摘要:
A pointing device which is removably attachable to a keyboard is disclosed. The pointing device is coupled to an attachment assembly, the attachment assembly being removably and selectively attachable to the keyboard. The attachment assembly includes a coupling assembly and a tilting assembly. The full weight of the pointing device is supported by the computer so that a work surface is not necessary. In one embodiment, a clamping assembly is provided. The clamp assembly includes a variable width clamp to permit the pointing device to be attached to any one of a number of different keyboards or in different positions on the same keyboard. The tilting assembly permits the user to select whether the pointing device is in a horizontal, vertical or other orientation. A rotatable ball of the pointing device is retained in contact with the rotation sensing encoders regardless of the orientation of the housing. The buttons for activating switches to enter commands into the computer overlap a top portion and a side portion of the pointing device.
摘要:
A pointing device which is removably attachable to a keyboard is disclosed. The pointing device is coupled to an attachment assembly, the attachment assembly being removably and selectively attachable to the keyboard. The attachment assembly includes a clamp and a tilting assembly. The clamp includes a variable width clamp to permit the pointing device to be attached to any one of a number of different keyboards or in different positions on the same keyboard. The tilting assembly permits the user to select whether the pointing device is in a horizontal, vertical or other orientation. A rotatable ball of the pointing device is retained in contact with the rotation sensing encoders regardless of the orientation of the housing. The buttons for activating switches to enter commands into the computer overlap a top portion and a side portion of the pointing device. The switches are activated by a user pressing downward on the top region or inward from the side region.
摘要:
A user-configurable computer and pointing device combination and method are disclosed. The user establishes a relationship between a direction of rotation of the ball and direction of movement of the cursor on the screen. This relationship is stored by the computer to maintain a consistency between the direction of rotation of the ball and the direction of movement of the cursor on the screen. Accordingly, the user is able to establish the relationship between the screen coordinate system and his hand coordinate system. Advantageously, a left-handed user may establish a coordinate system based on left-handed use while a right-handed user may re-establish the coordinate system based on right-handed use.
摘要:
A computer command and pointing device that attaches directly to the computer or keyboard without the need for external electrical cables. A BallPoint.TM. mouse has a multi-axis mechanical engagement assembly that allows the mouse to be inserted into a recess in the computer or keyboard and have its weight fully supported by the engagement assembly. The engagement assembly provides tight mechanical coupling between the mouse and the recess, but permits the disconnection of the mouse if excessive force is applied to the mouse. The engagement assembly includes an electrical connector that permits the coupling of electrical signals between the mouse and the computer. The connector pins in the electrical connector are individually spring-loaded to allow the connector pins to recede into the electrical connector when force is applied. A mating electrical connector plate, mounted within the recess, is a flat plate made of an insulating material with electrically conductive pads on the surface thereof. The connector pins of the electrical connector electrically couple electrical signals between the mouse and the computer when the engagement assembly mechanically couples the mouse into the recess. The electrical connector does not require precise alignment of the engagement assembly when installing or removing the mouse. If excessive force is applied to the mouse, it disconnects from the recess without damaging the mouse or the computer.