Computer graphics processing and selective visual display system – Display peripheral interface input device – Including keyboard
Patent
1993-06-24
1995-03-28
Oberley, Alvin E.
Computer graphics processing and selective visual display system
Display peripheral interface input device
Including keyboard
345156, 345167, G09G 302
Patent
active
054021502
ABSTRACT:
A pivotable trackball-type computer command pointing device for entering commands into a computer has a housing and a ball retained within the housing for generating electrical signals translatable into commands for the computer. A coupling assembly removably attaches to the computer, preferably the keyboard. A knuckle joint assembly pivotally connects the housing to the coupling assembly and includes a pivot blade pivotally received in an elongated recess of a hinge pocket plate to define an axis of rotation within the housing about which the housing is rotatable. Opposing button members each carry actuation teeth which engage a corresponding row of teeth formed in a coupling frame held stationary with respect to the computer by the coupling assembly. When the button members are moved together, the actuation teeth disengage the rows of teeth to permit the housing to be selectively angularly oriented by the user. Alternatively, pawls and corresponding ratchet teeth are used to provide unidirectional orientation of the housing upon depressing one of the two button members. In another alternative embodiment, a brake member having a high coefficient of friction is used to provide a brake to engage the coupling frame. Cams selectively force the brake member against an underside of the coupling frame to lock the housing into a selected angular orientation.
REFERENCES:
patent: 4349942 (1982-09-01), Roy
patent: 4693444 (1987-09-01), Williams et al.
patent: 4913387 (1990-04-01), Tice
patent: 4917343 (1990-04-01), Wainscott
patent: 4980676 (1990-12-01), Nomura et al.
patent: 5102084 (1992-04-01), Park
patent: 5173993 (1992-12-01), Baker
patent: 5187468 (1993-02-01), Garthwaite et al.
patent: 5187746 (1993-02-01), Garthwaite et al.
"IconTroller.TM. Keyboard Mounted Joystick", packaging advertisement Suncom.
Chang Vivian W.
Oberley Alvin E.
Stratos Product Development Group, Inc.
LandOfFree
Pointing device with improved pivot does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.
If you have personal experience with Pointing device with improved pivot, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Pointing device with improved pivot will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-2253965