CA1294019C - Single-handed computer keyboard - Google Patents

Abstract

ABSTRACT OF THE INVENTION

A miniaturized single-hand keyboard for computers or electronic word processing systems comprising alphabetical, numerical, and programable keys. The keyboard is used in conjunction with a keypointer which presses any of the keys on the keyboard. The keypointer has a number of keys such as a shift key, control key and an alternate key, which are activated by pressure of the thumb or the index finger.

Description

SltaGLE-RAND COMPUTER E~EYBOARD

BACXGROUND OF THE INVEN~ION

1. Field of Invent~on Thls lnven'cion relates to a data enter~ng ~ystem for electron~c computers and word proce8sora, in particular through hand operation with a keypointer on a miniaturized typewriter -type ~eyboard. There are three major ~ields of use for thisinvent ion:
a. As an input console or any s~ationary computer : ~ ~ terminal or personal computer. The advantages of using :~ a one-handed miniature ~eyboard are its very limited space requirement and freedom of one hand for other chores.
: ., . A.~ a complete and useful keyboard for handicapped ~; people who can use only one hand.

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1 c~ Rs an input con~ole for compact, portable computers (pocket size or larger). The obvious advantaqe of the miniature keyboard in ~uch application i3 the very light weight and ease of operation in many situations, : 5 with access to all functions of a conventional ~ey~oard.

2. Descri~ti_n of the Prior Art The recent developments in computer hardware, in particular increased memory and storage capacity on very small chip~ or di~kq, have contrlbuted to an expanded usage of computers for a variety of dif~erent tasks. With all the advance~ in data storage and internal communication in computers, other than voice activated computers there have not been major ~ changes in communication between human and computer. The : ordinary typewrit~r-type keyboards that demand usage of both hands for speedy data entry are still the standard approach.
20 While well trained typists may be able to enter data through : the~e keyboards at a high rate, the average computer user has a low rate of data entry through manual key punching.
Additionally, one must occasionally engage both hands, at least 2S for use of the shift key on one side of the keyboard or the : other. Another noticeable disadvantage of prior art keyboards is their bulky structure which occupies a major portion of the working area on a desk, where one must ha~e other materials for reading or writing. The disadvantage of this system may be ~2~

1 visualized by con9idering situationg where one trie~ to read information or data from a drawing or a chart and simultaneou~ly enter such data into a computer. With the present bulky ~eyboards it is necessary to go back and forth between two desk areas, or even two different desk~, which makes the data entry proce~s slow and cumbes~ome. The need for ~ one-hand keyboard has been a motivation for the creation of ~everal patented device~ in this field. U.S. Patent No. 3,833,7S5, issued to ~0 Hilburn et al., describes a one-hand operated keyboard that employx different key com~inationg for communlcating with the computer. U.S. Patent No. 4,360,892, issued to C. Endfield, de cribes a portable word-processor that employs only a few ~eys through which one can enter combinations of dots that represent the shapes of different alpha-numerical characters. Another solution to this problem is suggested in U.S. Patent No.
4,555,133, issued to P. J. Stone. This solution is based on the use of a reduced num~er of keys with different color coding to simplify the key combination3 for entering different characters.
Most prior art products that recognize the two-handed prsblem of typewriter-type keyboards are based on the use of 2S combinations of different key strokes for entering various alpha-numerical data into the computer in a coded manner.
Nowhere in the prior art is there a suggestion to combine a complete miniaturized alpha-numerical keyboard with a keypointer 12g~

~hat embodies a number of the necessary control key~ to enable one-handed control of the lceyboard.

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12~ 9 SVMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention comprises a very compact ~ypewriter type keyboard that pro~ide.~ all necessary key function~ within an area of about two to ten square inches, all within the reach of a pen-like keypointer that is adapted to be used by one hand. The keypoint~ ls connected to the keyboard throuqh control wlre5, with the fu~ctions Qf the shift key and one or several additional control keys being built therein.
These keys are in the form of buttons positioned to make them operable by pressure of the thumb or other ingers, : ~he obiective of this invention iB to eliminate the need for engaqing fingers of both hands in the process of data S entry through keyboards, while providing a compact ~ey~oard having keys too small to be finger-operated.
Another object is to provide a complete and expanded ;: set of keys that individually cover all characters of the a}phabet, number di~its, typing symbols, and programmable function key~, all withln reach of the tip of a ~eypointer that ~' can be manipulated by the fingers of one hand.
A further object of this in~ention is to provide a S eomplete keyboard that requires only a small desk area, a~out ten s~uare inches.

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3 2~ 9 - 5a -In a data entry system having a keyboard provided with a plurality of keys to be depressed by an operator, such keyboard ~eing electronically connected to a data processing device readout or data storage device, there is provided according to the invention the improvement comprising: (a) providing the keyboard in a reduced size, ; the size being such that the fingers of an aperator are too large to adequately distinguish between individual keys of lo the keyboard; (b) a pen-like keypointer adapted to be held - in the hand of an operator in order to depress individual ~ keys of the keyboard; ~c) the keypointer electrically ; connected to either of the keyboard or the data processing device, and being provided with a plurality of keys which when depressed by the operator's fingers, provide alternate functions for the keyboard keys when depressed. When the keypointer depresses keys of the keyboard, the readout or data storage device records or displays the appropriate signal from the keyboard. When the keypointer keys are depressed as the keyboard keys are depressed, an alternate signal is sent to the readout or data storage device from the keyboard.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, each key on the keyboard is surrounded on all sides by support walls which upwardly extend above the key sur~ace to provide a restraining barrier to prevent unintentional slippage of the keypointer to an adjacent key.
In a further preferred embodiment, the keypointer ~4~
- 5b -is provided with a shift key, and the keyboard is provided with a shift lock key, such that when the keypointer shift key and keyboard shift lock key are depressed, alternate functions are provided for all of the keyboard keys for extended data entry.
In a further preferred embodiment, the keypointer keys are provided with a double spring apparatus such that positive resistance to deplacement, after a preset amount of displacement, changes to a negative resistance to ~ displacement, such that the positive resistance to : displacement prevents inadvertent depression o~ the keypointer keys.

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` ~2~19 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
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Figure 1 is a plan view of a suggested keyboard layout:
: 5 Figur~ 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the ~; mechanism ~f tw~ key~, ta~en along line 2-2 of Fiqure 1:
Figure 3 is the keypointer of the present invention : Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the keypointer taken along line 4-4 of Figure 3 Figure S i~ an alternative embodiment of the keypointer shown in Figure 47 Fiqure 6 is a partial longitudinal sectional view of the present invention taken along line 6-6 of Figure 3.

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Figure 1 is a top view of the inventive reduced size keyboard, generally indicated at 5 according to the present invention. It includes all typical typewriter keys, five S function keys, 6 Fl through F5, and several other familiar keys, including a toggling shift-lock key 11. The arrangements of keys on this board is for the most part similar to that of a conventional typewriter keyboard. However, the shift key is absent and the key size is much smaller, measuring about one-fourth inch square. The keys are placed close to one another, within a matrix of support walls 12 that keeps them separated from each other. As shown in Figure 2, the walls 12 not only surround the periphery of the keys but also provide a restraininy barrier 44 which extends above the key top to prevent unintentional slippage of the keypointer from the intended key to an adjacent key. The actual dimension of this keyboard can preferably be approximately 5 cm x 12 cm, but the keyboard can be larger or smaller, the primary limitations being either the number of the keys or visual perception of distinct keys and space constraints in the workplace. In normal finger operation, ~ typewriter-style, the keys of this keyboard would be much too ;~ small to be individually operable, hence the need for the ;~ keypointer of the present invention.
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~ 25 l The important functions o~ the shift key, or control key, and possibly other keys, are built into the keypointer, generally indicated at 40 of Figure 3. Most or all of the keys shown in Figure 1 can be provided with at least two functions, one activated by simple depression of the ~ey and other funotion or functions being activated by depression of the key while the shift Xey 21, or another of the keypointer keys, on the side of the keypointer 40 is depressed at the same time. For instance, the letter keys will produce lower case letters by simple depression and upper case letters when depressed either following or while depressing the shift key 21.
The size, pattern, and arrangement of the key functions shown in Figure 1 are merely exemplary of many possible embodiments of the present invention. The actual size, number, and arrangement of the keys may be made in any manner desired to suit the particular purpose.
Figure 2 shows an enlarged cross-section of two adjacent keys, 10 and 11, with the thin dividing walls 12, between and around them.
The keytops 41 and 42 are made of any suitable material, such as plastic, and each has affixed to the lower side thereof a metallic contact point 13. The ~eytops are held in place by the thin walls 12 surrounding them above and on the sides, and a collar of some elastic material 15 underneath. The elastic collar 15 may be made of compressed rubber or it can ' ' .

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l comprise individual springs. Each of the contact points 13 has a flexible electric wire 16 attached to it, and is positioned above a corresponding fixed metallic contact point 17. The air gap 18 between the two contact points is relatively narrow, possibly only a few hundredths of an inch, and can be easily closed by a slight pressure or impact on the keytop. The short length of travel of the keys of this invention presents no problem of tactile feedback to indicate successful operation ~y the operator, as the contact between the keypointer tip and key provides sufficient feedbac~. The circuit is normally open due to the elastic pressure of the collars 15. Each fixed contact point 17 has a separate wire 19 attached to it and, when the gap under a key is closed, an electric circuit is established and the appropriate character is transmitted from the keyboard to the computer or word processor (not shown). Each circuit of this kind relates to one specific character or code in the computer.
It is to be understood that the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, and described a~ove, is only a representative example of one possible embodiment of the present invention. The intended result of depressing of the keys, i.e., to effect data processing, such as in a computer, word processor or electronic typewriter, resulting either in a readout or in printing for data storage, may be accomplished by a variety of other well-known electro-mechanical or electronic arrangements. The present invention resides in the inclusion of the functions of the shift, ~ 9 ~2~

1 control, and other keys in a keypointer pen that is described below.
Figure 3 illustrates the pen-like keypointer 40 that is similar to an ordinary pencil in size. The keypointer as described herein is preferably electrically connected to the keyboard and provided with control keys. However, the keyboard as described above can be operated with a keypointer whose sole function is to operate the keys of the keyboard. There can be any number of keys built into the keypointer. As represented in Figure 3 and hereinafter, there are three keys built into the keypointer; it is understood that any practicable number of keys can be included therein. As illustrated, the three keys comprise ; the shift key 21, the control key 22, and an alternative key 23.
A short flared-out segment 24 of the keypointer is provided with an enlarged diameter in order to provide a steady support for the ~ 15 fingers holding the keypointer.
-` The shift key 21 can be positioned lower than the other keys, immediately above the finger rest 24, in order to have it constantly covered by the thumb, which will rest on segmsnt 24 ; when the keypointer is held in the hand for typing. The control key 23 is positioned closely above the shift key such that it is normally free of contact with the thumb but can be reached easily ; by the thumb, whenever needed. The index finger and middle ~inger will likewise rest on segment 24. The alternative key 23 is , ~5 ~29~

1 placed slightly above the position of the index finger such that it can be easily reached and operated by that finger.
As shown in Figure 4, the keypointer can be provided with a round cross-sectional barrel portion 20, with the keys being diametrically opposed on the sides of its circular periphery. Alternatively, the keypointer can be provided with a triangular cross-sectional barrel portion, as at 20a in Figure 5, with the keys on neigh~oring sides. This may be more comfortable to hold and the two sets of keys would be somewhat easier to operate. However, such an arrangement must be made individually for right-handed or left-handed users, while the symmetrical arrangement shown in Figure 4 can be used in either hand.
The basic function of any of the three keys, 21, 22, and 23, is to close a circuit and establish an electric contact when depressed, and break the circuit when released. However, the shift key 21 in particular, must withstand normal holding pressure of the thumb up to a certain point before allowing its ~ intended contact to take place. This is required because of its ; position on the keypointer and the likelihood of accidental contact by the thumb.
In order to provide this capability the shift key may incorporate a double spring action. One spring constantly pushes the keytop out, while another spring provides positive resistance against displacement of the keytop, up to a certain point. After 1 this point is reached, the positive resistance changes to negative resistance beyond that point. Figure 6 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of an exemplary shift key in which this principle is incorporated. The key 21 is firmly attached to a metallic spring strip that comprises two segments, 27 and 28.
Segment 27, is fixed at one end 29 in the barrel of the keypointer 20, provides the positive resistance that pushes the key 21 constantly outward. This keeps the electric contact points 30, and 31 in an open position. The spring segment 28 can be provided with a pivoting end that rests in a furrow 32 in the body of the keypointer. The distance between the points 29 and 32 is fixed and the spring segments 27 and 28, are arched between them. When the key 21 is pressed inward, the spring segment 28 becomes loaded and it develops an increasing resistance against further displacement. This compliments the action of segment 27.
But, when the key is forced approximately 75% of the way inward, the compressing tension in segment 23 reaches its maximum, and further movement of the key inward will be assisted by decompression of this segment.
The double spring action noted above provides a good controlling mechanism for operation of any of the keypointer keys and, at the same time, provides a feedback mechanism for feeling exactly when contact is made. After a contact between the metallic points 30 and 31 is established, the pressure of a finger on the key can be relaxed, allowing for the overriding , 1294Gl99 1 action of spring segments 27 to push the key back to its normal open position.
As shown in Figure 6, the spring segment 28 is in direct contact with electric wire 33 at point 34. contact point 31 is electrically attached to wire 35, such that when the circuit is closed, the predetermined function o~ the key (such as a shift key) is activated and the key functions on the keyboard changed accordingly.
The mechanism described above the shift key can be employed in the functions of the control key 22 and the lo alternative key 23. However, the springs used in these keys can ~ be less stiff, thereby providing electric contact with only a ; light touch of a finger.
The wires leading to the keys 21, 22, and 23 are drawn out through the upper end of the keypointer, as shown in Figure 3, and connected flexibly either to the keyboard or to the computer. An optional circuit may be provided for each of the keypointer keys for activating an audio or visual signal that indicates the particular key function is activated. For example, closure of the shift key circuit on the keypointer can be adapted to energize a second circuit which activates a light emitting diode (LED) 43, positioned above the keyboard. When the keypointer shift key is released, the LED 43 is extinguished.
LED's of different colors may be used for different keys.

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1 The switch mechanism described above for the shift key is only one example of one possible embodiment of the present invention. For instance the switching mechanism for the shift key, control key, and the alternative key on the keypointer may be of the capacitance inductive type, which does not re~uire direct metallic contact. However, the positioning and the movement control of the keys, in particular ~h~ insensitivity of the shift key to finger pressure below a certain level, can be important for proper functioning of the present invention The pointing tip 36 of the keypointer is at any convenient distance from the segment 24, such is about 1.5" to 2.0", and is specially made of hard rubber.
In operation, the user places the miniaturized Xeyboard 5 in a convenient location and grasps the keypointer 40 in one hand. Rather than typing with the fingers, the tip 36 of the keypointer is used to depress the keyboard keys, and when an alternate key function is desired; the appropriate predetermined keypointer key (21, 22 or 23) is depressed either prior to or while depressing the keyboard key. Each of the keypointer keys can be provided with a complimentary "lock" key on the keyboard, such that the appropriate alternate key function may be locked in for extended typing without the necessity of having the particular keypointer key depressed. In this manner, one can type single handedly on a miniaturized keyboard occupying much less space than would a conventional keyboard.

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1 It is to be understood that any of the keypointer keys may be provided in any alternative configuration offering sufficient tactile feedback indicating intended contact has be,en made.

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Claims (7)

1. In a data entry system having a keyboard provided with a plurality of keys to be depressed by an operator, such keyboard being electronically connected to a data processing device readout or data storage device, the improvement comprising:
a. providing the keyboard in a reduced size, the size being such that the fingers of an operator are too large to adequately distinguish between individual keys of said keyboard;
b. a pen-like keypointer adapted to be held in the hand of an operator in order to depress individual keys of said keyboard;
c. said keypointer electrically connected to either of said keyboard or said data processing device, and being provided with a plurality of keys which when depressed by the operator's fingers, provide alternate functions for said keyboard keys when depressed, such that when the keypointer depresses keys of said keyboard, the readout or data storage device records or displays the appropriate signal from said keyboard, and when the keypointer keys are depressed as the keyboard keys are depressed, an alternate signal is sent to the readout or data storage device from said keyboard.

2. The device as recited in Claim 1, wherein said keyboard surface dimensions are about 1.5" x 5.5".

3. The device as recited in Claim 1, wherein each key on said keyboard is surrounded on all sides by support walls said support walls extending upwardly above the key surface to provide a restraining barrier to prevent unintentional slippage of the keypointer to an adjacent key.

4. The device as recited in Claim 1, wherein said keypointer is provided with a shift key and said keyboard is provided with a shift lock key, such that when the keypointer shift key and keyboard shift lock key are depressed, alternate functions are provided for all of said keyboard keys for extended data entry.

5. The device as recited in Claim 4, wherein said keypointer is provided with additional finger-operable keys, such as a control key and an alternative key.

6. The device as recited in Claim 1, wherein said keypointer keys are provided with a double spring apparatus such that positive resistance to deplacement, after a preset amount of displacement, changes to a negative resistance to displacement, such that said positive resistance to displacement prevents inadvertent depression of said keypointer keys.

7. The device as recited in Claim 1, wherein said keyboard is provided with one or both of an audio or visual signal which is activated upon said keypointer key activation.