Abstract: A method for detecting when a user is typing with excessive force on a keyboard is disclosed. First, the force applied by the user on the keyboard is measured and detected during a first period of time, and the normal level of force applied by the user is determined. Next, the force applied by the user on a keyboard during a second period of time is measured and detected. It is then determined whether the force applied by the user during the second period of time is greater than the normal level of force, and if so, the user is warned and provided with feedback to adjust the level of force being applied to the keyboard.

Abstract: A method of obtaining a second function from keys on a standard QWERTY configured computer keyboard that have only a first function when struck individually is disclosed. First, the force applied by the user on the keyboard is measured and detected during a first period of time, and the normal level of force applied by the user is determined. Next, a second function actuating force which is greater than the normal force applied by the user is selected, and the force applied by the user on a keyboard during a second period of time is measured and detected. It is then determined whether the force applied by the user during the second period of time is greater than the second function actuating force, and if so, a computer operatively coupled to the keyboard is caused to perform a second function associated with the key. Otherwise, the computer performs the first function associated with the key.