U.S. patent application number 11/467705 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-21 for rechargeable cordless input and pointing device.
This patent application is currently assigned to DRB INSTITUTE LLC. Invention is credited to Alexander I. Poltorak.
Application Number | 20060284842 11/467705 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33097535 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060284842 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Poltorak; Alexander I. |
December 21, 2006 |
Rechargeable Cordless Input and Pointing Device
Abstract
A human interface device (HID), comprising A human activity
detector, a wireless communication link for communicating a signal
corresponding to at least one human activity to a receiver, and a
wireless powering device for supplying power to power at least the
wireless communication device. The wireless powering device may be
an inductive coil to scavenge magnetic field energy, an
electromechanical energy converter, a fuel cell, or the like.
Inventors: |
Poltorak; Alexander I.;
(Monsey, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MILDE & HOFFBERG, LLP
10 BANK STREET
SUITE 460
WHITE PLAINS
NY
10606
US
|
Assignee: |
DRB INSTITUTE LLC
2711 Centerville Road Suite 400
Wilmington
DE
|
Family ID: |
33097535 |
Appl. No.: |
11/467705 |
Filed: |
August 28, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10407402 |
Apr 4, 2003 |
|
|
|
11467705 |
Aug 28, 2006 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
345/157 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 3/03543 20130101;
G06F 3/0395 20130101; G06F 3/033 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
345/157 |
International
Class: |
G09G 5/08 20060101
G09G005/08 |
Claims
1. A human interface device (HID), comprising: (a) a human activity
detector; (b) a wireless communication link for communicating a
signal corresponding to at least one human activity to a receiver;
and (c) a wireless powering device for supplying power to power at
least the wireless communication device.
2. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the powering device
comprises a photocell and a fuel cell.
3. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the powering device
comprises a flywheel and a generator.
4. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the powering device
comprises an inductive coil adapted for converting varying magnetic
fields into electric current.
5. The HID according to claim 1, further comprising an activity
detector, wherein the HID has a low power consumption state wherein
the wireless communication link is in a low power mode and a high
power consumption state wherein the wireless communication link is
in a high power mode, the power consumption state of the HID being
dependent on a signal received from the activity detector.
6. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the human activity
detector comprises a position detector.
7. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the human activity
detector comprises a motion detector.
8. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the human activity
detector comprises a detector for the state of a switch.
9. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the human activity
detector comprises a timer.
10. The HID according to claim 9, wherein an expiration of the
timer leads to a reduction in power consumption of the HID.
11. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the wireless
communication link is bidirectional, adapted for receiving
information.
12. The HID according to claim 11, wherein the HID receives at
least one command through the wireless communication link.
13. The HID according to claim 12, wherein the at least one command
comprises a request for a status of the HID.
14. The HID according to claim 11, wherein the information
comprises a set of parameters for operation of the activity
detector.
15. The HID according to claim 11, wherein the information
comprises a set of parameters for operation of the power generating
device.
16. The HID according to claim 1, further comprising a
microcontroller.
17. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the wireless
communication link comprises a radio frequency transmitter and an
antenna, further comprising a microcontroller, the microcontroller
and the radio frequency transmitter being integrated.
18. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the wireless
communication link comprises a modulated magnetic field
communication device and an inductive antenna.
19. The HID according to claim 18, further comprising a
microcontroller, wherein the magnetic field communication device
and the microcontroller are integrated.
20. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the HID comprises a
computer mouse, further comprising a mouse pad, wherein the mouse
pad is electrically connected to a computer, the mouse pad
comprising an inductive coil for transferring power to the powering
device.
21. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the HID comprises a
computer mouse, further comprising a mouse pad, wherein the mouse
pad is electrically connected to a source of line power, the mouse
pad comprising an inductive coil for transferring power to the
powering device.
22. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the HID comprises a
computer mouse, further comprising a mouse pad, the mouse pad
comprising an oscillator and an inductive coil producing magnetic
waves derived from the oscillator, for transferring power to the
powering device.
23. The HID according to claim 1, further comprising a mouse pad
having a set of spatially varying permanent magnetic fields,
wherein the powering device comprises an inductive coil for
receiving power derived from a movement of the inductive coil with
respect to the permanent magnetic fields.
24. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the powering device
comprises a self-winding mechanism, a kinetic energy converter, and
a generator.
25. The HID according to claim 1, wherein the powering device
comprises an inertial mass and a spring.
26. The HID according to claim 1, further comprising a timer,
wherein the HID has three power consumption states, a first state,
wherein the HID is fully operational to detect user activity, a
second state wherein the HID enters a sleep mode, and a third state
wherein the HID is shut down, the power consumption state being
dependent on a timer and a user activity.
27. A method for operating a human interface device (HID),
comprising: (a) detecting a human activity; (b) wirelessly
communicating a signal corresponding to at least human activity to
a receiver; and (c) wirelessly supplying power to power at least
the wirelessly communication.
28. The method according to claim 27, wherein said wirelessly
supplying power comprises providing a power supply device,
comprising a photocell and a fuel cell.
29. The method according to claim 27, wherein said wirelessly
supplying power comprises providing a power supply device,
comprising a flywheel and a generator.
30. The method according to claim 27, wherein said wirelessly
supplying power comprises providing a power supply device,
comprising an inductive coil adapted for converting varying
magnetic fields into electric current.
31. The method according to claim 27, further comprising detecting
an initiation activity, the initiating activity causing the HID to
transition from a low power consumption state wherein the
wirelessly communicating is inactive and a high power consumption
state wherein the wirelessly communicating is active in a high
power mode.
32. The method according to claim 27, further comprising timing a
period after a most recent initiation activity, and entering a low
power state after expiration of a timing period.
33. The method according to claim 27, wherein the wirelessly
communicating is bidirectional, further comprising the steps of
transmitting a signal representing a human activity and receiving
information from a remote system.
34. The method according to claim 33, wherein the information
comprises a request for transmission of a status of the HID.
35. The method according to claim 33, wherein the information
comprises a set of parameters for operation of the activity
detector.
36. The method according to claim 33, wherein the information
comprises a set of parameters for operation of the power generating
device.
37. The method according to claim 27, wherein the wirelessly
supplying power step comprises moving a magnetic mass linked to a
spring with respect to an inductive coil.
38. The method according to claim 27, wherein the HID has three
power consumption states, a first state, wherein the HID is fully
operational to detect user activity, a second state wherein the HID
enters a sleep mode, and a third state wherein the HID is shut
down, the power consumption state being dependent on time lapse
since a prior user activity.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/407,402, filed Apr. 4, 2003, which is
expressly incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to input and
pointing devices for data processing systems, and, more
particularly, to cordless input and pointing devices such as mice,
trackballs, computer pens, joysticks, and keyboards.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] With the advent of the information revolution, computers
have found their way to most desks, be it in the office or at home.
For the better part of the last two decades, most programs run by
computers have been employing graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for
inputting a substantial part of user-generated data and controls
into the computers. Graphical user interfaces rely heavily on
pointing devices--such as mice, trackballs, and touch pads--for
most functions. For example, a computer operator can move a cursor
on a computer display by manipulating the pointing device.
Manipulation of the pointing device depends on the nature of the
device. In case of a mouse, manipulation means sliding the mouse
across a surface, such as a mouse pad. When the pointing device is
a trackball, manipulation means rotating its ball in different
directions. Finger-actuated buttons (switches) are typically
provided on a pointing device for" clicking," i.e., for selecting
particular areas of the display, to cause the computer to perform
the functions associated with the icons displayed in these
areas.
[0004] A pointing device may be built into its host computer. More
commonly, a pointing device is a device that is physically separate
from its host computer. In the latter case, various methods can be
employed to connect the pointing device to the computer through a
cable. For example, the pointing device may plug into a standard RS
232 serial port of the computer through a serial cable. In another
example, the pointing device may plug into a standard Universal
Serial Bus (USB) port of the computer through a USB cable.
Alternatively, the pointing device may plug into a proprietary
interface port of the computer through a compatible proprietary
cable. The cable connecting the pointing device to the host
computer generally serves two purposes. First, it provides a link
for the flow of data describing movements (manipulations) of the
pointing device to the host computer. Second, the cable carries the
electrical power necessary for the operation of the pointing
device.
[0005] Cable connections between pointing devices and their
corresponding host computers have a number of disadvantages. They
add to the tangled webs of cables underneath a typical computer
user's desk. They also limit the distance between a pointing device
and a computer. And, of course, the extra cable on the desk adds to
the clutter. Moreover, a cable used in one computer setup might not
fit another setup. For example, a cable used to connect a mouse to
a laptop (or notebook) computer--generally about two feet (61 cm)
in length--will likely be too short for a desktop computer
application. Thus, a computer user may need multiple pointing
devices.
[0006] A cordless mouse obviates the inconveniences of the corded
mouse: there is no need for a cord of any length, because a
cordless mouse connects to the computer through a wireless link.
The wireless link can be, for example, a radio frequency (RF) link,
an optical link, an infrared link, or even an ultrasound link.
Whatever the nature of this link, it enables a one- or two-way flow
of data between the host computer and the mouse.
[0007] Recall, however, that the mouse cable serves two functions:
(1) enabling the flow of data, and (2) supplying electrical power
to the mouse. The wireless link can readily enable the flow of
data, thereby fulfilling the first function, but it is not at all
apparent how the wireless link can practically supply the
electrical power to the mouse.
[0008] The common solution in the art of wireless pointing devices
is to provide a primary or secondary (rechargeable) cell within the
wireless mouse to furnish the electrical power needed to operate
the mouse. Thus, both functions formerly performed by a connecting
cable are fulfilled in a wireless mouse. Unfortunately, this
solution is not without its own deficiencies.
[0009] Of the two kinds of cells, that is primary and rechargeable,
the latter appears to be a more economical and popular choice for
cordless mice. In one implementation marketed under the name of
GyroMouse, a cordless mouse can be used with a mouse pad, or it may
be held in hand and used as a pointing device. The mouse uses
rechargeable batteries, and needs to be placed in a special
charging cradle for recharging.
[0010] With users who purchased a wireless rechargeable mouse with
a charging cradle, forgetting to place the mouse in the cradle when
leaving the office in the evening becomes a frequent event. When
left outside the charging cradle, the mouse completely discharges
overnight. Thus, the following morning the mouse has to be
recharged before it can be used. Because placing the mouse in the
charging cradle renders it inoperable as a pointing device, the
mouse is useless while being recharged. Therefore, recharging,
which typically takes several hours, renders the mouse useless
during a significant portion of the following day. This nuisance
leads many users to discontinue the use of the cordless mouse.
[0011] The charging problem disappears in the case of a mouse
powered by primary cells, or by removable secondary cells. The
frequent effort and expense necessitated by the need to replace the
cells, however, do not make the use of replaceable cells a viable
solution for many people.
[0012] Several attempts have been made to improve on the state of
the art of wireless mice. For example, electrical power for a
wireless mouse can be generated from the rotational motion of the
ball of the mouse when the mouse slides across a surface.
[0013] In accordance with another attempt to improve on the art, an
RF transmitter and a primary antenna are built into a mouse pad.
The wireless mouse includes a secondary antenna for receiving the
RF energy radiated by the primary antenna of the mouse pad. The RF
energy thus received is converted into electrical energy for
operating the wireless mouse. The host computer supplies the energy
for the RF transmitter of the mouse pad.
[0014] Information relevant to attempts to improve on the art of
wireless mice can also be found in U.S. Patent Application No.
20020118173; in Japanese Patent Application No. JP 10283079; and in
U.S. Pat. No. 6,445,379, issued to Liu et al. Although detailed
analyses of the attempts described above are beyond the scope of
the present document, each suffers from one or more of the
following disadvantages: [0013] Where the electrical energy for the
operation of a mouse is derived from the mechanical movement of the
mouse, it appears that excessive physical effort would be required
to move the mouse in order to generate sufficient electrical power.
Among other disadvantages, this approach is not at all applicable
to optical devices, which are rapidly replacing the old ball-based
mouse in popularity, and which have no ball to drive the generator
that charges the battery.
[0015] As regards the method for coupling RF energy from a mouse
pad to a wireless mouse, two speculative observations can be made.
First, the efficiency of this method is quite low, because only a
small portion of the radiated RF energy will be captured and used
by the wireless mouse. Thus, the power drain from the host computer
would be relatively high. Second, the deliberate radiation of RF
energy might create unacceptable electromagnetic interference and,
perhaps, alarm some health-conscious consumers.
[0016] A need thus exists for a pointing device with reduced power
consumption characteristics during periods of nonuse. A further
need exists for a pointing device that self-charges during the
periods of its use as well as the periods of nonuse. Still another
need exists for a pointing device that can be operated while being
charged, or that can be operated without the need for a charged
cell, and that overcomes the shortcomings of existing
technologies.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The present invention is directed to apparatus that
satisfies these needs. The invention herein disclosed is a pointing
device, such as a computer mouse, a trackball, a computer pen, or a
joystick. The mouse has a movement detector for generating signals
in response to the manipulations of the pointing device, e.g.,
movements of a mouse or rotation of a trackball, and a controller
that receives the signals from the movement detector and prepares
the signals for transmission to a host computer. The computer can
respond, for example, by moving its cursor in accordance with the
movements of the mouse. The controller hands over the signals to a
wireless transmitter, for example, an RF or an infrared
transmitter. The pointing device can also have a switching block
with one or more switches operated by buttons. The controller is
connected to the switching block to sense the state of the
switches, and generates clicking signals corresponding to the
changes in the states of the switches. The controller then hands
the clicking signals to the transmitter. The transmitter sends the
signals prepared by the controller from the signals generated by
the movement detector and the clicking signals to the host computer
through the mouse's antenna or an optical transmitter.
[0018] A primary, rechargeable, or fuel energy cell powers the
mouse. In addition, power for the operation of the mouse can be
self-generated. One technique for self-generating the power is by
using a photovoltaic element disposed either on the outer shell of
the mouse, or under the shell. In the latter case, the shell is
transparent so that the photovoltaic element can generate
electrical energy.
[0019] Another technique for self-generating the power is by
converting the mechanical (kinetic) energy of motion into electric
power. In this embodiment, the flying wheel (similar to one used in
automatic self-winding watches) is connected to a generator that
converts kinetic energy into electrical power used to recharge the
cell in the pointing device.
[0020] Another technique for self-generating the power is by
inducing a variable magnetic field by driving a primary coil in the
mouse's pad. The primary coil can be driven by an AC source
external to the pad, or the pad can include an oscillator and a
driver for generating the AC driving current from a DC source. The
mouse includes a secondary coil inductively coupled to the primary
coil, so that the time-varying magnetic field generated by the
primary coil induces an AC potential at the terminals of the
secondary coil. The AC potential of the secondary coil is
rectified, filtered, and regulated to provide a source of
self-generated power for the mouse.
[0021] In some embodiments, the cell is a secondary cell recharged
by the self-generated power. A power controller handles the task of
charging the cell. In addition, the power controller handles the
tasks of receiving the self-generated power and the power available
from the cell, and distributing the power to the active components
of the mouse. The active components can include, for example, the
controller, the transmitter, and the movement detector.
[0022] Moreover, some embodiments of the pointing device can be put
into an OFF or a low power state. Here, a particular pointing
devices includes an activity detector for determining when the
pointing device is being used, for example, touched or moved, and a
state controller for causing the mouse to enter into active and low
power (or OFF) states. When the pointing device is not used for a
predetermined period of time, the state controller's timer expires,
and the state controller causes the pointing device to become
inactive (turn itself OFF) or enter into a low power state. When
the activity detector senses that the mouse is being used, it
causes the pointing device to enter into the active state, and
restarts the timer. Each indication of activity restarts the
timer.
[0023] These and other features and aspects of the present
invention will be better understood with reference to the following
description and appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a wireless mouse with a
photovoltaic cell, in accordance with the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 2 is a simplified schematic diagram of a wireless mouse
with a photovoltaic cell, in accordance with the present
invention;
[0026] FIG. 3 illustrates a mouse pad capable of inductively
powering a mouse, in accordance with the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a mouse with an inductively
coupled power source, in accordance with the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 5 is a simplified schematic diagram of the mouse of
FIG. 4;
[0029] FIG. 6 is a simplified schematic diagram of the mouse pad of
FIG. 3;
[0030] FIG. 7 illustrates a mouse pad with embedded permanent
magnets for inducing electrical energy in a mouse in accordance
with the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 8 is a simplified schematic diagram of a mouse with a
kinetic energy converter, in accordance with the present
invention;
[0032] FIG. 9 is a simplified schematic diagram of a mouse with an
energy conservation mode capability, in accordance with the present
invention;
[0033] FIG. 10 illustrates portions of a activity detector for
indicating movements of a mouse in accordance with the present
invention;
[0034] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a mouse with a
microswitch-based activity detector, in accordance with the present
invention; and
[0035] FIG. 12 is a simplified schematic diagram of a mouse with a
photovoltaic element, an activity detector, and a state control
mechanism, in accordance with the present invention.
BEST MODE
[0036] Reference will now be made in detail to several embodiments
of the invention that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in
the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like
parts. The drawings are in simplified form and are not to precise
scale. For purposes of convenience and clarity only, directional
terms, such as, top, bottom, left, right, up, down, over, above,
below, beneath, rear, and front, are used with respect to the
accompanying drawings. These and similar directional terms should
not be construed to limit the scope of the invention in any manner.
In addition, the words "wireless" and "cordless" are used
interchangeably, unless the difference is noted or made otherwise
clear from the context.
[0037] Referring more particularly to the drawings, FIGS. 1 and 2
illustrate a wireless mouse embodiment 100 in accordance with the
present invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the mouse 100,
and FIG. 2 is a simplified schematic diagram of the mouse 100.
Outer shell 110 of the mouse 100 includes openings to accommodate
activation buttons 120A, 120B, and 120C. In the illustrated
embodiment, a portion of the shell 110 is covered by one or more
photovoltaic elements 130 that generate electricity from the energy
of the light incident upon them. More generally, all or any part of
the surfaces of the shell 110 and of the buttons 120A, 120B, and
120C can be covered by the elements 130. Moreover, the elements 130
can be positioned under the shell 130, if the shell 130 is
transparent to some part of the electromagnetic spectrum from which
the elements 130 can generate electrical energy.
[0038] The major functional blocks of the mouse 100 appear in FIG.
2. Movement detector 140 detects movements of the mouse 100 and
converts the detected movements into electrical signals. Similarly,
the button switches assembly 150 detects actuations, i.e.,
clicking, of the buttons 120 and converts them into electrical
signals. Main controller 160 receives the signals generated by the
movement detector 140 and the button switches assembly 150, encodes
the received signals, and prepares them for transmission to the
host computer (not shown in the Figures). Then, the main controller
hands the encoded signals to the transmitter (or transceiver) block
170 for transmission through antenna 180.
[0039] The antenna 180 can be an RF antenna; it can also be any
other radiator for use with the transmitter 170. For example, the
antenna can be an optical, infrared or ultrasound radiator.
[0040] Power for the operation of the mouse 100 comes from power
control and charging circuit 190, cell 200, and photovoltaic
element 130. The cell 200 is the main energy storage component of
the mouse 100. It may be a rechargeable cell, recharged by the
circuit 190 from the electrical energy generated by the
photovoltaic element 130. A second, supplemental source of external
energy for recharging the cell 200 may also be built into the
mouse. This second source, which is not illustrated, can be a
charging cradle interface.
[0041] The cell 200 can also be a primary, non-rechargeable cell.
In this case, the electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic
element 130 serves to supply additional power to the mouse and
extend the life of the cell 200 by reducing the load thereon.
[0042] The circuit 190 controls the charging of the cell 200 and
the distribution of the electrical power to other functional blocks
of the mouse 100.
[0043] The photovoltaic element 130 is a device capable of
generating electricity from visible light, or from any other part
of the electromagnetic spectrum that is available for this purpose,
e.g., from infrared radiation.
[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the motion detector 140 is
implemented as an arrangement of a ball and orthogonal rollers,
with an encoding mechanism. The motion detector 140 can also be
selected from a broad array of other movement sensing technologies,
such as electrooptical or purely optical sensors, that are known to
a person skilled in the art of designing pointing devices.
[0045] The button switches assembly 150 holds miniature switches or
other pressure sensors.
[0046] The block 170 is a transmitter implementing the functions of
the wireless link that enables the mouse 100 to communicate with
the host computer. Optionally, the block 170 is a transceiver
providing a capability for bi-directional communications between
the mouse 100 and the host computer. The receiving function of the
block 170 can be used, for example, to enable the host computer to
direct the control block 160 and the circuit 190 to customize the
mouse operations (e.g., change the sensitivity to movement, change
the velocity of a cursor or rewire the buttons 120 for right- or
left-handed operator), to initiate self-testing, to perform cell
maintenance (deep discharge) procedures, or to report the status of
the cell 200 to the host computer. The block 170 can be
implemented, for example, as an RF, optical, infrared, or
ultrasound transmitter or transceiver.
[0047] In the mouse 100, the main controller 160 is a state
machine, however implemented. In one embodiment, the main
controller 160 is a low-power CMOS microcontroller under program
control.
[0048] Note that the delineations between functional blocks shown
in FIG. 2 (and in other block diagrams of this document) are there
for convenience and ease of description only. In many possible
implementations of the pointing devices described herein, the
distinctions between the blocks blur, and several blocks can be
built on the same hardware platform. For example, the
microcontroller of the main controller 160 can be used to perform
many or all of the functions of the power controller and charging
circuit 190. As another example, the hardware functions of the main
controller 160 and the transmitter block 170 can be combined on the
same integrated circuit. Also note that some blocks can represent
or include software processes.
[0049] Another embodiment of a pointing device in accordance with
the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 3 through 6. FIG. 3
illustrates a mouse 300 in perspective, with cutouts to show
portions of internal structure; FIG. 4 shows in perspective a
special mouse pad 400 for powering the mouse 300; FIGS. 5 and 6 are
simplified schematic diagrams of the mouse 300 and the pad 400. In
this embodiment, the electrical power for operation of the mouse
300 is inductively coupled into the mouse 300 from the mouse pad
400.
[0050] The mouse pad 400 has a base 410. A primary inductive coil
420 is embedded into the base 410. In this embodiment, the base 410
is made from a flexible material, with the top surface of the base
being adapted for sliding the mouse 300 thereon. The bottom surface
of the base 410 is more textured, so as to increase the friction
between the mouse pad 400 and the surface upon which the mouse pad
400 rests. A primary inductive coil 420 is molded into the base
410.
[0051] Direct current electrical power is coupled to the pad 400
through a connector 430 from a cord 450. The cord 450 may plug into
a power supply connector of the host computer (not illustrated), or
to an independent power supply (also not illustrated).
[0052] Electronic module 440 converts the received power to
alternating current and drives the primary inductive coil 420 with
the alternating current. The module 440 includes an oscillator
circuit 440A and a driver circuit 440B. These two circuits can be
readily combined into a single unit.
[0053] The precise frequency of the oscillator 440A is not
critical, because inductive coupling can take place over a very
broad range of frequencies. One consideration in choosing the
appropriate frequency is minimization of radiation loses.
Frequencies between about 30 Hz and about 100 kHz have been found
to work well for the instant purpose.
[0054] Alternating current can also be used to power the mouse pad
400. In this case, the module 400 can be either dispensed with
entirely, or it can be simplified. In one embodiment, a transformer
plugged into a conventional alternating current (AC) outlet powers
the mouse pad 400.
[0055] Turning now to the mouse 300, most of its functional blocks
are similar to the like-numbered blocks of the mouse 100 discussed
above. Here, however, the power controller and charging circuit 190
receives the electrical power from a secondary inductive coil 310
and power conditioner 320.
[0056] When the mouse 300 is placed on the pad 400, the low
frequency magnetic fields produced by the primary inductive coil
420 induce electromotive force in the secondary coil 310. The power
conditioner 320 rectifies, filters, and regulates the AC power at
the output terminals of the secondary coil 310, and sends the
conditioned direct current (DC) power to the circuit 190. In one
arrangement, the power conditioner 320 includes a 4-diode bridge
for rectifying the AC power of the coil 320, a T- or Pi-shaped
combination of capacitors and inductors for filtering the rectified
power, and an IC regulator for producing stable, regulated DC
power.
[0057] The remaining blocks of the mouse 300 function substantially
in the same way as in the mouse 100.
[0058] Note that the cell 200 need not be included within the
mouse, particularly where the secondary inductive coil 310 supplies
continuous power.
[0059] As is known in physics, electromotive force will be induced
in the coil 310 when the coil 310 is moved through a stationary
magnetic field. Thus, in yet another embodiment of a mouse-pad
combination in accordance with the present invention, the pad
contains embedded magnets, for example, magnetic strips, magnetic
wires, or otherwise shaped magnetic elements. FIG. 7 illustrates
such a pad 500 with magnetic strips 510. In the mouse pad 500, the
magnetic strips 510 are substantially parallel and evenly spaced.
Thus, movement of the mouse 300 over the pad 500 generates
electrical power for the operation of the mouse 300, even in the
absence of the primary inductive coil 420 and its driving
circuits.
[0060] In still another embodiment of a pointing device in
accordance with the present invention, electrical power is
generated from kinetic energy of the device's motion. In an
exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, a pointing device 550
has a generator 560 driven by a kinetic energy converter 570. The
kinetic energy converter can be a mechanism similar to those used
in self-winding watches.
[0061] For example, a self-winding mechanism can include a balance
weight connected to the generator's shaft, so that pivotal
movements of the balance weight rotate the shaft and cause the
generator to generate electrical energy. The connection of the
balance weight to the generator's shaft can be direct or indirect,
i.e., through couplings, rocker members, and/or gears. Thus,
acceleration of the pointing device having a component in a plane
defined by the generator's shaft causes rotation of the shaft and
generation of electrical energy for use in the pointing device. An
interested reader can find various examples of self-winding
mechanisms in U.S. Pat. No. 6,485,172 to Takahashi et al.; U.S.
Pat. No. 3,306,025 to Kocher et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 2,981,055 to
Froidevaux and Bandi; U.S. Pat. No. 2,867,971 to Bertsch et al.;
and U.S. Pat. No. 2,661,591 to Thiebaude.
[0062] The generator 560 and the kinetic energy converter 570 can
also be integrated in one mechanism. In one embodiment, a
magnet/balance weight is held inside or in proximity of a coil by
one or more springs, so that the magnet is moveable with respect to
the coil. The coil is attached to the body of the pointing device.
Thus, acceleration of the pointing device causes movement of the
magnet with respect to the coil, thereby generating a potential
difference at the coil's terminals. The terminals can be coupled to
a rectifier and a power conditioner.
[0063] In another aspect, a pointing device in accordance with the
present invention has the capability to put itself in an "OFF" or
sleep mode after the pointing device has not being used for some
predefined period of time. This technique conserves the energy of
the device's cell, and it may be employed either alone or in
conjunction with the self-powering features, such as those that
were discussed above, i.e., a photovoltaic element, inductive
coupling from the mouse pad, or a combination of a kinetic energy
converter and a generator. Of course, this power conservation
technique can also be employed in conjunction with other
self-powering schemes, including the generation of electric power
from the rotational motion of the ball of the pointing device, or
capture and conversion of the RF power transmitted by a mouse
pad.
[0064] FIG. 9 is a simplified schematic diagram of a cordless mouse
600 with an energy conservation mode capability. As can be seen
from FIG. 9, two blocks have been added. Numeral 610 designates an
activity detector; it produces a signal indicating that the mouse
is in use. In one embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 10, an activity
detector 610A is similar to the integrated generator/kinetic energy
converter described above. The activity detector 610A has a magnet
701 suspended moveably on a spring 702, within a fixed coil 703.
When the mouse 600 is accelerated, the inertia of the magnet causes
relative movement of the magnet 701 with respect to the coil 703,
thereby generating electromotive force and a potential difference
between terminals 704 of the coil 703. The potential difference
serves as the signal indicating that the mouse is in use. In
another embodiment, mouse 800 of FIG. 11, an activity detector 610B
is a microswitch with a spring-loaded push button protruding
slightly under the bottom of the mouse 800. The spring loading of
the push button is such that the switch is in a first state when
the mouse 600 alone rests on a pad; when additional weight is added
to the mouse 800, for example, by placing a hand upon it, the
switch changes its state. Empirical results indicate that spring
loading of about 0.2 to about 3 ounces should work well for many
people. In other words, the spring loading can be set so an
addition of a weight between about 0.2 and about 3 ounces triggers
the activity detector 61 OB.
[0065] Numeral 620 designates a state control mechanism that
receives the signal generated by the activity detector 610 and, in
turn, generates signals to the main controller 160 and, optionally,
to the circuit 190, causing the mouse 600 to activate. At the same
time, the state control mechanism 620 starts a preset internal
timer. After the internal timer expires, the state control
mechanism 620 either deactivates the mouse, i.e., turns it off, or
puts it in a low power consumption state. The timer is restarted
with receipt of each signal from the activity detector 610. Thus,
if the mouse is in continuous use, the timer never expires.
[0066] The inventor herein believes that the appropriate setting
for the timer is somewhere between about five seconds and about
thirty minutes. In use, the setting from about two to about ten
minutes provides a good compromise between cell energy conservation
and user convenience.
[0067] The timer can be a simple one-shot, such as the ubiquitous
555 IC. The timer can also be implemented as an oscillator-counter
combination. Other timer implementations will doubtless occur to
those skilled in the art of electronic design.
[0068] Several methods are known for putting an electronic device
into a low power consumption state. Initially, note that the power
to many components can be turned off completely. For example, in an
optical pointing device, the movement detector 140 is typically a
rather power-hungry element. Thus, it can be turned off when it is
not needed.
[0069] Additionally, the transmitter block 170 can also consume
substantial power, and turning it off during periods of inactivity
also makes sense. As regards the main controller 160, if it is
based on a microcontroller, it can be put in a sleep mode or state,
instead of being turned off. An interrupt generated by the state
control mechanism 620 would then awaken the main controller 160
when the signal from the activity detector 610 indicates resumption
of the mouse's use. Indeed, two timers are employed in one
embodiment of the state control mechanism 620: a first timer, with
a relatively short time constant, and a second timer, with a longer
time constant. The expiration of the first timer causes the
microcontroller to switch to a sleep mode; the expiration of the
second timer causes the mouse to be shut down completely. In
practice, the time constant of the second timer can be
advantageously set to be about three to about fifty times the value
of the time constant of the first timer.
[0070] As was briefly discussed above, the energy conservation
scheme of the mouse 600 can be combined with the internal power
generation schemes of, for example, the mice 100 or 300. FIG. 12 is
a simplified schematic diagram of a wireless mouse with the
photovoltaic element 130, the activity detector 610, and the state
control mechanism 620.
[0071] All of the constituent blocks shown in FIG. 12 have been
discussed above.
[0072] It should be noted, however, that part or all of the power
control and charging circuit 190 now stays on during periods of
inactivity, to allow the current generated by the photovoltaic
element 130 to recharge the cell 200 during such periods.
[0073] This document describes the inventive input and pointing
devices and some of their features in considerable detail for
illustration purposes only. Neither the specific embodiments of the
invention as a whole, nor those of its features limit the general
principles underlying the invention. In particular, the invention
is not limited to mice, but includes trackballs, pens, joysticks,
keyboards, and other pointing devices. The invention is also not
limited to computer uses, but extends to all applications,
particularly those involving special purpose data processing
equipment. The specific features described herein may be used in
some embodiments, but not in others, without departure from the
spirit and scope of the invention as set forth. Various physical
arrangements of components, various movement detectors, and various
cells, including primary, secondary, and fuel, also fall within the
intended scope of the invention. Furthermore, the nature of the
link connecting a pointing device to its host need not limit the
invention.
[0074] Many additional modifications are intended in the foregoing
disclosure, and it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill
in the art that in some instances some features of the invention
will be employed in the absence of a corresponding use of other
features. The illustrative examples therefore do not define the
metes and bounds of the invention, which function has been reserved
for the following claims and their equivalents.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0075] The invention is useful and has applicability, inter alia,
as a pointing device in the field of computing machinery.
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