Patent ID: 6469692
Filing Date: 2002-10-22
Classification: A63F,G06F,H04L

Abstract:
A force feedback interface device in communication with a host computer implementing a host application program, said interface device physically contacted by a user, the interface device comprising:a sensor device operative to detect movement of said interface device, or a manipulandum thereof, and to output sensor signals representative of said movement; a button coupled to said housing of said interface device and having a degree of freedom and including a sensor for detecting a position of said button, such that when said button is pressed by said user to a predetermined position, a command signal is sent to said host computer; a processor-controlled actuator coupled to said button, said actuator operative to apply an output spring force in said degree of freedom of said button; and a processor local to said force feedback interface device and separate from said host computer and coupled to said sensor device and to said actuator, said processor receiving a command from said host computer that causes said processor to control said actuator to create said spring force in said degree of freedom of said button, said spring force having a magnitude specified by said command.