Abstract: Various x-y input devices are disclosed that are adapted to allow a user to hold and operate the input device with a stress-reducing, open grip posture with the thumb pointing forward and on top of the device. One preferred embodiment discloses an input device for a computer comprising an x-y input sensor (such as a touchpad) positioned perpendicular to the thumb such that the user provides input with the thumb tip by using pivotal movement of the thumb. Various stress-reducing zero force touch switches are disclosed including zero force touch switches that can be adjusted to accommodate variations in user finger length. The mode of x-y cursor control can be altered through the use of x-y input sensor perimeter inputs. One preferred embodiment discloses a thumb actuated scroll select touch switch that alters the response to actuation of the finger actuated zero force touch switches from mouse button input to scroll wheel input.
Inventors:
Casimero Augustin, Jr., Patrick Kelly, Yat Lam Lee, Timothy May, Jeffrey Muench, Jason Ness, Yuk On Chan, Christopher Owen, Louis Polk, III, Caleb Summers, Stephen N. Withers
Inventors:
Casimero Augustin, Jr., Patrick Kelly, Yat Lam Lee, Timothy May, Jeffrey Muench, Jason Ness, Yuk On Chan, Christopher Owen, Louis Polk, III, Caleb Summers, Stephen N. Withers