Separate keyboard and method for changing keyboard layout for each communication connection

Abstract

Disclosed are a detached keyboard and a method of changing a keyboard layout for each communication connection. The detached keyboard device includes a main keyboard unit wired or wirelessly connected to a digital processing device and a sub keyboard unit physically separated from the main keyboard unit and wired or wirelessly connected to the main keyboard unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a separate keyboard and a method for changing the keyboard layout for each communication connection. Background Technology

[0002] To improve user convenience and work efficiency, various digital processing devices are used, such as personal computers, tablets, laptops, and smartphones. These digital processing devices are connected to wired or wireless keyboards for data input.

[0003] With wired keyboards, the limited cable length can restrict users' freedom to move the keyboard and use it. To eliminate this inconvenience, wireless keyboards that utilize short-range wireless communication methods to wirelessly connect to digital processing devices have become widely used in recent years.

[0004] like Figure 1 As shown, unlike wired keyboards, wireless keyboards do not have cables for connection, but like wired keyboards, dozens of keys are arranged in rows and columns on a single board that extends a predetermined length.

[0005] The types of keys arranged include letter keys (including number keys and symbol keys), function keys (keys used to perform specific predefined functions, such as F1 to F12 keys), combination keys (e.g., keys such as the shift key, alt key, and control keys used to call special functions in combination with other keys), navigation keys (e.g., keys for moving the cursor, such as the page up key, page down key, arrow keys, etc.), special keys (e.g., keys that provide convenience when entering text, such as the insert key, backspace key, number lock key, caps lock key, Korean / English conversion key, etc.), and system command keys (e.g., keys that issue specific commands to the operating system, such as the escape key).

[0006] The layout of the wireless keyboard is such that special keys, navigation keys, and a numeric keypad occupy the right side of the wireless keyboard, while letter keys are mainly arranged on the left and middle sides.

[0007] For this reason, users must slightly bend both wrists to place designated fingers of the left and right hands on the reference positions of the character keys (i.e., S, D, F, J, K, and L keys). However, because the wrists cannot be fixed in a natural bend, this forced wrist-bending posture can lead to various ailments.

[0008] Furthermore, because traditional keyboards are separate from the mouse, in order to simultaneously manipulate the mouse pointer, users must move their hands from the keyboard to grip and manipulate the mouse, then place their hands back on the keyboard, and repeat these steps. During these steps, longer typing times can reduce user attention, and wrist and elbow strain can occur. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] The present invention aims to provide a separate keyboard and a method for changing the keyboard layout for each communication connection, so that the user can place the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit at the most comfortable wrist angle, and can minimize wrist movement during input by ergonomically arranging the keys and touchpad, thereby stabilizing the user's joint health and improving work efficiency.

[0011] The present invention also aims to provide a separate keyboard and a method for changing the keyboard layout for each communication connection, so that the user can use the main keyboard unit with one hand (one-handed mode) or use the main keyboard unit and sub-keyboard unit with both hands (two-handed mode), and can maximize user convenience by adaptively changing the keyboard layout in one-handed mode and two-handed mode.

[0012] The present invention also aims to provide a separate keyboard and a method for changing the keyboard layout, which ensures operational stability and user convenience by using a holding member to fix the keyboard arrangement selected by the user (i.e., the relative position and rotation angle of the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit).

[0013] The purposes other than those mentioned above will be easily understood through the following description.

[0014] Technical solution

[0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, a detachable keyboard device is provided. The detachable keyboard device may include a main keyboard unit wired or wirelessly connected to a digital processing device and a sub-keyboard unit physically separated from and wired or wirelessly connected to the main keyboard unit, wherein a keyboard layout for one-handed operation is applied when the main keyboard unit is connected to the digital processing device and the sub-keyboard unit is not connected to the digital processing device, and a keyboard layout for two-handed operation is applied to both the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit when both the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit are connected to the digital processing device.

[0016] When the main keyboard unit corresponds to the user's right hand, the keys of the main keyboard unit can be arranged to form multiple blocks, wherein the multiple blocks may include: a main block consisting of multiple keys; a first outer block consisting of multiple keys, the first outer block being arranged adjacent to the right side of the main block and positioned below it, closer to the user's side than the main block; a second outer block consisting of multiple keys, the second outer block being arranged adjacent to the right side of the first outer block and positioned below it relative to the first outer block; an inner block consisting of multiple keys, the inner block being arranged adjacent to the left side of the main block and positioned below it relative to the main block; and a lower block consisting of multiple keys, the lower block being positioned below the inner block and the main block, wherein the multiple keys corresponding to the movement path of the thumb can be arranged in a curved shape, and wherein the touchpad can be positioned below the main block and the first outer block and positioned to the left of the lower block.

[0017] When the sub-keyboard unit corresponds to the user's left hand, the keys and touchpad of the sub-keyboard unit can be arranged in a manner that mirrors the main keyboard unit.

[0018] An electronic paper display can be provided on the surface of each key to display the operation assigned to the corresponding key according to the keyboard layout of the application.

[0019] A display for showing the operation and setting status of the main keyboard unit or sub-keyboard unit can be provided in an area that does not interfere with the keys and touchpad.

[0020] The main keyboard unit can recognize changes in the relative contact positions of the user's fingers with the touchpad of the main keyboard unit and the touchpad of the sub-keyboard unit as manipulation gestures, and transmit the manipulation data to the digital processing device.

[0021] The selection and deselection information of the input selection keys and combination keys in either the main keyboard unit or the sub-keyboard unit can be preset to be shared with each other.

[0022] Fixed components can be used to fix the relative position and relative rotation angle of the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit.

[0023] The fixing member can be at least one of an arc-shaped rod and a hinged rod.

[0024] Each of the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit can be coupled to a fixing member to slide along a path formed in the fixing member to the position to be fixed.

[0025] The main keyboard unit can operate in advertising mode to establish a wireless connection with the sub-keyboard unit, and integrate the control data received from the sub-keyboard unit with the control data generated by the main keyboard unit for transmission to the digital processing device.

[0026] The main keyboard unit can receive the keyboard layout from the digital processing device and provide the keyboard layout to the sub-keyboard units.

[0027] According to another aspect of the invention, a computer program stored in a main keyboard unit is provided, the computer program being configured to execute a method for changing the keyboard layout for each communication connection of the keyboard device. The computer program instructs the main keyboard unit to be wired or wirelessly connected to a digital processing device; determines whether a sub-keyboard unit is connected; applies a keyboard layout for one-handed operation when no sub-keyboard unit is connected; and applies a keyboard layout for two-handed operation associated with the sub-keyboard unit when the sub-keyboard unit is connected.

[0028] Other aspects, features, and effects, besides those described above, will be illustrated by the following drawings, the scope of the patent claims, and specific embodiments of the invention.

[0029] Beneficial effects

[0030] The advantage of embodiments of the present invention is that users can place the main keyboard unit and sub-keyboard unit at the most comfortable wrist angle, and can minimize wrist movement during input by ergonomically arranging the keys and touchpad, thereby stabilizing user joint health and improving work efficiency.

[0031] An advantage of embodiments of the present invention is that the user can be made as convenient as possible by using the main keyboard unit with one hand (one-handed mode) or by using the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit with both hands (two-handed mode), and by adaptively changing the keyboard layout in one-handed mode and two-handed mode.

[0032] An advantage of embodiments of the present invention is that, by using fixing members to fix the keyboard arrangement selected by the user (i.e., the relative position and rotation angle of the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit), operational stability and user convenience can be ensured. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 Show a traditional keyboard;

[0034] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of a wireless keyboard device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 3 A first keyboard unit according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0036] Figure 4 A second keyboard unit according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0037] Figure 5The invention illustrates variations in keyboard layout for each communication connection of a wireless keyboard device according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0038] Figure 6 This illustrates different operations of each key according to the selection of each input selection key according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 A fixing member for fixing an arrangement of a wireless keyboard is shown according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0040] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for changing the keyboard layout for each communication connection of a wireless keyboard device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0041] This invention can be modified in various forms, and specific embodiments will be described and illustrated below. However, these embodiments are not intended to limit the invention, and it should be understood that the invention includes all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0042] The terminology used in the following description is intended to describe particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless they are clearly expressed to have different meanings. Terms such as “comprising” and “having” are intended to indicate the presence of the features, quantities, steps, actions, elements, components, or combinations thereof used in the following description, and should therefore be understood to not exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other different features, quantities, steps, actions, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0043] This specification will primarily describe embodiments of wireless connection between a digital processing device and a keyboard device; however, it should be understood that the digital processing device and the keyboard device can also be connected via a wired connection.

[0044] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of a wireless keyboard device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 A first keyboard unit according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 4 A second keyboard unit according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 5 This illustration shows variations in keyboard layout for each communication connection of a wireless keyboard device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 This illustrates different operations of each key according to the selection of each input selection key, based on an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 A fixing member for fixing a wireless keyboard arrangement is shown according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Reference Figure 2 A wireless keyboard device that wirelessly connects to a digital processing device to provide keystroke data may include a first keyboard unit 110 and a second keyboard unit 130. It should be understood that, as needed, the wireless keyboard device may consist of three or more keyboard units. For example, the digital processing device may be a computer, smartphone, or digital broadcasting terminal with communication capabilities configured to receive keystroke data from the wireless keyboard device.

[0046] When the wireless keyboard device according to one embodiment is wirelessly connected to a digital processing device, only one of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 is directly wirelessly connected to the digital processing device as a main keyboard unit, while the other can be connected to the main keyboard unit as a sub-keyboard unit via wireless or wired connection. The main keyboard unit transmits the control data received from the sub-keyboard unit to the digital processing device.

[0047] The first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 can be configured to operate independently in one-handed mode, and the keyboard device consisting of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 as a whole can be configured to operate in two-handed mode. The keyboard layout to be applied in each mode can be preset so that each keyboard unit can operate normally in either one-handed or two-handed mode.

[0048] Of course, depending on the user's operation, each of the main keyboard unit and sub-keyboard units can be set to operate in one-handed mode. For example, the main keyboard unit can use a multi-key layout, which is a standard E.161 keyboard operated in one-handed mode, while the sub-keyboard units can use a numeric keypad operated in one-handed mode.

[0049] In addition, in order to enable multiple keyboard units to be connected to a separate digital processing device so that multiple users can operate the digital processing device separately, each of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 can be wirelessly connected to the digital processing device separately.

[0050] In the following text, refer to Figures 2 to 9 Only the main keyboard unit is directly wirelessly connected to the digital processing device, and the sub-keyboard units are operated by connecting the sub-keyboard units to the main keyboard unit via wired or wireless connection.

[0051] The main keyboard unit, which is directly and wirelessly connected to the digital processing device, can be designated by the user as either the first keyboard unit 110 or the second keyboard unit 130, or the second keyboard unit 130 corresponding to the right hand can be designated as the main keyboard unit by default (see...). Figure 4 ).

[0052] Alternatively, when establishing communication between the digital processing device and the keyboard device, the keyboard unit that first communicates with the digital processing device in the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 of the keyboard device can be designated as the master keyboard unit. In this case, the master keyboard unit that first communicates with the digital processing device operates in an announcement mode, allowing another keyboard unit to access the master keyboard unit as a sub-keyboard unit. In this way, one keyboard unit directly connected to the digital processing device operates as the master keyboard unit, and the other keyboard unit connected to the master keyboard unit operates as a sub-keyboard unit. The master keyboard unit processes keystroke data (such as integration, modulation, etc.) received from the sub-keyboard unit for transmission to the digital processing device.

[0053] When the main keyboard unit is wirelessly connected only to the numeric processing device and the sub-keyboard units are not wirelessly connected to the main keyboard unit, the main keyboard unit can be configured to use a keyboard layout for one-handed mode. Subsequently, when the sub-keyboard units are wirelessly connected to the main keyboard unit, a keyboard layout for two-handed mode can be applied to both the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard units.

[0054] In the following text, for ease of explanation, the case where the second keyboard unit 130 corresponding to the right hand is designated as the main keyboard unit will be described.

[0055] The first keyboard unit 110 may include a first communication module 112, a first layout setting module 114, a first memory 116, a first controller 118, a first key button module 120, a first touchpad 122, and a first display 124.

[0056] Similarly, the second keyboard unit 130 may include a second communication module 132, a second layout setting module 134, a second memory 136, a second controller 138, a second button module 140, a second touchpad 142, and a second display 144.

[0057] The second communication module 132 and other modules in the second keyboard unit 130 correspond to the first communication module 112 and other modules in the first keyboard unit 110 to perform corresponding operations. Therefore, for ease of explanation, the second keyboard unit 130, which serves as the main keyboard unit, will be primarily described for each of the corresponding modules in the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130. However, when the operation of a module in the first keyboard unit 110 differs from that of its corresponding module in the second keyboard unit 130 and requires further description, it will be described in more detail.

[0058] The second communication module 132 of the second keyboard unit 130 communicates with the digital processing device via wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth, infrared communication, home radio frequency (RF), wireless local area network, etc.) and communicates with the first communication module 112 of the first keyboard unit 110 via wired or wireless communication.

[0059] The second communication module 132 can receive new keyboard layout information from a digital processing device or a server on the Internet and store it in the second memory 136. The keyboard layout information is, for example, logical arrangement information, in which letters or functions correspond to each key physically arranged in the first keyboard unit 110 and / or the second keyboard unit 130.

[0060] The first communication module 112 of the first keyboard unit 110 can communicate with the second keyboard unit 130, which is the main keyboard unit, and receive new keyboard layout information through the second keyboard unit 130 to store it in the first memory 116. Of course, as will be described later, when the first keyboard unit 110 is connected to the digital processing device alone, the first communication module 112 can communicate directly with the digital processing device.

[0061] The second layout setting module 134 sets the second keyboard unit 130 using a keyboard layout selected by the user from the keyboard layout stored in the second memory 136. For example, the user can set the keyboard layout by using a predetermined key among the keys in the second key module 140 of the second keyboard unit 130, and at this time, the operation status information displayed on the second display 144 can be referenced.

[0062] The keyboard layout of the first keyboard unit 110 can be set via the second layout setting module 134 of the second keyboard unit 130; however, the keyboard layout settings for the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 can be performed independently in each keyboard unit. In the former case, the keyboard layout setting information can be transmitted to and shared with the first keyboard unit 110. However, the keyboard layout can be set independently by the first keyboard unit 110 for operation in one-handed mode.

[0063] In this way, the keyboard layout of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 can be set separately for each of the scenarios of single-handed operation and two-handed operation. For example, as Figure 5 As shown, in one-handed mode, default settings such as multi-key keyboard or 1000-key keyboard can be applied to each keyboard unit (see reference). Figure 5 (a) and numeric keypad layouts, and in two-handed mode, default layouts such as QWERTY (see [reference]) can be applied. Figure 5(b) and DVORAK keyboard layout.

[0064] like Figure 5 As shown in (b), in two-handed mode, the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 can be combined to operate as a keyboard device. That is, arranged in a conventional wireless keyboard (see... Figure 1 The keys on the individual boards are respectively arranged on the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130.

[0065] Therefore, users can freely arrange and use the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 to achieve the most comfortable wrist angle.

[0066] The second memory 136 can store various keyboard layouts. For example, the stored keyboard layouts may include a one-handed keyboard layout that can be set to one-handed mode and a two-handed keyboard layout that can be set to two-handed mode.

[0067] Furthermore, the keyboard layout stored in the second memory 126 may also include a keyboard layout capable of providing keys that function differently depending on the operating system of the wirelessly connected digital processing device, such that keys used for Windows keys in Windows OS can, for example, function as command keys or home / menu operations in Mac OS. It is understood that a keyboard layout based on the language of the operating system installed on the digital processing device may also be stored.

[0068] The second controller 138 identifies the communication connection established between the second keyboard unit 130 and the digital processing device and the first keyboard unit 110, and the second keyboard unit 130 identifies the keyboard layout corresponding to the operating mode of the second keyboard unit 130 (e.g., one-handed mode or two-handed mode).

[0069] like Figure 5 As shown, when the second keyboard unit 130 is wirelessly connected to the digital processing device but not wirelessly connected to the first keyboard unit 110, the second controller 138 can apply a one-handed keyboard layout to the second keyboard unit 130. Subsequently, when the second controller 138 detects a wireless connection to the first keyboard unit 110, the second controller 138 can apply a two-handed keyboard layout to both the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130.

[0070] The second controller 138 generates keystroke data corresponding to the key selected by the user on the second key module 140 based on the keyboard layout of the application, and transmits the generated keystroke data to the digital processing device. Furthermore, the second controller 138 can use the second touchpad 142 to transmit cursor movement data and gesture data (e.g., zoom in / out, etc.) to the digital processing device.

[0071] The second controller 138 can also transmit manipulation data (e.g., keystroke data, cursor movement data, gesture data, etc.) received from the first keyboard unit 110 connected to the digital processing device. To this end, the first controller 118 can generate manipulation data about the user's operation on the first keyboard unit 110 and transmit it to the second keyboard unit 130.

[0072] The first controller 118 and the second controller 138 can process manipulation data from each keyboard unit to display on the corresponding first display 124 and second display 144.

[0073] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, one or more combination keys (such as shift key, alt key, control key, etc.) are arranged on each of the key modules 120, 140 of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130, and these keys can be used in combination with other keys or when calling special functions.

[0074] When a combination of keys is selected or deselected in one keyboard unit, the first controller 118 or the second controller 138 transmits the keystroke data to another keyboard and shares it with the other keyboard, thereby enabling normal operation of selecting or deselecting based on the combination of keys.

[0075] In addition, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, each of the key modules 120 and 140 in the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 has a preset input selection key (see...). Figure 6 (610 and 620).

[0076] like Figure 6 As shown, the input selection keys 610 and 620 can specify which of the multiple assigned operations (e.g., as a letter key operation, as a function key operation (e.g., F1 to F12), as a navigation key operation, etc.) will be executed when the user selects the corresponding key for multiple operations.

[0077] For example, when J, ↓, and PgDn are assigned to a key, if the user selects the corresponding key without selecting input selection keys 610 and 620, the second controller 138 will generate keystroke data corresponding to J. However, when the first input selection key 610 is selected and the same key is selected, the second controller 138 will generate keystroke data corresponding to PgDn. Conversely, when the second input selection key 620 is selected and the same key is selected, the second controller 138 will generate keystroke data corresponding to ↓.

[0078] Information regarding the selection or deselection of input selection keys 610 and 620 can also be processed and transmitted to other keyboard units for sharing among them.

[0079] In this way, in order for the separate first keyboard unit 110 and second keyboard unit 130 to operate as a single keyboard device as a whole, when the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 are operated, information about key selection and deselection that will be applied together is processed and shared with each other.

[0080] The second key module 140 includes multiple keys to generate keystroke data based on the user's selection. For example, each key can be arranged as a mechanical keyboard structure or a touch keyboard structure.

[0081] A display panel can be attached to the surface of the keys, allowing the user to visually identify the key operation (e.g., key value) based on the current keyboard layout applied to the second keyboard unit 130. For example, the display panel can be an electronic paper display. Depending on the applied keyboard layout, such as one-handed mode or two-handed mode, the information displayed on the display panel regarding the operation of the corresponding keys can be changed. Of course, when the user selects any key, information about the operation to be performed by the selected key can be displayed on the second display 144.

[0082] like Figure 4 As shown, the multiple keys included in the second button module 140 corresponding to the user's right hand can be arranged to form multiple blocks.

[0083] In other words, a main block MB consisting of 3x3 keys (including the J, K, and L keys located at the base positions of the right index, middle, and ring fingers) and a first outer block 1 consisting of 1x3 keys are arranged. st OB is positioned to the right of the main block MB, and the second outer block 2 consists of 1x3 keys. nd OB is arranged in the first outer block 1 st The right side of OB.

[0084] The first outer block is adjacent to the main block (MB) but located below it (i.e., closer to the user), and the second outer block is adjacent to the first outer block but located below it, so that the little finger of the right hand can move downwards and easily select the keys arranged on the first and second outer blocks.

[0085] An inner block IB consisting of 1x3 keys is arranged to the left of the main block, and a second display 144 and a spare block SB consisting of one or more keys are arranged to the left of the inner block. Figure 4 The diagram illustrates a configuration where the B key, shared by the first keyboard unit 110, is arranged in a spare block, allowing the letter B to be input using the right hand. The key operation information contained in the spare block can be freely configured by the user, and the spare block can be omitted if not necessary.

[0086] The bottom block (BB) is positioned below the main block, inner block, and spare block (i.e., relatively close to the user). The bottom block can be positioned to correspond to the right thumb, and considering the range of motion of the thumb caused by the muscles of the right hand, the key of the bottom block can be arranged in a curved shape.

[0087] The second touchpad 142 is located on the right side of the lower block and below the main block and the first outer block. The second touchpad 142 is located within the main block in a position accessible by bending a finger in the base position.

[0088] Its advantage is that, taking into account the joint movement of the right hand, the keys of the second button module 140 and the second touchpad 142 are arranged so that the right hand can select the key by moving the most comfortable and shortest distance, and also so that the mouse cursor can be moved by touching the second touchpad 142 when the user's right hand is in the base position in the main block.

[0089] Another advantage is that the second display 144 is arranged in a position that is not covered when the user selects a key or manipulates the second touchpad 142, so that when the user manipulates the second keyboard unit 130, the user can easily check the operation status, setting status, etc. of the second keyboard unit 130 and / or the keyboard device.

[0090] Similarly, such as Figure 3 As shown, the multiple keys included in the first button module 120 corresponding to the user's left hand can be arranged to form multiple blocks. These are respectively as follows: Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the first key module 120 of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second key module 140 of the second keyboard unit 130 can be mirror images of each other.

[0091] In other words, a main block MB consisting of 3x3 keys (including the J, K, and L keys located at the base positions of the left index, middle, and ring fingers) and a first outer block 1 consisting of 1x3 keys are arranged. st OB is positioned to the left of the main block MB, and the second outer block 2 consists of 1x3 keys. nd OB is arranged in the first outer block 1 st On the left side of OB. The first and second outer blocks are arranged to gradually descend relative to each other, allowing the little finger of the left hand to move downwards and easily select the keys located on the first and second outer blocks.

[0092] The inner block IB, consisting of 1x3 keys, is arranged to the left of the main block, and the first display 124 and the spare block SB, consisting of one or more keys, are arranged to the right of the inner block.

[0093] The bottom block (BB) is placed below the main block, inner block, and spare block. The bottom block can be positioned to correspond to the left thumb, and considering the range of motion of the thumb caused by the muscles of the left hand, the key of the bottom block can be arranged in a curved shape.

[0094] The first touchpad 122 is located on the left side of the lower block and below the main block and the first outer block. The first touchpad 122 is located within the main block and is accessible by bending a finger in the base position.

[0095] Its advantage is that, taking into account the joint movement of the left hand, the keys of the first button module 120 and the first touchpad 122 are arranged so that the left hand can select the key by moving the most comfortable and shortest distance, and also so that the mouse cursor can be moved by touching the first touchpad 122 when the user's left hand is in the base position in the main block.

[0096] Another advantage is that the first display 124 is positioned in a location that is not covered when the user selects the keys or manipulates the first touchpad 122, so that when the user manipulates the first keyboard unit 110, the user can easily check the operation status, setting status, etc. of the first keyboard unit 110 and / or the keyboard device.

[0097] The first touchpad 122 in the first keyboard unit 110 and the second touchpad 142 in the second keyboard unit 130 can be used to manipulate the movement of the cursor and input manipulation gestures with fingers.

[0098] For example, a manipulation gesture is used to perform a predetermined operation (e.g., zoom in / out) based on the movement of the position of a finger contacting the first touchpad 122 or the second touchpad 142. A manipulation gesture can be input by having multiple fingers contact either the first touchpad 122 or the second touchpad 142, but the positions of the fingers contacting the first touchpad 122 and the second touchpad 142 can be transmitted to the main keyboard unit, and input can be performed by recognizing changes in the position of the contacting fingers. For example, if one finger contacting the first touchpad 122 and another finger contacting the second touchpad 142 move to reduce the distance between the fingers, this can be recognized as a manipulation gesture for zooming out.

[0099] The second display 144 can display setting status information (e.g., setting to the main keyboard unit, the keyboard layout of the current application) and operation status information (e.g., keystroke data generated when any special key is triggered, operations generated due to manipulation gestures input from the second touchpad 142 (e.g., zooming, etc.)), both of which are related to the second keyboard unit 130.

[0100] As described above, the advantage is that the wireless keyboard device according to this embodiment enables the use of the main keyboard unit alone (one-handed mode) or the use of the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit together (two-handed mode), and allows for adaptive changes in the keyboard layout in both one-handed and two-handed modes, thereby maximizing user convenience.

[0101] Furthermore, the separate main keyboard unit and sub-keyboard unit can be arranged to provide the user with the most comfortable wrist angle, and the keys and touchpad can be ergonomically arranged to minimize wrist movement during input, thereby promoting joint health and improving work efficiency.

[0102] In this way, such as Figures 7 to 9 As shown, the wireless keyboard can be fixed in a way that suits the user's convenience (i.e., the relative position and rotation angle of the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit) by fixing components.

[0103] like Figure 7 As shown, the fixing member can be an arc-shaped rod 710, and one or more through holes 720 can be formed in the main body of the arc-shaped rod 710.

[0104] To allow users to use the keyboard device in the most comfortable posture, the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 are positioned above the curved lever 710 so that they are appropriately spaced from each other (see [link]). Figure 7 (b)). After the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 are rotated to a rotation angle suitable for the user's wrist, fasteners such as screws pass through the through-hole 720 and engage with each of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130, thereby securing the arrangement of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130. It is understood that there are various other fasteners that use the curved rod 710 to secure the arrangement of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130.

[0105] In addition, such as Figure 8 As shown, the guide rod 810, which is fixed to the rear surface of each of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130, can be slidably coupled to the sliding groove 805 in the arc-shaped rod 710.

[0106] When the first keyboard unit 110 and / or the second keyboard unit 130 are slid to specific positions, at least one of the first keyboard unit 110 and / or the second keyboard unit 130 rotates at a rotation angle suitable for the user's wrist angle. The arrangement of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 can be secured by rotating the fastener (such as a nut) attached to the guide rod 810 downward to prevent the guide rod 810 from sliding.

[0107] Subsequently, by adjusting the height adjustment levers 820 located at multiple positions on the rear surface of the first keyboard unit 110 and / or the second keyboard unit 130, respectively, the height and tilt of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130 can be adjusted to suit the user. The shapes of the fasteners and the height adjustment levers 820 can vary. Although not shown, they can be applied to... Figure 7 and Figure 9 .

[0108] Figure 7 and Figure 8 The example shown is a case where the fixing member is an arc-shaped rod 710, while the fixing member can be a hinged rod 910.

[0109] The hinge 910 includes multiple axes and multiple hinges configured to connect adjacent axes. After adjusting the axes and hinges to properly adjust the arrangement of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130, fasteners such as pins can be used to prevent the hinges from rotating.

[0110] The hinge rod 910 can be detachably attached to the rear surface of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130, and each end of the hinge rod 910 can be fixed to the rear surface of the first keyboard unit 110 and the second keyboard unit 130, respectively.

[0111] As described above, the wireless keyboard device according to this embodiment has the feature that the arrangement of the wireless keyboard selected by the user (i.e., the relative position and rotation angle of the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit) can be fixed by a fixing member, thereby ensuring operational stability and ease of use.

[0112] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for changing the keyboard layout for each communication connection of a wireless keyboard device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] Reference Figure 10 In step 1010, by performing a wireless connection with the digital processing device, any one of the wireless keyboard devices is set as the main keyboard unit.

[0114] In step 1020, the main keyboard unit operates in announcement mode, allowing another keyboard unit to access the main keyboard unit as a sub-keyboard unit, and determines whether the sub-keyboard unit is connected to the main keyboard unit.

[0115] In step 1030, if the sub-keyboard unit is not connected, the main keyboard unit is set to apply a one-handed keyboard layout (see [link]). Figure 5 (a) Therefore, user manipulation using the main keyboard unit is generated as manipulation data based on a one-handed keyboard layout and provided to a digital processing device.

[0116] In step 1040, if a sub-keyboard unit is connected, the main keyboard unit is configured to use a two-handed keyboard layout (which is applied separately to the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit), so that the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit operate as a single wireless keyboard device (see [link]). Figure 5 (b)

[0117] In order to enable the physically separate main keyboard unit and sub-keyboard unit to operate as a single keyboard device, the selection and deselection information of keys (e.g., combination keys, input selection keys, etc.) that should be used together when the main keyboard unit and sub-keyboard unit are operating are processed to be shared by each other.

[0118] It should be easy to understand that even when the sub-keyboard unit is connected to the main keyboard unit, each of the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit can be set to operate in one-handed mode according to the user's operation.

[0119] It should be readily understood that the method described above for altering the keyboard layout for each connection structure of a wireless keyboard device can be implemented as a software program or application embedded in a digital processing device and executed as an automated process according to a time sequence. Computer programmers in the art can readily deduce the code and code segments composed of programs, etc. Furthermore, the program is stored on a computer-readable medium and read and executed by a computer to implement the method.

[0120] While exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described above, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be modified in various forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A detachable keyboard device, comprising: The main keyboard unit is connected to the digital processing device via wired or wireless connection. as well as The sub-keyboard unit is physically separate from the main keyboard unit and is connected to the main keyboard unit via wired or wireless connection. When the main keyboard unit is connected to the digital processing device and the sub-keyboard unit is not connected to the digital processing device, a keyboard layout for one-handed operation is applied. This one-handed operation keyboard layout defines a first logical arrangement of how each of the multiple keys on the main keyboard unit corresponds to an associated letter. Specifically, when the main keyboard unit is connected to the digital processing device and the sub-keyboard unit is also connected to the digital processing device, a keyboard layout for two-handed operation is applied to both the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit. This two-handed operation keyboard layout defines a second logical arrangement of how each of the multiple keys on the main keyboard unit corresponds to an associated letter. This second logical arrangement differs from the first logical arrangement. When the main keyboard unit corresponds to the user's right hand, the keys of the main keyboard unit are arranged to form multiple blocks. The plurality of blocks include: A main block consisting of multiple keys; A first outer block consisting of multiple keys is arranged adjacent to the right side of the main block and is located on the lower side closer to the user than the main block. A second outer block consisting of multiple keys, the second outer block being arranged adjacent to the right side of the first outer block and positioned below the first outer block; An inner block consisting of multiple keys, the inner block being arranged adjacent to the left side of the main block and positioned below the main block; and A lower block consisting of multiple keys is arranged below the inner block and the main block, wherein the multiple keys corresponding to the movement path of the thumb are arranged in a curved shape. The touchpad is located below the main block and the first outer block and is located to the right of the lower block.

2. The detachable keyboard device according to claim 1, wherein, When the sub-keyboard unit corresponds to the user's left hand, the keys and touchpad of the sub-keyboard unit are arranged in a mirror manner as the main keyboard unit.

3. The detachable keyboard device according to claim 1, wherein, An electronic paper display is provided on the surface of each key to display the operation assigned to the corresponding key according to the keyboard layout of the application.

4. The detachable keyboard device according to claim 1, wherein, A display is provided in an area that does not interfere with the keys and the touchpad to show the operation and setting status of the main keyboard unit or the sub-keyboard unit.

5. The detachable keyboard device according to claim 2, wherein, The main keyboard unit recognizes changes in the relative contact positions of the user's fingers with the touchpad of the main keyboard unit and the touchpad of the sub-keyboard unit as manipulation gestures, and transmits the manipulation data to the digital processing device.

6. The detachable keyboard device according to claim 1, wherein, The selection and deselection information of the input selection keys and combination keys in either the main keyboard unit or the sub-keyboard unit are preset to be shared by each other.

7. The detachable keyboard device according to claim 1, wherein, A fixing component is used to fix the relative position and relative rotation angle of the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit.

8. The detachable keyboard device according to claim 7, wherein, The fixing member is at least one of an arc-shaped rod and a hinged rod.

9. The detachable keyboard device according to claim 8, wherein, Each of the main keyboard unit and the sub-keyboard unit is coupled to the fixing member to slide along a path formed in the fixing member to the position to be fixed.

10. The detachable keyboard device according to claim 9, wherein, The main keyboard unit operates in announcement mode to establish a wireless connection with the sub-keyboard unit, and integrates the control data received from the sub-keyboard unit with the control data generated by the main keyboard unit for transmission to the digital processing device.

11. The detachable keyboard device according to claim 1, wherein, The main keyboard unit receives the keyboard layout from the digital processing device and provides the keyboard layout to the sub-keyboard units.

12. A computer program product disposed in a main keyboard unit, the main keyboard unit storing a computer program for executing a method of changing a keyboard layout for each communication connection of the keyboard device, wherein the computer program instructs the main keyboard unit to perform the following steps: Wired or wireless connection to a digital processing device; Determine if a sub-keyboard unit is connected; When the sub-keyboard unit is not connected, a keyboard layout for one-handed operation is applied, which defines a first logical arrangement of how each of the plurality of keys on the main keyboard unit corresponds to the associated letter. as well as When the sub-keyboard unit is connected, a two-handed operation keyboard layout associated with the sub-keyboard unit is applied. This two-handed operation keyboard layout defines a second logical arrangement of how each of the multiple keys on the main keyboard unit corresponds to an associated letter. This second logical arrangement differs from the first logical arrangement. When the main keyboard unit corresponds to the user's right hand, the keys of the main keyboard unit are arranged to form multiple blocks. The plurality of blocks include: A main block consisting of multiple keys; A first outer block consisting of multiple keys is arranged adjacent to the right side of the main block and is located on the lower side closer to the user than the main block. A second outer block consisting of multiple keys is arranged adjacent to the right side of the first outer block and positioned below the first outer block. An inner block consisting of multiple keys, the inner block being arranged adjacent to the left side of the main block and positioned below the main block; and A lower block consisting of multiple keys is arranged below the inner block and the main block, wherein the multiple keys corresponding to the movement path of the thumb are arranged in a curved shape. The touchpad is located below the main block and the first outer block and is located to the right of the lower block.

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