Patent ID: 6587094
Filing Date: 2003-07-01
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A two-sided input device useful for operating corresponding applications on a computer-related apparatus, the device comprising:a generally planar module having first and second opposite planar surfaces defined therein; first and second sets of input controls movably mounted on and extending outwardly from the first and second surfaces, respectively; means for positioning a selected one of the sets of input controls in a more user-accessible position and the other of the sets in a less user-accessible position, wherein each of the sets of input controls has a sufficient number of the input controls to operate one of the corresponding applications on the computer-related apparatus; means for electrically connecting the selected one of the sets to the computer-related apparatus, whereby movements of the selected set of input controls are transmitted to the computer-related apparatus; electronic means operatively connected to the first and second sets of input controls for detecting movements of the input controls, whereby movements of the input controls are transmitted to the computer-related apparatus; a base with portions defining a cavity therein, the cavity bounded by outwardly oriented edges, wherein the module is removably received in the cavity and supported by the outwardly oriented edges, one of the sets of input controls being received in the cavity and thereby hidden in the base; and means for removably attaching the module to said base.