Importance

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Abstract

A conventional monoplane mouse is constructed to move on a flat surface upon a single plane within which a contained sphere may rotate tangential with the single plane contacting the flat surface. Signals for XY cursor movement are derived from two or more counting sensors positioned at an equator of the rotatable sphere parallel with the single plane. The mouse invention defines two or more facets in the underside housing. The facet mouse can be tilted to one of the exclusive facets and moved on a flat surface to generate XY signals. The facet plane selected by tilt is identified by triggered pressure sensitive switches at each facet plane. The switches also function as undercarriage feet to define the virtual plane of contact to the flat surface. The facet planes in two and four facet embodiments are oriented with the orthogonally placed sphere counting sensors so that the intersect of any two opposing facets is parallel with the plane of rotation of one of the counting wheels. A single sphere and counter apparatus can serve all facets, being placed at the intersect of all facets. To aid the hand in applying continuous downward pressure to the mouse onto a preferred facet, a hinged and elevatable palm hood is attached to the top of the mouse. The mouse enables a new user interface beyond the traditional ones of: 1. clicking keys by a finger and 2. whole arm movement of a mouse on an XY surface. By a tilting wrist motion, the user may instantly and continuously toggle 2,4, or more selections assigned to the facets provided.

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First Claim