Abstract: A manually activated bidimensional, boundaryless input control system having particular application to a computer to enable the computer operator to selectively ana accurately control the positioning of a video image (e.g. a cursor) on a computer monitor. The input system comprises a contact bar which is located near the front of the computer keyboard so as to be readily accessible to the computer operator for rotation around a fixed axis. The contact bar carries a plurality of evenly spaced, longitudinally extending belts which may be rotated by the computer operator in a longitudinal direction around the bar. Movement sensing devices are interfaced with and responsive to both the rotation of the bar and at least one of the belts extending longitudinally therealong.

Abstract: A control system that undergoes lateral and rotational movement to selectively and accurately position an image on the screen of a video monitor. A movement detector is interfaced with a microprocessor to detect and interpret the movement of the control system. The control system comprises a shaft and a bar having a bar axis. The bar is rotatable around the shaft about the bar axis and slideable along the shaft in a direction parallel to the bar axis. Accordingly, movement of the bar with respect to the shaft causes a corresponding movement or positioning of the image on the screen.