JP4628177B2 - Braille keyboard and key code output control method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a key code representing hiragana, kanji, alphabet, numbers, symbols, etc. output from a standard keyboard such as an ASCII keyboard or JIS keyboard to an information processing apparatus such as a personal computer (PC: hereinafter simply referred to as a personal computer). The present invention relates to a braille keyboard that outputs the same key code and a key code output control method.

  Information processing devices such as personal computers are becoming revolutionary tools that enable many visually impaired people to do what was impossible before. For example, it is possible to create a document with ordinary characters using a word processor creation software or to search a dictionary of a CD-ROM.

  In addition, communication with people who do not have visual impairments is possible through the use of the Internet or e-mail, especially for blind people who have a great handicap in reading and writing ordinary characters, in terms of life and work. Has brought benefits.

  However, with Windows (registered trademark) and other personal computers made based on visual information, mouse operations are fundamental, and starting and switching applications and confirming message display are mainly visual information. It is also true that it brings various difficulties to blind people who operate personal computers by other means.

  When a blind person operates a personal computer, a “screen reader” that reads out screen information, a braille display, or the like is used alone or in combination, and it is operated although it is insufficient. Under such circumstances, there are multiple products that assist information output from personal computers such as screen readers and braille displays, and improvements have been made, but input devices such as keyboards have been commercialized. There are few, and there is no choice but to use standard keyboards such as the above-mentioned ASCII keyboard and JIS keyboard.

  As a standard keyboard that can be used even by visually impaired people, there is a keyboard cover with braille as shown in Patent Document 1. In this method, braille is attached on the cover corresponding to the keys of the standard keyboard, and the cover is attached to the standard keyboard so that the positions of the individual keys on the keyboard are recognized.

Registered utility model No. 3082108

  However, in the above-described patent document 1, the position of each key of the standard keyboard can be recognized from the braille attached on the cover, and even the visually impaired can use the standard keyboard. Since the number of keys is too large, it takes a lot of time to recognize the position of each key and to determine the function of each key. Had a problem that the operation of the personal computer became extremely difficult.

  In addition, in the one disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is a problem that the use of the standard keyboard naturally has a limit because the Braille keys that are used by visually impaired persons are not provided.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and an object thereof is to provide a braille keyboard and a key code output control method capable of solving the above problems.

The Braille keyboard of the present invention is a Braille keyboard having function keys, braille keys, special keys for changing the functions of other keys, and function keys having already determined functions including space keys in the keyboard body, Key codes assigned in correspondence with the key codes of the standard keyboard including the key codes used in the key input in the combination mode by the combination of the Braille keys, special keys and function keys, and the key input in the Braille input mode by at least the Braille keys Storage means for storing key codes used in the control, key input determination control means for determining the input of each key and controlling switching between the combination mode or the Braille input mode, and the combination mode or the Braille input. Depending on the input of each key in mode And a key code output control means for performing output control of the key code stored in the storage means, wherein the space key is provided corresponding to the center of the Braille keys, to the left and right of the space key, the special key And a function key, and a recess for indirectly recognizing the position of the braille key is provided around the space key .
The Braille keyboard of the present invention includes a function key arranged at the upper stage of the keyboard body, a Braille key consisting of six keys arranged at the middle stage of the keyboard body, and other keys arranged at the lower stage of the keyboard body. A braille keyboard having at least a function key including a special key for changing the function and a function key including a space key, which is assigned in correspondence with a key code of a standard keyboard including a numeric keypad. Storage means for storing a key code used in key input in a combination mode by a combination of a key and a function key, and a key code mainly used in key input in the Braille input mode by the Braille key, and input of each key And switch between the combination mode or the braille input mode. Key input determination control means for controlling replacement, and key code output control means for controlling the output of the key code stored in the storage means in response to the input of each key in the combination mode or the Braille input mode. The space key is provided corresponding to the center of the braille key, the special key and function key are provided on the left and right of the space key, and the position of the braille key is around the space key. It is characterized in that a depression for indirectly recognizing is provided .
Further, when the mode is switched to the combination mode, the key code used for the key input in the combination mode is searched from the storage unit according to the key input, and the key code output control unit is searched for the key code searched. A combination mode control means for outputting the key code, and when the mode is switched to the Braille input mode, the key code used for key input in the Braille input mode is retrieved from the storage means according to the key input, and the key code output control is performed. And a Braille input mode control means for outputting the searched key code to the means .
In addition, it has temporary allocation information storage means for storing information temporarily allocated to the space key by simultaneously pressing the function key and the special key, and the key input determination control means includes the combination mode and the In each Braille input mode, the input of each key is determined, and the combination mode control means and the Braille input mode control means perform a character input corresponding to a full key of a standard keyboard, a standard keyboard numeric keypad The space key stored in the temporary allocation information storage means by the numeric keypad input mode for inputting characters corresponding to the above, the shortcut input mode by the combination of the special key and the function key, and the combination of the Braille key and the space key. Temporarily assigned information It may be adapted to control so as to find the key code corresponding to the input of each key in any of the temporary assignment entry mode to be used.
The key code used for key input in the combination mode corresponds to the position of each key on the standard keyboard specified according to the combination of the special key, the function key, and the braille key. Can be.
The key code used for key input in the braille input mode is such that the position of each key of the standard keyboard corresponds to the one specified according to the combination of the keys of the braille key. be able to.
The key input determination control means determines that the key input by the Braille key is present when the key is released, and the plurality of keys simultaneously release the key input by the Braille key. If it is determined that there is a plurality of key inputs, the key input by the special key is determined to be key input when the special key is released, and the key input by the function key is determined by the function key. When a key is pressed, it can be determined that there is a key input.
A key code output control method according to the present invention includes a function key, a Braille key, a special key for changing the function of another key, and a function key having a predetermined function including a space key in a keyboard body. A key code assigned corresponding to a key code of a standard keyboard including a numeric keypad and used for key input in a combination mode by a combination of the Braille key, special key and function key, and at least Braille by the Braille key A key code used for key input in the input mode is stored, the input of each key is determined, the switching of the combination mode or the Braille input mode is controlled, and the combination mode or the Braille input mode is The key code stored in response to each key input Performs the output control, the space key is provided corresponding to the center of the Braille keys, to the left and right of the space key, the special keys and function keys are provided, around the space key, the Braille keys A depression for indirectly recognizing the position of is provided .
The key code output control method of the present invention is arranged at a lower part of the keyboard main body, a function key arranged at the upper part of the keyboard main body, a braille key comprising six keys arranged at the middle part of the keyboard main body. A key code output control method in a braille keyboard having at least a special key for changing the function of another key and a function key whose function is already determined including a space key, and corresponds to a key code of a standard keyboard including a numeric keypad. Key codes used for key input in the combination mode by a combination of the Braille key, special key and function key, and key codes mainly used for key input in the Braille input mode by the Braille key are stored. , The input of each key, and the combination mode Controls the switching of the Braille input mode, performs the output control of the key code stored in response to input of each key in the combination mode or the Braille input mode, the center of the space key is the Braille keys The special key and function key are provided on the left and right of the space key, and a recess for indirectly recognizing the position of the braille key is provided around the space key. and said that you are.
Further, when the mode is switched to the combination mode, the key code used in the key input in the combination mode is searched from the key code stored in accordance with the key input, the searched key code is output, and the Braille When the mode is switched to the input mode, the key code used for the key input in the Braille input mode is searched from the key code stored according to the key input, and the searched key code is output. it can.
Further, information that is temporarily assigned to the space key by simultaneously pressing the function key and the special key is stored, and in each of the combination mode and the braille input mode, the input of each key is determined, Normal input mode for inputting characters corresponding to a full key of a standard keyboard, numeric key input mode for inputting characters corresponding to a numeric keypad of a standard keyboard, shortcut input mode by a combination of the special key and function key, the braille key and the space key The key code search according to the input of each key can be controlled in any of the temporary assignment input modes using the information temporarily assigned to the space key.
The key code used for key input in the combination mode corresponds to the position of each key on the standard keyboard specified according to the combination of the special key, the function key, and the braille key. Can be.
The key code used for key input in the braille input mode is such that the position of each key of the standard keyboard corresponds to the one specified according to the combination of the keys of the braille key. be able to.
In addition, when the key input by the Braille key is determined to be present when the key is released, and the key input by the Braille key is performed, when a plurality of the keys are released at the same time, a plurality of keys are input. The presence of input is determined, the key input by the special key is determined to be key input when the special key is released, and the key input by the function key is the key input when the function key is pressed. It can be determined that there is an input.
In the Braille keyboard and the key code output control method of the present invention, for example, a function key arranged at the upper part of the keyboard body, a Braille key consisting of six keys arranged at the middle part of the keyboard body, and a lower part of the keyboard body. Combination of braille keys, special keys, and function keys by determining at least the input of each key, including special keys that change the functions of other keys that are used, and function keys that have already been determined, including space keys. The key code assigned according to the key code of the standard keyboard including the numeric keypad is output by the key input in the combination mode by the keypad or the Braille input mode mainly by the Braille key, so the number of keys is extremely small compared to the standard keyboard. Allows key input by recognizing the position of each key, Not only in al it is easy to determine the function of each key, it is possible keystrokes Braille keys visually impaired person is familiar.

  According to the Braille keyboard and the key code output control method of the present invention, it is possible to input a key with an extremely small number of keys compared to a standard keyboard, recognize the position of each key, and further determine the function of each key. In addition to being easy to do, it is also possible to perform key input using braille keys familiar to visually impaired persons, so that even visually impaired persons can easily operate the personal computer.

  This embodiment changes the functions of the function keys arranged in the upper part of the keyboard body, the braille keys consisting of six keys arranged in the middle part of the keyboard body, and the other keys arranged in the lower part of the keyboard body. At least a function key having a predetermined function including a special key and a space key to be used, and determining the input of each key, and a combination mode by a combination of Braille keys, special keys and function keys, or mainly by Braille keys By key input in Braille input mode, the key code assigned corresponding to the key code of the standard keyboard including the numeric keypad is output, and key input with an extremely small number of keys is possible compared to the standard keyboard. If it is easy to recognize the position and also to determine the function of each key In addition, it is easy to recognize the position of each key, and further to distinguish the function of each key, by enabling key input with Braille keys that are familiar to visually impaired people. In addition, keystrokes can be entered using Braille keys that are familiar to visually impaired people, so that even visually impaired people can easily operate a personal computer.

  1 is a plan view for explaining a key layout of the Braille keyboard of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining a control system of the Braille keyboard of FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a diagram of the Braille keyboard of FIG. FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a standard keyboard for explaining the key assignment of the Braille keyboard shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the key assignment for the Braille keyboard shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the combination mode in the Braille keyboard of FIG. 1, and FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the Braille input mode in the Braille keyboard of FIG. is there.

  The keyboard body of the braille keyboard 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes, in order from the upper left to the lower right of the drawing, the Esc key 2, the function key 3, the Tab key 4, the braille input 6-point key 5, the Bs key 6, the Delete key 7, Shift key 8, Enter key 9, Left Fun key 10, Left Ctrl key 11, Left Alt key 12, Direct1 key 13, Space key 14, Direct2 key 15, Right Alt key 16, Right Ctrl key 17, Right Fun key 18, A cursor movement key 19 is arranged.

  Here, Esc key 2, Tab key 4, Bs key 6, Delete key 7, Shift key 8, Enter key 9, Left Ctrl key 11, Left Alt key 12, Space key 14, Right Alt key 16, Right Ctrl key 17 The 15 keys of the four arrow keys of the cursor movement key 19 are function keys. The function key is a key whose function is already determined.

  The four keys of the left Fun key 10, the right Fun key 18, the Direct1 key 13, and the Direct2 key 15 are special keys. Special keys are keys that change the function of other keys.

  The function key 3 is arranged in the upper part of the keyboard body of the braille keyboard 1 and has keys F1 to F12.

  Braille key 6-point key 5 for Braille input is arranged at the center of the keyboard body of the Braille keyboard 1 at the left and right, 3 points on the left, 3 points from the inside of the left key (2) From the inside of the right three keys, point (4), point (5), point (6).

  The space key 14 is a lower part of the keyboard body of the Braille keyboard 1 and is arranged corresponding to the center of the 6-point key 5 for Braille input. A recess 14a is provided around the space key 14 so that the position of the 6-point key 5 for Braille input can be easily recognized indirectly.

  The left Ctrl key 11, left Alt key 12, right Alt key 16, and right Ctrl key 17 that are frequently used for shortcut input have various combinations with the 6-point key 5 for braille input. Is provided.

  Four keys, a left Fun key 10, a right Fun key 18, a Direct1 key 13, and a Direct2 key 15, are provided on the left and right sides of the space key 14. The cursor movement key 19 has four arrow keys for moving the cursor vertically and horizontally.

  All the keys described above are arranged so as to protrude from the surface of the keyboard body of the braille keyboard 1, and by pressing any key, a key code corresponding to each key is output to a personal computer or the like. It is like that. Note that the arrangement of these keys is merely an example, and the arrangement can be changed as appropriate. Also, the number of these keys can be increased or decreased as appropriate.

Next, the control system inside the braille keyboard 1 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 2, inside the keyboard body of the Braille keyboard 1, there are a USB-I / F 20, a key code output control unit 21, a key matrix circuit 22, a key input discrimination control unit 23, a combination mode control unit 24, and Braille input. A mode control unit 25, a temporary allocation information storage unit 26, a ROM 27, and a RAM 28 are provided.

  The USB-I / F 20 is USB-connected to the personal computer 30 via a USB cable, for example, and transfers a key code. The USB-I / F 20 receives drive power from the personal computer 30 via the USB cable and supplies the drive power to each control unit in the Braille keyboard 1. The USB-I / F 20 can be connected not only to the personal computer 30 but also to other information processing apparatuses such as a personal computer TV and a PDA.

  The key code output control unit 21 outputs key codes representing hiragana, kanji, alphabets, numbers, symbols, etc., which are output from a standard keyboard 31 described later such as an ASCII keyboard or a JIS keyboard in each of the combination mode and the braille input mode. Output the same key code.

  The key input discrimination control unit 23 discriminates the key input and controls switching of the input mode according to the combination mode in the combination mode control unit 24 or the Braille input mode in the Braille input mode control unit 25.

  That is, in the combination mode, when either the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 which is a special key is pressed twice, the switching from the combination mode to the Braille input mode is instructed. On the other hand, in the Braille input mode, when the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 that is a special key and the Enter key 9 that is a function key are pressed, an instruction to switch from the Braille input mode to the combination mode is given. Here, the combination of the special key and the function key and the number of key inputs are arbitrary, and the setting can be changed as appropriate.

  The key input discrimination control unit 23 discriminates the key input in each of the combination mode and the braille input mode, and the normal input mode, the numeric key input mode, the shortcut for the combination mode control unit 24 and the braille input mode control unit 25. Key input is controlled in either input mode or temporary assignment input mode.

  Further, the key input determination control unit 23 determines the key input of each key described above as follows. First, in the 6-point key 5 for Braille input, it is determined that there is a key input when the key is released. Further, when a plurality of keys are released at the same time in the 6-point key 5 for braille input, the key input is determined with a predetermined time lag.

  However, when inputting in combination with the function key or function key 3, it is determined that the key input is other than the 6-point key 5 for Braille input, and when the 6-point key 5 for Braille input is released, it is determined as repeat. .

  In addition, the above-mentioned Esc key 2, Tab key 4, Bs key 6, Delete key 7, Shift key 8, Enter key 9, Left Ctrl key 11, Left Alt key 12, Space key 14, Right Alt key 16, Right Ctrl key 17. With the function keys which are the four arrow keys of the cursor movement key 19, the key input is discriminated when pressed. Further, when these function keys are released, it is determined as repeat. Further, in the 12 function keys 3, the key input is determined when pressed, and the repeat is determined when the key is released.

  In the special keys such as the left Fun key 10, the right Fun key 18, the Direct1 key 13, and the Direct2 key 15, the key input is determined when the key is released, and the repeat is determined when the key is released. .

  The key input discrimination control unit 23 discriminates the shortcut input mode and the temporary assignment input mode in the combination mode and the Braille input mode. Details thereof will be described later.

  The combination mode control unit 24 is controlled by the key input discrimination control unit 23, and is mainly based on a combination of special keys, function keys, and braille keys in any of the normal input mode, numeric key input mode, shortcut input mode, and temporary assignment input mode. The key code corresponding to the key input is searched from the ROM 27, and the searched key code is controlled to be output from the key code output control unit 21.

  The braille input mode control unit 25 is controlled by the key input discrimination control unit 23, and is a key code mainly corresponding to key input by braille keys in any of the normal input mode, numeric key input mode, shortcut input mode, and temporary assignment input mode. Is retrieved from the ROM 27, and the key code retrieved from the ROM 27 is controlled to be output from the key code output control unit 21.

  The temporary allocation information storage unit 26 stores information temporarily allocated to the space key 14 that can be used in both the combination mode and the Braille input mode. Details thereof will be described later.

  Keys that are assigned to the ROM 27 in correspondence with at least control programs by the respective control units and key codes of the standard keyboard 31 to be described later, and are used for key input in a combination mode using a combination of braille keys, special keys, and function keys. A code and a key code mainly used for key input in a braille input mode using a braille key are stored. The RAM 28 is used as a work area for arithmetic processing by each control unit.

  Next, key assignments in the combination mode and the Braille input mode will be described.

<Key assignments in combination mode>
First, in the normal input mode in the combination mode by the combination mode control unit 24, the respective keys corresponding to the points (1) to (6) of the 6-point key 5 for braille input are arranged on the standard keyboard 31 shown in FIG. The full key is assigned as follows:

  (1) Point key → Full key F key code, (2) Point key → Full key D key code, (3) Point key → Full key S key code, (4) point Key → full key J key code, (5) point key → full key K key code, (6) point key → full key L key code.

  In addition, the standard keyboard 31 is designated with either the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 or the Direct1 key 13 or the Direct2 key 15 which are special keys, and the horizontal position is obtained by combining the 6-point key 5 for Braille input. A key is assigned so that you can specify.

  That is, first, the concept of the steps of the standard keyboard 31 is assumed to be composed of four steps as shown in FIG.

  Here, the stage starting with “1234...” Is the first stage, the stage starting with “QWER...” Is the second stage, and the stage starting with “ASDF. , “ZXCV...” Starts with the fourth stage.

  Each level of the full key of the standard keyboard 31 is assigned so that it can be designated and selected by the next key of the Braille keyboard 1. That is, it corresponds to the one specified by the first stage → Direct1 key 13 + space key 14 or Direct2 key 15 + space key 14. 2nd level → Can be specified with Direct2 key 15. 3rd step → corresponds to the one specified by the Direct1 key 13. 4th row → corresponds to one designated by either the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18.

  Further, the horizontal position of the full key of the standard keyboard 31 corresponds to the one specified by the combination with the Braille key or the like to be pressed together with the above-mentioned column specification.

  That is, the first key of the full key of the standard keyboard 31 is: Tab key 4 → full key 1 key code, (3) dot key → full key 2 key code, (2) dot key → full key 3 key code, (1) point key → full key 4 key code, (1) (2) point key → full key 5 key code, (4) (5) point key → Full key 6 key code, (4) point key → full key 7 key code, (5) point key → full key 8 key code, (6) point key → full key 9 key Code, Bs key 6 → Full key 0 key code, (5) (6) point key → Full key "-" key code, (4) (6) point key → Full key "^" Corresponds to the key code specified by the key code of point (4) (5) (6) → full key "\".

  The second key of the full key of the standard keyboard 31 is the Tab key 4 → Q key code of the full key, (3) dot key → full key W key code, (2) dot key → full key E key code, (1) point key → R key code, (1) (2) point key → full key T key code, (4) (5) point key → full key Y key code, (4) dot key → full key U key code, (5) dot key → full key I key code, (6) dot key → full key O key code, Bs key 6 → P key code of full key, (5) (6) point key → Full key "@" key code, (4) (6) point → Full key "[" key code It corresponds to what you did.

  The third key of the full key of the standard keyboard 31 is the Tab key 4 → A key code of the full key, (3) dot key → full key S key code, (2) dot key → full key D key code, (1) point key → full key F key code, (1) (2) point key → full key G key code, (4) (5) point key → Full key H key code, (4) dot key → full key J key code, (5) dot key → full key K key code, (6) dot key → full key L key code , Bs key 6 → Full key ";" key code, (5) (6) dot key → Full key ":" key code, (4) (6) dot key → Full key "]" It corresponds to the one specified by the key code.

  The fourth key of the standard keyboard 31 full key is the Tab key 4 → Z key code of the full key, (3) dot key → full key X key code, (2) dot key → full key C key code, (1) point key → full key V key code, (1) (2) point key → full key B key code, (4) (5) point key → Full key N key code, (4) dot key → full key M key code, (5) dot key → full key "," key code, (6) dot key → full key " "." Key code, Bs key 6 → full key "/" key code, (5) (6) point key → full key "\" key code.

  The switching from the normal input mode to the numeric keypad input mode and the release of the numeric keypad input mode are switched every time the “Direct1 key 13 + function key 3 F10” is simultaneously pressed, and the key assignment at that time is as follows.

  In the numeric keypad input mode, the corresponding character input can be performed by simultaneously pressing the above-described key operation for designating the first to fourth stages and the 6-point key 5 for Braille input.

  Further, by simultaneously pressing “Direct1 key 13 + F9 of function key 3”, it is possible to switch from the numeric keypad input mode to the normal input mode. Note that the key code output varies depending on the “Numlock” state of the standard keyboard 31.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 5, the key layout of the numeric keypad 32 of the standard keyboard 31 is the first row → NumLock key, / (slash), * (asterisk), − (minus), second row → 7 keys, 8 key, 9 key, 3rd step → 4 key, 5 key, 6 key, + (plus), 4th step → 1 key, 2 key, 3 key, 5th step → 0 key of,. (Period), it is assumed to be the Enter key.

  Note that the Enter key of the numeric keypad 32 of the standard keyboard 31 is not supported to prevent erroneous operation. The Numlock key of the numeric keypad 32 of the standard keyboard 31 is assigned to “Left Fun key 10 or right Fun key 18 + F9 of function key 3” of the Braille keyboard 1.

  Here, in the column designation of the numeric keypad 32 of the standard keyboard 31 by the Braille keyboard 1, the Direct2 key 15 → the first digit of the numeric keypad 32, the Direct1 key 13 + the space key 14 → the second digit of the numeric keypad 32, the Direct1 key 13 → the numeric keypad 32. The third stage, the fourth stage of the numeric keypad 32 (no correspondence), and the fifth stage of the left fun key 10 or the right fun key 18 → the ten key 32 are assigned.

  In the first row of the numeric keypad 32 of the standard keyboard 31, the key at point (4) → not assigned, the key at point (5) → the key code of / (slash) on the numeric keypad 32, point (6) Corresponds to the key designated by the * (asterisk) key of the numeric keypad 32 and the-(minus) key of the Bs key 6 → numeric keypad 32.

In the second row of the numeric keypad 32 of the standard keyboard 31, the key at point (4) → 7 key of the numeric keypad 32 (NumLock Off: Home), the key at point of (5) → 8 key of the numeric keypad 32
(Numlock Off: Up arrow), corresponding to the key specified by (9) key (Numlock Off: Page Up) of the numeric keypad 32.

In the third row of the numeric keypad 32 of the standard keyboard 31, the key at point (4) → 4 key of numeric keypad 32 (NumLock Off: left arrow), the key at point of (5) → 5 of numeric keypad 32 Key, point key (6) → 6 key of numeric keypad 32
(NumLock Off: right arrow), Bs key 6 → corresponds to the one specified with the + (plus) key of the numeric keypad 32.

In the fourth row of the numeric keypad 32 of the standard keyboard 31, the key at point (4) → 1 key of the numeric keypad 32 (NumLock Off: End), the key at point of (5) → the second key of the numeric keypad 32
(NumLock Off: Down arrow), corresponding to the key specified by the key (3) (NumLock Off: Page Down) of the numeric keypad 32.

In the fifth row of the numeric keypad 32 of the standard keyboard 31, the point key (4) → the key of the numeric keypad 0 (NumLock Off
(Insert), (5) key → Numeric keypad 32 (period) key (NumLock Off:
Delete), (6) corresponds to the point key → specified without assignment.

  The on / off states of NumLock, CapsLock, and ScrollLock are held on the personal computer 30 side. This information is sent when the personal computer 30 is started, immediately after the USB cable is connected, and immediately after the NumLock / CapsLock / ScrollLock key is pressed.

  The standard keyboard 31 captures this information and changes the mode. When multiple keyboards are connected, the mode can be changed with another keyboard.

  The numeric keypad input function of the Braille keyboard 1 in this embodiment is to manage the mode (Direct1 key 13 + F10 of function key 3) independently of the keyboard and send the code of the numeric keypad 32 of the corresponding standard keyboard 31. . In this case, the function of the key to be determined is changed depending on the on / off state of “NumLock” held on the personal computer 30 side.

  That is, in the explanation part in the numeric keypad input mode, the part described as (NumLock Off) is a function when “NumLock” is off. Note that “NumLock” can also be switched on the braille keyboard 1 in the present embodiment by “the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 + F9 of the function key 3”.

<Key assignments in Braille input mode>
Next, key assignment and the like in the braille input mode by the braille input mode control unit 25 will be described.

  This mode outputs the key code corresponding to the character input with the six keys of the six-point key 5 for Braille input, and the key so that all the key codes of the full key of the standard keyboard 31 can be supported. Is assigned.

  In this mode, simultaneous pressing with the above-described function keys is also possible, and shortcut commands can be used efficiently. In the braille input mode, the above-described combination mode can be switched by pressing the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 that is a special key and the Enter key 9 that is a function key.

  For the symbol keys that are not assigned to the 6-point key 5 for Braille input, characters are assigned as follows.

  That is, (1) point key → full key A key code, (1) (2) point key → full key B key code, (1) (4) point key → full key C Key code, (1) (4) (5) point key → Full key D key code, (1) (5) point key → Full key E key code, (1) (2) (4 ) Point key → full key F key code, (1) (2) (4) (5) point key → full key G key code, (1) (2) (5) point key → Full key H key code, (2) (4) point key → Full key I key code, (2) (4) (5) point key → Full key J key code, (1) (3) Point key → Full key K key code, (1) (2) (3) point key → Full key L key code, (1) (3) (4) point key → Full key M key code, (1) (3) (4) (5) point key → Full key N key code, (1) (3) (5) point key → Full key O key Code, (1) (2) (3) ( 4) Point key → Full key P key code, (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) Point key → Full key Q key code, (1) (2) (3) Key of point (5) → R key code of full key, key of point (2) (3) (4) → key code of full key S, point of (2) (3) (4) (5) Key → Full key T key code, (1) (3) (6) point key → Full key U key code, (1) (2) (3) (6) point key → Full key V key code, (2) (4) (5) (6) point key → Full key W key code, (1) (3) (4) (6) point key → Full key X key Key code, (1) (3) (4) (5) (6) point key → Full key Y key code, (1) (3) (5) (6) point key → Full key Z It is a key code.

  In addition, (2) point key → full key 1 key code, (2) (3) point key → full key 2 key code, (2) (5) point key → full key 3 key code Key code, (2) (5) (6) point key → full key 4 key code, (2) (6) point key → full key 5 key code, (2) (3) (5 ) Point key → full key 6 key code, (2) (3) (5) (6) point key → full key 7 key code, (2) (3) (6) point key → 8 key code of full key, (3) (5) point key → full key 9 key code, (3) (5) (6) point key → full key 0 key code .

  In addition, (1) (2) (3) (4) (6) point key → full key "^" key code (*), (1) (6) point key → full key ";" Key code (*), (1) (5) (6) point key → full key ":" key code (*), (5) key → full key "," key code ( *), (3) point key → full key "." Key code (*), (4) point key → full key "\" key code, (6) point key → full key "\" Key code, (2) (4) (6) point key → full key "@" key code, (1) (2) (6) point key → full key "[" Key code, (3) (4) (5) point key → full key "]" key code, (3) (4) point key → full key "/" key code, (3) ( 6) Point key → Full key "-" key code.

  Note that brailles marked with (*) are already used by other symbols, and therefore do not match information processing brailles.

  Further, key assignment in the numeric keypad input mode corresponding to the numeric keypad 32 of the standard keyboard 31 shown in FIG. 5 is as follows.

  First, in switching and canceling the numeric keypad input mode, it is possible to switch to the numeric keypad input mode by simultaneously pressing the Direct1 key 13 which is a function key and the function key 3 F10.

  In the numeric keypad input mode, the corresponding character input can be performed by simultaneously pressing the key relating to the above-mentioned column designation and the key of the six-point key 5 for braille input. In addition, switching to the normal input mode can be performed by simultaneously pressing the Direct1 key 13 and the function key F9. Also, it is canceled when the input mode is switched. The output key code varies depending on the state of NumLock on the personal computer 30 side.

Here, point key (2) → 1 key code of numeric keypad 32
(NumLock Off: End), (2) Key at point (3) → 2 key code of numeric keypad 32 (NumLock Off: Down arrow), (2) Key at point (5) → 3 key of numeric keypad 32 Code (NumLock Off: Page Down), (2) (5) (6) point key → Numeric keypad 4 key code (NumLock Off: left arrow), (2) (6) point key → numeric keypad 32 5 key code, (2) (3) (5) point key → Numeric key 32 6 key code (NumLock Off: right arrow), (2) (3) (5) (6) point Key → 7 key code of numeric keypad 32 (NumLock Off: Home), key of point (2) (3) (6) → 8 key code of numeric keypad 32 (NumLock Off: up arrow), (3) ( Key at point 5) → Key code 9 on numeric keypad 32 (NumLock Off: Page Up), Key at point 3 (5) (6) → Key code 0 on numeric keypad 32 (NumLock Off: Insert), Key at point (3) → “.” Key code of numeric keypad 32
(NumLock Off: Delete), (3) (4) point key → "/" on numeric keypad 32
Key code of (4), (5) point key → Keypad 32 “*” key code, (3) (6) point key → Numeric keypad “-”
The key code of (1), (4), (5), and (6) is changed to the key code “+” of the numeric keypad 32.

  The on / off states of NumLock, CapsLock, and ScrollLock are held on the personal computer 30 side. This information is sent to the braille keyboard 1 when the personal computer 30 is started, immediately after the USB cable is connected, and immediately after the NumLock / CapsLock / ScrollLock key is pressed. When a plurality of keyboards are connected to the personal computer 30, the mode can be changed with other keyboards.

  In this numeric keypad input mode, the mode (Direct1 key 13 and F10 of function key 3) is managed by the keyboard, and the key code of the corresponding numeric keypad 32 is sent to the personal computer 30 side. In this case, the function of the key determined by the on / off state of “NumLock” held on the personal computer 30 side changes.

  In the description of the numeric keypad input mode described above, the part described as (Numlock Off) is a function when “NumLock” is off. Note that “NumLock” can also be switched on this keyboard by the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 and the function key 3 F9.

  Next, key assignment for shortcut input, which is a function effective in both the combination mode and the Braille input mode, will be described.

  That is, function keys whose functions have already been determined, such as function key 3, Shift key 8, left Ctrl key 11, right Ctrl key 17, left Alt key 12, right Alt key 16, etc., are commonly used in both modes. be able to. The left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 which are special keys have the same function.

  When assigning keys for shortcut input that can be used in both modes, function key 3 F1 → standard keyboard 31 F1 key code, function key 3 F2 → standard keyboard 31 F2 key code, function key 3 F3 → F3 key code of standard keyboard 31, F4 of function key 3 → F4 key code of standard keyboard 31, F5 of function key 3 → F5 key code of standard keyboard 31, F6 of function key 3 → standard keyboard 31 F6 key code, function key 3 F7 → standard keyboard 31 F7 key code, function key 3 F8 → standard keyboard 31 F8 key code, function key 3 F9 → standard keyboard 31 F9 key code, Function key 3 F10 → Standard keyboard 31 F10 key Code, F11 key code of the F11 → standard keyboard 31 function keys 3, and has a F12 key code of the F12 → standard keyboard 31 function keys 3.

  Also, left Fun key 10 or right Fun key 18 + F9 of function key 3 → NumLock key code of standard keyboard 31, left Fun key 10 or right Fun key 18 + F10 of function key 3 → print screen key code of standard keyboard 31, Left Fun key 10 or right Fun key 18 + F11 → Scroll lock key code of standard keyboard 31 Left Fun key 10 or right Fun key 18 + F12 of function key 3 → Pause key code of standard keyboard 31 Delete key 7 → standard keyboard 31 The Delete key code or Insert key code (when the Delete mode is changed).

  In the temporary switching in the Delete mode switching, the Insert key code can be output regardless of the current Delete mode of the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 + Delete key 7 → the standard keyboard 31.

  In the fixed switching in the Delete mode switching, the Direct1 key 13 + Delete key 7 → Delete key key code is switched to Insert (the key code is not output), the Direct1 key 13 is continuously executed twice or more → Delete key key code Can be switched to Delete (no key code is output). However, it is canceled when the input mode is switched.

  Also, the Tab key 4 → Tab key code, the Bs key 6 → BackSpace key code, and the Shift key 8 → default Left Shift key code are output.

  In the fixed switching in the Shift mode switching, the key code of the Direct1 key 13 + function key 3 F5 → Shift key is switched to the left Shift (no key code is output), the irect1 key 13 + function key 3 F6 → Shift key The key code can be switched to the right Shift (the key code is not output). However, it is canceled when the input mode is switched.

Also, the Enter key 9 → Full key Enter key code, Left Ctrl key 11 → Left Ctrl key code, Right Ctrl key 17 → Right Ctrl key code, Left Alt key 12 → Left Alt key code, Right Alt key 16 → Right Alt key code, cursor movement key 19 “→” → “→” arrow key code, cursor movement key 19 “↑” → “↑” arrow key code, cursor movement key 19 “↓” → “ “↓” arrow key code, cursor movement key 19 “←” → “←” arrow key code, Esc key 2 → Escape key code, space key 14 → Space key code, left Fun key 10 or right Fun key 18 + Esc key 2 → half-width / full-width key code, left Fun key 10 or right Fun key 18 + space key 14 → left Win key code, left Fun key 10 or right Fun key 18 + cursor move key 19 “↑” → Page
Up key code, Left Fun key 10 or Right Fun key 18 + Cursor move key 19 “↓” → Page Down key code, Left Fun key 10 or Right Fun key 18 + Cursor move key 19 “←” → Home key Code, left Fun key 10 or right Fun key 18 + cursor movement key 19 "→" → End key code, left Fun key 10 or right Fun key 18 + Direct1 key 13 → no conversion key code, left Fun key 10 or right Fun Key 18 + Direct2 key 15 → conversion key code, Direct1 key 13 + cursor movement key 19 “↓” → App key code, Direct1 key 13 + cursor movement key 19 “←” → Katakana / Hiragana key code, Direct1 key 13 + cursor The key code of the movement key 19 is “→” → right Win key code, Direct2 key 15 + Esc key 2 → CapsLock key code.

  In the shortcut input in the combination mode, the left Ctrl key 11 or the right Ctrl key 17 + the left Alt key 12 or the right Alt key 16 + the Direct1 key 13 or the Direct2 key 15 + the space key 14 + the 6-point key 5 for inputting Braille 5 It is also possible to determine that it is a shortcut input in the case of reading out text data copied to the clipboard, for example.

  On the other hand, in the shortcut input in the Braille input mode, the left Ctrl key 11 or the right Ctrl key 17 + the left Alt key 12 or the right Alt key 16 + the six-point key 5 (2), (3) and (6) for Braille input. By inputting simultaneously, it is also possible to determine that the shortcut input is similar.

  In the case of shortcut input in the combination mode and the Braille input mode, for example, the left Ctrl key 11 or the right Ctrl key 17 + the left Alt key 12 or the right Alt key 16 + F8 of the function key 3 is simultaneously input, so that, for example, the number scale is read. It is also possible to determine that it is a setting shortcut input. It is also possible to determine that each time these keys are pressed, the input is a shortcut input for alternately switching the “digit reading mode / single character reading mode” of the number.

  Note that the shortcut key assignment here is merely an example, and various shortcut input key assignments can be made by combining the special key, function key, function key 3, and braille input 6-point key 5 described above. Can be done.

  Next, temporary key assignment to the space key 14 in the temporary assignment input mode will be described.

  Here, the function keys described above are temporarily assigned to the space key 14 and pressed simultaneously with the 6-point key 5 for braille input so that commands used by, for example, a screen reader on the personal computer 30 side can be input efficiently. Thus, command input can be assisted.

  This function can be used in both the combination mode and the Braille input mode, and information temporarily allocated here is stored in the temporary allocation information storage unit 26 in FIG.

  That is, by temporarily pressing the function key to be registered and the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 which are special keys, temporary assignment to the space key 14 is executed. When the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 is input alone, the registered information is canceled when the mode is switched. Note that the left, right, and right keys of Ctrl, Alt, and Shift can be registered. However, in this function, the corresponding code on the left side is sent to the personal computer 30 side. In addition, Win can only be registered alone, and cannot be combined with other function keys.

  Here, in the temporary assignment key, the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 + Shift key 8 → the key code of the Shift key 8 is registered in the space key 14, the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 + the left Ctrl key 11 or the right Ctrl. Register key code of key 17, left Fun key 10 or right Fun key 18 + left Alt key 12 or right Alt key 16 → Register key code of left Alt key 12 or right Alt key 16 in space key 14, left Fun key 10 Alternatively, the right Fun key 18 + Shift key 8 + Left Ctrl key 11 or Right Ctrl key 17 → Register the key code of Shift key 8 + Left Ctrl key 11 or Right Ctrl key 17 in the space key 14, left Fun key 10 or right Fun key 18 + Shift key 8+ Left Alt key 12 or right Alt key 16 → Space key 14 shift key 8 + left Alt key 12 or right Alt key 16 key code registration, left Fun key 10 or right Fun key 18 + left Ctrl key -11 or right Ctrl key 17 + left Alt key 12 or right Alt key 16 → Register key code of left Ctrl key 11 or right Ctrl key 17 + left Alt key 12 or right Alt key 16 in space key 14, left Fun key 10 or Right Fun key 18 + Shift key 8 + Left Ctrl key 11 or Right Ctrl key 17 + Left Alt key 12 or Right Alt key 16 → Space key 14 and Shift key 8 + Left Ctrl key 11 or Right Ctrl key 17 + Left Alt key 12 or Right Alt key 16 The left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 + the left Ctrl key 11 or the right Ctrl key 17 + Esc key 2 → the Win key key code is registered in the space key 14.

  The temporary assignment can be canceled by pressing only the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 which is a special key once, and the original key code of the space key 14 can be output thereafter. Moreover, it is canceled by switching the input mode to the combination mode or the braille input mode, and the original code of the space key 14 can be output thereafter.

Next, a key code output control method using the braille keyboard 1 will be described.
First, as shown in FIG. 6, when there is a key input, the key input determination control unit 23 determines whether it is a combination mode or a braille input mode (steps S1 and S2).

  Here, when the key input is determined in the combination mode, when either the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 as a special key is pressed twice, the mode is switched from the combination mode to the Braille input mode. Determined.

  On the other hand, when the key input is determined in the Braille input mode, when the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 that is a special key and the Enter key 9 that is a function key are pressed, the mode changes from the Braille input mode to the combination mode. It is determined that it is switching.

  If it is determined that the mode is switched to the combination mode, the key input determination control unit 23 controls key input in the combination mode by the combination mode control unit 24 (step S3).

  That is, in the normal input mode in the combination mode, when the keys of points (1) to (6) of the 6-point key 5 for Braille input are input, the full key “SDFJKL” of the standard keyboard 31 shown in FIG. Is output (step S6).

  In addition, the standard keyboard 31 is designated with either the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 or the Direct1 key 13 or the Direct2 key 15 which are special keys, and the horizontal position is obtained by combining the 6-point key 5 for Braille input. Is designated (step S5), the designated key code is output (step S6).

  On the other hand, in (step S4), if F1 of the Direct1 key 13 + function key 3 is simultaneously pressed, the key input discrimination control unit 23 inputs the numeric keypad in the numeric keypad input mode corresponding to the numeric keypad 32 of the standard keyboard 31. The mode is determined (step S7), and key input in the numeric keypad input mode in the combination mode is controlled.

  Here, the key code designated by simultaneously pressing the above-described key operation for designating the first to fourth stages and the 6-point key 5 for braille input is output (steps S8 and S9).

  Further, here, by simultaneously pressing the Direct1 key 13 + the function key 3 F9, the ten-key input mode can be switched to the normal input mode.

  Also, in the combination mode, when there is a key input such as function key 3, Shift key 8, left Ctrl key 11, right Ctrl key 17, left Alt key 12, right Alt key 16 or the like whose function is determined, the key input is discriminated. The controller 23 determines that the shortcut input mode is set (step S10), and outputs a shortcut key code such as F1 to F12 and NumLock corresponding to the input key (steps S11 and S12).

  In the shortcut input mode, the left Ctrl key 11 or the right Ctrl key 17 + the left Alt key 12 or the right Alt key 16 + the Direct1 key 13 or the Direct2 key 15 + the space key 14 + the point (5) of the 6-point key 5 for Braille input are simultaneously used. By inputting, as described above, a key code for reading out the text data copied to the clipboard is output.

  In the shortcut input mode, the left Ctrl key 11 or the right Ctrl key 17 + the left Alt key 12 or the right Alt key 16 + the F8 of the function key 3 is simultaneously input, for example, a key code for setting the number scale reading is output. Is done.

  Further, as described above, by simultaneously pressing the function key to be registered and the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 which are special keys, temporary assignment to the space key 14 is executed, and the temporary assignment is appropriately performed. When the information is stored in the temporary allocation information storage unit 26 and the space key 14 and any one of the six-point key 5 for braille input are pressed at the same time, the key input determination control unit 23 causes the temporary allocation input mode to be (Step S13), the key input in the temporary assignment input mode in the combination mode is controlled, and temporarily registered corresponding to the key corresponding to any combination of the six-point braille input key 5 The key code is output (steps S14 and S15).

  Further, when the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 which is a special key is pressed once, the temporary assignment input mode is canceled and the normal input mode can be restored.

  On the other hand, in (Step S2), if F1 of the Direct1 key 13 + function key 3 is simultaneously pressed, it is determined that the mode is switched from the normal input mode to the numeric keypad input mode, and as shown in FIG. Thus, key input in the braille input mode by the braille input mode control unit 25 is controlled (step S16).

  Here, in the normal input mode of the braille input mode (step S17), as described above, the key code corresponding to the character input with the six keys of the six-point braille key 5 is output (step S18, S19). That is, all six key codes of the standard keyboard 31 correspond to the six keys of the six-point key 5 for Braille input, and a key code corresponding to the combination is output to the six keys. .

  Further, in the Braille input mode, the above-described combination mode can be switched by pressing the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 that is a special key and the Enter key 9 that is a function key.

  If the Direct1 key 13 as a function key and F10 of the function key 3 are simultaneously pressed, it is determined that the numeric keypad input mode corresponds to the numeric keypad 32 of the standard keyboard 31 (step S20). By simultaneously pressing the related key and the key of the 6-point key 5 for braille input, a key code corresponding to the input key is output (steps S21 and S22).

  In the numeric keypad input mode, the normal input mode can be switched by simultaneously pressing the Direct1 key 13 and the function key F9.

  In addition, when there is a key input such as function key 3, Shift key 8, left Ctrl key 11, right Ctrl key 17, left Alt key 12, right Alt key 16, etc. whose functions are determined in the Braille input mode. The discrimination control unit 23 determines that the shortcut input mode is set (step S23), and a shortcut key code such as F1 to F12 or NumLock corresponding to the input key is output (steps S24 and S25).

  In the shortcut input mode in the Braille input mode, the left Ctrl key 11 or the right Ctrl key 17 + the left Alt key 12 or the right Alt key 16 + the six-point key 5 for the Braille input 5 (2) (3) (6) At the same time, as described above, a key code for reading the text data copied to the clipboard is output.

  In the shortcut input mode, the left Ctrl key 11 or the right Ctrl key 17 + the left Alt key 12 or the right Alt key 16 + F8 of the function key 3 are simultaneously input, and as described above, for setting the number scale reading. The key code is output.

  Further, as described above, by simultaneously pressing the function key to be registered and the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 which are special keys, temporary assignment to the space key 14 is executed, and the temporary assignment is appropriately performed. When the information is stored in the temporary allocation information storage unit 26 and the space key 14 and any one of the six-point key 5 for braille input are pressed at the same time, the key input determination control unit 23 causes the temporary allocation input mode to be (Step S26), the key input in the temporary assignment input mode in the braille input mode is controlled, and temporarily registered corresponding to the key corresponding to the combination of any of the six-point key 5 for braille input The key code is output (steps S27 and S28).

  Further, when the left Fun key 10 or the right Fun key 18 which is a special key is pressed once, the temporary assignment input mode is canceled and the normal input mode can be restored.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the function key 3 arranged at the upper stage of the keyboard body, the six-point key 5 for Braille input which is a Braille key composed of the six-point key arranged at the middle stage of the keyboard body, and the keyboard At least a special key for changing the function of other keys arranged in the lower part of the main body and a function key having a predetermined function including the space key 14; A key code assigned corresponding to a key code of a standard keyboard including a numeric keypad is output by a key input in a combination mode by a combination of a key and a function key, or a Braille input mode mainly by a Braille key.

  This makes it possible to enter keys using a very small number of keys compared to a standard keyboard, and it is easy to recognize the position of each key and to determine the function of each key. Keystrokes can be entered using braille keys that are familiar to users, and it is easy not only to recognize the position of each key, but also to distinguish the function of each key. Since it is possible to input keys using keys, even a visually impaired person can easily operate a personal computer.

  In the present embodiment, since the same key code as that of the standard keyboard can be output, all of the software activated on the personal computer side can be used, and various environments can be handled.

  In addition, in this embodiment, a shortcut input mode using a combination of special keys and function keys is installed, so even a PC such as Windows (registered trademark) that is basically operated with a mouse can be operated easily. Can be done.

  The present invention can be applied not only to the personal computer operation but also to the operation of another information processing apparatus that operates by outputting a key code.

It is a top view for demonstrating the key layout of the braille keyboard of this invention. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the control system of the braille keyboard of FIG. It is a top view which shows the standard keyboard in connection with description of the key assignment of the braille keyboard of FIG. It is a top view which shows the standard keyboard in connection with description of the key assignment of the braille keyboard of FIG. It is a top view which shows the numeric keypad of the standard keyboard in connection with description of the key assignment of the braille keyboard of FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the combination mode in the braille keyboard of FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the braille input mode in the braille keyboard of FIG.

Explanation of symbols

1 Braille keyboard
2 Esc key 3 Function key
4 Tab key 5 6-point key for braille input (braille key)
6 Bs key 7 Delete key 8 Shift key 9 Enter key 10 Left Fun key 11 Left Ctrl key 12 Left Alt key 13 Direct1 key 14 Space key
14a hollow
15 Direct2 key 16 Right Alt key 17 Right Ctrl key 18 Right Fun key 19 Cursor move key
20 USB-I / F
21 Key code output control unit (Key code output control means)
22 Key matrix circuit
23 Key input discrimination control unit (key input discrimination control means)
24 combination mode control unit (combination mode control means)
25 Braille input mode control unit (braille input mode control means)
26 Temporary allocation information information storage unit (temporary allocation information information storage means)
27 ROM (storage means)
28 RAM
30 PC
31 Standard keyboard
32 numeric keypad

Claims (14)

A braille keyboard having function keys, braille keys, special keys for changing the functions of other keys, and function keys whose functions have already been determined including space keys,
A key code assigned corresponding to a key code of a standard keyboard including a numeric keypad and used for key input in a combination mode by a combination of the Braille key, special key and function key, and at least in a Braille input mode by the Braille key Storage means for storing a key code used for key input;
A key input determination control means for determining input of each key and controlling switching of the combination mode or the Braille input mode;
Key code output control means for performing output control of the key code stored in the storage means in response to the input of each key in the combination mode or the braille input mode ,
The space key is provided corresponding to the center of the braille key,
The special key and function key are provided on the left and right of the space key,
A Braille keyboard characterized in that a recess is provided around the space key for indirectly recognizing the position of the Braille key . Function keys arranged at the upper part of the keyboard body, Braille keys composed of six keys arranged at the middle part of the keyboard body, and special keys for changing the functions of other keys arranged at the lower part of the keyboard body And a braille keyboard having at least function keys having already determined functions including a space key,
Key codes assigned in correspondence with key codes of standard keyboards including numeric keys and used for key input in the combination mode by the combination of the Braille key, special key and function key, and mainly in the Braille input mode by the Braille key Storage means for storing a key code used for key input;
A key input determination control means for determining input of each key and controlling switching of the combination mode or the Braille input mode;
Key code output control means for performing output control of the key code stored in the storage means in response to the input of each key in the combination mode or the braille input mode ,
The space key is provided corresponding to the center of the braille key,
The special key and function key are provided on the left and right of the space key,
A Braille keyboard characterized in that a recess is provided around the space key for indirectly recognizing the position of the Braille key . When the mode is switched to the combination mode, the key code used for the key input in the combination mode is retrieved from the storage unit according to the key input, and the retrieved key code is output to the key code output control unit. Combination mode control means for causing
When the mode is switched to the Braille input mode, the key code used for key input in the Braille input mode is retrieved from the storage unit in response to the key input, and the key code retrieved is transmitted to the key code output control unit. The Braille keyboard according to claim 1, further comprising: a Braille input mode control means for outputting Temporary allocation information storage means for storing information temporarily allocated to the space key by simultaneously pressing the function key and the special key;
The key input determination control means determines the input of each key in each of the combination mode and the Braille input mode, and corresponds to the full key of a standard keyboard for the combination mode control means and the Braille input mode control means. A normal input mode for inputting characters, a numeric key input mode for inputting characters corresponding to a numeric keypad of a standard keyboard, a shortcut input mode by a combination of the special key and function key, and a combination of the Braille key and the space key, Control is performed so as to search for a key code corresponding to the input of each key in any of the temporary assignment input modes using information temporarily assigned to the space key stored in the temporary assignment information storage means. Braille key according to claim 3 board. The key code used for key input in the combination mode corresponds to the position of each key of the standard keyboard specified according to the combination of the special key, the function key, and the Braille key. The braille keyboard according to any one of claims 1 to 4 . The key code used for key input in the braille input mode is such that the position of each key of the standard keyboard corresponds to the one specified according to the combination of each key of the braille key. The braille keyboard according to any one of claims 1 to 4 . The key input determination control means includes:
When the key input by the braille key is determined to be key input when the key is released,
When the key input by the Braille key is released at the same time, a plurality of key inputs are determined,
The key input by the special key is determined to be key input when the special key is released,
The braille keyboard according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the key input by the function key is determined to be key input when the function key is pressed. A key code output control method having a function key, a braille key, a special key for changing the function of another key, and a function key having a predetermined function including a space key on the keyboard body,
A key code assigned corresponding to a key code of a standard keyboard including a numeric keypad and used for key input in a combination mode by a combination of the Braille key, special key and function key, and at least in a Braille input mode by the Braille key Key code used for key input is stored,
Determine the input of each key, control the switching of the combination mode or Braille input mode,
Performs output control of the key code stored in response to the input of each key in the combination mode or the Braille input mode ,
The space key is provided corresponding to the center of the braille key,
The special key and function key are provided on the left and right of the space key,
A key code output control method , wherein a recess for indirectly recognizing the position of the braille key is provided around the space key . Function keys arranged at the upper part of the keyboard body, Braille keys composed of six keys arranged at the middle part of the keyboard body, and special keys for changing the functions of other keys arranged at the lower part of the keyboard body And a key code output control method in a braille keyboard having at least a function key having a predetermined function including a space key,
Key codes assigned in correspondence with key codes of standard keyboards including numeric keys and used for key input in the combination mode by the combination of the Braille key, special key and function key, and mainly in the Braille input mode by the Braille key Key code used for key input is stored,
Determine the input of each key, control the switching of the combination mode or Braille input mode,
Performs output control of the key code stored in response to the input of each key in the combination mode or the Braille input mode ,
The space key is provided corresponding to the center of the braille key,
The special key and function key are provided on the left and right of the space key,
A key code output control method , wherein a recess for indirectly recognizing the position of the braille key is provided around the space key . When switched to the combination mode, the key code used for key input in the combination mode is searched from the key code stored according to the key input, and the searched key code is output.
When the mode is switched to the Braille input mode, a key code used for key input in the Braille input mode is searched from a key code stored according to the key input, and the searched key code is output. The key code output control method according to claim 8 or 9 . Information temporarily assigned to the space key by storing the function key and the special key simultaneously is stored,
In each of the combination mode and the braille input mode, a normal input mode for determining input of each key and inputting characters corresponding to a full key of a standard keyboard, and a numeric key input mode for inputting characters corresponding to a numeric keypad of a standard keyboard Each key in any one of a shortcut input mode by a combination of the special key and the function key, a temporary assignment input mode using information temporarily assigned to the space key by a combination of the braille key and the space key The key code output control method according to claim 10 , wherein the key code search is controlled according to the input of the key code. The key code used for key input in the combination mode corresponds to the position of each key of the standard keyboard specified according to the combination of the special key, the function key, and the Braille key. The key code output control method according to any one of claims 8 to 11 . The key code used for key input in the braille input mode is such that the position of each key of the standard keyboard corresponds to the one specified according to the combination of each key of the braille key. The key code output control method according to claim 8 . When the key input by the braille key is determined to be key input when the key is released,
When the key input by the Braille key is released at the same time, a plurality of key inputs are determined,
The key input by the special key is determined to be key input when the special key is released,
The key code output control method according to any one of claims 8 to 13 , wherein the key input by the function key is determined to be key input when the function key is pressed.

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