Keyboard with improved lateral region
US6712535B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 30, 2001 |
| Grant date | Mar 30, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 4, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F3/0213
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A keyboard having an input region that provides a set of input elements designed to complement a separate pointing device such as a computer mouse. These input elements enable both the dominant and non-dominant hand to work easily together to perform various functions, which in turn, makes “consumption” and “composition” tasks more efficient. The input region may be spaced laterally from the alphanumeric or “QWERTY” section of the keyboard. The elements include a scrolling member, first and second groups of keys, and an application switching device. The scrolling member may take the form of a rotatable member. The rotatable member may have an asymmetric outer profile and/or be frustum-shaped. The first group of keys preferably includes a Back key and a Forward key. The first group of keys and the scrolling member make performing “consumption” tasks more efficient. The second group of keys preferably includes a Cut key, a Copy key, and a Paste key. The application switching device is preferably configured to provide a command, when actuated, to move between open applications. The application switching device may be independently-actuab…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.