Patent ID: 6614420
Filing Date: 2003-09-02
Classification: A63F,G06F

Abstract:
An electronic input device comprising:a first handle; a second handle movably coupled to the first handle, wherein the first handle is pivotal relative to the second handle about a first axis of rotation through a first range of motion comprising a plurality of zones, a first zone being located in a generally centrally located region of the first range of motion, and wherein the first handle is pivotal relative to the second handle about a second axis of rotation through a second range of motion including a plurality of zones; a sensor operably coupled to the first and second handles and configured to provide a position signal indicative of a position of the first and second handles relative to one another; a first linkage portion coupled to at least one of the first and second handles, wherein the first linkage portion includes a first resistance mechanism configured to provide a first resistance to movement as the handle moves through a first zone located in a generally centrally located region of the range of motion, a second resistance mechanism configured to provide a second resistance to movement as the handle moves through a second zone, and a first shaft rigidly coupled to one of the first handle and the second handle and rotatably coupled to the other of the first handle and the second handle, the first shaft defining the first axis of rotation; a second linkage portion coupled to at least one of the first and second handles and providing a tactile feedback as the first handle transitions from a first of the plurality of zones to a second of the plurality of zones in the second range of motion, wherein the second linkage portion comprises a second shaft rigidly coupled to another one of the first and second handles and rotatably coupled to the other of the first and second handles and defining the second axis of rotation; and a controller coupled to the sensor and configured to provide a computer input indicative of the position based on the position signal.