Optical machine input interface
OwnerYong Yaninventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
An optical input apparatus includes a light source of a directional light beam and a receiving module. The receiving module contains a collection of photodetectors through which information can be input into a system by pointing the light beam at various photodetectors. The photodetectors can be so arranged that all the functionalities of the standard computer keyboard and mouse can be performed by this apparatus. Such an input interface reduces greatly the factors that may cause repetitive strain injuries and can be used by people having difficulties operating a keyboard and mouse. The most preferred embodiments are for computer mouse and keyboard. Other hand operating devices, such as Personal Digital Assistants and remote controls can all make use of the advantages offered by this apparatus.
Claims12
A method for entering information to a utilization device, comprising:
- (a) providing a directional light beam,
- (b) providing a receiver which comprises a collection of photodetectors,
- (c) providing a means for generating a corresponding signal upon incident of said light beam on a said photodetector,
- (d) providing a means for directing said light beam selectively at said photodetectors to generate said signals in desired sequence,
- (e) providing a means for processing the signals from said photodetectors and transmit the result to said utilization device,
- whereby desired information can be generated and entered into said utilization device.
An apparatus for entering information into a utilization device, comprising:
- (a). a light source which generates a directional light beam,
- (b). an optical receiver which comprises a collection of photodetectors each of which is associated with a circuit that can generate a signal upon impact of said light beam,
- (c). a circuit that collects and processes said signals and transmit the result to said utilization device,
- (d). a means for directing said light beam at specific selective photodetectors.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.