Daniel S Hull

US Patent:

45800065, Apr 1, 1986

Filed:

Jun 14, 1984

Appl. No.:

6/620488

Inventors:

Daniel T. Hull - Medford MA

International Classification:

G08C 2100

US Classification:

178 18

Abstract:

An apparatus and methods for providing two-dimensional positioning data signals for positioning an indicating element have an upper, hand-movable member having a center of rotational movement in close proximity to a palm carrying surface. A fixed base support provides a frictional supporting surface for the hand movable member so that any discontinuities of friction arising from the operation of the sensing elements described below are masked. Position sensing elements provide electrical signals corresponding to the position of the hand movable member. The position signals are processed to provide for a fixed mapping of hand movable element position to indicating element position when either the x or y axis position signals are changing at a rate greater than a preset threshold, and for a (low) fixed ratio incremental positioning otherwise.