Abstract: A computer mouse having a roller which implements a scrolling function for computer programs, particularly those running a windows format. In one embodiment, scrolling is implemented by sending messages to a queue associated with a windows kernel. The kernel interprets scrolling messages from the roller in the same manner as messages generated in the usual way from a graphical user interface. Rapid turning of the roller generates pulses which are stored in a buffer and interpreted as energy which is drawn from the buffer even after the roller stops turning so that scrolling continues until stopped or until the buffer is depleted.

Abstract: A hybrid mouse combining the usual x and y motion signals usually found in mice together with additional degrees of freedom, particularly a z-axis signal. The z-axis signal is generated by a roller whose turning motion is sensed by a shaft angle encoder, including a light chopper. Additional degrees of freedom may be provided by tilting the roller left and right to actuate switches. Actuation of each switch, together with pulse counts from the roller may be used to indicate pitch and roll. A yaw motion signal may be provided by use of dual position detectors. In another embodiment, pitch and roll may be indicated by a trackball mounted on the mouse housing with or without the z-axis roller.

Abstract: A wavelength-selective pad that is transparent when viewed by light of a first wavelength .lambda..sub.1 (e.g., visible light) and is highly reflective when viewed by light of a second wavelength .lambda..sub.2 (e.g., infrared light). The pad has a grid positioned above the highly reflecting layer so that this grid can be sensed by use of light of wavelength .lambda..sub.2 while, simultaneously, images, graphics or text positioned below the pad may be read by use of light of wavelength .lambda..sub.1. A text scanner system that produces and senses light at the two wavelengths is used in combination with the pad to simultaneously read the graphics or text and the grid position of the beam that illuminates the graphics and text.

Abstract: A detector of an electro-optical mouse having two linear arrays of detector cells at right angles to each other. One linear array images a line and a space in the X direction, while another linear array images a line and a space in the Y direction. Changes in contrast level indicate line crossings. Each linear array has four cells, adjacent cells being 90.degree. out-of-phase with each other. By pairing first and third cells and second and fourth cells of each linear array, then subtracting the output of these, a 180.degree. shift between the cells enhances discrimination of lines and spaces. Lines may be of two colors, or of a single color with optically contrasting line intersections, so long as a total of three contrast levels can be observed by the detector. Counting means is provided for counting line crossings so that observed detector motion on the surface can be made to correspond to cursor motion for a video display.