Abstract: The subject disclosure is directed towards a distance sensor that outputs one or more (e.g., infrared) light patterns from a transmitting element. Signals from any reflective entity (e.g., a surface or object) within the sensor's range are captured by a receiving element. The captured image is digitized into digital data representing each light pattern, and the digital data is processed (e.g., including using triangulation) to determine distance data of the distance sensor relative to the reflective surface.

Abstract: Described herein are technologies pertaining to autonomously docking a mobile robot at a docking station for purposes of recharging batteries of the mobile robot. The mobile robot uses vision-based navigation and a known map of the environment to navigate toward the docking station. Once sufficiently proximate to the docking station, the mobile robot captures infrared images of the docking station, and granularly aligns itself with the docking station based upon the captured infrared images of the docking station. As the robot continues to drive towards the docking station, the robot monitors infrared sensors for infrared beams emitted from the docking station. If the infrared sensors receive the infrared beams, the robot continues to drive forward until the robot successfully docks with the docking station.

Abstract: The wireless computer input system uses a pen-type input device and a receiver. The pen-type input device includes an LED, at least one switch, a rechargeable battery, and a control circuit. The control circuit provides signals to the LED upon activation of the switch, and provides for power management functions allowing the pen to conserve power during idle periods. The receiver includes one or more light-detecting elements connected to position computation circuitry. The light-detecting element or elements are either a two-dimensional PSD, two one-dimensional PSDs or a four division photodiode. Optional lenses, optical filters, and apertured plates are positioned before the light-detecting element(s), improving the signal-to-noise ratio of the system. The computation circuitry receives the signals from the light-detecting element(s), digitizes them, and computes the coordinates of the pen which are output to a host computer.

Abstract: A user input system for inputting computer signals, such as a joystick, has an elongated member or handle that is movably received by a housing. The handle is capable of moving in at least three perpendicular directions, i.e., along X, Y and Z axes, and is capable of being rotated about at least one of the three axes. In a first embodiment, a pair of light emitting diodes ("LEDs") are mounted at an end of the handle and oriented toward the interior of the housing. The LEDs are strobed to alternately project light downward into the housing. A light detecting element, such as a two-dimensional position sensing device ("PSD"), two one-dimension PSDs, or a four quadrant photodiode, is positioned opposite the LEDs, and mounted to the housing to receive the light from the LEDs to produce signals. The signals are converted from analog to digital and input to a microprocessor. The microprocessor, employing trigonometric methods, calculates the position and orientation (i.e.

Abstract: A pointing device which is removably attachable to a keyboard is disclosed. The pointing device is coupled to an attachment assembly, the attachment assembly being removably and selectively attachable to the keyboard. The attachment assembly includes a coupling assembly and a tilting assembly. The full weight of the pointing device is supported by the computer so that a work surface is not necessary. In one embodiment, a clamping assembly is provided. The clamp assembly includes a variable width clamp to permit the pointing device to be attached to any one of a number of different keyboards or in different positions on the same keyboard. The tilting assembly permits the user to select whether the pointing device is in a horizontal, vertical or other orientation. A rotatable ball of the pointing device is retained in contact with the rotation sensing encoders regardless of the orientation of the housing.

Abstract: A computer command and pointing device that attaches directly to the computer or keyboard without the need for external electrical cables. A BallPoint.TM. mouse has a multi-axis mechanical engagement assembly that allows the mouse to be inserted into a recess in the computer or keyboard and have its weight fully supported by the engagement assembly. The engagement assembly provides tight mechanical coupling between the mouse and the recess, but permits the disconnection of the mouse if excessive force is applied to the mouse. The engagement assembly includes an electrical connector that permits the coupling of electrical signals between the mouse and the computer. The connector pins in the electrical connector are individually spring-loaded to allow the connector pins to recede into the electrical connector when force is applied. A mating electrical connector plate, mounted within the recess, is a flat plate made of an insulating material with electrically conductive pads on the surface thereof.