Talking multi-surface keyboard

Abstract

An advanced portable keyboard comprising of a method of providing an interface for receiving contact information indicative of points of contact between parts of an operator's hand and one or a plurality of touch-sensitive pads built on the front surface, one or a plurality of back surfaces, and edges, interacting with one or a plurality of computers or computer-driven appliances.A mechanism mapping a plurality of interface elements onto touch-sensitive pads and static keys, each element corresponding to a key on a computer keyboard, each element being associated with one of the fingers of the operator, each element is mapped recurrently and dynamically, and activated by respective finger.A mechanism to read and / or pronounces letters, words, errors, actions, transcribe voice to text, and to switch touch pads into mouse pads at different operational modes, thus, providing faster speed, healthier posture, and greater efficiency.

Description

[0001]This application claims the benefit of PPA Ser. No. 61 / 789,573 filed 2013 Mar. 15 by the present inventors, which is incorporated by reference.BACKGROUNDPrior Art[0002]The following is a tabulation of some prior art that presently appear relevant:U.S. PatentPatent NumberKind CodeFiling DatePatenteeUS20130275907A12011 Oct. 14Hannes Lau andChristian SaxUS20070036603A12004 Sep. 22Marek Swoboda[0003]Smart phones are being increasingly used for sending text messages either through text messaging, email, or alternative methods. However, in most cases the texting interface is either limited to a miniaturized keyboard or a soft keyboard. In either case users are limited to using two thumbs when entering text. This limitation decreases typing speed significantly.[0004]There are many different forms of computer keyboards for computers and computer-driven appliances, including those with static hard keys, static soft keys, and dynamically mapped soft keys on a touch-sensitive surface.[00...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a portable keyboard that provides faster, more efficient, and mobile functionality for computer or mobile devices. The keyboard features dynamically mapped keys on the front, top, and edges of the keyboard that can be used to transcribe voice and computer commands. The keyboard also includes a touch screen and speakers for improved user experience. The keyboard can be attached to a mobile device and includes adjustable legs for comfortable use. The patent also describes various methods and programs for customizing and improving the functionality of the keyboard. The technical effects of the patent include increased speed, efficiency, and mobility of a portable keyboard for computer or mobile devices.

Problems solved by technology

However, in most cases the texting interface is either limited to a miniaturized keyboard or a soft keyboard.

In either case users are limited to using two thumbs when entering text.

This limitation decreases typing speed significantly.

When using either of the keyboards with mechanical keys or with static soft keys, our fingers have to conform to the position of the keys; keys are not customizable to the posture of our fingers.

Keyboards with static keys can't be customized to individuals' needs.

These types of keyboards put stress on the wrists of the operator.

This limitation squeezes the median nerve which may lead to developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

This limitation prevents proper use of the top surface.

For example, a display screen can't be efficiently used to show entered text or display a running program.

Activating keys mounted on the left and right edges are not as comfortable as if they were mounted and activated on the front surface.

I have found that keyboards with keys on the back where the back and the front surfaces are parallel with each other are harder to use than if the two surfaces were in an angle.

On the other hand, keyboards with dynamically mapped invisible soft keys can't be used without an external monitor.

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