Abstract: A hand-held electronic device has a keyboard with a plurality of keys, each key having a substantially flat contact surface extending to the sides of each key. One of the sides of the key is beveled.

Abstract: A portable computer is disclosed. A triple-hinged supporting assembly, which is employed to connect a display unit with a mainframe unit in the portable computer, can easily change various operation positions of the display unit and even rotate 180° to horizontal, so as to fill different requirements of a user.

Abstract: A miniature keyboard wherein the keys are arranged in a way to improve data entry and decrease the chance of depressing multiple keys at a time. Accordingly, the height of the keys are patterned to decrease the chance of multiple key depressions thus increasing the accuracy of data input into the personal digital assistant. In one embodiment, the height of the keys is alternated down the individual rows of keys. In another embodiment, the height of the keys is alternated across individual columns of keys. Similarly, in another embodiment, the heights of the keys are arranged in a checkered pattern on the keyboard. In addition, another embodiment staggers the heights of the keys and incorporates embodiments mentioned above. By incorporating different key arrangements and alternating the height of the keys, key differentiation, key navigation, and data input accuracy is greatly improved due to the improved tactile feedback provided by the miniature keyboard.

Abstract: The present invention relates to intuitive based control elements and interfaces and devices using said intuitive based control elements. In certain embodiments, machine interfaces such as remote control devices for operation of various devices are provided. More specifically, machine interfaces according to embodiments of the invention herein include one or more control elements in the form of shapes and/or positioned indicia to facilitate operation by users. Control elements provided herein having intuitive shapes and/or positions described above as associated with the man-machine interfaces may also be provided integral with various devices. For example, personal electronic devices, personal care devices, personal healthcare devices, communications devices and personal comfort devices may benefit from control elements having intuitive shapes and/or positions associated with the function as described herein.

Abstract: A computer cursor control system (10) including a foot operated cursor control device (16) connected to a Central Processing Unit (CPU) (12). The cursor (20) is positioned by the operator (18) by depressing a left pedal (24), a right pedal (26), or both. Reverse movement is provided using a left or right reverse button (28, 30) on a keyboard (22). Response sensitivity of cursor (20) movement is provided in a control window (40), with individual left and right pedal controls (42 and 44).

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an input apparatus and input key capable of reducing the number of operations on the input key for input of symbols and permitting a user to designate a symbol to be inputted, by a simpler operation. An input key 10a to which a plurality of symbols or marks are assigned, has a key top 30a to be pushed, a sensor part 32 for detecting a push position on a surface of the key top 30 by a finger or the like used to push the key top 30a, a moving direction detector 34 for detecting a change of the push position of the finger or the like detected by the sensor part 32 and for detecting a moving direction of the finger or the like during movement thereof on the surface of the key top 30, and a switch 40a to change a state with a push on the key top 30, and has a converter 50 for converting a state of the switch 40a and the moving direction detected by the moving direction detector 34, into symbol information.

Abstract: The invention provides a message generating apparatus for an electronic equipment. The message generating apparatus includes a look-up table, a first/sucked device, a pressure-sensing device, a processing module, and an interface module. The first/sucked device accommodates a liquid. The pressure-sensing device is installed inside or outside the first/sucked device. The processing module is electrically connected to the look-up table and the pressure-sensing device respectively. The interface module is electrically connected to the processing module, and capable of connecting to an input port of the electronic equipment. The pressure-sensing device senses a pressure of the liquid, and generates a pressure signal in response to the sensed pressure. The processing module determines one of the messages in accordance with the pressure signal and the look-up table, and transmits the determined message through the interface module to the input port.

Abstract: Embodiments of the subject invention relate to systems, methods, and devices providing a reduced number of selectable inputs that enable efficient communication. One aspect of what is disclosed are embodiments of a systematic code, which systematic code enables efficient communication. Another aspect of the invention is the implementation of embodiments of a systematic code on interactive devices, thereby enabling efficient communication using such interactive devices.

Abstract: A portable computer system is disclosed comprising a central processing unit, a keyboard input unit coupled with the central processing unit, a display system coupled with the central processing unit, means to turn the display system on and off, wherein normal operation of the keyboard does not turn the screen on once the display is turned off.

Abstract: A switch arrangement comprises a photoconductor to be illuminated. The switch arrangement also comprises a conductor which is intended to further transmit light escaping from the photoconductor and directed to the conductor by a local contact, wherein the conductor and the photoconductor are further under the control of an external force, arranged to move in relation to each other and to cause the development, loss or change of the contact in such a way that a detectable change is caused in the light guided through it.

Abstract: A device to facilitate a user interface of a computer system utilizing breath includes a body, a user side inlet defined by the body to receive a fluid flow generated by a user, an exhaust opening defined by the body, a conduit positioned between the user side inlet and the one exhaust opening, at least one segment positioned inside the body and one or more contactors positioned to be intermittently in contact with the at least one segment. The contact may occur responsive to the fluid flow generated by the user. The device may include a sensor to react to a movement of the at least one segment.

Abstract: A system and method for allocation of actuators is provided. Electrodes having several voltages are assigned to actuators within correlation regions of the actuators. By varying the voltages, a desired actuation profile for the actuators may be achieved.

Abstract: A thin electronic input device has a film layer, a conducting layer, a covering layer, character display layer, an IC control unit and a connecting unit. The film layer is made of a flexible material. The conducting layer is mounted on the film layer for sensing a human pulse wave. The covering layer is mounted on the conducting layer. The character display layer is mounted on the covering layer; furthermore, the character display layer also has a plurality of keyboard characters printed thereon. The IC control unit is electrically connected to the conducting layer. The connecting unit is electrically connected to the conducting layer. When a user touches the character display layer to provide a human pulse wave, the conducting layer receives a touch signal for inputting information.

Abstract: Mobile telephone handset navigation functions are integrated into certain of the alphanumeric keys of the mobile keypad. Up, down, right, and left navigation functions are integrated into four alphanumeric keys. The mobile automatically toggles between the navigation and alphanumeric functions of these keys based on where the user is within the interface routine of the mobile. Optionally the user can manually toggle between the navigation and alphanumeric functions by pressing a menu key.

Abstract: The invention provides a key input device comprising a plurality of key tops 7 arranged on a surface of a main body case, each of the key tops 7 having a body 73 of transparent resin, the key body 73 being provided with a light blocking film 71 formed over a front surface thereof, the light blocking film 71 being partly cut out to form a light transmitting pattern 72 representing a character. LEDs 8 are arranged below the key tops 7. Each of the key tops 7 has a semitransparent screen 9 formed on a rear surface thereof in an area to be illuminated with LEDs 8 and extending only over a region opposed to the light transmitting pattern 72.

Abstract: A hot-key mouse is to position several hot keys on both sides of a scroll wheel of the mouse, excepting remaining original design of the left and the right mouse buttons, the hot keys are positioned adjacent to the scroll wheel and between the left and the right mouse buttons without hindering the operations of the left and the right mouse buttons. Those hot keys are pre-defined by functions for either the left or the right hand user to operate without changing another type of mouse. The invention enables the hot-key mouse to be commonly used by either the left or the right hand user, in addition, to reduce the manufacturing cost.

Abstract: What is disclosed are various embodiments of a removable control panel for multi-function equipment for the alternative navigation and selection of various available options presented. The embodiment of FIG. 7 is shown comprising four arrow-shaped buttons so the impaired user can navigate controls and options displayed. An ENTER button is provided for formalizing the entry of desired selections, where required. An UNDO button is provided to de-select entries. A STATUS button initiates audio, visual, or tactile feedback as to machine state, status, and other assistance. An ENLARGE button is provided by which a visually impaired user can enlarge their current focus for easier seeing and reading. An ON/OFF switch enables/disables feedback for use in those work environments where such assistance is not desired. Each of the buttons has an identifying shape, which can be differentiated by feel, and Braille and other text are additionally provided.

Abstract: Most of on-vehicle DSRC apparatus are mounted on a dashboard of a vehicle and downsized not to hinder vision. Therefore the number of switches disposed on a panel is limited, while increase in number of functions is expected. Moreover, since an on-vehicle DSRC apparatus is operated while driving, a function key method adapted to operate keys visually is not applicable. Accordingly, an apparatus capable of performing multiple functions, in which can be assigned to one switch and operation can be performed without viewing, is demanded. A press button is operated to punch Morse code. Different functions are preliminarily allotted to respective punching patterns. A switch determination section stores the allotted functions, analyzes a press pattern and determines a function to be allotted. One switch serves multiple functions including sound volume setting, history confirmation, and on-vehicle apparatus identification number, achieving a small size on-vehicle DSRC apparatus at reasonable price.

Abstract: According to an embodiment of the present invention, an alerting system includes an activation device coupled to a first human and operable to emit a first signal, a transceiver coupled to the first human and operable to detect the first signal and emit a second signal in response thereto, a receiver coupled to a second human and operable to receive the second signal, and an indicator coupled to the receiver and operable to activate in response to receipt of the second signal.

Abstract: A system for the secure access of individuals belonging to a community to Internet resources, comprising a dedicated keyboard provided with an identification means suitable to identify it when accessing a web site, and an automatic URL calling means suitable to force a browser coupled with said keyboard to open a web page the URL of which is supplied by said keyboard, the system further comprise one or more web pages the access from which is limited to specific predetermined web pages, the access to the World Wide Web from such pages being precluded.

Abstract: A pointing device includes an elastic plate is provided with a perforation or notch through which a pin can be inserted. Terminal electrodes are formed, and then strain resistant elements are formed in the state in which the pin is inserted through the perforation or notch. Thus, variations in the positional relationship between the terminal electrodes and the strain resistant elements are eliminated. A base plate may be provided with a perforation or notch which can receive the pin. The pin is inserted through the notch of the elastic plate. The elastic plate is mounted on the base plate using the pin as a guide. The elastic plate may be made of yttrium-stabilized zirconia.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method (200) of generating an array (100, 300, 400) having a reduced number of input/outputs (114, 314, 414). The method includes the steps of, for each array row input/output, grouping (212) at least one set of rows (124, 324, 424) in which the set of rows is coupled to the array row input/output and, for each combination of the array row input/outputs, selectively coupling (216) non-set rows (326, 426) to the array row input/outputs that comprise the combination. At least a portion of a number of rows (110, 310, 410) for the array is equal to the number of rows in each set of rows multiplied by the number of array row input/outputs plus the number of non-set rows coupled to the array row input/output combinations.

Abstract: A software application has certain keyboard hot key combinations. If the application is active the pressing of a key is detected for the application. A number of keyboard keys are selected responsive to the key pressed. The selected keys correspond to hot key combinations that include the pressed key. The keyboard is signaled to differentiate the selected keys. Further, the application is operable to have a number of contexts, where certain ones of the hot key combinations are only valid for certain of the contexts. For example, where the application includes a word processing function one of the application contexts is a circumstance in which text is selected. Accordingly, the method includes detecting the context of the application and the selecting is responsive to that context. In this situation the selected keys correspond to hot key combinations that include the pressed key and that are valid for the detected context.

Abstract: A system and method for determining which key value in a set of key values is to be assigned as a current key value as a result an object intersecting a region where a virtual interface is provided. The virtual interface may enable selection of individual key values in the set. The position is determined using a depth sensor that determines a depth of the position in relation to the location of the depth sensor. A set of previous key values that are pertinent to the current key value may also be identified. In addition, at least one of either a displacement characteristic of the object, or a shape characteristic of the object is determined. A probability is determined that indicates the current key value is a particular one or more of the key values in the set.

Abstract: A terminal is designed so that a user who employs numerical keys, allocated for the entry of dots, can enter Braille dot combinations that are used for the input of characters. The input characters may be output as speech for feedback. Further, when a terminal accesses a server, Braille dot combinations can be entered in the above described manner, and speech can be fed back from the server. Furthermore, the server can provide a service for the user in accordance with a character string input at the terminal.

Abstract: A device for enhancing interpersonal communication over distance through use of touch. A vibrotactile (touch-and-vibration) interface is used to improve existing remote communication by allowing tactile cues to augment the audio-visual information in real-time. The pressure exerted by each finger of the transmitter produces patterns of vibration against the corresponding finger of the receiver. A hand-held device using the interface allows a user to transmit and receive patterns of vibration to and from a remote user and signify tactile gestures, or expressive uses of touch.

Abstract: According to embodiments of the present invention, a wearable remote control for controlling one or more devices comprises a mounting base coupled with a garment. A retainer base is coupled with the mounting base on an outside of the garment. A multi-directional joint is coupled with the retainer base. A main support extends from the multi-directional joint on an opposite side of the multi-directional joint from the retainer base. An input device is coupled with an end of the main support opposite the multi-directional joint. A main support retainer extends from the retainer base and is adapted to engage and retain the main support in a non-use position in response to a user moving the garment.

Abstract: A mouth mounted computer input device is comprised of a curved housing shaped to closely engage the roof of the mouth against the front teeth. A touch pad is arranged on the bottom of the housing, and an electrical stimulator is arranged on the top of the housing. A microphone, a camera, a temperature sensor, a pulse monitor, and a first transceiver are also positioned in the housing. A fiber optic lens connected to the camera and projecting from the housing is arranged to be positioned between two front teeth. A second transceiver is connected to a personal computer. The touch pad is operable by the tongue for cursor control. The stimulator provides pulsed electrical stimulation to the mouth to present alphanumeric information. The microphone enables speech input, and the camera enables video input, the temperature sensor measures body temperature, and the pulse monitor measures heart rate.

Abstract: This invention is a photosite which allows access from a cell phone to provide user-friendlier services. The photosite creates an ID (S6501) and creates a character string Str from the ID by combining numerals and alphabetical characters by using a storage unit which stores buttons 0 to 9 of the cell phone and the number of alphabetical characters assigned to the respective buttons in correspondence with each other (S6502–S6507). In this case, a character string is created such that any two consecutive characters are assigned to different keys.

Abstract: A computer input device includes a base, a movable member that is displaceable relative to the base, and a sensor that is operably coupled to the movable member. The sensor provides an output signal to circuitry indicative of position of the movable member relative to the base. The circuitry defines movements of the movable member relative to the base as within an absolute motion region and a relative motion region.

Abstract: An input device includes a magnet to be worn by a user on one fingertip of either a right hand or a left hand, a first magnetic sensor to be worn by the user on a wrist of either the right hand or the left hand to detect a magnetic field generated by the magnet at a corresponding position, a second magnetic sensor to be worn by the user on the same wrist on which the first magnetic sensor is worn and at a position that is farther from the magnet than the first magnetic sensor and eliminates effects of geomagnetism, and an output unit to output a difference between an output signal from the first magnetic sensor and an output signal from the second magnetic sensor.

Abstract: A keyboard with elevated keys for a notebook computer. The keys of the keyboard are elevated when the notebook computer is opened, and can be depressed when the flat display is closed. The keyboard has keys movably connected to the foundation sheet through scissors-type linking mechanisms. A plurality of guiding sheets is movably disposed on a foundation sheet and has hooks and tracks. Each of the tracks is parallel to a first direction. A sliding member is movably disposed on the foundation sheet and has protrusions extending into each of the tracks. When the sliding member moves in the first direction, the protrusions move the guiding sheets from a first position to a second position. The hooks of the guiding sheets sequentially press the scissors-type linking mechanism of each key to depress the keys of the keyboard from elevated position to depressed position.

Abstract: A Braille input device includes eight keys for entering dot information that forms a Braille character. The device further includes a space key and eight function keys, with a separate function key arranged above each dot key. This allows a user to rapidly and accurately select any desired function key without removing his or her hands from the Braille keyboard. A cursor router key and a Braille display including a plurality of Braille cells may also be provided.

Abstract: A key sensing device comprises a first conductive contact and a second conductive contact spaced from one another by a low-force spacer element which includes a low-force aperture disposed between the first conductive contact and the second conductive contact. A third conductive contact and a fourth conductive contact are spaced from one another by a high-force spacer element which includes a high-force aperture disposed therebetween. The low-force aperture and the high-force aperture are configured to be aligned with a keyboard key so that a pressing of the keyboard key with a sufficient force causes contact between the first conductive contact and the second conductive contact through the low-force aperture and contact between the third conductive contact and the fourth conductive contact through the high-force aperture. The low-force aperture is larger in size than the high-force aperture.

Abstract: A method for configuring button keys on a membrane includes the steps of: mapping the membrane under the conditions of without jumping and without generating ghost keys; gathering adjacent button keys on a same cluster; defining a button key configuration chart according to each cluster; and linking circuits of each button key in each cluster to a flat cable of the membrane. Then defining total number of various composite keys; locating the composite keys to be not co-linear or cross co-linear on the X-axis or the Y-axis of the matrix scanning lines; and mapping other adjacent button keys without the jumping.

Abstract: A device and method for operating and controlling a cursor by a foot. The foot-operated input control device includes a first pedal for controlling a cursor along an x-axis and a second pedal for controlling a cursor along a y-axis. The first pedal is supported by a first base and further connected to a first motion detector which determines an angular motion of the first pedal. The second pedal is supported by a second base and further connected to a second motion detector which determines an angular motion of a second pedal. The angular motion of the first and second pedals are combined together and translated into the direction and velocity of motion of the cursor on a screen.

Abstract: A foot operated mouse control system for controlling a computer mouse having at least one mouse button and a scroll wheel. The control system includes a foot operated mouse controller having a foot support platform. The foot support platform has an upper surface and a lower surface. A retaining device extends from the platform's lower surface, and is sized to receive and capture the mouse. A control wheel is rotationally mounted to a through hole of the platform such that a portion of the control wheel protrudes simultaneously above the platform's upper surface and below the platform's lower surface. When the retaining device captures the mouse the control wheel engages the scroll wheel.

Abstract: A system and method for improving the usability of electronic products. Control devices such as keyboards, mice, and switches, for example, are often accompanied by software which allows users to configure the device response to suit their physical abilities, situation and task. The system and method enables automatic configuration of such control devices in real time to match the user's requirements and enables users to achieve accurate control. The system includes a device for monitoring user activity and determining an appropriate device configuration from user activity sequences with that device, and a configurer that implements the appropriate configuration determined by the algorithm. The method further includes optional steps for identifying when a user with different configuration requirements starts to use a device, and for resetting the state of an inference algorithm when such changes are detected. This allows rapid configuration in environments where many individuals may use the same device.

Abstract: A manual input system for efficient generation of inputs by entering chords comprises a keyboard (66) with ten colored keys (74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, and 92) and a legend (94) The keys of the keyboard (66) each are operated by a different digit of a human operator and each have a different color. The legend (94) presents the assignment of chords to the symbols found on the standard computer keyboard. Character chords involve only fingers, while modifier chords involve only thumbs, so that each character can be combined with each modifier. Command chords also involve a thumb, so that accidental input of modified characters and commands during character input is prevented. The legend (94) shows determination of chords by visualizing the position of symbols relative to the rows. Chords are represented by combinations of digit-representing colored area. Each colored area resembling a digit or colored keys.

Abstract: A miniature keyboard wherein the keys are arranged in a way to improve data entry and decrease the chance of depressing multiple keys at a time. Accordingly, the height of the keys are patterned to decrease the chance of multiple key depressions thus increasing the accuracy of data input into the personal digital assistant. In one embodiment, the height of the keys is alternated down the individual rows of keys. In another embodiment, the height of the keys is alternated across individual columns of keys. Similarly, in another embodiment, the heights of the keys are arranged in a checkered pattern on the keyboard. In addition, another embodiment staggers the heights of the keys and incorporates embodiments mentioned above. By incorporating different key arrangements and alternating the height of the keys, key differentiation, key navigation, and data input accuracy is greatly improved due to the improved tactile feedback provided by the miniature keyboard.

Abstract: A hand-held electronic device with a keyboard optimized for use with the thumbs is provided. The handheld device includes a keyboard, a display, and a processor. The keyboard is horizontally positioned symmetrically between a left edge and a right edge of a face of the hand-held messaging device. The keyboard has a plurality of keys arranged in a plurality of rows across the face, wherein each row of keys is arranged in a concave pattern. The display is vertically positioned between the keyboard and a top edge of the face and is horizontally positioned symmetrically between the left edge and the right edge of the face. The processor is coupled to the keyboard and the display, and controls the operation of the hand-held messaging device.

Abstract: A finger-mounted data entry device that allows a user to enter information into a computing device without using a keyboard and a method of using the data entry device. The data entry device includes thumb contacts and finger contacts. The thumb contacts are positioned on the user's thumbs such that the thumb contacts represent rows of keys on a standard keyboard: a first thumb contact representing a base row of keys; a second thumb contact representing an upper row of keys; and a third thumb contact representing a lower row of keys.

Abstract: There is proposed a method that may be universally used for controlling a man-machine interface unit. A learning sample is used in order at least to derive and/or initialize a target action (t) to be carried out and to lead the user from an optional current status (ec) to an optional desired target status (et) as the final status (ef). This learning sample (l) is formed by a data triple made up by an initial status (ei) before an optional action (a) carried out by the user, a final status (ef) after the action taken place (a).

Abstract: A data-entry device having manually operable input means arranged in zones for operation by corresponding fingers of a user. The device includes means for color coding such that each zone is assigned a color and successive zones display colors ordered according to their relative positions within a spectrum-ordered color pattern. In one embodiment the device includes a keyboard, such as for a computer or typewriter, wherein the keys of the keyboard are color-coded according to a spectrum-ordered color pattern. The invention also provides a method of color coding a data-entry device.

Abstract: A method of giving the user information on the operation of a portable device, and a portable device. In the method, an event that concerns the operation of the device and interests the user is detected by the control means of the device. If at least one silent alarm pattern producing a tactile sensation in the user is attached to the event, the user is given abstract information on the operation of the device by using at least one silent alarm pattern implemented with the alarm device and sensed by the user. Various alarm patterns differ from one another such that at least one alarm pattern characteristic sensed by the user varies. The characteristic can be the alarm pattern frequency, amplitude, changing rate of the amplitude, changing rate of the frequency or duration of the alarm pattern. One way to perform a silent alarm is vibration. The user interface is particularly intended for users with impaired hearing and/or vision.

Abstract: A pneumatic demultiplexer that allows a person with a disability to control multiple assistive technology devices by the use of a single sip-and-puff tube. The devices to be controlled are operated by a single pneumatic or electrical switch input. The pneumatic demultiplexer is under the control of a microprocessor. In a scan stage the user selects the target device via scrolling LED indicators. When a specific device is chosen, the corresponding solenoid valve is activated to connect the input sip-and-puff port to the pneumatic output port. In the activation stage, the input sip-and-puff tube controls the target device directly via the pneumatic demultiplexer. The microprocessor monitors the line activity via a sip-or-puff switch. A watchdog timer is implemented by the microprocessor. After there is a lack of activity for preprogrammed time period, the system switches from the activation stage back to the scan stage.

Abstract: A facilitated input unit (165,170), particularly for allowing a disabled person to use a computer (100). The input unit includes a small display (165) for showing available input items (such as characters, number, and control keys), which is distinct from a monitor (145) of the computer; a headset (170), or other equivalent means, is used to select one of the items and enter the selected item into the system without using the user's hands, thereby simulating a keyboard (155) of the computer.

Abstract: An integrated, surface-mount pointing device for controlling the movement of an object on a display screen, comprises a base member mounted to a substrate; a shaft mounted in the base member; a sensor mounted on the shaft for sensing the amount of strain in the shaft in response to an applied force on the shaft; and an integrated circuit mounted between the base member and the substrate. The integrated circuit can provide signal conditioning and analog to digital signal conversion as required. This allows for an integrated and compact pointing device.

Abstract: A computing device includes a keyboard controller that is adapted to convey an operator input from the keyboard controller along a communications channel. Also included is a battery module, which is interfaced to the communications channel, for receiving the operator input. The computing device further includes a memory element located within the battery module for recording the operator input.

Abstract: A computer input device is provided which is programmable to DOS and Windows programs that have mouse function capability. The mouse function is configured as a ball-mouse familiar to CAD-CAM, positioned like a baseball in a mitt and opposably manipulated by each thumb. The device communicates with a computer mainframe or network configuration, by molding the flat 101 IBM Keyboard into the glove conforming to the opposable grasp of the human hand, whose intradigital keystrokes are assigned by the “touch” system of typewriter input. The 101 IBM keyboard is decimated bilaterally into the interdigital gloves of eight fingers and two thumbs, incorporating the ball-mouse attribute. A “treatment gauntlet” immobilizes and manipulates the hand-wrist-elbow in several treatment modalities palliative of carpal tunnel syndrome.