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:
Apr. 09, 2002
Filed:
Jul. 23, 1999
Frank Miceli, Orlando, FL (US);
John Albert Maze, Orlando, FL (US);
William Graham Easter, Orlando, FL (US);
Lucent Technologies Inc., Murray Hill, NJ (US);
Abstract
A method and apparatus for controlling a pointer on a computer screen adapted for use by individuals with limited or no manual dexterity. A track ball is positioned to protrude from the upper surface of a generally partially cylindrically shaped base. A mating cradle sits on top of the base with its lower surface in contact with the upper surface of the track ball and the upper surface of the base. The upper surface of the cradle support is shaped to accept the forearm of an operator. The track ball is coupled in a known fashion to operate a pointer on a computer display. The operator can move the cursor up and down on the screen by pushing his or her arm outwardly or inwardly and can move the cursor left to right on the screen by rotating his or her arm in the cradle about its longitudinal axis.