GB2457803A - Apparatus for controlling operation of an electronic device - Google Patents

Apparatus for controlling operation of an electronic device Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2457803A
GB2457803A GB0902860A GB0902860A GB2457803A GB 2457803 A GB2457803 A GB 2457803A GB 0902860 A GB0902860 A GB 0902860A GB 0902860 A GB0902860 A GB 0902860A GB 2457803 A GB2457803 A GB 2457803A
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GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
controller
imaging surface
relative
optical sensor
user
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
GB0902860A
Other versions
GB0902860D0 (en
Inventor
Mario Joseph Charalambous
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from GB0803571A external-priority patent/GB0803571D0/en
Priority claimed from GB0805195A external-priority patent/GB0805195D0/en
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Publication of GB0902860D0 publication Critical patent/GB0902860D0/en
Publication of GB2457803A publication Critical patent/GB2457803A/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/20—Input arrangements for video game devices
    • A63F13/21—Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types
    • A63F13/213—Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types comprising photodetecting means, e.g. cameras, photodiodes or infrared cells
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G5/00—Means for preventing, limiting or returning the movements of parts of a control mechanism, e.g. locking controlling member
    • G05G5/05—Means for returning or tending to return controlling members to an inoperative or neutral position, e.g. by providing return springs or resilient end-stops
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/20—Input arrangements for video game devices
    • A63F13/24—Constructional details thereof, e.g. game controllers with detachable joystick handles
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
    • G06F3/0202—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device
    • G06F3/0205—Lever arrangements for operating keyboard cursor control keys in a joystick-like manner
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
    • G06F3/0304—Detection arrangements using opto-electronic means
    • G06F3/0312—Detection arrangements using opto-electronic means for tracking the rotation of a spherical or circular member, e.g. optical rotary encoders used in mice or trackballs using a tracking ball or in mouse scroll wheels
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
    • G06F3/033—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/10—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game characterized by input arrangements for converting player-generated signals into game device control signals
    • A63F2300/1043—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game characterized by input arrangements for converting player-generated signals into game device control signals being characterized by constructional details
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G05G2009/0474—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks characterised by means converting mechanical movement into electric signals
    • G05G2009/04759—Light-sensitive detector, e.g. photoelectric
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G05G2009/04766—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks providing feel, e.g. indexing means, means to create counterforce

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
  • Position Input By Displaying (AREA)

Abstract

Apparatus (10) for controlling operation of an electronic device, comprising a body (20); a controller (30) moveably coupled to the body (20); optical sensor (60) for recording successive images of an imaging surface (50); and an image processor for tracking movement of the controller (30) relative to the body (20) by comparative analysis of successive images of the imaging surface (50) recorded by the optical sensor (60). The apparatus (10) can be a joystick for operating a computer or a games console and may comprise an orientation sensor in form of an accelerometer or a gyroscope. The optical sensor (60) is configured record an image of the user's fingerprint.

Description

TITLE: APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING OPERATION OF
AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE
DESCRI PTION
The present invention relates generally to apparatus for controlling operation of an electronic device and particularly, but not exclusively, to an improved joystick controller for operating a computer or games console.
Joystick controllers have been in use for many years and are mainly used for playing games. Conventional joystick controllers generally use electromechanical sensors to convert movement of a joystick lever into an electrical signal capable of representing the position of the joystick lever relative to a base of the joystick controller. However, optical joystick controllers are also known in the art such as those disclosed in US 2003/0193415, Us 4533827 and Us 6300940. Despite potentially offering advantages in terms of extended
I
mechanical life and reduced bulk, the optical joysticks proposed in the art are compromised by either limited control sensitivity or by high complexity.
The present applicant has identified the need for an improved controller that overcomes or at least alleviates problems associated with optical joysticks known in the art.
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided apparatus for controlling operation of an electronic device, comprising: a body; a controller moveably coupled to the body; optical sensor means for recording successive images of an imaging surface; and image processing means for tracking movement of the controller relative to the body by comparative analysis of successive images of the imaging surface recorded by the optical sensor means.
The apparatus may be configured for use in controlling devices such as a computer or games console. In one embodiment, the apparatus may be configured for use in a mobile telephone or other such mobile communications device.
The controller may be pivotable relative to the body about a first axis. The controller may be further pivotable relative to a second axis substantially orthogonal to the first axis. The first and second axes may each be substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the controller when the controller is in a neutral position relative to the body. The imaging surface may be
S
configured to allow linear movement of a part of the controller to be tracked along at the first and second axes. In this way, a controller is provided that is capable of offering two-dimensional control equivalent to a conventional electromechanical joystick controller.
In one embodiment, the controller is further rotatable relative to the body about the longitudinal axis. The image processing means may be configured to track rotational movement of the controller relative to the body by comparative analysis of successive images of the imaging surface recorded by the optical sensor means. In this way, a controller may be provided that is capable of offering rotational controller in addition to the two-dimensional control described above (i.e. to provide three-dimensional control).
The apparatus may further comprise a light source for illuminating the imaging surface. In one embodiment, the light source comprises a light emitting diode. In another embodiment, the light source comprises a laser. In another embodiment, the light source comprises fibre optic means.
In one embodiment, the imaging surface is formed on the body. The optical sensor means may be positioned on the controller.
In another embodiment, the imaging surface is formed on the controller. The optical sensor means may be positioned on the body.
The imaging surface may be a substantially curved surface. For example, the imaging surface may be domed
S
such that spacing between the optical sensor means and the surface remains substantially constant as the controller moves relative to the body (i.e. with a radius of curvature centred about the pivot point of the controller).
The controller may be resiliently biased in a central position relative to the body. In an alternative embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise friction means for maintaining the controller in one of a plurality of positions relative to the body. This latter embodiment may be of particular use where the apparatus is intended for use a trackball-type controller. The friction means may comprise one or more felt pads configured to offer resistance against the movement of the controller relative to the body.
In one embodiment, the controller comprises a hand-operable lever. In this way, the controller may be configured for use as a joystick.
In another embodiment, the controller comprises a finger-operable element. For example, the controller may comprise a hat switch or a control pad. In another embodiment, the finger-operable element comprises a domed cap. In this way, the apparatus may take the form of an optical trackball.
The controller may further be configured to operate as a pressure-sensitive switch. For example, in the case of a controller comprising a finger-operable element, the finger-operable element may be linearly moveable relative to the body (e.g. moveable in a downward direction towards
S
a base part of the body) in order to activate an electromechanical switch. In this way, the apparatus may be configured to allow a user to readily alter a configuration of the apparatus (e.g. to select control of a different feature of the electronic device) without having to take their hands of the apparatus.
The apparatus may be further configured to provide fingerprint recognition. For example, the optical sensor means may be further configured to record an image of a user's fingerprint. In one embodiment, the controller comprises a transparent (e.g. translucent) part configured to allow the optical sensor means to record an image of a user's fingerprint when a user places a finger over the transparent part. In this way, the apparatus may be configured to operate only when an authorised user is determined to be using the apparatus.
The apparatus may yet further comprise means for determining a change in the orientation of the body of the apparatus relative to a user. For example, the apparatus may further comprise accelerometer means or gyroscope means. In this way, the apparatus may be capable of providing a control input in addition to the control input derived from determining movement of the controller relative to the body.
Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1A is a schematic cross-sectional side view showing a first joystick controller embodying the present invention in a neutral and a first operative position; Figure lB is a schematic cross-sectional side view showing the joystick controller of Figure lA in the neutral and a second operative position; Figure 2A is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a further joystick controller embodying the present invention; Figure 2B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a yet further joystick controller embodying the present invention; Figure 2C is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a yet further joystick controller embodying the present invention; Figure 3A is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a hat switch controller embodying the present invention; Figure 3B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a further hat switch controller embodying the present invention; Figure 3C is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a yet further hat switch controller embodying the present invention; Figure 3D is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a yet further hat switch controller embodying the present invention; Figure 3E is a schematic plan view of the domed element of the hat switch controller of Figure 3D; Figure 4A is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a further joystick controller in accordance with the present invention; and Figure 4B is a schematic cross-sectional plan view of the joystick controller of Figure 4A.
S Figures 1A and lB shows an optical joystick controller comprising a body or housing 20, an elongate lever controller 30 pivotally coupled to the body 20 by means of a joint mechanism 40, and a convex domed imaging surface 50 coupled to a first end of the lever controller 30. A second end of the lever controller 30 is configured to receive a handle (not shown) for a user to grip whilst operating the joystick controller 10. The Joystick controller further comprises at least one trigger button (also not shown) as typically provided with a conventional joystick controller.
Joint mechanism 40 comprises a ball joint 42 configured to allow lever controller 30 to pivot relative to the body 20 about two orthogonal axes (x and y).
Figures lA and lB show in broken lines the lever controller 30 in two different operative positions angularly spaced about the x axis. The joint mechanism 40 further comprises a bearing assembly 44 to allow rotation of the lever controller 30 about its longitudinal axis (z).
Movement of the lever controller 30 is tracked by means of an optical mechanism 60 mounted to the body 20.
The optical mechanism 60 comprises a laser light source incident on the imaging surface 50, an optical sensor for receiving laser light reflected by the imaging surface 50
S
and recording successive images of the imaging surface 50, and an image processor for tracking movement of the lever controller 30 relative to the body 20 by comparative analysis of successive images of the imaging surface 50 S recorded by the optical sensor means. Accordingly, the optical mechanism 60 utilizes the advanced tracking mechanism used in current optical mice (e.g. laser mice), the operation of which will be well known to the person skilled in the art.
In use, the image processor of the optical mechanism is configured to track pivotal movement (i.e. about the x and y axes), together with rotational movement (i.e. around the z axis), of the lever controller 30 relative to the body 20 by comparative analysis of successive images of the imaging surface 50 recorded by the optical sensor. In this way, the joystick controller 10 is configured to offer three-dimensional optical tracking of the lever controller 30.
Figures 2A-2C show joystick controllers 10', 10'' and 10''' respectively. Joystick controllers 10', 10'', 10''' are based on joystick controller 10 but further comprise biasing means 70 respectively for biasing the lever controller 30', 30'' and 30''' in the neutral position as shown. Biasing means 70 comprises a first spring assembly 72 for biasing the lever controller 30' 30'', 30''' about the x and y axes, and a second spring assembly (not shown) mounted in the bearing assembly 44', 44'', 44''' for biasing the lever controller 30' 30'', 30''' about the longitudinal or z axis. The first spring assembly 72 in joystick controller 10' is mounted in the body 20' below a plane defined by the x and y axes, whereas the first spring assembly 72 in joystick controllers 10'' and 10''' is mounted above the plane defined by the x and y axes. As shown, the entire biasing means 70 in joystick controller 10'' is mounted in the body 20' whereas the first spring assembly 72 in joystick controller 10''' is mounted externally of its respective body 20'', 20'''.
Figure 3A shows an optical hat switch controller (or "optical trackball") 110 comprising a body or housing 120, a controller in the form of a finger-operable domed element pivotally coupled to the body 120 by means of a joint mechanism 140. The domed element 130 comprises an outer convex domed surface 132 similar to a part of the ball of a trackball and an inner concave domed imaging surface 150.
The hat switch controller further comprises at least one trigger button (also not shown) as typically provided with a conventional controller.
Joint mechanism 140 comprises a ball joint 142 configured to allow domed element 130 to pivot relative to the body 120 about two orthogonal axes (x and y). The joint mechanism 140 further comprises a bearing assembly 144 to allow rotation of the domed element 130 about its longitudinal axis (z), i.e. an axis substantially orthogonal to the x and y axes when the domed element is in the neutral position illustrated in Figure 3A.
Movement of the domed element 130 is tracked by means
S
of an optical mechanism 160 mounted to shaft 122 on the body 120. The optical mechanism 160 comprises a laser light source incident on the imaging surface 150, an optical sensor for receiving laser light reflected by the imaging surface 150 and recording successive images of the imaging surface 150, and an image processor for tracking movement of the domed element 130 relative to the body 120 by comparative analysis of successive images of the imaging surface 150 recorded by the optical sensor means.
In use, the image processor of the optical mechanism is configured to track pivotal movement (i.e. about the x and y axes), together with rotational movement (i.e. around the z axis), of the domed element 130 relative to the body 120 by comparative analysis of successive images of the imaging surface 150 recorded by the optical sensor.
In this way, the hat switch controller 110 is configured to offer three-dimensional optical tracking of the domed element 130. The hat switch controller 110 may be used in place of a conventional hat switch, trackball or directional control pad. Accordingly, hat switch controller 110 may be particularly useful as an input device on a mobile communications device (e.g. mobile telephone) or as a finger-operable controller for playing computer games.
Hat switch controller 110 further includes biasing means 170 for biasing the domed element 130 in the neutral position as shown. Biasing means 170 comprises a first spring assembly 172 mounted to the body 120 below a plane defined by the x and y axes for biasing the domed element about the x arid y axes, and a second spring assembly (not shown) mounted in the bearing assembly 144 for biasing the domed element 130 about the longitudinal or z axis.
Figures 3B and 3C show two further hat switch controllers 110' and 110'' respectively, each based on hat switch controller 110. Hat switch controller 110' also includes biasing means 170' for biasing the domed element 130' in the neutral position as shown comprising first and second spring assemblies, but the first spring assembly 172' is mounted to the body 120' above a plane defined by the x and y axes. Hat switch controller 110'' includes biasing means 170'' for biasing the domed element 130'' in the neutral position as shown comprising an annular rubber member or bush 176 mounted to ball joint 142''.
Advantageously, the use of rubber member 176 provides the same biasing action as the first and second spring assemblies of hat switch controllers 110 and 110' but with fewer parts.
Figures 3D and 3E a further hat switch controller 110''' based closely on the hat switch controller 110. Hat switch controller 110''' includes a finger-operable domed element 130''' comprising an uppermost transparent part 131 configured to allow optical mechanism 160''' to record an image of a user's fingerprint when a user places a finger over the transparent part. In use, hat switch controller 110''' may be used with security means configured to restrict use of the controller 110''' in dependence upon
I
user identity.
Figures 4A and 4B shows a further optical joystick controller 210 comprising a body or housing 220, an elongate lever controller 230 pivotally coupled to the body 220 by means of a joint mechanism 240, and a concave domed imaging surface 250 coupled to the body 220.
Movement of the lever controller 230 is tracked by means of an optical mechanism 260 mounted to a first end of the lever controller 230 and electrically connected to the body 220 via cable 265. As in previously described embodiment, the optical mechanism 260 comprises a laser light source incident on the imaging surface 250, an optical sensor for receiving laser light reflected by the imaging surface 250 and recording successive images of the imaging surface 250, and an image processor for tracking movement of the lever controller 230 relative to the body 220 by comparative analysis of successive images of the imaging surface 250 recorded by the optical sensor means.
A second end of the lever controller 230 is configured to receive a handle (not shown) for a user to grip whilst operating the joystick controller 210. The Joystick controller further comprises at least one trigger button (also not shown) as typically provided with a conventional joystick controller.
Joint mechanism 240 comprises a ball joint 242 configured to allow lever controller 230 to pivot relative to the body 220 about two orthogonal axes (x and y). The joint mechanism 240 further comprises a bearing assembly 244 to allow rotation of the lever controller 230 about its longitudinal axis (z).
Joystick controller 210 further comprises first and second servos 280, 290 for biasing the lever controller 230 in neutral position (as shown in Figure. 4A) and/or providing feedback to the joystick controller (e.g. to represent texture as a user runs a cursor over a CAD drawing).

Claims (20)

  1. ICLAIMS: 1. Apparatus for controlling operation of an electronic device, comprising: a body; a controller moveably coupled to the body; optical sensor means for recording successive images of an imaging surface; and image processing means for tracking movement of the controller relative to the body by comparative analysis of successive images of the imaging surface recorded by the optical sensor means.
  2. 2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller is pivotable relative to the body about a first axis.
  3. 3. Apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the controller is further pivotable relative to a second axis substantially orthogonal to the first axis.
  4. 4. Apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the first and second axes are each substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the controller when the controller is in a neutral position relative to the body.
  5. 5. Apparatus according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the imaging surface is configured to allow linear movement of a part of the controller to be tracked along the first andIsecond axes.
  6. 6. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the controller is further rotatable relative to the body about the longitudinal axis.
  7. 7. Apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the image processing means is configured to track rotational movement of the controller relative to the body by comparative analysis of successive images of the imaging surface recorded by the optical sensor means.
  8. 8. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus comprises a light source for illuminating the imaging surface.
  9. 9. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the imaging surface is formed on the body.
  10. 10. Apparatus according to any of claims 1-8, wherein the imaging surface is formed on the controller.
  11. 11. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the imaging surface is a substantially curved surface.
  12. 12. Apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the imaging surface is domed such that spacing between the optical
    Isensor means and the surface remains substantially constant as the controller moves relative to the body
  13. 13. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the controller is resiliently biased in a central position relative to the body.
  14. 14. Apparatus according to any of claims 1-12, further comprising friction means for maintaining the controller in one of a plurality of positions relative to the body.
  15. 15. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the controller comprises one of: a hand-operable lever; and a finger-operable element.
  16. 16. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the controller is further configured to operate as a pressure-sensitive switch.
  17. 17. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the optical sensor means is further configured to record an image of a user's fingerprint.
  18. 18. Apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the controller comprises a transparent part configured to allow the optical sensor means to record an image of a user's fingerprint when a user places a finger over the transparent part.I
  19. 19. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus further comprises means for determining a change in the orientation of the body of the apparatus relative to a user.
  20. 20. Apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the means is one of: accelerometer means; and gyroscope means.
GB0902860A 2008-02-27 2009-02-20 Apparatus for controlling operation of an electronic device Withdrawn GB2457803A (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0803571A GB0803571D0 (en) 2008-02-27 2008-02-27 Apparatus for dontrolling operation of an electronical device
GB0805195A GB0805195D0 (en) 2008-03-20 2008-03-20 Apparatus for controlling operation of an electronic device

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
GB0902860D0 GB0902860D0 (en) 2009-04-08
GB2457803A true GB2457803A (en) 2009-09-02

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GB0902860A Withdrawn GB2457803A (en) 2008-02-27 2009-02-20 Apparatus for controlling operation of an electronic device

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3309114A1 (en) * 2016-10-13 2018-04-18 The Raymond Corporation Handle position sensing systems and methods for a material handling vehicle

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US20050009605A1 (en) * 2003-07-11 2005-01-13 Rosenberg Steven T. Image-based control of video games
WO2006045934A1 (en) * 2004-10-22 2006-05-04 Commissariat A L'energie Atomique Stand-alone device, system and method for navigating in a space having at least three dimensions
EP1674959A2 (en) * 2004-12-22 2006-06-28 Delphi Technologies, Inc. Joystick sensor with two-dimensional image sensing
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