US 4,631,700 AGranted

Magnetically coded software for multi-purpose computer

AssigneeLaitram, L.L.C.

InventorJames M. Lapeyre

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Abstract

A computer keyboard matrix overlay panel carries indicia indicating the functions of keys and other operating instructions, to replace a significant part of the information formerly set forth in an external instruction manual. Individual panels are coded by incorporated switch parts acting with cooperating computer switch parts to set up a particular operating mode for which the respective key functions are identified when the panel is in place over the computer keyboard keys, the functions being selected by the use of two sequential, non-simultaneous keystrokes involving any of the keys on the keyboard. The panels also serve as software media by incorporation of data strips along panel edges to permit carrying program and data information external to the computer memory which is readable into the computer by corresponding transducers. The panel codes can change the comptuer mode and enter corresponding programs, subroutines, constants, and variable data. With three separate code strips: data, program steps and subroutines are isolated advantageously for entry at different times. Optically coded data strips are used for read only memory for program steps. Magnetically coded strips are used for read-write memory into corresponding reading apparatus coupled to the computer for data which is updated after processing in the computer.

Claims12

Dependent claims

A software accessory system for a computer data processing system having a coded data strip reading transducer attachment, a manual keyboard with a plurality of keys and internal data processing capabilities of changing operational modes, receiving and storing data and program instructions from either said reading transducer or said keyboard, comprising in combination,

a self supporting keyboard key overlay matrix panel defining a plurality of straight edges and having structure thereon for mating with a set of the keyboard keys to permit manual operation of the keys,
program control means in said computer data processing system activating individual keys to enter a plurality of data and instruction functions greater than the number of keys in response to combinations of more than one keystroke per entry,
graphic indicia on the panel identifying respective individual ones of the keys for indicating a plurality of operational functions attainable by those individual keys by said combinations of keystrokes,
coded data means comprising at least one coded data storage strip disposed along one straight edge of the panel for presenting in coded format for reading data and instructions into the computer data processing system by means of said transducer attachment, software storage means in said computer system for storing data read from the strip by said transducer for access by the computer data processing system as data and instructions for use in data processing operations and mode selection means responsive to said coded data means on the panel for inplementing an operational mode in the computer data processing system enabling the keys to perform those operational fucntions displayed by the graphic indicia on the panel.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Facts

Application: 06/522,234Filed 11 Aug 1983 · continuation in part
Priority: 21 Jan 1983
Granted: 23 Dec 1986
Term ends: Not estimatedThe source records don’t support an estimate.

Classification8 codes

G06F 3/0219
Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device: special purpose keyboards
B41J 5/10
Character or syllable selected by means of keys or keyboards of the typewriter type: arrangements of keyboards , e.g. key button disposition
B41J 5/28
Character or syllable selected by means of keys or keyboards of the typewriter type: multiple-action keys, e.g. keys depressed by two or more…
G06F 3/0224
Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device: key guide holders