A computer input device and method used to input coordinates and
three-dimensional graphical information into a computer. The device
includes an acceleration sensor that has a fixed volume vessel containing
a magnetic fluid. A non-magnetic inertial body is located in the magnetic
fluid. Three magnetic field sources are located on three perpendicular
axes where each magnetic field source has an output for connection to a
computer. Changes in Q-factors and inductance of electromagnetic coils
aligned on the X, Y, and Z-axis of the sensor are used to compute linear
and angular acceleration components of any movement involving the sensor
which permits three-dimensional coordinates to be provided in real-time.