CA2428947A1 - Computer mouse - Google Patents
Computer mouse Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2428947A1 CA2428947A1 CA002428947A CA2428947A CA2428947A1 CA 2428947 A1 CA2428947 A1 CA 2428947A1 CA 002428947 A CA002428947 A CA 002428947A CA 2428947 A CA2428947 A CA 2428947A CA 2428947 A1 CA2428947 A1 CA 2428947A1
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- housing
- buttons
- mouse
- computer
- computer mouse
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
- G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
- G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
- G06F3/033—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor
- G06F3/0354—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
- G06F3/03543—Mice or pucks
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F2203/00—Indexing scheme relating to G06F3/00 - G06F3/048
- G06F2203/033—Indexing scheme relating to G06F3/033
- G06F2203/0333—Ergonomic shaped mouse for one hand
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
- Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Position Input By Displaying (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention provides a computer mouse adapted for use by children wherein the mouse has a housing which is ergonomically designed for use by an operator having small hands. Enclosed within the housing is an X-Y generator which enables the determination of relative movement of the housing on a surface, wherein this information is translated into a movement of the "cursor" on the display device of the computer system to which the computer mouse is interconnected. Further interconnected with the housing are first and second buttons common to a typical computer mouse, wherein these buttons enable the activation of one or more responses from the computing device upon the depression of these buttons commonly referred to as "clicking". The first and second button s are designed in a manner that they extend beyond the perimeter of the housing. In this manner the force to be exerted by a child in order to depress one of these buttons is reduced due to the lever arm that is associated therewith, when compared to the required activation force of a smaller button which would be associated with a typical mouse that has been reduced in size.
In addition, by the extension of these buttons the identification thereof by a child is simplier and therefore operation of the buttons can be more convenient.
In addition, by the extension of these buttons the identification thereof by a child is simplier and therefore operation of the buttons can be more convenient.
Description
COMPUTER MOUSE
h'IEI~I) OF THE INVENTION
The present invention pertains to the field of computer systems and in particular to control input devices for use with computing systems.
BACICGIZOUNI~
Data input devices have been used since the sixties as a graphic user interface (GUI) to allow a user to input certain information into computer systems and to modify or operate on images or information displayed on an output screen attached to the computer system.
Examples of input devices are trackballs, computer mice, and graphic tablets. These input devices translate motion applied to the input device into digital data bits delivered to the computer system and allow an individual to communicate with computers. "Mouse" is the terminology used in computer science to refer to a pointing device which is slid along a flat surface causing a ball extending out of a lower surface of the device to rotate and, in turn create x and y output signals as a result of said movement, the signals causing a cursor on the connected computer screen to move and allows the user to point to obaects on the screen, for example as defined in United States Patent Nos. 3,835,464 and 3,987,685. The mouse also incorporates at least two buttons which are electronically connected to the computer system such that a single or double depression (click) of each button causes a specific action or interaction to occur on the screen.
An alternative mechanical pointing devices use a ball and track assembly to transfer hand or finger generated movement on the ball and communicate it to the computer. In a track ball system a stationary body encloses electronic circuitry to generate an output signal similar to that of a mouse for transmission to a computer. A moveable ball mounted in the body and extending above the body is rotated by the user. This movement, in turn, drives the electronic x and y components in the base. Buttons similar to those on a mouse are used to input and activate certain sequences corresponding to the graphical command chosen.
h'IEI~I) OF THE INVENTION
The present invention pertains to the field of computer systems and in particular to control input devices for use with computing systems.
BACICGIZOUNI~
Data input devices have been used since the sixties as a graphic user interface (GUI) to allow a user to input certain information into computer systems and to modify or operate on images or information displayed on an output screen attached to the computer system.
Examples of input devices are trackballs, computer mice, and graphic tablets. These input devices translate motion applied to the input device into digital data bits delivered to the computer system and allow an individual to communicate with computers. "Mouse" is the terminology used in computer science to refer to a pointing device which is slid along a flat surface causing a ball extending out of a lower surface of the device to rotate and, in turn create x and y output signals as a result of said movement, the signals causing a cursor on the connected computer screen to move and allows the user to point to obaects on the screen, for example as defined in United States Patent Nos. 3,835,464 and 3,987,685. The mouse also incorporates at least two buttons which are electronically connected to the computer system such that a single or double depression (click) of each button causes a specific action or interaction to occur on the screen.
An alternative mechanical pointing devices use a ball and track assembly to transfer hand or finger generated movement on the ball and communicate it to the computer. In a track ball system a stationary body encloses electronic circuitry to generate an output signal similar to that of a mouse for transmission to a computer. A moveable ball mounted in the body and extending above the body is rotated by the user. This movement, in turn, drives the electronic x and y components in the base. Buttons similar to those on a mouse are used to input and activate certain sequences corresponding to the graphical command chosen.
More recent developments include mechanical pointing devices which have optical, optomechanical, or pressure sensitive pads as pointing or input devices. The signal from the GUI may be transmitted from the GUI to the computer electronics by a hard wire connection or other transmission means which use optical outputs, such as focused CT~1 visible or IR light beams, or radio frequency transmission such as FM or microwave, or otlher suitable methods of transmitting information over distances without a hard cable linkage.
The prior art is replete with patents and disclosures of different shaped and appearing mouses and track balls as well as the electronic and mechanical features of the devices, for example United States Patent Nos. 6,429,851, 5,692,956 and 5,245,146.
Also there are various design patents to computer mice or track balls in the shape of various objects such as cars (U.S. Pat. No. 5,245,146, U.S. Pat. No. Des. 374,001, U.S. Pat. No. Des.
404,027), surf boards (U.S. Pat. No. Des. 371,772), a baseball cap (U.S. Pat.
No. Des.
386,160) or football helmet (U.S. Pat. No. Des. 369,154), various sport halls (U.S. Pat. No.
Des. 362,242, U.S. Pat. No. Des. 361,559), movie characters such as Micky Mouse (U.S. Pat.
No. Des. 370,219) and Star War characters as well as certain animals (U.S.
Pat. No. Des.
387,338, U.S. Pat. No. Des. 398,297, U.S. Pat. No. Des. 400,194,). However, these devices function in the same manner as the prior art mice or track balls, portions of the design being buttons functioning in the same manner as the buttons on the prior art devices, the primary difference being the surface features and appearances. Also cloth or plastic covers for the mouse are also available, such as a cloth mouse which, when attached, makes the computer mouse appear like a stuffed animal mouse.
In the past, the use of computers was limited to professionals who used them at work or could afford them at home. With the recent drop in computer prises and the integration of computers in children's education, computers have become a part of mainstream culture. The average age of these computer users is constantly dropping especially with the increase of the software market targeted at families and young children Software even exists for pre-verbal children. However, these children have to deal with computer components that have been designed for adults. In the current market, computer mice fit under the palm of an adult's hand, but prove difficult for children to use. Therefore, there is a need for a new computer mouse designed particularly for use by children and having the smaller hand size thereof in mind, as such resulting in a more ergonimically designed computer mouse for children.
This background information is provided for the purpose of making known information believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance to the present invention. I~lo admission is necessarily intended, nor should be construed, that any of the preceding information constitutes prior art against the present invention.
SUMMA12Y ~F THE IliTVEI'~TI~I~1 An object of the present invention is to provide a computer mouse. In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer mouse comprising:
a housing having a front region and a perimeter; an X-Y generator operatively connected to said housing for providing information relating to the movement of the housing by an I 5 operator; and first and second buttons positioned in the front region of the housing for initiating responses from a computer system, said buttons being elongated members that extend beyond the perimeter of the housing, thereby providing for ease of identification and operation of said buttons by an operator; wherein the computer mouse is operatively connected to said computer system.
In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, there is provided a computer mouse adapted for use by children, said computer mouse comprising: a housing having a front region and a perimeter, said housing being an ergonomical design for use by children; an X-Y
generator operatively connected to said housing for providing information relating to the movement of the housing by an operator; and first and second buttons positioned in the front region of the housing for initiating responses from a computer system, said buttons being elongated members that extend beyond the perimeter of the housing, thereby providing for ease of identification and operation of said buttons by an operator; wherein the computer mouse is operatively connected to said computer system.
The prior art is replete with patents and disclosures of different shaped and appearing mouses and track balls as well as the electronic and mechanical features of the devices, for example United States Patent Nos. 6,429,851, 5,692,956 and 5,245,146.
Also there are various design patents to computer mice or track balls in the shape of various objects such as cars (U.S. Pat. No. 5,245,146, U.S. Pat. No. Des. 374,001, U.S. Pat. No. Des.
404,027), surf boards (U.S. Pat. No. Des. 371,772), a baseball cap (U.S. Pat.
No. Des.
386,160) or football helmet (U.S. Pat. No. Des. 369,154), various sport halls (U.S. Pat. No.
Des. 362,242, U.S. Pat. No. Des. 361,559), movie characters such as Micky Mouse (U.S. Pat.
No. Des. 370,219) and Star War characters as well as certain animals (U.S.
Pat. No. Des.
387,338, U.S. Pat. No. Des. 398,297, U.S. Pat. No. Des. 400,194,). However, these devices function in the same manner as the prior art mice or track balls, portions of the design being buttons functioning in the same manner as the buttons on the prior art devices, the primary difference being the surface features and appearances. Also cloth or plastic covers for the mouse are also available, such as a cloth mouse which, when attached, makes the computer mouse appear like a stuffed animal mouse.
In the past, the use of computers was limited to professionals who used them at work or could afford them at home. With the recent drop in computer prises and the integration of computers in children's education, computers have become a part of mainstream culture. The average age of these computer users is constantly dropping especially with the increase of the software market targeted at families and young children Software even exists for pre-verbal children. However, these children have to deal with computer components that have been designed for adults. In the current market, computer mice fit under the palm of an adult's hand, but prove difficult for children to use. Therefore, there is a need for a new computer mouse designed particularly for use by children and having the smaller hand size thereof in mind, as such resulting in a more ergonimically designed computer mouse for children.
This background information is provided for the purpose of making known information believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance to the present invention. I~lo admission is necessarily intended, nor should be construed, that any of the preceding information constitutes prior art against the present invention.
SUMMA12Y ~F THE IliTVEI'~TI~I~1 An object of the present invention is to provide a computer mouse. In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer mouse comprising:
a housing having a front region and a perimeter; an X-Y generator operatively connected to said housing for providing information relating to the movement of the housing by an I 5 operator; and first and second buttons positioned in the front region of the housing for initiating responses from a computer system, said buttons being elongated members that extend beyond the perimeter of the housing, thereby providing for ease of identification and operation of said buttons by an operator; wherein the computer mouse is operatively connected to said computer system.
In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, there is provided a computer mouse adapted for use by children, said computer mouse comprising: a housing having a front region and a perimeter, said housing being an ergonomical design for use by children; an X-Y
generator operatively connected to said housing for providing information relating to the movement of the housing by an operator; and first and second buttons positioned in the front region of the housing for initiating responses from a computer system, said buttons being elongated members that extend beyond the perimeter of the housing, thereby providing for ease of identification and operation of said buttons by an operator; wherein the computer mouse is operatively connected to said computer system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Figure 1 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a side view of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a bottom view of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a computer mouse adapted for use by children wherein the mouse has a housing which is ergonomically designed for rzse by an operator having small hands. As such the physical size of the housing is smaller and the placement of the components within the housing providing the functionality of the computer mouse are closer in proximity having regard to a standard computer mouse configuration.
Enclosed within the housing is an X-Y generator which enables the determination of relative movement of the housing on a surface, wherein this infomation is translated into a movement of the "cursor"
on the display device of the computer system to which the computer mouse is interconnected.
Further interconnected with the housing are first and second buttons common to a typical computer mouse, wherein these buttons enable the activation of one or more responses from the computing device upon the depression of these buttons commonly referred to as "clicking". As the housing of the computer mouse has been ergonomically designed for the use by children, and as such the physical size of the device is reduced the size of these buttons would typically be reduced as well. The first and second button s are designed in a manner that they extend beyond the perimeter of the housing. In this manner the force to be exerted by a child in order to depress one of these buttons is reduced due to the lever arm that is associated therewith, when compared to the required activation force of a smaller button which would be associated with a typical mouse that has been reduced in size.
In addition, by the extension of these buttons the identification thereof by a child is simplier and therefore operation of the buttons can be more convenient.
Housing The housing of the computer mouse is ergonomically designed for the smaller hand size of a child. As such the physical size of the housing is smaller and in addition the curvatures associated with the housing can be modified in order to produce a housing that is comfortable for use by children. In one embodiment of the invention, a variety of sizes of the housing can be fabricated such that the housing can be appropriate to the hand size o:F
child and in addition to account for the changing hand size of a child during the growing phase.
Due to the popularity of animals with children, the housing can be forme°,d in the shape of animals or other popular characters. In this example, the housing can be manufactured from a standard colour of material or a particular colour of material, wherein the housing can be subsequently painted or coloured in order to provide added visual representation of the animal, character or vehicle, for example, that is represented by the housing.
However if the housing is formed into a specific shape there is no longer the ability to modify the shape of this component in the future. Therefore, in another embodiment, the housing can be designed in a standard shape and father have associated therewith one or more interconnection points wherein interchangable components) can be added to the housing in order to form other shapes, animals, characters, various different cartoon characters, different animals, objects, ships, or other popular images. In this manner this added feature can provide children with an added level of creativity and interaction since flue housing provides the opportunity for the user to use interchangeable parts to form different animals and characters using the same housing. Optionally further creativity can be exercised by the connection of interchangable parts relating to different animals or characters with the housing, thereby resulting in a miss and match type scenario.
In one embodiment, wherein various interchangable parts are associated with the housing, these various interchangable parts can be attached to the body by various different means such as a mechanical clip, hook and loop fasteners, commony referred to as VeIcroTM
fasteners, snaps, ball and socket connectors and other well known attachment devices easily handled by children or others.
. _ _.._ ". ,, , . ",. , w., ,", . , .. .,. , ~ . ..
X Y C'renerato~
The X-Y generator is integrated into the housing of the computer mouse according to the present invention, and provides a means for determining the movement of the mouse along a planar surface. This translation of the mouse is subsequently transmitted to the computer system and results in the movement of an "object" or "cursor" on the display system associated with the computer system.
In one embodiment of the present invention the X-Y generator is a roller ball disposed in an aperature at the base of the housing. This roller ball is in direct contact with two components that evaluate the X and Y directional movement of the roller ball resulting from the movement of the housing on a surface. Alternately, the X-'Y generator can be of a track ball configuration wherein a rotatable ball is disposed in an aperature on the t:op surface of the housing. An operator can directly rotate the track ball which is in contact with with two components that evaluate the X and Y directional movement of the track ball, wherein the housing does not move. Futhermore, the X-Y generator can be in the form of an optical type of sensor which tracks the movement of the housing over a surface. A worker skilled in the art would understand additional types and configuration of the X-Y generator which would provide the desired functionality of the device.
First and Second Buttons The computer mouse according to the present invention further comprises first and second buttons, wherein these two buttons provide a means for initiating responses from the computing system to which the computer mouse of the present invention is interconnected.
These two buttons perform the same functionality as the buttons on a typical computer mouse as would readily be understood by a worker skilled in the art. These two buttons are elongated members which extend beyond the "footprint" or perimeter of the housing. This type of configuration of the two elongated buttons provides a number of forms of functionality to the computer mouse according to the present invention.
J~
Due to the reduction in the physical size of the housing associated with the computer mouse of the present invention, the size of the buttons associated with a typical mouse reduced to a comparable size, would reduced as well. In this case, the force to be applied to the buttons in order to activate them, would be increased due to the shorter length of the lever arm due to the reduction of the size of the button. According to the present invention, these buttons are formed as elongated members which extend beyond the perimeter of the housing and as such result in a lever arm length which can reduce the force to be exerted by an operator in order to activate the button. Furthermore, due to the extension of these buttons beyond the perimeter of the housing, the visual identification of these buttons will additionally be improved.
As a further example, as the housing of the computer mouse according to the present invention is ergonomically designed for a child user, an adult may have difficulty using this device due to the small configuration thereof. Therefore, the elongated buttons associated with the present invention provide a further result wherein the additional length can provide ease of activation of these buttons by an adult. As such, this elongation of the buttons can produce a configuration which is more compatible with the size of an adult's hand, thereby providing for easier use by an adult that is aiding a child with the operation of the computer, for example.
In one embodiment of the invention, the elongated buttons can additionally be concave, thereby providing a recess in which the fingers of an operator can be placed.
This type of concavity of the elongated buttons can provide a means for an operator to maintain the placement of their fingers on the buttons, for example.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the elongated buttons can additonally be painted coloured or fabricated from a material that can provide additional representation of the desired aesthetic effect. For example, if the elongated buttons represent ears, they can be painted or coloured accordingly, and if these buttons are concave as well, this concavity can represent the internal portion of an ear, for example. Optionally the elongated buttons can be covered with a textured finish in order to additionally provide for forger position retention.
In addition to providing an aesthetic effect, the differentiating of the colour or texture of the elongated buttons can additionally provide a means for an operator to identify these features either by sight or by feel. Furthermore, due to their elongated positioning with respect to the housing, the identification of the position of the elongated buttons by touch can further be enhanced.
In one embodiment of the present invention, interchangable parts can be associated with these elongated buttons which can be designed to match the interchangable parts associated with the housing of the computer mouse. These interchangable parts for association with the elongated buttons can be mechanically connected to the top of the button or optionally can be a sleeve that covers the button while still enabling the button to perform the desired functionality.
Additional Functionality The housing of the present invention can additionally incorporate a lighting system, wherein a lighting devices) can be positioned at one or more locations within the housing and this lighting system can be activated upon the depressing of one of the buttons or by the movement of the housing along a surface, for example. This lighting system can equally be associted with one or more of the interchangable parts, wherein in this example, electrical interconnection must be established between the housing and the interchangable part in order to energise the lighting system within the interchangable part. The lighting system can be in the form of LEDs or other type of light sources as would be known to a worker skilled in the art or optionally the light source can be a laser type of device. In addition, depressing one of the buttons or the movement of the housing can trigger a sound, which may be related to the animal or object represented by the computer mouse, for example, a cat may meow, a dog may bark, or a car may go "vroom". Sound device means, such as a sound chip or magnetic recording tape system and a speaker may also be provided to cause sounds to emanate from the computer mouse, or the computer to which it is attached. As would be known to a worker skilled in the art, in order to activate one of these types of systems, a form of electrical power may have to be associated with the housing in the form of a battery or the like.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the housing can additionally comprise a LCD
screen, wherein information can be displayed on the computer mouse itself for example.
This type of informaton can be in the form of static or dynamic images, text or other forms of information for example. When the images presented on the LCD screen are dynamic in nature, the image can be related to the object that the computer mouse represents. For example, if the mouse represents a face, the LCD display can adjust the facial expressions of the mouth or other portions of the face, for example. This movement may even be interconnected with the movement of the device or the activation of the buttons. A worker skilled in the art would readily understand the types of controllers that are required and the electrical power supply that would have to be integrated into the mouse in order to provide this type of functionality.
In one embodiment of the invention, the housing can additionally comprise a switching device which provides a means for controlling the flow of energy from a local energy source, for example a battery, located within the housing. In this manner, energy conservation can be provided, in addition to the termination of the functionality of the additional features if desired.
The computer mouse according to the present invention can addition comprise a scroll wheel which is typically integrated into a common mouse and having a similar functionality. In one embodiment of the invention, the scroll wheel is embodied within the housing and positioned between the two elongated buttons. In another embodiment, the scroll wlheel can extend beyond the perimeter of the housing and additionally be a larger size. In this manner the scroll wheel can be more easily manipulated and identified by an operator, for example.
The signal from the computer mouse of the present invention may be transmitted from the mouse to the computer electronics by a hard wire connection or other transmission means which use optical outputs, such as focused UV, visible or IR light beams, or radio frequency transmission such as FM or microwave, BluetoothTM or other wireless transmission protocols like IEEE 802.11, or other suitable methods of transmitting information over distances without a hard cable linkage. A worker skilled in the art would readily understand how to design this type of functionality into the present invention.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the computer mouse is conf gored as illustrated in Figures I to 3, wherein this embodiment is illustrated in a number of different views. The housing 10, has enclosed in it the X-Y generator 50 and at the top of the housing 10 is situated the pair of elongated buttons 20. The interconnection cable 30 provides a means for transmitting the signals provided by the elongated buttons and the X-Y
generator to the computer system to which the mouse is connected. This embodiment of the invention, further comprises a scroll wheel 40 as is typically provided on current versions of a computer mouse.
While the above defines the configuration of the computer mouse according to the present invention with the integration of elongated buttons, for use by children. It may equally be 1 S useful for use by people with a physical or mental handicap. In this example, the housing can be sized as a normal mouse and the elongated buttons form a button activation region which is easier to distinguish visually and physically activate as compared to a normal mouse type configuration.
The embodiments of the invention being thus described, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.
Figure 1 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a side view of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a bottom view of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a computer mouse adapted for use by children wherein the mouse has a housing which is ergonomically designed for rzse by an operator having small hands. As such the physical size of the housing is smaller and the placement of the components within the housing providing the functionality of the computer mouse are closer in proximity having regard to a standard computer mouse configuration.
Enclosed within the housing is an X-Y generator which enables the determination of relative movement of the housing on a surface, wherein this infomation is translated into a movement of the "cursor"
on the display device of the computer system to which the computer mouse is interconnected.
Further interconnected with the housing are first and second buttons common to a typical computer mouse, wherein these buttons enable the activation of one or more responses from the computing device upon the depression of these buttons commonly referred to as "clicking". As the housing of the computer mouse has been ergonomically designed for the use by children, and as such the physical size of the device is reduced the size of these buttons would typically be reduced as well. The first and second button s are designed in a manner that they extend beyond the perimeter of the housing. In this manner the force to be exerted by a child in order to depress one of these buttons is reduced due to the lever arm that is associated therewith, when compared to the required activation force of a smaller button which would be associated with a typical mouse that has been reduced in size.
In addition, by the extension of these buttons the identification thereof by a child is simplier and therefore operation of the buttons can be more convenient.
Housing The housing of the computer mouse is ergonomically designed for the smaller hand size of a child. As such the physical size of the housing is smaller and in addition the curvatures associated with the housing can be modified in order to produce a housing that is comfortable for use by children. In one embodiment of the invention, a variety of sizes of the housing can be fabricated such that the housing can be appropriate to the hand size o:F
child and in addition to account for the changing hand size of a child during the growing phase.
Due to the popularity of animals with children, the housing can be forme°,d in the shape of animals or other popular characters. In this example, the housing can be manufactured from a standard colour of material or a particular colour of material, wherein the housing can be subsequently painted or coloured in order to provide added visual representation of the animal, character or vehicle, for example, that is represented by the housing.
However if the housing is formed into a specific shape there is no longer the ability to modify the shape of this component in the future. Therefore, in another embodiment, the housing can be designed in a standard shape and father have associated therewith one or more interconnection points wherein interchangable components) can be added to the housing in order to form other shapes, animals, characters, various different cartoon characters, different animals, objects, ships, or other popular images. In this manner this added feature can provide children with an added level of creativity and interaction since flue housing provides the opportunity for the user to use interchangeable parts to form different animals and characters using the same housing. Optionally further creativity can be exercised by the connection of interchangable parts relating to different animals or characters with the housing, thereby resulting in a miss and match type scenario.
In one embodiment, wherein various interchangable parts are associated with the housing, these various interchangable parts can be attached to the body by various different means such as a mechanical clip, hook and loop fasteners, commony referred to as VeIcroTM
fasteners, snaps, ball and socket connectors and other well known attachment devices easily handled by children or others.
. _ _.._ ". ,, , . ",. , w., ,", . , .. .,. , ~ . ..
X Y C'renerato~
The X-Y generator is integrated into the housing of the computer mouse according to the present invention, and provides a means for determining the movement of the mouse along a planar surface. This translation of the mouse is subsequently transmitted to the computer system and results in the movement of an "object" or "cursor" on the display system associated with the computer system.
In one embodiment of the present invention the X-Y generator is a roller ball disposed in an aperature at the base of the housing. This roller ball is in direct contact with two components that evaluate the X and Y directional movement of the roller ball resulting from the movement of the housing on a surface. Alternately, the X-'Y generator can be of a track ball configuration wherein a rotatable ball is disposed in an aperature on the t:op surface of the housing. An operator can directly rotate the track ball which is in contact with with two components that evaluate the X and Y directional movement of the track ball, wherein the housing does not move. Futhermore, the X-Y generator can be in the form of an optical type of sensor which tracks the movement of the housing over a surface. A worker skilled in the art would understand additional types and configuration of the X-Y generator which would provide the desired functionality of the device.
First and Second Buttons The computer mouse according to the present invention further comprises first and second buttons, wherein these two buttons provide a means for initiating responses from the computing system to which the computer mouse of the present invention is interconnected.
These two buttons perform the same functionality as the buttons on a typical computer mouse as would readily be understood by a worker skilled in the art. These two buttons are elongated members which extend beyond the "footprint" or perimeter of the housing. This type of configuration of the two elongated buttons provides a number of forms of functionality to the computer mouse according to the present invention.
J~
Due to the reduction in the physical size of the housing associated with the computer mouse of the present invention, the size of the buttons associated with a typical mouse reduced to a comparable size, would reduced as well. In this case, the force to be applied to the buttons in order to activate them, would be increased due to the shorter length of the lever arm due to the reduction of the size of the button. According to the present invention, these buttons are formed as elongated members which extend beyond the perimeter of the housing and as such result in a lever arm length which can reduce the force to be exerted by an operator in order to activate the button. Furthermore, due to the extension of these buttons beyond the perimeter of the housing, the visual identification of these buttons will additionally be improved.
As a further example, as the housing of the computer mouse according to the present invention is ergonomically designed for a child user, an adult may have difficulty using this device due to the small configuration thereof. Therefore, the elongated buttons associated with the present invention provide a further result wherein the additional length can provide ease of activation of these buttons by an adult. As such, this elongation of the buttons can produce a configuration which is more compatible with the size of an adult's hand, thereby providing for easier use by an adult that is aiding a child with the operation of the computer, for example.
In one embodiment of the invention, the elongated buttons can additionally be concave, thereby providing a recess in which the fingers of an operator can be placed.
This type of concavity of the elongated buttons can provide a means for an operator to maintain the placement of their fingers on the buttons, for example.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the elongated buttons can additonally be painted coloured or fabricated from a material that can provide additional representation of the desired aesthetic effect. For example, if the elongated buttons represent ears, they can be painted or coloured accordingly, and if these buttons are concave as well, this concavity can represent the internal portion of an ear, for example. Optionally the elongated buttons can be covered with a textured finish in order to additionally provide for forger position retention.
In addition to providing an aesthetic effect, the differentiating of the colour or texture of the elongated buttons can additionally provide a means for an operator to identify these features either by sight or by feel. Furthermore, due to their elongated positioning with respect to the housing, the identification of the position of the elongated buttons by touch can further be enhanced.
In one embodiment of the present invention, interchangable parts can be associated with these elongated buttons which can be designed to match the interchangable parts associated with the housing of the computer mouse. These interchangable parts for association with the elongated buttons can be mechanically connected to the top of the button or optionally can be a sleeve that covers the button while still enabling the button to perform the desired functionality.
Additional Functionality The housing of the present invention can additionally incorporate a lighting system, wherein a lighting devices) can be positioned at one or more locations within the housing and this lighting system can be activated upon the depressing of one of the buttons or by the movement of the housing along a surface, for example. This lighting system can equally be associted with one or more of the interchangable parts, wherein in this example, electrical interconnection must be established between the housing and the interchangable part in order to energise the lighting system within the interchangable part. The lighting system can be in the form of LEDs or other type of light sources as would be known to a worker skilled in the art or optionally the light source can be a laser type of device. In addition, depressing one of the buttons or the movement of the housing can trigger a sound, which may be related to the animal or object represented by the computer mouse, for example, a cat may meow, a dog may bark, or a car may go "vroom". Sound device means, such as a sound chip or magnetic recording tape system and a speaker may also be provided to cause sounds to emanate from the computer mouse, or the computer to which it is attached. As would be known to a worker skilled in the art, in order to activate one of these types of systems, a form of electrical power may have to be associated with the housing in the form of a battery or the like.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the housing can additionally comprise a LCD
screen, wherein information can be displayed on the computer mouse itself for example.
This type of informaton can be in the form of static or dynamic images, text or other forms of information for example. When the images presented on the LCD screen are dynamic in nature, the image can be related to the object that the computer mouse represents. For example, if the mouse represents a face, the LCD display can adjust the facial expressions of the mouth or other portions of the face, for example. This movement may even be interconnected with the movement of the device or the activation of the buttons. A worker skilled in the art would readily understand the types of controllers that are required and the electrical power supply that would have to be integrated into the mouse in order to provide this type of functionality.
In one embodiment of the invention, the housing can additionally comprise a switching device which provides a means for controlling the flow of energy from a local energy source, for example a battery, located within the housing. In this manner, energy conservation can be provided, in addition to the termination of the functionality of the additional features if desired.
The computer mouse according to the present invention can addition comprise a scroll wheel which is typically integrated into a common mouse and having a similar functionality. In one embodiment of the invention, the scroll wheel is embodied within the housing and positioned between the two elongated buttons. In another embodiment, the scroll wlheel can extend beyond the perimeter of the housing and additionally be a larger size. In this manner the scroll wheel can be more easily manipulated and identified by an operator, for example.
The signal from the computer mouse of the present invention may be transmitted from the mouse to the computer electronics by a hard wire connection or other transmission means which use optical outputs, such as focused UV, visible or IR light beams, or radio frequency transmission such as FM or microwave, BluetoothTM or other wireless transmission protocols like IEEE 802.11, or other suitable methods of transmitting information over distances without a hard cable linkage. A worker skilled in the art would readily understand how to design this type of functionality into the present invention.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the computer mouse is conf gored as illustrated in Figures I to 3, wherein this embodiment is illustrated in a number of different views. The housing 10, has enclosed in it the X-Y generator 50 and at the top of the housing 10 is situated the pair of elongated buttons 20. The interconnection cable 30 provides a means for transmitting the signals provided by the elongated buttons and the X-Y
generator to the computer system to which the mouse is connected. This embodiment of the invention, further comprises a scroll wheel 40 as is typically provided on current versions of a computer mouse.
While the above defines the configuration of the computer mouse according to the present invention with the integration of elongated buttons, for use by children. It may equally be 1 S useful for use by people with a physical or mental handicap. In this example, the housing can be sized as a normal mouse and the elongated buttons form a button activation region which is easier to distinguish visually and physically activate as compared to a normal mouse type configuration.
The embodiments of the invention being thus described, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.
Claims (2)
1. A computer mouse comprising:
a) a housing having a front region and a perimeter;
b) an X-Y generator operatively connected to said housing for providing information relating to the movement of the housing by an operator; and c) first and second buttons positioned in the front region of the housing for initiating responses from a computer system, said buttons being elongated members that extend beyond the perimeter of the housing, thereby providing for ease of identification and operation of said buttons by an operator;
wherein the computer mouse is operatively connected to said computer system.
a) a housing having a front region and a perimeter;
b) an X-Y generator operatively connected to said housing for providing information relating to the movement of the housing by an operator; and c) first and second buttons positioned in the front region of the housing for initiating responses from a computer system, said buttons being elongated members that extend beyond the perimeter of the housing, thereby providing for ease of identification and operation of said buttons by an operator;
wherein the computer mouse is operatively connected to said computer system.
2. A computer mouse adapted for use by children, said computer mouse comprising:
a) a housing having a front region and a perimeter, said housing being an ergonomical design for use by children;
b) an X-Y generator operatively connected to said housing for providing information relating to the movement of the housing by an operator; and c) first and second buttons positioned in the front region of the housing for initiating responses from a computer system, said buttons being elongated members that extend beyond the perimeter of the housing thereby providing for ease of identification and operation of said buttons by an operator;
wherein the computer mouse is operatively connected to said computer system.
a) a housing having a front region and a perimeter, said housing being an ergonomical design for use by children;
b) an X-Y generator operatively connected to said housing for providing information relating to the movement of the housing by an operator; and c) first and second buttons positioned in the front region of the housing for initiating responses from a computer system, said buttons being elongated members that extend beyond the perimeter of the housing thereby providing for ease of identification and operation of said buttons by an operator;
wherein the computer mouse is operatively connected to said computer system.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002428947A CA2428947A1 (en) | 2003-05-14 | 2003-05-14 | Computer mouse |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002428947A CA2428947A1 (en) | 2003-05-14 | 2003-05-14 | Computer mouse |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2428947A1 true CA2428947A1 (en) | 2004-11-14 |
Family
ID=33437993
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002428947A Abandoned CA2428947A1 (en) | 2003-05-14 | 2003-05-14 | Computer mouse |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2428947A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2011159253A3 (en) * | 2010-06-15 | 2012-04-26 | Razer (Asia-Pacifi) Pte Ltd | A module for controlling a force required to actuate an electromechanical actuator |
-
2003
- 2003-05-14 CA CA002428947A patent/CA2428947A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2011159253A3 (en) * | 2010-06-15 | 2012-04-26 | Razer (Asia-Pacifi) Pte Ltd | A module for controlling a force required to actuate an electromechanical actuator |
| CN103119539A (en) * | 2010-06-15 | 2013-05-22 | 雷蛇(亚太)私人有限公司 | A module for controlling a force required to actuate an electromechanical actuator |
| US9128508B2 (en) | 2010-06-15 | 2015-09-08 | Razer (Asia-Pacific) Pte Ltd. | Module for controlling a force required to actuate an electromechanical actuator |
| CN103119539B (en) * | 2010-06-15 | 2016-09-28 | 雷蛇(亚太)私人有限公司 | A kind of power control module of the power for controlling needed for actuator motor-driven cylinder |
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