Abstract: A keytop of keyboard is proposed. The keyboard has a main typing area on which a plurality of key tops is placed. The key tops are divided into a plurality of rows by a plurality of horizontal lines. The key tops are divided into a left-hand section and a right-hand section with a centerline of the keyboard as a border. Each key top in the left-hand section is of quadrilateral shape with right-shifted topside and left-shifted bottom side; each key top in the right-hand section is of quadrilateral shape with left-shifted topside and right-shifted bottom side.

Abstract: A multifunction keyboard accessory may be coupled to a keyboard. In an initial position, the multifunction keyboard accessory may function as a keyboard cover that inhibits unintentional activation of keys and protects the keyboard from spills and entry of other material between the keyboard keys. The multifunction keyboard accessory may be rotated from the initial position so that the keyboard accessory functions as a document holder. Alternately, the multifunction keyboard accessory may slide forward to function as a palmrest/wrist support.

Abstract: A portable electronic device has a keypad for entering alphanumeric characters including a plurality of single contact keys and a multi-way shift key. A character is entered by actuating a single contact key (2) alone or in combination with the multi-way shift key (3). The multi-way shift key (3) may be a four-way rocker switch, with each single contact key having five character labels, four of which are arranged to indicate the direction in which the rocker switch should be actuated to enter the corresponding character.

Abstract: An ergonomic computer keyboard which integrates conventional keyboard features to form a Multi-Dexterous Keyboard (MDK) system designed to minimize Repetitive Stress Injuries. Specific emphasis is placed on the general and simultaneous utilization by either a single or dual handed, full or limited dexterity, and right and left oriented keyboard user. The ergonomic computer keyboard system is described as a solid and/or split contoured keyboard with centralized composite keys disposed thereon to reduce finger reach within one-hand span. Language characteristics are statistically extrapolated and arranged based on the most used letters or groups Of letters in the form of digraphs (coupled letters) and trigraphs (tripled letters, etc.) for efficient utilization of the keyboard via either a dual or single handed user. A special partition of the keyboard provides numerous ergonomic arrangements with simultaneous use as either a Left-Hand-Side (LHS) or Right-Hand-Side computer keyboard module.

Abstract: The present invention provides a folding keyboard comprising a fixed key module and more than one mobile key modules. The key modules are joined together by links between them. Two ends of the links between the key modules are joined at asymmetric positions. The mobile key module can turn 180 degrees to burrow against the fixed key module to form a folding keyboard capable of being frontally folded, showing a whole arrangement of keys after unfolded, and being used immediately after unfolded. Moreover, the folding keyboard of the present invention can be relatively shrunk to reduce the thickness, and can be designed to be a triply-folded or quadruply-folded structure.

Abstract: A hand-held electronic device with a keyboard, thumbwheel, display and associated software is optimized for use of the device with the thumbs. The associated software has a plurality of features to optimize efficient use of the limited keyboard space and encourage the use of the device by thumb-based data entry through the thumbwheel and/or through a combination of minimal number of keystrokes. Software features include international character scrolling, and auto-capitalization. The keys on the device keyboard are optimally shaped and configured for thumb-based input. In addition, the thumbwheel is inclined between the front and a side edge of the device so as to be reachable by either the thumb or index finger of the user's hand at the side edge of the device.

Abstract: A keyboard has an array of central keys positioned in a generally planar configuration and an array of inwardly-angled keys positioned around and angled toward the central keys to define a pan-like configuration. The keyboard may also comprise an array of outside keys positioned around the inwardly-angled keys. The keyboard may have one or more outwardly angled keys positioned around and angled away from the central keys. The outwardly angled keys are adapted to be accessible by a user's thumb, little finger or side of a hand. A keyboard, adapted for use with one hand, comprise four rows of five central keys forming a rectangular outer boundary. Two columns and two rows of 5 inwardly-angled keys surround the central keys. The character-key allocation of the pan-shaped keyboard adapted for use with one hand comprises the re-arrangement of the 3 main rows of 10 keys of a standard keyboard standard.

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 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 portable electronic device, such as a portable computer, a personal digital assistant and a mobile telephone handset, includes a main board module having opposite first and second sides, and a keyboard module mounted on and coupled electrically to the main board module. The first side of the main board module is formed with an opening and a keyboard receiving cavity that extends from the opening toward the second side. The keyboard module is received in the keyboard receiving cavity and is capable of being pulled to extend out of the keyboard receiving cavity via the opening. As such, other control devices, such as a touch control panel and a pen input panel, can be provided on a third side of the main board module that interconnects the first and second sides.

Abstract: The invention relates to a keyboard for desktop and portable computers. The keys of the keyboard are disposed as a single block of rows of juxtaposed keys, laid out on top of one another, in that all numeric keys are grouped in a single compact zone integrated to the block. Thus, keys such as punctuation, calculation and direction keys are grouped by family of function, in compact zones integrated to the block. The invention can be used for computers and portables.

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: To provide a keyboard having a home position for control keys such as cursor keys. A notebook personal computer includes a region in which a plurality of keys such as character keys and control keys are disposed and a palm rest 53 adjacent to the plurality of keys. Cursor keys 65, 67, 69, and 71, which belong to the control keys, are disposed adjacently to the palm rest and a slanted region 101 distinguishable by touch from the main surface of the palm rest is provided in a place adjacent to the cursor keys as their home position. Because the slanted region 101 is locatable with tactile sensation, the touch typing of the cursor keys is enabled.

Abstract: A device and a method are disclosed for creating a virtual keyboard, mouse, or position detector. The device is an electronic keyboard that detects the position of a user's finger. The position of a user's fingers are detected by sending out a light beam parallel to the surface of, for example, a desk, and then detecting the position of a user's finger as the light beam is blocked by the finger. The position and movement of the user's fingers determine which key is to be struck or in which direction to move the pointer.

Abstract: A keyboard, for example, for engineering purposes derived from a tradition typewriter where alphanumeric keyboards for use in potable computer, control units etc., and more particularly to alphanumeric keyboards for switching the number key from the right side to the left side on the keyboard. The characteristics of the keyboard includes a numeric key pad located on the left side of the keyboard so that it can either be set for left hand touch pad control, or for depression of conventional keys on a keyboard and simultaneously set for right hand control of a mouse, including moving the mouse and clicking on one of the mouse buttons. During the time a user is working on the keyboard, it is particularly adapted to the specific use of the keypad numerical portion of the keyboard by the left hand and a mouse by the right hand and is especially useful for use by an engineer.

Abstract: A multifunctional keyboard consists of a keyboard body which has two sides respectively which each has a slide channel and a wrist guarding pad which includes an upper lid, a first wing plate and a second wing plate. The two wing plates are respectively located on a lower side of two edges of the upper lid, and have respectively an inner side at the front end mounting a slide element to couple with the slide channel of the keyboard body. The inner side at the front end of the first wing plate connects the slide element through an universal joint.

Abstract: The present invention an ergonomic keyboard designed for inputting data wherein said keyboard comprises; a keyboard housing; a plurality of four position finger boxes mounted in said housing and arranged conformably to receive finger tips of a users hand, wherein said finger boxes are responsive to no movement, depression, contraction and extension of said fingertips corresponding to at least 4 distinct finger box positions namely: neutral, downward, backward, and forward respectively. The keyboard further has a processor for assigning letters, numerals, symbols and functions to each of said positions of said finger boxes; and contacts at each of the positions of each of said finger boxes such that a unique signal is produced for each position of said finger boxes.

Abstract: A keyboard arrangement with a pair of angularly disposed, spaced apart groups of character keys dedicated for operating use respectively by the left hand and the right hand of a user. A space bar key is operable by either thumb of the user and bridges between the two groups of character keys. The rows of keys in each group are staggered, and each key bears character indica disposed at an angle to the transverse direction of its group of keys.

Abstract: A key assembly for a keypad is disclosed. The key assembly is arranged to operate each of three switches. The key assembly has a key and pivot members which provide respective pivot axes about which the key is pivotable for operation of respective ones of the switches.

Abstract: A work station includes a work table and chair defining a work station geometry. A plurality of adjustable elements are utilized within the work station to facilitate the variation of the work station geometry. A controller is coupled to the adjustable elements of the work station to apply gradual long term motion profile signals to the adjustable elements of the work station. The work station geometry is varied in response t the imposition of the motion profile signals upon the adjustable elements of the work station to provide substantially imperceptible changes of the work station operator's physical position to avoid or minimize the many maladies associated with restricted or limited motion operation within work stations. Further, a continuous passive motion keyboard is provided to change the keyboard positioning relative to the keyboard user.

Abstract: A key top assembly integrated with a film, wherein: a plurality of key tops can be placed inside one frame; and a resin film 13 which connects the body of a circumferential outer key top 1 to the body of a core key top 2 placed inside the body of the above-mentioned outer key top is formed into a bent shape at a position lower than the lower ends of the areas where the resin film is bonded to the bodies of the key tops, or the interior portion of the base of the body of the outer key top is cut out with the result that that the interior portion of the base is formed at a position higher than that of the exterior portion of the base; and whereby: the clearance between the key tops is rendered small; no key top interlocks with any adjacent key top; and a good appearance is presented.

Abstract: A personal computing device comprises a chassis having a top and a bottom and a keyboard movably secured to the chassis. The keyboard includes a pair of laterally spaced arms with each arm having a connector that projects therefrom and confined within an elongated slot formed on the side of the chassis. This enables the keyboard to move between three different positions: (1) a closed position where the keyboard lies adjacent the top of the chassis, (2) an open position where the keyboard extends outwardly from the chassis, and (3) a stowed position where the keyboard lies adjacent the bottom of the chassis. Both the chassis and keyboard include IR ports that enable the keyboard to communicate with the chassis, thereby eliminating a wire connection between the chassis and keyboard.

Abstract: A keyboard layout for a one-handed keypad having fifteen alphabetic keys. Each key has a primary letter and a secondary letter. The primary letter is keyed by solely striking the key, while the secondary letter requires striking a secondary key first or simultaneously with the primary alphanumeric key. The layout placement minimizes finger travel and keystrokes to generate the most common letters and digraphs in the English language.

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 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: An electronic keyboard having an improved ergonomic design for use with computers and other alphanumeric input electronic devices is disclosed. Repetitive motion stress on a typist's hands, wrists and fingers is substantially reduced by relocating and centering the ENTER and BACKSPACE keys to a location central to the keyboard so as to be index finger activated, with the ENTER key extending up into the home row, thereby reducing wrist flexure. The alphanumeric keys are disposed in an ortholinear array, with substantially vertical columns and substantially horizontal rows and functional keys are grouped into rationally apportioned areas below the alphanumeric keys of the keyboard. Certain of the keys have up to three different functions, depending upon whether the keyboard is in QWERTY mode, Dvorak mode, or numeric keypad mode.

Abstract: An ergonomic keyboard assembly arranged for providing input to an existing keyboard device having a plurality of keys that are moveable relative to a frame. The ergonomic keyboard comprises means for attaching the ergonomic keyboard assembly to the existing keyboard device. The ergonomic keyboard assembly further comprises a plurality of keys mounted to the support surface, the keys being arranged in first and second key sections. The first key section carries thereon keys adapted for operation by fingers of one of the operator's right and left hands. The first key section is spatially separated from the second key section. The second key section carries thereon keys adapted for operation by fingers of the other of the operator's right and left hands. The ergonomic keyboard assembly also comprises a plurality of actuation mechanisms respectively linked with the plurality of keys mounted to the support surface.

Abstract: A keyboard apparatus has keys for operation by a user. The keyboard includes a first plurality of keys being coupled to electrical generator apparatus for generating electricity from their operation. A second plurality of the keys is not coupled to electrical generator apparatus. The first plurality of keys exhibits a greater average statistical frequency of usage per key than does the second plurality.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a keypad (25) for an electronic device including a plurality of fingers (26,27,28) having a splayed open configuration and a plurality of keys (31) on each finger (26,27,28). The fingers (26,27,28) are moved into a closed configuration when the keypad 25 is installed in said electronic device such that a key (31) on at least one finger (26,27,28) is positioned in close proximity or is contiguous to a key (31) on an adjacent finger (26,27,28).

Abstract: A superior portable information terminal of the palm size having a keyboard unit wherein the portable information terminal includes a polyhedral structure having a number of component faces including a first component face which accommodates a display screen and a second component face provided adjacent the first component face and having an inputting key set including a number of key tops arranged in a zigzag pattern. Each of the key tops has a rib-like projection formed along a peripheral edge thereof. In an operation condition wherein a user holds the portable information terminal with one hand and observes the display screen, the user can perform key inputting operation using the fingertips of the hand with which the body of the apparatus is held. Further, the user can search for the location of any key through the sense of touch on the rib-like projection or projections obtained from a fingertip.

Abstract: In a keyboard input unit whose cover member covering the top of a keyboard body is divided into at least a first segment and a second segment, the segments are foldably connected by a connecting section. The connecting section has: a first cylindrical part with a through hole provided on the first segment; a second cylindrical part provided on the second segment and having at one end a pin stopping section, the second cylindrical part being arranged on substantially the same axial line as the first cylindrical part; a connecting pin inserted from the first cylindrical part through the second cylindrical part; and an elastic stopper formed integrally with the first segment or the second segment in a position on the first cylindrical part contrary to the second cylindrical part.

Abstract: Family or series of compatible keyboards for computers, etc., progressively modifies Standard, introducing new standard keyboard (191) with rationalized logic, everything integrated into alphanumeric section (FIG. 19). Existing skills are entrenched. Radical change is unworkable. Standardization prevents undirected piecemeal change. This invention ends deadlock, provides direction, enables change by: versatility, allowing partial change for any market niche; compatibility, allowing transfer of new skills to new standard; transitional models teaching such skills; multi-mode models for different operators; ultimate universal design optimized for adults, children, novices and experts. Keyboard (71) has reversible segment (73) selecting traditional or symmetrical columns (FIG. 7). Same feature on fixed keys (FIG. 14) integrates central cursor keys (144). Symmetrical keyboard conforms to existing Standard (FIG. 13). Top row eliminated by selecting numerals on home row (FIG. 17).

Abstract: Method and system to determine an initial suitable configuration of an adjustable keyboard is provided. This system may include a pronation gauge wherein the pronation gauge has a readable scale and the readable scale is adapted to indicate a specific degree of pronation for the user's hand depending upon a specific resting orientation of the user's hand within the gauge. This method may include measuring the resting pronation position of the user's first hand and then adjusting the pronation orientation of the ergonomic adjustable keyboard to a position that coincides with the measurement of the pronation position of the user's hand.

Abstract: A keyboard for a notebook computer, personal computer, Personal Data Assistance computer or a game having two keyboard sections. In one embodiment the sections are fixedly mounted on the underside of the chassis of the device and the keys are arranged with half the keys on one section and half the keys are on the other section and positioned such that each key is in a natural position corresponding to the position of the keys when one is typing on a conventional keyboard. In another embodiment, each section is hingeably attached to an edge of the keyboard and the keyboard may be used in one position where the sections extend from the keyboard and face the user an another position where the sections are folded against the backside of the chassis of the device.

Abstract: In an electronic apparatus, a pressing of keys other than a print key is detected when the key is continuously in a pressed state for at least two periods in a key scan period. The pressing of the print key is detected when the print key is continuously in the pressed state for at least ten periods in the key scan period. This structure prevents the print key from triggering a print operation if it is accidentally pressed.

Abstract: A keyboard data input device includes a one-hand module having a finger section with groups of keys each of which fixedly assigned to a finger of the operator. The keyboard has a cover part which includes a palm rest section and grooves. A group of keys is sequentially arranged at the ground of said grooves to be reached by the outstretched or bent fingers when the operator's hand is in contact with the palm rest section. A thumb section located adjacent to the forefinger groove comprises a flat area which includes groups of command keys, and comprises further keys at an upright wall adjacent to the forefinger groove. The keyboard may be used for two-hand operation by providing two separate one-hand modules. The keyboard comprises a graphical multipurpose display visualize control information and characters typed in. The keyboard may further include a bar code scanner.

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 low profile, miniature notebook computer has a base portion, a monitor portion and a display monitor which is pivotally mounted to the monitor portion. The base portion and the monitor portion are movable relative to one another between retracted and deployed positions. The computer also has a keyboard with keys which are divided between the base and monitor portions. As the monitor portion is deployed, it shifts to the left and forward relative to the stationary base portion. The monitor portion may be manually or automatically shifted between positions. The computer also has a base plate with a stationary support foot which is flush with the rear edge of the main body of the machine when it is in the retracted position, but which extends beyond the rear edge of the main body of the machine when it is in the deployed position.

Abstract: A computer keyboard connected with a computer for instruction and information input, the keyboard comprises the numeric keys, letter keys, function keys and symbolic keys. Only one set of numeric keys is arranged, and the set of numeric keys are arranged in the middle part of the keyboard, the letter keys are separated into two sets by the numeric keys, the two sets of letter keys lie on the left and right sides of the numeric keys respectively. The letter keys have the same order as those on a conventional keyboard, both sets of the letter keys are arranged slantwise; the function keys and symbolic keys are arranged in a left-right balanced manner. The keyboard of the invention makes a break through at the arrangement of the keys, it is easy to remember by human brain and convenient to operate, and can speed up the input speed and reduce typing error.

Abstract: A method for operating a keyboard for a hand-held computer. In one embodiment, the keyboard includes first and second portions that are removably coupled to each other. The method can include removably coupling the second portion to one part of the first portion to block access to input keys of the first portion, and can further include removably attaching the second portion to another part of the first portion to allow access to the input keys, forming a full-size keyboard for a hand-held device. The second portion can be inverted to allow access to input keys on either a top or bottom surface of the second portion, and can also be pivoted relative to the first portion about an axis that is generally perpendicular to an upper surface of the first portion.

Abstract: Two pivoting portions of a product are connected by a hinged detent. The hinged detent provides a snap feel when the product halves are closed or opened to an operable angle. It also allows for the placement of wires and connectors within the hinge. The hinged detent design further enables easy vertical axis assembly and provides for one of a multiple of operable angles to be factory-set. In adjustable hinge detents, a dial or similar mechanism can be rotated to adjust and set the desired operable angle to which the hinged product halves will be opened. Locating elements are forcibly disengaged from one set of adjusting recesses in the adjustable hinge, then rotated to different adjusting recesses of the hinge, and finally permitted to reengage the adjustable hinge in the new adjusting recesses. This mechanism permits a multitude of operable angles to be selected. Each time the product portions are reopened, they will automatically open to the previously selected angle.

Abstract: A keyboard comprising a plurality of Alpha-Numeric keys, a plurality of Direction keys and a Backspace key, a Delete key or a Enter key is provided. The plurality of Direction keys includes →,←,↑,⇓ keys to form an area of Direction keys. The Backspace key, a Delete key or a Enter key is disposed adjacent to the area of Direction keys for allowing a user's fingers to move between Direction keys and Backspace key, a Delete key or a Enter key without moving the palm.

Abstract: An attachment to or a keyboard itself or other devices which require extending the fingers and hands so as to reach keys of the device. The invention includes at least one key pillow. The key pillow either replaces or fits over at least one key of a keyboard or other such device to advantageously alter the consistency, texture, shape, or height of the traditional key to which the key pillow corresponds. The key pillow is shaped so as to extend into the comfort zone of a user to thereby minimize the stretching and twisting required of the user's fingers, hands, wrists, and arms. The key pillow may be applied to a keyboard of a portable computer, where the at least one key pillow is inflatable. The at least one key pillow may also be applied to devices such as a computer mouse. The key pillow must extend into a comfort zone of the user. Also, a palm rest is designed so as to maintain the user's hands at a certain height above the lip of the keyboard, which may or may not include key pillows.

Abstract: An ergonomic housing for a handheld device is provided. The device includes an ergonomic housing that is shaped to fit comfortably in the palm of a human hand, while simultaneously allowing fingered tactile operation of a set of key members on the face and lateral portions of the housing. The device is particularly useful for one-handed operation of portable devices utilizing a keypad where operation of such a device using two hands is not desirable. The position of keys on the housing facilitates minimal movement of both the fingers and thumb of the operator to operate the keys of the device. Such manipulation of keys may also be accomplished completely by touch, due to the uniquely shaped keys strategically placed in rows on the housing face within close proximity of the operator's natural finger positions and additional keys placed within close proximity of the operator's natural thumb position.

Abstract: A "Fn" key included in control keys is located adjacent to, for example, a first cursor movement key (for leftward movement) which is located on the right side of a space bar. A second cursor movement key (for rightward movement), a third cursor movement key (for upward movement) and a fourth cursor movement key (for downward movement) are arranged adjacent to the first cursor movement key. The arrangement of some data keys and control keys is adjusted so that the space bar can be situated in a predetermined position in the keyboard. When one of the first through fourth cursor movement keys is depressed with the Fn key depressed, a keyboard controller generates a key code with a control function corresponding to the combination of the depressed keys.

Abstract: A multiple input key for inputting characters and the key has a body with a top and bottom surface, with the bottom surface being proximal to a printed circuit board and the top surface being distal from the printed circuit board. The key is pivotable about a pivot. A pivot extends from the bottom surface of the body and has an electrical contact pad such that when the contact pad contacts one of the leads on the printed circuit board a circuit is closed. A skirt surrounds the periphery of the body of the key and the skirt operatively supports the body of the key on the printed circuit board.

Abstract: A keyboard permitting data entry with only one hand in which the keys are arranged in several clusters or banks, distinctly separated from one another. Each bank contains keys with similar functions (i.e., numerical keys, numerical function keys, alphabetic keys, punctuation keys, program function keys and screen function keys.) The bank of numerical keys are arranged in four (4) rows of keys with three (3) keys in each row. The numerical keys are arranged in numerical sequence from left to right and bottom to top. The bank of alphabet keys are arranged in seven (7) rows of keys with four (4) keys in each row. The alphabet keys are in alphabetical sequence from left to right and bottom to top. Banks of various other keys are also arranged to be easily operated with one hand.

Abstract: An ergonomic keyboard where the preferred embodiment is mound shaped and curved toward the operator. The left and right sides (36, 36') angle down and flatten out to form a hand rest area (80, 80'), allowing the hands (20, 20') to rest on the padded portion opposite the thumb. When in this position, the hands of the operator will clutch the mound shape, with fingers reaching to the back to activate alphabetic (72, 58) and numeric keys (78, 64) arranged in QWERTY format. The thumbs (38, 38') rest over spacing keys (84, 84') on the front face (22). A mouse control (44), lesser-used function keys, direction keys (42), and other symbols, are arranged conveniently on the front face (22), in view of the operator. The keyboard can be conveniently used on the operator's lap or on a desktop. The resulting natural and relaxed position of the fingers, wrists (34, 34'), arms (12, 12'), and shoulders (14), reduces the likelihood of carpal tunnel syndrome or other repetitive stress injuries.

Abstract: An ergonomic, efficient unitary pyramidal-shaped data entry device includes left and right hand members separated from each other by a thumb control surface. Each hand member is formed with four cavities for receiving the four fingers of the left and right hands, respectively, of a user, with the user's thumbs being juxtaposed with the thumb control surface. Each cavity contains three switches, with one switch being operated when the user extends the appropriate finger, a second being operated when the user depresses the finger, and a third being operated when the user retracts the finger. Each switch generates a signal representative of a character of a character set, with thumb switches being operable by the user's thumbs to invoke one of a plurality of sets. The sets include a character set that mimics the conventional QWERTY layout, and also include sets which represent language-optimized layouts. The device can also assume the function of a telephone and a cursor control pad.

Abstract: A new computer keyboard for allowing users to customize the positioning of their keyboards. The inventive device includes first and second keypads each having an upper surface, front and back ends and a pair of sides extending between the front and back ends. The upper surface of each of the keypads has a plurality of keys on it. In each side of each of the keypads is a socket. Each of the ends of an elongate connector cable is insertable into a socket of each of the keypads such that the connector cable electrically connects the first keypad to the second keypad.