Importance

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Abstract

A computer mouse for generating and delivering control signals to a computer includes a foot-operated device having a housing with a top foot engaging surface, a bottom surface and an interior with one or more rollers rotatably captivated therein and disposed in moving engagement with a fixed surface. Movement of the user's foot is transmitted to the rollers, causing rotation of the rollers in a direction corresponding with the direction of foot movement. Detectors within the housing sense movement of the rollers in the x and y directions and translate the roller motion into electrical signals by generating pulses. A micro controller receives and interprets the pulses to determine linear direction of movement of the rollers in the x and y direction and transmits the interpreted data to a computer. Mechanical clicking operation is provided, wherein the one or more rollers are axially moved in response to downward force of the user's foot on the mouse, causing a switch to be operated momentarily to an on state. Alternatively, the clicking operation is performed electronically, wherein light sensors detect foot movement by comparing sensed light with predetermined ambient light conditions.

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First Claim