Abstract: A prosthetic device may include a forearm portion having a prosthesis wall, a prosthesis interior formed by the prosthesis wall, a control module access opening in the prosthesis wall and communicating with the prosthesis interior, an access opening cover reversibly closing the control module access opening and a control module in the prosthesis interior adjacent to the control module access opening. A cosmetic prosthetic glove may be configured for deployment on the forearm portion. The cosmetic prosthetic glove may include a dorsal glove surface and a ventral glove surface. At least one display may be provided in at least one selected position on the cosmetic prosthetic glove. The control module may be configured to be disposed in electronic communication with the display upon deployment of the cosmetic prosthetic glove on the forearm portion. The control module may be operable to present at least one image on the display.

Abstract: Methods, computer program products, and systems are presented. The method computer program products, and systems can include, for instance: obtaining an audio input, the audio input representing sound emanating from a key press based user interface; generating a context pattern based on the audio input; performing classification of the context pattern to classify the context pattern as belonging to a signature pattern classification, wherein the signature pattern classification specifies a user activity; and providing an output based on the performing classification.

Abstract: A computer input device can include a housing, a set of key switch mechanisms positioned in the housing, and a removable key structure that is operable between a first configuration positioned in the housing and a second configuration detached from the housing. The removable key can have a position sensor, wherein in the first configuration, the removable key structure is operable to provide a key-based typing input, and, in the second configuration, the removable key structure is operable as a computer pointing device using the position sensor. The removable key structure can therefore allow comfortable, portable, and precise pointer input for a computer input system.

Abstract: What is disclosed is a system for randomization of one or more display parameters for a keypad displayed on a touchscreen of a mobile device, said system comprising a randomization subsystem to randomly select one or more variables related to at least one of said one or more display parameters, said one or more display parameters comprising a location of the keypad relative to said edge of said touchscreen; a size of said keypad; one or more sizes of one or more buttons within said keypad, and one or more positions of one or more groups of the one or more buttons within said keypad.

Abstract: An object capturing device includes light emission, receiving, and scanning units, and distance calculation, and object determination units. The scanning unit measures light from the emission unit to head toward a measurement target space to perform scanning, and to guide reflected light from the object with respect to the measurement light to the receiving unit. The distance calculation unit calculates a distance to the object in association with a scanning angle of the scanning unit. The object determination unit determines whether the object is a capture target based on whether a scanning angle range within which a difference between distances is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value corresponding to a reference scanning angle range of the capture target, and a determination of whether intensity distribution of the reflected light within the scanning angle range corresponds to reference intensity distribution of the reflected light from the capture target.

Abstract: A keyboard includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a first electrode layer, and a second electrode layer. The first substrate includes a first upper surface and a first lower surface opposite the first upper surface. The second substrate is positioned apart from the first substrate and includes a second upper surface and a second lower surface. The second upper surface faces the first lower surface. The first electrode layer is positioned on the first lower surface and includes a number of first conductive layers disposed apart from each other and including a carbon nanotube layer structure. The second electrode layer is positioned on the second upper surface and includes a second conductive layer. A number of keys is positioned on the first upper surface or the second lower surface.

Abstract: A keyboard includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a first electrode layer and a second electrode layer. The first substrate includes a first upper surface and a first lower surface. The second substrate is located apart from the first substrate and includes a second upper surface and a second lower surface. The second upper surface faces the first lower surface. The first electrode layer is located on the first lower surface and includes a first conductive layer including a carbon nanotube layer structure. The second electrode layer is located on the second upper surface and includes a second conductive layer. A number of keys is located on the first upper surface or the second lower surface.

Abstract: An electrically-assisted mechanical Braille writer includes a main solenoid to apply force to emboss Braille onto a printing medium, and advance an embossing mechanism to the next cell. A second solenoid engages a mechanical stop to prevent one or more embossing keys from being fully depressed, to prevent kickback from the keys mechanically coupling to the main solenoid. In unpowered operation, the mechanical stop is disengaged, and the embossing keys may be fully depressed to apply force to emboss Braille and advance the embossing mechanism. Accordingly, with electrical power, the user may supply a lesser amount of force and still fully emboss Braille cells, while without electrical power, the Braille writer remains fully operational.

Abstract: The present invention provides a foldable keyboard comprising a plurality of sections, a flat cable electrically connected between the sections, and a folding component connected between the sections. The folding component comprises fixing parts corresponding to the sections, and a connecting part connected between the fixing parts. The sections are correspondingly fixed on the fixing parts of the folding component. The connecting part is located between the sections. The sections pivot about the connecting part therebetween for folding or unfolding the foldable keyboard. The present invention adopts a folding component to connect the sections of the keyboard for folding the sections of the keyboard thereby being portable. The folding component is easy to manufacture with low cost, effectively reduces the thickness of the keyboard and extends the service life of the keyboard.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a data entry device to be worn on a person's wrist, similar to a wrist watch. Dimples are arrayed around the periphery of a digital display on the device. The dimples provide both a locating means for finger placement and a boundary for sensing the shift of a pressure point within, the shift in a preferred direction indicating a selection from a displayed menu to be made by lifting the finger from contact. A novel way of holding the device by its wrist band while fingering the dimples leads to a fluid method of keying functionalities for use as a phone and as an internet-enabled device.

Abstract: A computer keyboard system with alternative exercise capabilities for the prevention of repetitive stress injuries in a user. The computer keyboard system has a computer keyboard and first and second non-typing, laterally movable exercise mechanisms retained by the computer keyboard. The exercise mechanisms are intermittently actuable as an alternative physical exercise to typing movements to prevent repetitive stress injuries. Operation of the keyboard can be impaired after a period of operation as measured by a typing parameter, such as keystrokes or typing time, and restored through actuation of the non-typing exercise mechanism.

Abstract: An operation apparatus that enables selection of a required menu item from a plurality of menu items without several pushes of operation keys, and an electronic device that is equipped with the operation apparatus. When a fingertip is moved while protrusion portions of an operation apparatus are being touched with the fingertip, this is detected by an electrostatic capacitance-type sensor, and a selection frame for selecting a menu item is moved horizontally/vertically. Then, when the selection frame reaches a required menu item, the menu item is selected. Thus, it is possible to select a required menu item from a plurality of menu items just by moving a finger while touching the protrusion portion, without several pushes of operation keys.

Abstract: A keyboard is configured for using the kinetic energy of the keystroke to generate electricity, the keyboard includes a key, a base, a resilient element connecting to the key and the base to restore the key after the key is pressed, a transmission device slidablely connected to the base, and a generator engaged with the transmission device. When the key is pressed, the transmission device is forced to slide on the base by the key and drive the generator to generate electricity.

Abstract: A keyboard includes a first housing having a plurality of first magnetic elements, a keystroke module having a key portion disposed on the first housing, a second housing combining with the first housing and has an opening, and an actuating assembly. The keystroke module is disposed corresponding to the opening. The actuating assembly is disposed movably on the second housing and has a plurality of second magnetic elements. The keystroke module is not protruded from the opening and is at a packing position. When the actuating assembly is moved along an actuating direction, at least one first magnetic element and at least one second magnetic element attract to each other to shorten the distance, which brings the second housing to move relatively to the first housing so that the key portion of the keystroke module passes though the opening and is at a using position.

Abstract: Disclosed in a wearable electronic device including an optical keypad supported by a keypad housing. The optical keypad may include a plurality of keys disposed along the keypad housing, and a plurality of illumination sources and optical receivers with a corresponding illumination source and optical receiver for each of the plurality of keys. The keypad signal interface may be limited to three connections, to provide a connection for power, a connection for ground, and a connection for data between the keypad housing and the main housing. The electronic device may also include at least one optical receiver configured to be optically coupled to at least one of the plurality of illumination sources, and configured to convert a received optical signal representing data into an electrical signal representing data. The illumination sources may provide optical signals during key presses, and may in addition provide key illumination for unpressed keys.

Abstract: A keyboard is configured for using the kinetic energy of the keystroke to generate electricity, the keyboard includes a key, a base, a resilient element connecting to the key and the base to restore the key after the key is pressed, a transmission device slidablely connected to the base, and a generator engaged with the transmission device. When the key is pressed, the transmission device is forced to slide on the base by the key and drive the generator to generate electricity.

Abstract: According to an aspect of the invention, an enhanced audible feedback solution has been invented for electronic devices using an input device facilitating navigation though a plurality of available user interface input options and confirmation of a selected input option. The electronic device is arranged to define, as a response to detecting a selection of a character on the basis of a detection of a first input to an input device of the electronic device, an audio segment specific to the character. The electronic device is arranged to output the defined audio segment via the audio output means prior to a confirmation by a second input to the input device, the second input being associated with a function adding the character as part of a character sequence entered by the user.

Abstract: A controlling device, such as a universal remote control, that uses visual, audio, and/or tactile cues, such as sounds, color, patterns, shapes, vibrations, etc., to indicate relationships. Relationships may be between a function key and an intended target appliance for a command transmitted in response to activation of the function key, a user and the controlling device, or a room and the controlling device.

Abstract: A system, method, and computer-readable medium having instructions for determining a key press from a current keyboard state at a current time is described. The system stores signals indicative of a last key press, a last key press time, and a last keyboard state. The system determines released keys and pressed keys on the keyboard at the current time based on comparison with the last keyboard state. The system determines a key press at the current time if the first determination determines a single key press and if either of: (a) a match exists between the determined key press and the last key pressed and if the elapsed time between the current time and the last key press time is larger than a preset bounce time; and (b) a match does not exist between the determined key press and the last key press.

Abstract: Optics are utilized in an input device such as a mouse or keyboard, for example, to detect a condition of one or more selection indicators, such as whether a key or button has been depressed or a scroll wheel has been rotated. Depressing a key, clicking a button and/or rotating a scroll wheel cause one or more optical signals to be reflected from the corresponding selection indicator onto an optical detector. The optical detector generates electrical signals in response to the light received by the optical detector. A computational device of the input device processes the electrical signals to determine whether a key or button has been depressed, whether a scroll wheel has been rotated, etc. The corresponding information is then input to a computer that is interfaced with the input device.

Abstract: A keyboard with a recharge function for a computer system having a rechargeable wireless peripheral is described. The keyboard includes a charger and a charging dock. The charger is disposed inside the keyboard and charges the rechargeable wireless peripheral with power from the keyboard. The charging dock is a channel with an opening on a sidewall of the keyboard and can store the rechargeable wireless peripheral therein so as to electrically couple the rechargeable wireless peripheral to the charger.

Abstract: A key structure comprises a membrane circuit, a substrate, a cover and a press element. The membrane circuit comprises at least one first signal generator and a second signal generator. The substrate is disposed below the membrane circuit to support the membrane circuit. The cover comprises a body and at least one protrusion, wherein the protrusion is disposed on the body corresponding to the first signal generator. The press element is disposed on the second signal generator, wherein when force is applied on the cover, the protrusion presses the first signal generator.

Abstract: A typing keyboard is provided for minimizing non-productive hand movements. The keyboard comprises a plurality of keys for entering alphanumeric text, the keys being positioned according to a conventional keyboard layout, and at least one modifier key for assigning commonly-used keyboard functions to predetermined ones of the keys positioned near a normal resting position of a user's typing fingers.

Abstract: A key array for a keyboard is provided having an input key section including a plurality of input keys. Each input key has a left key part, a central key part, and a right key part. A left control key is positioned on a left side of the input key section so as to convert a mode of the keyboard into a right key input mode so that the right key part is operated when a user presses the key input section. A right control key is positioned on a right side of the input key section so as to convert the mode of the keyboard into a left key input mode so that the left key part is operated when the user presses the key input section. A shift key section including two shift keys is aligned on both sides of the keyboard adjacent to the left and right control keys in order to attain additional functions of the keyboard when the shift keys are pressed simultaneously with the input key section.

Abstract: A system and method for efficient Asian character text input into a reduced keypad machine such as a word processor, telephone, hand-held computer, or personal computer is provided. The system comprises a data entry keypad associated with a monitor, and a disambiguation process supporting multiple keycap depression timespan range definitions and interpretations to produce accurate messaging with a reduced keypad.

Abstract: The method for automatic determination of validity or invalidity of input from miniaturized keypads or keyboards, in which more than one key is operated at the same time, includes designating a number of keys as principal keys and assigning each key neighboring each principal key as nearest neighbor or next nearest neighbor and then testing each signal produced by key operation. The signal is valid if it is produced by operation of only one single key. However testing continues if two or more keys produce the signal. Then the signal is valid when the two or more keys are correlated in an unambiguous principal key-nearest neighbor key relationship. If not, testing continues further and the signal is valid if the plural keys are correlated in an unambiguous principal key-nearest neighbor key-next nearest neighbor key relationship. Otherwise the signal is an invalid key input.

Abstract: A keyboard having an improved function key section and an improved editing section. A row of keys is located behind the alphanumeric section. The row of keys includes individual predefined command keys. The groupings of the predefined command keys may be made based on the functionality of the keys, their use on common applications or programs, and/or other by other grouping techniques. Further, the keys within each group may be ordered based on chronological order of use, frequency of use, or by a correlation to a graphical toolbar. Each of at least two adjacent groupings of keys in behind the alphanumeric region consists of exactly three keys, and each of at least three adjacent key groupings in the entire row consists of exactly three keys. The keys are each capable of functioning as predetermined command keys in a first mode and standard function keys in a second mode.

Abstract: A computer keyboard providing an audible alert and a visual alert to the user when the keyboard is in the CAPS LOCK mode of operation. A computer system including a computer keyboard providing an audible alert and a visual alert to the user when the keyboard is in the CAPS LOCK mode of operation. A computer keyboard and a computer system having a timer to turn off the CAPS LOCK mode after a period of time during which no keyboard keys are struck.

Abstract: This invention is a keyboard apparatus with front and back key functionality. The body of the apparatus is held in the hands, supported by the palms. This leaves both of the thumbs and all of the fingers free to operate the key functionality, while the apparatus is being held. Key functionality installed on the back is operated by the fingers; key functionality installed on the front is operated by the thumbs. When properly configured, the user may perform full touch-typing techniques while holding the apparatus. This configuration may reduce stress on the hands. Modifier keys are shaped, grouped and positioned so they may be operated by one thumb. Algorithms provide keyboard lock function and aid the user in locating the home row of keys needed for touch-typing.

Abstract: An alphanumeric keyboard has a plurality of alphanumeric keys and includes at least one built-in microphone. The at least one microphone is controlled by a processor such that the at least one microphone is able to be operated in an automatic mode. When in the automatic mode and an alphanumeric key is activated, the at least one microphone is deactivated for a predetermined period. The predetermined period is controlled by a timer. Also disclosed is the inclusion in the keyboard of one or more of: echo cancellation; a card reader; a wireless data receiver; and a contactless induction charger.

Abstract: A keyboard having an improved function key section and an improved editing section. A row of keys is located behind the alphanumeric section. The row of keys includes individual predefined command keys. The groupings of the predefined command keys may be made based on the functionality of the keys, their use on common applications or programs, and/or other by other grouping techniques. Further, the keys within each group may be ordered based on chronological order of use, frequency of use, or by a correlation to a graphical toolbar. Each of at least two adjacent groupings of keys behind the alphanumeric region consists of exactly three keys, and each of at least three adjacent key groupings in the entire row consists of exactly three keys. The keys are each capable of functioning as predetermined command keys in a first mode and standard function keys in a second mode.

Abstract: A keyboard having an improved numeric section and an improved numeric key cluster in the numeric section. The keyboard preferably includes an alphanumeric or QWERTY section and an editing section laterally disposed from the numeric section. A row of function keys is preferably provided above at least the numeric key cluster. The present invention also provides keys frequently used with the numeric section within, or in close proximity to, the key cluster in the numeric section. A Tab key or an Equals “=” key has been provided within the key cluster for improved efficiency. Additionally, a row, preferably including four keys, is provided above and in close proximity to the numeric key cluster. These keys preferably include a Left Parenthesis “(“ key, a Right Parenthesis “)” key, a Backspace key, and a Tab key or an Equals “=” key, whichever is not provided within the numeric key cluster. The keyboard does not include a specifically labeled NumLock key within the numeric key cluster.

Abstract: The invention is to provide a method for inputting different characters by multi-directionally pressing one single key of a portable electronic device more than one time, the key having a plurality of protuberances on an underside and a circuit board having a plurality of pads being equal in number to the protuberances and disposed correspondingly thereto, the method comprises determining the conduction periods of time by a control circuit, while one key being multi-directionally pressed a plurality of times to cause the protuberances to contact the corresponding pads at different conduction periods of time; reading a corresponding character sequentially from a built-in character database based on a longer one of the conduction periods of time; and displaying the read character. By utilizing this method, it is possible of effecting a fast input on the keypad.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a computer keyboard having a key sensing device that provides two levels of sensing by generating electrical signals depending on the force applied on the keys. The different levels of key sensing can be used to provide different functions, for instance, in a software application. This key sensing functionality can be provided on all or only some of the keys of the keyboard. For example, the different pressure levels applied on the key can be used to control cursor movement or scrolling and to produce pressure-based shifting between lower case and upper case. A method of providing pressure sensitive key functionalities for a keyboard comprises producing a signal by applying a pressure to a key which is configured to produce different signals in response to different pressure levels applied to the key. A user interface response is generated based on the signal produced by the pressure applied to the key.

Abstract: A rugged keyboard and cursor positioning device with an inherent restiveness from external fluids to interior keyboard fluid contamination. The key interrupters and cursor positioning device block optical beams for key and cursor positioning detection thus eliminating contacts and contact actuation life. When a key is in the most depressed position the key cap is against the keyboard top surface protecting all internal parts from pressure, or force from harsh use or a vandals blow.

Abstract: A keyboard device includes a sensor (1) for detecting whether hands of a user are present at the home position, a function switching key to select one of the two functions by pressing a key (2), a sensor validating/invalidating switch (3) to changeover the validation/invalidation of the detection result of the sensor, and a microcomputer 6 for selecting the function according to the detection result of the sensor (1) when the sensor validating/invalidating switch (3) is validated, and by the function switching key when the same is invalidated.

Abstract: A method and system that monitors movement of a wheel or slider included on a keyboard, and conveys information indicative of the movement and its direction to a host computing device to which the keyboard is coupled, using predefined scan codes or Universal Serial Bus (USB) data signal. State changes and the direction of rotation are detected as the wheel is rotated. Preferably, an elapsed time between state changes is compared to a set of threshold times, and the scan code representing the closest threshold time is selected. Alternatively, a scan code is transmitted that is indicative of the sign and magnitude of a threshold number corresponding to an accumulated number of state changes. The host computing device decodes the scan code or USB data for use in controlling a scroll distance, zoom, etc. as a function of the movement indicated by the scan code or USB data.

Abstract: A key switch signal recognition circuit including a plurality of key switch buttons, a plurality of key switch signal output lines, and a plurality of key switch button contact areas is disclosed. Each of the key switch contact areas includes a first wire set and a second wire set. The first wire set has at least one wire, and each wire of the first wire set has one end connected to a common line and an opposite end forming an open end. The second wire set has at least one wire respectively disposed in parallel to and electrically insulated from the wire of the first wire set. The wire of the second wire set is respectively connected to a key switch signal output line.

Abstract: A keyboard assembly includes an interface facility having a USB plug for coupling to computer facility and an interface switching device coupled to the USB plug. A keyboard facility includes an interface device coupled to the interface facility, an electric power supply device coupled to the interface device to receive electric power from the computer facility, and a keyboard matrix device to detect and send signals of the keyboard assembly to the computer facility. A blue tooth facility is coupled to the interface facility, and includes a signal transforming device and an antenna to receive and send signals.

Abstract: A portable keyboard apparatus includes a set of movable parallel linkages connected at joints and configured to expand and collapse. A plurality of button assemblies, including associated actuators and contacts, is coupled to the parallel linkages, preferably at corresponding joints of the linkages. A plurality of electrical connections are configured to electrically couple the contacts of each button assembly actuator to the at least one input/output port.

Abstract: In an electronic apparatus, a pressing of keys other than a print key is detected when the key is continuously in a pressed state for at least two periods in a key scan period. The pressing of the print key is detected when the print key is continuously in the pressed state for at least ten periods in the key scan period. This structure prevents the print key from triggering a print operation if it is accidentally pressed.

Abstract: An improved membrane keyboard includes a bottom layer, a second conductive membrane layer located above the bottom layer having an output section extended from one end thereof at a selected location linking to an interrupt device, an insulation layer located above the second conductive membrane layer, a first conductive membrane layer located above the insulation layer, a top layer located above the first conductive membrane layer having a jutting section formed at one end with the top layer bonding to the bottom layer and forming an opening end at the jutting section, and a button key layer located between the first conductive membrane layer and the top layer.

Abstract: A keyboard control system that contains a manufacturer's identification code and a multiple selection matrix. This invention utilizes all the existing LED leads on a keyboard controller. Using the period between initial setting and normal operation together with triggering signals, user or customer is able to pick up suitable data from a single keyboard controller. In addition, the invention is capable of using the same leads for connecting to external serial EEPROM so that new data not included among the preset data within the keyboard controller can still be input to the controller. Furthermore, the same type of technique can be used to increase the number of combinations in different application areas as long as more keyboard controller input/output ports are available.

Abstract: A keyboard apparatus has keys for operation by a user. The keyboard includes a first plurality of keys being coupled to electrical generator apparatus for generating electricity from their operation. A second plurality of the keys is not coupled to electrical generator apparatus. The first plurality of keys exhibits a greater average statistical frequency of usage per key than does the second plurality.

Abstract: A standard keyboard structure of a computer is modified wherein one or more of the numeric, function or letter keys are replaced with a multimedia key to digitally display, when struck, a multimedia symbol. One example of such a key would be “http://” as the upper case portion and “.org” as the lower case. Other combinations would include “www.” as the upper case and “.com” as the lower case portion of the key, or similar combinations useful for accessing, for example, the internet or worldwide web.

Abstract: A keyboard having an improved function key section and an improved editing section. A row of keys is located behind the alphanumeric section. The row of keys includes individual predefined command keys. The groupings of the predefined command keys may be made based on the functionality of the keys, their use on common applications or programs, and/or other by other grouping techniques. Further, the keys within each group may be ordered based on chronological order of use, frequency of use, or by a correlation to a graphical toolbar. Each of at least two adjacent groupings of keys behind the alphanumeric region consists of exactly three keys, and each of at least three adjacent key groupings in the entire row consists of exactly three keys. The keys are each capable of functioning as predetermined command keys in a first mode and standard function keys in a second mode.

Abstract: A keyboard includes a keyboard body similar to a traditional keyboard. The keyboard body has an edge from which an additional portion extends. The portion has a top face on which an EL panel or a thin plate having patterns and/or figures printed thereon is placed. A transparent cover is openably attached to the portion for covering the top face and thus housing the EL panel or the thin plate. The cover may be hinged to the portion whereby it is movable between a closed position and an open position. Alternatively, the cover is releasably attached to the portion whereby the cover can be removed for replacing a new EL panel or a new thin plate having different patterns printed thereon. The EL panel or the printed thin plate serves the purpose of decoration and enhances the appeal of the keyboard to the general consumers.

Abstract: A keyboard with illuminated keys including a keyboard housing having a plurality of key recesses formed therein. A plurality of keys are received within the plurality of key recesses of the keyboard housing. The plurality of keys each have a generally square configuration. The keys each have an upper end and a lower end. The lower end has a pair of recesses formed therein. The recesses each have a light disposed therein. The upper end is divided into two sections. The two sections each correspond with one of the lights of the pair of recesses. Each of the two sections have illuminatable indicia disposed thereon. The plurality of keys include at least one shift key. The shift key controls the activation of the lights whereby a pressing of the shift key causes one of the lights to illuminate and a release of the shift key causes the other light to illuminate thereby illuminating the indicia of one of the sections at one time.

Abstract: An integrated keyboard input device is disclosed, including those used for Point-Of-Sale system (POS). The standard keyboard is integrated with one or more optical scanners and any combination of other input peripheral devices, the optical scanner being mounted within the keyboard housing. The peripherals preferably can be selectively connected and disconnected from the keyboard and are interfaced with a keyboard wedge which allows each input peripheral to communicate directly to a computer in keyboard data format without requiring separate electrical connections to the computer.

Abstract: A key switch signal recognition circuit including a plurality of key switch buttons, a plurality of key switch signal output lines, and a plurality of key switch button contact areas is disclosed. Each of the key switch contact areas includes a first wire set and a second wire set. The first wire set has at least one wire, and each wire of the first wire set has one end connected to a common line and an opposite end forming an open end. The second wire set has at least one wire respectively disposed in parallel to and electrically insulated from the wire of the first wire set. The wire of the second wire set is respectively connected to a key switch signal output line.