Freeman T Rader

US Patent:

51227860, Jun 16, 1992

Filed:

Jun 27, 1990

Appl. No.:

7/544757

Inventors:

Freeman Rader - Manitou Springs CO

International Classification:

G09G 307
B41J 508

US Classification:

340711

Abstract:

A pair of left and right ergonomic keypads may be separately positioned on a desktop or in the armrests of a chair to permit the user to operate the keypads while assuming more comfortable and natural hand and wrist positions than required when using prior art slab keyboards. The separate keypads may be hingedly, interlockingly joined to function as a compact unitary keyboard for desktop use. When so joined for desktop use, the keypads may be rotated about a point of attachment to any desired position from an open position to a closed position. When in the closed position, the keypads form a compact, diamond-shaped unitary keyboard providing improved portability. Whether employed in a desktop or an armrest application, the keypads may be adjusted to any angle that the user finds most comfortable and convenient for operation. Individual keys are arranged to provide an ergonomically sound home position for each of the user's hands from which a maximum number of keys and control devices may be reached without moving the hands from their home positions. Keys are located on the top surface of the keypads, and additional keys and/or cursor control devices are located on the vertical front surface of each of the keypads for actuation by the user's thumbs.