Abstract: A keyboard having a lifting lid and a replaceable panel includes a keyboard body, a see-through upper lid made from a transparent or translucent material to cover the keyboard body and an ornamental panel sandwiched between the keyboard body and the upper lid on a keyboard non-operation zone. Users can replace a desired ornamental panel whenever desired to enhance the total aesthetic appealing of the keyboard body.

Abstract: A keyboard having an input region that provides a set of input elements designed to complement a separate pointing device such as a computer mouse. These input elements enable both the dominant and non-dominant hand to work easily together to perform various functions, which in turn, makes “consumption” and “composition” tasks more efficient. The input region may be spaced laterally from the alphanumeric or “QWERTY” section of the keyboard. The elements include a scrolling member, first and second groups of keys, and an application switching device. The scrolling member may take the form of a rotatable member. The rotatable member may have an asymmetric outer profile and/or be frustum-shaped. The first group of keys preferably includes a Back key and a Forward key. The first group of keys and the scrolling member make performing “consumption” tasks more efficient. The second group of keys preferably includes a Cut key, a Copy key, and a Paste key.

Abstract: This invention provides an inputting apparatus with a reduced number of lines in its connection cable, a simplified structure and improved reliability.

Abstract: A keyboard 10 includes a housing 12. An alphanumeric keypad 14 is carried by the housing 12. A printer 16 is arranged in the housing 12. The printer includes a print media feed mechanism having a spiked wheel for engaging the print media and transporting the print media through the keyboard housing.

Abstract: A flexible foldable keyboard apparatus includes a flexible foldable keyboard (101) having a key defining plane (102), an interface device and phone supporting device (103). The phone supporting device (103) is arranged to unfold from a storage configuration, in which the phone supporting device (103) is folded onto the key defining plane (102) to allow the key defining plane (102) to be wrapped around the phone supporting device (103), to present a telephone supporting configuration, in which the phone supporting device (103) is configured to receive a mobile telephone (401). The phone supporting device (103) is configured to support a mobile telephone (401) in an orientation in which an electrical connection is provided between the interface device and the electrical connectors of the mobile telephone (401), such that the mobile telephone (401) and the flexible foldable keyboard (101) are in electrical communication.

Abstract: A system and method for improved navigation and access of computer media content using media transport controls is provided. These transport controls may be placed in various locations such as on the computer housing, on a keyboard, on a monitor or a remote control. With these controls, a user may easily play multimedia content and navigate to individual tracks or segments of an audio and/or video stream. The transport controls include a play/pause button, a stop button, a previous button, and a next button. A user may intuitively activate and interact with media content in a variety of applications using these transport controls. For example, users may play recordings such as voice mail and review their recorded replies using the transport controls. Users may similarly play and/or review multimedia annotations made to any application files, including traditional computer files such as spreadsheets, documents and presentations.

Abstract: A computer keyboard may include an assembly for scrolling and navigating an image in multiple directions relative to a display screen. A computer keyboard may include an assembly for control of a graphical object, insertion point or mouse cursor in multiple directions relative to objects on a display screen. Two control devices are provided onto each side of a computer keyboard. The devices are configured such that both control a graphical cursor. One device controls a graphical cursor and the other device controls view scrolling of an image. In yet another aspect, the functionality of the devices for cursor control or view scrolling is selectable.

Abstract: A modular laptop computer for accommodating selective placement and customization of user interface components. The computer includes a cavity having a connection or interface or coupling region, such as a universal serial bus jack for connecting to or mating with a corresponding interface on each component. The interface connections in the cavity are connected to one or more buses for providing an interface between the attached components and a computer processor. In this manner, the components such as keyboards, trackballs, drives, music players and so forth, can all be rearranged within the cavity in the positions of the user's preference.

Abstract: A keyboard augmenting hot key structure consisting of a main keyboard having expansion keyboards disposed at its lateral ends, the expansion keyboards each situated on a preloaded torque spring in the main keyboard internal section. A drive structure maintains the expansion keyboards within the main keyboard internal section such that when the expansion keyboards are not utilized, they are concealed within the internal section of the main keyboard. When the expansion keyboards are utilized, the operation of the drive structure torque springs impels the expansion keyboards outward from the main keyboard such that given the unchanged, overall keyboard physical size, there is usable space for accommodating numerous hot keys, providing the users to collect the expansion keyboards at will and without occupying space when the expansion keyboards are not utilized.

Abstract: A keyboard for an electronic device that incorporates a flexible carrier for the keys. The flexible carrier has cutouts or slots that aid in decoupling the actions of one from its neighbors. Moreover, in addition to or instead of cutouts or slots, the flexible carrier optionally has cutouts around its outer perimeter. In some embodiments, the keys are molded as part of the flexible carrier. In other embodiments, the keys are attached to or inserted in the flexible carrier during manufacture. Various embodiments of the invention employ various key shapes to aid the user's tactile experience while typing.

Abstract: Multiple methods of using only two sensors to control the state of an object in a one dimensional environment, a two dimensional environment or a three dimensional environment. A method of using only two sensors to control the state of an object in a secondary mode and edit data in a third mode. A method of using only two sensors to edit changes. A method of using only two sensors to control the state of an object in graphic arts programs. A method of using only two sensors to control the state of an object in two states, three states, four states, eight states, ten states or fourteen states. A method of using only two sensors to increase or decrease control of an object.

Abstract: A keyboard includes a housing having a number of cavities to slidably receive shanks of a number of key pads, and a light device for lighting the key pads. The lighting device includes a number of light members engaged in the shanks of the key pads, the housing includes two conductive projections extended into each of the cavities to selectively engage with terminals of the light members, and to energize the light members when the key pads are depressed by the users. A spring biasing device may bias the key pad to disengage the terminals of the light members from the conductive projections.

Abstract: A method and system of minimizing sticky keys in an electronic device having a body, circuitry, and a plurality of keypads is disclosed. The method and system comprise providing a protectant coating; and applying the protectant coating on surfaces of both the keypad and also the body to prevent sticking between the mating surfaces. A system and method is added in accordance with the present invention utilizing a protectant on critical surfaces which serves to prevent the residual buildup of contaminants following spills. In so doing the sticky key problem associated with the contaminated buildup is substantially eliminated.

Abstract: A method and system for assembling a keypad or a keypad module to a processing portion of an electronic device is described. The keypad module is a sealed unit connectable to the pre assembled processing portion through a common interface. The keypad module includes a bezel substrate that has a locally thin region where an accessory can be placed. For example, a speaker may be included in the keypad module. The keypad module itself may be its own an electromechanical entity.

Abstract: A keyboard having an input region that provides a set of input elements designed to complement a separate pointing device such as a computer mouse. These input elements enable both the dominant and non-dominant hand to work easily together to perform various functions, which in turn, makes “consumption” and “composition” tasks more efficient. The input region may be spaced laterally from the alphanumeric or “QWERTY” section of the keyboard. The elements include a scrolling member, first and second groups of keys, and an application switching device. The scrolling member may take the form of a rotatable member. The rotatable member may have an asymmetric outer profile and/or be frustum-shaped. The first group of keys preferably includes a Back key and a Forward key. The first group of keys and the scrolling member make performing “consumption” tasks more efficient. The second group of keys preferably includes a Cut key, a Copy key, and a Paste key.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a keyboard includes a barrier layer. The barrier layer may be mounted between an upper and lower housing portion of the keyboard so as to provide a substantially water impermeable pocket about a keyboard circuit. The barrier layer includes at least one key aperture that allows the barrier layer to attach to a key, the attachment providing a substantially water impermeable seal between the barrier layer and the key. Thus, the barrier layer acts to prevent liquids that are spilled on the keys from contacting and damage an electrical keyboard circuit provided below the barrier layer. In an embodiment the keyboard may be rinsed under running water without damaging the keyboard circuit.

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: A printing device for printing labels comprises a memory for storing one or more character sets, each character set including at least a principle character and an additional character which is associated with the principle character; user input means having character selection keys for selecting a character set to define an image to be printed by the printing device; and a controller for accessing characters from the memory to be displayed and printed which correspond to characters selected at the user input means. The first actuation of a character selection key selects the principle character in the selected character set and a subsequent activation of the character selection key in a predetermined time frame selects the associated additional character.

Abstract: A collapsible keyboard with supporting structures for an electronic device. The collapsible keyboard comprises a body, a first supporting structure and a second supporting structure. The body comprises a first section and a second section rotatably connected thereto. The first supporting structure rotatably connects to the first section. One end of the second supporting structure rotatably connects to the second section, with the other end connecting to the first supporting structure. When the first and second sections rotate to expand the body, the first and second supporting structures extend therewith to support the electronic device.

Abstract: A computer keyboard includes a frame, a grid of conductors located on the frame and forming a plurality of intersections, and a plurality of keys located above the plurality of intersections. Each key is associated with an intersection and configured to create an electrical connection between the conductors of the associated intersection during a key press. The keyboard further includes a base, a plurality of force sensors located between the base and the frame; and a microprocessor. The microprocessor has a plurality of conductor pins each in electrical contact with one of the conductors of the grid, and is also coupled to the force sensors so as to receive force data output from the force sensors.

Abstract: In a miniature keyboard, keybuttons may shift their relative positions from a relatively smaller array when stored to deployment which results in a relatively larger array for active keyboard use. An application for this positional adjustment is the use of the keyboard for inputting data with fingertips when used with portable miniature electronic devices, e.g., small cellphones.

Abstract: Input apparatus scaled for non-adult humans and adult humans having small hands. The input apparatus are especially well suited for use as computer keyboards for use by schoolchildren. Also disclosed is a computing system including the input apparatus.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a keyboard includes a barrier layer. The barrier layer may be mounted between an upper and lower housing portion of the keyboard so as to provide a substantially water impermeable pocket about a keyboard circuit. The barrier layer includes at least one key aperture that allows the barrier layer to attach to a key, the attachment providing a substantially water impermeable seal between the barrier layer and the key. Thus, the barrier layer acts to prevent liquids that are spilled on the keys from contacting and damage an electrical keyboard circuit provided below the barrier layer. In an embodiment the keyboard may be rinsed under running water without damaging the keyboard circuit.

Abstract: A printer includes a housing containing a pagewidth printhead. A keyboard to operate the computer is integrated with the housing. The printer is operated by a controller PCB located within the housing that is responsive to commands from the computer. Integration of the keyboard with the housing assists in reducing the number of computer peripherals that are usually required which is beneficial where working space is limited.

Abstract: A multi-tier keypad includes at least a first circuit board having a first circuit and a second circuit board having a second circuit, wherein the second circuit board is disposed adjacent to the first circuit board, one or more first key assemblies for providing input to the first circuit when a first key assembly is pressed and one or more second key assemblies for providing input to the second circuit when a second key assembly is pressed. Apertures are formed through the first circuit board. These apertures allow the second key assemblies to extend through the first circuit board for providing input to the second circuit.

Abstract: A keypad unit for an access system including an outer housing having an integral bezel. A carrier is mounted within the housing, and an overlay including key zones is mounted to the carrier. A PCB assembly is suspended within the carrier by a non-compressive, but compliant encapsulating compound. The PCB assembly includes a foam layer sandwiched between a top PCB and a bottom PCB. LEDs are electrically coupled to a top surface of the top PCB. Piezoelectric transducers are mounted to the top PCB and are backed by the foam layer. The carrier may include carrier projections are in register with the key zones on the overlay and the transducers. When an operator pushes a key zone, the corresponding projection transmits the force via the carrier and the encapsulating compound to the carrier adjacent the corresponding transducer causing it to generate a voltage indicative of the pressure zone at which the force was applied.

Abstract: A key structure. The key structure comprises a substrate, a key cover, a first rod and a resilient member disposed between the substrate and the key cover. The key cover has a receiving seat defining an opening and a receiving space. Particularly, the length of the opening is less than the receiving space, and the opening is offset with respect to the center of the receiving space. The first rod has a first end connecting the key cover and a second end connecting the substrate, wherein the first end has a protrusion passing through the opening into the receiving space.

Abstract: Systems and methods for input of text symbols into an electronic device comprising a reduced keyboard having keys representing a plurality of characters are disclosed. Possible symbol variants are identified based on character inputs received from the reduced keyboard. Each identified symbol variant is grouped into one of a plurality of groups of symbol variants, each group having an associated priority, according to a type of the symbol variant. Within at least one of the groups, the symbol variants are ranked in decreasing order of frequencies of use of the symbol variants. A list of symbol variants comprising the plurality of groups of symbol variants in order of decreasing priority is then displayed, and an input symbol is selected from the list of symbol variants. The symbol variants of the at least one of the groups of symbol variants are thereby sorted by both priority and frequency of use.

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: A top structure for a keypad, comprising a number of key caps. The structure comprises a solid flexible layer, which is placed above the key caps or directly on them, and arranged to yield when the key is felt. The material, properties and thickness of the flexible layer are selected so that the key cap can be perceived by a sensation of touch and found under the layer, when the key is felt. The flexible layer is, for example, of a textile or textile-imitating material. The top structure can be utilized in a keypad component, in an electronic device, particularly a mobile phone, and in clothing provided with a keypad.

Abstract: A foldable input apparatus for inputting data to an electronic device is provided. The foldable input apparatus includes a connection part, a first input part, a second input part, a first housing and a second housing. The connection part includes a first pivot, a second pivot, a third pivot and a fourth pivot. The first housing pivotally connects to the first pivot, and the second housing pivotally connects to the third pivot. The first input part pivotally connects to the second pivot, and the second input part pivotally connects to the fourth pivot. The first input part and the first housing rotate with respect to different pivots, and so do the second input part and the second housing. Therefore, when the first input part, the first housing, the second input part and the second housing rotate with respect to the connection part, a relative position of the first input part and the first housing as well as that of the second input part and the second housing are correspondingly changed.

Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a method of manufacturing a metallic switch with high productivity. A transparent printed layer (4) is patterned and formed on a metalizing layer (3) formed on the front surface of a transfer substrate, and the metalizing layer (3) is subjected to etching. The metalizing layer (3) and the transparent printed layer (4) are integrally transferred onto a key top body (6). As a result, the metalizing layer, which has a low strength and can be easily fractured, is protected and reinforced by the transparent printed layer (4), the metalizing layer can be transferred with high stability, and a metallic switch is manufactured in an easy manner and with good efficiency.

Abstract: A key pad has resin key tops on a key sheet. The resin key tops have in their side surfaces clearance portions of a configuration in conformity with an outer configuration of interference members at least an upper portions of which are situated in displacement regions at bottom surface edges of the resin key tops allowing their displacement when they are depressed.

Abstract: A key (21) for a keyboard or keypad, the key (21) having an upper finger engaged surface (2) defining a generally top edge portion (3) remote from the user, a generally bottom edge portion (4) adjacent to the user, a generally left edge portion (5) and a generally right edge portion (6), the key (21) further having a ridge (22) adjacent to the top edge portion (3), the bottom edge portion (4), the left edge portion (5) and/or the right edge portion (6).

Abstract: In a foldable keyboard, a cover member (100) includes a cover part (101) provided with a cover plate (104) and a pair of supporting elements (102, 103) formed on both ends of the cover plat. The supporting elements are each formed with a first slot (117) and a second slot (118). A support screw (123) passes with play through the first slot and is fixedly received in a baring hole (13A) of a bearing member (13) formed in a corner (12B) of a first keyboard unit (3) and a support screw (124) passes with play through the first slot and is fixedly received in a support hole (121) of a first base plate (5) formed in a corner (12A). A support screw (125) passes with play through the second slot and is fixedly received in a bearing hole (17A) of a bearing member (17) formed in a corner (16B) of a second keyboard unit (4) and a support screw (126) passes with play through the second slot and is fixedly received in a support hole (120) of a second base plate (8) formed in a corner (16A).

Abstract: A pagewidth printer includes a housing that defines a print media inlet and a print media outlet. A pagewidth printhead assembly is positioned in the housing between the print media inlet and outlet. A feed mechanism is interposed between the print media inlet and the printhead assembly to feed print media through the printhead assembly. A key pad assembly is positioned on the housing and is connectable to a computer.

Abstract: An enhanced data entry keyboard apparatus and method positions a tab key proximate the numeric keyboard section of a computer keyboard, so that a user may depress the tab key with the same hand that is being used to operate the numeric keyboard, without moving that hand from the area of the numeric keyboard. In one embodiment, a toggle key is provided to permit the toggling of a second key, preferably the “enter” key located in the lowest right-hand corner of a typical keyboard, between its default function and a “tab” function. A status indicator light may be provided to indicate that toggling has occurred.

Abstract: A keyboard (10) includes a housing (12). An alphanumeric keypad (14) is carried by the housing (12). A printer (16) is arranged in the housing (12).

Abstract: A computer keyboard may include an assembly for scrolling and navigating an image in multiple directions relative to a display screen. A computer keyboard may include an assembly for control of a graphical object, insertion point or mouse cursor in multiple directions relative to objects on a display screen. Two control devices are provided onto each side of a computer keyboard. The devices are configured such that both control a graphical cursor. One device controls a graphical cursor and the other device controls view scrolling of an image. In yet another aspect, the functionality of the devices for cursor control or view scrolling is selectable.

Abstract: A portable keyboard includes a selected number of standard-size keys in a reduced size housing having a removable cover that both protects the keyboard during transit and can be removed and used to support the portable keyboard in selected positions to aid in its use. The reduced size housing and standard-size keys are configured, sized, dimensioned to be operated with a minimum number of errors and to be stored in a portable computer carrying case when not in use.

Abstract: A keyboard having an improved function key section and an improved editing section. A row of keys is located behind the alphanumeric section. The row of keys includes individual predefined command keys. The groupings of the predefined command keys may be made based on the functionality of the keys, their use on common applications or programs, and/or other by other grouping techniques. Further, the keys within each group may be ordered based on chronological order of use, frequency of use, or by a correlation to a graphical toolbar. Each of at least two adjacent groupings of keys behind the alphanumeric region consists of exactly three keys, and each of at least three adjacent key groupings in the entire row consists of exactly three keys. The keys are each capable of functioning as predetermined command keys in a first mode and standard function keys in a second mode.

Abstract: A keyboard attached to a personal digital assistant (PDA) set having: a hinge unit including a connector to transfer a keyboard input signal to the PDA, and upper and lower hinge covers; a connection unit placed inside of the hinge unit, and can be attached in the front direction or the back direction to the PDA; and a keyboard body connected with the hinge unit, folded and unfolded about the hinge unit, having a typing board on an upper side and a front panel controller (FPC) keypad to input a key pressed on the typing board. Therefore, the keyboard of the PDA can not only be attached in the front direction or the back direction to the PDA, but also separated from the PDA, thus making the usage and maintenance of the keyboard convenient.

Abstract: A key extender includes an elongated member, e.g., a deformable metal rod having a first end portion secured to a contact member, e.g., a circular disc having a contact area greater than the available touch plate surface area of the key. An opposite second end portion of the elongated member is secured to an attachment member, e.g., a binder clip. Mounting an extender on each of the keys of a device and shaping the metal rod to position the discs adjacent to and spaced from one another allows a disabled person to play a musical instrument or perform a similar function.

Abstract: A waterproof keyboard is provided, which has keys, scissor frames, elastic layer bodies, a membrane circuit board, a support plate and a bottom plate, wherein the bottom board is disposed with a plurality of stamped nodes, which are corresponded by apertures disposed on the support plate. The means of riveting is used for riveting the bottom plate and the support plate, such that no apertures can be found on the bottom plate, so as to prevent liquids poured on the keyboard by accident from infiltrating down to the motherboard underneath the bottom plate, thus assuring that the motherboard is not damaged thereby. As a result, the computer can be kept operable. Also the membrane circuit board is mounted on top of the support plate, thus rendering the overall structural assembly easier and such overall structure more stable.

Abstract: A light module having a first power line, a second power line, and light devices. The first power line is connected to a first power point. The second power line is connected to a second power point. Each light device having a first terminal coupled to the first power line and a second terminal coupled to the second power line. A first sum of a first line length between the first power point and the first terminal of any of the light devices and a second line length between the second power point and the second terminal thereof is substantially a first constant.

Abstract: A compact desktop computer system is provided that has a small footprint due to integration of a pagewidth printer into the computer system's keyboard. A data bus interconnects the keyboard and conveys commands from the keyboard to a computer, and signals from the computer to the integrated printer. The keyboard is fitted with a port to receive an ink cartridge that is in fluid communication with the pagewidth printer.

Abstract: A compact, ergonomic telephony keypad is described which comprises three principle buttons capable of performing twelve distinct electronic switch operations. The three principle buttons are positioned in a group comprising a telephony keypad with each button formed for tactile manipulation to achieve four of the twelve switch operations. Each button also has four tactile depressible areas positioned thereon around an imaginary central axis. The four tactile depressible areas are spaced about equally apart around the imaginary central axis of each of the principle buttons. And, the three principle buttons are spaced apart and positioned relative to each other so as to substantially maximize the spacing of the twelve depressible areas, while, substantially minimizing the spacing of the principle buttons.

Abstract: A computer, including a keyboard for the input of data and commands, in which components of the Computer other than the components of the keyboard are interleaved between the keys of the keyboard, making it possible to build a computer smaller in volume than a computer of comparable capabilities without the interleaving of Computer Components.

Abstract: This invention is a keyboard apparatus with front and back key functionality. The body of the apparatus is held in the hands, supported by the palms. This leaves both of the thumbs and all of the fingers free to operate the key functionality, while the apparatus is being held. Key functionality installed on the back is operated by the fingers; key functionality installed on the front is operated by the thumbs. When properly configured, the user may perform full touch-typing techniques while holding the apparatus. This configuration may reduce stress on the hands. Modifier keys are shaped, grouped and positioned so they may be operated by one thumb. Algorithms provide keyboard lock function and aid the user in locating the home row of keys needed for touch-typing.

Abstract: A keyboard having an input region that provides a set of input elements designed to complement a separate pointing device such as a computer mouse. These input elements enable both the dominant and non-dominant hand to work easily together to perform various functions, which in turn, makes “consumption” and “composition” tasks more efficient. The input region may be spaced laterally from the alphanumeric or “QWERTY” section of the keyboard. The elements include a scrolling member, first and second groups of keys, and an application switching device. The scrolling member may take the form of a rotatable member. The rotatable member may have an asymmetric outer profile and/or be frustum-shaped. The first group of keys preferably includes a Back key and a Forward key. The first group of keys and the scrolling member make performing “consumption” tasks more efficient. The second group of keys preferably includes a Cut key, a Copy key, and a Paste key.