Abstract: Alphanumeric keyboards are described for use with one hand to enter data. Each keyboard includes a plurality of individually movable alphanumeric keys that are each assigned a different letter of the alphabet. The keys are positioned side-by-side in multiple rows such that when four fingers of one hand are positioned over a home position, these fingers can depress all the letters by moving less than three key positions from the home position. Specialized key features are provided on the keyboard to facilitate the execution of multi-key combinations.A right-hand keyboard and a left-hand keyboard are disclosed as interchangeable with a conventional keyboard in a supporting shell. Alternatively, both the right-hand and left-hand keyboards are supported on opposite sides of a common rotatable member pivotably mounted in the supporting shell.

Abstract: A combination keyboard and keyboard/mouse controller system is capable of use with different types of personal computers, using either a keyboard input alone or a keyboard/mouse combination. The controller is configured with a hardware transceiver in it, and includes interconnections between an accumulator and a microsequencer portion and a transceiver for effecting the transfer of data to and from the computer and the keyboard or keyboard/mouse combination. The configuration of the controller circuitry is such that logic gates and multiplex transmission gates are employed between various ones of the input terminals to which signals are applied, and output terminals to which signals are provided. These gates interconnect at least some of these terminals in different combinations in different modes of operation of the controller system, depending upon whether a computer uses a keyboard alone as a data input device or is operated with a combination of a keyboard and mouse.

Abstract: A Bicameral Keyboard is provided for generating pictographic characters wherein twenty keys are sufficient to specify the roughly 3000 characters required for ordinary personal and business correspondence. The Bicameral Keyboard is compatible with pictographic expression and pedagogy and will permit direct access to word processors, translation machines, page editors, and printers at input rates more rapid than possible using the alphanumeric keyboard with western orthographic characters.

Abstract: A keyboard operable by one hand includes a first group of four elongated finger keys extending vertically in parallel spaced relation so as to be accessible by the four fingers of a user's hand, and a second group of thumb keys extending laterally of the first group and spaced vertically with respect to each other so as to be accessible by the user's thumb. The keyboard may include a first section operable by one hand and having the above two groups of keys for selecting alphabetical characters, and a second section operable by the second hand having further keys for selecting numerical characters, punctuation and operational controls.

Abstract: A computer system employs a keyboard that includes an integrated pointing device coupled to a pointing key. The system has a typing mode of operation and a pointing mode of operation. In the pointing mode, the pointing key is used to enter pointing information, thereby obviating a discrete pointing device such as a mouse. The system may be switched between the typing mode and the pointing mode explicitly by predetermined commands. Alternatively, the system may be switched into the pointing mode implicitly by monitoring and timing keyboard events following a pointing key press.

Abstract: A keyboard, for use in a workprocessor or like electronic machine, includes multiple keys arranged in an array of rows and columns, a stationary base, a moveable operator connecting each key and the stationary base such that each key is moveable in four diagonal directions relative to the remaining keys, and spring strips and switch contacts disposed beneath each key and arranged such that movement of the key in any of the four diagonal directions closes a respective switch contact to produce a distinct function, e.g., an al0phanumeric character.

Abstract: A computer system employs an integrated keyboard and pointing device to allow user input of alpha-numeric (typing) information, pointing direction information and pointing event information without moving the users's hands from the usual typing position on the keyboard. The new system has typing and pointing modes of operation. In the pointing mode, preassigned keyswitches are used to input pointing events, cursor speed changes, and other modifications to the system's operation. All such modifications are transparent to the operating system and application software because they are processed at keyboard interrupt level.

Abstract: A keyboard usable on a typewriter or a computer terminal and configured in accordance with ergonomic principles uses chording of one thumb and one finger to type the characters of the English alphabet. The keyboard includes right and left preloaded palm pads which are shaped and contoured to fit the hands. The palm pads support the hands and operate the SHIFT and SHIFT LOCK functions. The punctuation keys are not affected by the SHIFT function. Movement of the writing position or cursor with respect to the medium is controlled by thumb-operated keys which are pushed in the direction of the desired movement.

Abstract: A keyboard operable with one hand includes a plurality of keys arranged on a keyboard base so as to be opposite to the fingertips of the operator's hand in a naturally spread state and each having switching contacts which are selectively engaged by moving the operator's fingers. Therefore, it is possible to impart many kinds of key signals with a simple operation.

Abstract: An ergometrically improved computer of typewriter keyboard having the keys arranged and designated so that they are operated using finger movements which substantially mimic those currently employed by a typist using a standard "QWERTY" keyboard. The keyboard is divided into two separate sections, one of which is intended to be used by the right hand of the operator and the other of which is intended to be used by the left hand to permit independent positioning of the two sections relative to one another. Each keyboard section includes a housing having a raised central portion designed to ergometrically support and steady the hands of the operator, in a natural relaxed position from which all of the keys may be operated without significant hand movement. The fingers and thumb are positioned in respective cavities each having a plurality of push button key switches arranged therein for engagement by the thumb and fingers, with a minimal and unique finger movement required to actuate any key.

Abstract: A device for one-handed generation of alpha-numeric characters in an alpha or numeric mode including letters, numerals, punctuation marks and mathematical function symbols is provided, comprising a finger key section comprising a first array of four finger keys and a second array of four finger keys, respective keys of said first and second arrays arranged in adjacent pairs, said finger keys each operable individually to generate a single character at a time, said first array of finger keys in an alpha mode assigned to the generation of all of the consonants and said second array of finger keys in an alpha mode being assigned to the generation of all of the vowels, one of said arrays in a numeric mode being assigned to the generation of numerals and mathematical symbols, a thumb key section comprising at least one array of four thumb keys, said thumb keys of said array in an alpha mode assigning said first array of finger keys to the generation of consonants and in a numeric mode assigning to one of said arra

Abstract: A one-handed keyboard is disclosed which includes a stationary base and a rocking keyboard which is mounted for rocking movement between a normal level position and right and left depressed positions. A selector key is mounted on the rocking keyboard for rocking therewith and also being pivotally mounted for movement between a normal upper or raised position and a lower postion to which it moves when the user rests the palm of his hand on it. A cluster of keys is provided, each of which is multi-function representing a plurality of alpha-numeric characters and/or symbols that can be typed or entered by selective actuation of the character keys, rocking keyboard, selector key and a shift key by movements of one hand and movements of the fingers thereof.

Abstract: A data entry system comprising a one-handed keyboard having five data keys and five control keys which are used in combinations for entering data and control characters in the system. The system also comprises a cursor control assembly for controlling a cursor on a screen and controls for permitting a single keyboard to be operated with either the left or right hand.

Abstract: A coded font keyboard design is presented wherein conventional keyboard formats, such as the qwerty keyboard, are coded to produce instructional materials for developmental language education using the periodic code of language elements. A preferred embodiment describes the use of the qwerty keyboard to product all coded symbols used in the periodic table of language elements.

Abstract: A quasi-steno keyboard permits text entry into a computer either by standard letter-by-letter typing or by stenotyping. The keys of the keyboard are arranged in three parallel rows with the tops of the keys in the first and second rows being substantially coplanar and the tops of at least four keys in the third row being coplanar and lower than those in the first and second rows. The four keys in the third row are laterally centered in the keyboard and are positioned, with respect to the keys of the first and second rows, such that a thumb can rest comfortably on each of these keys when an index or other finger of the same hand rests on a crack between adjacent keys in the first and second rows.

Abstract: A keyboard having ten elongate keys extending in a row substantially at right angles to a transverse centerline through the keys with each of the keys having a longitudinal trough on its upper surface defined by three recesses extending longitudinally of the key, with the sides of the recesses of adjacent edges of the fourth and fifth keys and of the sixth and seventh keys being reduced in height so as to facilitate movement of the index fingers from the fourth to the fifth key and from the seventh to the sixth key. Each of the elongate keys actuates three switches depending into which of the three recesses of the key a finger is applied, and the elongate key of one form of the invention is formed by a central relatively short auxiliary key and a long auxiliary key on its opposite ends, with these being articulated. Switch mechanism actuated by the key includes three plates in face-to-face contact.

Abstract: Described is a data entry keyboard having a small number of keys, each key being a ternary device having three possible positions. In the preferred embodiment, each key is adapted to move towards or away from the operator, and has a central "off" position. A spring detent makes the key return to the central position in the absence of pressure from the finger. The three positions of each key are indicated electrically by switches which produce distinctive signals for each of the three states. The top of each key is formed to provide a secure grip. The preferred embodiment comprises eight ternary keys in two sets of four. The two sets are arranged so that the fingers of the operator's right hand rest on the keys of a rightmost set, and the fingers of the operator's left hand rest on the keys of the leftmost set. The only key combinations which represent valid characters are those in which one finger of the right hand operates its key, and one finger of the left hand operates its key.

Abstract: A keyboard includes a plurality of keys thereon, each of which is capable of three different switching actions for entry of data or commands into a word processor, typewriter, computer or the like. Each key includes a first inclined surface for generating a first switching action responsive to finger contraction, a second inclined surface for generating a second switching action responsive to finger extension, and a horizontal surface for actuating a third switching action responsive to finger depression. Each key is connected to a respective switch. Each switch includes a carriage operating horizontally against spring-loaded horizontal plugs. The carriage houses a spring-loaded vertical stem attached to the respective key. In one embodiment each key-switch combination is substantially identical to the other. The base is formed into different levels upon which key-switch combinations are mounted.

Abstract: A keyboard includes a plurality of keys thereon, each of which is capable of three different switching actions for entry of data or commands into a word processor, typewriter, computer or the like. Each key includes a first inclined surface for generating a first switching action responsive to finger contraction, a second inclined surface for generating a second switching action responsive to finger extension, and a horizontal surface for actuating a third switching action responsive to finger depression. Each key is connected to a respective switch. Each switch includes a carriage operating horizontally against spring-loaded horizontal plugs. The carriage houses a spring-loaded vertical stem attached to the respective key.

Abstract: A magnetic weather strip for sealing a door within a frame comprises a pre-bent thin iron based resilient metal strip of L shape extending along the sides and top edge of the door and secured thereto. A wood strip is mounted upon the frame along the sides and top of the door and has a compressible resilient filler mounted along its length and interlocked therewith. An elongated magnetic strip is embedded within the filler opposed to the metal strip, with the filler in yieldable sealing engagement with the metal strip when the door is closed, and the metal strip attracted to the magnetic strip.

Abstract: A computer system comprises a terminal and a keyboard, the terminal comprises a central control unit for controlling the operation of the keyboard and the keyboard comprises a switch array, the switch array has a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. The terminal further comprises a data output port for transmitting a command signal from the terminal central control unit and a data input port for receiving a data signal from the keyboard. The command signal comprises a keyboard initialize signal and a keyboard increment signal. The keyboard further comprises a four-wire keyboard interface for communicating with the terminal.

Abstract: A multipurpose keyswitch for controlling cursor movement on a CRT display and for character entry includes a key cap that moves laterally to provide cursor control and that moves vertically for character entry. Sensors are coupled to the key cap for sensing the lateral movement of the key cap. Forward and backward movement of the key cap selects upward and downward movement of the cursor on the CRT display. Left and right movement of the key cap selects left and right movement of the cursor. Vertical movement of the key cap selects the entry of a character. The multipurpose keyswitch is advantageously positioned as one of the home keys of the keyboard.

Abstract: A keyboard system for chord entry keying of alphanumeric data fields includes decoding logic permitting substantially or near-simultaneous depression of numeric or alpha data keys and entry or function keys. The logic provides a decoding algorithm for resolving simultaneous entries by utilizing one or another rule of time of key depression. Depression of a numeric or alpha key within 60 milliseconds of an entry key is permitted for decoding of the data as the last key of the current data field. In a time frame between 60 and 100 milliseconds, a warning tone is received for purposes of verifying the last data field entry and to allow the operator to monitor timing performance.

Abstract: In a manual digit data input device, including a set of cups configured to captivate the distal phalanges of a human hand; a housing; apparatus resiliently mounting the cups in the housing for mutually orthogonal transverse movements of the cups; and control apparatus actuated in response to movement of the cups.

Abstract: A time slot-controlling circuit (14, 14'), applicable for use with diverse types of keyboard-operated utilization devices or apparatus (18, 97, 98), such as in a pushbutton telephone (90), allows all (or pre-selected) keyboard-mounted key switches (24a-n, 24a'-h') to acquire a selected one of at least two different time slot-dependent operating states. This advantageously allows each key to initiate or control more than one work (or logic) function performed by an associated keyboard-operated utilization device or apparatus (18, 97, 98), as typically employed in a composite system or apparatus (10, 90). Such a two-state mode of operation is accomplished by each of two illustrative time slot-controlling circuit embodiments (14, 14') comprising a common time slot signal generator (21, 21'), which is responsively connected to a plurality of control signal generating channel selector circuits (22a-n, 22a'-h').

Abstract: A data input device equipped with a keyboard including a plurality of keys at least some of which are assigned both a letter of the alphabet and a numerical value, which keys are operated to generate signals representing data that comprises a letter of the alphabet and numerical values immediately following the letter. The initial operation of one of the keys produces the data indicated by the letter of the alphabet assigned to that key, and subsequent operation of the keys produces the data indicated by the numerical values assigned to the keys that have been operated.

Abstract: A keyboard input device for printers, composing apparatus, or clear text display devices which employ type fonts that can be changed at will, has a group of multiple indicia bearing keys which can be positioned to bring a different set of indicia to a readable position to indicate to the operator the character make-up of the type font being used. Both manual and electrical mechanisms are provided to effect indicia positioning. Mechanism is also provided to interconnect indicia selection with either manual or automatic type font selection and changing. Each key operates an electrical switch which is connected to a diode matrix to provide coded output to the device under control.

Abstract: A keyboard for a typewriter or the like including a series of elongate keys disposed in a row and normally with respect to the front edge of the typewriter or at an acute angle with respect thereto. Each of the keys is depressable when a finger pressure is applied on the center, home tablet surface of the key for causing the typing action of a certain letter; the key is depressable when the finger is reached to a tablet surface adjacent to the upper edge of the key and the key is then depressed to cause the typing action for another letter; and the key likewise provides a typing action for still another letter when the finger is reached downwardly toward the lower edge of the key to a lower tablet surface and the key is then depressed.

Abstract: A keyboard (61) includes plural keybar actuators (11) each including plural keys (19, 23, 27, 31) hingedly interconnected (25, 29, 33) and a sensing device (13). The keys of a keybar actuator are all actuated by a common finger (45) in touch typing and therefore are not jointly actuated. Depression of one key causes the keybar actuator (11) to pivot and the sensing device (13) indicates which key is depressed depending upon the amount of keybar actuator rotation. Alternate sensing devices include individual contact switches (79-81) associated with each key.

Abstract: Disclosed is a data input keyboard comprising a plurality of keys which are arranged on a panel in the form of a matrix of "m" lines, "n" columns and each of the keys being provided with a reset member and a pusher coupled to a contact pair; a switch means provided with a plurality of contact pairs; and a rotation transfer mechanism incorporating an input shaft with a rotation member and "m" output shafts and mechanically coupled to the contact pairs of the switch means. A body of the contact pairs of all the keys defines an accurate channel of forming the codes of the characters assigned by the keyboard and a body of the contact pairs of the switch means defines a rough channel of forming the aforesaid codes. Each of the keys has the shape of a cylinder with faces on the peripheral surface thereof carrying the inscriptions of the characters, and is made rotatable around the axis of the cylinder.

Abstract: Generation of a character code for an alphabetic character is performed by depressing at least two keys in a sequence. The code is generated when the last key is depressed and the other keys in the sequence still are pressed, or when all keys in the sequence are released. Numerical character codes are generated by depressing only one key per character. A logic and storage means is provided having a number of registers, code converting tables and control circuits for storing the history of depressed keys and for generating character codes.

Abstract: Generation of a character code for an alphabetic character is performed by depressing at least two keys in a sequence. The code is generated when the last key is depressed and the other keys in the sequence still are pressed, or when all keys in the sequence are released. Numerical character codes are generated by depressing only one key per character. A logic and storage means is provided having a number of registers, code converting tables and control circuits for storing the history of depressed keys and for generating character codes.

Abstract: A keyboard which has support frame, or several rows of key units. Each key is movable out of an initial inoperative position by the tip of the index finger. The key of each key unit of a guide key row has a key rod and a top face on one end of the key rod. The tip of a finger rests at random pressure on each top face as, at the opposite end of the key rod, a non-depressable mounting is articulatedly lodged in the support frame and prevents downward depression of the key while permitting tilting toward one or more operational positions.Each key unit of the guide key row has a magnetic pole to exercise a determined initial attraction on the top face-bearing end of the key rod an doppose tilting movement of the key away from the attracting means, when this movement is initiated by a finger tip.

Abstract: A quasi-steno keyboard permits text entry into a computer either by standard letter-by-letter typing or by stenotyping. The keys of the keyboard are arranged in three parallel rows with the tops of the keys in the first and second rows being substantially coplanar and the tops of at least four keys in the third row being coplanar and lower than those in the first and second rows. The four keys in the third row are laterally centered in the keyboard and are positioned, with respect to the keys of the first and second rows, such that a thumb can rest comfortably on each of these keys when an index or other finger of the same hand rests on a crack between adjacent keys in the first and second rows.