Keyboard for a handheld computer
AssigneePalm, Inc.
InventorE. Michael Lunsford
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A data entry mechanism for a handheld computer is provided. The data entry mechanism comprises: a plurality of keys configured to be actuated by a stylus of the handheld computer, each of the plurality of keys being electronically coupleable to the handheld computer and generating an electronic signal upon actuation by the stylus; and an encasement structure to retain the plurality of keys, the structure being engagable with a slot of the handheld computer. The data entry mechanism may be used to facilitate data input to a computing or a telecommunications device.
Claims32
A data entry mechanism for a handheld computer, the mechanism comprising:
- an encasement structure dimensioned to at least partially encase the handheld computer;
- a spine extending from the encasement structure, wherein the spine is configured to engage and move within a slot of the handheld computer in order to attach the encasement structure to and detach the encasement structure from the handheld computer;
- a connector provided on the encasement that is matable with a corresponding connector on the handheld computer;
- and
- a plurality of keys provided on the encasement structure, wherein one or more of the plurality of keys are configured to facilitate actuation by a stylus of the handheld computer, and wherein the plurality of keys electrically connect through the connector to the handheld computer when the encasement structure is coupled to the handheld computer.
An encasement for a handheld computer, comprising:
- an encasement structure dimensioned to at least partially encase the handheld computer;
- a spine extending from the encasement structure, wherein the spine is configured to engage and move within an accessory slot of the handheld computer in order to attach the encasement structure to and detach the encasement structure from the handheld computer;
- a connector provided on the encasement that is matable with a corresponding connector on the handheld computer;
- and
- a plurality of keys arranged on a surface of the encasement structure, wherein the plurality of keys connect through the connector to the handheld computer when the spine is engaged with the slot so that the plurality of keys are actuable to signal an alphanumeric entry to the handheld computer.
The data entry mechanism of claim 31, wherein the wireless communication port is an RF or IR port.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.