Abstract: An opto-mechanical trackball assembly is disclosed with increased functionality. In accordance with an important feature of the invention, a plurality of polychromatic light sources, such as polychromatic LEDs (also known as RGB LEDs), are spaced apart and disposed adjacent the trackball. Such polychromatic LEDs can provide up to 256 colors as well as allow the intensity of the light emitted from the trackball to be controlled. In addition, sequencing the turning on and off of spaced apart polychromatic light sources can be used to simulate movement of the trackball to raise the level of interest in the game, for example, during periods when the game is not being played. The polychromatic LEDs can also be used to create a light show of different colors to draw interest to the game during periods of inactivity. In one embodiment of the invention, the polychromatic light sources are configured for use in arcade/casino games that accommodate multiple users.

Abstract: A drive mechanism (101) for a portable electronic device (102), such as a mobile telephone or personal digital assistant, includes at least one wheel (113) engaging at least one track (103). In one embodiment, two tracks (103,104) are coupled to a first housing (105), while a pair of wheels (113,114) are coupled to a shaft (106) which is coupled to a second housing (107) by way of a shaft retaining member (111). The wheels (113,114), which may include wheel teeth (224,225) disposed about the perimeter (226,227) of the wheels that engage track teeth (112), pass along the tracks (103,104) to cause the first housing (105) to slide open or closed relative to the second housing (107). A preloaded tensioning device (108), which in one embodiment comprises to oppositely wound coiled springs disposed concentrically about the shaft (106) bias the first housing (105) and the second housing (107) towards an open position.

Abstract: A drive mechanism (101) for a portable electronic device (102), such as a mobile telephone or personal digital assistant, includes at least one wheel (113) engaging at least one track (103). In one embodiment, two tracks (103,104) are coupled to a first housing (105), while a pair of wheels (113,114) are coupled to a shaft (106) which is coupled to a second housing (107) by way of a shaft retaining member (111). The wheels (113,114), which may include wheel teeth (224,225) disposed about the perimeter (226,227) of the wheels that engage track teeth (112), pass along the tracks (103,104) to cause the first housing (105) to slide open or closed relative to the second housing (107). A preloaded tensioning device (108), which in one embodiment comprises to oppositely wound coiled springs disposed concentrically about the shaft (106) bias the first housing (105) and the second housing (107) towards an open position.