Abstract: Cursor control device for controlling a cursor on a computer screen includes a base having a flat lower surface to enable it to be movable over a horizontal surface, a pliable casing defining an interior, and a fluid-containing bladder arranged inside the casing interior and to change its shape upon application of pressure to an outer surface of the casing. When a user grasps the casing in their hand and squeezes it, the casing and the bladder change their shape. A mechanism is arranged in connection with the base for responding to the change in shape of the bladder and generating signals for control of a cursor based thereon. One embodiment of the mechanism may include a switch which can extend upward from the base through a channel in the casing so that the bladder enters into this channel as it changes its position and thereby actuates the switch.

Abstract: Cursor control device for controlling a cursor on a screen of a computer includes an outer casing, an inner casing arranged inside the outer casing, a sensor arrangement for detecting application of pressure to the outer casing above a pre-determined magnitude, and hardware coupled to the sensor arrangement for converting the application of pressure to the outer casing into signals indicative of the application of such pressure. These signals are provided by the hardware to a computer having a screen with the cursor thereon to enable control of the cursor. The sensor arrangement may include a conductive mesh on an inner surface of the outer casing and a conductive covering on the outer surface of the inner casing with a space being present therebetween. Squeezing the outer casing causes the conductive mesh to contact the conductive covering thereby completing an electrical circuit which is detected by the hardware.