US 4,158,130 A · Interchangeable auxiliary keyboard

Abstract

A low cost, self locating auxiliary keyboard assembly is disclosed for changing the key configuration and classification of the keyboard of a data terminal device, the assembly including a cover member having a plurality of apertures which overlie associated control keys on the keyboard of the data terminal device. A classification indicia card having a plurality of predetermined positioned apertures is placed on the cover member, the apertures in the indicia card overlying certain of the apertures in the cover member to allow a removable auxiliary key member to be inserted within the aligned apertures of both the indicia card and the cover member to engage the top portion of the associated control key on the keyboard of the data terminal device for operation thereby. Removing the auxiliary key members from the cover member allows other indicia cards to be located on the cover member thereby changing the configuration and classification of the keys of the keyboard allowing the keyboard to operate in different functional modes. Means are provided in the cover member which cooperate with the control keys on the keyboard to orientate and hold the cover member on the keyboard of the data terminal device.

Claims14

Dependent claims

In combination with a keyboard having key members therein, an auxiliary keyboard assembly adapted for positioning on the keyboard comprising:

(a) a cover member having defined portions for engaging and locating the cover member on the keyboard, said cover member having a plurality of first apertures each positioned over one of the key members;
(b) an indicia bearing member positioned on said cover member, said indicia member having a portion covering certain of said first apertures and further including a plurality of second apertures, each of said second apertures being in alignment with one of the other of said first apertures in said cover member;
(c) and a removable key actuating means slidably located in each of the aligned first and second apertures and extending through said aligned apertures to engage a corresponding key member for operating said key member upon actuation of said key actuating means.

In combination with a data input device having a keyboard including a plurality of control key members for controlling the operation of the terminal device, an auxiliary keyboard assembly comprising:

(a) a rigid support member having defined surfaces for locating the support member on the keyboard;
(b) a plurality of first apertures located in said support member and positioned adjacent certain of said control key members upon locating the support member on the keyboard;
(c) means secured to said support member for engaging said control key members for positioning and holding said support members on the keyboard;
(d) an indicia bearing card member positioned on said support member, said card member having a predetermined number of second apertures selectively positioned therein, each of said second apertures aligned with certain of said first apertures in said support member;
(e) and removable key actuating means located in and extending through each of said aligned first and second apertures to engage one of said control key members for operating said control key member upon actuation of said key actuating means.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Interchangeable auxiliary keyboard

Life of this patent

Interchangeable auxiliary keyboard

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims14