Pen-based form computer

#The present invention relates to a mobile computers, and relates more particularly to a hand-held pen-based form computer.

#A variety of mobile computers, including the Notebook PCs, are well accepted and in use for the advantages of mobility. They can be classified into two categories basically: a general purposed personal computer or a dedicated one fixed for certain applications. The former normally would need the users to know the "commands", system hardware and software configurations to do jobs, while the later can only do the hobs predefined by the vendors. An in both cases, a very high level of concentration is needed for the interactions with the computers. These have become a major barrier for people in all ages to use the computer.

#After a complete analysis, it is found that over 70% of today's applications in the personal computing environment can be properly down with "GENERALIZED FORMS" consisting of "PORTS" with different attributes ranging from text, array, graphics, bitmapped, etc. Further, the Form is much easier to understand for the people than the traditional "Computer Files". It also provides a more intuitive human interface similar to those printed forms encountered by most people from day to day. The information presented in a form type is made for certain purposes which can be properly taken as applications objects, so that all personal information processing can be operated in a "object basis". With the internal object-oriented designs mapping to the rear world applications, the user can therefore apply information with less effort in fighting the above mentioned barriers.

#The present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the annexed drawings, in which:

#FIG. 1 illustrates five ways to hold a pen-based form computer according to the present invention;

#FIG. 2 is a top view of a pen-based form computer embodying the present invention;

#Referring to FIG. 1, therein illustrated are five ways to hold a pen-based form computer according to the present invention. The outer shell of the pen-based form computer is an ergonomic mechanic design which fits smoothly fits over the wrist for comfortable holding with one hand. The smoothly curved outer shell of the pen-based form computer allows itself to be stopped against the waist when it is being held with one hand, or conveniently picked up from the desk with one hand.

#Referring to FIG. 2, therein illustrated is the top view of the Pen Based Form Computer. The Pen Based Form Computer is referenced by 5, comprising a pressure-sensitive touch panel 8 overlaid LCD 9 for data output display, a power indicator 7, a speaker 6, a pen rest 10 with a snap fastener 11 for holding a wireless pen (see 24 in FIG. 5).

#Referring to FIG. 3, therein illustrated is an IC memory card slot 13 on the right side of the pen based form computer for inserting an IC memory card, and an interface lid 12 at the top covered over the connector shown in FIG. 4. After an IC memory card has been inserted in the IC memory card slot 13, the slide which is indicated at 15 is slided up to lock the card in place. Removing the IC memory card from the IC memory card slot 13 is easy and made by: sliding down the slide 15 and then pushing the eject, which is indicated at 14, to drive out the IC memory card automatically. The IC card adopts a PCMCIA standard hardware interface. The numeral 16 designates a LCD brightness control for controlling the brightness of the LCD 9.