Chris L Wolf

US Patent:

52875261, Feb 15, 1994

Filed:

Jun 22, 1990

Appl. No.:

7/542482

Inventors:

Chris L. Wolf - Des Moines WA
Michael F. Maikowski - Des Moines WA
Winston N. Martin - Bellevue WA
Walter E. Lindsley - Selah WA

International Classification:

G06F 303
G06F 1520

US Classification:

395800

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for enhancing the operation of computer keyboards. The keyboard includes a plurality of keys, and code generation means for producing make and break codes when keys are depressed and released. The invention comprises a processor coupled to receive the generated codes. The processor detects a sequence of codes serially including a make code of a trigger key, a make code of a target key different from the trigger key, and a break code of the target key. A timer determines whether the interval of time between the trigger key make code and the target key break codes exceeds a predetermined non-zero triggering interval. If the sequence is not detected, or if the triggering interval is not exceeded, then the processor outputs the codes produced by the code generation means. However if the sequence is detected and if the triggering interval is exceeded, modified codes are output. Embodiments are described in which non-touch-type keys, such as the control key, can be typed using only the touch-type portion of a keyboard.

US Patent:

49377787, Jun 26, 1990

Filed:

Apr 14, 1986

Appl. No.:

6/853302

Inventors:

Chris L. Wolf - Des Moines WA
Michael F. Maikowski - Des Moines WA
Winston N. Martin - Des Moines WA
Walter E. Lindsley - Selah WA

International Classification:

G06F 303

US Classification:

364900

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for enhancing the operation of computer keyboards is disclosed. The invention allows touch-typing of nontouch-type keys by detecting a triggering sequence in the touch-type keys. For example, by holding down the Space Bar while depressing and releasing a second key and before release of the Space Bar, the Space Bar is seen to act as a Control key. Furthermore, the functions of nontouch-type keys may be superimposed upon touch-type keys and accessed in a similar manner. The invention interprets make codes which are generated by the keyboard when a key is depressed and a break code which is generated by the keyboard when a key is released. If a triggering sequence of codes is detected, then the normal function of one of the touch-type keys is altered.