Patent ID: 7012594
Filing Date: 2006-03-14
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
1. A Z-axis device for an input device, comprising: a rotatable roller having a first side and a second side, the second side of the roller having a plurality of grooves provided along the second side; a first support and a second support spaced apart from the first support, the second support having a groove; a first axle extending from the first side of the roller and supported by the first support; and a second axle extending from the second side of the roller and being received in the groove of the second support in a manner that allows the second axle to reciprocate therein, the second axle having a sheath and a resilient arm extending from the sheath, the sheath having a fixing element that is retained in the groove, and which is configured, to prevent rotation of the sheath within the groove of the second support; and wherein the resilient arm constantly engages one of the grooves of the roller, and engages different grooves of the roller as the roller is rotated wherein the resilient arm damps the rotation of the roller so as to provide a rachet tactile feedback to a user.