Projected Keycap Keyboard for Dynamic Layout Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The standard QWERTY keyboard layout has no logical sequence for key placement, making it inefficient for modern data entry needs, such as switching between languages and inputting various types of data and commands.
Innovation Solution
An electronic keyboard with an image projecting means that displays images on keycaps, allowing dynamic adjustment of keyboard layouts and customizations based on user preferences, language, or application requirements, using electro-mechanical interfaces and image projecting technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a standard QWERTY keyboard layout is used, then the keyboard structure is simple and familiar to users, but it lacks logical sequence for key placement making it inefficient for modern data entry needs
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard layout is made dynamic through programmable keys that can be reconfigured via software. The controller allows users to customize key functions, layouts, and configurations according to specific applications or data entry needs, transforming the static QWERTY layout into an adaptable system that optimizes both efficiency and ergonomics.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the keyboard is reconfigured for different languages and data types, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard is designed with multi-functionality where each key can serve multiple purposes through software programming. The controller enables a single keyboard to function as different layouts (QWERTY, Dvorak, AZERTY, etc.), support multiple languages, and provide application-specific configurations, eliminating the need for multiple physical keyboards while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Physical mechanical reconfiguration of keyboard layouts is replaced with software-based programming. Instead of physically rearranging keys or using multiple keyboards, the system uses a controller and software to dynamically assign functions to keys, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple keyboard layouts are supported, then adaptability is improved, but the visual identification of keys becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard incorporates LED indicators that provide visual feedback for active layouts, languages, or key functions. Different colors or lighting patterns indicate the current configuration state, making it easy for users to identify which layout is active without confusion, even when multiple layouts are supported.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient switching between keyboard layouts, enhances user experience by providing visual cues for data input, and supports multiple languages and commands on a single keyboard, improving ergonomics and usability.
Implementation Method 1
The electro-mechanical interface is coupled to the one or more keys and, in response to the mechanical interaction between the user and the one or more keys, converts the mechanical interaction into an electrical signal indicative of the specific data input
Implementation Method 2
The image projecting means is coupled to the electronic keyboard (or contained therein) and projects an image onto a top surface of the one or more keycaps
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to systems, apparatuses, and methods for the projection of images onto keycaps of a computer keyboard.