Patent ID: 6031521
Filing Date: 2000-02-29
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
Method of controlling the operation of a computer from a pointer with the computer having a pointer index (cursor) responsive to the movement of the pointer, which comprises the following steps:A--choosing one of two modes of operation for said pointer inclusive of, the R/M (REGISTER/MEMORY) mode and the A/P (ACTIVE/PLAY) mode;B--when the pointer is in the R/M mode: (I) selecting at least one operation unit, and moving the pointer to bring the pointer index to a reference position corresponding to the selected operation unit; and (ii) counting the pointer index coordinate displacements relative to said reference position and a first, selected base point and storing in memory the counted displacements as differential coordinate displacements; andC--when the pointer is in the A/P mode: (I) selecting an operation unit from one previously selected in the R/M mode; (ii) determining the corresponding counter coordinates of the reference position by applying the differential coordinate displacements, with the appropriate sign, to the counter coordinates of a second base point; and (iii) carrying out the operation unit corresponding to said reference counter coordinates.