Adjustable data entry keyboard
US5456542A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 11, 1993 |
| Grant date | Oct 10, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 11, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H2223/05
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An integrated adjustable data entry keyboard. A divided keyboard arrangement comprises first key field and second key fields pivotably mounted upon a stationary base. The first and second key fields substantially comprise a keyboard arrangement. A space bar is separately attached to the base and occupies a lower keyboard region centrally disposed between the first and second key fields. The space bar is enlarged so as to remain within the radius of a user's thumb's "strike zone" when a user adjusts the first and second key fields. A synchronizing coupling means may be employed to ensure complimentary movement of the first key field relative to the second key field and thereby relative to the user's hands and wrists, even if only one of the individual key fields is pivoted. Compliantly mounted detachable palm rests may be attached to each of the first and second key fields to provide substantially integrated palm and hand support for the user throughout the range of motion of the key fields, thereby increasing the user's comfort.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.