Patent ID: 6611252
Filing Date: 2003-08-26
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A virtual data input device optically interfacing with an operator to detect the positions of a plurality of objects within an input zone to allow the operator to enter data into associated electronic equipment, wherein each of the positions of the plurality of objects within the input zone corresponds to a unique selection of data to be entered into the electronic equipment, the input device comprising;a source of optical sensor light illuminating the input zone with sensor light, the sensor light reflecting off the plurality of objects in a direction generally toward the input device; an optical detector arranged to receive the reflected sensor light as a reflected light pattern representing the positions of the plurality of objects within the input zone, the optical detector converting the reflected light pattern to an electrical signal representing the positions of the plurality of objects within the input zone; and a microprocessor that receives the electrical signal from the optical detector and is programmed to correlate the electrical signal to the unique selection of data based on the positions of the plurality of objects within the input zone.