Miniature isometric joystick
Patent 5889507 Issued on March 30, 1999. Estimated Expiration Date: 
July 24, 2016. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.
July 24, 2016. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.Patent References 3317698 3849611 3921166 Miniaturized calculator keyboard switch assembly having universally pivoted key actuators Jumper touch sensor current switching device Force-displacement controller knob Pressure sensitive switch Pressure-sensitive resistors Switch apparatus Cursor control InventorsAssigneeApplicationNo. 685486 filed on 07/24/1996US Classes:345/161, Joystick345/168Including keyboardExaminersPrimary: Nguyen, ChauAttorney, Agent or FirmForeign Patent References
International ClassG09G 005/08AbstractA miniature isometric joystick is disclosed for receiving manual user input to effect directional control such as controlling cursor movement on a computer display screen or controlling movement of an apparatus such as a machine or robot. The joystick is arranged to fit between the existing keys in a computer keyboard. The joystick includes a preloading spring for compressing the assembly together, thereby biasing the force sensors so as to neutralize manufacturing variations and control electrical and mechanical null zones. An integrated switch is provided in the joystick for detecting an external force applied by the user's fingertip. The switch unobtrusively detects when a user is pointing, thereby allowing a control system to measure pointing system bias signals while the user is not pointing. This permits the control system to automatically correct for drift, without requiring additional keyboard space for a separate switch to enable the pointing device.Other References
Field of SearchDISPLAY PERIPHERAL INTERFACE INPUT DEVICECursor mark position control device Cursor key Joystick Including keyboard Mechanical control (e.g., rotatable knob, slider) With independent operators Universally pivoted handle Compressible elastomer Specific dome shape Covers Seal for push button actuator Push button Including lost motion connection Hinged button (e.g., piano key) Mechanism to keep key level Cap/stem and stem/housing details Including additional actuator Including tactile feedback mechanism Trigger actuator Surfaces pressed together (e.g., compressible type) Deformable Plural Control moves in two planes Knob or dial BODILY ACTUATED CODE GENERATOR Including keyboard or keypad With audible or tactile indicator Pressure sensitive actuation Photoelectric or optical-type measuring instruments Key-cap or key-stem structure Including cushioning means (e.g., yieldable surface) With sensory indicator (e.g., sound, tactile response, etc.) Including means for mounting key cap or key stem | |
