CA1213987A - Touch type computer keyboards - Google Patents

Abstract

Abstract of the Disclosure A keyboard system has a keyboard geometric arrange-ment enriched in intersections of three keys achieved by offsetting or staggering adjacent keys. This provides a greater number of choices from a given number of keys actuable manually one, two or three at a time. The key layout permits touch typing with one hand where twelve keys provides full alphanumeric capabilities. Finger positions conform with human hand structure and include raised ridges for identifying some of the fingerstroke key selection locations. Thus, accurate high speed typing with either hand is feasible in a telephone dial space frame. The keyboard communicates by an X by Y communication channel matrix or telephone system compatible tone signals with computers, telephones, teletypes and like utility devices. Program steps and function selection is afforded by a self-cataloged two (or more) keystroke sequence to reduce programming time and increase the number of selections possible per key. Thus, as few as four keys and four wires can afford fourteen manual selections by a single fingerstroke in a single live key mode.

Description

TOUCH TYPE COMP~TER KEYBOARDS

Technical Yield This inventiorl relates to keyboards and more particularly it relates to touch type keyboards operable by one hand offering a ]arge number of key se].ection choices such as required for alphanumeric computer applications.

9~7 Background Art At this advanced stage of the development of the computer art coMmercially available chips provide systems capable of many types of functional operations and full alphameric data processing capabilities.
The keyboard computer input art has been developed to interface with computer systems. Thus, for example, U.S. Patent 3892958 - C. C. Tung provides a multiple key keyboard with means for chansing the mode of computer operation to adapt the keyboard to three different sets of functions, all illustrated on key-board indicia and with the three modes and correspond-ing key functions differentiated by indicia of three different colors, such as black, orange and ~lue.
Also other techniques are knoWn in the prior art for producing more functions per key in a keyboard assembly in an attempt to interface with more of the computer functions by a keyboard of modest size.
Exemplary are: U.S, Patent 4042777 - F C Bequaert et al , Aug 16, 1977 which permits chords of several simultaneously actuated keys to supplement individual keystrokes and thus expand the communication interface capabilities of a keyboard with a computer, German Publication DE 2924515 - S. Pretzsch published Jan. 15, 1981 provides for selection of more than one of several adjacent keys simult,aneously by a single fingerstroke to increase the number of selections on a keyboard; and U.S. Patent 4344069 - E. S. Prame, Aug. 10, 1982 provides a single handed keyboard with alphanumeric capabilities by selecting a sequence of keystrokes for alpha characters.

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However, none of these keyboards are operable to enter comprehensive data and ins~ructions in a computer in the touch mode similar to ~hat of touch typewriters, where data may be entered quickly and accurately by a t~ypist with little effort or explicit choice decisions after becoming acquainted with the keyboard layout. In particular, it is not feasible in the prior art~ to use a keyboard or so few keys that it can be operated by a single hand to enter a comprehensive set of different data and instructions, for example a hundred and rfifty different selectable choices that provides full alphanumeric data operation as well as full computer control and access. Furthermore, there have not been significant developments in the art, other than the above-mentioned patent ~,042,777, that relate to the interface of a one hand operated keyboard and a computer in such a way that touch typing can proceed. There have been no known such keyboard systems developed with the particular objects of one-handed computer entry with rapidity and elimination of the source of errors from such manual actions as hitting a wrong key, hitting extra keys, resting the fingers on a wrong set position or counting a sequence of numbered key actuations for an entry. No particular attention has been given to operator finger fatigue or avoidance of unnatural finger positions and reach.
Therefore this invention seeks to improve the state of the art by resolving some of these problems and providing improved keyboard systems not heretofore available in the art.
Other aspects, features and advantages of the invention will be found throughout the following description, the drawings and the claims.
Disclosure of the Invention The invention in its broad aspects as claimed herein pertains to a keyboard system characterized by a set of at least four keys of a geometric shape sharing adjacent sides .~Z~3~3t~

and arranged in an array with at least two common junctions where three keys meet at a common intersection of only three keys in a position accessible to a single finger overlapping the three keys at the intersections to actuate all three keys concurrently with a single fingerstroke.
A keyboard for use by one hand and adapted for entry of a large number of selec1ions including those for alphanumeric data processing and a large range of computer operation commands has ten keys providing direct entry of numerical digits plus a decimal key and at least one auxiliary command key. A
preferable arrangement uses twelve keys in a layout pattern particularly adapted for one hand selection by the fingers on either hand. The system, by means of "virtual" keys selectable by simultaneous actuation of two or more individual keys, provides typically at least one hundred and fifty selections with full alphanumeric data processing capability, wherein each entry requires a single fingerstroke. The keyboard is particularly adapted to the touch typing mode and provides an interaction of keys, layout, functional selection, system, etc. which avoids those mental requirements of choice on the part of an operator that lead to errors. Also, the system includes features which prevent errors due to physical fatigue or motion, particularly of the sort where unnatural motion, reach or position is required.
Thus, the keyboard has five columns coinciding with the natural position of the five fingers on a hand. The keys in adjacent columns are offset to permit the hand to use the board with the fingers in natural position. That is the middle finger is longer than the ring finger and index finger, and the thumb and little finger are the shortest. With this keyboard therefore the keys are offset to coincide with this natural finger length condition.

~3~3~3,7 To produce the many selection choices of entry such as more than one hundred and fifty, the keyboara operates in at least three modes, for example, each providins ~3irect entry with a single fingerstroke of fifty or rnore selections. Thus, a single finger selects either a single key or a plurality of keys appearing adjacent each other and sharing common sides on the keyboard layout. The offset keys further provide a wider range of keystroke choices than would otherwise be available.
To facilitate the touch system of key selection, groups of keys are provided with a single finger selection position not interfering with any other finger selection position by means of groups of associated discrete raised ridge portions vertically projected from the key-board surface at the lines of separation of the ~
adjacent keys. To extend the number of groupings possible several of the outermost keys are shaped to span more than one of the other keys in both the key columns and across a plurality of the columns.

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Brief Description of the Drawinqs _ . _ _ _ _ _ ln the drawings:
Figure 1 is a plan view of a twelve key keyboard assembly embodying a preferred embodiment of this invention;
Figure 2 is a sectional view taken along the lines

2-2 of Fi.gure 1 showing the elevational differences of the key surfaces configured for selection of a plurality of side-by-side keys for concurrent actuation by the stroke of a single finger;
Fiyure 3 is a sectional view taken along the lines

3-3 of Pigure 1 showing the raised portions 18 and 19 for concurrent actuation by the stroke of a single finger to provide the shift function;
Figure 4 is a sectional view taken along the lines

4-4 of Figure 1 showing the elevational differences of the key surfaces configured for selection of a plurality of upper-by-lower keys for concurrent actuation by the stroke of a single finger as illustrated;
Figure 4a is a sketch of the right hand identifying the finger nomenclature used throughout this patent application;
Figure 5 is a block system diagram of a computer system embodying the invention;
Figures 6 and 7 are examples of how the keyboard can be incorporated into computing instruments and show the approximate real scale of the keyboard in relation to well known components of the instruments;
Figures 8 and 9 are provided to show that the raised portions can have various shapes as dictated by ergonomic considerationsi Figure 10 is provided to show a 9 key embodiment of the invention provi.ding 35 single finger stroke positions;

Figure 11 is a 4-key embodiment of the invention providing 14 single fingerstroke positions and is the minimum desirable configuration of the invention;
Figure 12 is a schematic system diagram of a four-key, fourteen selection keyboard configuration operable with a 2 X 2 four wire switching matri~;
Figure 13 is a perspective view of a telephone incorporating the advances of this invention for telephone system applications; and Figure 14 is a plan view layout of a sixteen key keyboard embodiment.

1~3~7 The _ eferred Embodiment As may be seen in the plan view of Figure 1, a twelve key keyboard layout is afforded that provides a plurality in the oraer of fifty or more data or function selections as noted by the indicia. Thus, the twelve basic keys 15, 16, 17, etc. provide for the numeric digit entries as well as a pair of command keys for executing functions selected (15) or entering data into the computer (16). The latter key 16 may also be a decimal point key on a first stroke and a data entry key on the second stroke.
All the other entries are made from "virtual" keys by the concurrent selection of two or more of the twelve keys. This is made feasible in the touch mode for operation with a single hand, either right or left, using a single finger Eor stroking each entry in a well defined fingerstroke position easily accessible for the touch system. Thus groups of ridged key portions or bars 18, 19 or 20, 21 etc. are found throughout the key-board, as are profiled in Figures 2, 3 and 4.
To some extent the shape and size of the raisedportions are controlled to permit the labeling of the characters used. Touch tests using dummy models among a limited number of people indicate a divergence in preference as to the shape, height, length and touch area of the raised portions extending from the key-switch surfaces. Therefore I do not limit myself to any particular embodiment. Any changes that aid the user in actuating the keys singly or in multiples with a single fingerstroke is believed to be within the scope of the invention. To illustrate that changes can be made while maintaining workability of the invention the ridge shapes of Figures 8 and 9 may be observed.
Special shapes may be required for persons with long fingernails.

It is seen that for every indicia position, noting the function of the key stroke made at that location, is a finger selection spot where only one entry can be made. The single keys are actuated at the circles 22 or oblongs 23. The "virtual" keys comprising multiple key groups are actuated at the bar groupings such as the asterisk (~) at 20, 21 or the shift at 18, 19. The fingers thus in the touch rnode can engage only one entry position at a time. The digit 6 for example is recessed within the raised portions 24, 25, 26 which all move together and confine the finger to spot 6 to actuate only key 27. Conversely the finger at the asterisk 20, 21 engages the two raised bars only and actuate both keys 16 and 28, etc. The notation X between the 6 and 3 locates a fingerstroke position for operating the two keys 27 and 28 concurrently. The bars are not necessary (but may prove useful) at a]l such intersections, particularly since the finger touch senses a crack between two keys.
The notation ? is located between two bar pairs 20, 21 and 25, 30 and identifies a fingerstroke position for actuating three keys 16, 27, 28 simultaneously by means of ~our bars 20, 21, 2~, 30. Note that elongated columnar key 16 spans several (3, 6, 9) columnar keys to give a variety of combinations selectable at three bar pair locations 20, 21 and 25, 30 and 31, 32.
Similarly elongated cross spanning key 15 spans the five columns to provide five two key combinations. Note also that by the vertical row offset of the keys in the three center columns of keys a choice of two different keys in an adjacent column can be made in two key pairings such as the "M" and "K" and a set of three keys will result with a four bar selection as at V or Y.

I-t is seen therefore that enough selections (more than 50) can easily be made with twelve keys to give about the same capacity as a standard typewriter keyboard.
This is noteworthy since it can replace a standard telephone switch pane] (which normally uses 12 keys) and provide alphanumeric capability, requiring only one hand access.
The tactile identification of different single finger selection spots by bars, keys centers, line junctions, etc. herein considerably enhances the ability to touch type without errors because tactile feedback through the fingers indicates the selection being made.
Furthermore errors are caused by fatigue, unnatural and extensive reach and other such factors. Many of these error sources are overcome herein by the keyboard configuration and layout.
Consider the shape of a human hand, for example.
The middle finger is long, the ring and index finger of intermediate length and the thumb and little fingers are the shortest. As seen clearly in Figure 4a, the offset key layout thus fits the human hand to rest it naturally, reducing fatigue or unnatural reach, etc.
With only twelve keys the hand rest position is always evident and is more easily identified by tactile feedback.
Operational advantage and accuracy of this key-board is also evidenced by the single fingerstroke, single finger selection of every entry. Thus, the opeator need not think about chording or sequencing and is only required to do the simplest possible thing, select a finger spot and stroke it. Thus, a simple, comprehensive keyboard system is afforded enabling lower error touch type input into electronic data processing or computer systems ~0 as set forth in Figure 5.

In order to better match the keyboard to the multiple functions available in modern computers 40, the mode of operation can ~e changed, again by a single fingerstroke, to produce a di~ferent set of fifty or more ~unctions to the keys. Thus as seen by the small ~ and ~ no~ation in the 8 key (22~ three sets of indicia are locatea on the key~oard. ~ indicia may be orange and ~ blue for example to simply show the mode set in color coded form. Thus, on the bar pairs 20 and 21 (Figure l) color coded indicia will denote the selection of functions and data available and indicate by color code which mode selection key is required. For example if an "&" is required the shift key bar pair l~ and l9 (S - denoted for some keys as ~ ) must be stroked prior to the stroking of bar pair 20 and 21. If the special characters or functions such,~as *
denoted by ~ are requirea, the stroking of bar pair 20 and 21 mus~ be preceded by the XEQ key This shifting operation is a conventional one being practiced every day by typists and therefore has proven to be for many years a quite acceptable ergonomic procedure.
The twelve keys may be wired conventionally as shown in Figure 5 in a four by three matrix pattern 42 designated on block keyboard 41, ample to convey the unique codes for each of the designatea choices available. By conventional clocked code conversion 43, the data entry and functional command processing can be directed upon send signal 44 to computer 40 via 46. The computer output 45 may be directed to suitable devices such as alphanumeric displays, CRT tubes, printers, plotters, etc.
The nine keys for digits l to 9 in the three center-most columns, as shown in ~igure l, are of substantially the same si~e and shape to adapt to finger selection to operate the separate keys and concurrently operated 3~7 keys withou, interference~ ~lso the spacing of the keys is substantially the same as that used as industry "standard" on most typewriters and adding machines which to some extent will reduce the time required for an vperator to become proficient in the touch operation of the system. Even those users who do not become proficient with the touch system, such as many executives today, will fina the hunt and peck method far easier to use since the keyboard field over which they must hunt is so much smaller than the hunting area presented by the modern computer keyboard which can often have more than 100 keys. Also, the advantages of symmetry are provided for either right or left hand operation, and an improved keyboara system is made available for accurate and rapid touch type operation. Note the spacing of finger touch bars in Figure 4, wherein the finger can bridge two vertically separated bar groups that can be selected individually when desired. Also note that the finger can feel whether it is in a proper key position at various positions on the keyboard, further contributing to error free selections.
Note in consideration of Figures 1 and 4 together that raised finger contact structure defining finger-stroke position have portions cornmon to the sides of two adjacent keys, such as . and : or = and . ~his permits individual finger selection of the two adjacent keys 1, XEQ or 1, 2, etc. to permit a single finger to bridge a pair of the raised finger contact positions.
Accordingly, either one pair or both pairs of the key ridges straddling the common intersection of three and only three keys can be actuated by a single finger-stroke, thereby increasing the number of available unique fingerstroke selections. That is, either keys 1, 2 or keys 1, XEQ or keys 1, 2, XEQ can be selectively actuated by a single fingerstroke, and simi1arly this can occur at all the sixteen junctions of 3 and only 3 keys provicled in this embodiment.
Because this 12 key keyboard occupies so much less space than a conventional keyboard and because of its symmetry of design, it would be possible to have two such keyboaras feeding a single computer whereby the speed of entry into the computer could still further be enhanced since the operator could make use of both hands instead of only one. A1SG this keyboard is fully compatible with a telephone to provide complete communication capabilities.
Figure 6 shows an embodiment of the keyboard with t}.e keyboard coupled with a printer as utility ~eans and adapted to work with a data processing system in various modes, such as typing, adding, plotting, tele-type communication, arithmetic and programming modes.
This is readily attainable at the present state of the art by combining the computer operations of Figure 5 with display panel 50, printer 51 and switch selection 52, 53 options.
Note also the series of hinged charts 54 tabbed for identification, wherein a sequence of two keystrokes 10, 11, etc. are assigned corresponding functions such as program steps when the switches select the program steps in the program mode. This increases the capacity of the keyboard to use the full capability of modern computer chips with hundreds of possible functions with only twelve keys. Thus, a hybrid mode of operation is employed using the single stroke selections for the error-less typing input feature and expanding capabilities for ~ '9~

a simplified programming catalog of a diverse computer 'anguage that is self-explanatory and fully self-complete without reference to an instruction manual.
As seen from the two aecimal digit numbers in columns 56 of charts 54, the internally programmed subroutines of a computer such as addition, square root, or various built-in program subroutines identified conventionally by a program language word of va,iable length is identified by a fixed number X ~in this case 2) of numerical or other digits identifying the sequence of key stroXes necessary in a two and only two step function selection step. If the moae is program entry (PGM) as selected by switch 53 then a considerable saving of programming time and strokes are saved over conventional variable digit English program words.
Clearly the Fortran Statements INTEGER, RETURN, PRINT, CONTINUE, etc. each could be entered by two strokes each at a considerable saving of time ana with less chance for error.
This feature unexpectealy therefore can save a considerable amount of programming time over today's conventional program languages such as Fortran ana Basic, because for every program step only two keys need be operated. Yet the corresponding familiar English language or computer language steps may be written into the spaces 55 if desired for the convenience of those familiar with a particular language. Because of the plurality of hinged cards 54, several different modes of operation may be provided and cataloged.
Thus, both Fortran and Basic terminology could be related to the two-key sequence selection on different card sets 54. If three keys are selected in sequence, more unique entries a'e selectable (1000 with numeric numbers alone). If all the (55) keys inc]uding virtual are used with two strokes almost three thousand unique selections are available.
Thus by employment of a routine operational step such as limiting the significant decimal digits to two, the functional entries are made by a sequence limited to two (or more) key strokes identified in columns 56 for achieving the displayed functions to be written into blank spaces 55 for immedia-te access as a catalog of the available functions. It is estimated that a program may be entered in the program mode in this manner with less than one-third the number of key strokes, with a corresponding time saving.
In Figure 7, the multi-purpose printer--keyboard system is smaller in size and provides a very efficient pocket size typewriter-computer-communication medium with all the foregoing advantages of the novel key-board system.
Figure 10 is a simpler keyboard layout with onlynine keys, thus affording the advantage of operation with a 3 X 3 wire matrix selection network. Note that there are 35 separate fingerstroke positions so that full alphanumeric capability similar to ty,pewriter keyboards is afforded with all the other keyboard advantages hereinbefore discussed. Note that a field of substantially square keys as in Figure 1 is arranged in 1,3~g~

in three adjacent columns with the center column keys offset from the keys in the outer two columns to provide a plurality of ~ine three and only three key intersection positions.
A minimal number of keys for attaining numeric instructions to calculators, computers and the like is four as shown in the embodiment of Figure 11. ~he finger rest feature and offset key-columnar arrange-ment here offers the advantages of the prior versions as seen by the phantom hand superimposed over the key-board to permit touch operation by a single hand in comfortable position. With the four keys and ten virtual keys, fourteen selections are provided in a single mode with a live keyboard. In the three modes hereinbefore described (one preceded by X, one preceded by S and one direct) 52 selecti,ons are ~easible.
~his embodiment also has the program chart feature so that for example XEQ 21 will program or select the sine function, etc. With 14 direct selections at the corresponding stations A, B, C, etc., (Figure 12) as many as 183 separate functions can be programmed with a two-key sequence. Thus, the hybrid system of using a single fingerstroke per entry on typing and data input and using a two (multiple) fingerstroke per selection function in a programming mode significantly extends the power of the keyboard. It is certainly even more unexpected than that only four keys could produce 14 selections that a simple two-step stroke will permit the four keys to select 183 ~ 52 = 235 unique entries in the three mode live + ~ +
keyboard operation.
As may be seen by reference to Figure 12, this surprising expanded keyboard power is in part achieved 38~i~

by the teachiny of this invention that the keyboard pattern hereinbefore discussed in common with this embodirnent has groups of at least four keys 71, 72, 73, 74 sharing adjacent sides arranged in a geometrical pattern with at least two common intersectionS 75, 76, 77 of sets of three adjacent keys having a],l three keys meeting at a common intersection or junction of only three keys in a position accessible to a single finger overlapping the interSection to actuate all three keys simultaneously with a single fingerstroke (A, M, F, H). This provides along with the accompanying single keys (I, E, C, K) and dual side-by-side (B, D, G, J, L, ~) with corresponding finger access positions the fourteen direct selections available for a single fingerstroke.
In the conventional four corner intersection of non-offset keys, far fewer selections could be made ~ith a given number of keys. Also in a two by two matrix, only three combinations of three keys are available uniguely even if a finger coula seek out only three keys together. Thus, only 9 combinations are possible in that mode. For example, Pretzschs, German 924515, gets nine selections from four keys conventionally arranged.
Purthermore, it is surprising that a four wire communication channel (1, 2, A, B) will carry uniquely the full range capacity (253 as above shown) of unique entries available from the four keys. The chart 78 lays out the truth chart codes for the four lines 1, 2, A and B. Note that the key pattern is also non-conventional and contributes unexpectedly to a reduction in the number of channels required for communication in that the combinations of threes are used (A, F, H. M). This powerful expansion of key power afforded by this invention is correspondingly amplified with the yreater number o~
keys in the preferred embodiment of Figure l. The four key embodirnent is preferred for such applications as numerical or industrial control SyStem5, coded electronic locks and the like, particularly if wiring is required and fewer wires are advantageous Keys 73 and 7~ are connected to matrix line 1, keys 71 and 72 to matrix line 2, keys 72 and 73 to matrix line A and keys 71 2nd 7~ to matrix line B
to give the fourteen unique combinations shown on trulh table ~8. ..Thus.four communication channels A, B, l, 2 can hanale all ~he combinations and entrieS
of this minimai four key version of the invention.
A 2 X 2 matrix matrix of ~ire.s connects the keyboard keys as a comrnunication channel to means responsive to key actuation such as computer ~0 Each key inter-couples two of the matrix wires by actuation of the key, by such means as mechanical switches or eguivalents thereof to produce by a single fingerstroke in a single live key operation mode fourteen unique manual selections.
The versatility and applicability of the keyboard system afforded by this invention is exemplified by the embodiment seen in ~igure 13 Thus, a desk cradle type telephone 80 of conventional shape has a telephone line connection 81 and the keyboard 82 afforded by this invention. If desired other aevices may be acoustically coupled into handset 83 through modem unit 84 from a communicator coupled to cable 85. Also as provided by this invention, the panel 86 outlines a 3~
~9_ two step switching selection sequence in a yrogram mode which may be established by the execute key (XEQ) with a typical array of functions I,ine lights 87 may be provided, and any operating data ana messages may show on electronic display 88. Thus a most simple "PBX"
type switchboard with full communications and inter-computer connection capabilities is provided and is adaptable for use over the telephone system using conventional tone and/or digital communication techni~ues.
The local switchboard selections are of the coded type hereinbefore discussed in more aetail.
Note that the same keyboard can in this way une~pectedly eliminate the extra keys in conventional telephone switching systems provided for the switchboard selections. That is the keyboard aoes both the dialing function and the switching function and furthermore expands communications from numeric to alphanumeric plus.
In Figure 14 a field of sixteen keys is shown maximizing the three key junctions to provide twenty-two such combinations. A sixteen key field is convenient for use of a 9 X 4 wire matrix. In the illustrated embodiment the keys are shaped to produce seventy-five switching combinations of the single fingerstroke choices of one, two or three concurrently operated keys respectively outlined by the designated coded indicia.

3~37 For calculating all possible selections fr-om 16 keys (X) taken 3 (N) at a time in different combinations, the formula X - (X-l) + 1 may be used, taking into account that one key (XQ) is used as a common }cey simi]ar to a shift key As seen from the table which follows therefore in this embodiment 3601 extra selections of computer functions, addresses, catalog items, etc. could be indexed by the basic sixteen keys operable in a successive key selection mode (of three) such as illustrated in the switching charts of Figures 6, 11 and 13.
While certain preferred embodiments are explicitly shown herein other combinations of keys and key layout geometry are possible. Thus, the following table charts the number of functions (F) selec-table from keyboard arrays of the numbers of keys (X) between four affd fifty-five for sequences (N) of two, three and four successive strokes.

~3~t7 ~ - (X-l)n-l ~ 1 X = 4 X = 1 7 X = 3~1 X = 43 n = 2 F=13 n= 2 F=2r.) n = 2 F=871 n = 2 F=1,837 n = 3 F=37 n = 3 F=4.353 n = 3 F=25,231 n = 3 F=75,853 n = 4 F=IB9n = 4F=69.633 n= 4 F=731,671 n = 4 F=3,185,785 ~ -- -- _ * _ _ _ __ _ _ _ __ _ _ "~ _ _ _ _ _ X = 5 X = 18 X = 31 X = ~4 n= 2 F=21 n = 2 F=367 n= 2 F=931 n= 2 F=1,893 n = 3 F=81 n = 3 F=5~2B3 n = 3 F=27,9BI n=3 F=81,357 n= 4 F=321 n = 4 F=88,435 n = 4 F=837.031 n = 4 F=3,498,309 ____._*_____ _____*_____ _____~_____ _____~_____ X = ~X = 1 3 X = 32 X = ~5 n = 2 F=31 n~ 2 F=343 n = 2 F=993 n = 2 F=1.981 n= 3 F=151 n = 3 F=6,157 n= 3 F=3B,7S n= 3 F=87,121 n 4 F=751 n= 4 F=119,899 n = 4 F=953,313 n= 4 F=3,833,281 _____,~_____ _----__*----_---- __------~---------- __------*----------X = 7X = Z~ X = 33 X = 46 n= 2 F=43n= 2 F=3BI n = 2 F=l,B57 n = 2F=2,071 n= 3 F=2Sn= 3 F=7,221n=3 F=33,793 n= 3F=93,151 n = 4 F=1,513nc 4 F=137,i81 n = 4 F=l,BBI,345 n= 4 F=4,191,751 _____".___---- ----------~---------- ----------*---------- ----------~
X = ~: X = Z 1 X = 34 X= 47 n= 2 F=57n= 2 F=421 n= 2 F=1,123 n= 2 F=2.163 n = 3 F=393n = 3 F=8,431n = 3 F=37,1327 n = 3 F=99,453 n=4 F=2,745n = 4 F=168,Bal n = 4 F=1,221,859 n = 4 F=1,574,793 __ _.__ ,~,~ _ _ _ __ _____ .,; ___ __ _ ___ _ ", ___ _,_ ___ _ ~1, __ _ __ X = ~iX = 22X = 35 X = q8 n = 2 F=r n = 2 F=463 n= 2 F=1,191 n~ 2 F=2,257 n= 3 F=577 n= 3 F=9,703 n= 3 F=4B,461 n=i F=196,B33 n = 4 F=4,689 n= 4 F=2B3,743 n= 4 F=1,375,641 n~ 4 F=4,983,5B5 _____,,~__________.~---------- _____*_____ _____~1~_____I
X = 1 ~3X = 23X = 3~ X = 4~1 1 n = 2 F=91n~ 2 F=5B7 n = 2 F=1,261 n= 2 F=2,353.
n= 3 F=811n= 3 F=11,133 n = 3 F--U,181 n = 3 F=112,897.
n = 4 F=7,291n= 4 F=244.985 n: 4 F=1,543,591 n= 4 F=5,419,Be9.
_____~_____ _____~_____ _____,~,_____ _____"~_____ X = 1 1 X = 2 1X = 37 X = 5~3 n = 2 F=lll n= 2 F=553 n= 2 F=1,333 n= 2 F=2,45i.
n = 3 F=1,101n = 3 F=12,697 n= 3 F=47,9S n= 3 F=12~,851.
n= 4 F=ll,B31n = 4 F=292,B99 n 4 F=1,726,273 n = 4 F=5,882,451.
_____*__________",_____ _____",_____ _____~____ X = 1 2 X = Z5X = 38 X = 51 n- 2 F=133n= 2 F=60l n= 2 F=1,487 n= 2 F=2,551.
n= 3 F=1,453n = 3 F=14,481 n ~ 3 F=52,a23 n = 3 F=127,581, n= 4 F=15,973n= 4 F=345,681 n=l F=1,924,815 n = 4 F=6,375,B~l.
_____*_____ _____*_____ -----".----- -----*-----1 X = 13 X = 26X = 3~ X = 52 n= 2 F=157n = 2 F=651 n = 2 F=1,463 n: 2 F=2,653 n= 3 F=1,8i3n = 3 F=16,251 n= 3 F=56,317 n = 3 F=135,2S3 n = 4 F=22,465n = 4 F=496,2SI n = 4 F=2,14B,BB9 n = 4 F=6,~97,8S
_____*_____ _____*_____ _____*_____ _____.~_____ X = 14 X = 27X = 4~ X = 53 n = 2 F=183 n = 2 F=7e3 n = 2 F=1,561 n = 2 F=2,757 n= 3 F=2,367n= 3 F=18,2S3 n = 3 F--60,841 n = 3 F=143,313 n = 4 F=3B,759n ~ 4 F=~74,5S n = 4 F=2,372,761 n = 4 F=7,452,225 _____"~__________~1~_____ _____*_ ___ _____*_____ X = 15 X = 28X = ~1 X = 54 n = 2 F=211 n = 2 F=757 n = 2 F=1,641 n = 2 F=2,863 n: 3 F=2,941n = 3 F=29,413 n: 3 F=65,6BI n 3 F=151,687 n 4 F=41,161n 4 F=551,125 n=4 F=2,624,0Bl n = 4 F=8,a39,359 _____*_____ _____*_____ _____",____,_ _____*___~_ X = 1 6 X = 2~X = 42 X = 55 n= 2 F=241n = 2 F=B13 n= 2 F=1,723 n = 2 F=2,971 n = 3 F=3,681n = 3 F=22,737 n = 3 F=79,6B3 n = 3 F=16a,381 n = 4 F=54,BBI n = 4 F=636,6a9 n = 4 F=2,894,683 n = 4 F=8,66a,521 It is therefore clear that this invention provides a novel keyboard input interface operable as a manual input device to a data processing system with various advantages including (1) more entries per key, (2) fewer communication channels per entry, (3) natural fit for a t~pist's hand, (4) single-finger single-stroke single-hand entry selection affording fast error free entry of alphanumeric information with typically twelve keys, (5) tactical feel for right finger positions at each entry, (6) full compatibility with computer, type-writing, telephone and communication link operations, (6) visible catalog of data and functions entered by the keys, (7) faster program entry with fewer strokes, (~) optimum size for pocket instruments and telephones, etc. The state of the art has been unexpectedly improved by a simplification that produces greater versat'ility and key power saving time and equipment. Therefore, those features of novelty believed descriptive of the spirit and nature of the invention are defined with particularity in the claims.

Claims (17)

The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:

1. A keyboard system characterized by a set of at least four keys of a geometric shape sharing adjacent sides and arranged in an array with at least two common junctions where three keys meet at a common intersection of only three keys in a position accessible to a single finger overlapping the three keys at said intersections to actuate all three keys concurrently with a single fingerstroke.

2. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 1 coupled as manual input means to operate a data processing system for input of data and instructions wherein the keyboard is coupled to select different modes of operation in response to a sequence of at least two successive keystrokes which uniquely define each available mode of operation.

3. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 2 wherein the sequence of successive keystrokes to define said different modes of operation consist of a fixed number X of keystrokes.

4. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 3 wherein said data processing system is a programmable computer system adapted to receive instructions by means of program steps defined by program words constituted by code words entered by said fixed number X of keystrokes.

5. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 7 wherein the keyboard is in a housing containing therealongside a chart with graphic indicia thereon designating a plurality of the entries available with different keystroke sequence selections.

6. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 1 provided with raised finger contact ridges disposed on adjacent keys to define fingerstroke positions for concurrent actuation of predetermined sets each having a plurality of keys with a single fingerstroke.

7. A keystroke system as defined in Claim 1 having at least nine keys arranged in an array of three vertical parallel adjacaent columns of at least three keys, wherein the keys in the centermost column are offset vertically from the keys in the outer two columns to form a plurality of said intersections and to conform the key locations to the natural offset position of the three middle fingers of the human hand.

8. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 7 including a set of three further keys each overlapping at least two keys and confronting three sides of the nine key array to form a twelve key keyboard providing a plurality of more than fifty unique combinations of keys with single fingerstrokes.

9. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 1 having four keys in a side-by-side array geometrically shaped to provide at least thirteen fingerstroke positions for actuating unique combinations of sets of one to three of the keys with a single fingerstroke.

10. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 1 having a keyboard surface structured to produce at least three different kinds of finger selection zones distinguishable by tactical feel to identify predetermined keystroke positions.

11. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 1 coupled to utility means by a multiplicity of communication channels coupling the keys to actuate the utility means as a function of unique combinations of said channels concurrently selectable by actuation of corresponding sets of keys with single fingerstrokes.

12. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 11 wherein the utility means comprises a telephone system, and twelve said keys are provided to enter numerical digits by single fingerstroke selection of individual ones of the twelve keys.

13. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 12 including means for alphabetic communication by entry of alphabetic characters with single fingerstroke combinations of two or three concurrently actuated keys.

14. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 12 including mode selection means for designating different operating modes in response to a sequence of at least two successive keystrokes of unique keyboard key set combinations selectable by said single fingerstrokes.

15. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 1 having at least eight keys providing enough unique key set selections from said single fingerstrokes for defining a set of alphanumeric characters connected to a printer.

16. A keyboard as defined in Claim 1 with visual indicia markings on the keyboard graphically identifying a set of markings numbering more than three times the number of keys identifying thereby different ones of the unique key combination selections actuated by single fingerstrokes.

17. A keyboard system as defined in Claim 1 coupled to a system operable in a selectable mixed hybrid mode from said keyboard with means establishing one mode in response to the concurrent actuations of said sets of combinations of keys with a single fingerstroke and another mode in response to the successive actuation of at least two single fingerstroke entries.