Importance

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Abstract

The present invention is an input device for a computer is provided which generates input signals through a polyhedron having an enclosing surface, the polyhedron cooperating with sensing means for sensing pressure indicative of deformation forces applied externally to the enclosing surface to generate electrical signals indicative of the magnitude and location of pressure on the enclosing surface. Means are provided for coupling this array of electrical signals to the computer. In specific embodiments of the invention, the polyhedron may include means for sensing orientation in space and means for sensing location in space. In a still further embodiment, protrusions on the surface may be provided permitting a handler to pull upon the enclosing surface indicating a negative direction of applied pressure. The polyhedron may be defined by the intersection of the sphere and the cube such that the sphere includes six flat surfaces arranged mutually or diagonally and indicative of the three dimensions of real space.

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First Claim