Computer keyboard systems and methods for determining excessive key stroke force
US5982357A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 12, 1997 |
| Grant date | Nov 9, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 12, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H2221/064
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Computer keyboard systems and methods of determining excessive keystroke force or overpressure are described. A computer keyboard system 10 is illustrated having a keyboard array of keys 14. Individual keys 14 are capable of being reciprocated through a keystroke range which comprises an undepressed position and an actuation position. The keystroke range may also include an overtravel subrange. Individual keys 14 are operatively connected with individual keyswitches 32 which are activated thereby for providing informational signals to a keyboard microprocessor 54, 56. The microprocessor is configured to determine a keyswitch closure duration value and compare that value with a predetermined threshold duration value. If the closure duration value is greater than the predetermined threshold duration value, then an overpressure signal is produced which enables a sensory warning device 50, 52 to warn the keyboard operator that excessive force has been applied.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.