Apparatus And Method For Generating Data Signals

Abstract

An ergonomic apparatus for generating data signals that may be indicative of alphanumeric characters for use with an electronic device or system such as a computer or electric typewriter, for example. The apparatus may be configured in accordance with ergonomic principles and use one or two hands to generate the data signals. The apparatus may include a set of domes that are shaped and contoured to conform to the shape of hands in a relaxed state and to distribute pressures across the splayed underside of the user's hand. Each dome may be capable of movement in a plurality of directions extending radially from a home position to generate the data signal or a portion of the data signal. The two-handed implementation disclosed utilizes input movements that enable keystroke actuation via only slight arm or hand movement, no finger movement being required. A keyboard layout may be used with the domes to associate movement of each dome with an alphanumeric layout of characters on a conventional keyboard such as a QWERTY keyboard layout. Dome movement may also be associated with the relative location of alphanumeric characters on an associated keyboard and the repsective relative frequency of use of an alphanumeric character to be produced. Hand-held embodiments of the apparatus are provided that may be used with portable or other similar electronic devices.

Description

SPECIFIC DATA RELATED TO THE INVENTION [0001] This application is a division of U.S. continuation-in-part application Ser. No. 10 / 609,168, filed Jun. 27, 2003, which claims the benefit of pending U.S. application Ser. No. 09 / 993,260 filed Nov. 14, 2001, which claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 60 / 248,472 filed Nov. 14, 2000 which are incorporated in their entirety herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to a human-computer interface for data entry, and more particularly, to a device that is ergonomically designed with reference to the architecture and functions of the human hand, wrist, and arm for generating data signals and / or providing data input to a computing device. [0003] The development of ergonomically designed keyboards has resulted from an increased awareness and identification of physical problems associated with the use of conventional typewriter-like keyboards. An ergonomically designed keyboard attempts ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides an ergonomic human-computer interface apparatus that reduces the risk of keyboard-related injuries by overuse. The apparatus includes a base and two palm engaging supports that fit close to the user's hands in a relaxed position. The apparatus also includes movable means for sensing the position or movement of the user's hands or fingers. The sensed signals are translated into a unique \"chording\" system that allows for the generation of different alphanumeric characters or functions. The apparatus requires no significant hand or wrist motion and only requires slight arm or hand movement. The use of the apparatus requires minimal shifting of the hand from a rest position and does not require wrist rotation. The left and right hand domes may have different switches to activate different keyboard functions."

Problems solved by technology

Various annoying and debilitating muscular syndromes have accompanied this expansion, resulting from the repetitive and fatiguing hand, wrist, and finger motions that are required in the use of conventional typewriter like keyboards.

These injuries, one widely publicized of which is carpal tunnel syndrome, translate not only into pain and potential disability for the affected users, but also into significant loss of money, time, and productivity for businesses.

Force is related to the musculature and conformation of the fingers and hands, which place limitations on their ability to perform a given task.

While Dolenc addresses the issue of minimizing hand motion, the disclosed system does not appreciably contribute to minimizing finger motion, or to related wrist motion.

In addition, this device does not address the angular and topographical distinctions for individual keys, such as those described in the Einbinder patent.

Prior art devices in general demand considerable manual and digital dexterity to operate, making them relatively difficult for extended usage and a portion of the population to utilize efficiently and effectively.

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