Key with selective symbol display and keyboard using such key
US4897651A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 15, 1986 |
| Grant date | Jan 30, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 15, 2006 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H2239/02
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The key comprises a movable part guided in a fixed support on a base plate and contacts which are closed when the key is depressed against the action of a return spring. The symbol associated with the key is displayed through a window in the key top by an LCD device with a matrix of display areas controlled by an integrated circuit bonded to the underside of the LCD device and fed with signals from the CPU via conductors which enable the integrated circuit to be programmed to define the symbol to be displayed, whereby the keys of a keyboard can be set to match the language currently being used. In an alternative embodiment the key is supported by a flat cable connected with an input circuit of the keyboard and the terminals of the LCD device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.