WO2022204531A1 - Computer keyboard - Google Patents

Computer keyboard Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022204531A1
WO2022204531A1 PCT/US2022/021979 US2022021979W WO2022204531A1 WO 2022204531 A1 WO2022204531 A1 WO 2022204531A1 US 2022021979 W US2022021979 W US 2022021979W WO 2022204531 A1 WO2022204531 A1 WO 2022204531A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
keyboard
height
housing
connection
keys
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2022/021979
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Jonathan H. LAU
George O. TURVEY
Original Assignee
Hakkei & Co. Llc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Hakkei & Co. Llc filed Critical Hakkei & Co. Llc
Publication of WO2022204531A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022204531A1/en

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
    • G06F3/0202—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device
    • G06F3/0216—Arrangements for ergonomically adjusting the disposition of keys of a keyboard
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
    • G06F3/0202—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to the field of computer keyboards.
  • a keyboard is one of the primary input devices used with a computer.
  • the keyboard enables a user to input text into a computer or any other electronic machinery. It includes multiple keys or buttons used to create letters, numbers, and symbols, and perform additional functions.
  • Ergonomic keyboards are keyboards designed with ergonomic considerations to minimize muscle strain, fatigue, and other problems related to the posture of the individual when typing. Such keyboards are intended to avoid unnatural positions such that work with the keyboard becomes less tiring.
  • an ergonomic keyboard which helps to maintain the proper posture or positioning of a user during typing and provides better work experience.
  • the keyboard may include at least two housings connected to each other. Each housing may include a first portion towards the first end of the housing and a second portion towards the second end of the housing respectively. The first portion of each housing is being elevated at an angle and gradually decreases at an angle towards the second portion. The first portions of each said housing to be attached or detached with each other through a connection means. Each housing can be operated as an individual unit when desired.
  • the keyboard may include a plurality of keys provided on each housing.
  • the keyboard may include a sensing unit to sense the motion of a user. The angle between the first portion and the said second portion may be in the range of 10-13 degrees.
  • the connections for the housings may include a magnetic coupling, snap and fit connection, pivotal connection, spring connection, hinge connection, sliding connection, or any other connection.
  • each housing may include a charging port.
  • the sensing unit may be a passive infrared sensor, microwave sensor, vibration motion sensor, ultrasound sensor, and reflective motion sensor.
  • each housing may be connected to an electronic device through a wired or wireless connection.
  • the keyboard is a single unit.
  • the keyboard does not separate into right and left portions.
  • the electronic device may have a display screen that displays information in response to input provided by the keyboard.
  • the keyboard may include mechanical MX switches.
  • the keyboard may have an elevated portion at the center that gradually decreases towards the ends of keyboard.
  • the keyboard may include additional signals to a user to better identify their hand placement on the keyboard.
  • the keyboard also supports the multi-protocol transmissions between LE Bluetooth and RF 2.4 GHz using a dongle.
  • the keyboard may provide a communication protocol between serial, Bluetooth, and radio transmissions.
  • Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the keyboard when the two housings of the keyboard are connected with each other.
  • Fig. 2 illustrates the first portion and second portion of the keyboard in a detached manner.
  • Fig. 3 illustrates a side view of the two housing of keyboard.
  • Fig. 4 illustrates a bottom view with a portion of the housing removed.
  • Fig. 5 illustrates a bottom view with a portion of the housing removed.
  • Fig. 6 is a view of the receiver.
  • Fig. 7 is a view of the second receiver.
  • Fig. 8 is a view of the connecting pin.
  • Fig. is a cross-sectional view of the keyboard.
  • Fig. 10 is a view of the keyboard with the top housing removed.
  • Fig. 11 is a view of the keys separated from the housing.
  • Fig. 12 is a view of a flexible printed circuit board.
  • Fig. 13 is a view of a second flexible printed circuit board.
  • Fig. 14 is a view of the electrical connector for the two halves of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 15-17 are views of a latching system for the keyboard.
  • Fig. 18 is a diagram showing USB connection options.
  • Fig. 19 is a diagram showing Bluetooth connection options.
  • Fig. 20 is a view showing the height of the keyboard.
  • Fig. 21 is a view showing the curvature of the keyboard.
  • Fig. 22 is a top view of an embodiment of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 23-43 are sectional views of Fig. 22.
  • Fig. 44 is a top view of an embodiment of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 45-65 are sectional views of Fig. 44.
  • Figs. 66-69 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 70-71 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 72-78 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 79-85 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 86-92 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 93-99 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 100-106 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 107-113 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 114-120 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 121-127 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 128-134 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
  • the keyboard 100 may include a first housing 102 and a second housing 104.
  • the first housing 102 may be attached to the second housing 104 as shown in Fig. 1, or detached as shown in Fig. 2.
  • the first housing 102 may be attached to the second housing 104 using a connecting mechanism 105 with connecting members 112A, 112B.
  • the connecting mechanism 105 may include a button 120 with an angled surface which would be at the top of the keyboard. The user would press down while pulling the two halves 102, 104 apart. To prevent flexing when the two halves 102, 104 are connected, two 30mm x 70mm steel plates 122, 124 provide surface support, adding stability to the keyboard base. To secure the halves, one half may include one or more ball lock pins 126 as shown in Fig. 8. The lock pin 126 may be inserted into receivers 128, 130 as shown in Figs, 6 and 7. The connecting mechanism holds the two halves into place and prevents unintentional movement when a user is pressing on the keys.
  • the connecting members employ a magnetic coupling mechanism, wherein the first connecting member 112A and the second connecting member 112B have opposite magnetic properties.
  • the magnetic force of attraction connects the first housing 102 to the second housing 104.
  • the connecting members (112A, 112B) may employ a snap and fit mechanism.
  • the first connecting member 112A may include a plurality of protrusions and the second connecting member 112B includes a plurality of holes or grooves have enough space where the protrusions of first connecting member 112A can be easily fixed. In use, when the user presses or forces one of the connecting members 112A,
  • the protrusion of the first member may fix in the groove of the other member, and a stable connection between each housing (102, 104) takes place.
  • the connecting members (112A, 112B) can also employ a hinge mechanism or pivotal mechanism that facilitates the angular connection between the first housing 102 and second housing 104.
  • the connecting mechanism 105 may be a spring mechanism, sliding mechanism, or other mechanism.
  • the keyboard may include a latching system 140 to hold the two halves 102, 104 together.
  • the first housing 102 and the second housing 104 both can work independently from each other when they are separated from each other.
  • the keyboard may be a single unit and will not separate into two housings or halves.
  • the keyboard may provide light for the keys.
  • the keyboard may use a light source below the keys.
  • the light source may project through the keys to light up the letter, number, or symbol on the key.
  • each housing (102, 104) of the keyboard 100 includes a first portion (106 A, 106B) towards the first end (107A, 107B) and the second portion (108A, 108B) towards the second end (107C, 107D) of each housing (102, 104).
  • each housing (102, 104) of the keyboard 100 is configured so that the first portions (106A, 106B) of both housings are elevated towards the first ends (107 A, 107B) and gradually decreases at an angle towards the second portions (108A, 108B).
  • the first portion (106 A, 106B) is being elevated at an angle in the range of 10 ⁇ 13 degrees from the second portion (108A, 108B). This angle of elevation may be well suited for individuals who want to retain or maintain the proper posture or positioning of their fingers on the keyboard.
  • the keyboard 100 When both housings (102, 104) are joined or combined at the first ends, the keyboard 100 will act as a single unit.
  • the keyboard 100 has an elevated curvature at the center and gradually decreasing curvature towards the second ends (107C, 107D) of the keyboard 100. This elevated and gradually decreasing structure or curvature may help users in maintaining the proper posture or positioning of their fingers and wrists on the keyboard and may also encourage users to work more efficiently.
  • the keyboard has a downward slope away from the user.
  • the keyboard may measure 26.6mm from the base of the keyboard to its highest elevation point (with Choc keycap attached) as shown in Fig. 21.
  • both housings (102, 104) of the ergonomic keyboard 100 include a plurality of keys (110A, 110B) mounted on the first (106 A, 106B) and second portions (108A, 108B) of each housing.
  • the keys (110A, 110B) include alphanumeric, control, function, and navigation keys that allow the user to provide inputs to the electronic device connected to the keyboard 100 via wired connection or wireless connection.
  • the keyboard may include mechanical switches below the keys. Keyboards with mechanical switches may offer a better typing experience, may improve work satisfaction, and may enable users to customize their keyboard to their preferences. To ensure the mechanical switches are able to clip securely into the keyboard plate (see Fig. 11), the design reduces the rate of change for the slope. Referring to Figs. 9 and 10, the slope of the keyboard curvature ensures standard keycaps and Cherry Mx keycaps have enough key clearance when pressed.
  • the QWERTY layout with Choc or Mx keys are used in the gaming market.
  • Mx keys are the most popular in E-Sports.
  • the thumb is already in position at the spacebar when reaching to, for example, the number one key. This is true for the mirror on the right half of the keyboard.
  • the keyboard uses a board-board connector that links the flexible PCB 150, 152 (tan color in figures) for the key switches and rigid “main” PCB 154, 156 (green color in figures).
  • An ergonomic curvature that supports mechanical switches will contain various slopes. A single PCB layer cannot accommodate various slopes without forcefully bending the PCB and components.
  • the keyboard is designed for injection molding, using a ribbed skeleton 180 integrated onto the top enclosure. Having a unibody support structure on the top layer of the enclosure reduces the chances of error and eliminates the need for a skeleton mold.
  • the keyboard may include one or more sensing units. Referring to Fig. 3, in one embodiment, a sensing unit (114A, 114B) may be provided on housings 102 and 104. The sensing unit (114A, 114B) senses user presence on the keyboard 100 and sends a signal to the control unit. The control unit enables the automatic shut on/off of the keyboard 100.
  • the sensing unit (114A, 114B) detects that there is no motion performed by the user on the keyboard 100, the keyboard 100 goes into sleep mode or shuts off and thereby saves the power consumption of the keyboard 100. If the sensing unit (114A, 114B) detects the presence of the user’s motion on the keyboard, the sensing unit (114A, 114B) sends a signal to the control unit which activates the keyboard 100 for use. In one embodiment, the sensing unit may sense within a 30-degree angle of the sensing unit.
  • the keyboard may include one or more batteries.
  • the battery may share the same USB-C ports 116A, 116B used to create a serial connection between the keyboard and the device.
  • the keyboard may use a 1800mAh - 2000mAh LIPO flat pack battery. Each half of the keyboard operated independently from the other half. In one embodiment, when the keyboard is off and connected to a USB-C power source, the keyboard will charge at lOOOMah and will reach 100% charge in approximately four hours. When the keyboard is operational and connected to a USB-C power source, the keyboard will charge at 500Mah and will reach 100% charge in approximately twelve hours.
  • the first housing 102 and second housing 104 may be electrically connected with a four pin spring connector 182.
  • the firmware implements a priority queue-like data structure that enables intelligent protocol by determining a connection using serial, Bluetooth LE, and 2.4Ghz Bluetooth LE without explicit user interaction. Each half of the keyboard and the dongle will be making decisions until it actually connects to another device.
  • the method to establish a connection using a priority queue with its host device is described below and in Figs. 18 and 19.
  • a device which powers on will first check if it has an active USB connection to a host.
  • a keyboard half will determine whether it has a wired connection to the other keyboard half.
  • the next step for a keyboard half is to try to establish a wireless connection to the other half of the keyboard. 4. If the halves are paired with one another (either wired or wirelessly), they elect a “main controller” - whichever half of the keyboard has a USB connection to host. If BOTH halves of the keyboard have a USB connection to a host, the election is arbitrary. If NEITHER half of the keyboard has a USB connection, then proceed to the “wireless connection to host” steps below starting at step 8.
  • each keyboard half acts independently until a pairing is created.
  • each half of the keyboard tries to make a connection to the dongle it’s configured for. If a connection is made to the dongle, whichever half makes the connection first is elected “main controller.” If the other half is not connected (wired or wireless), then each keyboard half acts independently until a pairing is created.
  • each half tries to connect to any Bluetooth devices it knows about. If a connection is made, the first half to make the connection is elected “main controller.” If the other half is not connected, then each keyboard half acts independently.
  • the keyboard may have a topography which has many heights and angles.
  • the center of the keyboard nearest to the user may be highest point on the keyboard.
  • the Space bars or keys may be the highest points on the keyboard as shown in Figs. 27 and 28.
  • Figs. 23-43 show the height in millimeters of the center of each key relative to the height of the center of the right Space key.
  • the right Space key is assigned a height of 0.00.
  • the other keys are assigned a height relative to the right Space key.
  • the left Space bar has a height of 0.91 mm which means that the center of the left Space bar is 0.91 mm lower than the center of the right space key.
  • the highest points on the keyboard are the Space bars. Moving to the right of the Space bars, the keyboard angles downward until it reaches a valley and then moves upward towards the end of the keyboard as shown in Fig. 27. The profile is similar to the left of the Space bars. Other rows of keys show similar profiles as shown in Figs. 23-26.
  • the keyboard also slopes downward away from the user. Referring to Figs. 21 and 28, the highest point on the keyboard is the right Space bar. Moving away from the user, the keyboard angles downward until it reaches a valley and then moves upward toward the rear of the keyboard as shown in Fig. 28. Other columns of keys show similar profiles as shown in Figs. 29-43.
  • the keyboard has a compound slope.
  • the keyboard slopes downward to the right and also slopes to the rear until it reaches a valley and then slopes upward.
  • the keyboard slopes downward to the left and also slopes to the rear until it reaches a valley and then slopes upward.
  • the keyboard may not have a valley and instead the slope continues toward the edges of the keyboard.
  • the keyboard may reach a valley, but the slope remains substantially flat after the valley toward the edges of the keyboard.
  • the keys may be positioned at various angles relative to the vertical to correspond to the slope.
  • the angle of the right Space key is 4 degrees and the key to the right of right of the Space key (for example, the Alt key) is 6.4 degrees. Moving to the right, the angles become less, then the angles become almost vertical, and then the angles increase in the other direction as the upper surface formed by the keys moves toward the edge of the keyboard. These angles also correspond to the slope of the upper surface formed by the keys.
  • Other rows of keys show similar angles and profiles as shown Figs. 45-48.
  • the keys may be positioned at various angles relative to the vertical to correspond to the slope.
  • the angle of the right Space key is 2.1 degrees and the key to the left of the right Space key (for example, the N key) is 5.0 degrees. Moving to the left (away from the user), the angle decreases and then the angle increases in the other direction as the upper surface formed by the keys moves toward the edge of the keyboard.
  • Other rows of keys show similar angles and profiles as shown Figs. 50 and 52-65.
  • Figs. 66-69 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
  • Figs. 70-71 show another embodiment of the keyboard wherein the keyboard is a single unit. The keyboard does not separate into right and left portions.
  • Figs. 72-134 show other embodiments of the keyboard with different layouts of the keys and different topographies of the keyboard.

Abstract

In one embodiment, the keyboard includes at least two housings which can be attached or detached from each other through a connection means. Each housing includes a first portion towards the first end and a second portion towards the second end respectively. The first portion of both housings is elevated at an angle and gradually decreasing towards the second portion. The keyboard forms a curved shape when the first and second housing are joined together. In another embodiment, the keyboard slopes from the front portion to the rear portion. In yet another embodiment, the keyboard is a single unit and the keyboard does not separate into a right portion and a left portion.

Description

COMPUTER KEYBOARD
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/166,888, filed March 26, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of computer keyboards.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] A keyboard is one of the primary input devices used with a computer. The keyboard enables a user to input text into a computer or any other electronic machinery. It includes multiple keys or buttons used to create letters, numbers, and symbols, and perform additional functions. Ergonomic keyboards are keyboards designed with ergonomic considerations to minimize muscle strain, fatigue, and other problems related to the posture of the individual when typing. Such keyboards are intended to avoid unnatural positions such that work with the keyboard becomes less tiring.
[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a keyboard that enables the proper posture of the user working on it, alleviating the pain caused by repetitive stress injuries and also provides an enhanced work experience.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] According to the one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an ergonomic keyboard which helps to maintain the proper posture or positioning of a user during typing and provides better work experience. The keyboard may include at least two housings connected to each other. Each housing may include a first portion towards the first end of the housing and a second portion towards the second end of the housing respectively. The first portion of each housing is being elevated at an angle and gradually decreases at an angle towards the second portion. The first portions of each said housing to be attached or detached with each other through a connection means. Each housing can be operated as an individual unit when desired. The keyboard may include a plurality of keys provided on each housing. The keyboard may include a sensing unit to sense the motion of a user. The angle between the first portion and the said second portion may be in the range of 10-13 degrees. The connections for the housings may include a magnetic coupling, snap and fit connection, pivotal connection, spring connection, hinge connection, sliding connection, or any other connection.
[0006] According to one embodiment, each housing may include a charging port.
[0007] According to one embodiment, the sensing unit may be a passive infrared sensor, microwave sensor, vibration motion sensor, ultrasound sensor, and reflective motion sensor. [0008] According to one embodiment, each housing may be connected to an electronic device through a wired or wireless connection.
[0009] According to one embodiment, the keyboard is a single unit. The keyboard does not separate into right and left portions.
[0010] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may have a display screen that displays information in response to input provided by the keyboard.
[0011] According to one embodiment, the keyboard may include mechanical MX switches.
[0012] According to one embodiment, the keyboard may have an elevated portion at the center that gradually decreases towards the ends of keyboard.
[0013] In one embodiment, the keyboard may include additional signals to a user to better identify their hand placement on the keyboard.
[0014] Furthermore, in one embodiment the keyboard also supports the multi-protocol transmissions between LE Bluetooth and RF 2.4 GHz using a dongle. In one embodiment, the keyboard may provide a communication protocol between serial, Bluetooth, and radio transmissions.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the keyboard when the two housings of the keyboard are connected with each other.
[0016] Fig. 2 illustrates the first portion and second portion of the keyboard in a detached manner.
[0017] Fig. 3 illustrates a side view of the two housing of keyboard.
[0018] Fig. 4 illustrates a bottom view with a portion of the housing removed.
[0019] Fig. 5 illustrates a bottom view with a portion of the housing removed.
[0020] Fig. 6 is a view of the receiver. [0021] Fig. 7 is a view of the second receiver.
[0022] Fig. 8 is a view of the connecting pin.
[0023] Fig. is a cross-sectional view of the keyboard.
[0024] Fig. 10 is a view of the keyboard with the top housing removed.
[0025] Fig. 11 is a view of the keys separated from the housing.
[0026] Fig. 12 is a view of a flexible printed circuit board.
[0027] Fig. 13 is a view of a second flexible printed circuit board.
[0028] Fig. 14 is a view of the electrical connector for the two halves of the keyboard.
[0029] Figs. 15-17 are views of a latching system for the keyboard.
[0030] Fig. 18 is a diagram showing USB connection options.
[0031] Fig. 19 is a diagram showing Bluetooth connection options.
[0032] Fig. 20 is a view showing the height of the keyboard.
[0033] Fig. 21 is a view showing the curvature of the keyboard.
[0034] Fig. 22 is a top view of an embodiment of the keyboard.
[0035] Figs. 23-43 are sectional views of Fig. 22.
[0036] Fig. 44 is a top view of an embodiment of the keyboard.
[0037] Figs. 45-65 are sectional views of Fig. 44.
[0038] Figs. 66-69 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
[0039] Figs. 70-71 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
[0040] Figs. 72-78 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
[0041] Figs. 79-85 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
[0042] Figs. 86-92 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
[0043] Figs. 93-99 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
[0044] Figs. 100-106 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
[0045] Figs. 107-113 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
[0046] Figs. 114-120 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
[0047] Figs. 121-127 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
[0048] Figs. 128-134 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0049] Embodiments of the present invention disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like numerals represent like elements throughout the figures, and in which example embodiments are shown. [0050] Referring to Figure 1, one embodiment of a keyboard 100 is shown. In one embodiment, the keyboard 100 may include a first housing 102 and a second housing 104. The first housing 102 may be attached to the second housing 104 as shown in Fig. 1, or detached as shown in Fig. 2. The first housing 102 may be attached to the second housing 104 using a connecting mechanism 105 with connecting members 112A, 112B.
[0051] Referring to Fig. 4, in one embodiment, the connecting mechanism 105 may include a button 120 with an angled surface which would be at the top of the keyboard. The user would press down while pulling the two halves 102, 104 apart. To prevent flexing when the two halves 102, 104 are connected, two 30mm x 70mm steel plates 122, 124 provide surface support, adding stability to the keyboard base. To secure the halves, one half may include one or more ball lock pins 126 as shown in Fig. 8. The lock pin 126 may be inserted into receivers 128, 130 as shown in Figs, 6 and 7. The connecting mechanism holds the two halves into place and prevents unintentional movement when a user is pressing on the keys. [0052] In one embodiment, the connecting members employ a magnetic coupling mechanism, wherein the first connecting member 112A and the second connecting member 112B have opposite magnetic properties. In use, when one of the connecting members (112A, 112B) is brought near the other connecting member (112A, 112B), the magnetic force of attraction connects the first housing 102 to the second housing 104.
[0053] In another embodiment, the connecting members (112A, 112B) may employ a snap and fit mechanism. For example, the first connecting member 112A may include a plurality of protrusions and the second connecting member 112B includes a plurality of holes or grooves have enough space where the protrusions of first connecting member 112A can be easily fixed. In use, when the user presses or forces one of the connecting members 112A,
112B against each other, the protrusion of the first member may fix in the groove of the other member, and a stable connection between each housing (102, 104) takes place.
[0054] In another embodiment, the connecting members (112A, 112B) can also employ a hinge mechanism or pivotal mechanism that facilitates the angular connection between the first housing 102 and second housing 104.
[0055] In other embodiments, the connecting mechanism 105 may be a spring mechanism, sliding mechanism, or other mechanism.
[0056] Referring to Figs. 15-17, in one embodiment, the keyboard may include a latching system 140 to hold the two halves 102, 104 together. [0057] The first housing 102 and the second housing 104 both can work independently from each other when they are separated from each other.
[0058] In another embodiment, the keyboard may be a single unit and will not separate into two housings or halves.
[0059] The keyboard may provide light for the keys. In one embodiment, the keyboard may use a light source below the keys. The light source may project through the keys to light up the letter, number, or symbol on the key.
[0060] Referring to Figs. 1 and 2, each housing (102, 104) of the keyboard 100 includes a first portion (106 A, 106B) towards the first end (107A, 107B) and the second portion (108A, 108B) towards the second end (107C, 107D) of each housing (102, 104). Referring to Figs. 1-3, each housing (102, 104) of the keyboard 100 is configured so that the first portions (106A, 106B) of both housings are elevated towards the first ends (107 A, 107B) and gradually decreases at an angle towards the second portions (108A, 108B). In one embodiment, the first portion (106 A, 106B) is being elevated at an angle in the range of 10 ~ 13 degrees from the second portion (108A, 108B). This angle of elevation may be well suited for individuals who want to retain or maintain the proper posture or positioning of their fingers on the keyboard.
[0061] When both housings (102, 104) are joined or combined at the first ends, the keyboard 100 will act as a single unit. The keyboard 100 has an elevated curvature at the center and gradually decreasing curvature towards the second ends (107C, 107D) of the keyboard 100. This elevated and gradually decreasing structure or curvature may help users in maintaining the proper posture or positioning of their fingers and wrists on the keyboard and may also encourage users to work more efficiently.
[0062] In one embodiment, the keyboard has a downward slope away from the user. In one embodiment, the keyboard may measure 26.6mm from the base of the keyboard to its highest elevation point (with Choc keycap attached) as shown in Fig. 21.
[0063] The topography of the keyboard will be discussed in more detail herein.
[0064] Referring to Fig. 1, both housings (102, 104) of the ergonomic keyboard 100 include a plurality of keys (110A, 110B) mounted on the first (106 A, 106B) and second portions (108A, 108B) of each housing. The keys (110A, 110B) include alphanumeric, control, function, and navigation keys that allow the user to provide inputs to the electronic device connected to the keyboard 100 via wired connection or wireless connection. [0065] In one embodiment, the keyboard may include mechanical switches below the keys. Keyboards with mechanical switches may offer a better typing experience, may improve work satisfaction, and may enable users to customize their keyboard to their preferences. To ensure the mechanical switches are able to clip securely into the keyboard plate (see Fig. 11), the design reduces the rate of change for the slope. Referring to Figs. 9 and 10, the slope of the keyboard curvature ensures standard keycaps and Cherry Mx keycaps have enough key clearance when pressed.
[0066] The majority of gamers prefer standard keycaps due to their large surface area.
The QWERTY layout with Choc or Mx keys are used in the gaming market. Mx keys are the most popular in E-Sports.
[0067] Referring to Fig. 21, by raising the space bar, users gain significant advantages in games where the space bar is heavily used. For example, the number keys are some of the most heavily used keys across many game genres. Depending on the size of the user’s hand, quickly alternating between the space bar and other keys requires a small jump, or stretching of the fingers.
[0068] For the average person without the muscle memory of a competitive gamer on a standard gaming keyboard with a QWERTY layout, the possibility of incorrectly pressing keys increases every time the hand must lift from the keyboard.
[0069] In one embodiment, the thumb is already in position at the spacebar when reaching to, for example, the number one key. This is true for the mirror on the right half of the keyboard.
[0070] Referring to Figs 4, 5, 9 and 10, the keyboard uses a board-board connector that links the flexible PCB 150, 152 (tan color in figures) for the key switches and rigid “main” PCB 154, 156 (green color in figures). An ergonomic curvature that supports mechanical switches will contain various slopes. A single PCB layer cannot accommodate various slopes without forcefully bending the PCB and components. By designing the PCB 150, 152 with individual rows 160, 162, 164, 166, 168, 170, 172, 174, 176, 178 as shown in Figs. 12 and 13, the amount of resistance of the PCB against the curvature is minimized.
[0071] Referring to Fig. 4, in one embodiment, the keyboard is designed for injection molding, using a ribbed skeleton 180 integrated onto the top enclosure. Having a unibody support structure on the top layer of the enclosure reduces the chances of error and eliminates the need for a skeleton mold. [0072] The keyboard may include one or more sensing units. Referring to Fig. 3, in one embodiment, a sensing unit (114A, 114B) may be provided on housings 102 and 104. The sensing unit (114A, 114B) senses user presence on the keyboard 100 and sends a signal to the control unit. The control unit enables the automatic shut on/off of the keyboard 100. More specifically, when the sensing unit (114A, 114B) detects that there is no motion performed by the user on the keyboard 100, the keyboard 100 goes into sleep mode or shuts off and thereby saves the power consumption of the keyboard 100. If the sensing unit (114A, 114B) detects the presence of the user’s motion on the keyboard, the sensing unit (114A, 114B) sends a signal to the control unit which activates the keyboard 100 for use. In one embodiment, the sensing unit may sense within a 30-degree angle of the sensing unit.
[0073] The keyboard may include one or more batteries. Referring to Fig. 1, in one embodiment, the battery may share the same USB-C ports 116A, 116B used to create a serial connection between the keyboard and the device.
[0074] The keyboard may use a 1800mAh - 2000mAh LIPO flat pack battery. Each half of the keyboard operated independently from the other half. In one embodiment, when the keyboard is off and connected to a USB-C power source, the keyboard will charge at lOOOMah and will reach 100% charge in approximately four hours. When the keyboard is operational and connected to a USB-C power source, the keyboard will charge at 500Mah and will reach 100% charge in approximately twelve hours.
[0075] Referring to Figs. 9, 10, and 14, in one embodiment, the first housing 102 and second housing 104 may be electrically connected with a four pin spring connector 182. [0076] The firmware implements a priority queue-like data structure that enables intelligent protocol by determining a connection using serial, Bluetooth LE, and 2.4Ghz Bluetooth LE without explicit user interaction. Each half of the keyboard and the dongle will be making decisions until it actually connects to another device.
[0077] In one embodiment, the method to establish a connection using a priority queue with its host device is described below and in Figs. 18 and 19.
1. A device which powers on will first check if it has an active USB connection to a host.
2. A keyboard half will determine whether it has a wired connection to the other keyboard half.
3. If there is no wired connection to another half, the next step for a keyboard half is to try to establish a wireless connection to the other half of the keyboard. 4. If the halves are paired with one another (either wired or wirelessly), they elect a “main controller” - whichever half of the keyboard has a USB connection to host. If BOTH halves of the keyboard have a USB connection to a host, the election is arbitrary. If NEITHER half of the keyboard has a USB connection, then proceed to the “wireless connection to host” steps below starting at step 8.
5. If there is a host connection and the halves of the keyboard are paired, then the connection is completed.
6. If there is a host connection but the halves of the keyboard are NOT paired, then each keyboard half acts independently until a pairing is created.
7. Each half of the keyboard tries to make a connection to the dongle it’s configured for. If a connection is made to the dongle, whichever half makes the connection first is elected “main controller.” If the other half is not connected (wired or wireless), then each keyboard half acts independently until a pairing is created.
8. Each half tries to connect to any Bluetooth devices it knows about. If a connection is made, the first half to make the connection is elected “main controller.” If the other half is not connected, then each keyboard half acts independently.
9. If the keyboard arrives at this step, then no connections have been made.
[0078] Referring to Fig. 21, in one embodiment, the keyboard may have a topography which has many heights and angles. The center of the keyboard nearest to the user may be highest point on the keyboard. Thus, the Space bars or keys may be the highest points on the keyboard as shown in Figs. 27 and 28. Figs. 23-43 show the height in millimeters of the center of each key relative to the height of the center of the right Space key. The right Space key is assigned a height of 0.00. The other keys are assigned a height relative to the right Space key. For example, the left Space bar has a height of 0.91 mm which means that the center of the left Space bar is 0.91 mm lower than the center of the right space key.
[0079] Referring to Figs. 21 and 27 and as noted above, the highest points on the keyboard are the Space bars. Moving to the right of the Space bars, the keyboard angles downward until it reaches a valley and then moves upward towards the end of the keyboard as shown in Fig. 27. The profile is similar to the left of the Space bars. Other rows of keys show similar profiles as shown in Figs. 23-26.
[0080] The keyboard also slopes downward away from the user. Referring to Figs. 21 and 28, the highest point on the keyboard is the right Space bar. Moving away from the user, the keyboard angles downward until it reaches a valley and then moves upward toward the rear of the keyboard as shown in Fig. 28. Other columns of keys show similar profiles as shown in Figs. 29-43.
[0081] Thus, the keyboard has a compound slope. The keyboard slopes downward to the right and also slopes to the rear until it reaches a valley and then slopes upward. Similarly, the keyboard slopes downward to the left and also slopes to the rear until it reaches a valley and then slopes upward.
[0082] In another embodiment, the keyboard may not have a valley and instead the slope continues toward the edges of the keyboard. In yet another embodiment, the keyboard may reach a valley, but the slope remains substantially flat after the valley toward the edges of the keyboard.
[0083] Referring to Figs. 44-65, the keys may be positioned at various angles relative to the vertical to correspond to the slope. For example, referring to Fig. 49, the angle of the right Space key is 4 degrees and the key to the right of right of the Space key (for example, the Alt key) is 6.4 degrees. Moving to the right, the angles become less, then the angles become almost vertical, and then the angles increase in the other direction as the upper surface formed by the keys moves toward the edge of the keyboard. These angles also correspond to the slope of the upper surface formed by the keys. Other rows of keys show similar angles and profiles as shown Figs. 45-48.
[0084] Referring to Figs. 50-65, the keys may be positioned at various angles relative to the vertical to correspond to the slope. For example, referring to Fig. 51, the angle of the right Space key is 2.1 degrees and the key to the left of the right Space key (for example, the N key) is 5.0 degrees. Moving to the left (away from the user), the angle decreases and then the angle increases in the other direction as the upper surface formed by the keys moves toward the edge of the keyboard. Other rows of keys show similar angles and profiles as shown Figs. 50 and 52-65.
[0085] Figs. 66-69 show another embodiment of the keyboard.
[0086] Figs. 70-71 show another embodiment of the keyboard wherein the keyboard is a single unit. The keyboard does not separate into right and left portions.
[0087] Figs. 72-134 show other embodiments of the keyboard with different layouts of the keys and different topographies of the keyboard.
[0088] Various modifications to these embodiments are apparent to those skilled in the art, from the description and the accompanying drawings. The principles associated with the various embodiments described herein may be applied to other embodiments. Therefore, the description is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown along with the accompanying drawings but is to be providing broadest scope consistent with the principles and the novel and inventive features disclosed or suggested herein. Accordingly, the invention is anticipated to hold on to all other such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the present invention and appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:
1. A keyboard comprising: a housing, the housing includes a plurality of keys: the housing has a front portion which is located near the user; the housing has a rear portion which is located further away from the user than the front portion; the housing has a right portion which is near the right hand of the user; the housing has a left portion which is located near the left hand of the user; the front portion has a first height, the rear portion has a second height, the first height is greater than the second height, the housing decreases in height in the direction from the first height to the second height.
2. The keyboard as in claim 1, wherein the right portion has a third height, the left portion has a fourth height, the first height is greater than the third height, the housing decreases in height in the direction from the first height to the third height.
3. The keyboard as in claim 2, wherein the left portion has a fourth height, the first height is greater than the fourth height, the housing decreases in height in the direction from the first height to the fourth height.
4. The keyboard as in claim 1, wherein the decrease in height from the first height to the second height forms a first slope.
5. The keyboard as in claim 2, wherein the decrease in height from the first height to the third height forms a second slope.
6. The keyboard as in claim 1, wherein one or more keys are at an angle relative to vertical.
7. The keyboard as in claim 1, wherein the keyboard is connected to a device through a wired or wireless connection.
8. The keyboard as in claim 1, wherein the keyboard includes one or more mechanical switches for the keys.
9. The keyboard as in claim 1, wherein the keyboard includes a sensing unit to sense the presence of a user.
10. The keyboard as in claim 1, wherein the keyboard includes a light source to light one or more keys.
11. The keyboard as in claim 1, wherein the keyboard includes a printed circuit board, the printed circuit board follows the shape of the change in height from the first height to the second height.
12. The keyboard as in claim 11, wherein the printed circuit board has two or more rows.
13. The keyboard as in claim 1, wherein the keyboard includes a rotary knob.
14. The keyboard as in claim 1, wherein the right portion is not detachable from the left portion.
15. The keyboard as in claim 1, wherein the right portion is detachable from the left portion.
16. The keyboard as in claim 15 wherein the right portion is detectable from the left portion with a connection system.
17. The keyboard as in claim 16, wherein the connection system is one of a pin connection, a magnetic connection, a pivotal connection, a spring connection, a hinge connection, or a sliding connection.
18. The keyboard as in claim 15, wherein the right portion includes a first electrical connector, the left portion includes a second electrical connector, the first electrical connector mates with the second electrical connector when the right portion and the second portion are attached.
19. The keyboard as in claim 1, wherein the keyboard includes a flexible printed circuit board and a rigid printed circuit board.
20. The keyboard as in claim 1, wherein the keyboard includes a battery and a charging port.
PCT/US2022/021979 2021-03-26 2022-03-25 Computer keyboard WO2022204531A1 (en)

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US63/166,888 2021-03-26

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CN209199058U (en) * 2019-01-22 2019-08-02 四川信息职业技术学院(广元无线电技工学校) A kind of computer keyboard carrying out bending fold

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US5689253A (en) * 1991-04-10 1997-11-18 Kinesis Corporation Ergonomic keyboard apparatus
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