Importance

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Abstract

A computer input device has function buttons which can be moved relative to a position sensor. The device can be used as a mouse. In specific embodiments of the device the position sensor includes a rotatable ball and the device can be operated either as a mouse or as a trackball. Such embodiments have a ball-carrying member which is movably connected to a member which carries one or more function buttons. When configured for mouse operation the ball-carrying member underlies the member which carries the function buttons and a ball on the ball-carrying member frictionally engages a surface under the input device. When configured for operation as a trackball the ball is offset relative to the function buttons so that the ball can be comfortably operated by a user's thumb. The device can be shaped to fit a user's hand ergonomically in both mouse mode and trackball modes. A user can reduce the risk of injury caused by repetitive motions by periodically switching between mouse operation and trackball operation. Some embodiments have a storage configuration in which the position sensor is held in a protected location. Some embodiments are adjustable to accommodate different hand sizes. In some embodiments a member carrying the function button can be separated from a member carrying the position sensor to permit two-handed operation.

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First Claim