Ergonomic keyboard apparatus
First Claim
1. Keyboard apparatus, for providing input to a computer, comprising:
- means for supporting at least a first alphanumeric key array in a doubly-concave configuration to permit activation of all keys in said array by the digits of one hand and for supporting a plurality of auxiliary keys positioned to be activatable by the thumb of said one hand;
at least a first footpedal, coupled to one of said keyboard apparatus and said computer; and
rotatable key well means for permitting adjustment of the orientation of keys carried by said rotatable key well means.
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Abstract
A keyboard for use with a standard personal computer includes an alphanumeric key array having a plurality of alphanumeric keys arranged in a generally orthogonal, concave array. A home row of keys defines a reference position for the fingers of the operator. A liner array of function keys is provided and positioned above the reference position and tilted toward the operator. A generally orthogonal array of auxiliary keys is also positioned above the reference position. The array of auxiliary keys is rotated with respect to the reference position to accommodate the natural angle of the thumb of the operator to the index finger. A palm rest is provided for receiving the palm of the operator while the operator is manipulating the plurality of alphanumeric keys. The palm rest is positioned above the reference position defined by the home row so that during operation of the alphanumeric keys, the fingers of the operator extend downward from the palm rest in a natural curved manner.
206 Citations
18 Claims
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1. Keyboard apparatus, for providing input to a computer, comprising:
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means for supporting at least a first alphanumeric key array in a doubly-concave configuration to permit activation of all keys in said array by the digits of one hand and for supporting a plurality of auxiliary keys positioned to be activatable by the thumb of said one hand; at least a first footpedal, coupled to one of said keyboard apparatus and said computer; and rotatable key well means for permitting adjustment of the orientation of keys carried by said rotatable key well means. - View Dependent Claims (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18)
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2. A method for data input, comprising:
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providing a data input device having first and second palm rests, a key array with first and second keys constructed to move between first remote and second proximate positions remote from and proximate to the data input device, respectively, and a rotatable key well means for permitting adjustment of the orientation of keys carried by said rotatable key well means; supporting the hands of an operator with said first and second palm rests; and moving said first key to said second proximate position while maintaining said second key in said first remote position, said first key being vertically displaced from said second key.
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Specification