Abstract: An apparatus and method for telephony tone signal and character code generation for QWERTY keyboards includes a QWERTY style keyboard, a processor and a keyboard mode control software module. The QWERTY style keyboard has a plurality of letter keys, wherein each letter key is configured to generate a unique input signal. The processor is coupled to the keyboard and is configured to convert each unique input signal generated by the letter keys into a character code and/or a telephony tone signal. The keyboard mode control software module operates on the processor, and controls whether the processor converts the unique input signals from the letter keys into character codes or telephony tone signals.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a reconfigurable keyboard is provided. One implementation involves a row mounting mechanism for mounting each row of keys on a row frame, the row mounting mechanism allowing one or more keys of each row to be moved and locked in a certain row position, whereby the spacing of one or more keys in each row on the keyboard can change. The apparatus also includes a column mounting mechanism for mounting each column of keys on a column frame, the column mounting mechanism allowing one or more keys of each column to be moved and locked in a certain column position, whereby the spacing of one or more keys in each column on the keyboard can change. As such, one or more keys can be moved in row or column and to lock or unlock key positioning for arranging the keys on a keyboard according to a reconfigurable layout.

Abstract: A keyboard that includes at least two planes of keys and a communication port. The keyboard can be configured to include a back-to-back position. In the back-to-back position, the planes can be jointed so that each plane has outwardly facing keys which are fixed relative to the other plane at approximately a one-hundred and eighty degree angle (e.g., between one hundred and seventy degrees and one hundred and eighty degrees) relative to the other plane. The communication port can establish a communication linkage between the keyboard and a computing device. When in the back-to-back position, key presses from the keyboard are able to be conveyed across the communication linkage to be interpreted as input by the communicatively linked computing device.

Abstract: A keyboard with intervals-adjustable keys has a baseboard, plural pairs of key modules, at least one piezoelectric device and a differential mechanism. The plural pairs of key modules are symmetrically arranged on the baseboard between the vertical axis of the baseboard. The piezoelectric devices connected with the plural pair of key modules are used to output electrical signal. The differential mechanism has at least one differential gear and at least one migration controller. When one of these pairs of key modules is forced to move, the pair of key module drives the corresponding migration controller to propel all of the differential gears. Then the other migration controllers and key modules are driven to move.

Abstract: An ergonomic keyboard having a mount and a plurality of keys arranged in a plurality of unbroken adjacent rows is provided. Each row is comprised of an arcuate portion, a left portion, and a right portion. The left and right portions extend tangentially from the left and right sides of the arcuate portion, respectively. The arcuate portion, of each row is convex to the user side of the keyboard, and at least two keys in each arcuate portion are elongated. Alphanumeric indicia on the keys can be arranged in the QWERTY pattern.

Abstract: An apparatus to increase identification of cancer mass in subcutaneous tissue, by palpation by self examination, to accommodate disability, to increase therapy of medical and physical recovery and treatment, and method of using devices or compounds which reduce onset of symptoms of median nerve entrapment or carpal tunnel syndrome or repetitive stress syndrome, reduce tactile deficit of fingers, and as well as many other applications. This includes improving the efficiency of the movement of the fingers, reducing the inflammation in the carpal canal, reducing the tendon excursion in the carpal canal, reducing finger flexion, reducing loss of nerve sensation, reducing loss of tactile sensation, increasing tactile sensitivity of the fingers, increasing movement of the dorsal interossei muscles of the hand, increasing movement of the volar interossei palmer muscles of the hand, and increasing movement of the lumbrical muscles of fingers.

Abstract: A keyboard for a handheld electronic device comprises ten keys arranged in four rows in a DTMF keypad format. Three of the keys respectively bearing numerals 1, 2 and 3 arranged in a first row, three of the keys respectively bearing numerals 4, 5 and 6 arranged in a second row, three of the keys respectively bearing numerals 7, 8 and 9 arranged in a third row, and a tenth key bearing a 0 located in a fourth row. The keys of the first second and third rows also bear letter characters which, either alone or in conjunction with additional letter character-bearing keys in the rows, are positioned relative to the letter characters on adjacent keys so as to form a QWERTY or Dvorak layout.

Abstract: An improved keypad having a plurality of keys can have linguistic elements assigned to the keys in any of a variety of arrangements depending upon various considerations.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for conveniently inputting characters with both hands and inputting characters as many as possible with a limited number of keys.

Abstract: A computer keyboard assembly includes a computer keyboard, in turn, having a housing on which a keypad is arranged. The housing defines oppositely disposed print media input and ejection slots though which print media can pass. A print media feed mechanism is located within the housing and is configured to feed the print media along a print media path between the entry and ejection slots. The feed mechanism includes an endless belt which extends around a pair of rollers and a planar member which bears against the inside of the belt. A printer is located within the housing and is configured to print upon the print media fed along the print media path.

Abstract: An electronic device with multiple body elements is configurable to predetermined fixed portrait and landscape orientations each of which define a respective different operative position. A first panel overlies at least one portion of a main body element first surface and has a surface relative to usage and is arranged for sliding engagement with the main body, whereby in a first fixed configuration at least one portion of the main body element first surface is covered and not available for usage and in the second fixed configuration said at least one portion of the main body element first surface is uncovered and available for usage.

Abstract: An ergonomic keyboard having a mount and a plurality of keys arranged in a plurality of unbroken adjacent rows is provided. Each row is comprised of an arcuate portion, a left portion, and a right portion. The left and right portions extend tangentially from the left and right sides of the arcuate portion, respectively. The arcuate portion, of each row is convex to the user side of the keyboard, and at least two keys in each arcuate portion are elongated. Alphanumeric indicia on the keys can be arranged in the QWERTY pattern.

Abstract: A keyboard comprising: at least a first keyboard portion and second keyboard portion, wherein the first keyboard portion is hingedly attached to the second keyboard portion to allow keyboard use in a flat position and an inverted V position.

Abstract: With the layout of today's computer keyboards, inputting IPv6 addresses and subnets is difficult because of the location of required characters. My invention is a computer keypad that includes all the characters required for the input of IPv6 addresses and subnets. This allows the easy input of IPv6 addresses and subnets with just one hand. Double colon (::), enter or tab keys may be included as well to facilitate input. A period (.) for IPv4 addresses is also included for backwards compatibility.

Abstract: An input device including a keypad, the keypad comprising wrist support means and curved key area. The wrist support means of each keypad comprises a generally flat portion having a plurality of soft cushioned pads protruding from the upper surface of the flat portion. The key area is contiguous to the wrist support means such that the key area has a negative convex curve. Thus in use a portion of the key area remote the wrist support means is positioned at a lower spatial position than the portion of the key area contiguous with the wrist support means. The key area has a plurality of keys positioned on the upper surface. The keys are arranged in a series of curved rows so that a central key in each row is further from the users wrist relative to at least one of the end keys in each row.

Abstract: A device includes a keyboard mechanism having a number of keys, where the keyboard mechanism individually discerns typing of each key. The keyboard mechanism defines a keyboard layout of the keys. The keyboard layout is adapted to touch-typing by a user using a single hand. The keyboard layout has a sub-number of the keys of the keyboard mechanism organized over a number of columns within a center portion of the keyboard layout. The columns are organized around an imaginary vertical line running through the center portion of the keyboard layout. The sub-number of the keys are larger in size than a majority of other keys of the keyboard mechanism.

Abstract: In a multi-function electronic device, consists of a display mounted on the device and a two part cover with each cover part slidable on the device in opposite directions for covering and exposing the display. The two part cover is equipped with a full function keyboard.

Abstract: A compact input device (104), suitable for entering data in an electronic device (102), includes a cylindrical surface (202) that has a keyboard switch matrix (210) deployed on the outer body of the cylindrical surface (202) formed by a first extendable interlocking part (402) and a second extendable interlocking part (404). The first extendable interlocking part (402) includes a left half of a QWERTY keyboard (e.g., Q, W, E, R, T) while the second extendable interlocking part (404) includes a right half of a QWERTY keyboard (e.g., Y, U, I, O, P). When the compact input device (104) is in an extended and aligned configuration, the keys of the first extendable interlocking part (402) and the keys of the second extendable interlocking part (404) form a common QWERTY keyboard configuration.

Abstract: A small form-factor keyboard or keypad for key structures is provided in which individual key structures have a contact surface on which there is a center reference and a peak. The center reference and the peak or offset, so that an offset distance between the center reference and the peak is greater than or equal to zero. The offset distance for at least two or more key structures in the plurality of key structures may different. The difference in the offset distance may be based on a position of the individual key structures relative to a first reference line.

Abstract: A stand-alone, book-shaped compact size ergonomic computer keyboard is introduced in the invention. All the alphabetic, number and symbol keys are placed on the back side of the keyboard that are off sight of the operator, The positions of the keys are illustrated by print of key indicia in the front side of the keyboard so the operator can locate the keys. The layout of the keys is suitable for touch typing from the back side but still keeps most of the fingering of QWERTY layout. The F1 to F12 keys, arrow keys and page control keys are placed on the upper part of the front side of keyboard to be operated by thumbs. The ‘Space’, ‘Backspace,’ ‘Return’, ‘Shift’, ‘Ctrl’, ‘Alt’, ‘Caps lock’, ‘Tab’, ‘Fn’, ‘Esc’ and ‘Delete’ keys can be allocated onto four predefined key zones on the keyboard surface in different arrays and combinations. A cursor tracking device (mouse) is also integrated in the keyboard.

Abstract: In one aspect, an apparatus for character entry on an electronic device, comprising: a keyboard with one row of keys; and an electronic device in communication with the keyboard; wherein one or more keys on the keyboard has a correspondence with a plurality of characters, wherein the plurality of characters on at least one of said keys includes at least one letter character and one non-letter character, and wherein the correspondence enables touch typing.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, systems, and media for generating characters for electronic devices using condensed keyboards are disclosed. Embodiments comprise a method of manipulating a set of keys adapted to be manipulated using fingers of a left hand and a right hand of a user, each of the keys capable of generating multiple characters. A variation of the method includes using one or more keys adapted to be used by thumbs of the user to generate other characters and/or control characters. Other embodiments comprise keyboards, apparatuses, and portable electronic devices that comprise two sets of keys for manipulation and desired character generation. The keyboards generally have four or more keys for each hand, and the keyboards may be located on the back and/or sides of portable the systems.

Abstract: A keyboard comprising: at least a first keyboard portion and second keyboard portion, wherein the first keyboard portion is hingedly attached to the second keyboard portion to allow keyboard use in a flat position and an inverted V position.

Abstract: A plurality of embodiments of improved ergonomic keyboards for interfacing with a user's arms, wrists, hands and fingers in a more natural way, i.e., in ways that are optimally suited to human typing. In various non-limiting embodiments, the invention provides optimal finger pressing angles, provides optimal range(s) for “gable” angling, flattens the outer edges of the gable, thins key patterns of split key arrangements, raises (or lowers) the wrist rest to an optimal position, and/or splits the wrist rest into two (or more) components.

Abstract: A staggered keyboard for use with a portable device is provided. The staggered keyboard includes a plurality of keys arranged into a plurality of rows of keys. For each row of keys, the labeling of the keys is arranged in either a linear or an arced relationship depending upon the key layout, but the key centers are staggered from key to key along at least two distinct reference lines or arcs so that adjacent keys can be placed in overlapping and/or contiguous configurations thereby minimizing the size of the keyboard layout. By staggering the key centers while maintaining a familiar layout of the key labels, typing efficiency can be maintained while the overall size of the keyboard is reduced.

Abstract: A one-piece keyboard includes a compressible body having a plurality of depressible key areas, each associated with a first spring constant, and a wrist support area of the body associated with a second spring constant. By selecting appropriate spring constants, stresses on a user's fingers, hands and wrists may be reduced.

Abstract: An ergonomic keyboard as shown in FIG. 3A for use with a stationary palm wherein the keys (15) of the keyboard are actuated only by motion of the joints in the digits. The keyboard may have a thumb region (20), a palm rest region (8) and a hypothenar rest region which are discrete parts and are adjustable relative to one another along a longitudinal axis. Some keys may be actuated by the back surface of the digits. The keyboard may be on an upper portion (2) which is mounted on a base (1) such that three dimensional rotational adjustment is possible between the upper portion and base. The position of the keyboard relative to a user may be adjusted. The spacing of the keys on the keyboard may be spaced at different intervals and have different forces for actuation.

Abstract: A keyboard apparatus has two rows of multi-function keys that together bear actuation indicia for the numerals 0-9 and the letters A-Z. The actuation indicia preferably defines four rows of characters, including a first row of characters that include the numerals 0-9, and further including second, third, and fourth rows of characters that together include the letters A-Z. Summarized differently, the keyboard apparatus has rows of multi-function keys bearing actuation indicia for the numerals 0-9 and the letters A-Z. The keys in each row are vertically staggered, from the perspective of a top view in which the rows are horizontal, to define circular arrays of keys within the rows of keys. An independent feature of the keyboard apparatus is a circular array of at least six multi-function keys having triangular peripheral shapes pointing radially inward.

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 typing keyboard is provided for minimizing non-productive hand movements. The keyboard comprises a plurality of keys for entering alphanumeric text, the keys being positioned according to a conventional keyboard layout, and at least one modifier key for assigning commonly-used keyboard functions to predetermined ones of the keys positioned near a normal resting position of a user's typing fingers.

Abstract: A keyboard of reduced size is provided in which multiple characters are assigned to each of the primary keys. The selection of the characters to be assigned to each specific primary key is based on the touch typing rules associated with a specific standardized keyboard, preferably allowing at least three rows of keys to be reduced to a single row of keys. A disambiguating system is used to interpret which of the characters and/or symbols assigned to a particular key is intended, typically by applying a set of disambiguating rules to generated input sequences.

Abstract: A convertible computer keyboard has two sections, a QWERTY typing and a key/numpad section. The sections are configured to be used as a single unit or independently of one another. Connection of the sections is made possible by the use of a channeled track or equivalent connection system, which allows a rigid attachment of the key/numpad section on either side of the QWERTY section. The sections of the keyboard can also be connected as a unit or used separately, with wireless connectors which transmit electronic input signals to the computer. As a result of its convertible nature, the keyboard has the flexibility to be configured in a number of ways, thus ergonomically enhancing keyboard use and versatility, especially for video gamers.

Abstract: A key array for a keyboard is provided having an input key section including a plurality of input keys. Each input key has a left key part, a central key part, and a right key part. A left control key is positioned on a left side of the input key section so as to convert a mode of the keyboard into a right key input mode so that the right key part is operated when a user presses the key input section. A right control key is positioned on a right side of the input key section so as to convert the mode of the keyboard into a left key input mode so that the left key part is operated when the user presses the key input section. A shift key section including two shift keys is aligned on both sides of the keyboard adjacent to the left and right control keys in order to attain additional functions of the keyboard when the shift keys are pressed simultaneously with the input key section.

Abstract: A keyboard for a computer system is provided. The keyboard comprises a housing having an upper surface defining an opening for a plurality of keys, a printer assembly positioned on a print media transport path within the housing, a print media entry slot defined in a first side of the housing, a print media ejection slot defined in a second side of the housing opposite the first side, a printer controller circuit positioned within the housing; and a serial bus for communicating with the computer system. The serial bus is operatively connected to the printer controller circuit. In use, print commands are received by the printer controller circuit from the computer system via the serial bus.

Abstract: An adjustable wearable ergonomic split keyboard and mouse data input device is provided that includes two hand modules. Data and command input keys are provided in each module and arranged on fingerlike components which are attached to a palm support structure . Each key mounted on top of a fingerlike component is generally adjustable to the operator's wish and may be locked at a preferred position. A thumb section, located adjacent to the operator forefinger position, comprises a thumb support structure, a pointing device and a relatively flat area which may include the spacebar key or a group of command keys. The palm support is shaped with angles and curves which provide counter pressure points to the palm. Straps and arm support components are optionally attached to the keyboards for wearability.

Abstract: A computer system is provided comprising a computer, a keyboard peripheral of the computer, and a pagewidth printer peripheral of the computer. The pagewidth printer is disposed within a housing of the keyboard.

Abstract: A method for evaluating an input system interfacing a human user with an electronic device uses empirically determined bi-action times for users to perform a second input action (e.g., pressing a second key) immediately after performing a first input action (e.g., pressing a first key). The bi-action times (or, more generally, n-action times) are used together with a selected interface map which associates input actions (e.g., pressing keys) to corresponding signifiers (e.g., characters) to calculate a peak expert input rate for the input system. One or more optimized interface maps can be found by combining the evaluation method with any of various optimization strategies. For example, one method for optimizing the input system repeatedly changes the interface map and recalculates the peak expert input rate, while another optimization method calculates peak expert input rates for multiple interface maps in parallel.

Abstract: There is a need to develop a more sophisticated educational system of keyboard set ups for not only the disabled population from their worker's compensation injuries but for the entire continuum of keyboard, keypad and mouse users nationally and internationally for the prevention of computer related injuries. Due to the rising medical costs associated with upper extremity sprains and strains and more importantly, carpal tunnel syndrome, design companies are making ergonomic changes in the mouse, keyboard design. However, these changes are being made without regard for the user's dominance. Now a long term solution has been invented based on two simple tests by noted researchers. The dual system of keyboard/keypad, mouse or calculator input device selection based on the computer users human factors of dominance will have a decided impact on the reduction of computer related work force injuries or for other people with disabilities.

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 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: A hand-held electronic device with a keyboard optimized for use with the thumbs is disclosed. In order to operate within the limited space available on a hand-held electronic device, the present invention optimizes the placement and shape of the keys, preferably using keys that are oval or oblong in shape, and that are placed at angles designed to facilitate thumb-typing. The angles at which keys on either side of the keyboard are placed is complimentary.

Abstract: A staggered keyboard for use with a portable device is provided. The staggered keyboard includes a plurality of keys arranged into a plurality of rows of keys. For each row of keys, the labeling of the keys is arranged in either a linear or an arced relationship depending upon the key layout, but the key centers are staggered from key to key along at least two distinct reference lines or arcs so that adjacent keys can be placed in overlapping and/or contiguous configurations thereby minimizing the size of the keyboard layout. By staggering the key centers while maintaining a familiar layout of the key labels, typing efficiency can be maintained while the overall size of the keyboard is reduced.

Abstract: A portable computer having a main computer body and a display unit which is slidably attached to the main computer body and movable to various vertical positions up and away from the computer main body.

Abstract: A reduced keyboard system (100), with a reduced number of keys (13, 15, 23, 25, 102, 104, 106, 108, 110, 112), but retaining the typing map of the conventional QWERTY or QWERTY-type keyboard by employing an intuitive and learning database engine. A plurality of letters, numerals, symbols and functions are assigned to a set of data keys, buttons or data inputs (multi-character keys). The arrangement of the multi-character keys together with the character assignments to the individual multi-character keys allows a user to use the same typing map, as when typing on a conventional QWERTY or QWERTY-type keyboard, be it visual mapping (i.e. physical location of keys) or finger mapping (i.e. touch typing for typist). This enhances the typing experience on the reduced keyboard system to have the same feeling, typing rhythm and speed as typing on a conventional QWERTY or QWERTY-type keyboard.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic device and a method for managing the keyboard of the electronic device. The electronic device comprises a keyboard and a processing unit connected to the keyboard over a data transmission connection, the processing unit being configured to determine the appearance of the keyboard, receive information generated by pressing of a keyboard key and identify the key that was pressed on the basis of the information. The processing unit is also configured to collect information on the key presses and carry out an analysis of them, and to re-determine the appearance of the keyboard on the basis of the collected information and the analysis carried out so as to make the keyboard more ergonomic for the user, which makes the use of the keyboard easier and/or the pressing of a wrong key less likely.

Abstract: A soft keyboard includes at least three rows of keys wherein a middle row is located near the center of the keyboard. The middle row includes vowel keys, and an upper row and a lower row include consonant keys. The consonant keys and the vowels keys are arranged in alphabetical order. At least one of the three rows of keys further includes at least one of the space key, the enter key, and the delete key. Another soft keyboard includes a first ring of keys around a central key, and a second ring of keys around the first ring of keys. The central key may be the enter key. The first ring of keys includes vowel keys arranged in alphabetical order. The first ring of keys may include the space key and the delete key. The second ring of keys includes consonant keys arranged in alphabetical order.

Abstract: This invention provides novel keyboards comprising keys disposed such that they minimize the distance a finger typically must travel to effect a keystroke and the force that is applied to effect a keystroke. Accordingly the keyboards require less arm and finger movement to and thereby reduce the likelihood of an operator developing a repetitive stress injury (RSI). In one embodiment the keyboards comprise a plurality of keys disposed such that the alphanumeric keys form a continuous key array defining a key array surface having at least two concave regions wherein a plurality of keys present irregular and/or non-rectilinear striking faces.

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 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 in 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 multi-touch system is disclosed that recognizes simultaneous touchdown of four fingers on, above, or below the home row of keys as a modifier chord and applies modifiers such as Shift, Ctrl, or Alt to subsequent touch activity until none of the chord fingertips remain touching. Touches by the thumb of the modifier chord hand that occur before any modifiable typing or clicking activity cause the modifier chord to be canceled and reinterpreted as hand resting. The Shift modifier may be released temporarily during thumb keypresses that are intermixed with typing of capitalized characters. Distributing the modifier chord touches across different zones or key rows selects multiple modifiers. In an alternative embodiment, different modifiers can be selected with different arrangements of the fingers relative to one another within the chord, irrespective of absolute hand alignment with the touch surface.