Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC

Mitutoyo Corporation

Michael Vilhauer

Peter Wesley Bristol

John K Ikeda

Michael Nahum

Casey Edward Emtman

Yuhua Ding

Edward Charles Owen

Ingrid Lin

A control device includes an input mechanism having an actuation surface that is configurable by a user between at least two different surface topologies. In a first configuration, the surface topology may provide a first shape for receiving user input and in a second configuration provide a second shape for receiving user input. The actuation surface in one example includes the upper surface of an input pad having a plurality of input arms and the upper surface of a fill pad having a plurality of fill tabs. At least one of the input pad and the fill pad may be moved in a direction of an axis perpendicular to the face of the control device to change the distance between the upper surfaces. The actuation surface in one example is rotatable to cause translation of at least one of the pads in the direction of the perpendicular axis.

Controller with transformable surface topology

A low cost digital ruler with desirable ergonomic characteristics and accuracy. A low friction sliding position indicator includes a compliant element that forces its connection pads against the ruler's electronic scale contacts, to determining measurement positions. The position indicator includes an instrument receiving feature that engages a writing instrument and moves in conjunction with it, thereby measuring a line as it is drawn. A position indicator preload arrangement includes the compliant element, which is deflected to exert a preload that forces the sliding position indicator against a housing of the digital ruler. Alignment features of the position indicator and housing have cross sections that provide a self-aligning angled interference fit, which accurately aligns the sliding position indicator, under the action of the preload force. Misalignment constraint surfaces constrain the sliding position indicator in approximate alignment by, even if an external force overcomes the preload force.

Digital ruler with low-friction sliding contact

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Kirkland, WA, United States of America

Michael Vilhauer