, - wherein the unique code can further be assigned in a user-definable manner to a software application that is to be executed on the processor-based device when the unique code is captured. [18] Input device according to claim 17, further comprising: - a depressible button formed on the support surface of the body (104), wherein the depressible button is electrically coupled to the circuit, wherein the depressible button is to be actuated in order to generate actuation signals which are to be detected at the circuit, wherein the actuation signals are to be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device in order to perform a function on the processor-based device. [19] Input device according to claim 17, wherein the first offset converter is formed on the basis of the body (104). [20] Input device according to claim 17, further comprising: - a second offset transducer formed on the support surface of the body (104) and actuated to generate actuation signals to be detected by the circuit, wherein the actuation signals can be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device to perform a function on the processor-based device. [21] Input device according to claim 20, wherein the second offset transducer is a scroll wheel, a scroll ball, a touch sensor or an optical sensor. [22] Input device according to claim 17, wherein each of the multiple actuators is a touch sensor. [23] Input device according to claim 22, wherein the touch sensor is a capacitive sensor or a resistance sensor. [24] A body device according to claim 18, wherein each of the multiple actuators has an actuating surface formed along the support surface, the actuating surface of each of the multiple actuators having smaller dimensions than the pressable button. [25] Input device according to claim 18, wherein the receiver is positioned along the circumference of the depressable button. [26] Input device for communication with a processor-based device, the input device comprising: - a circuit; - a body (104) for housing the circuit, wherein the body (104) has a base for being supported on a surface during use and a support surface extending outwards from the base, wherein at least part of the support surface serves to support the user's middle hand during use; - a receptacle formed on the support surface of the body (104), wherein the receptacle has electrical contacts formed therein and coupled to the circuit, wherein the receptacle serves to receive the actuator module (114, 116, 118), wherein the actuator module (114, 116, 118) comprises at least one actuator, - wherein, when the actuator module (114, 116, 118) is included in the receptacle, at least one actuator of the actuator module (114, 116, 118) is to be actuated in order to generate actuation signals which are to be detected by the circuit via the electrical contacts, wherein the actuation signals are to be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device in order to perform a shortcut key function in the processor-based device, - a memory configured to store a unique code under a shortcut profile, wherein the unique code corresponds to an actuation of the actuator module (114, 116, 118) to activate the shortcut function, - wherein the unique code can further be assigned in a user-definable manner to a software application that is to be executed on the processor-based device when the unique code is captured. [27] Input device according to claim 26, further comprising: - a depressible button formed on the support surface of the body (104), wherein the depressible button is electrically coupled to the circuit, wherein the depressible button is to be actuated in order to generate actuation signals which are to be detected by the circuit, wherein the actuation signals are to be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device in order to perform a function of the processor-based device. [28] Input device according to claim 27, further comprising: - an offset transducer formed on the body (104) so ​​that it protrudes from the support surface of the body (104) and which is to be actuated to generate actuation signals to be detected by the circuit, wherein the actuation signals are to be transmitted by the circuit to the processor-based device in order to perform a function on the processor-based device. [29] Input device according to claim 28, wherein the second offset transducer is a scroll wheel, a scroll ball, a touch sensor or an optical sensor. [30] Input device according to claim 26, wherein each of the multiple actuators is a touch sensor. [31] Input device according to claim 30, wherein the touch sensor is a capacitive sensor or a resistance sensor. [32] Input device according to claim 27, wherein the at least one actuator of the actuator module (114, 116, 118) has an actuating surface which is formed along the support surface, wherein the actuating surface of the at least one actuator is smaller in dimensions than the pressable button. [33] Input device according to claim 27, wherein the receiver is positioned along the circumference of the depressible button.

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