3D Mouse; control of any 3D application in the palm of your hand

Background

We designed the SpaceMouse² to free the 3D mouse from the desk. It brings two-handed 3D control to a handheld environment, by combining the power of a 3D mouse with the navigation of a standard mouse. Holding the mouse in the dexterous hand, movements in the air translate into mouse pointer control. The natural wrap of the hand around the mouse affords access to left and right mouse buttons for the index and middle fingers. 3D navigation is performed with the non-dexterous hand by manipulating the controller cap, providing complete control of any 3D environment.

Market

The SpaceMouse² leverages the advantages of 3D control and mouse navigation in a handheld format. The aim of this is to expose new applications and market opportunities for 3Dconnexion:
In the professional world, the SpaceMouse² comes into its own for wireless presentations of 3D models and environments. We also designed the SpaceMouse² to ensure CAD users always have access to a full functionality 3D input device.
In the consumer market, the SpaceMouse² can easily navigate within programs like Google Earth and Media Centre in a big screen TV environment.
Finally and perhaps most significantly, it will bring handheld wireless 3D control and navigation to tablet devices. This is particularly useful for 3D applications, where touch screen control can be intrusive.

Use Cases

The SpaceMouse² combines the full functionality of a Professional 3D mouse with a 3D digital compass and 3D accelerometer sensor, in a compact handheld form. The inclusion of Bluetooth allows connectivity without the need for a USB dongle, which affords compatibility with tablet devices.
At the base of the controller cap sits the control ring, which consists of ten fully programmable buttons. Each button can access two functions, one via a single press and the other via press and hold. In addition to this, the shift button acts as a modifier, adding a third function to each button, giving 29 programmable buttons. Built into each button is an AMOLED display to define the programmed function of the two main states. With the shift key pressed the button display changes dynamically to display the programmed function with the shift modifier applied.
The sensors of the SpaceMouse² are programmed to detect when it is not in use and put the unit into sleep mode to save battery power. A mini USB port and USB cable is included for charging via a computer or USB charger.

SpaceDock Ergonomic desk adaptor/charger for SpaceMouse²

Functionality

We designed the SpaceDock with two functions in mind: The first is to charge the SpaceMouse². The second is to adapt it for two-handed use on the desk, in conjunction with a standard mouse. It includes a captive USB cable and cable-management system.
The SpaceDock’s form includes a wrist rest, which affords full ergonomic functionality, whilst occupying minimal desk space. It provides the professional user with a complete 3D input solution while maintaining easy access to the portability of the SpaceMouse².