Computer keyboard key identifiers

• US 20030142079A1
• Filed: 01/25/2002
• Published: 07/31/2003
• Est. Priority Date: 01/25/2002
• Status: Abandoned Application

• Current Assignee: Seventh Day Skystorm Incorporated
• Original Assignee: Seventh Day Skystorm Incorporated
• Inventors: Dunker, Garrett Storm
• Application Number:
  US09/683,616
• Publication Number:
  US 20030142079A1
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 345/168
• CPC Class Codes: G06F 1/1616 with folding flat displays, e.g. laptop computers or notebooks having a clamshell configuration, with body parts pivoting to an open position around an axis parallel to the plane they define in closed position
• CPC Class Codes: G06F 1/1662 Details related to the integrated keyboard

Abstract

The invention embodies touch identification techniques to aid in recognizing computer keyboard keys. This method of key signing will reduce normal typing time for keyboarders by eliminating the need for visual confirmation of hard to reach keys or troublesome keys. According to the invention, the keys are identified using touch sensitive attributes. These include a difference in texture, elevation, material, or temperature, a vibration sensor, a plurality or combination of these, and any other method that alters keyboard key properties for the purpose of touch recognition. The identifier must have a contrast of physical properties significant enough such that the key can be recognized without looking.

Claims

1. A human computer keyboard interface device comprising:

(a) a plurality of input keys,

(b) an indicator for identification means for one or more of said keys, whereby said indicator identifies said keys through a means of touch sensitivity,

(c) a placement of said indicator or indicators such that typing efficiency is optimized.

2. An indicator for identifying keyboard keys of claim 1 using touch sensitivity by means of key alteration comprising:

(a) a difference in elevation on all or part of said keys,

(b) a difference in texture on all or part of said keys,

(c) a difference in material on all or part of said keys,

(d) a difference in temperature on all or part of said keys,

(e) a sensor activated key,

where said sensor initiates a vibration of said key when touched by a keyboarder,

(f) any plurality of said elevations, said textures, said materials, said temperatures, or said sensors, or

(g) any combination of said elevations, said textures, said materials, said temperatures, or said sensors.

3. An indicator for identifying keyboard keys of claim 1 using touch sensitivity by means of keyboard alteration comprising a wall that partly or entirely surrounds said key.