Patents by Inventor Kennard E. Nielsen

Kennard E. Nielsen has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Computer mouse with elastomeric dome switch
    Patent number: 6933925
    Abstract: A mouse or other hand-held computer pointing and/or input device is equipped with one or more elastomeric dome switches. Downward force upon the elastomeric dome switch causes a hollow portion to collapse and bring an electrically conductive surface into contact with open conductive leads, thereby closing an electrical connection. In alternate embodiments, a membrane switch and/or a noise producing device can be added.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: R. Thomas Gibbons, Kennard E. Nielsen, Matthew G. Pedersen
  • Keypad having optical waveguides
    Patent number: 6741189
    Abstract: A keypad includes a light emitting source, a light detector and waveguide assembly adapted to receive light from the light emitting source and having a plurality of waveguide branches adapted to conduct light to the light detector. A plurality of user actuated keys is provided. Each key includes a moveable engaging member disposed proximate a waveguide branch to engage the waveguide branch as a function of key operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: R. Thomas Gibbons, II, John M. Lutian, Kennard E. Nielsen
  • Keyboard having integrally molded keyswitch base
    Patent number: 6224279
    Abstract: An ergonomic keyboard includes a top case having a plurality of key planes that are non-parallel with one another. A plurality of keyswitch bases are positioned within respective ones of the plurality of key planes and are formed with the top case as a single, continuous piece of material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Kennard E. Nielsen, John M. Lutian, R. Thomas Gibbons, II
  • Keyboard
    Patent number: D442589
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Carl J. Ledbetter, Hugh E. McLoone, Jan Hippen, I-Chiang Sun, Kennard E. Nielsen
  • Portion of a keyboard
    Patent number: D450056
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Carl J. Ledbetter, Hugh E. McLoone, Jan Hippen, I-Chiang Sun, Kennard E. Nielsen