Patent ID: 8614667

Claim:
An apparatus for generating a data signal, the apparatus comprising: a housing; a first controller moveably coupled to the housing; a plurality of impressions formed in a lower surface of the first controller with each individual impression of the plurality of impressions defining a distinct direction the first controller may be moved linearly or laterally from a center resting location; a first spring-loaded plunger; a ball bearing affixed to an upper end of the first spring-loaded plunger so that the ball bearing engages the plurality of impressions formed in the lower surface of the first controller for guiding the first controller along a linear or lateral direction from a center resting position; means for sensing linear or lateral movement of the first controller in the distinct direction as determined by one impression of the plurality of impressions and generating a signal indicative of a direction of movement of the first controller; and a processing module configured to generate the data signal in response to receipt of the signal indicative of a direction of movement of the first controller.