Keyboard with integrated pointer control function
First Claim
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1. A keyboard comprising:
- a plurality of keys, wherein said plurality of keys includes a plurality of key areas and a plurality of key sensors;
a mode switch for switching said keyboard from a typing mode, in which said plurality of key sensors generates normal keyboard signals including alphanumeric signals when key areas are contacted, to a pointing mode, in which each of said plurality of key sensors generates a corresponding pointer movement signal when a corresponding key area is contacted; and
a reference point, wherein said pointer movement signal provides pointer direction and pointer speed of a pointer based on a key direction and key distance of said corresponding key area relative to said reference point.
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Abstract
A dual-function keyboard with two operational modes, a typing mode and a pointing mode. In the typing mode, each visible key functions as in a standard keyboard. In the pointing mode, all the keys function as pointer controllers. The keyboard also employs a novel “one-hot-encoding” circuitry that simplifies the wiring while allowing digital detection of any number of keys that are simultaneously depressed. The keyboard may be made of flexible materials and may be rolled-up or folded for easy transportation.
40 Citations
21 Claims
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1. A keyboard comprising:
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a plurality of keys, wherein said plurality of keys includes a plurality of key areas and a plurality of key sensors; a mode switch for switching said keyboard from a typing mode, in which said plurality of key sensors generates normal keyboard signals including alphanumeric signals when key areas are contacted, to a pointing mode, in which each of said plurality of key sensors generates a corresponding pointer movement signal when a corresponding key area is contacted; and a reference point, wherein said pointer movement signal provides pointer direction and pointer speed of a pointer based on a key direction and key distance of said corresponding key area relative to said reference point. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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11. A keyboard comprising:
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a surface layer having a top side; a plurality of visible keys comprising a plurality of marked key areas on said top side; a plurality of hidden keys comprising a plurality of unmarked key areas on said top side; a plurality of key sensors proximally located under marked and unmarked key areas on said top side that generate signals; and a mode switch for switching said keyboard from a typing mode, in which key sensors associated with said plurality of visible keys generate normal keyboard signals including alphanumeric signals when corresponding marked key areas are contacted, to a pointing mode, in which at least one of said plurality of key sensors when actuated generates a corresponding pointer movement signal. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21)
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Specification