US 5,801,345 A · Keyboard assembly incorporating multiple lighting modes for improved user feedback

Abstract

A keyboard assembly incorporating multiple lighting modalities is disclosed herein. In one lighting mode, discrete indicator lights are embedded in the actuator keys to signify the state of an associated function. In a second mode, a plurality of legends, each sufficiently proximate to an associated function actuator key, are illuminated. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, function indicator lights in the actuator keys provide real-time user feedback such that scrolling through numerous display screen menus to determine availability of a desired function may be eliminated. Further, the backlit actuator legends enhances usability of system in low light clinical environments during ultrasound exams making the function actuator keys easy to locate. In addition, the backlit legends increases the contrast in high ambient light environments for improved readability. The combination of design features disclosed provides a relatively inexpensive, long lasting keyboard assembly that provides improved user feedback for more efficient operation.

Claims18

Dependent claims

A keyboard assembly incorporating at least a first and a second lighting mode, the keyboard assembly comprising a plurality of actuator keys, said first lighting mode comprising an indicator light on each of the plurality of keys, and said second lighting mode comprising backlighted legends each in close proximity to and spaced from a corresponding one of the plurality of actuator keys and identifying an associated function of said corresponding one of the plurality of actuator keys.

A keyboard assembly comprising:

(a) a main bezel comprising a plurality of receptacles for retention and operation of a plurality of actuator keys, wherein each of the plurality of receptacles receives a single one of the plurality of actuator keys, said bezel further comprising a plurality of light dams wherein each of the plurality of light dams is proximate and associated with an individual one of the plurality of receptacles;
(b) a printed circuit board (PCB) having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein said PCB further has a plurality of prealigned light holes formed therein such that a first plurality of backlight light emitting diodes (LEDs) and a second plurality of indicator LEDs are attached to the bottom surface of the PCB and aligned with corresponding light holes, and wherein said top surface of the PCB has a plurality of prearranged conductive switch pads thereon;
and
(c) a rubber-like elastomeric layer, sandwiched between the main bezel and the PCB, having a plurality of features formed therein, said features including, for each one of the plurality of actuator keys:
a dome responsive to said one actuator key such that when said one actuator key is depressed, the dome collapses and contacts an associated switch pad thereby generating a detectible signal;
a light passage hole for permitting transmission of light from an associated backlight LED through to an associated light dam;
and
a light boot for guiding light from an associated indicator LED into a light pipe, said light pipe having a first end slidably engaged in the boot and a second end press fitted into said one actuator key such that light can pass through the pipe and be observed through an opening in said one actuator key.

5 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Keyboard assembly incorporating multiple lighting modes for improved user feedback

Life of this patent

Keyboard assembly incorporating multiple lighting modes for improved user feedback

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims18