Abstract: The present invention is an input device for a computer is provided which generates input signals through a polyhedron having an enclosing surface, the polyhedron cooperating with sensing means for sensing pressure indicative of deformation forces applied externally to the enclosing surface to generate electrical signals indicative of the magnitude and location of pressure on the enclosing surface. Means are provided for coupling this array of electrical signals to the computer. In specific embodiments of the invention, the polyhedron may include means for sensing orientation in space and means for sensing location in space. In a still further embodiment, protrusions on the surface may be provided permitting a handler to pull upon the enclosing surface indicating a negative direction of applied pressure.

Abstract: A disc (14,24) providing magnetic absorption and mechanical damping is provided which is for mounting near or upon the top of a Compact Disc (100) in position in a CD player. The disc includes one or more layers of material having high magnetic permeability, such as MuMetal. In a specific embodiment, a damping disc is formed of a pair of MuMetal layers on the order of 0.004 inch in thickness separated by a substantially rigid elastomer. The damping disc provides shielding and magnetic loading by absorbing magnetic fields of a player drive motor and arm servo motor to dissipate energy, thereby reducing magnetic field coupling with electronic signal components. The damping disc is mounted on top of a CD (100) and includes a magnetic shielding layer (12) and an acoustic damping layer (16).

Abstract: A stylus formed of a shaft containing pressure sensors and useful in signature verification and in identification of individuals. The pressure sensors are imbedded in and integral with the shaft of the stylus at a predetermined distance from the tip used for writing. The sensors are preferably disposed in an annulus and located in each of four quadrants surrounding the shaft enabling three-axis pressure detection.

Abstract: A three-axis force measurement stylus includes a housing and a cartridge and an interface between the housing and the cartridge wherein the interface comprises a plurality of pressure sensitive sheets, preferably of variable resistance pressure sensitive Mylar films which sense the force between the cartridge and the housing. The cartridge and the housings are disposed at a skew angle relative to the axis of the stylus to be able to sense forces in three dimensions. In a specific embodiment, the cartridge forms a conical section which mates with a complimentary conical section of the housing. Membranes of the force sensitive material are provided along three fingers from an apex of the conical section. The cartridge is preloaded against the conical section by a spring between the housing and the cartridge. Alternatively to the force sensitive film, a sheet of a piezoelectric pressure-sensitive material may be substituted.

Abstract: A device for maintaining a moveable faceplate panel a constant distance from a stationary point includes a fixed caddy. The caddy has longitudinally parallel fixed rails which curve in the same direction as one curvature of the panel. A moveable caddy rides on the fixed rails and includes additional rails which curve in the same direction as the other curvature of the panel. A panel carrier rides on the additional rails whereby the surface of the panel remains the constant distance from the stationary point and as movement occurs along either or both sets of rails.

Abstract: A three-axis force measurement stylus includes a housing and a cartridge and an interface between the housing and the cartridge wherein the interface comprises a plurality of pressure sensitive sheets, preferably of variable resistance pressure sensitive Mylar films which sense the force between the cartridge and the housing. The cartridge and the housings are disposed at a skew angle relative to the axis of the stylus to be able to sense forces in three dimensions. In a specific embodiment, the cartridge forms a conical section which mates with a complimentary conical section of the housing. Membranes of the force sensitive material are provided along three fingers from an apex of the conical section. The cartridge is preloaded against the conical section by a spring between the housing and the cartridge. Alternatively to the force sensitive film, a sheet of a piezoelectric pressure-sensitive material may be substituted.