Game controller with clickable trackball

摘要

An improved user input device is disclosed whereby the device is equipped with a trackball in addition to other control devices, such as an analog stick controller (e.g., thumbstick or joystick). The trackball is mounted in such a way that it projects both upwardly and downwardly from the device body in the vertical plane. The user is able to touch and use the trackball from both the upper and lower directions. In a preferred embodiment, the trackball is clickable, affording greater control and ease of use.

主权项

1. A computer controller comprising:
a device body; and a trackball for providing a first signal and a second signal, said trackball having upper, middle and lower portions, said trackball rotatably mounted to said device body with a coupling assembly in contact with said middle portion of said trackball, said coupling assembly comprising an upper subassembly and a lower subassembly; wherein the first signal is provided by a tracking system communicatively coupled to said lower subassembly; wherein said first signal is enabled upon selective rotation of one of said upper and lower portions of said trackball: wherein said second signal is provided by one of a first switch situated at the upper subassembly and a second switch located at the lower subassembly; and wherein said second signal is enabled upon a depression of one of said upper and lower portions of said trackball.