Abstract: A personal computer for a handicapped person includes an input panel that is subdivided into a group of fields, with one of the fields designated as a central field for the group. Each field is, in turn, subdivided into nine elements (spaces) comprised of a neutral central element surrounded by eight output elements. Each of those eight output elements has an output character representing a respective output signal. A mark (cursor) is moved across the panel by a control stick that is manipulated by a user. The cursor is always initially located at the center element of the central field. In order to move the cursor to a desired output element, the user: (a) identifies the field in which the desired output character is located, (b) moves the cursor in a first direction to the central element of that identified field, and (c) moves the cursor by one space directly to the desired output element in a second direction oriented either orthogonally or diagonally to the first direction.

Abstract: A single-axis or multi-axis joystick assembly which is operative with a minimal amount of input force or displacement. As such, the joystick assembly is especially suited for those with severe motor handicaps who have limited movement in their extremities. The joystick assembly includes a housing and a handle operatively mounted to the housing for movement relative thereto. The handle operatively engages a sensor which generates an output signal when an input force is applied to the handle. The output signal is proportional to the input force. Preferably, the sensor is a piezoelectric pressure transducer.

Abstract: A multidimensional handle controlled without displacement is used for precisely positioned control and input. The actuating rod is selectively and simultaneously subjected to lateral pressure and to bending by a surrounding fist. The third dimension is controlled without displacement by the thumb, which acts on an additional sensor lever.

Abstract: A circuit arrangement for the implementation of a fast discrete Fourier transform in real time through the controlled operation of cross-linked butterfly, or kernel, operators. The circuit arrangement will successively transmit the two halves of a sequence of complex input words through a series-parallel input register and an interim data storage to a plurality of butterfly operators which operate in parallel, whose outputs are switchable by a multiplexer for recursive linkage with the interim storage or, in essence, for the delivery of the frequency range-output words to a parallel-series output register.