The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Dec. 26, 1995
Filed:
Feb. 15, 1991
George L Carroll, Jr, Arlington Heights, IL (US);
Michael A Slavin, Palm Beach Gardens, FL (US);
Other;
Abstract
A multifunction space bar for control of a video screen graphics cursor for replacement of, or as a supplement to, a second peripheral pointing device without keyboard modification. The device is a conventional space bar replacement and fits within the confines of conventional keyboards allowing the retro-fit of existing keyboards. The device is capable of supplying information signals determining rotational, sliding, and switch depression movements for control of video screen graphics cursor on a microprocessor based computer system having bus input control electronics for receipt of supply information signals. The device utilizes a positioner slidably secured to a cylindrical bar whereby rotation of the positioner generates a directional signal control of the graphic cursor along the y-axis. Slidable movement of the positioner longitudinally along the length of the cylindrical bar generates a directional signal for control of the graphic cursor along the x-axis. Both signals can be operated simultaneously. A plurality of switches are placed on the front of the device's support structure providing mouse button emulation and disabling/enabling for operation as a supplemental device.