Abstract: Systems and methods are involved with a case assembly a side; a cushion member including a side portion extending along a portion of the side, the cushion member including a first surface, a second surface, a first thickness extending a depth from the first surface to the second surface, and at least one trench having a depth from the first surface partially toward the second surface without penetrating the second surface. In addition, other aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.

Abstract: A shield for overlying a keypad such as a PIN pad. The shield 10 permits manual access to the pad 24 and comprised a screen 30 having a transverse direction and a longitudinal direction and formed from a transparent material through which in use the keypad is viewable by a user of the keypad only from within a limited angular range. The screen has an upper side 44 directed in use generally toward a user and a lower side 41 directed in use generally toward the keypad, the screen further having an upper series of transversely extending parallel opaque strips 45 and transparent gaps, and a similar lower series of strips 40 and gaps, which lower series is offset from the upper series so that, when viewed from above, the opaque strips of the upper and lower series overlap and block the view.

Abstract: A wipeable keyboard cover may include a flat, flexible membrane surrounded by a rigid frame that closely fits a keyboard assembly. The wipeable keyboard cover may be securely attached to the keyboard assembly and may be easily removed from the keyboard assembly by a user. The wipeable keyboard cover may prevent foreign matter from contacting the covered portion of the keyboard assembly while allowing easy operation of the keyboard assembly. The flat nature of the wipeable keyboard cover may allow the cover to be cleaned effectively while it is attached to a keyboard assembly without subjecting the underlying keyboard assembly to potentially harmful treatment.

Abstract: A keyboard overlay for use on a touch screen is disclosed, as well as novel key structures for use on overlays. The keyboard overlay and key structures have novel structures which can provide finger resting resistance, deceleration during actuation, pre-actuation cues, finger positioning cues, key identification cues, and other desired aspects of a keyboard optimized for touch typing. Methods for stowing and deploying the keyboard overlay to align with the virtual keyboard of a touch screen are also disclosed. The disclosed keyboard overlay can provide optimal touch typing characteristics for use on all known types of touch screens.

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention provides an automated transaction apparatus including: an operation unit; a peep preventing cover that is provided in the operation unit; a sensor that detects removal of the peep preventing cover; and a control unit that performs control such that a transaction of the automated transaction apparatus is paused in accordance with a detection result of the sensor.

Abstract: A shield for overlying a keypad such as a PIN pad. The shield 10 permits manual access to the pad 24 and comprised a screen 30 having a transverse direction and a longitudinal direction and formed from a transparent material through which in use the keypad is viewable by a user of the keypad only from within a limited angular range. The screen has an upper side 44 directed in use generally toward a user and a lower side 41 directed in use generally toward the keypad, the screen further having an upper series of transversely extending parallel opaque strips 45 and transparent gaps, and a similar lower series of strips 40 and gaps, which lower series is offset from the upper series so that, when viewed from above, the opaque strips of the upper and lower series overlap and block the view.

Abstract: A keyboard overlay for use on a touch screen is disclosed, as well as novel key structures for use on overlays. The keyboard overlay and key structures have novel structures which can provide finger resting resistance, deceleration during actuation, pre-actuation cues, finger positioning cues, key identification cues, and other desired aspects of a keyboard optimized for touch typing. Methods for stowing and deploying the keyboard overlay to align with the virtual keyboard of a touch screen are also disclosed. The disclosed keyboard overlay can provide optimal touch typing characteristics for use on all known types of touch screens.

Abstract: Remote control device (10) comprising a circuit board (140) with control inputs (46) arranged on one surface thereof (44); control elements (42) which, following an activating action performed by the user, activate one or more inputs (46) from among those present on said board (140), said control elements (42) being incorporated in a selection mask (30; 30x; 30y) arranged over said inputs (46) for selecting which inputs of the board (140) are activated by an activating action of the user.

Abstract: A keyboard is provided. The keyboard includes a main body, a numerical keypad, and a touchpad. A receiving space is defined on the main body for receiving the numerical keypad and the touchpad. The numerical keypad is pivotally attached to a first sidewall of the receiving space, and the touchpad is pivotally attached to a second sidewall of the receiving space.

Abstract: A control panel of the present invention includes a base and a mount mounted on the base and loaded with a display and devices to be operated by the operator of the apparatus. The base includes a support portion for supporting the mount. The support portion supports the front edge portion of the mount by causing it to slidably contact the front edge portion of the support portion in substantially the front-and-rear direction and supports the rear wall of the mount with its rear wall such that the rear wall of the mount is movable in the up-and-down direction and can be fixed in position in the same direction. The angle of the top of the mount is therefore variable without resorting to extra members for angular movement.

Abstract: A computer keyboard device comprising a decorative sealed vessel comprising a first liquid, a second liquid, and at least one structure. The structure is insoluble in both the first and second liquids, and floats on the first liquid. The first and second liquids are immiscible and the first and second liquids have densities such that the first liquid is beneath the second liquid. The structure can maintain its upright position and remain in suspension permanently. The decorative sealed vessel is an integral portion of the computer keyboard.

Abstract: A keyboard cover and copy holder is presented. The keyboard cover and copy holder has a top plate member having downward extending left and right side panels and a bottom plate member having upward extending left and right side panels. Each upward extending left and right side panel of the bottom plate member is pivotably engaged with each respective downward extending left and right side panel of the top plate member.

Abstract: An electronic digital controller, such as a load cell indicator, is disclosed in which a number of components, such as a circuit board, display, and keypad are placed within an enclosure, and the enclosure is bonded closed, such as using an adhesive, to render the enclosure watertight. The keypad is a touch sensitive, capacitive keypad with no moving parts, and it is housed behind a rigid panel. An optoelectronic transceiver allows for data exchange with an electronic memory device housed in the adhesively sealed enclosure and allows for data exchange and for updating or modification of software code housed therein. Other components, such as another circuit board, a power supply, and block connectors, are placed in an adjacent enclosure, and the circuit boards in the two enclosures are electrically connected. The power supply is preferably a potted AC power supply but may also include a battery.

Abstract: A dust cover for a computer keyboard has a rectangular plastic body and two cords. The dust cover can fit any computer keyboard and provide a convenient and reliable way to press keys on the keyboard while simultaneously protecting the keyboard from pathogens and other contaminants.

Abstract: A foldable keyboard having a plurality of folding keyboard sections. Each keyboard section includes a frame carrying a key set having a plurality of keys. The key set may be movable laterally relative to the frame. The frame with the key set is foldable with respect to an adjacent frame. The frame provides a self-contained enclosure for the keyboard assembly when fully closed. When opened, the keyboard assembly can be a full-size standard QWERTY keyboard.

Abstract: A functional and decorative key mask is disclosed that is printable and has a uniquely functional geometry for easy and clean removable attachment to the keyfaces of a keyboard or keypad. The materials and design combine to provide a durable and reusable key mask. In the preferred embodiment, the key mask is has a body and a tab extending outward, and a pressure sensitive adhesive adhered to the back surface. It is die-cut from a face stock that is attached by the adhesive to a coated release liner. Mask sets include several key masks having similar or individualized graphic illustrations that enable the user to make unique associations with the keys of the keyboard or keypad, and thus enhance their learning, skill, performance, and enjoyment of a standard keyboard or keypad, or one having specialized key assignments.

Abstract: Disclosed is a “keyboard overlay” that sits on top of a touch-sensitive display screen of a computing device. After aligning the overlay on the display screen, the user types on the overlay. When the user presses a key on the overlay, the pressure is transmitted to the display screen below. That pressure is registered by the display screen as a touch. The keyboard overlay is formed to provide tactile finger-position feedback so that a user can keep his fingers oriented properly over the keyboard. The overlay may be opaque with keycap information displayed in the key areas. The overlay may be transparent, allowing a user to see a virtual keyboard painted on the display screen below. The computing device can detect the presence and type of an overlay. Applications may respond differently to different types of overlays. Different applications may be invoked depending upon the type of overlay detected.

Abstract: A foldable keyboard having a plurality of folding keyboard sections. Each keyboard section includes a frame carrying a key set having a plurality of keys. The key set may be movable laterally relative to the frame. The frame with the key set is foldable with respect to an adjacent frame. The frame provides a self-contained enclosure for the keyboard assembly when fully closed. When opened, the keyboard assembly can be a full-size standard QWERTY keyboard.

Abstract: A foldable keyboard rack is provided which includes a key guard portion adapted to fit over a standard computer keyboard to prevent untimely depression of the keys by a book or other object and a palm rest portion designed to provide the user with an ergonomic hand and wrist position for typing. The key guard folds down over the palm rest portion. The palm rest portion may be used with the keyboard rack in its folded or open position. Hooks or other attachment means attach the palm rest portion to the keyboard.

Abstract: An input system that mounts over a portion of a keyboard, which system may include an input device corresponding to at least one keyboard key covered by the input system. The input device may comprise a key or other input mechanism easily accessible to the user, and at least one of the input mechanisms may functionally correspond to one of the covered keyboard keys. The input mechanisms may be conventional keyboard keys, buttons, touchpads, or any suitable input mechanism. The input system body may comprise a platform elevated over the keyboard, the platform adapted to support a mouse. Alternatively, the input system may comprise an input device that eliminates the need for a separate mouse. Such an input device may include one or more of a trackball, dials or wheels, buttons, digital tablet, touch screen, or any suitable mechanism for inputting information otherwise input by a mouse or other electrical input device. The input system may be integral with, or separate or separable from, the keyboard.

Abstract: A shield for protecting a keyboard assembly includes a one-piece resiliently flexible membrane having a generally planar base overlaying a deck portion of the keyboard assembly, and one or more raised bubbles formed in the membrane and configured to envelope an entire key array or separate or combined key clusters of the keyboard assembly. In a particularly preferred form, a raised bubble enveloping an alpha-numeric and format/command key cluster includes grooves configured to surround and form-fit only alphabetical, numeric, punctuation and symbol keys of the cluster. Thus, a shield adapted for use on the keyboard assembly selected from numerous keyboard assemblies having different key configurations is attained.

Abstract: A keyboard having a protective lid comprises a keyboard body, a linkage board and a lid. The keyboard body has an accommodation space on rear side thereof and the accommodation space has two pivotal holes on two lateral sides thereof. The linkage board has a front end pivotally connected to the keyboard body. The linkage board has a rear end pivotally connected to a front end of the lid such that the lid can be swung to a backside of the keyboard body and functioned as a mount of the keyboard body and the keyboard body is inclined to a specific angle.

Abstract: An external keyboard connected to a personal digital assistant (PDA) comprises a keyboard section, a cover including a first portion and a hinged second portion, and a connection port in the center of the hinge between the keyboard section and the cover, the connection port being capable of connecting to a connector of the PDA. A support member is formed at the hinge between first and second portions of cover opposite to an elastic restrain formed at the hinge of the first and the second portions of cover. The restrain is curved and is urged against one side the support member for fastening the support member at a first angle relative to the restrain in one position. Thus, first and second portions of cover are held at the same plane. In another position, second portion of cover is pivoted at a second angle relative to first portion thereof. One side of support member is pivoted to the same angle relative to restrain accordingly.

Abstract: A shield for protecting a keyboard assembly includes a one-piece resiliently flexible membrane having a generally planar base overlaying a deck portion of the keyboard assembly, and one or more raised bubbles formed in the membrane and configured to envelope an entire key array or separate or combined key clusters of the keyboard assembly. In a particularly preferred form, a raised bubble enveloping an alpha-numeric and format/command key cluster includes grooves configured to surround and form-fit only alphabetical, numeric, punctuation and symbol keys of the cluster. Thus, a shield adapted for use on the keyboard assembly selected from numerous keyboard assemblies having different key configurations is attained.

Abstract: A shield for protecting a keyboard assembly includes a one-piece resiliently flexible membrane having a generally planar base overlaying a deck portion of the keyboard assembly, and one or more raised bubbles formed in the membrane and configured to envelope an entire key array or separate or combined key clusters of the keyboard assembly. Thus, a shield adapted for use on the keyboard assembly selected from numerous keyboard assemblies having different key configurations is attained. In a particularly preferred form, a raised bubble enveloping an alpha-numeric and format/command key cluster includes grooves configured to surround and form-fit only alphabetical, numeric, punctuation and symbol keys of the cluster. The bubble over the alpha-numeric and format/command key cluster includes character inscriptions offset from key indicia to enable simultaneous viewing of each.

Abstract: An electronics device having a removable bezel to facilitate cleaning of a keypad structure. The electronics device includes a housing that defines and encloses an interior of the electronics device. Keys included in a keypad structure are formed on a surface of the housing in a manner such that spaces may exist between the keys and the housing. A pliable structure is positioned over and substantially conforms to the keys and the adjacent portions of the housing so as to cover the opening near the keys and to further seal the housing. A removable bezel covers the keypad structure, including at least a portion of the pliable structure. The bezel has openings through which the keys extend, permitting users to depress keys while the bezel is positioned on the electronics device. The bezel, in combination with the keys, provides a keypad surface that enables users to conveniently enter information into the electronics device.

Abstract: A computer keyboard enhancement kit consists of detachable key replacements made to be larger and to have more shapes and colors than the letter keys of a standard computer keyboard so as to lessen the level of difficulty for children of preschool ages in locating such keys on the keyboard as they work on educational programs. Each of these key replacements takes a specific shape and color, and displays a specific letter that is on the keyboard in either uppercase or lowercase form. The shapes and colors follow a specific pattern scheme wherein the letters of the same hand and row keys have key replacements with the same color but with varied shapes. To be in use, these key replacements are attached to the top surface of a transparent plastic jacket that goes with the kit, and are positioned on top of their corresponding letter keys on the computer keyboard.

Abstract: Disposable transparent covers for a computer keyboard that are adapted to be left on the keyboard for short periods of time so as to protect against diseases when the keyboard is being manipulated by laboratory and/or dental technicians and to protect against accumulations of dust and dirt that might incapacitate a computer. Preferably, the covers come in a package and are replaced after each patient. The covers may be detachably secured to the keyboard or generally envelopes same.

Abstract: A form factor for use in the manufacture of a portable computer includes a U-shaped member having at least two distinct elements attached together. In one form factor, the U-shaped member includes two distinct elements: a unitary wall element having a first wall, a second wall, and at least one spacing element to physically separate the first and second walls; and a base element attached to one end surface of the wall element. In another form factor, the U-shaped member includes three distinct elements: a first wall element; a second wall element; and a base element attached to the first and second wall elements. The form factors may also include bosses to facilitate the attachment of computer system components such as printed circuit boards, storage units, and battery units.

Abstract: A soft cover adapter for customizing and/or simplifying the use of a computer keyboard comprises an easily attachable soft cover made of cloth, vinyl, leather, or the like, configured in size and shape to cover a computer keyboard. The cover may be attached to the keyboard by means of elastic banding. A multiplicity of plastic discs are removably attached (for example, by hook and loop attachments) to the inside surface of the cover. Each of the plastic discs is removably positioned above a pre-selected group of keys on the computer keyboard. On the outer surface of the cover, an icon, such as a photo, drawing, letter, word, or other symbol is positioned above each disc so that when the icon is depressed, it will, in turn, depress the corresponding plastic disc, which, in turn, will depress one or more of the pre-selected group of keys beneath it.

Abstract: A handheld computer keyboard system for use in conjunction with small computerized apparatus such as Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) features a keyboard, a cover, and an I/O connector to allow a computerized apparatus to be connected to the keyboard. The system also features a retractable stabilizing leg for greater stability when the system is set on a flat surface. The system allows a user to input text and data into a device such as a PDA, which typically must be done with a stylus, with a more convenient keyboard. The cover for the system closes to protect the keyboard and provides a support easel for the PDA when the system is in use.

Abstract: In combination with a keyboard, a keyboard dust cover comprising a housing containing a spring-loaded roller, the housing being attached to a first wall of the keyboard, a sheet having a first edge attached to the roller, and a mechanism for securing the sheet in an extended position over the keyboard. Also, a keyboard dust cover comprising a housing containing a spring-loaded roller, a sheet having a first edge attached to the roller, and a mechanism for securing the sheet in an extended position over a keyboard.

Abstract: A keyboard shield and copy holder is presented. The keyboard shield and copy holder has a top plate member having downward extending left and right side panels and a bottom plate member having upward extending left and right side panels. Each upward extending left and right side panel of the bottom plate member is adjustably engaged with each respective downward extending left and right side panel of the top plate member.

Abstract: A keyboard cover of the present invention includes a cover holder removably mounted to one side of a keyboard. A flat plate is mounted on the cover holder and selectively rotatable toward the top of the keyboard for covering it or toward the bottom of the keyboard for covering it. A connecting device is rotatably connected to the cover holder at one end and rotatably connected to the plate at the other end for connecting the cover holder and plate. With this configuration, the keyboard cover is capable of selectively playing the role of a cover, a keyboard angle adjusting device or, when the keyboard is not used, a bookrest or a mouse table, as desired.

Abstract: An arrangement and method for increasing the cooling capacity of portable personal computers, particularly such as laptop or notebook computers, wherein the computer possesses a keyboard having the rear edge thereof hingedly connected with the bottom of an openable display unit or panel, and wherein at least portions of the computer electronics are housed in outwardly swivable or slidable compartment structure located above the keyboard so as to provide increased surface areas for dissipation of heat.

Abstract: An apparatus that dispenses disposable sanitary keyboard covers of a flexible transparent plastic film that is drawn across a key array and provides a sanitary cover that allows full use of the keyboard. When a subsequent user uses the keyboard, a new length of plastic film is drawn, and the old length of film is discarded. The apparatus includes a frame having a first tray holding a dispensing reel of plastic film at one end, and at the other end a second tray holding a take-up reel in a first embodiment, or rollers that direct the film to a slot in the outer wall of the tray with a cutting blade adjacent to the slot in a second embodiment.

Abstract: A protective cover structure specifically designed to overlie and at least partially cover a keyboard of a computer and including an overlying top portion having a nonplaner configuration. A front face of the cover structure has an open construction or configuration of sufficient dimension to allow the user hands clear access to the keyboard for manipulation thereof during normal operation of the computer. The protective structure is at least partially formed from transparent material to allow viewing of the keyboard as well as the hands of the user when the subject assembly is in its protective, overlying position.

Abstract: A Computer Desktop-keyboard Cover with built-in Screen Monitor Attachment is disclosed that could take the place of conventional CRT Monitors customarily associated with desktop workstations. Many such keyboards are entirely unprotected. The means described herein will (a) provide protection for all standard keyboards in use, and (b) the combined and compact desktop Keyboard-with-Monitor-peripheral may be stored anywhere when not in use. The Display Monitor utilizies LCD or other Flat-panel display technology. The attachment device is directly and independently connected electrically to the CPU or to the main Server-Interface in a Network environment. It is fitted with multi-media speakers and a floppy disk port. In one aspect, the attachment device is bolted to the keyboard by hinge-arm members. These rotating hinge-arms make it possible for the Cover and Monitor Device to be positioned in many different locations, on or behind the keyboard.

Abstract: A computer typing learning device includes a cover and a seat, and a key board combined electrically with with a screen disposed between the cover 1 and the seat. An electronic circuit board is provided under a base plate of the key board for arranging various circuits thereon for various functions to display typed letters on a exercise letter row of the screen to be compared with a reference letter row and a warning mark row to show which typed letter is wrong. The keyboard is structured as all the same as that for common computers. A solar cell module is also provided inside the cover, connected with a battery deposited in a battery chamber in the cover, and a power convert switch is fixed on the cover for selecting a power source AC or DC for the device.

Abstract: A remote control includes a cover plate formed of a single piece of rigid material. The cover plate is removably attached to the remote control and is adapted for preventing depression of a first set of buttons while permitting depression of a second set of buttons when attached to the remote. Fasteners such as Velcro are used to removably attach the cover plate to the remote control. Preferably, the cover plate is flat and comprised of metal or plastic so that it can be cost-effectively made and easily adapted for use with a variety of types of remotes.

Abstract: An improved portable personal computer preferably configured to facilitate outdoor field-use has an impact attenuating case and a sealed keyboard which facilitate use of the computer in harsh environments. Furthermore, the sealed keyboard assembly prevents any damage which might result from liquids migrating within the case and into the computer components.

Abstract: A decorative cover for computer keyboards having a covering material assembly (10) of textile fabric, leather, vinyl, or other covering material (12) sewn or otherwise fastened together, configured to conform to the general size and shape of a computer keyboard (22). The cover has a body covering portion (14) and a key covering portion (16). The body covering portion has an opening through which the keyboard keys extend. The body covering portion is held in place on the keyboard by elastic banding (18) and/or hook and loop fastening strips (20). The key covering portion overlays the keyboard keys and extends over and down the front and back sides of the keyboard lapping over the front and back sides of the body covering portion. The key covering portion is held in place by hook and loop fastening strips or other coordinated fastening devices.

Abstract: A keyboard training aid has a support resting on the keyboard around the text entry keys and an opaque cover pivotally mounted on the support. The cover extends over the text input keys so that they cannot be seen by a training operator. Two apertures in the top cover are aligned between the keyboard operator and the home keys in the center row so that the home keys can be viewed.

Abstract: A keyboard cover and copy holder includes a first plate member and a second plate member pivotally connected at one end to the first plate member. The second plate member pivots between a first position in which it and the first plate member have a flat configuration and a second position in which it and the first plate member lie at an acute angle.

Abstract: A dust cover assembly for a computer keyboard includes a shell body which is attached to a longitudinal side of the keyboard. A slit is longitudinally formed on a peripheral upperside of the shell body. A hollow spindle is rotatably mounted in the shell body. A plug is fitted in a first end of the spindle. A flexible screen has a first end attached to the spindle and has a distal end with an elongated slat mounted thereon. A first cap member is attached to a first end of the shell body. A rod has a first end securely fitted in the first cap member and has a second end mounted in the spindle through the plug. A torsional spring is rotatably mounted around the rod and has a first end securely attached to the plug to rotate therewith and a second end fixed to the second end of the rod. A second hollow cap member is attached to a second end of the shell body and has a slot formed in an upper side thereof.

Abstract: A cover apparatus including a transparent housing overlying a computer keyboard, wherein the cover apparatus includes a plurality of forward and rear side walls defining rows of openings, wherein each row of openings is arranged overlying rows of computer keys. The openings are provided with cover housings to selectively cover individual or the plurality of keys, wherein each of the plurality of keys of the computer keyboard is positioned within the openings to provide selective covering thereof to minimize inadvertent pressing of such keys in usage of the keyboard.

Abstract: A removable cover for keyboards for word processors, computers, typewriters and calculators has a lower surface and upper surface which are substantially flat. The lower surface has a plurality of recesses, shaped to conform to the upper portions of the keys. The recesses engage the upper key portions to prevent sliding of the cover along the keys. The cover can be flexible, such as of leather. The cover can be grasped by the fingers of a hand and easily removed from the keyboard to be stored or placed atop a desk. The periphery of the cover is of reduced thickness for neater appearance. The recesses can be of varying depth from the front to the rear of the recess, or can be of uniform depth, depending upon the slant of the keyboard and the relative height of the keys to one another. The cover can also be used as a mouse pad or can be written upon or have objects placed thereon when placed on a desk.

Abstract: A shielded keyboard comprising a sheet of flexible fine wire mesh material between an array of keyboard contacts and an apposed array of switching actuators.

Abstract: A unitary keyboard shield adapted to be attached to a piano of the type having a laterally extending gap, or slot in a vertical section located at the rear of the keyboard. The shield includes a rear section engageable within the slot for attaching the shield to the piano, and a cover portion adapted to interrupt a player's line of vision to at least a portion of the keyboard when the shield is so attached.

Abstract: A portable shield intended to block the student typist's view of the keyboard and cylinder is made of cardboard having creases for folding at convenient locations. One portion of the shield screens the keyboard while another portion screens the cylinder. A relatively long extension member is attached to one side of the keyboard portion, extends downwardly along one side of the typewriter and is folded to pass under the feet of the typewriter in order to hold the device in place. The keyboard shield portion is also flexibly attached to the top of the typewriter so that the operator can raise the keyboard portion simply by raising his wrists against the bottom of it. This will enable him to check the position of his hands on the keyboard.