WO1995000897A1 - Dispositif de manipulation d'un curseur - Google Patents

Dispositif de manipulation d'un curseur Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1995000897A1
WO1995000897A1 PCT/NO1994/000113 NO9400113W WO9500897A1 WO 1995000897 A1 WO1995000897 A1 WO 1995000897A1 NO 9400113 W NO9400113 W NO 9400113W WO 9500897 A1 WO9500897 A1 WO 9500897A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
finger
movement
cursor
signal generating
plate
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/NO1994/000113
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Steinar Pedersen
Original Assignee
Steinar Pedersen
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
Application filed by Steinar Pedersen filed Critical Steinar Pedersen
Priority to AU70862/94A priority Critical patent/AU7086294A/en
Publication of WO1995000897A1 publication Critical patent/WO1995000897A1/fr

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Classifications

    • 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
    • G06F3/038—Control and interface arrangements therefor, e.g. drivers or device-embedded control circuitry
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1615—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with several enclosures having relative motions, each enclosure supporting at least one I/O or computing function
    • G06F1/1616—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with several enclosures having relative motions, each enclosure supporting at least one I/O or computing function with folding flat displays, e.g. laptop computers or notebooks having a clamshell configuration, with body parts pivoting to an open position around an axis parallel to the plane they define in closed position
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1633—Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
    • G06F1/1684—Constructional details or arrangements related to integrated I/O peripherals not covered by groups G06F1/1635 - G06F1/1675
    • G06F1/169—Constructional details or arrangements related to integrated I/O peripherals not covered by groups G06F1/1635 - G06F1/1675 the I/O peripheral being an integrated pointing device, e.g. trackball in the palm rest area, mini-joystick integrated between keyboard keys, touch pads or touch stripes
    • 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
    • G06F3/021—Arrangements integrating additional peripherals in a keyboard, e.g. card or barcode reader, optical scanner
    • G06F3/0213—Arrangements providing an integrated pointing device in a keyboard, e.g. trackball, mini-joystick
    • 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
    • G06F3/0354—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
    • 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
    • G06F3/041—Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
    • G06F3/042—Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by opto-electronic means
    • G06F3/0421—Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by opto-electronic means by interrupting or reflecting a light beam, e.g. optical touch-screen

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an input device intended for the positioning and control of the screen cursor of computers utilising software with a graphic user interface.
  • a mouse is a small, hand-held tool that generates a position signal when moved on top of a surface.
  • a graphic symbol on the computer display (cursor, marker, pointer, arrow, etc.) mimics the mouse's motion in the form of a congruent track on the screen.
  • the computer user can effectuate commands like "open file”, “erase text”, “check spelling”, “draw square”, “save document”, etc., or move the cursor to a position on the screen where a particular operation is to be performed.
  • the mouse is presently the most versatile and commonly used input device on the market. Its main component is a rubber-clad ball resting on two cylinders or rollers that are mounted at right angles to each other. When the mouse is moved across a surface, the ball will, as a consequence of its contact with the surface, rotate in the direction of the movement. This movement is split into two components as a result of the ball's interaction with the two cylinders, i.e. its X-component and its Y-component in an X-Y plane.
  • the cylinders' individual rotations are registered electronically (e.g. by means of an encoder) , giving rise to a signal which is transformed by the processor and a mini-program (device driver) to cursor-movement on the screen.
  • a movement of the mouse (and accordingly the ball) in an X-Y plane on the surface will elicit a corresponding movement of the cursor in the X-Y plane on the screen.
  • Modern microprocessors are extremely fast, and the time limiting factor in information processing is generally not the processor itself but the speed of information input. This is particularly the case when information is fed via a keyboard or other hand-operated input device, such as a mouse.
  • a) Mouse as described above (Microsoft, Logitech, Agiler, IBM, etc.)
  • Track-ball utilising the same electro-mechanical principle as the mouse, but the cursor is controlled by the thumb moving a ball that is resting on the two cylinders (Microsoft's Ball Point Mouse; IBM's Trackpoint; Appoint ' ⁇ Thumbelina; Logitech's Trackman Portable; Kraft System's Top-Track; Apple's PowerBook track ball, etc.)
  • Optical mouse operated in the same way as the mouse, but the movement is registered optically, e.g.
  • Pen mouse By use of a reflecting mat (Mouse Systems Corp., etc.) d) Pen mouse; using the same electro-mechanical principle as the mouse, but the ball and the cylinders are incorporated in the "tip" of a pen ⁇ like tool (Appoint 's MousePen Professional, etc.) e) Arrow-keys (present on all computers with keyboard; minimum 4 keys) f) Digitalisation board; plate with separate pen tool, where information regarding the pen-tip's position relative to the plate is registered and transmitted to the computer in digitised form (Summasketch, etc. ) g) Joy-stick or directional button; tool which can be bent or pushed in different directions relative to a perpendicular, normal position.
  • Some of these input devices are particularly developed for portable computers (including laptop- and notebook- PC's) .
  • the aforementioned input devices have a number of deficiencies and drawbacks. The most important are the following: 1) The movement of the mouse across a surface is guided by muscles that are not trained for very precise manoeuvring. Accordingly, the accompanying movement of the screen cursor is not particularly precise. While the mouse's precision is sufficient for most practical purposes, it is not very well suited for graphics and free-hand drawing. The mouse as a separate entity has furthermore limited applicability in conjunction with portable computers (laptops and palmtops) . Further, time is lost in ensuring precise positioning of the cursor over icons or symbols, in giving commands and in switching between keyboard input and mouse input.
  • the optical mouse gives a somewhat better precision than the ball-mouse, but relies upon guidance by the same muscle groups.
  • the optical mouse requires, in addition, a stiff, reflecting plate as support (approx. 20 x 20 cm) .
  • the pen-mouse offers initially better precision, as the user utilises the same muscles as are used for writing.
  • this pointing device is very sensitive to dirt and wear, and therefore gives a less precise movement of the cursor after a short time in use.
  • the Digitalisation board is well suited for graphical work, but is not particularly useful for interactive communication with the computer, e.g. for activation of program functions. It is also expensive.
  • the light pen is developed for use with specially designed equipment, and it is not particularly suited for modern program interaction and for graphical work.
  • the input device should
  • a cursor control device comprising a finger-grippable member, said member being mounted so as to be movable in all directions within a co-ordinate plane; said device further comprising first signal generating means for detecting movement of said member within said co ⁇ ordinate plane and for translating said movement to electronic signals indicative thereof, said signals being provided to a cursor control means for moving the cursor an amount proportional to the amount of movement of the finger-grippable member; wherein said device further comprises second signal generating means responsive to a force applied to said finger-grippable member or to another part of the device, said second signal generating means being operable independently of said first signal generating means and comprising a time-proportional system wherein the length of cursor movement is dependent upon the duration of application of said force.
  • the finger-grippable member is preferably a short handle that is operated like a pen.
  • the invention benefits from the writing and drawing abilities of the hand for a rapid and controlled movement of the handle, and consequently the cursor.
  • the device incorporates two separate signal generating systems which can operate independently.
  • the distance moved by the cursor is proportional to the distance moved by part of the device.
  • the paths of movement of the device part and the cursor are generally congruent.
  • This first system is generally referred to as the "length-proportional system”.
  • the length of cursor movement is dependent upon the duration of command execution (e.g. pushing, bending, lifting or depressing part of the device) .
  • the length of cursor movement is proportional to the duration of command execution.
  • the length of cursor movement may be dependent on the duration of command execution, on the force applied or on the degree of bending a device part relative to its normal position.
  • the second system is generally referred to as the "time- proportional" or the "time/force-proportional" system.
  • the handle as employed in the present invention is in preferred embodiments mounted to, or can be attached to a movable plate support that is incorporated in the device itself.
  • This construction combines robustness with precision, with the additional possibility of miniaturisation and integration in different computer sizes.
  • the user using a pen-type, finger-grippable handle, the user, in a similar way as with the pen-mouse and the Digitalisation board, is encouraged to utilise the hand's long-term training in writing and drawing.
  • the pen-type handle is not attached to, but is allowed to move freely within a confined area on the surface of a stationary- plate support.
  • the length-proportional signal generating system may be realised in several different ways, any of which may be preferable depending upon the particular application.
  • the first signal generating system may be, e.g., a roller-based system, similar to that used in the mouse.
  • the movement of the device (or rather, a device part) in the X-Y co-ordinate plane may be detected using an optical sensing system which detects light from emitters reflected from an optical grid system. The optical signals are converted into electrical signals indicative of the position or movement of the cursor control device in the X-Y plane.
  • the time/force-proportional system may also be effected in different ways.
  • Pressure sensors may be used to detect a directed force applied to part of the device, e.g. a ring constituting the outer physical limit of the handle's movement area.
  • an optical system may be used to detect a tilting movement of a device part.
  • a handle is mounted in a plate support via a resilient collar which transmits lateral movement to the plate but permits a degree of tilt of the handle.
  • the degree of tilt may be detected by force sensors or by an optical angle-measuring arrangement.
  • the handle's active area is circular in all preferred embodiments, although it can also have other forms (square or rectangular, with or without rounded corners; oval, etc. )
  • Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a cursor control device according to the present invention
  • Fig. 2 shows a cursor control device incorporated in a portable computer
  • Fig. 3 shows the cursor control device as a separate unit
  • Fig. 4 shows the cursor control device in different positions
  • Fig. 4A shows the handle or finger-grippable member in the middle of the circular active area
  • Fig. 4B and Fig. 4C show the effect of moving the handle to different positions within the active area
  • Fig. 4D illustrates the effect of using the second signal generating system
  • Fig. 5 shows the use of an electromechanical roller movement detection system
  • Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B are sections in plan and elevation showing a preferred embodiment of the electromechanical system
  • Fig. 7A and Fig 7B are a vertical cross-section and plan view showing the switching function of the device according to a preferred embodiment
  • Fig. 8 is a sectional view of a roller-based system, incorporating a second signal generating system in the handle;
  • Fig. 9A is a detailed view of a preferred embodiment of the second signal generating system and Fig 9B shows in plan the arrangement of pressures;
  • Figs. 10A-D illustrate the different modes of operation of the device
  • Figs. 11A and 11B show in elevation and plan a preferred arrangement of pressure detectors for use as the second signal generating system
  • Fig. 12 shows a similar embodiment to Fig. 11 using different dimensions
  • Fig. 13 shows the embodiment of Fig. 12 incorporated in a lap-top computer.
  • Fig. 14 shows how the pressure detectors can be expanded and incorporated in a sensing area
  • Fig. 15 shows a cross-section of a cursor control device of the present invention using an opto-electrical movement detecting system.
  • Figs. 16A-C show part of the system shown in Fig. 15; Figs. 17A-C show side views of different positions of the second signal generating system;
  • Fig. 18 shows a top view of an opto-electrical signal generating system detecting pivotal movement of the finger-grippable member.
  • Fig. 19 shows an alternative second signal generating system for detecting pivotal movement of the finger- grippable member
  • Fig. 20 shows a different embodiment of the opto- electrical system
  • Fig. 21 shows a preferred position of the cursor input device relative to a computer keyboard
  • Fig. 22 is a sectional view of the cursor control device shown in Fig. 21;
  • Figs. 23A and 23B show a further embodiment of the cursor control device of the present invention.
  • Fig. 24 shows the embodiment of Fig. 23 incorporated in a computer.
  • Fig. 1 shows a cursor control device 1, in accordance with the invention, consisting of a finger-grip 2 and a circular plate support or base plate 3 incorporated in a computer or device chassis 4.
  • the diameter of the visible part of the base plate 3, which is approximately equal to the active area of the finger-grip, may be between about 0.5 cm to 8 cm and is typically between 1 cm and 4 cm. (Other embodiments of the invention may utilise other technical solutions where the base plate is partly or totally obscured, and where the relationship between the active area and the visible part of the base plate is different from the one cited.)
  • the cursor control device 1 can be incorporated in a portable computer as shown in Fig. 2 or can be a separate unit as shown in Fig. 3. In the latter case, the device may be connected to a computer by a cable, by infra-red transmission, by other electromagnetic transmission or as a plug-in module for keyboards or PC's.
  • the circular, visible part of the base plate 3 shown in Fig. 4A corresponds to the active area of the finger-grip 2. This area corresponds to the circular area 6 on the computer screen 5 in which the cursor 7 is permitted to move in response to finger- grip movement, while just the first, length-proportional system is in operation.
  • Fig. 4B shows the effect of moving the finger-grip 2 to the "8 o'clock” position within the active area, resulting in a similar movement of the cursor 7.
  • Fig. 4C the cursor 7 is moved to the "2 o'clock” position by moving the finger-grip 2 diametrically across the active area.
  • Fig. 4D illustrates the second signal-generating system (the time/force-proportional system) in operation.
  • this system is activated by pushing the finger-grip 2 against the physical limit of the active area. The effect of this is that the screen cursor 7 is moved beyond the circular screen area 6 in the same direction as the applied force F. The cursor will continue to move in the same direction as long as the applied force is maintained or until the finger-grip 2 is pushed in another direction.
  • One of the sub-systems constituting the input device is shown schematically in Fig. 5.
  • a finger-grippable member in the form of a handle 2 is attached to a circular plate 3 resting on two rollers 20 which are mounted at right angles to each other. A movement by the handle 2 in the X-Y plane will be split in an X- and a Y- component as the movement of the plate 3 is transformed into a rotation of the two rollers 20.
  • the device may incorporate two extra support-rollers as shown in Figs. 6A-B. However, only two of the four rollers (the position-rollers) are connected to signal-generating components.
  • Fig. 6B shows a side view of this sub-system (which is incorporated in all roller-based varieties of the input device) .
  • Fig. 6A shows an optimal configuration of four rollers 20 to give maximum support and ease of movement to the base plate 3. (Two of the rollers may be substituted by non-movable, supporting structures of equal height) .
  • Two of the rollers positioned at a right angle to each other are connected to encoders 21.
  • FIG. 6B shows a side view of the roller-based signal generating system, where the rollers 20 and the chassis 4 act as movement guides for the base plate 3.
  • the finger-grip 2 can be moved freely in all directions, and the grip can be pushed and pulled and thereby attain different vertical positions.
  • a switch in the handle 2 will disconnect communication or give specific signals to the computer and the software.
  • the handle or finger-grip 2 comprises an outer shell attached to an inner "piston" 11 which can be moved vertically within a cylinder 12 attached to the base plate 3 via a flexible, profiled ring or collar 18.
  • a projection or lip 13 on the inside of the cylinder 12 limits the vertical movement of the piston 11.
  • the profiled ring 18 is made of a durable, elastic polymer and attaches the finger-grip 2 to the base plate 3 at the same time permitting pivotal movement of the grip 2.
  • the piston 11 actuates a plunger 16 of microswitch 17.
  • a signal that is generated as a result of roller movements will be sent to the computer.
  • the switch in the "0-position” e.g. an upper position
  • the handle 2 can be moved horizontally without transmitting any signals to the computer. (This is equivalent to lifting the mouse from the support and putting it down in a new position.)
  • an "activator position” e.g. a lower position, an extra signal is generated in addition to the positioning signal, which is equivalent to pressing one of the push- buttons of the mouse.
  • it is incorporated in the handle 2. This is advantageous in that activation and deactivation signals can be given to the computer without changing the grip.
  • a potential demand for more than three switch positions can be satisfied by equipping the switch with more than three positions, or by incorporating extra switches elsewhere on the handle or on the device.
  • the "normal position" of the switch is a mechanically preferred one. This can be achieved e.g. by incorporating stop devices.
  • the handle 2 can be equipped with spring systems allowing for -an automatic return to a central position when not in operation.
  • the handle 2 itself can be equipped with a variety of functions and be given different shapes according to its particular use. In one embodiment of the invention it has the form of a pen.
  • the "pen-handle” can be moved freely within the active area using a conventional writing technique.
  • the utility of the input device would be limited if the movement of the cursor was restricted by the finger-grip being confined to the said, active area. This would be the case if only the first, length-proportional system was available.
  • the presently described input device solves this problem by incorporating a second, time/force-proportional system.
  • These two systems operate independently, and in some embodiments simultaneously irrespectively of the handle position and without the user having to change grip.
  • This translational movement can e.g. be achieved as a result of pushing the handle 2 against the physical barrier constituting the outer limit of the circular, active area (Figs.4D, 10B-C) or pushing sideways along the surface of a surrounding pressure-sensitive area (Fig. 10D) .
  • the reason why these actions cause a movement of the "action-circle" is that connected to the handle or the rim are mounted pressure-sensitive sensors or similar devices that detect a horizontal, directed force applied to the handle or to the said surrounding area.
  • the vectorial force F can be detected by employing sensors that are arranged in different configurations.
  • sensors that are arranged in different configurations.
  • four pressure-sensors 25 are used.
  • the cylinder of the finger-grip 2 penetrates base plate 3 via a flexible ring 24.
  • the grip is restricted in its movement by a sleeve or washer 23 on the upper side and a circular plate 26 on the lower side of the base plate 3.
  • the pressure sensors 25 are located between the circular plate 26 and the base plate 3.
  • the detectors may be based upon piezo-electric crystals, pressure-dependent capacitors or other systems known in the art.
  • a pivotal movement of the finger-grip 2 will generate signals of varying strength from the four sensors 25 and these signals can be transformed to information about the direction and force of bending of the finger-grippable element.
  • Other systems known to be used in joy-sticks and similar devices can also be used for this purpose.
  • the four sensors 27 are placed between the outer edge of an inflexible ring 28 and the computer chassis 4. (The sensors themselves will be incorporated in the device and hidden from view, but are shown explicitly in Figs. 11B and 12 to indicate their position.)
  • the ring 28 surrounds the active area around the finger-grip 2. When the grip 2 is pushed against the ring 28, the sensors 27 will detect direction and force applied to the grip.
  • FIG. 12 A similar construction is shown in Fig. 12. However, in this construction, the dimension and position of the surrounding ring 29 is different. This system can be operated independently of the rest of the device, by dragging or pushing the ring 29 by means of the fingers. The ring 29 does not actually move but the detectors 27 sense the frictional force applied in a particular direction. The surface of the ring 29 should preferably be covered by a rubber-type material.
  • Fig 13 shows the application of this embodiment to a lap-top computer
  • Fig. 14 shows how the sensor area can be expanded.
  • the sensors will generate an electrical signal which, depending upon which of the four sensors are affected, and the magnitude of the pressure, will be transformed to a signal that gives information on both direction and force.
  • This signal will be transformed by the device driver to a continuous movement of the screen cursor, characterised by a specific direction and optionally, speed.
  • the cursor When the handle is pushed against the inner surface of the ring in a certain direction, the cursor is moved continuously in the same direction as long as the pressure is maintained. This will move the action circle of the cursor to a desired position on the screen. Thereafter, a more precise manoeuvring of the cursor can be performed using the length-proportional system.
  • a compounded cursor movement is obtained.
  • the thumb and the index finger take care of the "fine” manoeuvring of the pen, while the arm “pulls” the hand across the paper with the result that the drawing or written line attains the intended dimensions.
  • An embodiment suitable for this mode of operation is shown in Fig. 14.
  • the device uses an optical or opto- electrical signal generating system.
  • the two different control modes of the device are realised by two opto-electrical signal generating systems, one responding to a horizontal movement of the base plate and the other responding to a pivotal movement of the handle.
  • Fig.15 shows a device according to such an embodiment, incorporated in the chassis 4 or keyboard of a personal computer.
  • the control device is located in a recess in the keyboard which has sloping walls giving room to grip the handle 2 and move it in all directions.
  • the finger-grippable handle 2 and opto- electrical signal generating means are mounted on the base plate 3.
  • the handle or finger-grip 2 comprises an outer shell attached to an inner "piston" 11 which can be moved vertically within a cylinder 12 attached to the base plate 3 via a flexible, profiled ring or collar 18.
  • a projection or lip 13 on the inside of the cylinder 12 limits the vertical movement of the piston 11.
  • the profiled ring 18 is made of a durable, elastic polymer and attaches the finger-grip 2 to the base plate 3 at the same time permitting pivotal movement of the grip 2.
  • a micro-switch 17 connected to the piston 11 is used for interrupting signal transmission when the finger-grip 2 is pulled upwards and sending an activation signal to the computer when the finger-grip 2 is pushed downwards.
  • the time/force-proportional system comprises an optical sensor 32 mounted on the base plate 3 and a horizontal light guide 35 guiding light from a light emitter 36 towards the optical sensor 32.
  • the light guide 35 is preferably circular although four tubular guides arranged in the form of a cross may also be used.
  • the light guide 32 is composed of two parallel plates 34 and the space between the plates 34 is filled with air or some other transparent medium such as glass, polymers, etc.
  • the light guide 32 may also be equipped with a system of lenses, focusing, dispersing or otherwise guiding the light according to a desired pattern.
  • a stop 33 prevents the light guide 35 from being tilted beyond the optimum position for maximum illumination of the sensor 32.
  • the light emitter 36 may be an infra-red emitter or similar light-emitting lamp providing radiation with a uniform spatial distribution. Although a single emitter is shown, providing radiation for all of the opto- electrical systems, this can be replaced by several emitters positioned opposite each of the light sensors.
  • the length-proportional system comprises a vertical light guide 37 guiding light from the emitter past a light splitter 38 via a lens 39, down to a reflecting grid 41 and reflects light up to the sensors 40.
  • These light sensors 40 detect the guided light and detect changes in illumination caused by the light beam travelling across a grid 41 of reflecting and non- reflecting areas after the base plate 3 is moved horizontally. This will create an output signal similar to that created by the mouse encoder.
  • the frequency of this signal can be adjusted by the grid spacing and by the number of aligned light sensors. The direction of motion is determined based on the sequence of the signal output from the sensors.
  • Figs. 17A-C and 18 show more detailed views of the opto- electrical signal which detects pivotal movement of the finger-grip (the time/force-proportional system) .
  • Light sensors are arranged opposite each other. Pivotal movement of the finger-grip 2 results in an illumination of the light sensors 32 from the light guide. The amount of light that each sensor receives depends upon the degree and direction of the movement of the finger- grip.
  • the finger-grip is held between the thumb and the index finger or the tip of the finger may be put on the top of the grip to move it. Movement of the hand or finger(s) in a horizontal direction will cause a corresponding movement of the base plate, thus causing the length-proportional system to generate a pulsed signal. The pulses generated will be transmitted to the computer and transformed into screen cursor movement.
  • the second signal generating system detects pivotal movement of the finger-grip.
  • This pivotal or sideways bending motion can be obtained anywhere within the circular area of movement of the grip.
  • the pivotal movement will be executed while pushing the finger-grip 2 or base plate against a physical barrier constituting the outer limit of the active area. This allows the finger-grip 2 to be bent without a simultaneous movement of the base plate 3 since this is prevented from further outward movement by the design of the system.
  • This pivotal bending of the finger-grip 2 leads to a varying degree of illumination of the light sensors 32 with the amount of light each sensor 32 receives being dependent upon the degree and direction of bending.
  • This provides an electrical output signal from the sensors that can be transformed into vectorial information, i.e. information regarding the speed and direction of cursor movement.
  • vectorial information i.e. information regarding the speed and direction of cursor movement.
  • Fig. 17 is a side view of three different positions of the signal generating system based upon pivotal movement of the finger-grip.
  • Fig. 17A shows the normal position when no signal is generated.
  • Figs. 17B and C show two situations with increased bending of the finger-grip, leading to 50% (17B) and 100% (17C) illumination of the light sensor.
  • the above-described system is an alternative embodiment for detecting a vectorial force being applied to the finger-grip 2, in addition to the electromechanical systems discussed previously.
  • the signal generating system employed for detecting horizontal movement of the base plate i.e. the system employing a reflecting grid, can also be used to detect the vectorial force.
  • the system based upon measuring the amount of incident light by varying the aperture of the light sensor is replaced by a grid/reflection system.
  • Four grids with horizontal reflecting stripes 45 are mounted at the former location of the light sensors and the light sensors themselves 44 are mounted on the light guide opposite the grid.
  • a downward movement of one half of the light guide, following bending of the finger-grip 2 makes the light beam 42 cross a certain number of reflecting stripes. Again, this generates a number of electrical pulses which can be transformed into cursor speed information.
  • the different sensors 44 will yield a different number of pulses according to the direction and degree of finger-grip bending, thus creating similar vectorial information as described for other systems.
  • this can be created by a secondary sideways movement of the grip as shown in Fig. 20. However, this can only be executed when the grip 2 and base plate 3 are pushed against the outer edge of the movement area, thus being prevented from further outward movement.
  • the principle shown here for detecting secondary sideways movement can be replaced by a reflecting grid system discussed previously.
  • the position of the cursor control device relative to the keyboard is particularly significant both in relation to ergonomics and ease and speed of operation.
  • the present invention also discloses a solution to this as shown in Figs. 21 and 22.
  • a semi-circular indentation or recess is provided in the space bar 47 and this forms part of the movement area of the finger-grip.
  • This partial removal of the traditional space bar 47 allows for a very close integration of the input device in the keyboard, permitting the finger-grip to be manoeuvred with the thumb or gripped between the thumb and the index finger while the other fingers are resting in their normal position on the keyboard.
  • One very advantageous consequence of this is that the user can switch very rapidly between keyboard input and cursor input without changing his hand position.
  • the semi-circular recessed area 47 has sloping side walls to permit ease of operation of the handle 2 while gripped between the thumb and index finger.
  • An additional feature of this embodiment is that it permits a functional coupling between the finger-grip 2 and the space bar 47. Depressing the space bar 47 while the finger-grip 2 is in the up or down position may provide two extra cursor input commands, similar to using a right and middle mouse button. Alternatively, this function coupling may render the "up" position of the finger-grip obsolete, since a simultaneous depression of the grip 2 and the space bar 47 may be given a code status as interrupting cursor signal execution, permitting the grip to be manoeuvred without creating any cursor movement, equivalent to lifting and repositioning the mouse. Using this combination permits the thumb or index finger to rest on top of the finger- grip 2 during the manoeuvring process, thus further reducing the need for reposition of the hand relative to the keyboard during active cursor manipulation.
  • finger-grip 2 and space bar 47 can be achieved by, or extended to encompass, other keys, for example "shift", “control” or “alt” in combination with the finger-grip manipulation.
  • the finger-grip or handle 2 is made as simple as possible, with no additional push-buttons.
  • the switch control is executed by merely lifting and depressing the grip. While the finger-grip is in the normal position, a horizontal movement will lead to a

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Computer Hardware Design (AREA)
  • Mathematical Physics (AREA)
  • Position Input By Displaying (AREA)

Abstract

Dispositif de manipulation et de positionnement du curseur d'un écran de PC ou autres ordinateurs utilisant une interface graphique. L'invention comprend un levier à préhension digitale (2) dont la man÷uvre selon des mouvements naturels de l'écriture et du dessin assure in repositionnement rapide et précis du curseur. Les mouvements du levier sont connectés à un générateur de signaux doubles, les premiers (41) déplaçant le curseur dans un mouvement reproduisant celui du levier, et les seconds (32) le décplaçant linéairement dans un mouvement dont la direction et la vitesse sont déterminées par une force directionnelle ou par une impulsion appliquée au levier.
PCT/NO1994/000113 1993-06-21 1994-06-20 Dispositif de manipulation d'un curseur WO1995000897A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU70862/94A AU7086294A (en) 1993-06-21 1994-06-20 Cursor control device

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NO932270 1993-06-21
NO932270A NO932270D0 (no) 1993-06-21 1993-06-21 Styreredskap for pc-markoer

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1995000897A1 true WO1995000897A1 (fr) 1995-01-05

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ID=19896198

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/NO1994/000113 WO1995000897A1 (fr) 1993-06-21 1994-06-20 Dispositif de manipulation d'un curseur

Country Status (3)

Country Link
AU (1) AU7086294A (fr)
NO (1) NO932270D0 (fr)
WO (1) WO1995000897A1 (fr)

Cited By (26)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1996031836A1 (fr) * 1995-04-03 1996-10-10 Steinar Pedersen Dispositif de commande d'un curseur dans des applications en 2-d et 3-d
EP0796766A2 (fr) * 1996-03-18 1997-09-24 Philips Patentverwaltung GmbH Dispositif de commande multifonctions pour un véhicule
DE19708450A1 (de) * 1997-03-03 1998-09-17 Ericsson Telefon Ab L M Vorrichtung zum Steuern eines Positionsanzeigers auf einer Sichtanzeige
WO1999042919A1 (fr) * 1998-02-19 1999-08-26 Steinar Pedersen Dispositif de commande de curseur dote d'un manche de commande et d'un support pour la main
AT408586B (de) * 2000-03-27 2002-01-25 Fuxberger Friedolin Steuereinrichtung eines gerätes mit einem oder mehreren armen und ein computer
FR2831285A1 (fr) * 2001-10-19 2003-04-25 Rlb Dispositif de commande au pied d'un ordinateur
US6762750B2 (en) 1999-06-24 2004-07-13 Johan Ullman Input device for a computer and a grip arrangement for such a device
US7671837B2 (en) 2005-09-06 2010-03-02 Apple Inc. Scrolling input arrangements using capacitive sensors on a flexible membrane
US8022935B2 (en) 2006-07-06 2011-09-20 Apple Inc. Capacitance sensing electrode with integrated I/O mechanism
USRE42738E1 (en) 1997-10-28 2011-09-27 Apple Inc. Portable computers
US8059099B2 (en) 2006-06-02 2011-11-15 Apple Inc. Techniques for interactive input to portable electronic devices
US8274479B2 (en) 2006-10-11 2012-09-25 Apple Inc. Gimballed scroll wheel
US8446370B2 (en) 2002-02-25 2013-05-21 Apple Inc. Touch pad for handheld device
US8514185B2 (en) 2006-07-06 2013-08-20 Apple Inc. Mutual capacitance touch sensing device
US8552990B2 (en) 2003-11-25 2013-10-08 Apple Inc. Touch pad for handheld device
US8749493B2 (en) 2003-08-18 2014-06-10 Apple Inc. Movable touch pad with added functionality
US8866780B2 (en) 2007-12-03 2014-10-21 Apple Inc. Multi-dimensional scroll wheel
US8872771B2 (en) 2009-07-07 2014-10-28 Apple Inc. Touch sensing device having conductive nodes
US8952886B2 (en) 2001-10-22 2015-02-10 Apple Inc. Method and apparatus for accelerated scrolling
US9081426B2 (en) 1992-03-05 2015-07-14 Anascape, Ltd. Image controller
US9354751B2 (en) 2009-05-15 2016-05-31 Apple Inc. Input device with optimized capacitive sensing
US9367151B2 (en) 2005-12-30 2016-06-14 Apple Inc. Touch pad with symbols based on mode
US9405421B2 (en) 2006-07-06 2016-08-02 Apple Inc. Mutual capacitance touch sensing device
US9454256B2 (en) 2008-03-14 2016-09-27 Apple Inc. Sensor configurations of an input device that are switchable based on mode
US9654104B2 (en) 2007-07-17 2017-05-16 Apple Inc. Resistive force sensor with capacitive discrimination
US10866718B2 (en) 2007-09-04 2020-12-15 Apple Inc. Scrolling techniques for user interfaces

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WO1990007786A2 (fr) * 1988-12-12 1990-07-12 Selby Howard W Iii Peripherique d'entree d'ordinateur du type souris digitale
EP0539599A1 (fr) * 1991-05-15 1993-05-05 Fujitsu Limited Dispositif indicateur et procede de commande pour ce dispositif

Patent Citations (3)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4719455A (en) * 1986-01-24 1988-01-12 Louis William M Integrating pointing device
WO1990007786A2 (fr) * 1988-12-12 1990-07-12 Selby Howard W Iii Peripherique d'entree d'ordinateur du type souris digitale
EP0539599A1 (fr) * 1991-05-15 1993-05-05 Fujitsu Limited Dispositif indicateur et procede de commande pour ce dispositif

Cited By (41)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9081426B2 (en) 1992-03-05 2015-07-14 Anascape, Ltd. Image controller
WO1996031836A1 (fr) * 1995-04-03 1996-10-10 Steinar Pedersen Dispositif de commande d'un curseur dans des applications en 2-d et 3-d
EP0796766A2 (fr) * 1996-03-18 1997-09-24 Philips Patentverwaltung GmbH Dispositif de commande multifonctions pour un véhicule
EP0796766B1 (fr) * 1996-03-18 2004-09-22 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Dispositif de commande multifonctions pour un véhicule
DE19708450A1 (de) * 1997-03-03 1998-09-17 Ericsson Telefon Ab L M Vorrichtung zum Steuern eines Positionsanzeigers auf einer Sichtanzeige
US6094190A (en) * 1997-03-03 2000-07-25 Telefonaktiebolaget Lm Ericsson Device for controlling a position indicator on a visual display
USRE45559E1 (en) 1997-10-28 2015-06-09 Apple Inc. Portable computers
USRE44103E1 (en) 1997-10-28 2013-03-26 Apple Inc. Portable computers
USRE42738E1 (en) 1997-10-28 2011-09-27 Apple Inc. Portable computers
USRE44855E1 (en) 1997-10-28 2014-04-22 Apple Inc. Multi-functional cellular telephone
USRE46548E1 (en) 1997-10-28 2017-09-12 Apple Inc. Portable computers
WO1999042919A1 (fr) * 1998-02-19 1999-08-26 Steinar Pedersen Dispositif de commande de curseur dote d'un manche de commande et d'un support pour la main
US6762750B2 (en) 1999-06-24 2004-07-13 Johan Ullman Input device for a computer and a grip arrangement for such a device
AT408586B (de) * 2000-03-27 2002-01-25 Fuxberger Friedolin Steuereinrichtung eines gerätes mit einem oder mehreren armen und ein computer
FR2831285A1 (fr) * 2001-10-19 2003-04-25 Rlb Dispositif de commande au pied d'un ordinateur
US9977518B2 (en) 2001-10-22 2018-05-22 Apple Inc. Scrolling based on rotational movement
US8952886B2 (en) 2001-10-22 2015-02-10 Apple Inc. Method and apparatus for accelerated scrolling
US9009626B2 (en) 2001-10-22 2015-04-14 Apple Inc. Method and apparatus for accelerated scrolling
US8446370B2 (en) 2002-02-25 2013-05-21 Apple Inc. Touch pad for handheld device
US10353565B2 (en) 2002-02-25 2019-07-16 Apple Inc. Input apparatus and button arrangement for handheld device
US8749493B2 (en) 2003-08-18 2014-06-10 Apple Inc. Movable touch pad with added functionality
US8552990B2 (en) 2003-11-25 2013-10-08 Apple Inc. Touch pad for handheld device
US8933890B2 (en) 2003-11-25 2015-01-13 Apple Inc. Techniques for interactive input to portable electronic devices
US7671837B2 (en) 2005-09-06 2010-03-02 Apple Inc. Scrolling input arrangements using capacitive sensors on a flexible membrane
US9367151B2 (en) 2005-12-30 2016-06-14 Apple Inc. Touch pad with symbols based on mode
US8059099B2 (en) 2006-06-02 2011-11-15 Apple Inc. Techniques for interactive input to portable electronic devices
US9405421B2 (en) 2006-07-06 2016-08-02 Apple Inc. Mutual capacitance touch sensing device
US8514185B2 (en) 2006-07-06 2013-08-20 Apple Inc. Mutual capacitance touch sensing device
US9360967B2 (en) 2006-07-06 2016-06-07 Apple Inc. Mutual capacitance touch sensing device
US10890953B2 (en) 2006-07-06 2021-01-12 Apple Inc. Capacitance sensing electrode with integrated I/O mechanism
US10359813B2 (en) 2006-07-06 2019-07-23 Apple Inc. Capacitance sensing electrode with integrated I/O mechanism
US8022935B2 (en) 2006-07-06 2011-09-20 Apple Inc. Capacitance sensing electrode with integrated I/O mechanism
US10139870B2 (en) 2006-07-06 2018-11-27 Apple Inc. Capacitance sensing electrode with integrated I/O mechanism
US10180732B2 (en) 2006-10-11 2019-01-15 Apple Inc. Gimballed scroll wheel
US8274479B2 (en) 2006-10-11 2012-09-25 Apple Inc. Gimballed scroll wheel
US9654104B2 (en) 2007-07-17 2017-05-16 Apple Inc. Resistive force sensor with capacitive discrimination
US10866718B2 (en) 2007-09-04 2020-12-15 Apple Inc. Scrolling techniques for user interfaces
US8866780B2 (en) 2007-12-03 2014-10-21 Apple Inc. Multi-dimensional scroll wheel
US9454256B2 (en) 2008-03-14 2016-09-27 Apple Inc. Sensor configurations of an input device that are switchable based on mode
US9354751B2 (en) 2009-05-15 2016-05-31 Apple Inc. Input device with optimized capacitive sensing
US8872771B2 (en) 2009-07-07 2014-10-28 Apple Inc. Touch sensing device having conductive nodes

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Publication number Publication date
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AU7086294A (en) 1995-01-17

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