DE2226607A1 - keyboard - Google Patents

Description

keyboard

The invention relates generally to a keyboard and, more particularly, to one having pushbuttons Keyboard with which electrical connections can be made when actuated.

In recent years, there are many to be used for transmitting coded electrical information Keyboard types for installation in various types of office machines, such as electronic calculators, developed been. Typical keyboards use pushbuttons that are provided with such symbols are to display a numerical or mathematical function that will act as an answer to a depression the push button for making electrical connections between different line paths and / or different Circuit elements that are connected to the keyboard to achieve the desired function, erJblg! I.Das , however, the cost of the associated equipment with an increase in the use and availability of various A need for has greatly degraded facilities incorporating such keyboards Extremely cheap, easy-to-manufacture keyboards have emerged that have a high degree of accurate repeatability

Schw / Ba

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can be mass-produced economically and accurately. For example, the Demand for miniaturized electronic computers, devices for addressing computer systems, Credit card validators etc. Which are necessarily different Types of keyboards have increased tremendously in recent years, making them cheap and extremely durable Keyboards had to be created which were produced in a relatively large scale, simply and economically can be. In the computer field in particular, there has been a need for durable, inexpensive ones Keyboards, with which a system directly or via a remote end device with electrical information can be precisely addressed with minimal space requirements, is becoming more and more urgent.

Accordingly, a keyboard is to be created with the help of the invention, which for the optional manufacture electrical connections in response to mechanical actuation is suitable.

Furthermore, a keyboard equipped with pushbuttons is to be created in which the actuation of individual pushbuttons Establishes positive electrical connections for the transmission of electrical information.

Furthermore, according to the invention, a keyboard equipped with pushbuttons is to be created which miniaturizes and is relatively robust and durable, which can be mass-produced extremely economically, and which are built into various devices such as electronic calculators, computer systems, etc. can.

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Embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawing shown. Show in it:

Fig.1 is an exploded perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a keyboard according to the invention,

FIG. 2 shows a vertical section through the keyboard shown in FIG.

Fig.3 is a plan view of the underside of the shown in Fig.2 Keyboard,

Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of another Embodiment of a keyboard similar to that shown in Fig.1 Keyboard resembles,

FIG. 5 shows a vertical section through the one shown in FIG Keyboard,

FIG. 6 is a plan view of the underside of the one shown in FIG Keyboard and

7 is a perspective view of a typical embodiment an electronic computer with such a keyboard, as shown in the above embodiments.

In Figures 1 to 3, a keyboard 10 designed according to the invention is shown. The keyboard contains generally a non-conductive support 12 having a generally flat first surface 14 on which several conductor tracks. 16 installed and in a selected pattern Transmission of electrical information with the selected connection of sections of the conductor tracks " are arranged. On a second, opposite one

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A plurality of groups of conductive support members 20 are attached to the surface 18 of the insulating support 12, in a preselected arrangement electrically in communication with first selected sections 16a, of the conductor tracks 16 are. Conductive contact members 22 are assigned to each of the conductive support members, which is also on the second surface 18 of the insulating support from the conductive interrogator η electrically are arranged insulated and electrically connected to second preselected sections 16b of the conductor tracks 16 in Connected. A plurality of selectively operable conductive actuators 24 are also * attached to the second And they are attached to each of the groups of conductive support members 20 carried and continuously in electrical contact with them and optionally with the associated ones conductive contact members 22 held separable. The actuators 24 can be deflected into one position in which they are connected to the conductive contact members in response to the application of a preselected deflection force to them, so as to be engaged between a of the groups of conductive support members and their associated conductive contact member 22 form an electrical contact bridge is formed, through which the first and second preselected sections 16a, 16b of the conductor tracks 16 electrically be connected to each other. Actuation of the conductive actuator lavender 24 to effect the above electrical contact bridge can be done in different ways, but it is done in the illustrated embodiment with the aid of several manually operated pushbuttons 26, which are held in a housing 28, which is supported adjacent to the second surface 18 of the insulating substrate so that the application of a preselected Deflection force on the attachment members 24 by actuating a preselected pushbutton 26 while exerting a mechanical force on the pushbutton,

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for example by means of the outer fingertips of an operator, is effected. As a result of a manual actuation of a preselected pushbutton 26, the preselected deflection force on the actuator exercised so that its deflection is effected in a position in which it is with the conductive contact member 24 is engaged, whereby the electrical contact bridge between the group of conductive support members 20 and the conductive contact member 22 and thus an electrical connection between the first and second preselected sections 16a or 16b of the conductor tracks 16 is produced. If desired, a facility may also be provided for example, one shown in dashed outlines integrated circuit, held by the insulating support 12 and with selected sections of the conductor tracks * -16 can be connected so that the signals are processed are made by connecting different sections of the conductor tracks according to the manufacture of the electrical Contact bridge η are generated. In the same way can on Request a (not shown) power supply on the carrier 12 can be accommodated so that a self-contained composite unity arises; But it can also be an external energy source alone or as an additional or Alternative energy source can be used.

The insulating support 12 is made of a relatively rigid, Non-conductive material made that is suitable for the support for the keyboard and also for the associated electronic circuit to form the power supplies, display devices, etc., if the structural unit ^ n a electronic calculator, to be inserted into a computer input system, etc. In this regard, the wearer can consist of a relatively rigid insulating material such as glass fabric glued with epoxy resin, which is supported by the Formica Company sold under the trade name G1O

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will. The material can be about 1.6 mm (1/16 inch), which are generally found to be sufficient to produce adequate mechanical strength for a miniaturized device of this type. As mentioned above, the Conductor traces 16 including the first and second preselected portions 16a and 16b, respectively, on the first surface 14 (the underside of the carrier 12 in the illustration of Figure 2) arranged in a desired pattern so that the Transmission of electrical information in response to the fine selective connection of different sections the conductor tracks when producing the electrical contact bridges is made possible. The pattern of the conductor tracks can using conventional printed circuit manufacturing techniques such as masking, etching, engraving, etc. be applied to the surface 14 of the carrier. In addition, a plurality of openings 32 are provided, which extend through the Thickness of the carrier 12 extend between the first surface 14 and the second surface 18, thus optionally electrical Connections between the conductor tracks. on the surface and the conductive ^ support members 20 and the contact members 22 can be made on the opposite surface 18. The openings can be before or after the application of the conductor tracks are attached, creating a pre-punched carrier that is used for further manufacturing steps is prepared.

In the illustrated embodiment, the groups are the Support members 20 are arranged to have a plurality of them at a distance groups of two generally U-shaped, lying one from the other conductive members, which preferably consist of staples, which are arranged on the surface 18 of the carrier 12 are. Such an arrangement has proven to be extremely advantageous In achieving a great deal of relief in the manufacture of the keyboard turned out to be simple as the cramps through the openings 32 in pre-punched carrier 12 below Using high speed working

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automated stapling machines can be used. In the same way, the electrical connection between these clamps and selected sections of the conductor tracks 16 can be produced. As can be seen from the illustration, each staple 20 consists of a main body 34 with generally sole ifenförraiger design, divided into two Legs 36 which are received by openings 32 in carrier 12 ends. The openings 32 are sufficiently large so that they can receive the legs 36 snugly while the outer ends of the legs are against the surface 14 are bent and with the selected sections of the conductor tracks 16, for example the first selected Sections 16a, are in contact. Pole result is a rigid mechanical connection, and the electrical one Contact can be improved by soldering the bent-over portions of the legs in place. As can be seen from the illustration, the main body 34 stands for each of the plurality of groups of support members belonging staples at a first distance above the outer surface 18 of the carrier 12, so that conductive support areas be formed at a distance from the surface 18 for supporting the actuators 24. In the same way are that associated conductive contact members 22 are generally U-shaped as shown, and they consist of staples, each of which has a main body 38 which ends in two legs 40. The legs 40 protrude through the carrier 12 in the same way as the openings 32 through openings 42, but create connections to other portions of the conduction paths 16, for example with the second selected sections 1.6b. The legs 40 extending through the openings 42 are on their The outer ends are bent over against the surface 14 of the carrier 12 so that they are preferably in contact with other portions of the Conductor tracks 16, for example the second preselected

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Sections 16b. The openings 42 are sufficiently large that they receive the legs 40 of the contact member 22 can, while the outer ends of the legs 40 ge.gen against the surface 14 are bent and in contact with the second Preselected section 16b of the conductor tracks are available, so that the staple is rigidly attached to the carrier 12. Besides can move against the second preselected sections 16b of the conductor tracks η 16 bent outer ends of the legs 40 be soldered in this position so that a better electrical contact is made as shown. One of the contact members 22 in the form of a staple is in each case between two support members 20 arranged, and it can be sized a little smaller be, so that his main body 38 is at a second preselected distance above the surface 18, which extends from the first selected distance differs in which the main body 34 of the support members 20 stands above the surface to facilitate the selected separation between the B & actuation members η 24 and the contact members 22 as explained below. The support members 20 and the contact members can be of the most varied Materials and material composition dependent can be made of the desired properties. For example In a preferred embodiment, the staples are made of gold-plated nickel wire, so that a relative non-reactive material with good surface contact properties " is available. In other embodiments, the staples can be made of gold-plated stainless steel with one between the stainless steel core and the gold coating applied thin layer of nickel or berryllium copper. ·

The actuators 24 preferably consist of generally circular, disc-shaped elements that consist of a segment a hollow body with a double curved outer surface,

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for example a segment of an oblique spheroid body are formed; they are each represented in such a way that "they have a generally convex surface of curvature in the non-actuated rest state, which towards the pushbuttons 26 is directed. The actuator 24 is chosen so that it is a position beyond the central position assumes when a preselected deflection force acts on its central section, while it is after removal of the force automatically returns to its original position, whereby the actuator with a pe icherfunkt ion Is provided. To form the actuators can Also segments from other hollow bodies with double curved surfaces can be used. The actuator can be arranged so that it can be used to produce the aforementioned electrical contact bridge under Uraschnappen in its position beyond the center position is deflected. In this context, Fig. one of the actuators 24a in its snapped-over position in response to actuation by depression the push button 26a. It should be noted, however, that the central region of the actuating member 24 in certain applications is at a sufficiently small distance from the contact member may lie, so that the actuator 24 is not completely must be deflected to beyond its center position to the contact member 22 to produce the required Contact bridge aiberübre after exercising a complete failure Deflection force on the central portion of the actuator 24 corresponding to the depression of the push button 26 the actuation member 26 is caused in this way, under Uraschnappen a fraud up to its middle position hiiaus to carry out. Moreover, as a result This snap deflection has a noticeable reaction achieved that can be felt with the fingertips of a certain push button actuating operator. In addition, the snap deflection can be accompanied by an audible confirmation that serves as an additional display

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the actuation of a push button for transmitting a desired electrical signal can also be determined by the operator. The actuating elements 24 are preferably made of gold-plated stainless steel disks. In a preferred embodiment, they can be made of the stainless steel type 302 of the AISI (American Iron and Steel Institute), which in parts by weight consists of about $ 0.15 carbon, $ 2.00 (max.) Manganese, $ 1.00 (max.) silicon, $ 17 to $ 19 chromium, $ 8 to $ 10 nickel, the remainder iron, with a thin layer of gold applied to its exposed contact surfaces.

Each of the actuators 24 is with the contact member 22 associated with each of the groups of support members 2 0 is, so held, about its middle section at a distance from the contact member 22 lies. The edges of the actuators 24 are on the main bodies 34 of the support members 20 of each group held in such a way that the actuator 24 constantly with the main bodies and therefore with the first preselected sections 16a of the derüeiterbahnen is in electrical contact. In the same way, the central portions of the actuators 24 remain on the main bodies 38 of the contact members 22 are aligned are divided into selected separation from the contact, until they are deflected by actuation of a push button 26 so that between a group of conductive Support members 20 and the associated contact member 22 and thus between the first and second preselected Sections 16a, 16b of the conductor tracks 16 an electrical Contact bridge is made.

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To further support each actuation device, the 24 and to form a side bracket is on the surface. of the carrier 12 adjoining a holding plate 44 made of insulating material attached, comprising the groups of conductive support members 20 and associated conductive contact members 22 covered. The retainer plate 44 includes a plurality of openings 46 that are large enough to allow the actuator 24 therein can be accommodated, and members of the groups of support members 20 and associated contact 22 aligned are. In particular, the actuators are the mounted within openings 46 which are slightly larger than the spacing between the staples that each of the groups of kiting support members. Accordingly, the holding plate 44 can be held so that it is in substantially collides with the surface 18 of the carrier 12, the main bodies 34 of the support members 20, the the actuators 24 carry something into the openings protrude. The actuators mounted in the openings 46 24 have opposite edge areas which rest on the main bodies 34 of the support members. Thus becomes both a support and a lateral holder for the actuators 24 created. As can be seen in particular from FIG. 1, each of the openings 46 also has a preselected shape two opposing parallel walls 46a which are substantially rectilinear. This essentially straight wall sections are arranged so that they delimit the main body 43 of the support members projecting into the opening 46. The other two, each other opposing wall sections 46b of each opening 46 , have one generally from the center of the openings 46 outwardly curved course, so that a better adaptation to the generally circular actuators is achieved. The fact that de © openings 46 is given the shape shown, certain parts of the gate are achieved because the

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total area occupied by the openings to a Minimum is reduced because only one of the two dimensions of the openings is increased while the other dimension is minimized, whereby the for Formation of the holding plate 44 remaining total amount of material to increase its mechanical Strength ... and strength becomes maximum. TheB is in view the small dimensions of the holding plate 44 and the large number of openings used are particularly advantageous. The holding plate 44 can be made of a non-conductive material, such as a with Epoxy resin reinforced glass fabric. The over the groups of support members 20 on opposite sides of the carrier 12 also extending edge portions of the holding plate 44 are also preferably with the edge portions of the carrier 12 glued, so that the production of a sealed unit against the environment is facilitated.

In certain cases it has been shown to be desirable the actuators of the 24 in their respective positions additionally to be held by a relatively thin, flexible, insulating, force-transmitting cover film 48 is provided as shown, which is between the holding plate 44 and the housing 28 holding the pushbuttons 26 is arranged. The cover sheet 48 can be made of a material such as polyethylene terephthalate, usually under the trade name Mylar is sold; they can with the exposed Surface of the retaining plate 44 be glued, so that there is an accidental removal or falling out of the actuators 24 prevented from their desired positions in the openings 46 and the sealing of the structural unit with respect to of the environment.

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The push buttons 26 bind each to their outer free Areas labeled in such a way that the electronic puncture is indicated, the actuation of a selected one Push button is assigned, which is the required electrical contact bridge between the conductive Support members 20 and the conductive Kontaktgliederη 22 and thus between the first and second preselected Sections 16a, 16b of the conductor tracks 16 produces. In addition, each pushbutton contains an opposite one protruding surface portion 50 standing down from the main body of the push button and with the middle section of the actuating member 24 in butt contact is held so that he has the required deflecting force in response to the actuation of the pushbutton can exercise on the activity giled. Each of the Push buttons 26 is preferably made of a relatively rigid, non-conductive plastic material, and it is carried by the housing 28 which has a plurality of openings 41 for receiving the bodies of the pushbuttons 46 having. The housing 28 can likewise be made of a suitable rigid, non-conductive plastic material or the like. A flange portion 52 is formed on each pushbutton, which of two opposing lower edge surfaces protrudes. These flange sections 52 can be received by matching recesses 54 in the housing '28, if the push buttons 26 are housed in the housing 28 to allow lateral movement of the push buttons 26 within of the housing prevents movements of the pushbuttons running perpendicular to the flat surface of the housing 28 however, are permitted in their activity. The housing also includes two downwardly directed flanges 56, which are at such a distance from one another that the edge regions 12a, 12b of the carrier 12 are received

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can, if desired, provide a seal against the Environment between these edge portions 12a, 12b and the inner surfaces of the flanges 56, if the Housing 28 against the cover film 48 butting attached is and the pushbuttons on the corresponding actuators 24 are aligned. In the operating state, the pushbuttons cannot move sideways in the housing but they can only respond in response to the exertion of a mechanical force on their exposed pool move from a retracted position to an actuated position, so that the deflection of an associated Actuator 24 is effected. Accordingly, the actuator becomes 24 upon actuation of a selected push button causes a snap deflection to about their Exercise middle position in which they both with one of the associated contact members 22 and with the group of support members 20 is engaged and an electrical contact bridge between the contact member 22 and the associated group of support members 20 manufactures.

In Figures 4 to 6 there is another embodiment a keyboard is shown which is similar to the keyboard shown in Figures 1 to, but a modified one Includes arrangement for holding the actuators. In particular, in this embodiment, a carrier made of insulating material, which is identical to carrier 12, is provided, on which a preselected pattern of conductor tracks 62 is arranged on a first surface 64, while multiple groups of conductive support members 66 are provided on a second, opposing surface 68 of the Carrier are arranged, each group of conductive support members associated with a conductive contact member 70 iBt, which is spaced from the support members and is electrically isolated from them. The support members 66 can

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be mounted in associated openings 72 which are formed so that they extend through the entire thickness of the Carrier 60 extend between the first surface 64 and the second surface 68 for electrical connection therewith between each group of conductive support members 66 and first preselected portions 62a of conductive traces 62 can be produced when the support members are inserted into the openings 74. Several additional Openings 74, which extend in the same way through the entire thickness of the carrier 60 for receiving the associated contact members Extend 70, allow the establishment of an electrical connection between the contact members 70 and second preselected sections 62b of the conductor tracks 62 when the contact members 70 are in the corresponding openings are inserted. Each group of support members 66 may have a generally planar support surface for supporting one Beta ti supply elements 76 form the actuator equals. The actuator 76 is constantly in electrical mode Contact with the group of support members 66 and thus in contact with the first preselected sections 62a of the conductor tracker 62 held. Besides, that remains Actuator 76 in selected separation from the associated contact member 70, so. that each group of support members from the associated contact member 70 remains electrically isolated until the actuator 76 is deflected. Such a deflection takes place in the same way as has been indicated in connection with the above embodiment, after which in response to the exertion of a preselected deflecting force on the actuator 76, engagement between the actuating member 76 and the contact member 70 is made, whereby between the group of support members 6 6 and the contact member 70 and thus between the first and second preselected sections 62a, 62b of the conductor tracks 62 an electrical contact bridge is formed.

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The exertion of a preselected steering force on the Actuator 76 takes place again with the help of several Push buttons 78 which are held in alignment with the corresponding actuators 76 so that a Actuation by. Depression of a push button 78 causes the deflection of an actuating member, so that this is applied to the associated contact member and thereby produces the required electrical contact bridge. the Push buttons 78 are held in the same manner in a housing 80 which has a plurality of openings 82 for receiving the Body of push buttons 78 contains. The push buttons can be used in response to the exercise of a mechanical Force on their exposed surfaces, such as manual operation from a retracted position be moved into an actuating position.

As was already warmed up above, the keyboard described here is particularly suitable for the Manufactured using fast, accurate, and inexpensive mass production methods. The in FIGS. 4 to 6 shown embodiment has this advantage, since the carrier is in the same way in a pre-punched configuration with the Openings 72, 74 for receiving the support members and the contact members can be created while a desired conductive pattern using conventional methods of making printed matter Circuits can be applied to the area 64 to allow the selected electrical connections between corresponding sections of the conductor tracks can be produced. Instead of using Contains staples as in the above embodiment each group of support members 66 preferably has a plurality of flanged rivets, each of which is a shank

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and a flange-like collar 84. The shaft can be slid into opening 72 while the collar 84 rests on surface 68 of the wearer. A portion of the shaft extends beyond the surface of the wearer and the opposite end 86 of the shaft is against surface 64 of the wearer 60 is pressed into electrical contact with the first preselected portion 62a of the conductive path, thereby mechanically holding the rivet in position with respect to the carrier and the conductive path 62. Additionally, the pressed end 86 can be soldered in place to ensure good electrical contact with the first preselected portion 62a. In the illustrated embodiment, each group of support members 66 includes four of the rivets described above arranged to form a generally enclosed surface, with the collars 84 of each of the rivets providing a generally planar support surface for the actuating members 76. It should be noted that a smaller or larger number of rivets can of course also be used. In addition, the associated contact member 70 is arranged substantially in the middle of the surface formed by the four rivets 66, and it preferably consists of a headed rivet including a shank portion 88 _f which is mounted in the opening 74 and having an end 90 according to FIG is shown pressed against surface 64 of beam 60 with the opposite end terminating in a head 92 larger in diameter than opening 74 so that rivet 70 is held in place with respect to the beam as a result of its end 90 being pressed into the surface . The pressed end 90 is electrically in communication with the second preselected portion 62b, and it may likewise be soldered in place to ensure good electrical contact with the portion 62b. The head 82 of the rivet 70 may protrude beyond the surface 68 of the carrier 60 a smaller piece than the collar 84 of the carrier members 66,

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so that the central section of the actuator 76 of it can be kept selectively separate, as will be explained in more detail below.

The actuation of the 76 is essentially the same as that Actuators 24 discussed above in connection with the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 3 have been described. The actuator 76 is designed such that there is a deflection movement in the same way executes until beyond its middle position, so that the above-mentioned electrical contact bridge between the groups of support members 66 and the contact member and thus between the first and second preselected ones Sections 62a, 62b of the uterine tracts is produced. The edge areas of the actuating element 76 rest in a supported manner on the flange-like collars 84 of the support members 66, so that the actuator 76 is constantly in electrical Contact with the group of support members 66 is maintained while its central portion selectively from the head 72 of the Contact member 70 remains separated. When exercising a preselected Deflection force on the central portion of the actuator 76 in response to depression the selected pushbutton. 78, becomes the actuator causes a snap deflection beyond its central position perform addition, so that it touches the head 82 of the contact member 70 and thus a sudden positive electrical contact bridge between the Stützgl leathers 66 and the contact member 70 and thus between the first and second preselected portions 62a, 62b of the conductor tracks 62 produces. As in the embodiment described above, this arises Snap deflection a noticeable reaction that the can feel a particular pushbutton operator with his fingertips. In addition, the

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Snap deflection from an audible actuation of the Deflection be accompanied by the operator as an additional indication of the actuation of a push button can determine to transmit a desired electrical signal.

This also contributes to the actuation " to hold members 76 in place, and to facilitate the formation of a seal against the environment, it has proved to be advantageous in certain cases a coating layer 94 made of a flexible, force-transmitting Insert material between the pushbuttons 78 and the actuators 76. The lateral movement of the actuation glüeder 76 is made with the help of its attachment within which prevents each group of support members 66 on the flange-like collars 84, the edge being rich of the actuators 76 in the lateral direction from the ab-. cut of the shafts 82 are held that over the frets 84 stand out. This prevents the actuators 76 from being accidentally removed from the assembly removed or falling out, the cover 94 can be attached and used as shown Forming a seal against the environment with the edge sections of the carrier 60 are glued. The cover 94 can be made of a strong, flexible, thin insulating material, for example from the under the trade name Mylar sold polyethylene terephthalate.

As mentioned above, the push buttons 78 are held in the openings 82 in the housing 80; according to the illustration are their free outer surfaces corresponding to the electrical information generated in response to their Actuation is to be transmitted, provided with appropriate labels. It also stands out from the opposite Each pushbutton faces a substantially centrally located protruding part 96 which is coaxial to the central portions of each actuator

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is arranged so that the preselected deflection force when actuated by depressing the pushbuttons 78 is exerted on the actuator. In Fig.5 is a Push button 78 shown in its actuated depressed state to enable the establishment of the electrical Contact bridge * between the support members 66 and the contact member 70 and thus between selected sections of the conductor tracks 62 can be seen. Each of the As in the exemplary embodiment described above, push buttons 78 can contain two opposite flanges 97, which can be received in matching channels 98 in the wall of the openings 92 in the housing, so that a better side bracket for the pushbuttons is created. The housing 80 also preferably includes two downwardly projecting flange sections 99 which run along their longitudinal edges at a distance from one another, which is slightly larger than the lateral dimension of the carrier, so that the inner areas of the flange portions 99 with the edge areas of the pointer 60 are sealingly connected can, if desired, produce an environmentally sealed assembly. The housing 80 and the push buttons 79 can be made of an insulating plastic be made of material.

It can be seen that in the operating state, as in the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 3, the depression of a selected pushbutton causes a deflection of the associated actuator 76, so that an electrical contact bridge between the Support members 66 and the contact members 70 and thus between de.n first and second preselected sections 62a, 62b of the conductor tracks 62 is generated, so that a corresponding electrical signal is transmitted. In addition, semiconductor components or the like can be used according to FIG.

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which are shown in dashed lines as an integrated circuit rait dual-in-line housing are provided whose connecting conductors 102 protrude downward through corresponding openings 104 in the carrier 60 and are in contact ' with required sections of the conductor tracks 62 so that their various circuit elements (not shown) can optionally be connected to the conductor tracks 62 so that the selected after the connection of Sections of the conductor paths transmitted electrical information \ are worked out. Likewise, on request Power supply arrangements (not shown) are attached to the carrier 60.

Pig.7 shows a total unit 104 which contains a plurality of pushbuttons housed in a housing 108. The housing is attached via a carrier 110, the conductive support members, contact members, actuating members, May contain conductor tracks, etc., as specified in the embodiments described above have been. The assembly 104 also includes a Display window 112 for a visible display of the Operation of the assembly is generated when, for example, as an electronic computer, as an input device for a compute ranla ge etc. is used. The Assembly unit 104 can contain an imprint device on request, so that a permanent record can be created.

The keyboard described above with the particularly advantageous Contact bridge arrangement is particularly suitable for insertion in various systems such as electronic calculators, computer systems, etc.

Patent a ns test

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Claims (16)

Claims e Optionally operable keyboard, characterized by an electrically insulating support having a substantially flat first surface on which several conductor tracks are arranged in a preselected pattern, so that one electrical information is transmitted in response to a selected connection of parts of the conductive paths can, several spaced groups of conductive support members, which are on a second opposite Surface of the carrier are mounted in a preselected arrangement and with first preselected sections the conductor tracks are electrically connected, conductive contact members assigned to each group of the support members, those on the second surface of the carrier are each electrical are mounted isolated from the associated support members and with second preselected sections of the conductor tracks are electrically connected, and a plurality of 'selectively operable actuators, on the second Area that are held by each of the groups of support members and are constantly in electrical contact with them Make contact while moving from the conductive contact member are optionally separated, and thereby in an engaged position with the conductive contact member are deflectable so that between the first and second preselected sections of the conductor tracks in response an electrical connection to the exertion of a preselected deflection force on the actuator will be produced. 2. Keyboard according to claim 1, characterized in that to exercise the preselected deflection force on the Actuators means a device is provided which contains a plurality of pushbuttons which can be actuated by hand 209851/1090 and exerting the deflecting force on the actuators to cause them to deflect into an engaged position with the contact member that each Pushbutton has a force application surface which is aligned with an actuator, and that each pushbutton has a further area, .the can be labeled in such a way that a display of the electrical information is produced, which as Response to the establishment of electrical connection between the first and second preselected Sections of the conductor tracks is transferred. 3. Keyboard according to claim 1, characterized in that, each group of support members a plurality of spaced apart includes lying first metal members which are arranged such that they at least partially closed surface area on the second Form surface of the insulating support, and that the first metal members through the insulating support extend and end in electrical contact with the first preselected sections of the conductor tracks. 4. Keyboard according to claim 5, characterized in that the contact members consist of a second metal member, substantially in the middle within the partially closed surface area on the second surface of the insulating support is arranged, and that the second metal member extends through the insulating support and in electrical contact with the second selected Sections of the conductor tracks ends. 5. Keyboard according to claim 4, characterized in that the first metal members a first distance above the second surface of the support to form a generally 20985 1/1090 flat support for the actuator. 6. Keyboard according to claim 5, characterized in that the second metal members are preselected in a second Distance, which is smaller than the first preselected distance, over the second surface of the carrier 1 ie ge η, so that they stay at a distance from the actuator until this is deflected into engagement with them so that between the groups of support members and the associated ones Contact members the electrical contact bridge is made. 7. Keyboard according to claim 6, characterized in that the actuating elements are generally circular and have edge regions which are supported on the generally flat support formed by the first Ifctal! Members, that the actuating members have a portion lying generally in the middle, the is held in selected separation from the contact member, and to an engagement with this from steerable that each Aktgi ied has a convex surface with such a curvature that the preselected deflection force can be absorbed in alignment with an associated contact member, and that the convex surface can be deflected into a concave shape in which it engages the contact member in response to the exertion of the preselected steering force. 8. Keyboard according to A _n claim 7, characterized in that a relatively thin, flexible, insulating, force-transmitting coating is attached to the support over the actuators, which holds the actuator in the position supported by the first metal members. 20985 1/1/90 9. Keyboard according to claim 6, characterized in that the first metal members generally have the shape of a U have two cupboards which extend through openings in the support and are rigidly in place of the first surface of the carrier are bent over and in electrical contact with the first preselected sections of the conductor tracks are that between the legs there is an integrally connected body section carried by the second surface of the carrier and into a first one therefrom preselected distance protrudes outward, so that the second metal members each generally have the shape of a U with have two legs extending through openings in the support and in place on the first Surface of the insulating support are bent over and in electrical contact with the second preselected Sections of the conductor tracks are that between the legs, an integrally connected body section extends, and that the body portion is supported on the second surface of the carrier and in a second preselected distance from this protrudes outwards. 10. Keyboard according to claim 9, characterized in that the first metal members consist of two clamps which attached to your carrier that each group of conductive Support members includes two of the staples which are separated from each other at a preselected distance, thus one generally level support for the actuators is created, and that the second Metal! was part of another cramp which is attached to the carrier between the two staples. 11. Keyboard according to claim 10, characterized in that the actuators are generally circular and 209851/1090 have opposite edge sections, which are supported on the two staples, and that the Actuating part of the one generally located in the middle Have portion which is at a distance in optional separation from the further staple and in an engaged position with the further cramp in response to the exertion of the preselected steering force on the actuator can be deflected so that an electrical contact bridge is created between the two clamps and the other clamp, providing an electrical connection between the first and second preselected sections of the conductive paths generated. 12. Keyboard according to claim 6, characterized in that the first metal members contain a shaft, tbr extends through an opening in the carrier, and is provided at the end with an annular collar with a larger diameter than the opening, so that a complete penetration of the shaft is prevented by the opening that the collar abuts the second surface of the insulating support and forms a portion of the flat support for one of the actuating devices that the other end of the shaft is pressed against the first surface of the support, so that a Rigid attachment of the first metal member is achieved that the second metal members each include a shaft extending through an opening in the carrier, which at one end has a head with a larger diameter than the opening, so that a complete penetration of the shaft is prevented that the Head butts against the second surface of the carrier and that the other end of the S _{c is} stuck against d The first surface of the carrier is pressed to achieve rigid attachment of the second metal member. 209851/1090 13. Keyboard according to claim 12, characterized in that the first metal members are provided with frets There are rivets that are attached to the beam such that each group of support members has several collars contains provided rivets which are spaced from one another so that they smooth the actuation supporting the annular collar, and that the second metallic member consists of one with a head studded rivets, generally mid-way between the group of fretted rivets is appropriate. 14 · Keyboard according to claim 13, characterized in that each actuator is generally circular and with an edge portion is supported on the annular collars of the rivets that a central portion of the actuator spaced from the headed rivet in a preselected disengaged position and in response upon exertion of the preselected deflection force on the actuator into engagement with the rivet ■ is deflectable so that between the group of rivets provided with a collar and those provided with the head Rivet creates an electrical contact bridge that creates an electrical connection between the first and second Preselected sections of the conductor tracks generated. 15. Optionally operable keyboard, characterized in that that an electrically insulating carrier is provided which has a first surface on which a plurality of conductor tracks are arranged in a preselected pattern so that they are responsive to a selected connection of conductor track sections an electrical information transmitted that on a second, opposite surface of the carrier several spaced-apart groups of conductive elements ? Π 98 51/1090 Staples are mounted in a preselected arrangement defining a plurality of generally planar support areas that calibrate the ends of each staple through openings in the. Beams extend and end in electrical contact with the first preselected sections of the conductor tracks stand that. several associated senior cramps on the second surface are provided, one of which between the staples in each group, electrically of this is arranged insulated that the ends of each associated staple protruding through openings in the carrier and are in electrical contact at the end with second preselected sections of the conductor tracks that several selectively actuable, generally circular, conductive discs are mounted on the planar support surface, the in response to the exertion of a preselected deflection force on them, the edge sections can perform a bending movement of the disks are supported by the groups of conductive staples and essentially in one with them static electrical contact are that middle sections of the discs from the associated conductive Staples are selected so that the central portions of the conductive discs are in engagement with the associated conductive staples are deflectable so that between a group of conductive staples and their associated contact members an electrical contact bridge is created, the "the first and second preselected Sections of the conductive traces in response to the application of a preselected deflection force on the conductive disc electrically connects that on the second surface of the carrier a coating of insulating ob te rial attached "is of the several, the groups of senior Kran pen and the associated staples contains exposed openings which receive the conductive discs in such a way that ? Π 9 R 5 1/1 P 9 0 that these are held against lateral movement and yet can perform a deflection, that an arrangement to exert a preselected deflection force on the conductive discs is provided which contains several pushbuttons which can be operated by hand so that on the conductive discs to perform a deflection its central portions in a position of engagement with the assigned conductive ramp the preselected deflection force is exerted that each pushbutton has a force application surface aligned in a registration position on a conductive disc and that each pushbutton has an exposed "area which can be written on in such a way that that it displays the electrical information that is generated in response to the establishment of the electrical connection is transferred between the first and second sections of the conductor tracks. 16. Keyboard for use in an electronic calculator for entering electrical information in response to its actuation, characterized in that a electrically insulating carrier is provided which has a first surface on which a plurality of conductor tracks in arranged in a preselected pattern so that they receive electrical information in response to their excitation transferred that to a second, opposite one Surface of the support several spaced groups of support members in a preselected arrangement which form a plurality of generally planar support areas spaced from the second surface and are in electrical contact with first preselected sections of the conductor tracks that several of the several support .-. members associated contact members are provided, one of which is within each of the groups of 209R51 / 1090 Support members formed area is arranged and
with second preselected sections of the conductor tracks is in electrical contact that several optional
actuatable, generally circular, conductive discs are mounted on the planar support surface, that edge portions of the discs are supported by the groups of support members and are in substantially static electrical contact therewith, that central portions of the discs are selectively separated from the associated contact members, that the central portions of the conductive discs are deflectable into engagement with the associated contact members in response to the exertion of a preselected deflecting force thereon so that
an electrical contact bridge is formed between a group of support members and their associated contact members, which electrically connects the first and second preselected sections of the conductor tracks to one another, that on the second surface of the carrier a device other than bending movements of the conductive disks is attached, that an arrangement for exerting a preselected deflection force on the conductive discs is provided which includes a plurality of pushbuttons which can be actuated so that on the conductive discs
Disks for carrying out a deflection of their central portions into an engagement position with the associated contact member, the preselected deflection force is exerted, that each pushbutton has a force exertion surface adjacent to the conductive disk and that each pushbutton has an exposed surface which can be written on in such a way that it displays the electrical information which is transmitted by making the electrical connection between the first and second sections of the conductor tracks. 209851/1090 17 · Keyboard for use in an electronic calculator for entering electrical information in response to its actuation, characterized in that a electrically insulating carrier is provided which has the first surface on which a plurality of conductor tracks in arranged in a preselected pattern so that they receive electrical information in response to their excitation transferred that to a second, opposite one Area of the support several spaced apart groups of support members in a preselected arrangement are attached, which form a plurality of generally flat, spaced from the second surface support areas and in electrical contact with first selected sections of the conductor tracks are that several contact members associated with the several support members are provided from each of which is arranged one within each area formed by the groups of support members and with second preselected sections of the conductor tracks is in electrical contact so that several selectively actuatable, generally circular, conductive discs are mounted on the flat support surface that edge portions of the disks are supported by the groups of support members and are essentially at rest with them electrical contact are that middle sections of the discs selected by the associated contact members are separated so that the central portions of the conductive discs are in engagement with the associated Contact members as a response to the exercise of a preselected Auslenkkraft are deflectable on them, so that between a group of support members and their associated Contact links create an electrical contact bridge, 7,9851 / 1090 which electrically interconnects the first and second preselected sections of the conductive paths that on of the second surface of the support preventing any movement other than bending of the conductive discs Means is attached that an arrangement for exerting a preselected deflection force on the conductive Discs is provided which contains several pushbuttons which can be operated so that on the conductive discs for carrying out a deflection of its central sections into an engagement position with the associated contact member the preselected deflection force is exerted that each pushbutton has a force exertion surface adjacent to the conductive disk having ,. that each pushbutton has an exposed area that can be labeled in such a way that that it displays the electrical information generated by the establishment of the electrical connection between de: n first and second sections of the conductor tracks is transmitted that on the carrier at least one, several electrically semiconductor device containing circuit elements connected to selected conductor tracks is attached, the one electrical information after electrical contact has been made between the first and second preselected Processed conductor tracks, and that on the carrier a display device for displaying the processed electrical information is attached. 20 9851 η 09 0