Abstract: A controller with a plurality of tactile sensors and a method of fabricating the controller is disclosed. The controller may be used for one, two or three parameter control in applications requiring manual user control of parameters such as temperature, volume, speed, direction and cursor position on a computer screen. The controller comprises two or more tactile sensors and a computing means. The centers of the tactile sensors are positioned at angles about a common center point. The computing means determines a magnitude and a direction of a resultant force from all the tactile sensors, using the force applied to each tactile sensor and the angle at which the center of each tactile sensor is oriented about a common center point. The configuration enables sensing applied force in two or more directions at angles from a common center point. Another parameter may be controlled based on the total force applied to all of the tactile sensors of the controller.

Abstract: A link member consists of a set of frame bodies assembled in an X shape when seen from the side so as to be swingable each other. A base member is provided to support the link member. At least one of the link member and the base member is an elastic member which is interposed between a key top member and the opposed switch members. A springback force is obtained by the elastic member to restore the key top member and the link member to their original positions. Thus, the number of resin components is reduced. A push button switch reasonable in cost and low or short in size is provided.

Abstract: The invention includes a three-position switch having a keycap connected to a housing for pivotal movement, and slidable movement in a vertical direction. The keycap is connected to the housing so that the keycap may be rocked to a first position in which one end of the keycap is depressed closing a first circuit. The keycap may also be rocked to a second position in which a second end of the keycap is depressed closing a second circuit. The keycap may also be pushed downwardly so that both ends of the keycap are depressed closing the first and second circuits simultaneously.

Abstract: A display switch includes switch elements disposed on a display which is capable of electrically changing images displayed thereon. Above the switch elements are disposed a plurality of buttons formed of a transparent material and supported by a frame member. A depression is formed in each of at least two opposite side surfaces of each button, and the frame member has flange portions that engage with the depressions in order to limit movement of the buttons. Also, elastic members are disposed under the buttons in order to allow each button to move during operation while imparting a feel to a user and to automatically return the button to its original position.

Abstract: A dual action, convex disc push-button switch assembly providing tactile feedback to the operator. Each convex disc contact comprises four tabs, each tab of which is fitted and secured in the base of the switch assembly making the switch easy to assemble and operate reliably. The tabs of a first convex disc contact are positioned forty-five degrees relative to the tabs of a second convex disc contact. The switch is sealed thereby permitting various ways to secure the switch terminals to an electronic board.

Abstract: A switch panel for use in dispensing equipment which includes a switch plate having a plurality of switch positions with each having an area for receiving and mounting a first electrical switch component thereat, and at least one switch activating selector button having a second electrical switch component fixed thereto. Mounting means are provided for pivotally mounting a selector button at each selected switch position by pressing mounting ears on the selector button through appropriate slots in the switch plate until openings in the selector button are engaged by pivot pins in the switch plate, all without using any tools or connecting elements.

Abstract: A sheet-like switch is disclosed in which the migration of silver can be prevented without requiring the provision of an overcoat. An upper electrode sheet is formed by disposing upper contacts and upper conductive patterns electrically connected to each other on an insulating sheet. A lower electrode sheet is formed by disposing lower contacts and lower conductive patterns electrically connected to each other on an insulating sheet. The upper and lower electrode sheets are stacked on each other across a spacer film provided with a hole. The upper and lower contacts are placed to opposedly face each other within the hole, and the upper and lower conductive patterns located within the hole are extended to the exterior in different directions, so that the upper and lower conductive patterns positioned on the peripheral portion of the hole can be prevented from overlapping each other across the spacer film in the upward and downward direction.

Abstract: A computer keyboard 10 having a plurality of keys 18 at desired locations being supported above a support plate 20 having a plurality of apertures 22 at the desired locations. A membrane keyswitch assembly 24 is mounted on the support plate 20 having keyswitches at each desired location. The keys have key plungers 28 that move up and down in the support plate apertures 22. An elastomeric dome sheet 46 is mounted over the membrane keyswitch assembly 24 with individual elastomeric dome return springs for biasing the keys 18 to their up position. An air chamber 52 is formed beneath the support plate 20 extending between the desired key locations. An air-impervious elastomeric membrane 60 is sandwiched between the air chamber 52 and the support plate 20 forming a flexible upper wall that receives and engages the key plungers 28. The membrane 60 has individual pedestal portions at the key locations for engaging the plungers 28.

Abstract: Right and left handpieces have five manually operated control switches each and are pivotally connected, face-to-face, with contactors in each handpiece face contacting contacts in the other to provide a plurality of sets of discreet signals as the handpieces are pivotally repositioned.

Abstract: A portable information processing unit, such as a personal computer, has a keyboard in which the normal, operating height of key switches is reduced to a more compact, reduced height automatically when a cover of the unit is closed and is automatically reinstated to the normal operating height when the cover is opened. Each key switch has a key top, a base, an actuating mechanism connecting the key top to the base, an elastic member and a switching layer, the elastic member extending through an opening in the base and interconnecting the key top and the switch. Depression of the key top produces movement thereof in a depressing direction and a depression force transferred through the elastic member to the switch, switching same from an off to an on state; upon release of the key top, the elastic member returns the key top to the normal position.

Abstract: Disclosed are keyswitches and a keyboard assembly comprising a sheet member having a plurality of key faces fixed thereon in a conventional keyboard arrangement, a plurality of cutouts in the sheet member partially surrounding each key face, and a plurality of living hinges in the sheet member at one side of each key face, whereby the key face may be depressed, causing the key face to pivot about the living hinges to operate a corresponding set of electrical contacts, indicating operation of the key. A conventional rubber spring may transmit the pivot motion of the key face to the electrical contacts.

Abstract: An EL sheet diaphragm including a diffusion type EL sheet having a diaphragm portion exhibiting a dome shape and a flange supporting portion disposed about the outer circumference of the diffusion type EL sheet. The diffusion type EL sheet including a transparent film having an upper surface and a lower surface, a transparent electrode layer formed on the lower surface of the transparent film, a light emitting layer formed on the transparent electrode, a dielectric layer formed on the light emitting layer, a rear electrode layer formed on the dielectric layer, and an insulating layer formed on the rear electrode layer. The diffusion type EL sheet emits light from the diaphragm portion of the upper surface of the transparent film. The diffusion type EL sheet bows outwardly in an at-rest state such that the upper surface of the transparent film exhibits a convex shape, and bows inwardly when depressed for operation such that the upper surface of the transparent film exhibits a concave shape.

Abstract: A document interpreting system comprises a book having the co-ordinate array of a graphics tablet embodied in it, conveniently in the front cover and rear cover thereof, an electronics module comprising a microcontroller connected to the co-ordinate array, a pointer for pointing to arbitrary areas on an open page of the book, and a speech circuit for causing speech or other sounds to be emitted corresponding to the area of the page which is being pointed to.

Abstract: A switch knob 1 having an operation portion 2, a cam system 3, a driving system 4, a steel ball 5, and a spring 6. The cam system 3, which is made of a molded, light transmissive material, is insertion molded into the operation portion 2, which is made of an opaque material. The cam system 3 includes an integral indicator 31 having a projected portion 32. A designated symbol is formed by the projected portion 32, which is exposed through the operation portion 2. Since the cam system 3 attached on the back side of the operation portion is light transmissive, the cam system 3 does not cause any inconsistency in the light at the indication portion. In addition, the number of parts comprising the switch knob 1 are minimized, and it is possible to maintain the quality of the symbols for extended periods.

Abstract: A plane, mechanical keyboard comprises several main keys, each of which is surrounded by one or more secondary keys and is mechanically connected to at least one of these secondary keys to define a striking zone. Mechanisms interconnect the main keys and the secondary keys so that each main key, under the effect of a pressure, drives the neighboring secondary keys mechanically connected to this main key downwards and so that a pull-back force exerted on each secondary key exerts a corresponding pull-back force capable of drawing the neighboring main key back upwards when there is no pressure exerted on this neighboring key. This keyboard is designed, inter alia, to be integrated into pocket computer devices or pocket electronic devices or again into portable telephones.

Abstract: A variable rate pressure sensitive electrical device or switch. The switch includes a first substrate and a plurality of electrical circuit traces thereon. A first electrical trace is provided having a first set of raised contact features or bumps projecting from a prevalent planar portion of first electrical trace. At least a second electrical trace is provided having a second set of raised contact features or bumps extending above a planar portion of second electrical trace. The first and second electrical traces and associated raised contact features are constructed and arranged so that the height of the first set of raised contact features is greater than the height of the second set of raised contact features. A second substrate is provided with an electrically conductive element.

Abstract: A triangle shape 4-way switching button for entering alphanumeric data on a 10-key pad. Each key may be used to input four characters by pressing the center of the key or one of the three corners. Each stroke enters one character, alphabet or number. Thus, an ultraminiature hand-held computer or device can be developed or manufactured.

Abstract: A computer key includes a one-piece base plate which is punched to form left and right retaining guideways that are spaced from each other in a longitudinal direction of the base plate. The retaining guideways include left and right retaining portions which extend uprightly from the base plate, and left and right blocking portions which extend from distal ends of the retaining portions away from each other and substantially longitudinal to the base plate. The blocking portions have left and right widths defined in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction by front and rear left and right rough edges. A frame assembly includes first and second linking frames which are pivotally connected at intermediate portions thereof.

Abstract: Light-emitting diodes are positioned directly under each key of a multi-key flexible pad of a keypad assembly. Each of the light-emitting diodes is disposed within a cavity formed in the lower surface of a respective key whereby all of the light emitted by the diode is transmitted directly into the key. In one embodiment, the light-emitting diodes are mounted on a flexible film disposed between the flexible pad containing the keys and a flexible sheet having a plurality of raised domes. In a second embodiment, the light emitting diodes are mounted on the upper surface of a printed circuit board. The keypad assembly addresses the problem of low light transmission efficiency through light guides, or the use of individual optic fibers to illuminate each of the keys. Furthermore, the keypad assembly, by the elimination of light transmitting structures within the keypad assembly, enables the design of thin-section telecommunication instruments.

Abstract: A computer keyboard key switch including a bottom support board, a key base having a rubber cone, a membrane circuit retained between the bottom support board and the key base, a bridging device supporting plate supported on the key base around the rubber cone, and a key cap coupled to the bridging device supporting plate by a bridging device, wherein the bottom support board has two upright lugs inserted through parallel slots on the membrane circuit and the key base and defining a respective retaining hole; the bridging device supporting plate has two coupling tongues respectively forced into engagement with the retaining holes of the upright lugs of the bottom support board.

Abstract: Relatively moveable portions of a flexible printed circuit member are interconnected by a web that extends between the moveable portions and is disposed in a cavity within a hinge interconnecting separately moveable parts of a split keypad assembly. The web portion of the flexible printed circuit is folded so that it is coaxially aligned with the axis of rotation of the moveable portions of the keypad assembly. The design and arrangement of the flexible printed circuit member avoids bending the flexible printed circuit member about an axis perpendicular to the member when the keypad assembly is opened or closed, and provides a vertically assemblable structure that completely encloses the interconnecting web portion of the printed circuit member, thereby avoiding the need for external connectors between the moveable elements of the keypad assembly.

Abstract: A key base plate mounting a membrane sheet with a contact thereon is fixed to a keyboard substrate through a screw. A peripheral edge portion of the key base plate fixed to the keyboard substrate is opposed to a packing fixed to the keyboard substrate. An upper surface of the membrane sheet and the key base plate are covered with an oilproof sheet. A peripheral edge of this sheet is supported between the peripheral edge portion of the key base plate and the packing fixed to the keyboard substrate. When the screw is fastened, the oilproof sheet is pressed with strong force between the peripheral edge portion of the key base plate and the packing fixed to the keyboard substrate.

Abstract: A switch for making multiple contacts formed as an elastomeric molded body having a base with a ring of material molded therewith to the base, and attached to the base by a web. An interior cylindrical member is supported within the ring of material by another web. Electrically conductive media is formed on the ring and on the interior cylindrical member. The switch is mounted on a board having multiple stationary contacts that can be contacted by the conductive surfaces on the ring and the conductive surface on the interior cylindrical member.

Abstract: A key switch assembly includes a base board, a membrane circuit provided on the base board, an upright biasing member supported on the membrane circuit, a base plate, a scissors-type key cap support including first and second support levers, and a key cap. The first support lever is formed with an aligned pair of cylindrical outward pins. The second support lever includes parallel rods that are formed with an aligned pair of pin bores with downwardly opening entrances to permit extension of the outward pins fittingly and rotatably therein via the entrances so as to couple rotatably the first and second support levers at intermediate portions of the same. The second support lever is further formed with an engaging tab on the inner edge of one of the parallel rods. The first support lever is further formed with an engaging notch on one of the outer edges of the first support lever for receiving the engaging tab therein.

Abstract: A low profile and light weight keyboard for portable electronic devices, such as notebook computers having a dual scissor movement. In one embodiment, the movement comprises an inner 318 and outer member 333, which connect at four pivot points. The two scissors appear as adjacent portions of the inner and outer members which are connected at a pivot point 308, and connected to each other with "living hinges." 310 The inner and outer movement members are attached or bonded to the keycap 302 and base 312 with the living hinge 310.

Abstract: A low profile tactile switch including a conductive member having a dome profile and lead means, a conductive contact member having a contact and lead means and an insulating member arranged between the conductive member and the contact member but allowing contact between the members upon actuation of the dome profile, wherein the switch may be mass produced from rolls of flat material.

Abstract: An improved membrane switch includes multiple detents. A pair of electric circuits are completed by the membrane switch. The switch includes the pair of open electric circuits, three flexing areas, and two membrane contacts. Normally the flexing areas bias the membrane contacts out of contact with the electric circuits. When a first actuation force is applied to the membrane, the intermediate flexing area flexes allowing the first circuit to be complete by the first membrane contacts. When a second actuation force is applied to the membrane, the center and outer flexing areas flex allowing the second circuit to be completed by the second membrane contacts. The inventive membrane switch provides the operator with a clear indication and a detent feel for each of the two circuits.

Abstract: A keyboard switch having a dustproof and droplet-proof push-button includes an elastic tube having upper and lower open ends fastened to a slider capped with a keytop and a panel supporting the push-button, respectively, to prevent a dust or droplet of water from being sucked into a space under the slider connecting to an area where pressure sensitive electric switches are located. The elastic tube is collapsible telescopically when the keytop is pushed down, but recovering the original shape by its own elasticity when the pushing force on the keytop is removed. One embodiment of the present invention is one having another elastic member mounted between the slider and one of immobile members, which works predominantly in the final stage of the stroke of the keytop to protect the pressure sensitive electric switch from an excessive impact of tapping.

Abstract: A multi-pole switch assembly (100, 400) includes a housing (102, 402) having an opening (122) and includes a supporting substrate (116) positioned opposite the opening (122). A first switch (112), a second switch (112), and an elastomeric support (104) are positioned on the supporting substrate (116). An actuator (108) is supported by the elastomeric support (104) and includes a first latching element (126) and a second latching element (126) which secure the actuator (108) to the supporting substrate (116) within the opening (122). The first latching element (126) and the second latching element (126) enable motion of the actuator (108) in a direction substantially normal to the supporting substrate (116) for actuating the first switch (112) and the second switch (112), respectively.

Abstract: The double switch includes a core formed of insulating material and a connector formed of electrically conductive material. The connector extends along a front face of the core and has spring portions overlying a pair of isolated terminals secured on the opposite ends of the core. The connector includes a first pad lying in a plane common to second and third pads such that the switch can be mounted on a printed circuit board. By deflecting one or more of the spring portions into the second or third pad, an electrical circuit is completed between the first pad and the selected pad.

Abstract: An electronic book includes a cover, an array of membrane switches disposed in a membrane switch assembly attached to the cover, and a plurality of pages attached to the cover, each of the pages having on a first surface thereof an indicia located directly over one of the switches, respectively. An electronic module is attached to the cover and is electrically connected to the array of switches. The electronic module stores a plurality of addressable sound sequences. The membrane switch assembly includes a first layer of flexible sheet material, and a layer of switch electrode conductors on the first layer of flexible sheet material defining a plurality of pairs of switch electrode conductors, each pair including a first electrode conductor and a second electrode conductor, and a plurality of conductors for connecting the electrode conductors to the electronic module.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for inputting information to an electronic device using the primary digit and first and second ancillary digits of the operator's hand. In the preferred embodiment, the operator's index finger acts as the primary digit while the middle finger and thumb act as the first and second ancillary digits, respectively. The apparatus includes an interface surface having a selector pad divided into a plurality of selector pad switches. In the preferred embodiment, the nine selector pad switches are arranged on the interface surface according to a 3.times.3 array for activation by the operator's index finger. Located laterally and below the selector pad are two address switches capable of being selected by the middle finger and thumb of the hand. Using the two address switches, each selector pad switch located in the selector pad may be assigned up to four possible switch addresses. A microprocessor assigns a code element taken from a programmable code table to each address.

Abstract: A virtual touch screen switch includes a push window disposed over a display assembly. The transparent push window functions similar to a toggle switch, while enabling touch screen functionality. In a preferred arrangement, the push window is disposed in a display opening of an electronic apparatus and is pivotable between a neutral position and one or more actuating positions where an actuator mounted to the push window actuates a PCB switch. With this arrangement, function keys from the electronic apparatus can be eliminated with a toggle-type switch arrangement, thereby reducing the apparatus size while maintaining reasonable manufacturing costs.

Abstract: A keyboard assembly incorporating multiple lighting modalities is disclosed herein. In one lighting mode, discrete indicator lights are embedded in the actuator keys to signify the state of an associated function. In a second mode, a plurality of legends, each sufficiently proximate to an associated function actuator key, are illuminated. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, function indicator lights in the actuator keys provide real-time user feedback such that scrolling through numerous display screen menus to determine availability of a desired function may be eliminated. Further, the backlit actuator legends enhances usability of system in low light clinical environments during ultrasound exams making the function actuator keys easy to locate. In addition, the backlit legends increases the contrast in high ambient light environments for improved readability.

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 electroluminescent keypad, and an electroluminescent lamp, with integral shunts, for use in a keypad. The keypad includes a circuit board that includes a plurality of contact pairs adapted to complete circuits to perform keypad functions. An elastomeric sheet that includes a plurality of key elements overlays the circuit board. Each of the key elements is associated with one of the contact pairs. An electroluminescent lamp with a plurality of integral shunts corresponding to the contact pairs is positioned between the elastomeric sheet and the circuit board.

Abstract: A multi-stage switch with a common actuating element and at least two switch elements for making contact provides that the switch elements are disposed next to each other above contact elements of a circuit board which they bridge in the closed state. The actuating element for the switch is movably disposed above the switch elements in such a way that the switch elements respond sequentially when the actuating element is depressed. Such a multi-stage switch can be produced cost-effectively with simple structural means, can be universally used, is easy to operate, maintenance free to the greatest extent and operates dependably.

Abstract: An electrical switch assembly includes a printed circuit board having a planar switch pad thereon. An actuator is mounted for pivotal movement relative to the printed circuit board about a pivot axis spaced to one side of the planar switch pad. A planar switch contact on the actuator overlies the planar switch pad on the circuit board. The planar switch contact is disposed at a predetermined angle to the planar switch pad when out of engagement therewith in an inactive condition of the actuator, so that the entire surface of the switch contact engages the entire surface of the switch pad immediately upon initial engagement.

Abstract: A key assembly comprising a base; a manually operable key secured to, and mounted above the base by, a resilient key mat having an upstanding wall. The key is moveable against the resilience of the upstanding wall towards the base. A guide assembly extends between the base and the key to guide movement of the keys. A membrane is supported on the base and carries a pair of electrically insulated first contacts, each first contact of the pair being connected to a respective electrical track supported on the membrane and extending to a connection location. A second contact is provided on the underside of the key or the key mat and has a size and position such that movement of the key towards the base causes the second contact to engage both first contacts and thereby electrically connect the first contacts.

Abstract: A key switch for notebook computers, including a bottom frame having two pairs of upright lugs spaced near two opposite sides, a membrane circuit mounted on the bottom frame, a key cap, a rubber cone supported on the membrane circuit and compressed by the key cap to trigger the membrane circuit in producing an electrical signal, a first link having an annular base and two pairs of springy extension rods respectively extended from the periphery of the annular base at two opposite sides and respectively coupled to the key cap and the bottom frame diagonally, and a substantially U-shaped second link pivotably connected to the annular base of the first link at two opposite sides and coupled between the key cap and the bottom frame diagonally for turning relative to the first link to guide the movement of the key cap vertically.

Abstract: The present invention provides a keyboard for typewriters, computers, and similar machines with improved ergonomics of control and a lower overall profile for the keyboard without a reduction in the range of key travel. The keyboard of the present invention includes a support base with a plurality of key shafts protruding outwardly from the support base. The key shafts are angled relative to the support base, for instance at a substantially 45 degree angle, and slanted away from a user of the keyboard. A keycap with a key guide slidably disposed about each key shaft is included wherein each keycap has an angled travel axis longitudinally along the key shaft. A plurality of switching elements is coupled to the support base with a switching element disposed beneath each key shaft. The keycap is moveable down and toward the user along the angled travel axis to operate the switching element.

Abstract: A key switch for notebook computers, including a bottom frame having two pairs of upright lugs spaced near two opposite sides, a membrane circuit mounted on the bottom frame, a key cap, a rubber cone supported on the membrane circuit and compressed by the key cap to trigger the membrane circuit in producing an electrical signal, a first link having one end pivoted to the key cap and an opposite end coupled to one pair of upright lugs of the bottom frame by a slip joint, and a second link pivotably coupled to the first link in its middle and having one end pivoted to the key cap and an opposite end pivoted to the other pair of upright lugs of the bottom frame.

Abstract: A membrane switch including a plurality of upper dot-pads and a plurality of lower dot-pads is provided to enhance the operational sensitivity while avoiding unexpexted actuation of membrane switch is provided. The plurality of upper dot-pads are provided during the print process of the top switch-pad and distributed to surround the top switch-pad. A plurality of lower dot-pads corresponding the plurality of upper dot-pads are provided during the print process of the bottom switch-pad and distributed to surround the bottom switch-pad. Each of the plurality of upper dot-pads has a lower-edge and each of the plurality of lower dot-pads has an upper-edge. As the top membrane is free of an external force, the lower-edge of top switch-pad is spaced from the upper-edge of bottom switch-pad by a first dimension greater than a second dimension by which the lower-edge of each upper dot-pad is spaced from the upper-edge of each lower dot-pad.

Abstract: In a keyboard which drives membrane switches by selectively depressing key tops, hinge portions are formed integrally with a housing in an array of hinge receiving holes made therein in correspondence with a desired array of key tops, a top panel having openings corresponding to the hinge receiving holes is bonded to the top of the housing, and the key tops are each disposed to cover the corresponding opening and the entire length of the corresponding hinge portion and is fixedly engaged with the free end of the hinge portion through the opening. By the application of pressure to and its removal from each key top, the lower end of the free end of the corresponding hinge portion operates to make and break the underlying membrane switch.

Abstract: A rubber cone layer for use in a computer keyboard, having fine grains distributed over the top and bottom sides thereof to prevent sticking to the membrane circuit of the computer keyboard, and a plurality of rubber cones raised from the top side corresponding to the key switches of the computer keyboard for compression by the key switches to trigger respective contact points at the membrane circuit, each of the rubber cones having a downward plunger terminating in a conductive element and spaced above one contact point of the membrane circuit.

Abstract: A multi-stage electrical rocker actuated switch assembly is disclosed which basically consists of a rocker operating element which is pivotably mounted on a housing and four plungers which face the underside of the rocker operating element with one of their ends while the other ends engage with a movable contact part.

Abstract: A flexible-touch keypad (100) is backlit by an electroluminescent layer (118) that overlies an actuator layer (108) and a circuitry layer (102). The actuator layer (108) includes posts (112A) protruding through apertures (120) in the electroluminescent layer (118) and extending upward toward a translucent flexible surface layer (124). The flexible surface layer (124) is coated with an opaque layer (206), which is etched to form indicia (130). The protruding post (112A) is translucent and functions as a light pipe, directing light upward from the electroluminescent layer (118) and through the translucent surface layer (124) with a substantially uniform light intensity, the light being visible through the etched indicia (130). When a key (128A) on the surface layer (124) is depressed, a corresponding post (112A) is urged downward toward the circuitry layer (102). A conductive pill (116A) attached to the post (112A) contacts a switch area (104) on the circuitry layer (102), thereby completing a circuit.

Abstract: A control unit for controlling devices or assemblies comprises a plurality of control elements located on a control surface. These control elements are provided with correspondingly assigned symbols for visually displaying the function of the respective control element and can be adjusted into at least two positions. In order to make reliable control easier, even under unfavorable light conditions, the control elements or an area directly adjoining them are provided with means for distinguishing the respective control element haptically. The control unit is suitable in particular for controlling a heating and/or air conditioning system in a motor vehicle.

Abstract: A scissor mount for a large, multi-contact key of a keyboard, prevents key tilt upon off-center actuation of the key. Such keys are often lifted from immovable portions of keyboards and then remounted in order to change contacts that are activated by the keys. When this is improperly carried out, guide slits can become deformed and the entire apparatus becomes unusable. In the arrangement of this invention, scissor arms (7), whose guide pins (8) ride in guide slots (10) of fixed keyboard parts, are formed as springs, with ends of the guide pins being inclined for engaging and sliding over guide-slot walls during installation so that the scissor arms can spring inwardly until the guide pins snap into the guide slots. With this arrangement deformation of guide-slot walls is avoided and an easier mounting is made possible.

Abstract: A flat input keyboard for data processing machines or the like has the following successive layers, starting from the side facing away from the operation side: a supporting layer (10), an electric switching system (12, 16, 20) with electric contact spots that correspond to a keyboard pattern, a buffer layer (24) and a flexible elastic covering layer (26) provided on the operation side facing away from the electric switching system with a keyboard pattern (28). The supporting layer, the electric switching system, the buffer layer and the covering layer are interconnected at least along their circumference.