WO2017037449A1

WO2017037449A1 - Input device for a computer

Info

Publication number: WO2017037449A1
Application number: PCT/GB2016/052692
Authority: WO
Inventors: Simon Burgess; Duncan Ironmonger
Original assignee: Ironburg Inventions
Priority date: 2015-09-03
Filing date: 2016-08-31
Publication date: 2017-03-09

Abstract

An input apparatus for a computer including a control device, a housing having a plurality of walls defining an interior, the plurality of walls comprising a top panel having a first surface and a second surface opposing the first surface, and a carriage disposed within the interior of the housing and comprising at least one biasing device for biasing the carriage to a rest position within the housing. The carriage comprises a first part of a magnetic coupling device and the control device comprises a second part of a magnetic coupling device. The magnetic coupling device is arranged to couple the carriage to the control device when the carriage and the control device are disposed on opposite sides of the top panel.

Description

INPUT DEVICE FOR A COMPUTER

FIELD

The invention relates to an input device for a computer; more particularly, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a computer mouse for controlling the play of computerised games.

BACKGROUND

In a computer system a graphical or visual environment is presented to a user on a display monitor. The user can interact with the computer system to perform functions or execute commands via a user manipuable device or input device such as a mouse. The user can interact with the computer system to operate a graphical user interface, play a game, manipulate files and perform other functions. The user receives visual and/or audio feedback from the computer system. It is desirable to provide haptic or tactile feedback to the user so as to further enhance the user's experience in a simulated or virtual environment. It is an object of the present invention to provide a user manipuable device or input device for a computer which provides a physical sensation to the user. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a user manipuable device or input device for a computer which is configured to self-locate or self-centre; that is to say, the user manipuable device is provided upon a work surface and returns to a predefined location on the work surface when released by the user. It is intended that a graphical display icon, such as a cursor, pointer, crosshair or other reticle or graticule will return to a predefined position upon a visual interface as a consequence of the user manipuable device returning to the predefined location on the work surface.

The present invention seeks to improve upon, or at least mitigate, some of the problems associated with computer input devices of the prior art.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an input apparatus for a computer including a control device; a housing having a plurality of walls defining an interior, the plurality of walls comprising a top panel having a first surface and a second surface opposing the first surface; and a carriage disposed within the interior of the housing and comprising at least one biasing device for biasing the carriage to a rest position within the housing. The carriage comprises a first part of a magnetic coupling device and the control device comprises a second part of a magnetic coupling device. The magnetic coupling device is arranged to couple the carriage to the control device when the carriage and the control device are disposed on opposite sides of the top panel. Optionally, the housing comprises a pair of opposed side walls, a pair of opposed end walls, a base panel and a top panel.

Optionally, the control device comprises a processor and a sensor coupled to the processor configured to detect an amount of movement of the control device.

In some embodiments, the carriage comprises a processor and a sensor coupled to the processor configured to detect an amount of movement of the carriage.

In some embodiments, the housing comprises a processor and a sensor coupled to the processor configured to detect an amount of movement of the carriage.

In some embodiments, the housing comprises a processor and a sensor coupled to the processor configured to detect an amount of movement of the control device. Optionally, the first part of the magnetic coupling device comprises a permanent magnet.

Optionally, the first part of the magnetic coupling device comprises an electromagnet.

Optionally, the first part of the magnetic coupling device comprises a ferromagnetic material.

Optionally, the second part of the magnetic coupling device comprises a permanent magnet.

Optionally, the second part of the magnetic coupling device comprises an electromagnet. Optionally, the second part of the magnetic coupling device comprises a ferromagnetic material.

In some embodiments, the input apparatus comprises at least two biasing devices including a first biasing device for biasing the carriage in a first direction and a second biasing device for biasing the carriage in a second direction.

Optionally, the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction. Optionally, the second direction opposes the first direction.

In some embodiments, the input apparatus comprises a plurality of biasing devices each arranged to define the rest position.

In some embodiments, the input apparatus comprises a plurality of biasing devices each applying a bias force to the carriage; the plurality of biasing devices is arranged such that the carriage is in a state of equilibrium when disposed at the rest position.

In some embodiments, the input apparatus comprises a plurality of biasing devices each configured to apply force to the carriage upon displacement from the rest position, and wherein the plurality of biasing devices is arranged such that the carriage is in a state of equilibrium when disposed at the rest position.

Optionally, none of the plurality of biasing devices applies a biasing force to the carriage when the carriage is disposed in the rest position.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a computer system comprising: a computer; a computer monitor to be controlled by the computer; and an input apparatus according to the preceding paragraphs coupled to the computer.

Optionally, the computer comprises a graphical user interface displayed upon the computer monitor, wherein the graphical user interface is configured to pan a graphical object displayed upon the computer monitor in response to movement of the control device.

In some embodiments, the graphical object returns to a predefined position on the graphical user interface in response to the carriage and control device returning to the rest position. According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided an input apparatus for a computer including:

a control device;

a panel having a first surface for receiving the control device and a second surface opposing the first surface; and

wherein the panel comprises a biasing device for biasing the control device to a rest position thereupon. Optionally, the control device comprises one or more sensors for sensing movement of the control device upon the panel.

Optionally, the control device comprises one or more sensors for sensing the position of the control device upon the panel.

Optionally, the panel comprises one or more sensors for sensing movement of the control device upon the panel. Optionally, the panel comprises one or more sensors for sensing the position of the control device upon the panel.

Optionally, the position of the control device upon the panel is mapped to a predefined position of a graphical element upon a display screen.

Optionally, the control device provides a user with haptic feedback regarding the position of the control device upon the panel.

Optionally, the control device provides a user with haptic feedback regarding the position of a graphic element upon a display screen.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided an input apparatus for a computer including:

a housing having a plurality of walls defining an interior, the plurality of walls comprising a top panel having a first surface and a second surface opposing the first surface; and

a carriage disposed within the interior of the housing and comprising at least one biasing device for biasing the carriage to a rest position within the housing;

wherein the carriage comprises a first part of a magnetic coupling device for coupling with a control device having a second part of a magnetic coupling device, the magnetic coupling device being arranged to couple the carriage to the control device when the carriage and the control device are disposed on opposite sides of the top panel.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention there is provided a control device for use with the input apparatus, the control device having a second part of a magnetic coupling device.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided a magnetic coupling device for mounting to a computer input device to form a control device for use with the input apparatus. Optionally, the magnetic coupling device comprises a body portion configured and arranged to be mounted within a housing of the computer input device. Optionally, the magnetic coupling device comprises a body portion configured and arranged to be mounted about a base of a housing of the computer input device.

According to a seventh aspect of the invention there is provided an input apparatus for a computer including:

a panel having a first surface forming receiving area and a second surface opposing the first surface; and

wherein the panel comprises a first part of biasing device for biasing a control device to a rest position when placed thereupon. According to an eighth aspect of the invention there is provided a control device for use with the input apparatus, the control device comprising a second part of biasing device which couples to the first part of the biasing device when the control device is placed upon the receiving area. Within the scope of this application it is envisaged and intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be taken independently or in any combination thereof. For example, features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is incompatibility of features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGURE 1 is an exploded perspective view of an input device for a computer according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIGURE 2 is a perspective view of the input device of Figure 1 in which the side walls have been removed for illustrative purposes;

FIGURE 3 is a side view of a mouse element;

FIGURE 4 is a cross sectional view of the input device of Figure 1 ;

FIGURE 5 is a plan view of the input device of Figure 1 moved from a first position to a second position; FIGURE 6 is a plan view of an input device for a computer according to another embodiment of the disclosure;

FIGURE 7 is a plan view of an input device for a computer according to a further embodiment of the disclosure;

FIGURE 8 is a plan view of an input device for a computer according to a yet another embodiment of the disclosure;

FIGURE 9a is a perspective view of a component for an input device for a computer according to yet a further embodiment of the disclosure; and

FIGURE 9b is a perspective view of a component for an input device according to still yet another embodiment of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of an input device are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects of the input device can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the input device may be embodied. Indeed, it will be understood that the input device described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 1 , there is shown an input apparatus 10 for forming part of an input interface for a computer according to an embodiment of the invention. The input apparatus 10 comprises a housing 14 and a sheet or panel 1 1 having an upper work surface 12 and a lower work surface 13.The panel 1 1 is mounted on the housing 14. A pointing device 20a in the form of a human interface device is mounted upon the upper work surface 12. The pointing device 20a allows a user to input spatial data to a computer (not shown). The spatial data may include, but is not limited to: information conveying the direction of movement of the pointing device 20a; the speed of movement of the pointing device 20a; the orientation of the pointing device 20a; the distance the pointing device 20a is moved; and the time of travel of the pointing device 20a. The computer comprises an output interface in the form of a visual interface or display (not shown). A graphical user interface (GUI) displayed upon the output interface allows the user to control and provide data to the computer using physical gestures by moving the pointing device 20a across the surface of the work surface 12, and optionally by activating switches or buttons (not shown) provided on the pointing device 20a. Movements of the pointing device 20a are echoed or replicated on the visual display by movements of a graphical display icon, such as a cursor, pointer, crosshair or other reticle or graticule or by other visual changes in the graphical user interface. In some applications, such as gaming or simulation applications, the pointing device 20a may control the field of view from a first person perspective.

The distance and speed of movement of the graphical display icon will be directly proportional to the distance and speed movement of the pointing device 20a. The distance and speed of movement of the graphical display icon may be any ratio of the distance and speed movement of the pointing device 20a. In some embodiments the ratio may be 1 :1 .

The housing 14 comprises side walls 16b, 16d, end walls 16a, 16c and a base 18. The side walls 16b, 16d, end walls 16a, 16c, the base 18 and the panel 1 1 define a void or interior of the input apparatus 10. A carriage 20b is disposed within the void.

The carriage 20b is biased to a predefined position by a plurality of biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4. Each of the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 comprises a cable or line 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d respectively. A first end of each line 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d is anchored or secured to the carriage 20b. A second end of each line 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d is anchored or secured to an anchoring post 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d.

A plurality of optional bearing posts 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d are mounted upon the base 18. The bearing posts 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d control the orientation of the carriage 20b and a rest position of the carriage with respect to the base 18.

In some embodiments the lines 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d are formed from an elastic material and are configured to bias the carriage 20b to return to a predefined rest position.

In other embodiments, the lines 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d are configured to be coilable or retractable around the respective anchoring posts 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d ; the anchoring posts 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d comprise a retraction mechanism including a biasing device such as a spring which is biased in such a way as to retract the line 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d. For example the lines 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d may be wound or recoiled about the anchoring posts 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d to which it is secured. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 the carriage 20b is biased to return to a rest position which is centrally disposed on the base 18. In other embodiments the rest or default position of the carriage 20b may be at a different location with respect to the base 18 for example, but not limited to, at a corner of the base 18 or elsewhere about the periphery or perimeter of the base 18.

The anchoring posts 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d and the bearing posts 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d are mounted about the periphery of the base 18. A first bearing post 26a is arranged such that a portion of a first line 30a between the carriage 20b and the first bearing post 26a substantially bisects the base in a first, longitudinal direction. A second bearing post 26b is arranged such that a portion of a second line 30b between the carriage 20b and the second bearing post 26b substantially bisects the base in a second, transverse direction.

A third bearing post 26c is arranged such that a portion of a third line 30c between the carriage 20b and the third bearing post 26c substantially bisects the base 18 in the first, longitudinal direction. A fourth bearing post 26d is arranged such that a portion of a second line 30d between the carriage 20b and the fourth bearing post 26d substantially bisects the base in the second, transverse direction. In this way, portions of each of the first line 30a and third line 30c are co-linear with each other and portions of each of the second line 30b and fourth line 30d are co-linear with each other. Portions of each of the first line 30a and third line 30c are perpendicular with respect to portions of each of the second line 30b and fourth line 30d. The pointing device 20a comprises a first magnet 24a. Optionally, the first magnet 24a is disposed centrally with respect to a chassis 21 a of the pointing device 20a. The first magnet 24a is mounted to the chassis 21 a with the positive or north pole disposed facing outwardly from the chassis 21 a. The negative or south pole is mounted adjacent to the chassis 21 a. In the illustrated embodiment the positive or north pole of the first magnet 24a is disposed lowermost and the negative or south pole is uppermost.

The pointing device 20a may comprise one or more feet 22a (in the illustrated embodiment four feet 22a are provided) which provide a low friction interface between the pointing device 20a and the upper work surface 12. The feet 22a may comprise a material having a low coefficient of friction, such as but not limited to Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or nylon, mounted to the base of the pointing device 20a. In other embodiments, the feet 22 may comprise a ball bearing rotationally mounted to the chassis 21 a. The carriage 20b comprises a second magnet 24b. Optionally, the second magnet 24b is disposed centrally with respect to a chassis 21 b of the carriage 20b. The second magnet 24b is mounted to the chassis 21 b with the positive or north pole disposed facing inwardly to the chassis 21 b. The negative or south pole is mounted facing outwardly of the chassis 21 b. In the illustrated embodiment the positive or north pole of the second magnet 24b is disposed uppermost and the negative or south pole is lowermost.

In this way the north pole of the first magnet 24a faces the south pole of the second magnet 24b. The first magnet 24a and second magnet 24b are thus arranged to exert a force of attraction upon each other.

The carriage 20b may comprise one or more feet 22b (in the illustrated embodiment four feet 22b are provided) which provide a low friction interface between the carriage 20b and the lower work surface 13. The feet 22b may comprise a material having a low coefficient of friction, such as but not limited to Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or nylon, mounted to an upper surface of the carriage 20b. In other embodiments, the feet may comprise a ball bearing rotationally mounted to the chassis 21 b. Optionally, the carriage 20b may comprise a contact plate 32b, see Figures 2 and 3. The contact plate 32b may be mounted on the second magnet 24b and arranged to be disposed between the second magnet 24b and the panel 1 1 . The contact plate 32b when present is in contacting relationship with the panel 1 1 . The contact plate 32b may comprise a material having a low coefficient of friction, such as but not limited to Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or nylon. Similarly, the pointing device 20a may optionally comprise a contact plate 32a disposed between the first magnet 24a and the panel 1 1 .

It will be appreciated that in other embodiments each of the first and second magnets 24a, 24b may be inverted and still be arranged to exert a force of attraction upon each other. In still further embodiments, one of the first or second magnets 24a, 24b may be replaced with a magnetic material such as, but not limited to, a ferromagnetic material. The magnetic material will be susceptible to the magnetic field of the other one of the first or second magnets 24a, 24b, such that a force of attraction is exerted upon the magnetic material by said first or second magnets 24a, 24b. In some embodiments the first and/or second magnets 24a, 24b may comprise an electromagnet. When the carriage 20b is located in the predefined start or rest position, the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 are in a balanced condition. That is to say, there is no net force applied to the carriage 20b, or no forces applied to the carriage 20b. When the carriage 20b is located in the predefined start or rest position each of the the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 may be in an unbiased or neutral position. That is to say, no force is applied to the carriage 20b by each of the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4. In other embodiments the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 may be in a biased condition, that is to say each of the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 applies a force to the carriage 20b. The first and third biasing members B1 , B3 (which are disposed on opposite sides of the carriage 20b) apply a force of equal magnitude, albeit in opposing directions, to the carriage 20b. The second and fourth biasing members B2, B4 (which are disposed on opposite sides of the carriage) apply a force of equal magnitude, albeit in opposing directions, to the carriage 20b. In this way the carriage 20b remains at rest in the default or rest position.

This pre-tensioning of the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 may reduce or eliminate slack. This may improve the accuracy and/or precision of the carriage device 20b to return to the rest position. Here the term "accuracy" is used to define the proximity of the pointing device 20a to the predefined location, or 'the true value'; the term "precision" is used to define the repeatability or reproducibility of the pointing device 20a to locate to the predefined location or 'the true value'.

When the carriage 20b is moved away from the default position the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 in combination act upon the carriage 20b to return the carriage 20b to the default position. The forces applied to the carriage 20b by each of the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 result in a net force directed back to the default position, hereinafter also referred to as a return force.

Optionally, the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 are configured to apply a return force of increasing magnitude the further from the default position the carriage 20b is moved. In this way the user must apply an increasing force to the pointing device 20a to move it further from the default position.

The input apparatus 10 is configured such that the pointing device 20a is placed upon the upper surface 12 of the panel 1 1 , as shown in Figure 4. The pointing device 20a may be arranged such that the first magnet 24a depends from a lowermost surface of the chassis 21 a. The carriage 20b is disposed in the interior of the input apparatus 10. The carriage 20b may be arranged such that the second magnet 24b depends from an uppermost surface of the chassis 21 b.

When the pointing device 20a is placed upon the upper surface 12 of the panel 1 1 above the carriage 20b, the arrangement of the first and second magnets 24a, 24b is such that a force of attraction exists between the first and second magnets 24a, 24b. The force of attraction is sufficient such that when a user moves the pointing device 20a over the upper surface 12 of the panel 1 1 the carriage 20b follows the pointing device 20a. In some embodiments the force of attraction between the first and second magnets 24a, 24b is sufficient to hold or suspend the carriage 20b in contacting relationship with the lower surface 13 of the panel 1 1 , as shown in Figure 4. In this way the carriage 20b in not in contact with the base 18 of the input apparatus 10; the force of attraction is sufficient to overcome the force of gravity upon the carriage 20b.

In other embodiments the carriage 20b may comprise one or more second feet for providing a low friction interface between the carriage 20b and the base 18; the carriage 20b may be in sliding or rolling contact with the base 18. The one or more second feet may comprise a low friction material such as Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or nylon, mounted to the base or lower surface of the carriage 20b. In other embodiments, the one or more second feet may comprise a ball bearing rotationally mounted to the chassis 21 b. In some embodiments the second feet may be integrally formed with the chassis 21 b.

Figure 5 illustrates the input apparatus 10 in use; the panel 1 1 and pointing device 20a have been removed for illustrative purposes. When a user moves the pointing device 20a from a first, rest, position P1 to a second position P2 as shown by direction arrow D1 , the carriage 20b follows the pointing device 20a by virtue of the attractive magnetic force between them.

Each of the forces exerted upon the carriage 20b by each of the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 will be altered as a result of the displacement of the carriage 20b. The forces exerted upon the carriage 20b by each of the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 will be unbalanced, that is to say the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 will exert a net force upon the carriage 20b. The net force will act upon the carriage 20b to return the carriage 20b to the first, rest, position P1 . This return force will be exerted upon the pointing device 20a in turn. In this way the user will need to apply a force to the pointing device 20a to prevent the pointing device 20a, and hence also the carriage 20b, from returning to the rest position P1 in which the each of the forces exerted upon the carriage 20b by each of the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 are in balance and no net force is applied.

Referring now to Figures 6 to 9b, there are shown additional embodiments of the present disclosure.

In the second illustrated embodiment shown in Figure 6 like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "100" to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. The additional embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 will be described in detail.

Figure 6 shows an input apparatus 1 10 for forming part of an input interface for a computer according to an embodiment of the invention. The input apparatus 1 10 comprises a housing 1 14 and employs a sheet or panel 1 1 of the first embodiment (see Figure 1 ) having an upper work surface 12 and a lower work surface 13. The panel 1 1 is mountable on the housing 1 14.

The housing 1 14 comprises side walls 1 16b, 1 16d, end walls 1 16a, 1 16c and a base 1 18. The side walls 1 16b, 1 16d, end walls 1 16a, 1 16c, the base 1 18 and the panel 1 1 define a void or interior of the input apparatus 1 10. A carriage 120b is disposed within the void.

The carriage 120b is biased to a predefined position by a plurality of biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4. Each of the biasing members B1 , B2, B3, B4 comprises a cable or line 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d respectively. A first end of each line 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d is anchored or secured to the carriage 120b. A second end of each line 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d is anchored or secured to an anchoring post 128a, 128b, 128c, 128d.

A plurality of bearing posts 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d are mounted upon the base 1 18. The bearing posts 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d control the orientation of the carriage 120b and a rest position of the carriage 120b with respect to the base 1 18.

The input apparatus 1 10 comprises a plurality of buffers 140, 141 , 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147. The plurality of buffers is disposed about the periphery of the base 1 18 of the housing 1 14. The buffers 140, 141 , 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 provide a cushioning effect, so as to prevent or mitigate against contact between the carriage 120b and the side walls 1 16b, 1 16d and/or end walls 1 16a, 1 16c. The buffers 140, 141 , 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 provide an end stop limiting travel of the carriage 120b and may be formed from a compressible material which gives a 'soft' feel, such as an elastic material for example, but not limited to, a foam or rubber based material.

In the illustrated embodiment the buffers 140, 141 , 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 are arranged so as to prevent or at least reduce the likelihood of contact between the carriage 120b and the anchoring posts 128a, 128b, 128c, 128d and/or bearing posts 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d.

The buffers 140, 141 , 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 defined the maximum range of travel of the carriage 120b.

In the illustrated embodiment the buffers 140, 141 , 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 are mounted to the base 1 18. However, in alternative embodiments the buffers 140, 141 , 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 may be mounted to the lower surface 13 of the panel 1 1 shown in Figure 1 . In the third illustrated embodiment shown in Figure 7 like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "200" to indicate that these features belong to the third embodiment. The additional embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 will be described in detail.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 7 the bearing posts 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d have been omitted. The housing 214 comprises a plurality of anchor posts 228a, 228b, 228c, 228d.

The first anchor post 228a is mounted proximate the centre of the first end wall 216a. The third anchor post 228c is mounted proximate the centre of the second end wall 216c. The second anchor post 228b is mounted proximate the centre of the first side wall 216b. The fourth anchor post 228d is mounted proximate the centre of the second side wall 216d.

The carriage 220b comprises a plurality of optional retraction mechanisms 250a, 250b, 250c, 250d mounted thereon which provide a biasing mechanism for biasing the carriage 221 b to return to a predefined start or rest position. A retraction mechanism 250a, 250b, 250c, 250d is provided for each of the lines 230a, 230b, 230c, 230d respectively. In alternative embodiments, the retraction mechanism 250a, 250b, 250c, 250d may be integrally formed with the anchor posts 228a, 228b, 228c, 228d and the lines 230a, 230b, 230c, 230d may be fixedly attached to the chassis 221 b.

In embodiments in which the retraction mechanisms 250a, 250b, 250c, 250d are omitted the lines 230a, 230b, 230c, 230d may be formed from an elastic material, such that they each provide a resilient bias to the carriage 221 b. In the fourth illustrated embodiment shown in Figure 8, like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "300" to indicate that these features belong to the fourth embodiment. The additional embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 will be described in detail.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8 each of the bearing posts 326a, 326b, 326c, 326d have been located at one of the corners of the base 318. Each of the anchor posts 328a, 328b, 328c, 328d have been located proximate a respective one of the side or end walls 316a, 316c, 316b, 316d between a pair of adjacent bearing posts 326a, 326b, 326c, 326d.

Optionally, the first anchor post 328a is mounted proximate the centre of the first end wall 316a. Optionally, the third anchor post 328c is mounted proximate the centre of the second end wall 316c. Optionally, the second anchor post 328b is mounted proximate the centre of the first side wall 316b. Optionally, the fourth anchor post 328d is mounted proximate the centre of the second side wall 316d.

Each of the lines 330a, 330b, 330c, 330d is fixedly attached to a respective one of the corners of the chassis 321 b. In the fifth illustrated embodiment shown in Figure 9a like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "400" to indicate that these features belong to the fifth embodiment. The additional embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 will be described in detail.

There is shown in Figure 9a an alternative carriage 420b for being employed with a similarly configured alternative pointing device (not shown). The alternative carriage 420b comprises a pair of magnets 427b arranged proximate each other in a spaced apart relationship. Each of the positive or north poles + is disposed to face outwardly from the chassis 421 b. In alternative embodiments, each of the positive or north poles + may be disposed to face inwardly of the chassis 421 b.

In order to provide a force of attraction between the carriage 420b and the pointing device, the alternative pointing device comprises a pair of magnets 427b arranged proximate each other in a spaced apart relationship. Each of the positive or north poles + is disposed to face inwardly of the chassis.

In alternative embodiments, when the positive or north poles + of the pair of magnets 427b of the carriage 420b are disposed to face inwardly from the chassis 421 b, each of the positive or north poles + of the pair of magnets 427b of the pointing device is disposed to face outwardly from the chassis.

In the sixth illustrated embodiment shown in Figure 9b like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "500" to indicate that these features belong to the sixth embodiment. The additional embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 will be described in detail.

There is shown in Figure 9b an alternative carriage 520b for being employed with a similarly configured alternative pointing device (not shown).

The alternative carriage 520b comprises a pair of magnets 527bi , 527b₂ arranged proximate each other in a spaced apart relationship.

A first one of the magnets 527bi is arranged such that its positive or north pole + is disposed to face outwardly from the chassis 521 b. In alternative embodiments, the first magnet 527bi may be arranged such that its positive or north pole + is disposed to face inwardly of the chassis 521 b.

A second one of the magnets 527b₂ is arranged such that its positive or north pole + is disposed to face inwardly of the chassis 521 b. In alternative embodiments, the second magnet 527b₂ may be arranged such that its positive or north pole + is disposed to face outwardly of the chassis 521 b. In this way the first and second magnets 527bi, 527b₂ are arranged in polar opposition.

The carriage 520b may be employed with a similarly arranged pointing device. In use the pointing device will orientate itself with respect to the carriage 520b such that the first magnet 527bi of the pointing device is disposed over the second magnet 527b₂ of the carriage 520b, and the second magnet 527bi of the pointing device is disposed over the first magnet 527b₂ of the carriage 520b. In this way a force of attraction exists between the first magnet 527bi of the pointing device and the second magnet 527b₂ of the carriage 520b; similarly a force of attraction exists between the second magnet 527bi of the pointing device and the first magnet 527b₂ of the carriage 520b.

The present disclosure provides an input device for a computer in which the user is provided with haptic feedback. The user may sense through touch that the pointing device is approaching the outer edges of it range of motion upon the panel. Alternatively, the feedback may be arranged to inform the user that the cursor or other graphic element displayed upon screen is approaching the edge of the screen or some other boundary defined within the software. It will be recognised that as used herein, directional references such as "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "end", "side", "inner", "outer", "upper" and "lower" do not necessarily limit the respective features to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish these features from one another. While particular embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, numerous variations and alternate embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention.

In some embodiments of the invention the position of the pointing device 20a or the position of the carriage 20b relative to the panel 1 1 may predefine the position a cursor or reticle appears on a display screen. In this way the pointing device position on the panel is mapped to the positon of the cursor on the display. Thus whenever the pointing device is place at a given position on the panel the cursor appears at the same position on the display. The shape of the panel 1 1 may be similar to the shape of the display screen, for example the aspect ratio of the panel 1 1 may correspond to the aspect ratio of the display screen. Alternatively, the panel 1 1 may comprise one or more indicia indicating the boundaries of a display screen. Some embodiments may comprise multiple indicia or other visual aid for commonly used aspect ratios for example but not limited to 4:3, 16:9, 16:10, 21 :9 to aid the user with placement of the pointing device. The active aspect ratio may be illuminated or projected upon the panel 1 1 .

The position of the bumpers 140 may be adjusted to accommodate a desired aspect ratio.

The pointing device may be a known computer mouse. The mouse may be retro fitted with a magnet or magnetic material in order to cooperate with the carriage 20b. For example a base plate or frame member may be secured to or about the base of the mouse. In other embodiments a magnet or magnetic material may be placed with the housing of the mouse.

In some embodiments of the invention the panel 1 1 may comprise a sensing device for determining the position of the pointing device thereupon, for example but not limited to, the sensing device may take the form of a capacitive sensing trackpad or resistive touchpad, in other embodiments the sensing device may be optical for example may interact with a light source mounted in the pointing device.

The carriage 20b and/or pointing device may be biased to the rest position by employing magnet fields. For example the side walls 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d and or buffers 140 may be magnetic and configured to interact with a magnet within the carriage or pointing device so as create a repulsive force therebetween, such that the carriage and/or pointing device is return to a rest position upon the panel 1 1 . In other embodiments the carriage and/or pointing device may be biased either additionally or alternatively by gravity. The upper of the panel may be shaped to encourage the pointing device to a predefined location, for example the panel 1 1 may be dished or concave when viewed from an external viewpoint. In some embodiments the carriage may be omitted. Alternatively, the upper surface of the base 18 may be dished or concave such that the carriage is encouraged or biased to a predefined location thereupon.

Optionally, the device may be capable of wirelessly charging the pointing device or mouse, the carriage may be biased to a rest position in which the pointing device is located in the optimum charging position upon the panel 1 1 .

Claims

1 . An input apparatus for a computer including:

a control device;

wherein the panel comprises a biasing device for biasing the control device to a rest position thereupon.

2. An input apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the control device comprises one or more sensors for sensing movement of the control device upon the panel.

3. An input apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the control device comprises one or more sensors for sensing the position of the control device upon the panel.

4. An input apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the panel comprises one or more sensors for sensing movement of the control device upon the panel.

5. An input apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the panel comprises one or more sensors for sensing the position of the control device upon the panel.

6. An input apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the position of the control device upon the panel is mapped to a predefined position of a graphical element upon a display screen.

7. An input apparatus according to claim 1 wherein control device provides a user with haptic feedback regarding the position of the control device upon the panel.

8. An input apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the control device provides a user with haptic feedback regarding the position of a graphic element upon a display screen.

9. An input apparatus for a computer including:

a control device;

a carriage disposed within the interior of the housing and comprising at least one biasing device for biasing the carriage to a rest position within the housing; wherein the carriage comprises a first part of a magnetic coupling device and the control device comprises a second part of a magnetic coupling device, the magnetic coupling device being arranged to couple the carriage to the control device when the carriage and the control device are disposed on opposite sides of the top panel.

10. An input apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the housing comprises a pair of opposed side walls, a pair of opposed end walls, a base panel and a top panel.

1 1 . An input apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the control device comprises a processor and a sensor coupled to the processor configured to detect an amount of movement of the control device.

12. An input apparatus according to claim 9wherein the carriage comprises a processor and a sensor coupled to the processor configured to detect an amount of movement of the carriage.

13. An input apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the housing comprises a processor and a sensor coupled to the processor configured to detect an amount of movement of the carriage.

14. An input apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the housing comprises a processor and a sensor coupled to the processor configured to detect an amount of movement of the control device.

15. An input apparatus according to claim 9wherein the first part of the magnetic coupling device comprises a permanent magnet.

16. An input apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the first part of the magnetic coupling device comprises an electromagnet.

17. An input apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the first part of the magnetic coupling device comprises a ferromagnetic material.

18. An input apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the second part of the magnetic coupling device comprises a permanent magnet.

19. An input apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the second part of the magnetic coupling device comprises an electromagnet.

20. An input apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the second part of the magnetic coupling device comprises a ferromagnetic material.

21 . An input apparatus according to claim 9 comprising at least two biasing devices including a first biasing device for biasing the carriage in a first direction and a second biasing device for biasing the carriage in a second direction.

22. An input apparatus according to claim 21 wherein the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction.

23. An input apparatus according to claim 21 wherein the second direction opposes the first direction.

24. An input apparatus according to claim 9 comprising a plurality of biasing devices each arranged to define the rest position.

25. An input apparatus according to claim 9 comprising a plurality of biasing devices each applying a bias force to the carriage; the plurality of biasing devices is arranged such that the carriage is in a state of equilibrium when disposed at the rest position.

26. An input apparatus according to claim 9 comprising a plurality of biasing devices each configured to apply force to the carriage upon displacement from the rest position, and wherein the plurality of biasing devices is arranged such that the carriage is in a state of equilibrium when disposed at the rest position.

27. An input apparatus according to claim 26 wherein none of the plurality of biasing devices applies a biasing force to the carriage when the carriage is disposed in the rest position.

28. A computer system comprising:

a computer:

a computer monitor to be controlled by the computer; and

an input apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 27 coupled to the computer.

29. A computer system according to claim 28 wherein the computer comprises a graphical user interface displayed upon the computer monitor, wherein the graphical user interface is configured to pan a graphical object displayed upon the computer monitor in response to movement of the control device

30. A computer system according to claim 29 wherein the graphical object returns to a predefined position on the graphical user interface in response to the carriage and control device returning to the rest position.

31 . An input apparatus for a computer including:

32. A control device for use with the input apparatus of claim 32, the control device having a second part of a magnetic coupling device.

33. A magnetic coupling device for mounting to a computer input device to form a control device for use with the input apparatus of claim 32.

34. A magnetic coupling device according to claim 33 comprising a body portion configured and arranged to be mounted within a housing of the computer input device.

35. A magnetic coupling device according to claim 33 comprising a body portion configured and arranged to be mounted about a base of a housing of the computer input device.

36. An input apparatus for a computer including:

wherein the panel comprises a first part of biasing device for biasing a control device to a rest position when placed thereupon.

37. A control device for use with the input apparatus of claim 36, the control device comprising a second part of biasing device which couples to the first part of the biasing device when the control device is placed upon the receiving area.