Various x-y input devices are disclosed that are adapted to allow a user to
hold and operate the input device with a stress-reducing, open grip
posture with the thumb pointing forward and on top of the device. One
preferred embodiment discloses an input device for a computer comprising
an x-y input sensor (such as a touchpad) positioned perpendicular to the
thumb such that the user provides input with the thumb tip by using
pivotal movement of the thumb. Various stress-reducing zero force touch
switches are disclosed including zero force touch switches that can be
adjusted to accommodate variations in user finger length. The mode of x-y
cursor control can be altered through the use of x-y input sensor
perimeter inputs. One preferred embodiment discloses a thumb actuated
scroll select touch switch that alters the response to actuation of the
finger actuated zero force touch switches from mouse button input to
scroll wheel input. A unique fin-shaped feature of one preferred
embodiment stabilizes the device within the relaxed hand and adapts the
device to fit a range of user hand sizes.
