Patent ID: 6130424
Filing Date: 2000-10-10
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A fiber optic control device comprising, in combination:a) a joy stick,b) a housing,c) means mounting the joy stick for universal pivotal movement on the housing from an upright axis thereof,d) a mirror,e) means movably mounting the mirror on the housing,f) a mechanical driving connection between the joy stick and the mirror, for actuating the mirror in response to movement of the joy stick,g) cooperable movement-limiting means on said joy stick and housing, enabling said universal pivotal movement of the joy stick to be had while preventing its rotative movement about the longitudinal axis thereof, andh) fiber-optic light transmission means cooperable with the mirror and including a source of light adapted to direct a light beam against portions of said mirror, for providing output light signals which are a function of the virtual angular position of said joy stick.