Multiple layout keyboard

Abstract

A keyboard with multiple layouts includes depressible keys. A light reflector is positioned below at least some of the depressible keys, and a light source is configured to emit light toward the light reflector. The light is irradiated on one of the multiple reflective surfaces of the light reflector and reflected toward the corresponding depressible key, and the light reflector is positioned below the depressible key to make a character or symbol appear on the surface of the depressible key. A switch allows a user to selectively control the characters or symbols that appear on the surface of the depressible key, thereby obtaining a more efficient input for multiple layouts with an improved user experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to keyboards. Background Art

[0002] Computer peripherals, such as keyboards, continue to expand functionality as user experience increases. For example, different types of hard keyboards and soft keyboards provide different functionality to users depending on specific applications, settings, etc. On a hard keyboard, each mechanically depressible key is associated with a specific user input, such as a specific character associated with the keyboard language. In the case where a user desires to change the layout of the keyboard (e.g., to switch between languages) such as to make the keys correspond to different letters, since the character imprints on each key are static, the user has to remember the reassigned keys or use a displayed wizard showing the new assignments of the hard keys. For example, a key layout in a different language is displayed, showing a new letter corresponding to each key, which may block other content displayed on the screen.

[0003] However, the physical keys and the letters displayed thereon remain unchanged, resulting in the user sometimes having to guess or otherwise remember new key assignments. Due to the tedious or cumbersome nature of having to continually determine the new assignments for each key, this can lead to confusion and adversely affect the overall user experience. Moreover, in many cases, users instead select multiple physical keyboards, each with a specific desired input configuration. For example, a user might switch between a keyboard that uses one language (e.g., US / ENG) and a keyboard that uses a second, different language (e.g., US / FIN or US / GRK), which can again be tedious and time consuming, thereby adversely affecting the user experience. Summary of the invention

[0004] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] A keyboard includes a plurality of depressible keys and a light reflector positioned below at least some of the plurality of depressible keys. The keyboard further includes a plurality of light sources configured to emit light toward the light reflector. The light is irradiated on one of the plurality of reflective surfaces of the light reflector, and the light reflector reflects the light irradiated on the reflective surface toward a corresponding key of the plurality of depressible keys, and the light reflector is positioned below the plurality of depressible keys so that characters or symbols appear on the surface of the plurality of depressible keys. The keyboard further includes a switch configured to control selectively enabling each of the plurality of light sources to change the characters or symbols appearing on the surface of the plurality of keys.

[0006] Many of the accompanying features will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The present specification will be better understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0008] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a system with a keyboard according to an embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 illustrates a portion of a keyboard showing variable keys according to an embodiment;

[0010] Figure 3 illustrates a light guide arrangement with a light reflector according to an embodiment;

[0011] Figure 4 illustrates a light guide arrangement according to another embodiment;

[0012] Figure 5 A light reflector according to another embodiment is illustrated;

[0013] Figure 6 illustrates a multi-layout keyboard layout showing one layout according to an embodiment;

[0014] Figure 7 Explained Figure 6 Another layout of the multi-layout keyboard;

[0015] Figure 8 is a flow chart illustrating the operation of an alternative layout for a keyboard according to various embodiments; and

[0016] Fig. 9 A computing device according to an embodiment is illustrated as a functional block diagram.

[0017] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings, various systems are illustrated as schematic diagrams. The drawings may not be drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The computing devices and methods described herein are configured to allow for multiple different layouts on a keyboard. For example, the keyboard layout, and in particular the markings on the keys of a physical keyboard, can be changed to selectively show different input characters on the same key. Multiple character per key display allows a single keyboard to be used for multiple applications, such as for typing in multiple languages ​​(e.g., English and Finnish or Greek).

[0019] Specifically, some configurations described herein allow a user to switch between multiple keyboard layouts or arrangements on a single physical keyboard. As a result, a more efficient input that improves the user experience is generated. In this way, when the processor is programmed to perform the operations described herein for configuring the keyboard in a variety of different layouts or formats, the processor is used in an unconventional manner and allows for more efficient user input, especially across different languages ​​or applications. That is, various configurations include a keyboard with physical input buttons having multiple dynamically switchable layouts.

[0020] In one configuration, the light source can be controlled to illuminate the keys on the keyboard so that different characters or character portions appear on the surface of the keys. For example, using a reflector or prism assembly, one or more symbols or characters are selectively turned on and off by turning the light source on and off. The light source is controllable to be enabled and disabled, thereby causing different layouts to be presented by the keys of the keyboard, such as different languages, different symbols, etc. for a particular application.

[0021] Various examples of the present disclosure are applicable to various keyboards, keypads and similar devices. Here, the present disclosure is mainly proposed with respect to computer keyboards. This is an exemplary application and not a restrictive application. Cellular phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), remote controllers, mobile audio devices, and various other devices that use keys for input are contemplated to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Here, the term keyboard is also intended to cover keypads and similar devices.

[0022] Figure 1 1 is a schematic block diagram of a system 100 (e.g., a system with a multi-layout keyboard) deployed as a cloud service in this example. In some examples, the system 100 includes one or more computers 102 and includes storage 104 to store user input (e.g., input from physical key presses on a keyboard). It should be appreciated that other data (such as information to be displayed with the input) can be stored in the storage 104 and processed by the one or more computers 102 using the present disclosure.

[0023] In some examples, the system 100 is connected to one or more end-user computing devices, such as a desktop computer 106 having a keyboard 108 configured according to the present disclosure or a laptop computer 110 having a keyboard 108. Thus, it should be appreciated that the keyboard configurations disclosed herein are not limited to a particular computing environment, but can be used in different configurations based on the particular hardware.

[0024] The system 100 is shown connected to an end-user computing device via a computer network 112 (illustrated as the Internet). The system 100 receives input data from the end-user computing device, which in various examples includes switching between different layouts of the keyboard 108 (such as between different language layouts for users to type in different languages).

[0025] Various examples allow the keys of keyboard 108 to present different characters using controlled light steering for illuminating characters of a selected keyboard layout (e.g., an English keyboard layout, a Finnish keyboard layout, a Greek keyboard layout, etc.). For example, some or all of the mechanically depressible keys are each positioned on a reflector or prism to allow selective illumination of a portion of the reflector or prism (e.g., a reflective surface) to control the characters displayed on the corresponding key. In one example, each key is configured to allow reflected light forming a character corresponding to the selected keyboard layout to be displayed on the input surface of the key (e.g., a structured light pattern is displayed on the visible surface of the key).

[0026] In some examples, each key includes a keycap and is movably coupled to a mechanical underlying structure that guides the movement of the keycap (e.g., guides the reciprocating movement of the keycap and can provide a force response when the keycap is pressed, which causes the keycap to return to an unpressed state once released by the user), and also allows controllable light to define the characters being displayed on the keycap. In some examples, a selectively illuminated transparent material or a plastic material with optical printing forms the top surface of the keycap or key. However, it should be appreciated that any material capable of allowing the display of a light representation of a character (e.g., a letter or number) or symbol can be used. That is, the dynamic displayable output of the keyboard 108 as viewed on or through multiple keys of the keyboard 108 allows a single keyboard input device to be used in a user-friendly configuration instead of using multiple keyboards with different desired layouts.

[0027] In one example, a central viewing window or display portion of a keycap is aligned with a reflector or prism associated with the keycap. The mechanical substructure is configured to not optically obstruct viewing of variable characters generated by reflected light from the reflector or prism through the keycap. In some examples, the mechanical substructure is positioned outside the central display area on each key to provide such unobstructed viewing. For example, the mechanical substructure may surround but not intrude the display area, or may be positioned to the side of the display area. Thus, the configuration disclosed herein provides mechanical movement without obstructing variable input characters on the keys.

[0028] According to the present disclosure, a computer peripheral input device, particularly a keyboard, thereby provides a dynamic and changeable layout that can be viewed through mechanical depressible keys sitting on a reflector or prism. The mechanical key movement in the keyboard 108 provides a good tactile feel when typing, and the present disclosure allows the markings on the keys to be dynamic (for example, the QWERTY markings on a traditional English keyboard can be changed to Finnish character markings or Greek character markings to thereby change the layout of the keyboard 108). Accordingly, various examples include keyboards with dynamic keyboard layouts and good mechanical feel when typing.

[0029] As used herein, the terms "input" and "output" refer to the keyboard functionality of keyboard 108. When used in conjunction with a keyboard key, the term "input" generally refers to an input signal provided by keyboard 108 upon activation of a key. "Output" generally refers to a display provided for a key, such as a displayed character, legend, icon, or symbol indicating the function of the key.

[0030] In some examples, such as Figure 2 As indicated by the "Q", "W", "E", "R", "T", "Y", etc. on the keys 200 of the illustrated keyboard 108, the keyboard provides traditional English alphanumeric input capabilities for certain applications. It should be appreciated that for simplicity of illustration, Figure 2 Many of the keys in are shown without labels, however, labels or displays are typically included for each key. In addition, in addition to or in lieu of the "QWERTY" layout, the keys 200 of the keyboard may be configured differently to provide other inputs. For example, the keys may be assignable, i.e., dynamically changeable, to provide functionality for various languages ​​and alphabetic systems, and / or to activate other input commands for controlling the system 100. In some implementations, the key functions are dynamically changed, such as in response to changing operating contexts of software applications running on the system 100 or based on user input that switches between different available keyboard layouts or key representations. It should be understood that the keys in this example may be selectively depressible to generate any type of input signal for controlling a computing device.

[0031] The keyboard 108 is configured to provide a variety of displayable outputs. For example, using selective illumination on a reflector or prism, a key 108 with letters painted, printed or etched on the keycap surface, or a reflector or prism with letters painted, printed or etched on its surface, or a mask with letters painted, printed or etched on its surface, etc., is used to indicate the "Q", "W" and other functions of the key. This dynamic and selectable display capability facilitates the use of the keyboard 108 in a variety of different ways. For example, an English-based keyboard (layout) can be alternatively mapped to provide letters in alphabetical order rather than in the traditional "QWERTY" arrangement, or to provide letters for non-English languages, and the characters displayed for each key can be easily changed to reflect the different key assignments.

[0032] The displayed character capabilities contemplated herein are not limited to alphabetic systems, letters, numbers, symbols, etc. The characters provided need not be associated with the input functionality of the keyboard. For example, images may be provided for aesthetic purposes to personalize the user experience or to provide other types of output. The present disclosure encompasses key displays for any purpose.

[0033] Especially refer to Figure 3, the keyboard 108 includes a plurality of light sources 300 (e.g., light emitting diodes (LEDs)) optically coupled to corresponding keys 200 of the keyboard 108 to selectively control the characters to be illuminated for display on the keys 200. That is, the characters or other symbols appear on the keys 200. In the illustrated example, the keys 200 are positioned above a light reflector, which in this example is a prism 302 and has two reflective surfaces 304, which are opposite angled surfaces configured to reflect light 306 from the light sources 300 to the keys 200. For example, the two reflective surfaces 304 are configured (e.g., angled) to reflect the light 306 to a back reflective surface 308 of the keys 200.

[0034] It should be appreciated that in some examples, the material forming the key 200 and / or the back reflective surface 308 allows light to pass through it while preventing light from scattering within the material. In this way, a clear representation of the character or symbol is provided on the top surface of the key 200. For example, a mask that blocks the light escaping between the keys 200 is provided in some configurations. This increases the contrast between the displayed characters or symbols and the background formed by the keys 200. The mask can be provided by a separate mask material (which can be made of plastic, cardboard or metal or some other suitable material (which blocks the gap between the keys 200)) or by configuring the key 200 so that the key 200 blocks the gap (such as by overlapping the edges of the key 200 so that one key 200 passes under another key).

[0035] Thus, the keyboard 200 includes a plurality of keys 200 disposed above a light source 300 and optically coupled to the light source 300 using one or more prisms 302. It should be appreciated that more than one prism 302 may be associated with a single key 200, or that a plurality of keys 200 may be associated with a single prism 302. Additionally, while the prism 302 is illustrated as having two reflective surfaces 304 to allow at least two different characters to be displayed on the key 200, the prism 302 may have additional reflective surfaces 304 (e.g., three, four, five, or more reflective surfaces 304). It should be appreciated that other light reflectors or light guides may be used and configured to selectively direct or orient light that is structured to generate or cause a particular character, symbol, icon, etc., to be displayed on the key 200.

[0036] In operation, a switch 310 (which may be a hardware configuration switch or a software configuration switch) is coupled to each of the light sources 300 to selectively enable and disable the light sources 300. It should be appreciated that in some examples, a separate switch is coupled to each of the light sources 300. The switch 310 is operable to change the activation state of the light sources, i.e., to turn on one of the light sources 300 and turn off another of the light sources 300 (corresponding to a particular key 200) to selectively illuminate one of the reflective surfaces 304 so that reflected light having a light pattern (e.g., letters, symbols, icons, etc.) is directed toward the key 200. In the illustrated example, the light 306 passes through a corresponding mask 312 positioned between each of the light sources 300 and the prism 302 to generate a character on the key 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the characters or symbols are provided on the mask 312, which are Finnish letters. or semicolon symbol ";", and is configured as a transparent area of ​​the mask 312 (and the rest of the mask 312 is non-transparent). It should be appreciated that in the illustrated example, the light source 300a is turned on and the light source 300b is turned off, so that the Finnish is displayed on key 200. Thus, a plurality of selectable operation modes with different keyboard layouts are provided.

[0037] The mask 312 may be configured and formed in different ways to allow structured light to pass through it and be reflected by the prism 302. For example, the mask sheet may have a pattern corresponding to the desired letters or symbols etched thereon to allow light to pass through in the desired pattern to generate light structured to have letters or symbols (structured light pattern). It should be appreciated that various variations and modifications are contemplated. For example, the desired pattern may be etched directly or otherwise provided on the reflective surface 304 of the prism 302 so that the mask 312 is not used. In this configuration, the light 306 is reflected from the reflective surface 304 in a structured manner to create the desired characters or symbols.

[0038] The key 200 and the mask 312 can be constructed in various ways. In one example, the body of the key 200 is constructed of a substantially opaque material (such as dark plastic). The characters or symbols are formed at the portion of the key 200 that can transmit at least some light. These portions can be transparent or translucent as required. For example, a portion of the key 200 is formed by a light-transmitting material adapted to allow visible light to pass through. When illuminated from below by a light source 300 (e.g., a visible light source) that generates light 306 reflected by the prism 302, these portions will then display the characters or symbols.

[0039] In some examples, the transparent portion of the key 200 or mask 312 is untinted. In other examples, a tinted material complementary to visible light is used, such as a blue light source and a translucent yellow material for the symbol or character portion of the mask 312. The yellow material filters most or all of the blue light. Another example includes a covering or coating for the fluorescent symbol of the mask 312 with a tinted filter layer.

[0040] It should be noted that the layout of light source 300 relative to key 200 can be customized according to the functionality of key 200 and can be balanced against cost and design factors. In some cases, light source 300 is positioned behind or below key 300 and adjacent to prism 302.

[0041] In an example for a smaller keypad (such as a cell phone or PDA), a single light bulb or LED may be used. Thus, a single pair of light sources 300 is sufficient for each key or row of keyboard 108.

[0042] In another example for a larger set of keys (such as a full-size conventional keyboard for a computer), multiple light sources 300 or wide-area light sources are used to provide uniform illumination across the keys 200. An exemplary wide-area light source suitable for use in keyboards and keypads is an LED array, but the present disclosure is not limited to a particular light source. For larger keyboards or keypads, two or more light sources allow for better control over the generated characters or symbols. It should be appreciated that additional configurations and combinations thereof are contemplated.

[0043] Other variations include Figure 4 The illustrated light configuration element 400 is selectively illuminated to generate a corresponding character or symbol on a portion of the key 200 (illustrated as the right and left sides). Figure 3 In the configuration of FIG. 1 , the light source 300 generates light that is reflected by the prism 302 toward the key 200. However, in this configuration, depending on which of the light sources 300 is turned on, the light passes through one of the light configuration elements 400, such as located at the bottom of the key 200. Thus, similar to Figure 3 , Finnish or a semicolon (;) is displayed on key 200 depending on which of the light configuration elements 400 the light passes through. Light configuration element 400 may be configured similarly to mask 312. For example, a transparent area of ​​light configuration element 400 may be configured or etched to have Finnish or semicolon (;), while the rest of the light configuration element 400 blocks light from passing through. A portion of the key 200 is then caused to display a corresponding character or symbol on the portion of the key above the illuminated one of the light configuration elements 400. It should be appreciated that additional light configuration elements 400 may be used to allow for the selective display of additional characters or symbols.

[0044] Other variations are also contemplated. For example, in some configurations, the light configuration element 400 forms part of the key 200 and is formed of a light-transmissive material adapted to fluoresce when excited by an invisible light source, such as an ultraviolet (UV) light source. Thus, when the UV light source is activated, the UV light will cause the corresponding character or symbol of the light configuration element 400 to fluoresce, thereby emitting visible light that will cause the character or symbol to be displayed to the user.

[0045] In some examples, the light configuration element 400 is untinted. In other examples, a tinted material complementary to visible light is used, such as a blue light source and a translucent yellow material for the symbol or character portion of the light configuration element 400. The yellow material filters most or all of the blue light. Another example includes a covering or coating for a fluorescent symbol of the light configuration element 400 with a tinted filter layer.

[0046] In yet another example, the key 200 has a light configuration element 400 that forms a character or symbol that is intended to fluoresce a material that itself fluoresces. One technique for achieving this configuration is to embed phosphors in a light-transmissive material and form the character or symbol from the material. In some examples, none of the materials used to form the symbol is fluorescent. Instead, a fluorescent material is placed on the character or symbol of the light configuration element 400 that is intended to be highlighted. When the UV light source causes the material to fluoresce, the emitted visible light will pass through the adjacent light-transmissive portion. The fluorescent material may cover the inner or outer surface of the light configuration element 400.

[0047] When using an overlay, filtering of visible light as discussed herein can be achieved in different ways. One example includes forming the symbol of a colored but non-fluorescent material so that the symbol itself filters complementary color light. Another example is to use a colored fluorescent material for the overlay. In this configuration, the overlay provides both filtering and fluorescence.

[0048] In one example, the key 200 is configured to limit the amount of ultraviolet light that escapes through the key 200. In addition to the mask described above, the key 200 can be configured to block or filter ultraviolet light. The opaque portion of the light configuration element 400 is constructed of a material that blocks ultraviolet rays. In one example, the translucent portion of the light configuration element 400 utilizes a material that filters ultraviolet light while allowing visible light to pass through. In another example, the light configuration element 400 utilizes a material that filters enough ultraviolet light to ensure that an unacceptable amount of light cannot pass through while allowing a sufficient amount of light to penetrate the material to excite the fluorescent material.

[0049] As another example, Figure 5 As shown, the prism 500 includes four reflective surfaces 502 (eg, a multi-faceted prism) that allow four different characters or symbols to be selectively displayed, rather than as shown in FIG. Figure 2The configuration shown provides two characters or symbols. That is, in this configuration, four characters ( A, I,;) are selectively displayed on key 200 using the same operations described herein with respect to other examples in which light is directed onto a prism and reflected onto key 200. It should be noted that these four characters can be generated using a mask separate from prism 500 or a mask etched on prism 500, as described in more detail herein. Moreover, prism 500 can be configured to generate characters on a central portion of key 200 or at an area (e.g., a quadrant) in keyboard 200 where key 200 is positioned above prism 500.

[0050] Thus, the key 200 can be configured differently to allow characters or symbols to be displayed thereon. In one example, the key 200 is disposed above the prism 302 or 500 (or other prisms or light reflectors / light guides) and optically coupled thereto as described herein. In some configurations, the key 200 is at least partially transparent or otherwise configured to allow selective display of different characters or symbols. For example, in some examples, the keycap for each key 200 has a central viewing window aligned with the associated prism 302 or 500. In this way, the structured light reflected toward the key 200 causes the corresponding character or symbol to appear on the top visible surface of the key 200.

[0051] It should be appreciated that different types of light sources may be used to illuminate a light reflector, such as prism 302 or 500. For example, any type of controllable light source, such as an LED or other light source, may be used in various examples to generate light that is reflected from a surface to key 200.

[0052] Thus, a single key set (e.g., a single physical keyboard) is adapted for use with multiple applications or layouts, such as keyboard layouts corresponding to different countries. Figure 2 , a plurality of characters or symbols that can be displayed using the prism 302 of 500 are shown for one of the keys 200. Specifically, the switchable display of the key characters or symbols is shown at times T0, T1, T2, and T3, respectively. It should be noted that the switching between characters or symbols can occur in different orders and the order illustrated is only exemplary.

[0053] It can be seen that the displayed character or symbol output associated with the key 200 is selectively changeable, for example to reflect an input command generated by pressing the key. However, as previously described, the viewable output provided by the keyboard 108 can take a form other than the display associated with each individual key and corresponding input functionality. It can be seen that in the illustrated example, the user is able to change the appearance of the physical keys 200 of the keyboard 108 to selectively display the following: Q,;, That is, the reflected light from the prism 302 or 500 shining on the key 200 makes the key 200 appear to have the selected character or symbol, which in some examples is based on the selected national keyboard layout. However, it should be appreciated that the characters or symbols that appear on the key 200 can be based on specific applications, input requirements, etc. and are not limited to different language keyboards.

[0054] It should also be appreciated that different mechanical structures and underlying structures can be used within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, any suitable structure that allows the pressing of key 200 and the display of characters or symbols can be used. Thus, any resilient member (e.g., a spring member), a bendable member, a deformable member, etc. can be used. In various examples, the underlying structure (including the base structure) is configured to not interfere with the display of characters or symbols. For example, the underlying structure is arranged to surround prism 302 or 500.

[0055] The present disclosure allows for a variety of different layouts using a single key set, i.e., a single physical keyboard. Thus, a multi-layout keyboard with keys that can be selectively changed to different formats (e.g., different languages) allows for simplified user input. For example, Figure 6 and 7 As shown, two different layouts 600 and 700 are illustrated for the keyboard 108. In the illustrated example, the layout 600 is an English QWERTY type layout, while the layout 700 is a Greek alphabet keyboard layout. The physical structure of the keyboard 108 is shown in FIG. Figure 6 and Figure 7 302 or 500), each of the physical keys 200 can selectively appear with letters of a different language using a light reflector (such as prism 302 or 500). As a result, the user-friendly feel of the physical keyboard is provided by the optional functionality of a soft keyboard or virtual keyboard that allows multiple input layouts (e.g., multiple language input) without switching between physical keyboards. It should be noted that if some keys do not have corresponding characters or symbols in different layouts (such as having fewer characters in layout 700 compared to layout 600), no characters or symbols are generated on some keys (e.g., blank keys because the corresponding light sources are disabled).

[0056] Thus, various examples may be used to provide multiple layouts or configurations with the same physical keyboard. Figure 8 A method 800 showing operations for an alternative layout of a keyboard according to various embodiments is illustrated. The operations illustrated in the flowcharts described herein may be performed in an order different from that shown, may include additional or fewer steps, and may be modified as desired or required. Additionally, one or more operations may be performed simultaneously, concurrently, or sequentially.

[0057] Referring to method 800, at 802, a keyboard receives a layout selection input from a user. For example, as described herein, a keyboard having a light reflector associated with a key can selectively display different characters or symbols for some or all keys. In some examples, the layout selection input is a user selection of one of a plurality of keyboard layouts using a switch, button, or other selectable element. For example, a user can switch between a plurality of different language keyboards using a physical switch (e.g., a sliding switch). It should be appreciated that in some examples, semi-automatic or automatic layout selection is performed, such as based on the language of the application, specific input requirements of the application, etc. That is, the keyboard layout selection is based on the language used to control the input of the computing device.

[0058] At 804, the light sources corresponding to the layout selection are enabled. For example, the light source 300 corresponding to the side (reflective surface 304) of the prism 302 having the corresponding characters of the selected layout is turned on (and all other light sources 300 corresponding to the prism 302 are turned off). In some examples, each of the reflective surfaces 304, i.e., each of the reflective sides of the prism, has a character (e.g., letter) or symbol corresponding to the selected language and for a particular key.

[0059] It is noted that each key may correspond to the same letter in each language, or different letters (such as based on a particular language layout) may correspond to different keys (e.g., non-English letters corresponding to English letters on different keys in a non-QWERTY keyboard). Thus, at 804, the light source 300 for each key having a changeable displayed character or symbol is selectively activated (turned on) to cause the appropriate character or symbol to appear on the physical key, such as for the selected language. The keys may be configured in different ways as described herein to allow the displayed characters or symbols to be changed.

[0060] At 808, a determination is made as to whether a new layout for the keyboard has been selected. For example, a determination is made as to whether the layout selection input has changed (such as to a different language keyboard layout) by toggling a layout switch (or switching applications). If a determination is not made that a new layout has been selected for the keyboard, then at 810, the key displaying the current character or symbol is maintained. That is, the enabled light source does not change.

[0061] If a determination is made that a new layout is selected, the light source corresponding to the layout selection is enabled at 804. That is, the current light source is disabled (turned off) and another light source is enabled (turned on). As a result, some or all of the keys of the keyboard are caused to display different characters or symbols.

[0062] Thus, in some examples, method 800 allows for multiple layout keyboards using a single physical keyboard.

[0063] Exemplary Operating Environment

[0064] The present disclosure may be used in accordance with Fig. 9 900 in the functional block diagram 900. In one example, the components of the computing device 902 may be implemented as part of an electronic device according to one or more embodiments described in this specification. The computing device 902 includes one or more processors 904, which may be microprocessors, controllers, or any other suitable type of processor for processing computer-executable instructions to control the operation of an electronic device. Platform software including an operating system 906 or any other suitable platform software may be provided on the device 902 to enable application software 908 to be executed on the device. According to one embodiment, keyboard layout selection may be achieved by enabling or disabling one or more light sources 912 via a hardware switch 910 or a software switch.

[0065] Computer executable instructions may be provided using any computer readable medium accessible to computing device 902. Computer readable media may include, for example, computer storage media such as memory 914 and communication media. Computer storage media such as memory 914 include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, etc. Computer storage media include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD) or other optical storage, cassettes, tapes, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other non-transmission medium that can be used to store information for access by a computing device. In contrast, communication media can embody computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, etc. in modulated data signals such as carrier waves or other transmission mechanisms. As defined herein, computer storage media do not include communication media. Therefore, computer storage media themselves should not be understood as propagating signals. The propagated signal itself is not an example of a computer storage medium. Although computer storage media (memory 914) is shown as being within computing device 902, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the storage may be distributed or located remotely and accessed via a network or other communications link (eg, using communications interface 916).

[0066] The computing device 902 may include an input / output controller 918 configured to output information to one or more input devices 920 and output devices 922 (e.g., a display or speaker) that may be separate or integrated with the electronic device. The input / output controller 918 may also be configured to receive and process input from one or more input devices 920 (e.g., a keyboard, a microphone, or a touch pad). In one embodiment, the output device 922 may also serve as the input device 920. An example of such a device may be a touch-sensitive display. The input / output controller 918 may also output data to a device other than the output device 922 (e.g., a locally connected printing device). In some embodiments, a user may provide input to (all) the input device 920 and / or receive output from (all) the output device 922.

[0067] In some examples, computing device 902 detects voice input, user gestures, or other user actions and provides a natural user interface (NUI). This user input can be used to create electronic ink, view content, select ink controls, play videos with electronic ink overlays, and for other purposes. In some examples, input / output controller 918 outputs data to devices other than display devices (e.g., locally connected printing devices).

[0068] NUI technology enables users to interact with computing devices 902 in a natural way without artificial constraints imposed by input devices such as mice, keyboards, and remote controllers. Examples of NUI technology provided in some examples include, but are not limited to, those technologies that rely on voice and / or speech recognition, touch and / or stylus recognition (touch-sensitive display), gesture recognition on and near the screen, air gestures, head and eye tracking, voice and speech, vision, touch, gestures, and machine intelligence. Other examples of using NUI technology in some examples include intention and purpose understanding systems, motion gesture detection systems using depth cameras (such as stereo camera systems, infrared camera systems, red, green, and blue (rgb) camera systems, and combinations of these), using accelerometers / gyroscopes, facial recognition, three-dimensional (3D) displays, motion gesture detection of head, eyes, and gaze tracking, immersive augmented reality and virtual reality systems, and technologies for sensing brain activity using electric field sensing electrodes (electroencephalograms (EEGs) and related methods).

[0069] The functionality described herein may be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware logic components. According to an embodiment, computing device 902 is configured by program code that, when executed by processor(s) 904, performs various embodiments of the described operations and functionality. Alternatively or additionally, the functionality described herein may be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware logic components. For example and not limitation, illustrative types of hardware logic components that may be used include FPGAs, ASICs, ASSPs, SOCs, CPLDs, and GPUs.

[0070] At least some of the functionality of the various elements in the figures may be performed by other elements in the figures or entities not shown in the figures (eg, processors, web services, servers, applications, computing devices, etc.).

[0071] Although described in connection with an exemplary computing system environment, examples of the disclosure are capable of being implemented with numerous other general purpose or special purpose computing system environments, configurations, or devices.

[0072] Examples of known computing systems, environments, and / or configurations that may be applicable to various aspects of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to: mobile or portable computing devices (such as smartphones), personal computers, server computers, handheld devices (such as tablets) or laptops, multiprocessor systems, game consoles or controllers, microprocessor-based systems, set-top boxes, programmable consumer electronics, mobile phones, mobile computing and / or communication devices with wearable or accessory form factors (e.g., watches, glasses, headphones or earbuds), network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, distributed computing environments including any of the above systems or devices, and the like. In general, the present disclosure can be operated by any device having processing capabilities that enable it to execute instructions such as those described herein. Such a system or device can accept input from a user in any manner, including from an input device such as a keyboard or pointing device, through gesture input, proximity input (such as through hovering), and / or through voice input.

[0073] Each example of the present disclosure may be described in the general context of computer executable instructions (such as program modules) executed by one or more computers or other devices in software, firmware, hardware or a combination thereof. Computer executable instructions may be organized into one or more computer executable components or modules. In general, program modules include, but are not limited to, routines, programs, objects, components, and data structures that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. Any number of such components or modules and any organization thereof may be utilized to implement various aspects of the present disclosure. For example, various aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to specific computer executable instructions or specific components or modules illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described herein. Other examples of the present disclosure may include different computer executable instructions or components having more or less functions than those shown and described herein.

[0074] In examples involving a general-purpose computer, aspects of the disclosure transform the general-purpose computer into a special-purpose computing device when configured to execute the instructions described herein.

[0075] Other examples include:

[0076] A keyboard, comprising:

[0077] - Multiple depressible keys;

[0078] - a light reflector positioned below at least some of the plurality of depressible keys;

[0079] - a plurality of light sources configured to emit light toward a light reflector, the light impinging on one of a plurality of reflective surfaces of the light reflector, wherein the light reflector reflects the light impinging on the reflective surface toward a corresponding key of a plurality of depressible keys, the light reflector being positioned below the plurality of depressible keys so that the character or symbol is displayed

[0080] Now there are multiple depressible keys on the surface; and

[0081] - a switch configured to control selective activation of each of the plurality of light sources to change characters or symbols appearing on the surfaces of the plurality of keys.

[0082] Other examples include:

[0083] A keyboard, comprising:

[0084] - a plurality of depressible keys having variable characters or symbols for defining a plurality of different keyboard layouts;

[0085] - a plurality of light sources and corresponding light reflectors positioned below the plurality of depressible keys and selectively controllable to generate structured light for forming characters or symbols;

[0086] as well as

[0087] - a switch configured to receive user input to change between different keyboard layouts by changing an activation state of the plurality of light sources.

[0088] Other examples include:

[0089] A method for selecting a layout of a keyboard, the method comprising:

[0090] - receiving a layout selection input defining a layout for a keyboard having a plurality of depressible keys, the layout

[0091] Selecting and defining characters or symbols to be displayed on the plurality of depressible keys; and

[0092] - activating a light source located below the plurality of depressible keys and corresponding to a layout selection, characters or symbols corresponding to the layout selection being caused to be displayed on the plurality of keys by reflecting light from the light source to the plurality of depressible keys using a plurality of light reflectors.

[0093] As an alternative or in addition to other examples described herein, each example includes any combination of the following:

[0094] - wherein the light reflector comprises a prism.

[0095] - wherein the plurality of reflective surfaces of the prism each have a different one of the characters or symbols etched thereon.

[0096] - further comprising a mask between the plurality of light sources and the light reflector, the mask generating a structured light pattern for forming a character or symbol.

[0097] -Further includes a plurality of light configuration elements, which are on the bottom surface of the plurality of depressible keys and are configured to generate structured light for forming characters or symbols when light is irradiated thereon, and the characters or symbols are different for each of the light configuration elements on the bottom surface of the depressible keys.

[0098] - wherein the switch is configured to control display of a plurality of keyboard layouts by selectively enabling each of a plurality of light sources, wherein the plurality of keyboard layouts include different country keyboard layouts having letters corresponding to different languages ​​adopted by the different countries.

[0099] - wherein the plurality of light sources comprises separate light sources corresponding to and directing light to each of the different reflective surfaces of the prism.

[0100] - wherein the switch is a mechanical switch operable by a user to change the keyboard layout.

[0101] - wherein the plurality of different keyboard layouts comprises a plurality of different national keyboard layouts having different characters or symbols.

[0102] - wherein a plurality of light sources and corresponding light reflectors are positioned to illuminate the plurality of depressible keys so that characters or symbols appear along a portion of a top surface of the plurality of depressible keys.

[0103] - wherein a variable character or symbol appears along a same portion of a corresponding one of each of a plurality of depressible keys.

[0104] - wherein a variable character or symbol appears along a different portion of a corresponding one of each of a plurality of depressible keys.

[0105] - wherein the light reflector comprises prisms, each prism having a plurality of reflective surfaces for reflecting light from the plurality of light sources to a bottom surface of the plurality of depressible keys.

[0106] - further comprising a mask between the plurality of light sources and the corresponding light reflectors, the mask being configured to generate a structured light pattern corresponding to the variable character or symbol.

[0107] - wherein the mask between each of the plurality of light sources and the corresponding light reflector is different to generate different structured light patterns corresponding to different ones of the variable characters or symbols.

[0108] As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, any range or device value given herein may be expanded or altered without losing the effect sought.

[0109] Although the subject matter of the present invention is described in language specific to structural features and / or method actions, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or actions described above. Rather, the specific features and actions described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

[0110] It will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment or may relate to several embodiments. The embodiments are not limited to those embodiments that solve any or all of the problems set forth or those embodiments that have any or all of the benefits and advantages set forth. It will be further understood that reference to "an" item refers to one or more of those items.

[0111] The embodiments illustrated and described herein, as well as embodiments not specifically described herein but within the scope of aspects of the claims, constitute exemplary means for training a neural network. The illustrated one or more processors 904 together with computer program code stored in memory 914 constitute exemplary processing means for enabling switching between multiple keyboard layouts.

[0112] The term “comprising” is used in this specification to mean including the feature(s) or action(s) that follows thereafter, but does not exclude the existence of one or more additional features or actions.

[0113] In some examples, the operations illustrated in the various figures may be implemented as software instructions encoded on a computer-readable medium to be programmed or designed as hardware that performs the operations, or both. For example, aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented as a system on a chip or other circuit comprising a plurality of interconnected conductive elements.

[0114] The order of execution or completion of the operations in each example of the present disclosure illustrated and described herein is not necessary unless otherwise specified. That is, unless otherwise specified, the operations can be performed in any order, and each example of the present disclosure may include additional or fewer operations than the operations disclosed herein. For example, it is contemplated that performing or completing another operation before, simultaneously with, or after a certain operation is also within the scope of the various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0115] When introducing elements of aspects of the present disclosure or examples thereof, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to mean one or more of such elements. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may be present in addition to the listed elements. The term "exemplary" is intended to mean "an example of..." The phrase one or more of the following: "A, B, and C" means "at least one of A and / or at least one of B and / or at least one of C."

[0116] Having described various aspects of the disclosure in detail, it is apparent that various modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the various aspects of the disclosure as defined in the appended claims. Various changes may be made in the above constructions, products, and methods without departing from the scope of the various aspects of the disclosure, it being intended that all subject matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

1. A keyboard, comprising: Multiple pressable keys; a light reflector positioned below at least some of the plurality of depressible keys; a plurality of light sources configured to emit light toward the light reflector, the light impinging on one of a plurality of reflective surfaces of the light reflector, wherein the light reflector reflects the light impinging on the reflective surface toward corresponding keys of the plurality of depressible keys, the light reflector being positioned below the plurality of depressible keys so that characters or symbols appear on the surfaces of the plurality of depressible keys, wherein each reflective surface corresponds to illumination of a different character or symbol of the corresponding key; as well as A switch is configured to control selective activation of each of the plurality of light sources to change the characters or symbols appearing on the surfaces of the plurality of keys.

2. The keyboard as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The light reflector includes a prism.

3. The keyboard as claimed in claim 2, wherein: The plurality of reflective surfaces of the prism each have a different one of the characters or symbols etched thereon. 4 . The keyboard of claim 1 , further comprising a mask between the plurality of light sources and the light reflector, the mask generating a structured light pattern for forming the character or symbol.

5. The keyboard as described in claim 1 further includes a plurality of light configuration elements, which are on the bottom surface of the plurality of depressible keys and are configured to generate structured light for forming the characters or symbols when the light is irradiated thereon, and the characters or symbols are different for each of the light configuration elements on the bottom surface of the depressible keys.

6. The keyboard as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The switch is configured to control display of a plurality of keyboard layouts by selectively enabling each of the plurality of light sources, wherein the plurality of keyboard layouts include different country keyboard layouts having letters corresponding to different languages ​​adopted by the different countries.

7. The keyboard as claimed in claim 2, wherein: The plurality of light sources include separate light sources corresponding to and directing light to each of the different reflective surfaces of the prism.

8. A keyboard comprising: a plurality of depressible keys having changeable characters or symbols for defining a plurality of different keyboard layouts; a plurality of light sources and corresponding light reflectors positioned below the plurality of depressible keys and selectively controllable to generate structured light for forming the characters or symbols, wherein each light reflector has a plurality of reflective surfaces and each reflective surface corresponds to illumination of a different character or symbol of a corresponding key; as well as A switch is configured to receive user input to change between the different keyboard layouts by changing an activation state of the plurality of light sources.

9. The keyboard as claimed in claim 8, wherein: The switch is a mechanical switch operable by a user to change the keyboard layout.

10. The keyboard as claimed in claim 8, wherein: The plurality of different keyboard layouts include a plurality of different national keyboard layouts having different characters or symbols.

11. The keyboard of claim 8, wherein: The plurality of light sources and corresponding light reflectors are positioned to illuminate the plurality of depressible keys to cause the characters or symbols to appear along a portion of a top surface of the plurality of depressible keys.

12. The keyboard of claim 11, wherein: The variable character or symbol appears along a same portion of a corresponding one of each of the plurality of depressible keys.

13. The keyboard of claim 11, wherein: The variable character or symbol appears along a different portion of a corresponding one of each of the plurality of depressible keys.

14. The keyboard of claim 8, wherein: The light reflector includes prisms, each prism having a plurality of reflective surfaces for reflecting light from the plurality of light sources to a bottom surface of the plurality of depressible keys.

15. The keyboard of claim 14, further comprising a mask between the plurality of light sources and corresponding light reflectors, the mask being configured to generate a structured light pattern corresponding to the variable character or symbol.

16. The keyboard of claim 15, wherein: The mask between each of the plurality of light sources and the corresponding light reflector is different to generate different structured light patterns corresponding to different ones of the variable characters or symbols.

17. A method for selecting a layout of a keyboard, the method comprising: receiving a layout selection input defining a layout for a keyboard having a plurality of depressible keys, the layout selection defining characters or symbols to appear on the plurality of depressible keys; as well as A light source located below the plurality of depressible keys and corresponding to the layout selection is enabled, and the characters or symbols corresponding to the layout selection are caused to be displayed on the plurality of keys by reflecting light from the light source to the plurality of depressible keys using a plurality of light reflectors, wherein each light reflector has a plurality of reflective surfaces, and each reflective surface corresponds to the illumination of a different character or symbol of a corresponding key among the plurality of depressible keys.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein: Receiving a layout selection input includes receiving a user input at a physical switch of the keyboard.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein: The plurality of light reflectors include a plurality of prisms having a plurality of reflective surfaces.

20. The method of claim 17, further comprising a plurality of keyboard layouts corresponding to a plurality of layout selections, the plurality of different keyboard layouts comprising a plurality of different national keyboard layouts having different characters or symbols.

21. A computer-readable storage medium having instructions, which, when executed, cause a machine to perform the method of any one of claims 17-20.

22. A computer system comprising means for executing the method as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 20.

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