Patent ID: 6061004
Filing Date: 2000-05-09
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A method for providing an indexing feature in a force feedback interface device coupled to a host computer system displaying a graphical environment, said method comprising:sensing a position of a user-manipulated physical object in a planar workspace, wherein said position is relayed to said host computer system, said host computer system displaying a user-controlled graphical object on a display screen at a position derived from said position of said user-manipulated physical object in said planar workspace;applying forces from at least one actuator of said force feedback interface device to said physical object;receiving an indexing indication from said user that an indexing mode is active, wherein said user-controlled graphical object is displayed at a fixed position on said display screen by said host computer, regardless of said position of said physical object, while said indexing mode is active; andceasing said application of said forces to said physical object while said indexing mode is active;whereby said user is able to redefine an offset between said position of said physical object and said position of said user-controlled graphical object when said indexing mode is active.