Abstract: One example embodiment includes a keyboard for providing back typing with a mobile device. The keyboard includes a keypad, where the first keypad includes a set of keys for input to a mobile device and a first hinge, where the first hinge is attached a first portion of the keypad and where the first hinge is configured to allow movement of the first portion of the keypad relative to the mobile device. The keyboard also includes a second hinge, wherein the second hinge is attached a second portion of the keypad and wherein the second hinge is configured to allow movement of the second portion of the keypad relative to the mobile device.

Abstract: An illuminated keyboard includes a keyboard module, a circuit board and a backlight module. The keyboard module includes a bracket and at least one first key cap, disposed above the bracket. At least one side-emitting element and a top-emitting element are disposed at the circuit board. The backlight module is disposed below the keyboard module and includes a light guide plate having a slot. The at least one side-emitting element extends into the slot such that the light emitted from the at least one side-emitting element enters the light guide plate. The light passes through a light output zone of the bracket and illuminate the at least one first key cap.

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 word transcription keyboard utilizing at least one keypad which is available for access by a finger of the user. A second keypad accessible to the finger of the user is extended and terminated in a press pad for allowing contact of the palm region of the hand simultaneously with the pressing of the at least one finger accessible keypad.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for entering data into a computerized navigation system of an aircraft is described. The device is strapped to the thigh with a connection provided to the aircraft avionics. To facilitate safety, quick release of the device from the avionics is provided. Alternatively, instead of a hard wired connection, a wireless connection is disclosed utilizing radio frequencies or infrared light. Alternatively, a pull away release is provided on the strap. The device consists of the keyboard that is ergonomically designed to provide one handed operation. Key layout on the keyboard is ergonomically designed to facilitate operation of the avionics being controlled. Backlighting of the keyboard provides illumination so that operation in low light conditions is possible. The keyboard may be equipped with a cover attached by a hinge that may be removed. The cover provides a convenient writing surface for the operator.

Abstract: A system and method for entering text in a virtual environment by sensory gloves. The user enters a key that represents one or more letters by simulating a press of a keyboard in the gloves. The user calibrates the gloves by entering text, during which time the system establishes threshold values that represent simulated presses for each finger. After the initial calibration of the sensory gloves, the user enters text with simulated finger presses. The system distinguishes which movements are intended as simulated finger presses by examining the relative motions of fingers and maintaining dynamic thresholds. Errors are alleviated by providing feedback to the user, such as beeps and a visual display of the fingers and the current text. Because keys may represent more than one character, the system determines the intended text by probabilistic analysis and the Viterbi algorithm.

Abstract: A keyboard for use with a standard personal computer includes an alphanumeric key array having a plurality of alphanumeric keys arranged in a generally orthogonal, concave array. A home row of keys defines a reference position for the fingers of the operator. A liner array of function keys is provided and positioned above the reference position and tilted toward the operator. A generally orthogonal array of auxiliary keys is also positioned above the reference position. The array of auxiliary keys is rotated with respect to the reference position to accommodate the natural angle of the thumb of the operator to the index finger. A palm rest is provided for receiving the palm of the operator while the operator is manipulating the plurality of alphanumeric keys. The palm rest is positioned above the reference position defined by the home row so that during operation of the alphanumeric keys, the fingers of the operator extend downward from the palm rest in a natural curved manner.

Abstract: A foot-operated keyboard device comprises a support structure and a plurality of switch elements. The support structure extends along a centrally-disposed longitudinal axis and includes an upper panel member. The upper panel member has a first surface with a foot resting region disposed thereon. The foot resting region has a forward toe resting section and a rear heel resting section. The plurality of switch elements are mounted to the support structure and are accessible from the first surface. The plurality of switch elements include at least a first array of switch elements extending traversely to the longitudinal axis in the vicinity of the forward toe resting section of the foot resting region and a second array of switch elements extending transversely to the longitudinal axis in the vicinity of the rear heel resting section of the foot resting region.

Abstract: A foot operated computer mouse adaptor for operating a conventional computer mouse with a computer user's foot having a cavity into which the computer mouse fits and a means to removably attach the computer user's foot onto the housing. The foot operated computer mouse adaptor allows a computer user to use a conventional computer mouse via the movement of the user's foot on any substantially flat surface.

Abstract: A stationary flat horizontal support member has an active circular area with a center point which defines a zero point of intersecting orthogonal X and Y axes. A first flat horizontal plate is disposed above and spaced from the member. The first plate is movable along either or both X and Y axes which are vertically aligned with the corresponding X and Y axes of the member. The first plate has an active circular area with a center and having a home position at which the center of the first plate is vertically aligned with the center point. The first plate is supported above the member in such manner that the first plate can be moved and held in an position with respect to either one or both of the X and y axes by an operator in an almost frictionless manner. Once the operator releases the hold, the first plate is automatically returned to zero position.

Abstract: A keyboard which can be assembled from individual keys is disclosed. The individual keys include a key button, a key shaft for switching electric circuits, a stationary key body, and a spring for influencing the relative movement between the key shaft and key body. A base structure having cutouts is provided for receiving the keys. A circuit board carrying control elements cooperates with the key arrangement. The key buttons have several receiving openings for the key shafts. The cutouts in the base structure and the arrangement of the control elements on the circuit board are staggered relative to each other from row to row by a half spacing.