Here’s an interesting design from 3Dconnexion. It’s called the Space Navigator, a mouse that looks like a stylish door knob at first sight. OK, the analogy is a bit far-fetched. Anyway, 3Dconnexion claims their proprietary pressure sensing technology allows the controller cap to become a virtual extension of you.

It is specifically designed for 3D applications. Imagine you can push, pull, twist or tilt the cap a fraction of inch to simultaneously pan, zoom and rotate 3D imagery. The pressure sensitive cap can detect the slightest moves, allowing for intricate adjustments, or on the contrary, large-scale changes if you put more pressure.

3Dconnexion took care of all compatibility issues as SpaceNavigator works with a large selection of entry level and professional 3D applications. For example, it could be used to conduct elaborate 3D presentations using Adobe Reader or DWF Viewer. Want to unleash the designer in you? No problem, the mouse works swell with Autodesk Inventor or Solidworks. You can even fly through rich 3D worlds like Google Earth, Nasa World Wind or Microsoft Virtual Earth, tilting around with the “knob.”All in all, SpaceNavigator is compatible with over 100 popular 3D applications and 3Dconnexion is proud its ever-growing compatibility list. The mouse is available for about $47.