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Ergonomic keyboard for a portable computer and methods of operation and manufacture therefor

  • US 5,717,431 A
  • Filed: 11/08/1996
  • Issued: 02/10/1998
  • Est. Priority Date: 01/05/1996
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A portable computer, comprising:

  • a first chassis portion hingedly coupled to a second chassis portion by first and second bulkheads to allow relative rotation between a closed position wherein said first and second chassis portions substantially overlay one another to enclose interior surfaces thereof and an open position wherein said first chassis portion is rotated away from said second chassis portion to expose said interior surfaces thereof;

    a display screen associated with said first chassis portion;

    data processing and storage circuitry contained within said second chassis portion and coupled to said display screen via a cable located proximate a hinge structure coupling said first and second chassis portions; and

    a keyboard coupled to said second chassis portion and said data processing and storage circuitry and including;

    a first keyboard portion pivotally coupled to a first location on said second chassis portion for rotation relative thereto, said first keyboard portion supporting a first plurality of keys aligned along a first axis,a second keyboard portion pivotally coupled to a second location on said chassis for rotation relative thereto, said second keyboard portion supporting a second plurality of keys aligned along a second axis, anda baseplate having a plurality of peripheral tabs aligning with corresponding slots formed in said second chassis portion, said first and second keyboard portions coupled to said baseplate, said baseplate forming a support for said first and second keyboard portions, said tabs and said slots allowing said baseplate and said second chassis portion to form a rigid structure.

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