Ergonomic mouse device with multi-programmable buttons
AssigneeRazer (Asia-Pacific) Pte. Ltd.
InventorChern Ann NG
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Pointing devices such as computer mouse are commonly used for making selections on computer screens. However, prolong or frequent use of such pointing devices might result in users suffering from repetitive stress disorder. Further, due to the widespread use of personal computers (PC), this problem is made more even pronounced. In addition, users increasingly require additional buttons to be provided on the computer mouse for purposes such as PC gaming. Although device manufacturers have started building more buttons on existing computer mice, the buttons are typically not ergonomically positioned. An embodiment of the invention describes an ergonomic input device with multi-programmable buttons.
Claims20
An input device for communicating with a processor-based device, the input device comprising:
- a circuitry;
- a first displacement transducer coupled to the circuitry for transducing detected displacement into displacement signals, the circuitry for communicating the displacement signals to the processor-based device for manipulating an object on the processor-based device;
- a body for housing the circuitry and the first displacement transducer, the body having a base for being supported on a surface when in use and a support surface outwardly opposing the base, at least a portion of the support surface for supporting the mid-palm of the user when in use, the body having a depressible key formed on the support surface;
- and
- an actuator module comprising a plurality of actuators formed on the support surface of the body and positioned along the periphery of the depressible key, the plurality of actuators being coupled to the circuitry,
- wherein the plurality of actuators is configured to generate actuating signals communicable to the processor-based device by the circuitry for operating a shortcut function on the processor-based device;
- the shortcut function corresponding to a unique code stored on the processor-based device.
A method comprising:
- assigning shortcut functions to an actuating module of an input device for communicating with a processor-based device;
- and
- storing a unique code corresponding to the short cut function on the processor-based device.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.