Function-oriented Knowledge Base \ Optical Mouse Cord
Modulated light pulses transmit cursor control signals to computer
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Introduction A conventional computer mouse is typically connected
to a computer via a connection cord. As a result, the cord
of the corded mouse often gets in the way, which is annoying.
Furthermore, it can be broken or operate unstably. Because
the cord is a necessary element, the operational area of the
mouse is limited. A method of providing a mouse or other pointing
device without a corded connection to the computer is needed.
Description To transmit a cursor control signal to the computer,
the use of modulated light pulses is proposed. The base of
the computer has two light sources embedded into it that emit
broad-spectrum white light over a wide, fan-shaped horizontal
angle. The white light penetrates the mouse through optical
windows. The optics of the mouse then split the white light
into red, green, yellow, blue and cyan light. The green and
red light pass through openings in an initial chopper wheel
and are reflected from an initial retroreflector. The yellow
and blue light pass through openings in a second chopper wheel
and are reflected from a second retroreflector. When the user's
hand moves the mouse forward and backward, the rotation of
the ball causes rotation of the initial chopper wheel. As
a result, a series of pulses of red and green light is produced.
When the user moves the mouse in the right/left direction,
a series of pulses of yellow and blue light is produced. The
movement of the mouse in a random direction leads to the generation
of a unique series of light pulses composed of the described
colors. These light pulses are emitted through the optical
windows of the mouse. They then reach a detecting means installed
on the computer. The detecting means (in conjunction with
electronics) converts the light pulses into corresponding
cursor control signals. The cursor control signals are sent
to the conventional input port of the host computer. Thus,
modulated light pulses transmit a cursor control signal to
the computer without a corded connection.
Additional information Cyan light is used to generate one light pulse
when the user presses a mouse button. The proposed mouse does
not contain any electronics or power sources.
