Abstract: A platform for data flow processing is provided. The platform, which can be a computing device includes one or more swappable pods or cards in one or more chassis, coupled through a module messaging interface network. Each of the one or more swappable pods or cards having one or more hardware modules or one or more software modules and one or more of the plurality of swappable pods or cards having a portion for user-definable hardware modules or user-definable software modules. The plurality of swappable pods or cards being user-configurable to implement data flow processing architectures.

Abstract: An electronic system and a control method thereof are provided. The electronic system includes a first device, a second device and a control device. The first device includes a first processor and a first control module, and the first control module is electrically connected to the first processor. The second device is detachably disposed on the first device. The second device includes a second processor and a second control module, and the second control module is electrically connected to the second processor. The control device is detachably connected to the second device, and the first device, the second device and the control device are coupled to each other.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to an immersive viewer system and viewer housing. The system comprises a viewer housing having first and second viewing apertures and a device holder. The system includes a first set of Fresnel lenses in-line with the first viewing aperture and a second set of Fresnel lenses in-line with the second viewing aperture. The system may include a computing device having a generally rectangular profile with a narrow depth configured to be supported in the device holder such that a display screen of the computing device is directly viewable through the first and second viewing apertures. The first set and second set of Fresnel lenses bend a two-dimensional (2D) image displayed by the display screen to fully cover 180 degrees of a human field-of-view. The first and second sets of Fresnel lenses are configured to cause the 2D image to appear as a three-dimensional (3D) image.

Abstract: An information processing device includes a touchscreen that includes a first surface that outputs images and detects an input to the first surface, a sensor that detects whether a switching device is mounted an the touchscreen, and processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to control a display state of the touchscreen based on a detection result of the sensor so that the touchscreen outputs in a first display mode when the switching device is not mounted on the touchscreen, and the touchscreen outputs in a second display mode when the switching device is mounted on the touchscreen.

Abstract: In an aspect of the disclosure, a method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be a service processor. The service processor receives a KVM console flow from a host. The service processor redirects the KVM console flow to a first destination console. The service processor redirects a video stream, without a keyboard stream and a mouse stream, of the KVM console flow to a second destination console. The service processor detects that the first destination console is disconnected from the service processor. The service processor invokes a privilege-checking event at the host.

Abstract: Example embodiments are directed to circuit boards, connectors, cases, circuit board assemblies, case assemblies, devices and methods of manufacturing the same, which are common to at least two different form factors. In an example embodiment, the SSD includes a circuit board that is smaller than a case, and the circuit board is secured to the bottom surface of the case by the securing element. The securing element is spaced apart from edges of the case to allow using a circuit board that is smaller than the case.

Abstract: In a gaming system to progress a battle game using game progression information in one gaming device and another gaming device, a controller of the one gaming device allows a storage unit to store the game progression information read by a reader and identifies a detected finger motion pattern. When the finger motion pattern coincides with a finger motion pattern for input in the stored game progression information, the controller allows at least part of the game progression information to be transmitted toward the other gaming device through a communication unit to be used for the progress of the game in the other gaming device. The controller acquires the game progression information in the other gaming device through the communication unit and allows the progress of the battle game using the acquired information.

Abstract: Apparatus including: a face including a first surface electrode and a second insulated surface electrode; and a controller configured to apply a time varying potential difference between the first surface electrode and the second insulated surface electrode and configured to control at least the time variation in the potential difference.

Abstract: A keyboard sled adapted to communicatively interact with a portable computer system. In one embodiment, the keyboard sled is comprised of an integral receiving portion adapted to mechanically and electronically receive a portable computer system. An interface connector is disposed within the receiving portion and adapted to provide a communicative link between the keyboard sled and a portable computer system, when a portable computer system has been inserted in the receiving portion. The keyboard sled further has at least one mounting hook disposed within the receiving portion for providing positive retention of a portable computer system when coupled with the keyboard sled. A keyboard portion also present on the keyboard sled and also coupled with the interface connector provides input keys. The keyboard sled is also comprised of an integral data storage access slot which is adapted to provide access to a data storage device receptacle of the portable computer system.

Abstract: Apparatus including a first surface electrode and an arrangement of second insulated surface electrodes; a display configured to display an image; and a controller configured to apply a potential difference between the first surface electrode and the arrangement of second insulated surface electrodes and configured to control at least a variation in the applied potential difference in dependence upon the displayed image.

Abstract: Apparatus including a first surface electrode and an arrangement of second insulated surface electrodes; a display configured to display an image; and a controller configured to apply a potential difference between the first surface electrode and the arrangement of second insulated surface electrodes and configured to control at least a variation in the applied potential difference in dependence upon the displayed image.

Abstract: A positioning mechanism (100) configured for positioning a keypad (20) on a portable electronic device includes a plurality of retainers (10). Each retainer includes a main portion (11) and a fixing unit (12) formed on the main portion. The main portion includes an engaging surface (112) and an opposite latching surface (114). A protrusion (1121) is formed on the engaging surface, a first positioning surface (1122) corresponding to a first portable electronic device (30) is formed on the protrusion. The retainer is mounted to the keypad via the fixing unit.

Abstract: A positioning mechanism (100) configured for positioning a keypad (20) on a portable electronic device includes a plurality of retainers (10). Each retainer includes a main portion (11) and a fixing unit (12) formed on the main portion. The main portion includes an engaging surface (112) and an opposite latching surface (114). A protrusion (1121) is formed on the engaging surface, a first positioning surface (1122) corresponding to a first portable electronic device (30) is formed on the protrusion. The retainer is mounted to the keypad via the fixing unit.

Abstract: An apparatus has a keyboard panel with a QWERTY array of alphabetic key actuation indicia. The apparatus further has a QWERTY array of keys that are free of alphabetic key actuation indicia, and are located adjacent to corresponding alphabetic key actuation indicia on the keyboard panel. Other parts of the apparatus include an output device responsive to actuation of the keys, and a processing device operatively coupled between the keys and the output device. Summarized alternatively, the apparatus includes a keyboard with keys arranged in arcuate horizontal rows. The keys in each row have centerlines projecting radially from a respective common centerpoint.

Abstract: An electrical switching apparatus configured for low power operation includes: (a) a plurality of switching devices arranged in a switching array permitting sensing of individual switching events by selected switching devices; (b) a switching control device coupled with the switching array that provides power to the switching array for sensing and for a first time interval after a first switching device is actuated. The control device identifies the first switching device during the first time interval and interrupts power to the switching array after the first time interval until the first switching device is deactuated. The control device provides power to the switching array for a second time interval after the first switching device is deactuated. The control device determines during the second time interval whether a second switching device other than the first switching device is actuated.

Abstract: A keyboard has a processor, a scan matrix coupled to the processor, a first set of keys coupled to the scan matrix, a logic control circuit, and a second set of keys coupled to the logic control circuit. The processor decodes the identity of a pressed key from the second set of keys via the logic control circuit.

Abstract: This apparatus is an add-on computer component peripheral for existing computer systems. The mouse/keyboard capture recorder (MCR) is capable of recording keyboard keystrokes, mouse coordinate movements, and mouse actions such as left, middle and right mouse clicks and/or mouse drag movements. The MCR has external cables that connect inline to a host computer's external keyboard and mouse without modification on the host computer system and its peripherals. The MCR apparatus operates independently of the hardware and software that is installed on a host computer system. A microprocessor monitors and controls all operations and stores mouse actions and keyboard actions in non-volatile memory during the MCR's record mode. In the MCR play mode, the apparatus will transmit the stored keyboard/mouse data by sending electrical signals representing the stored data to a host computer system via the mouse port and the keyboard port.

Abstract: An auxiliary keyboard has a first input mode and a second input mode and comprises an input mode switching key, a mode switching unit for switching between the first input mode and second input mode at each depression of the input mode switching key without posting the depression to a computer, a key code sending unit for sending, when the key of the auxiliary keyboard is depressed, a predetermined first key code corresponding to the depressed key of the auxiliary keyboard either in the first input mode or in the second input mode, and a mode correcting unit for correcting, when the input mode of the main keyboard is switched into the numeric data input mode, the numeric data input mode to the character data input mode.

Abstract: An electronic product, such as a personal computer or electronic organizer with an open-surfaced receptacle or slot is described. An electronic product incorporating such a receptacle is able to accommodate an insertable electronic module, such as a PCMCIA card, that is thicker than could be incorporated in the receptacle if a portion of the inserted module were not permitted to protrude through the receptacle along the open surface. One embodiment of the invention includes a display, a platform, circuitry, a keyboard, the receptacle, an electrical connector in the receptacle, protective sliding shutters and a door. The platform includes at least two opposing surfaces and at least one side. The inserted card is connected to the circuitry in the platform via the electrical connector located in the receptacle. The keyboard is connected to one of the opposing surfaces and is also coupled to the circuitry.

Abstract: An external keyboard apparatus is fitted to rest above the embedded keyboard of a general purpose portable microcomputer. In one embodiment an external keyboard housing is molded to define a cavity for receiving at least a portion of a keyboard compartment of the portable computer. In another embodiment, an external keyboard stand supports an external keyboard to define the external keyboard apparatus. A first connection is established between the external keyboard and keyboard stand to secure the external keyboard to the stand.

Abstract: A compact electronic apparatus comprises a main unit having at least a power supplying section and a display, at least one of several processing units having a key input section and a memory adapted to be removably attached to the main unit and a connecting section for connecting one of said processing units to the main unit. Each of the processing units has a different function.

Abstract: An adapter device, for use with a standard personal computer having affixed thereto a keyboard, is comprised of a molded rigid panel which is provided with a plurality of over-sized keys. The adapter is intended to simplify standard personal computer input methods by providing an input devise with a fewer number of Adapter keys than a standard keyboard. The adapter keys are also larger than standard keys. Raised spines on the under side of the adapter secure the adapter to a standard computer keyboard. Each of the keys on the adapter are attached via hinge along one side of the key. Depressing any of the adapter keys will cause that adapter key to contact the keys of host keyboard in a prescribed manner. An accompanying simplified software program is installed on the personal computer to work in conjunction with the adapter.

Abstract: An integrated adjustable data entry keyboard. A divided keyboard arrangement comprises first key field and second key fields pivotably mounted upon a stationary base. The first and second key fields substantially comprise a keyboard arrangement. A space bar is separately attached to the base and occupies a lower keyboard region centrally disposed between the first and second key fields. The space bar is enlarged so as to remain within the radius of a user's thumb's "strike zone" when a user adjusts the first and second key fields. A synchronizing coupling means may be employed to ensure complimentary movement of the first key field relative to the second key field and thereby relative to the user's hands and wrists, even if only one of the individual key fields is pivoted.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing access to a computer via two or more alternative keyboard/monitor pairs. The invention comprises a switching box connected between the keyboard/monitor pairs and the computer for switching access between the keyboard/monitor pairs. Access is switched by depressing a key on the keyboard which a user wants to use. An automatic toggling function is executed which switches control to the keyboard upon which a key has been depressed.

Abstract: A pocket calculator for use by two persons simultaneously comprises two keyboards and four displays so that each user can monitor entries and calculations by the other. The calculator is useful in a variety of situations including financial negotiations, crossing checking of calculation, and in a pupil teacher situation.

Abstract: An overlay is described for a keyboard wherein the keyboard includes a plurality of convex, depressible keys that extend above openings in a panel surface, each key having an associated function indication. The overlay comprising a molded plastic, planar member sized to cover substantially the extent of the keyboard, and having both keyboard and user sides. The keyboard side exhibits a plurality of waffle-like convex chambers created by orthogonal intersecting walls, each convex chamber surrounding a corresponding key and having a resilient ceiling member positioned over the key. When the resilient ceiling member is depressed by a user, the underlying key is likewise depressed and actuated. The user side of selected ones of resilient ceiling members, indicate modified key functions.

Abstract: A panel switch according to the present invention has a switching unit comprising a plurality of switches which are not provided with individual click means and at least one click mechanism for the switching unit. Because the switching unit does not incorporate individual click mechanisms, the panel switch can be formed into a small size. In addition, by the integration of the provided click mechanism, the degree of freedom on the design of the panel switch is enlarged, and a small-sized panel switch which is excellent in switching feeling can be offered.

Abstract: This device is an add-on accessory for existing personal computer systems. This device is a user definable, keyboard MACRO storage device which operates independently of the hardware and software installed in the computer, plugs into the keyboard line of the computer and stores a plurality of different keyboard MACROs, that is, keyboard keystroke sequences. internally, the device contains a dedicated microprocessor which monitors and controls all operations. It stores the MACROs, selected by the user, in its non-volatile memory and associates them with user-defined commands. The commands are then subsequently executed via the device's keypad. The invention may be installed permanently in the keyboard line without taking any precautions to save the MACROs when the computer is powered down or, in the alternative, when the device is removed from the keyboard line. The device performs detailed internal self checks in order to insure its correct operation.

Abstract: A compact electronic apparatus comprises a main unit having at least a power supplying section and a display, at least one of several processing units having a key input section and a memory adapted to be removably attached to the main unit and a connecting section for connecting one of said processing units to the main unit. Each one of said processing units to the main unit. Each of the processing units has a different function.

Abstract: The module has a top (4) which is inclined with respect to an opposite bottom surface (4a) and bears display means (8) and data insertion means (9). The top (4) comprises a removable panel rotatable through 180.degree. with respect to the casing, which in turn can be rotated through 180.degree. so that the display means (8) and insertion means (9) are always disposed in the correct direction as regards the user.

Abstract: Arrow keys on the keyboard of a desktop computer, computer terminal or displaywriter which control the movement of a cursor are actuated by a manually operated mechanical device resting over the keyboard. The device entails a central control shaft and a plurality of fingers extending outward radially from the shaft toward each of the arrow keys, and preferably toward adjacent keys as well. The control shaft and fingers are pivotally mounted and arranged such that when the control shaft is pivoted in the direction of desired motion of the cursor, the appropriate finger is engaged by the control shaft and pivots downward to depress the corresponding key.

Abstract: A checkout counter includes an optical scanning system mounted therein and includes a cover member positioned in the top surface of the counter having an aperture through which the scanning system will scan a coded label on the merchandise item positioned adjacent to the aperture. A support member mounted on a rail portion of the checkout counter adjacent the cover member supports a writing pad, a keyboard, a display member and a card reader enabling a customer to conveniently observe the price of the item being scanned, and the amount of money due for the purchased items, when writing a check for the amount due, or when using a credit card or a debit charge to pay for the purchased merchandise items in response to information displayed in the display member.

Abstract: A computer system has a plurality of independent input peripheral devices which create a more user-friendly and versatile way to interact with the computer. An alphanumeric keyboard, a numeric keyboard, a function keyboard and a Mouse pointing device all communicate input data to the computer. The computer is simultaneously responsive to the data communicated by all of the input peripherals. The user may select one or more of the input peripherals to operate simultaneously to effect efficient data input. The input peripherals may be connected to the computer with cords, or may be operated in a cordless mode. The computer maps the data generated by the three keyboards into the same symbol table so that it need not determine where the data originated. Three of the input peripherals are disposable into cradles defined in a housing, while the alphanumeric keyboard is disposable into a cavity defined within the housing.

Abstract: A method of manipulating a calculator comprises steps of selecting a desired instruction card, associating/attaching the instruction card to the calculator, and manipulating the special function keys according to the instructions. A set of auxiliary cards, having manipulation instructions, formula/equations, and manipulation principles printed thereon, can be attached to the calculator for achieving the method of manipulation.

Abstract: An auxiliary keyboard of generally U-shaped configuration for clamping onto a stand-alone computer keyboard. The auxiliary keyboard has a membrane provided with a series of touch-sensitive areas for enabling operator input of special functions into an associated computer. The auxiliary keyboard is provided with a removable designation strip having specially imprinted function designating areas.

Abstract: A joystick attachment for a computer keyboard which includes a bracket on which is supported a housing for a joystick assembly, the bracket being detachably mounted on a computer keyboard having a plurality of keys arranged in a rectangular array with the joystick assembly in over lying, spaced-apart relationship with the array, the joystick assembly including an upstanding handle projecting upwardly through an opening in the housing and supported on the bracket for universal pivotal movement together with a plurality of circumferentially spaced actuating arms each operatively associated with one of said keys and movable selectively by the handle against a yieldable member from an inoperative position into an operative position into an operative position for depressing engagement by the arm with an associated key in the array.

Abstract: A wrap-around auxiliary keyboard having (1) housing, (2) keys positioned in the housing and (3) circuitry means in the housing. The housing has a base and at least one extension extending from the base. The base and extension(s) are shaped and positioned with respect to each other so as to be able to wrap-around a primary keyboard.

Abstract: In an arrangement of two keyboards or other lamellar input/output devices for a computer or telecommunications terminal, one keyboard is integral with a cabinet of the terminal and the other keyboard normally fits within a housing in an undersurface of the cabinet and is masked by the integral keyboard. To enable withdrawal of the keyboard housed within the housing for use, a rear part of the cabinet undersurface is configured to allow the cabinet to be tilted bodily backwards to allow access to the keyboard. This is then pulled from under the integral keyboard and the cabinet is returned to its stable position. The keyboard housed within the housing is returned to its stored position in a converse manner.

Abstract: A computer desk may be utilized with computer keyboard terminal equipment or other devices requiring manual manipulation by a user. The desk permits the efficient support of such devices without sacrifice of the desk top working surface available to the user. The computer desk provides a support surface immediately below the work surface of the desk top. This support surface extends toward the desk-user a greater distance than does the desk top work surface. Thus, there is no interference between the desk top work surface and the user's access to equipment emplaced upon the support surface. An extension of the support surface to the side provides additional support areas for associated computer devices or the like without sacrifice of desk top work surface area. Storage areas beneath the desk top work surface and the support surface are provided to store materials and devices of use to a user of the computer desk.

Abstract: A computer interface console includes a cathode ray tube display, an operators keyboard, and an engineers keyboard. The engineers keyboard is so mounted that it may be moved to a position in front of the console in substantial alignment with the cathode ray tube and the operators keyboard when it is desired to make changes in the computer data base. At other times, the engineers keyboard is moved to a retracted position below the work space of the console, under the operators keyboard. In that retracted position, the work space is clear and uncluttered by the engineers keyboard. Additionally, with the engineers keyboard in the retracted position, it is unobstrusive and unavailable to unauthorized operators. Thus the probability of inadvertent or unauthorized manipulation of the engineers keyboard is greatly reduced.

Abstract: Additional attachment for key operated machines comprises a frame which covers the keyboard and which holds the desired entire number of symbols. The frame has the shape of a perforated plate which is fixed to the keyboard. Additional keys are located in the perforations of the plate and are in alignment with the keys of the key operated machine. The cover plate is placed in a detachable manner on the surface of the perforated plate. The cover plate is perforated in agreement with the perforations of the first plate and is equipped with the desired symbols.

Abstract: A data entry terminal has a base unit and keyboard unit which can be assembled to provide an integrated configuration or separated to provide a distributed configuration. No tools are required. The base unit has a recess with vertical guides and a protruding electrical connector providing an input path to the device electronics. The keyboard unit has complementary guides and a connector which mates with the base unit connector when the keyboard unit is slipped into place along the guides. The terminal is readily converted from an integrated configuration to a distributed configuration by removing the keyboard unit from the base unit, adding an auxiliary cable to carry signals between the keyboard unit connector and the base unit connector and concealing the base unit recess with a filler panel having the same guide structure as the keyboard unit.

Abstract: A low cost, self locating auxiliary keyboard assembly is disclosed for changing the key configuration and classification of the keyboard of a data terminal device, the assembly including a cover member having a plurality of apertures which overlie associated control keys on the keyboard of the data terminal device. A classification indicia card having a plurality of predetermined positioned apertures is placed on the cover member, the apertures in the indicia card overlying certain of the apertures in the cover member to allow a removable auxiliary key member to be inserted within the aligned apertures of both the indicia card and the cover member to engage the top portion of the associated control key on the keyboard of the data terminal device for operation thereby.

Abstract: The system responds to signals from a weight computer to depress selected keys on the postage metering machine keyboard. A solenoid is associated with each key. The solenoids are mounted on a carriage for movement toward and away from the keyboard. Spring bias and weight forces the carriage toward the keyboard. Energized solenoids hold an engagement tip extended so that when the carriage is released toward the keyboard, the carriage force will depress the selected key. The engagement tip on unenergized solenoids contact the key but the solenoid shaft moves upward into the solenoid without depressing the key.

Abstract: Actuator for use with a push-button keyboard in which the keys are arranged in an array of intersecting rows and columns. A single solenoid is provided for each row and column, and means operated by the solenoids causes the key to be depressed at the intersection of a row or column for which the solenoids are energized.

Abstract: In order to adapt a general-purpose calculator to specific tasks, the keyboard of that calculator is covered by a mask including a resilient membrane overlain by a rigid panel having cutouts registering with keys whose function is to be preserved. The cutouts receive extension keys glued or otherwise fastened to the membrane, depression of any extension key operating the underlying original key. The functions of the operative keys can be modified, in accordance with the contemplated use, by insertion of a stored-program cassette associated with the particular mask employed.

Abstract: A lightweight, somewhat book-shaped control unit having displays, signal lights, data entry keys, and control keys disposed in a panel has one side edge of the case rounded to permit holding in the hand in a fashion that allows pressing of a data entry key with the thumb of the same hand, there being a hand strap to assist in holding with one hand, the strap having its upper end attached to the case parallel to the edge of the case and its lower end attached to the case perpendicular to the edge of the case.

Abstract: An improved data terminal utilizing tactile switch assemblies with specialized sound apertures provide reduced panel space requirements and indirect sound paths for miniature electronic apparatus. A maximum number of switches can be accommodated on the instrument panel with no separate speaker/microphone grille required. Non-aligned sound apertures provide maximal weather protection for speaker and microphone mounted behind the switch assembly panel. The switch assembly design seals off the remainder of the unit from weather or dust damage.

Abstract: A low cost auxiliary keyboard is disclosed which is mounted on the keyboard of a data terminal device comprising a cover member having an array of auxiliary control keys which overlie and engage associated control keys on the keyboard of the data terminal device. Sealing means are mounted in the edge of the cover member preventing liquids from entering the terminal keyboard. The auxiliary control keys are constructed to provide a sealing environment on the cover member. A shroud secured to the cover member contains any liquid spilled on the auxiliary keyboard. An opening in the shroud drains the liquid from the shroud and away from the auxiliary keyboard. Means are provided to releasably secure the cover member to the terminal keyboard to allow the interchanging of auxiliary keyboards to meet changing business conditions.

Abstract: A data processing console having a rotatable keyboard.