Universal Input Device and System

Abstract

The present invention relates to input devices and particularly to input devices for use with computer and telecommunications systems and/or other object systems and/or devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to a universal input device for inputting data.

1 - 23 . (canceled) 
     
     
         24 . An input device for generating signals indicating input requests by a user, the device comprising:
 a base portion;   a control portion;   a plurality of input means disposed on said control portion for permitting a user to input a request;   a universal connection means for connecting said control portion to said base portion and for permitting a user to move said control portion universally with respect to the base portion;   a signal generating means, operatively connected to the plurality of input means and the universal connection means, for generating a first plurality of signals indicating a position of the control portion and for generating a second plurality of signals indicating user data input requests; and   a rotational mechanism which permits a user to rotate the control portion with respect to the base portion, wherein the signal generating means is operatively connected to the rotational mechanism and generates a signal indicating rotational position of the control portion with respect to the base portion.