Abstract: An ergonomic input controller includes a pedestal that is in contact with a work surface, such as a desk or an equipment operation panel. A stem is attached atop the pedestal and a grip body is rotatably attached atop the stem at an input housing. An input detector is incorporated into the grip body and is in communication with the input housing. The input detector provides signals regarding grip body movement about the stem. A z-axis controller permits the user to manipulate three dimensional drawings. A maintaining device is attached prevents inadvertent movement of the grip body and holds the grip body in its last used position. An encoder is in communication with and receives signals from the input detector. The encoder provides control signals for output to the computer, game, data input device or industrial controller.

Abstract: The feeding of plastic sheet material to a trim press is carried out utilizing an endless belt conveyor which supports and drives the plastic sheet in a manner which is coordinated with the cycle of drawing of the sheet material into the trim press dies. The surface of the conveyor belt supports the plastic sheet for upward movement with little or no dragging of the sheet material, and the position of the plastic sheet being engaged with the conveyor can be set by an operator utilizing guide plates and guide wheels located at a position near the intake end of the conveyor. The conveyor belt may be driven continuously at a rate corresponding to the rate at which plastic sheet is drawn into the trim press, or in intermittent motion by a motor in a manner that is coordinated with the intermittent feeding of the sheet material into the trim press.