GB2109309A - Input keyboard device - Google Patents

Abstract

A plurality of code keys and a bit shift key are arranged in a matrix having two side rows and a middle row in which the bit shift key is provided at the center part thereof, extending in the horizontal direction for a three-finger distance, the code keys being so arranged around the bit shift key that the bit shift key and one or more of the code keys may be operated at the same time with one or two fingers of an operator's one hand. <IMAGE>

Description

SPECIFICATION Input keyboard device This invention relates to an input keyboard device which can be easily operated with one or two fingers of an operator's one hand, thereby accurately inputting desired data, and which can therefore be highly practical.

An electric circuit is controlled according to various items. The items, or data are fed to the circuit by operating keys. Each of the keys is assigned to one item. Whenever each key is operated, a binary signal, either ON signal or OFF signal, is generated.

The more items to control, the more keys are necessary, Hitherto, the number of necessary keys has been equal to that of items to control. As the electronic culture grows and as the electronic technology advances, the keyboards of audio synthesizers and tape recorders come to have more and more special function keys. The input keyboard devices of data processing apparatus and pocket-size calculators each have an array of special function keys. Now the risk of erroneously operating the keys is growing, because the keyboard has too many keys. In other words, an erroneous key operation is not unusual. This is a problem indeed.

Some measures are taken to solve the problem. In the case of the input keyboard device for inputting character information, e.g. the keyboard device of an electronic typewriter, a personal terminal equipment or a pocket-size calculator, a shift key is positioned at the periphery of the area where code keys are arranged. Use of a shift key makes it possible to assign two or more items to each code key. Hence a limited number of keys arranged on a limited keyboard surface can input more data when operated. Such a known keyboard device, however, is not easy to operate in order to input character data which will form a word or a spelling. In other words, the keys are not so arranged that the operator can smoothly operate them with fingers, to thereby continuously input data at a high speed. For exampie, the operator cannot depress the shift key without fully opening his hand.This would reduce the speed of inputting data.

A U.S. journal "Computers", December 1978 discloses a "code keyboard" which is so designed as to reduce the number of keys required. An AND circuit is provided for every two adjacent keys and receives a ternary signal. Hence, two keys can be operated to input three different data. Only 10 keys arranged in a 2-row, 5-column matrix are therefore sufficient to input 27 letters of the alphabet. 27 keys arranged in a 3-row, 9-column matrix, which are used in the conventional typewriter, are unnecessary. The "code keyboard" has been designed on the assumption that such a shift operation as described above is scarcely carried out. The shift key of this device is depressed by a thumb.

Indeed the "code keyboard" has far less keys than the conventional input keyboard device. When the keyboard is closely and carefully examined, however, it will be found that four keys must be operated in a rapid succession by one finger at four positions. It will also be found that two keys must be operated in a rapid succession by one finger at thirteen positions. After all, two or more keys must be quickly depressed one after another at 17 positions. In the convenient device, single key, must be depressed by a finger in a rapid succession only at 10 positions. A successive four-key operation has to be performed inevitably at the cost of data inputting speed. It can not be accurately performed unless the operator looks at the keyboard.If a successive four-key operation is to be made more rapidly, the mechanical precision of the keyboard has to be enhanced and the electrical components of the device have to possess a higher reliability. A rapid plural finger operation cannot be achieved unless the operator receives much practice and training. An excessive use of ternary signals may after all make it difficult for people to operate the keyboard. Only those who train themselves for a long time can operate the keyboard at ease.

Despite the newly invented input keyboard devices with less keys and less contacts and despite the effort made in the process of designing these devices, no sizable advancement has been made with regard to better methods of operating keyboard, hardware that can perform such methods and training programs. In short, the human-factors engineering has not made a marked advancement in connection with input keyboard devices. Most people therefore have to scan a manuscript or a data sheet and then look at the keyboard. The manuscript-scanning and the keyboard-watching are repeated all the way during data input process. Their fingers cannot learn the position of every key. Their eyes have to be used in order to depress correct keys. The operator must ceaselessly move the face and eyes as well as the hands and fingers, up and down, from the left to the right or vice versa.As time passes, he will get tired, and the keyboard operation will slow down. Further, the one-finger operation is slow and will unavoidably lower the efficiency of data input operation.

Even a person skilled in blind touch keyboard operation cannot shift his fingers or hands from the "set position", while operating the keys, thereby inputting character data and numerical data. No training program has been developed which successfully trains people to let one finger intrude into the territory of another. The existing input keyboard devices have no support for the wrists or arms of the operator. No measures have been taken into consideration in an attempt to lessen both physical and mental fatigue. In fact, some operators have health and physical troubles. Both the manuscript- and keyboard-scanning keyboard operation and the blind touch keyboard operation must be scientifically analyzed to probe possible solution to the problem the operators have.

Accordingly it is an object of the present invention to provide an input keyboard device which eliminates the various problems mentioned above. A device according to the invention has half the number of keys and contact which the conventional device has. Its electric circuit is simpier than that of the conventional device. Its keyboard is smaller than that of the conventional device. These are the hardware improvements of the invention. The keys are arranged in such a way that any person can easily depress desired keys without watching the keyboard and that any person can operate the keys with only two fingers on a single hand.

To achieve the object mentioned above, an input keyboard device of this invention is operated to input different data by selectively operating a plurality of code keys one at a time, operating a selected code key and a bit shift key at the same time and operating two selected code keys at the same time.

The device is characterized in that the code keys are arranged around the bit shift key so that the bit shift key and one or more of the code keys may be operated at the same time with one or two fingers of an operator's one hand. One embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to the drawings attached hereto.

This invention can be more fully understood from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figures land 2 are a plan view of an embodiment of the invention and a plan view of another embodiment of the invention, respectively; and Figure 3 illustrates how symbol sheets are bonded on the keys of the input keyboard device shown in Figure 2.

First, the device according to the invention will be outlined.

(A) All the items to control are classified according to predetermined standards. Every two items are then put together to form the most natural combination possible. One key is assigned to such a natural combination of items.

The two items of each combination are marked on one key in different manners. One items is marked on the left portion of the key, and the other on the right portion of the key. Alternatively, one item is marked larger than the other. The marked items are positioned symmetrical with respect to a center of the key or the diagonal thereof. This method of marking items on the respective keys makes the whole keyboard look rather simple and helps people to quickly learn which key is assigned to which items.

(B) A shift key, which will be the main element of the keyboard and which takes ON state and OFF state, is provided. This key will hereinafter be called "Bit key". The Bit key much assists to reduce the number of keys and contacts required. Further it serves to indicate a reference position. The operator will learn the distance between this reference position and each key and the direction in which each key lies with respect to this reference position and will then move his fingers to depress the keys without watching the keyboard. In other words, the Bit key helps the operator to learn blind touch keyboard operation.

The line, linking the middle finger with the wrist, is determined as the central line of palm and hand, on which the Bit key is located. The central line of the operator is in front of his body and straight along his backbone.

(C) Other keys are positioned around the Bit key, so that any one of them and the Bit key can be depressed in a rapid succession with one or two fingers. The keys are arranged outwardly, clockwise or symmetrical with respect to the vertical center line.

Preferably, the positions of these keys should be determined by the rule mentioned in paragraph (A), the specific two-item combinations, the organic relation between the items. They should be determined in such a way that people can easily learn them and need not frequently open their hand in order to touch a desired key with a finger.

(D) The shape and size of each key are determined so that the key and the Bit key can be operated in a rapid succession with one or two fingers of one hand. The shape and size of the Bit key are determined according to the shapes and sizes of the keys which are arranged immediately around the Bit key. Anyway, all the keys of the keyboard need not have the same shape and the same size. Each key should have such a shape and such a size that the keyboard operation is made both quickly and correctly.

(E) The keyboard has after all a simple symmetrical shape, such as a square, a rectangle, a regular trapezoid, a triangle, a pentagon, a semicircle, a sector or a half ellipse. The positions of the keys are such that people can easily learn them and that the Bit key is located on the central line of palm and hand. The other keys are so arranged around the Bit keys and those shapes are so formed in concert with the central lines, as to attract the aesthetic sense of the operator.

(F) The Bit key and the other keys, or code keys, which are arranged as mentioned above are electrically or electronically connected. When they are selectively operated, ternary signals are supplied to electro-mechanical AND circuits or threedimensional position signals (XYZ-axis signals) are supplied to a microcomputer which can convert codes. The position signals can thus be converted into desired signals.

A signal generated by depressing the Bit key along cannot make an effective signal. Therefore, the Bit key may be used as a support for fingers, hand and arm. In other words, the Bit key is the "home position" in the strict sense of the words. This can help to reduce the fatigue of the operator.

The conversion of position signals to codes makes it possible that the key arrangement may be changed if the user so desires. Modification of the keyboard design can be available at a low cost.

The input keyboard device of such design as described above can combine human brain and fingers and hand with the electric and electronic technology in an organic and natural manner.

According to the present invention, items to control can be assigned to a plurality of keys of a keyboard in a rational way.

(G) If the input keyboard device is to be used for a specific purpose, it must be provided with additional keys. Further, in addition to the requirements described in paragraphs (A)-(F), some requirements must be fulfilled. A keyboard for inputting alpha numerical data, for example, must fulfill the following requirements.

(a) Two or more space keys SP should better be arranged as shown in Figure 2. A space key is depressed as frequently as the code keys in order to separate one word from another, one character from another. When any of the space keys SP is depressed, the printing head moves for a one-character distance. It follows that the printing head can be brought to the next printing position faster than in case only one space key is provided. The set of space keys SP are operated in processing words and sentences, making a full use of the memory function, counting function and branching function - all performed by a microcomputer.

(b) Two shift keys "Shift" should better be arranged as illustrated in Figure 2. The Shift keys make it easier for the operator to operate the Bit key and the code keys in a rapid succession with two fingers on one hand. They and the Bit key provide a three-point support for the wrist and arm. When either Shift key and any code key are depressed in a rapid succession, a ternary signal will be generated.

Hence, like the Bit key, the Shift keys help to reduce the number of code keys required and thus to simplify and miniaturize the keyboard. The operator can therefore depress the Bit key with the middle finger, two code keys with the forefinger and ring finger, respectively, and the Shift keys with the thumb and little finger, respectively. The Shift keys cooperate with the Bit key, i.e. the "home position key", which performs such functions as described in paragraphs (B) and (F), to thereby assist the operator to do the two-finger key operation easily, smoothly and fast. The three-point support provided by the Bit key and the Shift keys lessens the physical and mental fatigue the operator may suffer from. It also helps to avoid pain in the shoulders and arms and pain in the sheath of a tendon.

By combining a microcomputer and a program it may be possible to systemize the data input operation and to simplify and miniaturize the keyboard.

For instance, either Shift key and one of the code keys are depressed in a rapid succession to thereby erase all or some of the data written or write data into the first or second memory. Further, either Shift key and one of the other code keys, e.g. character keys, are depressed to thereby select the large character or the small one. In this way, two items can be assigned to one code key. Still further, a few of the space keys SP (see paragraph (a)), or a few keys and one of Shift keys are depressed to thereby move the printing head to the left or right until it reaches a desired printing point. Accordingly no back space key is necessary.

Two Shift keys and one or more code keys are operated to perform specific operations. For example, two Shift keys and the El key are depressed to thereby rotate the platen in the paper feeding direction, two Shfit keys and the Et key are depressed to thereby rotate the platen in the oppo site direction, two Shift keys and 2 [ xl key are depressed to thereby start data transmission, two Shift keys and 2 / I key are depressed to thereby stop data transmission, two Shift keys and the S key to thereby return the printing head, the two Shfit keys, the B key and the m key are depressed to thereby return the printing head and then perform line-spacing.Either Shift key, one character code key or one numeral code key and another Shift key are depressed in a rapid succession to thereby automatically change the small character printing to the large character and again to the small character printing.

Two Shift keys, repeated twice, are depressed in a rapid succession to thereby bring the main system into operation. When the same two-key operations are performed again, the sub system is then brought into operation. Hence the operation of one or two Shift keys and one or more code keys in a rapid succession is a switching operation. Accordingly, unlike the conventional input keyboard device, the device of the present invention need not have many manual switches.

Moreover, the input keyboard device of the invention can input not only alphanumerical data but Japanese words and Chinese characters. As shown in Figure 2, the keyboard includes two "Kana" keys.

Either Kana key is depressed to change the Roman script printing to the Kana (Japanese syllabic letter) printing. When the Roman character key is depressed, the Kana printing is changed to the Roman script printing. (In order to print the Kana "3 ", the "W" and "0" keys are depressed, and in order to print the Kana ".y ", the "W" and "U" keys are depressed.) Either Kana key and one Shift key are depressed to thereby start printing small "Katakanas" (one of the two Japanese syllabic systems). When the same two-key operation is again performed, the small Katakana printing is stopped. Two Kana keys and two Shift keys are depressed to thereby start the Chinese character printing. When the same two-setkey operation is performed again, the Chinese character printing is stopped.When a word is written in small Katakanas after large "Hiraganas" (the other Japanese syllabic letter system), the small Katakanas are automatically changed to one or more Chinese characters which form the word. (In order to add a small Kana word in a large Hiragana sentence, two Kana keys and a Shift key are first depressed as the small Hiragana keys and then small Katakana printing is performed, as mentioned above.) This Kana-to-Chinese character conversion is stopped when a large Hiragana is written. Alternatively, the Kana-to-Chinese character conversion may be started by depressing a Kana-to-Chinese character conversion key and may be stopped by depressing the same key again. It is preferred that when a Roman script key and the two Shift keys are depressed, the letter will be written in small italics.

Depressing either Shift key results in the same effect as does depressing the Bit key. In this way, conversion between the Roman script and the oriental script can easily be achieved.

As described above, various data can be inputted by operating the keyboard with the thumb and the little finger as well as the other three fingers of one hand. The two Shift keys, one arranged at the leftmost position and the other arranged at the rightmost position, are depressed together with one or more other keys, to thereby perform various functions.

(c) In order to input a large number with many zeros or a rational number with many recurrings, it is sufficient to depress only a few keys only one time, utilizing the memory and counting functions of the microcomputer. In addition, the same symbol can be repeatedly printed with optional spaces among them, to thereby draw a picture or a graphic pattern, also by depressing only a few keys. More specifically, a "Repeat" key, or "zero sum key", which is located in such a position as shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2, is operated in such a manner as will be described below.

When the zero sum key is depressed and then one or more numeral keys are depressed, "Os" the number of which is defined by the numeral keys depressed will be input or printed one after another.

When the zero sum key @ is depressed and the lm key is depressed, "0" will be repeatedly input or printed until another signal is input. When the zero sum key ê is depressed twice, a numeral, character or symbol will be designated which is to be repeatedly input or printed. If the zero sum key 6 is depressed for the third time and one or more numeral keys are then depressed, the numeral, character or symbol thus designated will be input or printed many times the numer of which is defined by the numeral keys depressed. The zero sum key 6 is useful in processing data in various fields, e.g.

accounting, calculation and data input operation.

Hence the input keyboard device according to the invention is valuable for real estate business, international trade, financing, security business and insurance. It is valuable also in the governmental offices and the public service corporations which deal with public finance and economic policy. The device is useful also for processing scientific data, particularly astronomical data.

(d) Punctuation keys and symbol keys are arranged on both side of the area where the numeral and character keys are provided. Each symbol may be printed in the same printing position as a character, thus creating a special symbol. A set of two special keys is provided on the right marginal area of the keyboard of Figure 2. Each of these key and/or one Shift key are depressed to thereby choose a smaller character, move the printing head to the right or the left for a half-stroke distance and rotate the platen in one direction or the opposite direction through the angle corresponding to a half-line space. These two keys are depressed in a rapid succession, to thereby preventing the selection of the same size characters, the printng of a symbol on a character already printed.The special operation of the punctuation keys, symbol keys and some other special keys mentioned here are possible, assisted by the microcomputer. These special keys are operated, thereby inputting or printing various kinds of mathematical, chemical and engineering notations, the special characters used in the foreign languages, Kanas used as suffix to words written in Chinese characters, or a graphical pattern made up of symbols.

It has been described how the keys of the keyboard device according to the invention are arranged and how they are electrically connected.

The requirements that the device must fulfill have been also described. The functions of some keys provided in addition to the mode keys have been described above.

The keys are arranged and electrically connected, thus constituting a so-called "character input keyboard" which is operated to input numerical data useful in the everyday life today and the Roman letters used in the languages spoken over the world.

The input keyboard device according to the present invention is operated with two fingers to thereby input numeral data, the Roman letters and symbols.

Figure 1 shows an input keyboard device, an embodiment of the present invention. The device is designed so as to input decimal numbers and perform addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. It is also designed to input 16-scale numbers. The device has a plurality of keys which are so arranged as to allow for a blind touch operation with the forefinger, middle finger and ring finger on one hand. More specifically, the keys are arranged as described below, fulfilling the requirements stated in paragraphs (A) - (F): (1) The origin of a series of decimal numbers and 16-scale numbers are "0" having an absolute value and not being only a symbol. And so these can be, from the origin, separated by a set of two numbers, the antecedent term and the succeeding term. Each numeral key is assigned to two numbers of them.

The antecedent number is input when the key is depressed alone. The succeeding number is input when the antecedent and the Bit key are depressed at the same time. The antecedent is an even number, except for the E key, and all the succeeding is an odd number.

(2) The "0" key and the Bit key are arranged on a vertical line, i.e. the center line of the keyboard. The operator positions his hand with the middle finger aligned with the vertical line. The Bit key is rectangular, extending in the horizontal direction for a three-finger distance of the forefinger, middle finger and ring finger, and is used as a "home position" key.

(3) The 2,3 key and the 4 5 key are located on the left and right sides of the | 0,1 1 key, respectively. The 16,71 key and the 8,9 key are located on the left and right sides of the Bit key, respectively. This specific key arrangement makes it easy for the operator to continuously or repeatedly depress the numeral keys with two fingers. The key arrangement is designed based on the way people count numbers with their fingers and thumbs, the way people play musical instruments, the way people calculate on abacus and the way people operate a braille writer. With this key arrangement the operator can perform a blind touch key operation, using only the forefinger and the ring finger as far as one-digit even numbers are concerned. The arrangement of numeral keys is symmetrical with respect to the E 0,1 key. Three keys assigned to the decimal point, symbols and addition, subtraction, multiplication and division signs are arranged in a row below the Bit key. This three-key arrangement is symmetrital with respect to the vertical center line of the keyboard. If 16-scale numbers and the letters of the alphabet are to be input or printed, three keys arranged in a row are used. These three keys are superposed on the three keys assigned to the decimal point, symbols, addition sign, subtraction sign, multiplication sign and division sign so that no additional keys need to be provided, that the same finger is used more frequently and that more fingers need not be used.

(4) A recess is made between the 2 0 I key and the Bit key. The tip of the middle finger may thus be put into the recess. As long as the operator has his middle finger put in the recess, he knows the positions of the vertical center line, horizontal reference line and junction point 1 of the keyboard without looking at the keyboard. Waving horizontal grooves are cut in the surface of the Bit key, and waving vertical grooves are cut in the surface of each other key on the vertical center line. Further, those surface portions of the keyboard which lie among the keys are treated in different ways. For example, some of them are made smooth and soft, and the others are made rough and hard. Alternatively, small plates having different roughnesses may be adhered to the respective keys.These measures taken, the operator may distinguish one key from another merely by touching it with a finger.

In order to allow the operator to input data accurately and quickly, the keys must be so large that the tip of any finger may fully rest on them. If such small plates as described above are used, they must be so large, too.

(5) The keyboard is after all a rectangular keyboard which extends in horizontal direction. Provided at the four corners of the keyboard are such special, additional keys mentioned in paragraph (G). These keys are, for instance, an "erase/memory" key, a "retrieve/repeat" key, a "%I < " key and another key. These four keys, the keys of the lowest row and the leftmost and rightmost keys of each other row are depressed with the thumb and little finger of one hand, whereas the other three fingers of the hand are used to depress all the other keys. The Bit key on which the forefinger, middle finger and ring finger may rest functions as "home position" key. Thus, the operator may move three fingers or two fingers without moving the hand, to thereby input data.

Alternatively, he may use only one finger without moving the wrist, or he may use the five fingers of one hand without moving the wrist. In short, the operator can operate the keyboard, either looking at the keyboard or not looking at it.

(6) The keys are electrically connected in such a way as described in paragraph (F). In addition to the electrical connections of keys, a power supply circuit, a signal transfer circuit and the like are provided within the keyboard. The input and output terminals of these circuits are located so as to be connected to various external devices, such as output devices or a microcomputer. A decimal number input key and a 16-scale number input key are positioned at the upper-left corner and upper right corner of the keyboard, respectively. Both keys extend slantwise so that they may not be mistakenly operated when the keyboard is put into, or out of, a pocket or a case.

(7) The numeral keys are closely arranged, thus forming an upper half portion of the keyboard. The symbol and sign keys are closely arranged, thus forming a lower half portion of the keyboard. To input an even number only one numeral key is depressed, and to input an odd number the Bit key and one numeral key are depressed. Therefore, it is easy for any person to "learn by fingers" where each key is located and to depress the desired keys in a rapid succession and without making an error. With the keyboard device of the invention a quick and reflective key operation is possible, and both physical and mental fatigue is small as compared with the fatigue that the operator has after operating the conventional device for a long time.

Since theEkey is positioned on the vertical center line of the keyboard and the numeral keys and the Bit key are arranged in only two rows, it is sufficient for the operator to move the finger for only a 1-, 2-row intervals to thereby input numeral data, whereas he has to move the finger for a 4-row interval when he operates the conventional input keyboard device.

For the same reason, the middle finger which is more stronger than any other finger is used instead of the ring finger which a key punching machine operator usually uses. This helps to avoid pain in the sheath of tendon. The provision of the Bit key, which works as a rest for a finger, serves also to lessen the cause of pain in the sheath of tendon. Further, since the Bit key is elongated in horizontal direction, the operator can depress it blind-held merely moving a finger from another key for a shorter distance than otherwise. He can depress the Bit key even when he holds a pen or a pencil between two fingers. As described above, the key arrangement is simple. The keyboard device can therefore be operated even by the left hand. Needless to say, a left-handed person can operate the keyboard device.The input keyboard device according to the present invention can thus be accurately and quickly operated by any person, to thereby input various data.

In the case of the keyboard shown in Figure 2, five keys are assigned to the ten fundamental numbers, each key to two numbers. More specifically, the first of the five keys is assigned to "0" and "1", i.e. two numbers with a common difference of 1, and each of the other four keys is assigned similarly to two numbers with a common difference of 1, the first number being smaller than the second. As a result, the five fundamental numbers of the first group form a progression having a common difference of 2that is, progression: 0, 2, 4, 6, 8. This progression includes four fundamental numbers which are significant in binary number system, i.e. 0, 2, 4 and 8. This specific arrangement of numeral keys is fit for conversion between a decimal number and a binary number. Since only five numeral keys are provided, instead often keys, it is easy for the operator to selectively depress them with a few fingers of one hand, as easy as to make arithmetic calculations on an abacus, moving balls on rods each with two balls.

Each of these numeral keys, assigned to two fundamental numbers, can thus be operated in interlock with the ON-OFF input operation of an electric or electronic apparatus.

If five rows each consisting of five numeral keys are arranged, thus forming a matrix of keys, and if a shift bar is disposed below the lowest row, the keyboard will be effectively used to input data for controlling, for example, lighting and heating or an intra-station broadcasting.

The keyboard shown in Figure 2, the second embodiment of the present invention, is a so-called "character input keyboard," designed for inputting numbers and Roman letters. The keyboard device is so designed that any person can input numerals and letters accurately and quickly, using two fingers of one hand. Its keys are arranged in order to fulfill the requirements stated in paragraphs (A) to (F), as will be described below in detail.

Each character key is assigned to two Roman letters. To which Roman letters a key is assigned is determined by various factors. The alphabet, the 50-Kana table are both examined so carefully as to determine the most preferable key arrangement possible, that would allow the operator to input English words, Japanese words or words of any other language as fast as possible. In determining the most preferable key arrangement, the spelling system of English is used as standard. At the same time, the syllable tables of other languages, shorthand script, the braille type table and the phonetical features of other languages are taken into consideration. First, Roman letters are classified into two groups, vowel letters and consonant letters. Then, it is examined how often each Roman letter may be used in spelling English words, Japanese words and words of some other languages.It is also examined how often each Roman letter may be used in an immediate succession, twice or thrice, in spelling English words, Japanese words and words of some other languages. Further, the positions of the fingers of one hand which are to depress the keys are taken into consideration. Preferably, at least one key is assigned to stress marks used in some languages other than English.

According to the invention, Roman letters are scientifically classified and it is determined to which letters each key is assigned, in such manner as described below. The classification of Roman letters is an essential point of the invention.

(A) Ten Roman letters represent vowels. They are a, e, i, o and u (in English); J (in some languages otherthan English); y and w (semivowels); and R and L (semi-consonants). The English semivowel /y/ or /w/ turns into a consonant when followed by a vowel. The semi-consonants R and L each turns into a long vowel when they follow a vowel. Of the English vowels, /e/ is most frequently produced. Of the Japanese vowels, lel is least frequently produced. Of the English vowels, /u/ is least frequently produced, whereas the Japanese vowel, lug is often produced as the result of euphonical change of a combination of another vowel and a consonant. In the English spelling system, e is silient when it follows a consonant letter which in turn follows a vowel letter.Unlike Japanese words, English words contain each a diphthong or a triphthong. In other words, two or three vowel qualities are often written in a rapid succession, thus representing a monosyllabic speech-sound sequence.

(B) Sixteen Roman letters represent consonants.

They are P-B, F~V, C~Q~K:G, S.Z, T'D, N~M, H and X. Z often represents a voiceless sound in some languages other than English. N and M represent nasal consonants. H represents an aspirate consonant, which is expressed byX in German and Greek. In English, IHI and a preceding vowel form a long vowel, and /H1 and /a/ preceding consonant /C/~/S/~TT/ /W/, /P/~/G/~/V/ form a new consonant. IHI and /e/ are often used in combination with another consonant or a vowel to produce a new phonetical feature.The small letter/e/ is frequently used in combination with a stress mark in French, Italian and a few other languages.

(C) Consonants are classified into voiced ones and voiceless ones. They are so classified according to whether or not they are produced by vibrating the vocal cords. They may be more minutely classified according to the speech organs used and the points of articulation, into the following five groups: (I) Aspirate /H/, which is produced when the breath is released without vibrating the vocal cords. (Aspirate /H/, however, is either voiced or voiceless in classical Greek, and there are a few variations of aspirate IHI in modern Arabics). Nonaspirate /H/, which is produced when it is immediately followed by another consonant or a vowel.

(Il) Front/K', /C/, /Qu/ and back/K', which are produced when the back of tongue comes into contact with the velum while the breath is escaping between the tongue and the velum.

(111)/S/which is produced as the breath is released through the narrow gap among the lower jaw, the tip of tongue and the upper gums, and /T/ or a voiceless alveolar stop, which is produced when the breath is released as the tip of tongue leaves the upper gums.

(IV) /N/ and /M/, both of which are nasal consonants. /N/ is produced as the breath escapes through the nasal passages with the mouth opened.

/M/ is produced as the breath escapes through the nasal passage with the mouth closed.

(V) IPI or voiceless bilabial, and ifs or voiceless labiodental.

The five groups of consonants and the ten vowels (voiced speech sounds) are taken into consideration in order to determine which Roman letters should be input by operating the same key. According to the invention, K and G are input by depressing the same key, and so areS and Z,Tand D,Pand B, FandV. Of these Roman letters, P, K, S, T and F represent the fundamental consonants IPI, /Kf, /S/, /T/ and /F/ of the European languages and classical Greek.Further, consonants /W, /S/, /T/, IFI and /P/ are combined each five vowels, thus defining 5-syllable rows which begin with Ikal, sisal, vital, /fa/ and /pai, respectively, and which make a part of the syllabic letter table of Sanskrit and Japanese.

Semivowels lyi and /w/ and semiconsonants /R/ and /L/ are classified in the same way as are the consonants according to the position of the point of articulartion, front or back and high or low. Iyl, IRI (or /L/) and /w/ combine each with a vowel, thus producing, for ex#nple, Iyal, /ra/ and way which are the first syllables of the last three 5-syllable rows of the Japanese 50-syllable table.

The classification of Roman letters mentioned above is the most important feature of the embodiment shown in Figure 2 and the intellectual aspect most important to the present invention.

In order to make it easy for people to learn to operate the keys quickly and in order to shorten the overall length of a wire used to connect the key contacts, a Bit key (an ON-OFF switch) is disposed at the center of the keyboard. The Bit key functions as a home position key. It also serves as a support for the hand, the wrist, the middle finger and other fingers.

The key operation lasts for a long time in order to accomplish document processing and language processing. If the operator keeps operating the keyboard for a long time, it is therefore desired that not only the middle finger but also the thumb and little finger should rest on some keys thereby to support the hand and arm. Otherwise, the operator will soon be tired. According to the invention, two Shift keys are provided in addition to the Bit key. The Shift keys are positioned symmetrical with respect to the vertical center line of the keyboard, thereby fulfilling the requirement stated in paragraph (G).

Hence a three-point support is possible when the middle finger, the thumb and the little finger rest on the Bit key and the two Shift keys, respectively.

Like the Bit key, the Shift keys are each an ON-OFF switch. Thus, no ternary signal, or no effective signal, will be generated when the Bit key and the Shift keys are depressed alone. A ternary signal is generated only when the Bit key or one of the Shift keys is, at the same time, depressed with another key. No erroneous data is input when only the Bit key or one of the Shift keys is depressed by mistake.

Further, no ternary signal is generated even when both Shift keys are depressed substantially at the same time. These measures being taken, the threepoint support is ensured for the hand and arm.

Any two fingers may be used to depress the Bit key or one of the Shift keys and another character or the like, to thereby enter a data. This also helps to achieve an easy, fast and smooth data input operation. In the present embodiment, the Shift keys are depressed very often. It is therefore quite possible that the operator may continuously depress the Bit key or either Shift key for a long time, mistakenly believing that he depresses the key repeatedly, but continuously. Erroneous data are then input. To avoid such an erroneous key operation it is desired that the Bit key, the Shift keys and the character keys be automatically nullified upon lapse of an extremely short time (e.g. 1/100 second). This can be accomplished by a microcomputer.In contrast to the Bit key, the Shift keys and the character keys, the shift keys of character sorts and the like may be automatically nullified when the next signal of them is given. This method makes it possible to automatically release a lock instruction and helps to save labor on the part of the operator. For the reason already stated above, the Bit key and the Shift keys much assist to simplify various control operations and the key arrangement and to miniaturize the keyboard device as a whole.

With respect to the Bit key, or the home position key, the character keys are positioned according to the classification of Roman letters (i.e. the letters representing vowels and the letters representing consonants).

First it will be described how the keys are assigned to Roman letters which represent the ten vowels.

Since /e/ is the vowel which is most often used in European languages and least often used in Japanese, the key assigned to letter E is positioned right above the Bit key. The keys assigned respectively to A and Y which represent other vowels /a/ and /y/ are so positioned that the line connecting their centers defines the base of an isosceles triangle whose third vertex coincides with the center of the key assigned to letter E. The key assigned to letter I which represents vowel /i/ is positioned at the intersection of the perpendicular from the key assigned to E and the line connecting the centers of the keys assigned to letters A and Y. Positioned on the left side of the Bit key is the key assigned to letters 0 and U which represent vowels /o/ and lul, respectively.Located on the right side of the Bit key is the key assigned to letter W which represents semivowel Iwl.

Front vowels lal and lil are produced by vibrating the vocal cords and releasing the breath through the open mouth, whereas back vowels /o/ and /u/ are produced by vibrating the vocal cords and releasing the breath through the rounded mouth. Another vowel lel, which is frontal, is produced by vibrating the vocal cords and releasing the breath through the half-open mouth. The five vowels may be divided into two groups, one consisting of /a/ and /i/ and the other consisting of lol, /u/ and lel. When vowels lal, lil, lol, /u/ and /e/ are produced in this sequence, the speaker's tongue and jaw move very naturally and the breath is released very smoothly.In view of this, the specific arrangement of the keys assigned to the letters representing vowels will contribute to easy speaking and hearing of the European languages. It will also make it possiblefor people to pronounce isolated Japanese vowels lal, lil, lul, /e/ and /o/ more smoothly. In other words, it will help modernize the way of producing the Japanese vowels. (The tongue and mouth must be moved somewhat unnaturally if vowels lil, lul, lel, /o/ and /a/ are to be produced in this sequence. In this case, the speaker will be out of breath before he pronounces all the vowels.) Now, it will be described how the keys are assigned to Roman letters which represent the consonants. The English semiconsonants IRI and /U which are similar to the semivowels /y/ and /w/ are similar to vowels and are frequently produced. Here, /R/ is considered more similar to a vowel than /L/. (IU is considered more similar to a consonant than /R/.) Hence, the key assigned to A is assigned also to letter R which represents semiconsonant /R/ and is to be depressed by the forefinger. The key assigned to W is assigned also to letter L which represents semiconsonant /U and is to be depressed by the ring finger. These two keys are positioned symmetrical with respect to the vertical center line of the keyboard, as shown in Figure 2. Right above the WL key the key designated to letter M and N is located.The 53 key and the IWLI key are thus arranged on a vertical line, whereby the three consecutive letters of the alphabet, i.e. "L", "M" and "N", are arranged on the keyboard. After all, letters "L", "W", "M" and "N" are arranged counterclockwise in this sequence.

The keys assigned to the letters which represent other consonants are positioned in specific manner, too. The key assigned to letter E is assigned also to letter H which represents aspirate 6?He, or the reference phoneme. The other keys assigned to the letters representing the other consonants are positioned around the Bit key in a circle surrounding the circle of the keys assigned to the letters representing the vowels, semivowels and semiconsonants. More specifically, the IKGI key, g key, # key, # key, E3 1# ~key and rPlYT key, each assigned to two letters according to the consonant classification stated in paragraphs (B) and (C), are arranged clockwise.At the end of the sequence of these consonant-letter keys a key assigned to stress marks used in languages other than English is positioned.

The key assigned to I, which is located right below the Bit key and belongs to the same row as does the i KG ss key, is assigned also to letter X. Hence the g I key belongs to the center column which includes the key assigned to letter H representing aspirate /H/. Letter X can be easily checked by eyes to see whether or not it has been erroneously input, because "X" is used in Japan as a "no good" or "NG" mark.

Let the semivowels /y/ and /w/ and the semiconsonants IRI and /U be analyzed from a different angle. To produce /R/the speaker must move the tongue. He can produce /y/, /w/ and /L/ without moving the tongue. Because of this phonetical distinction between /R/ on one hand and Iyl, /w/ and /L/ on the other, the key assigned to letter R is so positioned as to be depressed by the forefinger and the key assigned to letters W and L and the key assigned to letter Y are so positioned as to be depressed by the ring finger. The WL key and the key assigned to Y can be depressed easily by the same finger, i.e. the ring finger, because they belong to the same column of keys. Thus is completed the arranging the consonant-letter keys.

In consequence, the thirteen character keys are provided, each of which is assigned to two letters and which are positioned in a three-row, five-column rectangular matrix. The two letters which each key is assigned to represent two speech sounds which are produced by moving the tongue and the mouth in substantially the same manner. The key arrangement is symmetical with respect to the vertical center line of the keyboard and is therefore simple and easy to learn.

The ten keys assigned to the vowel-letters are arranged around the Bit key or home position key, in two rows and three columns. They are depressed by the forefinger, the middle finger and the ring finger.

They can therefore be operated more quickly than any other key. This helps to input the vowel-letters repeatedly and continuously at a high speed. The vowel-letter keys of the conventional keyboard de vice are arranged at far-off positions or in a single row. The arrangement of vowel-letter keys according to the invention can thus be said to be a novel one.

The keys assigned to the sixteen consonant-letters are arranged in the upper row, middle row and the lower row and surround the keys assigned to the ten vowel-letters. They can be easily operated by the forefinger, middle finger and ring finger, with the hand and the wrist placed at a fixed position. They can be selectively depressed with these three fingers merely by turning the hand either clockwise or counterclockwise about the wrist, verly little. As a rule, the forefinger is assigned to depress the six keys positioned on the left of the central key column, and the ring finger is assigned to depress the six keys positioned on the right of the central key column. Nonetheless, the thumb and the little finger may be used to depress these keys. Further, the Bit key may be depressed by any finger other than the middle finger.The thumb, middle finger and little finger are placed on the left Shift key, the Bit key and the right Shift key, respectively, therby supporting the arm, hand, and wrist. The character key group is thus as if gripped by the thumb, middle finger and little finger.

The key operation of the keyboard device accord ing to the invention is therefore utterly different from those performed on the typewriter keyboard and the piano keyboard. It is similar to the finger operation performed on the popular stringed musical instru ments, such as a guitar or a mandolin. In other words, the different fingers may be used to depress the same key. It is sufficient for the operator to lightly touch the correct keys. He can thus depress the desired key very fast. One or two fingers may be used to depress the keys in a rapid succession. Since the key arrangement and the basic idea behind the arrangement are simple, any person who has re ceived primary education can easily learn the arrangement of the keys. Therefore, any person can operate the input keyboard device at a high speed.

The arrangement of keys is designed according to the human-factors engineering theory, and the keys of the keyboard can therefore be depressed quickly, accurately and efficiently. With the keyboard device of the invention it is easy to train people to learn the blind touch key operation. It is therefore possible for many people to become skilled keyboard operators in a relatively short period of time. People who became blind can easily train themselves, thus being good operators, as well. A right-handed person, for example, may use the left hand instead to depress the keys which are arranged in three rows and five columns or in four rows and five columns. This can be accomplished through a short-time training.

Unlike the key operation on the conventional keyboard devices, the key operation according to the invention consists in depressing eight character keys with one finger. In some cases one finger may depress the eight keys and two additional keys, which is possible when the operator turns his hand very much, either clockwise or counterclockwise. As a result, one finger can be assigned to 50% to 70% of the keys. Hence only two or three fingers can operate the entire keyboard. Since each finger need not be assigned only to a specific group of keys, it will be avoided that the same finger is used too often. For the same reason, a fingering confusion will not occur at all. A smooth key operation can thus be expected.

The arrangement of keys and the assignment of each key to two or more characters have been determined by various analysis works. Among the analysis works are: tables showing the frequency of typing two, three or four letters in succession, provided by the New York Times; tables showing the frequency of using English words, prepared by Fletcher Plat; table of braille types, prepared by Mr.

Braille; tables showing the frequency of using Roman letters in spelling Japanese words according to the official rule, prepared by Junkoh Osada, a Japanese authority on Japanese cryptogram; tables showing the frequency of using Kanas, prepared by Junkoh Osada; and Shiro Matsuura "A Study of Authorized Roman Letter Spelling System". The other analysis works used are the typing textbooks and shorthand textbooks published both in Japan and abroad. Further, the official reports, treatises and data on two-hand keyboard operation were analyzed. Still further, the one-hand keyboard operation disclosed in the article "Code Keyboard" in "Computers", December 1978 and the one-hand keyboard operation on the existing pocket-size electronic calculators were studied by analysis.

In order to shorten the waiting time in inputting the letters representing a three-consonant cluster (often produced in German) and a triphthong (often produced in English), both the design and function of an electronic circuit must be further studied. In inputting Roman letters it would be preferred that two or three letters are input in a rapid succession and a pause or break is then provided. In inputting Japanese Kanas it would be preferred that two Kanas are inputted in a rapid succession and a pause is then given (to input two Kanas the operator must input four Roman letters or three Roman letters the last of which is "N".) A rhythmical and efficient keyboard operation would then be accomplished.

As described above, the keyboard device shown in Figure 2 comprises one Bit key which serves as a home position key and character keys which surround the Bit key. The character keys are arranged in accordance with the phonetical rules. When the Bit key and any character key are depressed, a ternary electric signal will be generated. The arrangement of the keys illustrated in Figure 2 present a simple geometric pattern which can be well recognized at a glance. The pattern can be correctly perceived either visually and aurally.

In addition to the Roman letter keys, numeral keys, symbol keys and control keys are provided to complete the keyboard according to the invention.

The input keyboard device of the invention is thus highly practical. Five numeral keys are arranged in a row which is located above the upper row of the Roman letter keys. They are: 10.71 key, 2,3 key, 4,5 key, 6,7 key and 8 9 key. That is, each numeral key is assigned to two numerals, the first numeral being an even number and the second numeral being an odd number, except for the E 1 key. To input any even number it suffices to depress the key assigned to it.

To input any odd number, however, the operator must at the same time depress the Bit key and the key assigned to the odd number. In order to input and odd number it may be necessary to move the thumb to depress the key assigned to the odd number. The decimal point is regarded as a symbol and is therefore identical with the full stop. The symbol key assigned to the full stop is positioned far from the Bit key so that it is not erroneously depressed or mistakenly left undepressed.

In order to determine the optimum positions for the symbol keys the symbols are classified into two groups, a group of symbols which are often used and another group of symbols which are less frequently used. The keys assigned to the symbols of the first group are shown on the surface of keys, whereas those assigned to the symbols of the second group are transferred to another program and its face. The addition sign, subtraction sign, multiplication sign, division sign, equal sign, decimal point, percentage sign and root sign are provided in order to perform arithmetic operation, not in order to print these signs.In order to bring an arithmetic logic unit into operation, thus performing arithmetic operations on the numerical data input by depressing the numeral keys and the keys assigned to the arithmetical signs, as "arithmetic operation shift key" is disposed on the left side of the E key, in addition to the power-ON, OFF keys, as illustrated in Figure 2. A special function key, or a "zero sum key 0" (i.e. a repeater key) is located in the same row as the numeral keys. The zero sum key @ is effective in both word processing and numerical data processing. It is depressed to raise the speed and accuracy of processing astronomical numbers and large numbers with a recurring portion.Like the key assigned to the decimal point, the zero sum key 6 is located far from the Bit key so that it is not erroneously depressed or mistakenly left undepressed. For the same purpose the zero sum key 6 should better be positioned away from the numeral keys. It is desired that both the decimal point key and the zero sum key O be painted red, thereby visually distinguished from the numeral keys. The positional and visual distinction of these keys assists to prevent the inputting of wrong numbers.

In the embodiment of Figure 2 the keys assigned to the mathematical signs are depressed to thereby control the arithmetic operations. If these keys are to be depressed in order to print the corresponding signs, they may then be arranged as illustrated in Figure 3. As shown in Figure 3, each symbol key is assigned to two symbols, one of which is printed or input by depressing the key and the other of which is printed or input by depressing the Bit key and the symbol key at the same time. Punctuation marks, such as.,?, ! """", :,; and ', and',and accent marks used in various languages are classified into frequently used ones and less frequently used ones. The marks of the first category are allotted to the Roman letter keys shown in Figure 2, and those of the second category are allotted to the symbol keys shown in Figure 3. Of the accent marks each of which is used in combination with a letter representing a vowel or Figure 3 illustrates which key is assigned to two or more symbols in the embodiment of Figure 2. The data representing these symbols are stored in memory programs, and the symbols are not printed on the respective keys. Instead, pieces of a transparent, flexible and elastic film (i.e. vinyl film or Celluloid film) with these symbols printed may be adhered to the respective keys. The numeral and character representation of the keyboard is therefore simpler and more distinctive than that of the known input keyboard device.

As shown in Figure 2, a key for moving the platen half a line space in either direction is provided on the right edge of the keyboard. This key is depressed so that a suffix is printed a little above or below a numeral or a character already printed. Another key for moving the printing head half a stroke distance to the left or the right is provided also on the right edge of the keyboard. When these two keys are depressed at the same time, a numeral or a character is printed at the same position as another numeral or character already printed, whereby stamping is achieved.

These keys allow for printing of the various scientific notations.

Two Kana shift keys are provided, one on the left edge of the keyboard and the other on the right edge of the keyboard. When one of them is depressed, Kanas can be input or printed. When one of them is depressed again, Roman letters can then be input or printed. When one Kana shift key and one Shift key are depressed, small Kanas can be input or printed.

Further, when one Kana shift key and two Shift keys are depressed, large Hiraganas may be input or printed. Still further, when both Kana shift keys and both Shift keys are depressed, Chinese characters can then be input or printed. When the same key operation is made again, Chinese characters can be no longer input or printed. Moreover, when both Kana shift keys and one Shift key are depressed, small Hiraganas may be input or printed. Whenever the character shift key or keys and one Shift key are depressed in succession, the character size is changed. Except for the switching of character size, the Bit key may be depressed instead of the Shift keys to thereby change the kind of characters. When Roman character key and two Shift keys are depressed, the Roman letter will be input or printed in italic.

When small Kanas are input after printing one or more large Hiraganas, the small Kanas will be automatically changed to the corresponding Chinese character or characters. This automatic Kana Chinese character conversion is stopped when a large Hiragana is input and printed. In short, when the Kana shift keys and the Shift keys are depressed in various combinations, Roman letters are changed to Kanas, Hiraganas or Chinese characters. This technique makes it possible to print Japanese writing which consists of Kanas, Hiraganas and Chinese characters, at a high speed. This is because it is much easier for the operator to depress the Roman letter keys than to depress Kana keys and Chinese character keys which should be provided in great numbers.

A "word shift" key is provided on the left edge of the keyboard. Like the symbol key, this key is depressed to bring into operation electronic devices, such as a code converter for generating threedimensional coordinate signals or memory circuits.

Once the electronic devices start, the keyboard is considered as a blank sheet with only a 3-rows, 5-column matrix printed on it or a 4-rows, 5-column matrix printed on it. In other words, when the word shift key is depressed, the keyboard can be used as a so-called "one touch keyboard" or a so-called "plate." In order to temporarily change the outlook of the key arrangement, pieces of vinyl film which are transparent, soft and elastic but being of the same color as the surfaces of the keys and on which characters, marks and symbols are printed in a different color may be bonded to the respective keys.

The input keyboard device according to the invention can be used as a word processor of pocket size, which is operated to input proper nouns (e.g. the names of places, persons' names), common nouns used in classifying codes, technical terms used in a specific field of art, idiomatic expressions, set phrases, frequently used words, conventionally worded short sentences and abbreviations used in shorthand description. In order to retrieve these data from the memory circuits or memory devices a "retrieve shift key" which is located beside a "operation key" in the upper-most row is depressed.

When the "word shift key" is depressed, 38 items of data represented bythe4-row, 5-column key matrix, except for the "Bit" key (i.e. nineteen keys) can be input. When the numeral keys are excluded, a 3-row, 5-column key matrix (i.e. fourteen keys) is provided which is operated to input 28 items of data.

Further, when the word shift key and either Shift key (which is depressed by the thumb or little finger) are used as function keys, then 76 items of data can be input by operating the 4-row, 5-column key matrix and 56 items of data can be input by operating the 3-row, 5-column matrix. If the L [ o key is used as a retrieve key and the [ U- keys are used as page (program) number keys in the latter case, 252 pairs of items, or 504 items of data, such as words or phrases, can be input. In practice, however, the amount of data that can be input is limited by the capacity of the memory devices used. In order to designate the memory devices two "memory keys" are provided in the right edge of the keyboard.The first memory key is to designate the memory device M1 or M2, and the second memory key is to designate the memory device M3 or M4. They are selectively depressed so that the memory devices are used to achieve either arithmetic operations or word processing, as the character shift key, word shift key and operation shift key are optionally depressed. A control key, or ICICLE | key is provided in the upper-left corner of the keyboard. The control key performs substantially the same functions as the tL C key and CE key both included in the keyboard of a so-called "desk-top calculator". In other words, it is depressed to erase all the data stored in the memory devices or a part of the data stored in the memory devices.

The power switches, the power input terminals, a display, the m'C/CLi key, the retrieve shift key, the operation key, the character (Roman letter) keys, the symbol keys, the word shift key, the Kana shift keys and some other keys are arranged symmetrical with respect to the vertical center line of the keyboard. In addition, a few output terminals, a few output switches, two memory designating keys, two keys for moving the platen and the printing head and the Kana shift key are arranged in a row on the right edge portion of the keyboard. These keys are depressed in various combination in succession to thereby input various items of data. This is how the input keyboard device of the invention functions.

Fully using the capacity of the memory devices provided, other letters than Roman letters can be input or printed by depressing the word shift key. For example, Greek letters (both capitals and small letters), letters used in Slavic languages, Arabic letters used in the Mideast countries, letters used in the Burmese and Thai languages or letters used in Korean may thus be input or printed. The input keyboard device of the invention may thus possibly contribute to some extent to the cultural advancement in the regions where these languages are spoken. The input keyboard device can be used in many countries, both Oriental and Occidental.

The space key and the various shift keys are important features to the keyboard device according to the invention. They make it possible to assign each character or numeral key to two or more characters or numerals and thus makes it possible for the operator to the keyboard with only one hand, both quickly and smoothly. The space key, the shift keys, the numeral keys and the character keys constitute a complete input keyboard device.

Linguistic information is understood when many items are put together, no matter whether it is a visual or aural stimulation. The items of linguistic information are produced at intervals. Without pauses or spaces among them, they can hardly be understood and can hardly be put together into an understandable information. It is therefore important how the spaces be treated in word processing.

Today the electronic technology has emerged from the old metal machining age. So-called "communication technology" is now much more importantthan before. Pauses and spaces among items of linguistic information must be provided by electronic devices in the most natural way possible. The advanced electronic technology of today can do this assignment well. More specifically, two or more space keys are arranged on a keyboard, side by side, and are electrically connected to the memory devices and counters- all provided in a microcomputer. According to the invention, three space keys SP are arranged in a row, below the lowermost row of the character keys.

Hence not only one finger but a few fingers can be used to provide a space between two adjacent characters, numbers or symbols. Since many spaces must be provided in printing data of various types, this would shorten the time necessary for inputting the data. Two or three space keys SP may be depressed in a rapid succession so that two or three spaces are input one after another. In particular, when the space keys are depressed in "101" pattern, the "word separation" - that is, putting a one character space between any two adjacent words can be automatically achieved, not by depressing one space key SP, then a few character keys and finally one space key SP. That is, relatively short words, such as articles, pronouns, prepositions or conjunctions, or shorthand abbreviations - each consisting of one, two or three characters - may be extremely effectively input.This is possible because computer programs and interruption function of the microcomputer can be effectively utilized in the present invention.

It is possible to move the printing head backwards by depressing any space key SP and either Shift key (either one to be depressed by the thumb or the little finger). In other words, a back space key may be dispensed of. Hence the printing head can be moved to the right or the left and the platen can be rotated in either direction, little by little and yet at a high speed, whereby the printing head is moved to any desired printing position.

With the input keyboard device according to the invention, each character, numeral or symbol key is depressed by one finger and one character, numeral or symbol key and either Shift key are depressed by one finger or two in a rapid succession, with the hand firmly supported. This is the basic idea of key operation according to the present invention. The forefinger, middle finger and ring finger of one hand are chiefly used to depress the keys to thereby input various kinds of data. Each of these fingers is assigned to specific keys. Nonetheless, the other fingers, i.e. the thumb and little finger, can be used, too. That is, the thumb and the little finger may, needless to say, be used instead of the neighbouring fingers to depress the keys.The thumb and the little finger may rest on the left and right Shift keys, respectively, while the forefinger, middle finger or ring finger is staying on the Bit key, whereby the hand is steadily supported.

Accordingly, in most cases the Shift keys are depressed by the thumb and the little finger, whereas the other keys are depressed by the forefinger, middle finger and ring finger, and the thumb and the little finger can yet be used in place of the other three fingers to depress the character, numeral or symbol keys. This means that the key-finger association is quite optional or selective. In order to facilitate the semi-simultaneous depression of a character, numeral or symbol key and a Shift key, a plurality of Shift keys are provided. More precisely, two Shift keys and one Bit key, with the Shift keys placed at the two verticles on the base of a triangle and the Bit key placed at the top vertex of the triangle. This arrangement of the three Shift keys is determined after considering the physical features and functions of the fingers, the frequency of using the fingers either singly or in combination and the frequency of using two-character words and three-character words.

(Three space keys are provided in a row between the two Shift keys on the base of said triangle.) Obviously, the shift key operation utterly differs from the shift key operation performed on the input keyboard devices hitherto known. The arrangement of the shift keys according to the present invention does not hinder the entire key operation at all. Rather it helps lessen the fatigue that the operator may suffer after operating the keyboard for a long time.

According to the present invention, whenever any character, numeral or symbol key and any Shift key (including the Bit key) are depressed, a ternary electric signal will be generated. When only the Bit key is depressed, no effective signal will be generated, as stated in paragraph (F). This means that, if any Shift key is depressed only once, no effective signal will be generated. This prevents the inputting of an erroneous data even if the Shift keys are depressed by mistake. Further, as long as the thumb, middle finger and little finger rest on the left Shift key, the Bit key and the right Shift key, respectively, the hand, arm and shoulder are supported stable. It follows that the physical and mental fatigue which the operator may suffer can be reduced and that the efficiency of data input operation may thus be raised.

As mentioned above, either the left Shift key or the right Shift key and one of the three space keys SP may be depressed in a rapid succession to move the printing head backwardly, i.e. from the right to the left. The Shift keys may be used to perform other functions. When two of them and the keys assigned to mathematical symbols "+", "-", "=", "x" and "/"and arranged in a row right above the row of the Shift keys and the space keys SP are depressed, the direction of data output or data transmission may be controlled. Moreover, when the left Shift key and the right Shift key is depressed twice, the shift locking or the shift unlocking may be accomplished.Still further, when one or both of the Shift keys and the Kana shift key are depressed in a rapid succession, the switching between small Kana printing and Hiragana printing ortheswitchinq between Hiragana printing and Chinese character printing can be achieved. In other words, the Shift keys are depressed together with the other keys to thereby expand the scope of function of the other keys. The Shift keys much contribute to simplification of the key arrangement and rational use of the other respective keys. The two Shift keys are located at such positions that the thumb and the little finger may easily depress them or may rest on them. One or both of them may be electronically connected to any other key, thus making it possible that two or more operations are selectively initiated when each of the other keys is depressed.The Bit key, or the home position key, works just in the same way as eigher Shift key.

The size and shape of each key are determined in such a way that the keys constitute a keyboard which has a harmonious appearance and which is easy to operate. Totally unlike the keys of the known input keyboard devices, the keys are provided in four differentsizes-"large", "medium", "small" and "very small". The keys of "medium" size are as broad as the nail of the middle finger. The two keys sandwiching the Bit key and the two other keys also sandwiching the Bit key each have two corners cut off so that one finger may smoothly move from the Bit key to any of these four keys, or vice versa. These four keys are of the medium size. The four large keys, any adjacent two of which sandwich one of the four medium-size keys, each have a piece of soft material bonded on the corner which faces the Bit key.Each of the small keys should preferably have slanted sides so that it has a trapezoidal cross section. Alternatively, each small key should preferably have an outwardly, top-down curved upper surface. The small keys are assigned to the symbols which are used far less often than numerals and characters, and some of them are control keys which are rarely depressed. Use of keys of different sizes and shapes is disadvantageous in view of mass production of the keyboard device, but helps to provide an input keyboard device which can be operated with a high efficiency.

All the features of the invention mentioned above, which are determined by various human factors such as linguistic psychology (both morphological and phonetical), physiology, logics or the motion of fingers, are combined, thereby providing an input keyboard device which is simple in key arrangement, which is thus easy to operate and which fast responds to key depression owing to the use of the advanced electronic technology of today.

The embodiment illustrated in Figures 2 and 3 is designed for use by the right hand. If the keyboard is to be operated by the left hand or both hands, the following additional measures have to be taken: (i) In view of the physical features of man and the motion of the fingers which is controlled by the cerebrum, the keys are arranged symmetrical with respect to the vertical line which is perpendicular to the backbone. Electric signals which are generated when the keys are operated are either a twodimensional coordinate signal or a threedimensional coordinate signal so that the keys are equivalently used, no matter which side of the vertical center line they are located. The electric circuits used are, as a rule, identical with those of the embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 3.

(ii) On the other hand, the visual notations for the respective keys must be specially designed so that they may be easily converted into the conventional ones, i.e. the visual notations arranged in the left-to-right order or they may be replaced by totally different ones. Each key must be provided at such a position with respect to the Bit key and the Shift keys that one of the marks to which it is assigned may be replaced by another.

In the case of an input keyboard device which can be operated by either the left hand or the right-hand, the electrical, electronical and mechanical features are used for both the left-hand key operation and the right-hand key operation. In other words, the electric circuits and the keys are consolidated in two onehand modules. The electrical contacts and the lower ends of the key members should better be so arranged that the circuit elements provided on either side of the printed circuit board may be selectively used. The keyboard device will then be manufactured and sold in larger quantities than otherwise and will then be used by more people than otherwise.

The two one-hand modules are arranged symmetrical with respect -o the vertical center line and are coupled to each other. They may be alternately used by assistance of a code converter or a memory. The operator can then operate the keyboard device with both hands. This is another advantage of the present invention.

Since the key arrangement for the left-hand key operation is exactly symmetrical to that for the right-hand key operation, the cerebrum suffices to control the motion of the fingers of either hand in the same manner. The theoretical and systemized arrangement of keys helps to reduce the time that a person need to spend until he learns how to operate the keyboard device, by as much as 50% or more.

Further, since one keyboard may be provided for one hand and another keyboard for the other hand and two keys may be assigned to the same character and since two adjacent fingers may depress the same key, the use of fingers is far more optional than otherwise. With the input keyboard device of the invention it is therefore possible for the operator to input data easily, smoothly and rhythmically. The device according to the invention therefore solves the various problems inherent to the conventional input keyboard devices.

When two keyboards are provided, the operator can input data much more quickly by using both hands. The wait time between the input of characters forming a long, difficult word can be minimized if the operator uses both keyboards. In brief, data can be input at a higher speed when both keyboards are operated than only when one of them is operated.

Further, the two-hand, or two-keyboard operation is preferable, because the operator's fatigue can be halved by two hands. The three-point support of the hand, arm and shoulder, which is achieved by placing the thumb, middle finger and little finger respectively on the left Shift key, the Bit key and the right Shift key, also reduces the operator's fatigue.

The operator can therefore input data fast and rhythmically for a long time without being tired very much. It is not hard for the operator to operate the input keyboard device of the invention, to thereby elevate the data input efficiency 50% to 60% or more over the data input efficiency which is possible with the conventional input keyboard devices. As far as a short time key operation is concerned, it would not be difficult for the operator to input as much data as a shorthand typist types shorthand script. To sum up the foregoing, any person can learn in a short time how to operate the input keyboard device according to the present invention. Once he has learned to operate the keyboard, he can input data or print them correctly and quickly without being tired very much.

The data input rhythm is based on three-phoneme closed syllable (i.e. "consonant-vowel-consonant"), in inputting English or any other Germanic language. in this case a right-handed person, for example, depresses a key or keys rapidly to enter two (or three) characters by a finger or fingers of the right hand and another key or keys rather slowly to enter one (or two) character by the opposite hand.

The operator must make efforts to depress the desired keys with the fingers of both hands, thus inputting a three-phoneme closed syllable in triple time. The data input rhythm is based on twophoneme open syllable (i.e. "consonant-vowel"). In inputting Japanese words, Malay words, the languages used in the Pacific islands and the Romance languages except for French. A right-handed person, for example, first uses the right hand to input a consonant letter and then a vowel and then uses the left hand to input a consonant letter and then a vowel letter, whereby two-phoneme open syllables are entered.In inputting a Japanese Kana which is a syllable consisting of a voiced consonant and a vowel or consisting of a consonant, Iyl and a vowel, a right-handed person, for example, first uses the left hand to input the consonant letter or letters and then uses the right hand to input the vowel letter. Special Japanese Kanas 'S " and '?""(either represented by Roman letters "WU") and " v " (represented by Roman letters "WO") are input by depressing the keys, using only the fingers of the right hand if the operator is right-handed. In order to input French words, Chinese words and Slavic language words which contain two-phoneme syllables and threephoneme syllables, the two methods mentioned above may be used together.These methods of inputting the words of various languages and the key arrangement described above cooperate to make it possible for any person to input words at a higher speed than is possible with the conventional input keyboard devices.

Indeed the two-hand, or two-keyboard device does not achieve the object of the invention, i.e. reduction of the number of keys and contacts required and reduction of cost. However, the device is drastically improved with respect to the operation efficiency.

The user can quickly and accurately operate the device to thereby input desired data at a high speed, without being tired very much. As the information industry expands, the demand for the device will increase. It will then be required that the device should be manufactured in great quantities, and the manufacturers will earn much profit.

The input keyboard device according to the invention can input numerical data and perform addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. It can thus be used as a so-called desk-top calculator. If it is made sufficiently small, it can then be used as a pocket calculator. Further it may be used as an electronic counter for counting various items for statistical purposes. Still further it may be connected to a printer for printing characters to be read by an OCR, so that price tags, lables or classification cards are printed in small numbers and in various kinds.

Alternatively, it may be connected to a memory device, so that the results of sales search, the result of retail sales or the result of inventory search is recorded. If connected to a memory device, the input keyboard device is useful in recording stock-taking data. In order to input 16-scale numbers, the device is used as the keyboard of a microcomputer. If the device is used only for inputting numerical data, it can be further miniaturized. Since the input keyboard device is just as large as a hand, it can be attached to a so-called "mini-printer." The device which can be used to input both numerical data and characters is useful particularly on business trip; it can be used even in an airplane.

Designed according to various human factors, the input keyboard device can be so operated as to input desired data both quickly and accurately. For the same reason any person can learn to operate it even when he is blindheld. The operator can input data even in the darkness. The device may be used in combination with what is called "electronic translator." In this case, the device becomes very useful for a person traveling abroad, who cannot speak the languages used there. Since it is easy for any person to acquire a blind touch control of the device, the device.may be connected to a braille typewriter or an electronic typewriter. In this case, the communication among visually handicapped persons and among ordinary peoples is well accomplished, so that the intellectual power of both the visually handicapped and the ordinary people can be fully used.In the similar ways the device will much contribute to the communication among eldery people. Moreover, the input keyboard device may be connected to a voice output device or may contain a voice generating device, to thereby help people, who lose speech permanently or temporarily for some time after an operation, to express their mind. Still further, the device may be connected to a display so that a person who has lost hearing can "talk" with the ordinary people. If the device is connected to either a voice output device or a display, even a person who is handicapped visually, orally and aurally can correctly and quickly communicate with other people. The device therefore helps such a person to participate in a conversation, a discussion and a conference and, needless to say, to enrich his dailylife.

The input keyboard device of the invention may be used also by a person who has lost both hands because its key arrangement is designed on the basis of human factors. For example, the Bit key may be replaced by a treadle switch, and the keyboard may be made as large as a letter envelope and be put on a music stand. The handicapped person holds in his mouth a hard rubber stick shaped like a pencil and depresses the keys of the keyboard to input desired data. To help the handicapped persons to communicate with each other or with ordinary people, an acoustic coupler may be connected between the kayboard device they use. For the same purpose an output device fit for use by a handicapped receiver may be used in connection with his keyboard device. The keyboard device according to the invention will then be quite a convenience for the handicapped persons.For not only the handicapped but other people the input keyboard device of the invention is a novel means of expressing their thought, which can be operated almost automatically with fingers. The keys of the keyboard device are so arranged that the operator's fingers need not make an unnecessary motion. The operator can thus operate the keyboard device accurately fast without being tired. The device can therefore contribute to the cultural, scientific, industrial and economic development.

Besides such a personal use as mentioned above, a large-scale use of the input keyboard device is possible. That is, the device may be used in great quantities in an organization, such as a hospital, a school, a private enterprise or a public institution.

Since the fruit of the human factors engineering is crystallized into the key arrangement according to the invention, the input keyboard is easy to operate.

It is therefore easy to learn how to operate the input keyboard device. Any person needs a little practice to learn to accurately operate the device. In other words, a short time training makes any person a good keyboard operator. Whenever he feels his skill gets rusted, he can easily regain the skill merely by a repeated practice. A number of competitive key operators can therefore be provided in a short period of time. This meets the needs of an information oriented society.

The input keyboard device of the invention may be used in combination with a display or a touch stimulation device to thereby achieve a "voiceless communication", which is necessary in a place where it must be quiet, such as a hospital (particularly, an operation room and a room of serious cases), the monitoring/mixing room of radio or TV station, a music studio, a telephone operators' room. In this case, an acoustic coupler, an intra-station radio or another data transmission means is used in combination with the input keyboard device according to the present invention. The keyboard device can be used in place of a transceiver because it can be accurately operated in the darkness through the blind touch key operation. It can be used by the police or guardmen in night patrol. In short, the device is useful for security work.It works well to achieve communication at night between people who work together.

The input keyboard device of the invention is useful also for education. It may be used as a writing means for pupils and students in the CAI audiovisual education system. In this case, the features of the device which are the fruits of human4actors engineering enable the users to retrieve and input character data very smoothly and fast. The pupils or students can thus quickly respond to the teacher's direction or instruction, operating the keyboard devices. Using a portable shortwave transmitter and a large display both connected to the input keyboard device, the teacher can save time and labor which he usually spends on writing things on the blackboard and erasing them off the blackboard. Using the time thus saved, he may more contact the students to thereby achieve a more effective and fruitful education.

The input keyboard device according to the invention may be attached to the terminal equipment of a computer on-line system used in private business or public institutions. It can then be used to retrieve data from the central processing unit, ask questions and get answers from the central processing unit.

Further it can then be used as means for a dialog system. If the device is used in this way, it would help to raise the accuracy of data inputting and shorten the time necessary to input data and would thus help to save both time and cost which are otherwise wasted for using the data transmission lines and the cent. al processing unit. A speedy dialog which is possible with the use of the input keyboard device of the invention serves to establish a good business relation between the users. The input keyboard device according to the invention can work well in combination with either input method employed in the computer system, the centralized data processing or the decentralized data processing. When it is used for the centralized data processing, less operators are needed and the productivity is raised.When it is used for the decentralized data processing, many operators can, quickly and accurately, input and retrieve whichever data they want, which also helps to improve the productivity from another direction. Both the methods may be taken free.

The input keyboard device may be useful when used in combination with office machines such as calculators or word processors. It is easy to operate, and people need not spend much time to learn how to use it correctly and fast. The keyboard device can be fully used even in small and medium enterprises and even in the small sections of a big business. The device is too small to occupy a large part of the desk top. Since a blind touch operation is possible with the device, the user can keep his eyes on the original; he need not turn his face repeatedly from the keyboard to the original, and vice versa. He can thus do his work faster than otherwise, thus enhancing his own work efficiency. If the input keyboard device is used in preparing and filing resident cards, both data input and data retrieval will be carried out very fast.People who come to the office to have them recorded on the resident register or get a copy of their resident cards need not wait for an unnecessarily long time. When used in combination with an electronic typewriter or a word processor, the input keyboard device will much imDrove the efficiency of document preparation because its function and the function of the typewriter or the word processor bring forth a synergetic effect. Since the keys of the device are arranged according to the phonetic and logical features which are common to many languages used all over the world, the device can be used to input or print the words of any language.

Persons working for a Japanese company outside Japan may soon learn howto input Japanese words as well as the words of the language used there. The foreigners working in Japan may use the input keyboard device to write Japanese as well as their mother tongues. The keyboard device can therefore help smoothen communication between the Japanese and the other peoples. In other words, the device is very helpful to the persons working for Japanese enterprises overseas and the foreigners working in Japan. It is also useful to Japanese students studying abroad. The device would be a useful means for making Japanese develop into an international language. From an international point of view it may revolutionize the office work.

The embodiment described above is an input keyboard device for inputting numerical data and Roman character data. The device can be operated by any person who received the compulsory education, either a handicapped or a foreigner, whenever and wherever, accurately and quickly without being tired very much. The device stems from the rules of human-factors engineering in regard to key arrangement (numeral keys, character keys and symbol keys), the rules of natural science (human perception, self-control, the motion of fingers) and the recent advancement of the electronic technology.

As mentioned above, the input keyboard device according to the present invention is small enough to be operated by a single hand. Since it is barely as large as a palm, it can be put into a desk drawer or in a pocket provided in a related apparatus. Further it may be put on the driver's seat. The device can be used as a control device for controlling lighting and heating at home and various home-use electric devices. It may be used also for selecting the channels of radio, television and video recorder, now that more and more cable TV stations and radio and TV stations are coming into operation. The input keyboard device of the invention can be used effectively to remote-control vehicles and flying objects. It may of course be used to remote-control industrial robots. What is more, it is very useful because it can transmit data at a high speed.The device may be attached to the sight of guns and artillery. The miniaturization of input keyboard devices, reduction of the number of electrical contacts required and the simplification of electronic circuitry, which are all made possible by the present invention, will bring forth a great profit and will help promote the electronic industry.

The description given above is concerned with inputting of data. The input keyboard device of the invention can be used to erase data, nonetheless.

More specifically, assisted by the programs and memories of a microcomputer, the device may be operated to input data and, if necessary, erase the data. When a specific key operation is performed, desired data are input or invalidated, and when the same key operation is performed twice, the data are erased. Moreover, the device may be used to input a system mode switching signal. Assisted by a mechanical device, the input keyboard device may input data (ON or LOCK operation) when operated for the first time, then erase data (OFF or UNLOCK operation) when operated for the second time, and input data (ON or LOCK operation) when operated for the third time, and so forth. Either method of erasing data may be chosen according to various conditions under which the device is used.

To sum up the foregoing, the present invention can provide an input keyboard device which has keys and electrical contacts half the number of those used in a known input keyboard device, which uses a simplified circuitry and which is thus small, light and portable. The device is the fruit of the human-factors engineering. Made small and portable, it can be used anywhere and whenever the user wants to. The numeral keys and Roman letter keys are arranged according to the rules of the human-factor engineering, so that the keys are depressed by one or two fingers of one hand, which is firmly supported. Even a visually handicapped person can operate the device because it is easy for him to learn the blind touch key operation. Of course it is easy for the odinary people to learn how to operate the device blind held. The device can therefore be accurately operated even in the darkness. The device helps to enhance the efficiency of data inputting. Further, the device serves to promote communications among the peoples of the world because its keys are arranged according to linguistical rules, particularly phonetical rules, which are common to various languages used today in various regions of the world. For this reason the input keyboard device of the present invention may help us further advance civilization. As it is easy for any person to learn how to use the device, the device can be said to give people the chance of enjoying the fruit of the advanced electronic technology.

Claims (10)

1. An input keyboard device for inputting different data by selectively operating a plurality of code keys one at a time, operating a selected code key and a bit shift key at the same time and operating two selected code keys at the same time, characterized in that said bit shift key is provided in the central position of the keyboard, and said code keys are arranged around said bit shift key so that said bit shift key and one or more of said code keys may be operated at the same time with one or two fingers of the operator's one hand.

2. An input keyboard device according to claim 1, wherein said bit shift key and code keys are coupled to an electro-mechanical AND circuit, thereby preventing data input by depressing the bit shift key alone.

3. An input keyboard device according to claim 1, wherein said code keys are arranged in three rows having a middle row and upper and lower side rows, said bit shift key is positioned at a center portion of the middle row defined as a home position.

4. An input keyboard device according to claim 1, wherein waving horizontal grooves are cut in the surface of said bit shift key, waving vertical grooves are cut in the surface of the code keys on a vertical center line of the keyboard, and a recess is made between the bit shift key and one of the code keys facing the bit shift key, so that a tip of middle finger of an operator may be put into the recess, whereby the operator can known a reference position of the input keyboard device.

5. An input keyboard device according to claim 1, further comprising a set of space keys arranged in line with two shift keys positioned at both sides of said set of space keys, wherein said bit shift key is operated by middle finger and said two shift keys are operated by thrum and little finger, respectively.

6. An input keyboard device according to claim 1, wherein the bit shift key is rectangular, extending in the horizontal direction for a three-finger distance of forefinger, middle finger and ring finger.

7. An input keyboard device according to claim 5, wherein the bit shift key and the two shift keys are each an ON-OFF switch to form, in combination, a ternary signal only when the bit shift key or one of the shift keys is, at the same time, depressed with one of the code keys.

8. An input keyboard device according to any one of claims 1 and 7, wherein the code keys are designed for inputting Roman letters as shown in the accompanying Figure 2, the Roman letters being assigned to code keys arround the bit shift key according to vowels and consonants.

9. An input keyboard device according to claim 1, wherein ten fundamental numbers 0 to 9 are so divided into five groups, 0,1; 2,3; 4,5; 6,7 and 8,9 that the first five fundamental numbers 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 of the five groups form a progression having a common difference of 2.

10. An input keyboard device, substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.