Abstract: An example of the present invention as disclosed herein provides an improved user interface input device that enables a person to slide his or her digit or other indicator over a surface between a neutral and a discrete touch sensor position. Sliding a digit such as a finger requires much less concentration and precision of movement as compared to lifting and lowering a finger when activating a conventional key, and thus is characterized by ease of operation. Motion and speed selection for the user interface starts only after the finger is moved over the discrete touch sensors, and hence the mental and muscular coordination strain felt by users of a conventional mouse or other user interface input device is minimized or greatly reduced.

Abstract: A voice input system has a microphone coupled to a computing device, with the computing device typically operating a computer software application. A user speaks voice commands into the microphone, with the computing device operating a voice command module that interprets the voice command and causes the graphical or non-graphical application to be commanded and controlled consistent with the use of a physical mouse. In one form of the invention, voice commands are overlayed on normal command points of the application program. Such voice commands are stored in a separate voice command repository, with an edit mode provided to create new voice command sequences and to edit existing voice command sequences.

Abstract: An apparatus for cutting soil and constructing sub-surface containment barriers, such as for constructing subsurface containment walls or basins around and under contaminated soils, comprises an elongated beam for abutting an extended length of soil. The beam comprises a cutting assembly that creates a cutting action against the extended length of abutting soil. The cutting assembly preferably comprises a conduit containing a plurality of jet ports through which high pressure fluid is ejected to impact the soil to be cut. The cutting assembly is maintained adjacent to the face of the soil to be cut. A method of cutting soil comprises generating cutting action along an extended locus of soil, and advancing the cutting action along a descending locus of the soil in response to gravity, or along a path determined by pre-placed pulling assemblies. Subsurface containment barriers are formed by when a jetted slurry or other suitable material cuts and mixes with the soil.