Ergonomic apparatus for controlling video or computer equipment

Abstract

An apparatus is provided for ergonomically controlling video or computer functions or the like. A vertical control stick provides means for producing and transmitting signals to a computer. A first signal means is interconnected with the control stick such that movement of the stick forward from a neutral stick position causes a first set of signals to be transmitted to a computer. Similarly, a second signal means is interconnected with the stick such that movement of the control stick rearward from the neutral stick position causes a second set of signals to be transmitted to a computer. A rotatable collar is annularly disposed on the outer surface of the stick such that the collar may be manually rotated about the longitudinal axis of the stick in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions from a neutral collar position. Clockwise rotation of the collar away from the neutral collar position causes a third set of signals to be transmitted to a computer. Similarly, counterclockwise rotation of the collar away from the neutral collar position causes a fourth set of signals to be transmitted to a computer. A console is mounted on an upper end of the control stick. The console has a control panel with one or more controls for controlling video or computer functions. The controls are configured for finger actuation so that a single hand can provide manual control of the stick, the collar, and the control panel. Status indicators are further included on the console to provide status of video or computer functions.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.