Abstract: A keypad assembly, the keypad assembly including a keycap layer 110 having multiple user interface key caps flexibly coupled to a carrier portion, a luminescent layer 120 disposed toward a backside of the plurality of key caps, the luminescent layer carrying a plurality of switch domes each aligned with a corresponding one of the plurality of key caps of the key cap layer. In some embodiments, a backing material is applied to a backside of the user interface key caps.

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: The invention relates to a keyboard arrangement and a method for detecting an input character. In particular the invention relates to a method and arrangement for reducing the number of keys in a QWERTY-keyboard (20) or the like. One idea of the invention is to provide keys (210) with several characters and to provide alternative ways to press the key for entering a selected one of the alternative characters. The keys are preferably triangular or have three arms, and one of three characters can be selected by pressing the corresponding corner/arm of the key. The keyboard may preferably be formed of interlaced rows of keys. Linguistic disambiguation is advantageously used in addition to said mechanical disambiguation. The invention is well suited for mobile station keyboards.

Abstract: A cushioning means for placement on a computer keyboard is provided for reducing the discomfort of a typist using a keyboard and to personalize the keyboard for a typist. A pad may be attached or applied to one or more keytops of a conventional keyboard, each pad being of a self-adhesive reusable translucent gel material. The pads may be attached to the individual keys without a separate adhesive layer. The pads are translucent allowing the key identifier to remain unobstructed to a user. The pads may be used not only to cushion the keyboard, but to allow a user to personalize or decorate her keyboard. The pads may be of an assortment of colors and predetermined sizes in order to fit over the different keyboard keys. The pads may also be used to cushion or decorate other office devices including a computer mouse and a telephone keypad.

Abstract: A keyboard assembly having a housing with one or more openings in which keys are located. A circuit board is located inside the housing and adjacent to the keys such that striking the keys causes switches of the circuit board to be switched. A liquid resistant barrier is located between the keys and the circuit board, protecting the circuit board and/or other electronic components from being contacted by liquids spilled on the keyboard.

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: An actuator suitable for multi-directional actuation of a push button switch is disclosed. This actuator has an actuation button attached to a plunger to define a predetermined angle therebetween. The actuation button has a surface for multi-directional activation. The actuator also has a pair of hinge pins that is attached to the actuation button for pivotably mounting the actuator about a pivoting axis. Activation on any point on the surface of the actuation button results in a unidirectional moment about the pivoting axis to tilt the plunger to releasably actuate the push button switch. Also disclosed is a personal digital assistant that uses the actuator for actuating a notification switch from between two orthogonal directions.

Abstract: A remote keyless entry electroluminiescent (EL) device includes at least one depressible button segment for activating a vehicle function. The entry device includes an upper housing with at least one aperture in the upper housing. An EL film is integral to the upper housing for illuminating at least one display area. A printed circuit board is disposed under the upper housing. An electrical contact is provided for supplying a power source from the printed circuit board to the EL film for illumination. A lower housing is adjoined to the upper housing, the upper housing and the lower housing encasing the printed circuit board wherein the EL film is in-molded as part of the upper housing for forming a single component.

Abstract: A keystroke structure (1) comprising a baseplate with insert holes are considerably spaced; the baseplate further comprises a membrane circuit board; an electrically conductive and round in shape resilient body is on the circuit board, a first key frame and a second key frame are on the rim of the resilient body; the first key frame and the second key frame comprise two protruding hinged arms at one end and two extending posts at the other end; the posts comprise a shaft lever respectively; the shaft levers can thread insert the holes on the hood frame; furthermore, the posts comprise a protruding tubes each where they are connected with the first key frame and the second key frame; the tubes comprise a through holes each which the hinged arms thread such that the first key frame and the second key frame can be connected in “Y” shape.

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 key sheet comprising a key top, a translucent resin film, and a symbol layer. The key top is made of resin and has a top surface and a rear surface. The key top includes a gate corresponding section in a position corresponded to a gate of a mold for injecting resin to form the key top. The translucent resin film is provided over the key top. The symbol layer is disposed to associate with the top surface of the key top. The gate corresponding section is located to prevent that gate corresponding section from being viewed through the symbol layer.

Abstract: A key array structure comprises a key array constituted by connecting a plurality of key members arranged in an array, it is characterized in that an elastic element is connected between each two adjacent key members and a positioning hole or position holes is or are disposed in the key member. The elastic member disposed between each two adjacent key members of the key array structure according to the present invention has a cushioning effect to adjust the deformation of the key array caused from the processes such as heat baking while manufacturing so as to allow the positioning hole in each key member to be precisely positioned with a corresponding position pin on a relative member.

Abstract: A keyboard includes a housing having a number of passages formed by cylindrical members, a number of keys each having a shank slidably engaged in the passages of the housing, and an electromagnetic floating force generating device having a number of coils arranged to generate electromagnetic floating force and to float the keys relative to the housing. A number of magnets may be attached onto the keys and acted with the coils, to allow the keys to be floated by the electromagnetic floating force generated by the coils or the magnets. One or more fan devices may be disposed in the housing to circulate air through the keys.

Abstract: A keycap is used to display a plurality of indicia, such as Braille, pictures, etc., for use with a keyboard that interacts with an electronic device, such as a computer. The keycap includes at least one engagement member, for removably engaging with at least one activation key on a keyboard, and at least a first support structure for displaying the indicia. The first support structure is larger in at least one direction than the activation key and allows the keycap to display the indicia in a sufficiently large size to allow the keycap to display, for example, phrases, sentences, musical notation, mathematical expressions, etc. This feature allows the keycap to be compatible with a large number of software programs used to teach, for example, disabled individuals. The keycap preferably is used with a removable overlay containing the plurality of indicia that allows the keycap to be easily configured to the user's needs or the requirements of the software program.

Abstract: Computing devices and related input devices are described. In one exemplary embodiment, the computing device is a portable computing device which includes a housing and a deployable input device attached to the housing, wherein the deployable input device can be deployed from a stowed position to an extended position without changing a desktop footprint of the computing device, and wherein the deployable input device is rotatable about an axis for generating input signals.

Abstract: A keyboard cover has a rectangular transparent film made of a soft material and having an upper side, a bottom side, two long sides and two short sides. Two first reinforcing strips are formed at the bottom side and respectively at the two long sides of the film. Two second reinforcing strips are formed at the bottom side and respectively at the two short sides of the film. Two elastic strips are respectively formed beneath the first reinforcing strips. Each of the elastic strips has two ends respectively bent upwards and inwards and fastened at the corresponding corners of the film. Whereby, a user's fingers will not directly touch a covered keyboard to prevent the keyboard from being contaminated by dirt or bacteria on a user's fingers.

Abstract: A key button switch structure for use in a handheld mobile phone, comprises an input button 1 having a push-down pressure transmitting projection A1 and a button inclination preventing projection B 3 both projected from a bottom surface of the input button, integrally with the input button. Two electrodes A9 and B 10 are formed on a substrate 8 fixed to a body casing 6. A dome-like switch contact 7 is provided to be pushed down by the push-down pressure transmitting projection A1 of the input button when the input button is depressed, thereby to electrically contact both the two electrodes.

Abstract: A functional and decorative key mask is disclosed that is printable and has a uniquely functional geometry for easy and clean removable attachment to the keyfaces of a keyboard or keypad. The materials and design combine to provide a durable and reusable key mask. In the preferred embodiment, the key mask is has a body and a tab extending outward, and a pressure sensitive adhesive adhered to the back surface. It is die-cut from a face stock that is attached by the adhesive to a coated release liner. Mask sets include several key masks having similar or individualized graphic illustrations that enable the user to make unique associations with the keys of the keyboard or keypad, and thus enhance their learning, skill, performance, and enjoyment of a standard keyboard or keypad, or one having specialized key assignments.

Abstract: A keyboard includes a plurality of keys for entering information, a moving mechanism for descending and ascending each key in a direction different from a vertical direction and for maintaining an orientation of the key top, and a forcing member for forcing the moving mechanism to return the key to an original state.

Abstract: A keyboard input device equipped with a pointing device featuring excellent water-proof performance and is capable of highly precisely detecting the angle of tilt and the direction of tilt of the operation body of the pointing device. The pointing device has a cylindrical operation body erected on a base. When the base is mounted on the back surface side of the support plate, the operation body protrudes toward the key switch side penetrating through the support plate. The base is mounted on the support plate forming a gap of a size A relative to the support plate, and a water-proof rubber of a predetermined thickness is arranged in the gap of the size A to prevent the water from entering the base side of the pointing device.

Abstract: A key switch device includes inner and outer link members connected to each other to mutually move in a scissors fashion, a key top having receiving portions for receiving the support protrusions provided at respective upper ends of the link members, a hollow elastic switch provided at an inner surface thereof with a downward protrusion for performing a switching operation in accordance with vertical movement of the key top, a support plate arranged beneath the key top, a membrane arranged on the support plate, and a mounting member arranged on the membrane, a central opening for receiving the elastic switch, and fitting holes allowing the cocking members to be fitted therein.

Abstract: An expandable keyboard includes a plurality of expandable keytops, a keyswitch corresponding to each keytop and a force vectoring device arranged between each keytop and corresponding keyswitch. The force vectoring device is configured to direct force applied to any portion of the keytop to the keyswitch.

Abstract: An ergonomic keyboard. The keyboard includes a main body and first, second and third key groups disposed thereon. The third key group is arranged between the first key group and the second key group. The top surfaces of the keys of the first key group and the second key group are inclined to the third key group by a first angle, such that the keyboard can be more ergonomically sound.

Abstract: A keypad assembly utilizes touch-detecting apparatus such as force sensors or touchpad assemblies for registering key presses. In exemplary embodiments, the keypad assembly is suitable for use in electronic devices such as a mobile telephones, calculators, hand-held computers, or the like, having single piece molded housings wherein the keypad assembly is at least partially encapsulated within the housing.

Abstract: Methods and systems for an input device are described. In one exemplary embodiment, the input device can comprise a housing and a deployable input device attached to the housing. The deployable input device can be deployed from a stowed position to an extended position without changing a desktop footprint of the computing device.

Abstract: A keyboard includes a plurality of keys arranged in at least one continuous row and formed of a key member and a cover member. These members are combined by inserting positioning pins of the cover member into holes of the key member. Curved portions are provided at a plurality of positions in side support portions of the key member. Even if the cover member and the key member are produced with manufacturing errors in alignment, the curved portions may be deformed to prevent misalignment between openings on the cover member and key top portions on the key member when the positioning pins are inserted into the holes. Elastically deformable arms extending from the side support portions of the key member support the key tops and enable the key tops to move up and down.

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: In a keyboard device, a substrate is formed with multiple positioning members, each of which includes an upright first wall portion extending from one side of a punched hole, and a second wall portion connected to the first wall portion, extending toward another side of the punched hole and cooperating with the first wall portion to confine a positioning groove. Multiple key units are assembled on the substrate. Each key unit includes a base plate disposed on a membrane circuit, which is provided on the substrate. The base plate is formed with an opening to permit extension of an upright biasing member therethrough. Positioning blocks at opposite ends of the base plate engage correspondingly positioning grooves in the substrate. Each key unit further includes a foldable retaining member provided on the base plate for retaining a key cap on the base plate.

Abstract: An ergonomic keyboard. The keyboard includes a main body and first, second and third key groups disposed thereon. The third key group is arranged between the first key group and the second key group. The top surfaces of the keys of the first key group and the second key group are inclined to the third key group by a first angle, such that the keyboard can be more ergonomically sound.

Abstract: A keyboard housing for a key array of a depressible-key keyboard. A parallel guide for multi-wide keys is configured in such a way in the keyboard housing that a swiveling crank arm is limited against longitudinal displacement at both ends and, by two support ribs, is positioned in a vertical direction that its position corresponds precisely to that of the depressed multi-wide key. If the complete set of keys is inserted into the housing and pressed as far as the end stop, the swiveling crank arm latches into snap-in apertures of the multi-wide key, thus becoming functional. The keyboard housing can be used for keyboards produced by automation.

Abstract: In a keyboard device, a substrate is formed with multiple positioning members, each of which includes an upright first wall portion extending from one side of a punched hole, and a second wall portion connected to the first wall portion, extending toward another side of the punched hole and cooperating with the first wall portion to confine a positioning groove. Multiple key units are assembled on the substrate. Each key unit includes a base plate disposed on a membrane circuit, which is provided on the substrate. The base plate is formed with an opening to permit extension of an upright biasing member therethrough. Positioning blocks at opposite ends of the base plate engage correspondingly positioning grooves in the substrate. Each key unit further includes a foldable retaining member provided on the base plate for retaining a key cap on the base plate.

Abstract: A button apparatus with dual elastic elements includes a base, a key top located above the base, an elevation mechanism, and a complex elastic unit. The elevation mechanism is used to execute lifting and lowering operation between the base and the key top. The complex elastic unit, positioned between the base and the key top for providing resilience to the button apparatus, further includes a lower elastic element mounted on the base and an upper elastic element mounted under the key top. When the button apparatus is operated, an S-shaped resilience pattern can be provided by the complex elastic unit to generate a two-step punch feeling back to the user. Thereby, controllability of the button apparatus can be enhanced.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a computer keyboard having a key sensing device that provides two levels of sensing by generating electrical signals depending on the force applied on the keys. The different levels of key sensing can be used to provide different functions, for instance, in a software application. This key sensing functionality can be provided on all or only some of the keys of the keyboard. For example, the different pressure levels applied on the key can be used to control cursor movement or scrolling and to produce pressure-based shifting between lower case and upper case. A method of providing pressure sensitive key functionalities for a keyboard comprises producing a signal by applying a pressure to a key which is configured to produce different signals in response to different pressure levels applied to the key. A user interface response is generated based on the signal produced by the pressure applied to the key.

Abstract: A key structure includes a set of key tops with contact footings of retaining hooks, an upper case with a plurality of insert holes wherein contact footings of retaining hooks are moveably inserted therein and a bottom case to be assembled with the upper case; the present invention is characterized that elastic upper and lower electrode members made of metal and capable of conducting electricity are inserted between every key top and the bottom case; the depressed key top synchronously presses the upper and the lower electrode members to deform and displace to make the upper and the lower electrode members contact each other, conduct electricity and transmit signals; when the force exerted onto the key top is released, the upper and the lower electrode members recoil to disconnect each other and discontinue electric conduction; the simplified parts of the present invention and the elimination of the conventional upper and lower electric conducting membrane sheets efficiently reduce the pollution when the keyb

Abstract: Key (21) for a keyboard or keypad, having an upper finger engaging surface (2) of generally square or rectangular configurations so as to have a top edge portion (3) remote from a user, a bottom edge portion (4) adjacent the user, a left edge portion (5) and a right edge portion (6), the key further having a ridge (22) adjacent the top edge portion (3) or the bottom edge portion (4) and extending longitudinally generally parallel thereto, and a ridge on the left or right portion (5, 6). The keys may be arranged on a keyboard or keypad to provide tactile identification of rows or blocks of keys.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a stroke-limited key structure and a keyboard including the key. The key structure includes a base, a scissors-shaped member, and a cap. The scissors-shaped frame is disposed on the base, and the cap is disposed on the scissors-shaped member. The scissors-shaped frame includes a first frame and a second frame that is rotatably coupled to the first frame. The first and second frames include a first protrusion and a second protrusion. The stroke of the key is limited by using the engagement between the first and second protrusions.

Abstract: A rugged keyboard and cursor positioning device with an inherent restiveness from external fluids to interior keyboard fluid contamination. The key interrupters and cursor positioning device block optical beams for key and cursor positioning detection thus eliminating contacts and contact actuation life. When a key is in the most depressed position the key cap is against the keyboard top surface protecting all internal parts from pressure, or force from harsh use or a vandals blow.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the uses of photo luminescent glowing membrane resin characters on computer key caps, providing human beings luminescent lighting while using standard conventional computer key cap(s) in low lighting or in darkness without requiring any internal electrical component(s), circuit(s) or power(s). This includes the using of photo luminescent glowing pigments/resin in the form(s) and shape(s) of every standard letter(s), symbol(s), word(s), and number(s) to be securely fixed and adhered in configuration on the superior surface(s) of a standard QWERTY computers keyboard key cap(s).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a foldable keyboard, and more particularly, to a foldable keyboard adapted for a point stick and/or at least one hot key. Two or more keypad portions are hingably connected by a connection board on which a point stick or at least one hot key is disposed. When the keyboard is in a deployed configuration, the keypad portions slide along the keyboard plane to combine with the point stick or the hot keys so that a complete keyboard is formed. The connection board of the present invention may further include a circuit board to be electrically connected with each key and the point stick or the hot keys in order to receive and decode the signals from each key and the point stick or the hot keys.

Abstract: A keyboard input device comprises a lever-mounting plate for supporting the lower ends of a pair of lever members in an engaged manner, a circuit board on which the lever-mounting plate is placed and is forming a circuit pattern on a surface facing the lever-mounting plate, a hollow rubber spring adhered onto the circuit board, and a key top supported by the pair of lever members and is urged by the elastic urging force of the rubber spring in a direction to separate away from the circuit board, wherein the circuit board has an insulating layer for insulating and covering the circuit pattern, the insulating layer having a surface area larger than that of the lever-mounting plate permitting the lever-mounting plate to be placed thereon via an uppermost layer.

Abstract: A key unit of a keyboard apparatus having at least one bumper extending from the key unit for cushioning the impact of the key unit against the enclosure of the keyboard apparatus when the key unit assumes a depressed position and/or when the key unit resumes a non-depressed position, thereby eliminating or reducing the feedback noise, while retaining the benefits of a pre-loaded feature for the key unit.

Abstract: A keyboard structure, comprising: a substrate, a scissors mechanism, and a key lid. The scissors mechanism and the substrate are connected together. The scissors mechanism has a rotational configuration formed by cross-connecting a first rod and a second rod. The first rod has a first upper end and a first lower end. The second rod has a second upper end and a second lower end such that the first lower end and the second lower end are connected with the substrate. The key lid is connected with the first upper end and the second upper end for allowing the key lid to move between a first position, wherein the key lid and the substrate are detached, and a second position. The key lid has a base and a stop block. The base is connected with the second upper end of the scissors mechanism. The stop block is kept an appropriate distance with the base. The stop block and the base are formed into a releasing space.

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 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 button ball and alignment rib formed to a bezel mates with an aperture on a floating button cluster to align and secure the floating button cluster such that the buttons of the floating button cluster are aligned with their corresponding apertures formed in the bezel. The alignment rib has a tapered rib disposed upon it and upon the tapered rib is formed a semi-spherical ball reinforced by an enlarged post that is formed from the bezel to the semi-spherical ball. A plurality of apertures are formed in the floating button cluster, one of which receives the semi-spherical ball and retains it once it has passed through the aperture.

Abstract: A keyboard with liquid-draining function, at least including: keys, elastic body layer, circuit board layer, bottom board and sealing layer; wherein the bottom board is installed with at least a liquid-draining hole, with the dividing mechanism being installed between the circuit board layer and the bottom board to form a liquid-draining space. The liquid-draining space and the liquid-draining hole are connected for the purpose of draining liquid that is accidentally poured into the keyboard, so that liquid flowing down through the keys can be drained away swiftly via the liquid-draining space and drained out of the keyboard through the liquid-draining hole, thus preventing liquid from accumulating in the keyboard, and maintaining the normal operation of the keyboard.

Abstract: A key structure includes a set of key tops with contact footings of retaining hooks, an upper case with a plurality of insert holes wherein contact footings of retaining hooks are moveably inserted therein and a bottom case to be assembled with the upper case; the present invention is characterized that elastic upper and lower electrode members made of metal and capable of conducting electricity are inserted between every key top and the bottom case; the depressed key top synchronously presses the upper and the lower electrode members to deform and displace to make the upper and the lower electrode members contact each other, conduct electricity and transmit signals; when the force exerted onto the key top is released, the upper and the lower electrode members recoil to disconnect each other and discontinue electric conduction; the simplified parts of the present invention and the elimination of the conventional upper and lower electric conducting membrane sheets efficiently reduce the pollution when the keyb

Abstract: A key structure used in the user interface of an electrical device comprises a plate-like member (301) which comprises electrical couplings for transforming keystrokes into electrical signals, and an electrically conducting dome-like member (303) on the plate-like member. This dome-like member is arranged to have such suitable elastic characteristics that it is at least partly pressed against the plate-like member when a pressing force substantially perpendicular towards the plate-like member acts on the dome-like member, and to return to the dome-like position when the pressing force is removed. The key structure further comprises a button member (304) made of an electrically isolating material and being located on the dome-like member. The key structure is characterised in that the elastic deformation of the button member due to the pressing force is substantially similar to that of the dome-like member.

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.