Multi-Axis Input Apparatus

Abstract

The inventive technology, in its various embodiments, relates to improved multi-axis input devices such as joysticks, and associated multi-axis optical displacement measurement means. Certain embodiments of the input devices may comprise elements movable with respect to each other in at least, e.g., three degrees of freedom and comprise ionically conductive elements that are utilized to generate a position signal in, e.g., at least three, or at least six degrees of freedom. Various ergonomic configurations of six axis joystick embodiments which may be facilitated by the compact design of the transducer means are disclosed. Certain embodiments of the input device technology may provide feedback (e.g., relative to force applied to an item whose position is controlled by an operator) to the operatore. Means for dynamically adjusting coordinate transformations for construction machinery control are also disclosed.

1 - 77 . (canceled) 
     
     
         78 . A joystick comprising at least two movable joints between at least three elements movable with respect to each other, wherein at least one of said movable joints is movable in at least three degrees of freedom. 
     
     
         79 . The joystick of  claim 78  wherein at least one element may be secured against a user's palm while another of the movable elements may be manipulated with the user's fingers. 
     
     
         80 . The joystick of  claim 78  wherein at least one movable element may be secured against the user's palm by the users ring and little fingers while another of the movable elements may be manipulated with the user's thumb, index finger and middle finger. 
     
     
         81 . A joystick of at least 6 degrees of freedom with a grip of less than 2 inches in diameter able to be manipulated by the user's index finger, middle finger and thumb. 
     
     
         82 - 175 . (canceled) 
     
     
         176 . The joystick of  claim 78  wherein at least two of said at least two movable joints are movable in at least three degrees of freedom. 
     
     
         177 . The joystick of  claim 78  wherein said at least one of said movable joints is movable in six degrees of freedom. 
     
     
         178 . The joystick of  claim 78  wherein at least two of said at least two movable joints are movable in six degrees of freedom. 
     
     
         179 . The joystick of  claim 78  wherein one of said at least three elements is stationary. 
     
     
         180 . The joystick of  claim 78  wherein said joystick is operable with one hand. 
     
     
         181 . The joystick of  claim 78  wherein one of said at least three elements is a palm held input device. 
     
     
         182 . The joystick of  claim 181  further comprising at least one sensor for measuring inputs into said palm held input device 
     
     
         183 . The joystick of  claim 78  further comprising a non-contact position sensor.