US20110025607A1 - Switch with Depth and Lateral Articulation Detection - Google Patents
Switch with Depth and Lateral Articulation Detection Download PDFInfo
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- US20110025607A1 US20110025607A1 US12/903,315 US90331510A US2011025607A1 US 20110025607 A1 US20110025607 A1 US 20110025607A1 US 90331510 A US90331510 A US 90331510A US 2011025607 A1 US2011025607 A1 US 2011025607A1
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- Prior art keywords
- switch
- key
- lateral
- downward
- sensing element
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
- G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
- G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
- G06F3/0202—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
- G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
- G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
- G06F3/023—Arrangements for converting discrete items of information into a coded form, e.g. arrangements for interpreting keyboard generated codes as alphanumeric codes, operand codes or instruction codes
- G06F3/0233—Character input methods
- G06F3/0234—Character input methods using switches operable in different directions
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
- H01H13/70—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard
- H01H13/702—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard with contacts carried by or formed from layers in a multilayer structure, e.g. membrane switches
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
- H01H13/70—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard
- H01H13/84—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by ergonomic functions, e.g. for miniature keyboards; characterised by operational sensory functions, e.g. sound feedback
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
- B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
- B41J5/00—Devices or arrangements for controlling character selection
- B41J5/08—Character or syllable selected by means of keys or keyboards of the typewriter type
- B41J5/10—Arrangements of keyboards, e.g. key button disposition
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1626—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with a single-body enclosure integrating a flat display, e.g. Personal Digital Assistants [PDAs]
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
- G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
- G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
- G06F3/0202—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device
- G06F3/0219—Special purpose keyboards
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H2221/00—Actuators
- H01H2221/008—Actuators other then push button
- H01H2221/012—Joy stick type
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H2221/00—Actuators
- H01H2221/008—Actuators other then push button
- H01H2221/016—Lever; Rocker
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H2231/00—Applications
- H01H2231/022—Telephone handset
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H2239/00—Miscellaneous
- H01H2239/022—Miscellaneous with opto-electronic switch
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H2239/00—Miscellaneous
- H01H2239/026—Internal encoding, e.g. validity bit
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
- H04M1/02—Constructional features of telephone sets
- H04M1/23—Construction or mounting of dials or of equivalent devices; Means for facilitating the use thereof
Definitions
- Design of the optical switch with depth and lateral articulation used in the practice of this invention can be as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,705,783, 6,853,366, 5,502,460 and 5,644,338 in which are herein incorporated by reference.
- the present invention generally relates to a rugged switch to be used in musical keyboards, computer keyboards, foot switches and the like wherein the sensing means in rugged applications is not below the switch operating means to be damaged by operator finger pressure.
- Foot switches are being manufactured with variable resistors to vary the speed of motors and other industrial equipment.
- It is a further objective of this invention is key position can be measured independent of pressure, or with a pressure that is comfortable to an operated and not dependant on a force sensing element requirement, as with handicap persons that cannot apply suitable pressure to a force sensing element.
- this invention contemplates having a least one key cap and key interrupter or stem disposed through a pivot and sliding surface wherein the stem is banked by at least one optically emitter detector pair with a optical beam there between.
- the key interrupter blocks or partially blocks the optical beam giving key location detection thus eliminating contact with the sensing means.
- the key can then be articulated in a lateral or sideward direction to vary the optical beam emission to the detector to input computer commands or when used to play music either on a qwerty type keyboard or musical keyboard to give a vibrato effect.
- FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a optical switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with optical position and sideward detection and a tension element for resistance in a downward direction in accordance with the teachings of this invention
- FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a optical switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with separate optical position and sideward detection and a tension element for resistance in a downward direction in accordance with the teachings of this invention
- FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with force sensitive elements for position, lateral and bilateral detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention
- FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a optical switch having a musical key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with separate optical position and sideward detection and a tension element for resistance in a downward direction in accordance with the teachings of this invention
- FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with force sensitive elements for position and sideward detection with roller contact in accordance with the teachings of this invention
- FIG. 6 is a section view through the a switch showing the key stem starting into optical detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention
- FIG. 7 is a section view through a switch showing the key stem at a mid point through optical detection starting to contact the tension element resistance in accordance with the teachings of this invention
- FIG. 8 is a section view through a switch showing the key stem through optical detection and in full contact with the tension element resistance in accordance with the teachings of this invention
- FIG. 9 is a section view through a switch with position force sensing element and optical sideward detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 10 is a section through an optical switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with separate optical position and sideward detection and an elastomeric resistance with a low resistance sideward articulation ball mechanism in accordance with the teachings of this invention
- FIG. 11 is a section through an optical switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with bi-directional sideward or lateral detection and an elastomeric resistance with a low resistance sideward articulation ball mechanism with pressure sensing downward detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
- FIG. 12 is a cross section view of a optical switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with optical position and sideward detection and an elastomeric resistance in a downward direction beneath the stem in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
- FIG. 13 is a section view of a optical switch in a depressed position having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with optical position and sideward detection and a tension element for resistance in a downward direction beneath the stem in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
- FIG. 14 is a cross section through a computer or musical keyboard showing multiple optical switches in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 15 is a partial section view through an optical foot switch in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 16 is a plan view of a dual screen notebook computer with a velocity, acceleration, and lateral detection keys used in a split keyboard in accordance with the teachings of this invention
- FIG. 17 is a section view of an optical switch with mirrors to direct the optical beam in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 18 is a section view of an optical switch with a serrated lower key stem to detect position and change in lateral position of the key stem in accordance with the teachings of this invention
- FIG. 19 is an electrical schematic of an optical switch in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 20 is an electrical schematic of a pressure sensitive switch in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 21 is a section view of a switch with optical and pressure sensing elements for downward detection and low resistance roller for lateral detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 22 is a side view of a keyboard with optical key detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 23 is a plan view of a keyboard with optical key detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 24 is a plan view of a musical keyboard with optical key detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 25 is a flow diagram illustrating the keyboard functions with key stem and sideward articulation detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 26 is a schematic illustrating the microprocessor section of a keyboard with key stem position and sideward articulation detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 27 is a schematic illustrating the elements of a typical optical detector matrix of a keyboard in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 28 is a schematic illustrating the elements of a typical optical emitter matrix of a keyboard in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 29 is a schematic illustrating the elements of a typical pressure sensitive matrix of a keyboard in accordance with the teachings of this invention.
- FIG. 1 shows a top surface 14 with pivot and sliding opening 13 allowing key stem 30 to slide in an up down direction as shown by up down arrow 32 and pivot or be sideward articulated as shown by upper lateral arrow 10 .
- Key stem 30 having an optical opening 22 with optical opening top 34 .
- Emitter 28 and detector 16 can be mounted on printed wiring board 18 that can have circuitry to modulate the on and off conditions of each.
- Elastomeric pad 26 is disposed on printed wiring board 18 .
- key cap 12 When elastomeric pad 26 or tension element is contacted by key stem 30 , key cap 12 can be pivoted in a sideward direction.
- the resultant pivot direction of key stem 30 from upper lateral arrow 10 is shown by lower lateral arrow 24 and the sides of optical opening 22 modifies the resultant emitence of light beam 20 emitted from emitter 28 and incident on detector 16 .
- the clearance between key stem 30 and pivot and sliding opening 13 can be matched to a users preference in as much as more clearance to get more angle of pivot to less clearance to get less angle of movement. At any time from when light beam 20 starts to be attenuated measurements can be made from that point until or during resistance has been felt by elastomeric pad 26 to equal velocity and acceleration from an operator pushing key cap 12 .
- Elastomeric pad 26 is not a requirement to be used to detect the depth in position of key stem 30 , in some systems it may just be a stop to stop the downward motion of key cap 12 . If elastomeric pad 26 is not used depth can be measured through the attenuated range of optical beam 20 , velocity from a point to a point can be measured, and acceleration can be measured because all measurements are in distance. This can be advantageous for an operator to use position in place of pressure, as in musical notes from a Trombone where notes are from the position of the slide, or for a handicap person that cannot apply a force sensing elements required force to get a pleasing output.
- the tension element elastomeric pad 26 can be of the type used in FIG. 6 where that elastomeric pad 72 is placed in the key cap 12 .
- FIG. 2 having the similar elements as FIG. 1 with the addition of a second emitter 44 and second detector 42 having a second optical beam 38 there between being attenuated in the up down direction by second optical opening top 40 in key stem 31 and attenuated in the front to back direction shown by upper front back arrow 46 giving a resultant movement in direction shown by lower front back arrow 48 by second optical opening 36 .
- Having two emitter detector pairs bi-directional alignment allows selection of computer or musical functions in four directions or by triangulation in multiple directions, and when the output is directed to a mouse port can give cursor control.
- FIG. 3 shows a switch in systems that do not require the rugged optical elements, shown with lower force sensing element 54 for depth, acceleration and velocity measurements flanked by left side pressure sensing element 50 and right side pressure sensing element 52 to be pressured by left force member 58 and right force member 56 when key stem 29 is moved or oscillated in the direction of lower lateral arrow 24 .
- Bilateral pressure sensing element 53 to be pressured by side force member 55 can be perpendicular to left side pressure sensitive element 50 and right side pressure sensitive element 52 and opposed by a second bilateral pressure sensing element 51 .
- this arrangement of four pressure sensitive elements is advantageous. But any one of the four can be used when singular lateral detection is only needed. It should be appreciated that those skilled in the art that there are different force sensing elements to name two are resistive and capacitive either or others could be used, and in conjunction with position sensing elements like hall effect sensors, magnet sensors and RF based sensors.
- FIG. 4 shows a musical key 60 being used to position stem 61 .
- Optical slot 64 is made wide as not to attenuate second optical beam 38 enabling in the up down direction to be attenuated by optical slot top 62 in key stem 61 , and can have pressure resistive pad 23 if resistance to downward key motion is desired. If another output function is needed pressure resistive element 23 can be pressure sensitive so when pressed sending other codes depending on the application. This is advantageous so there is only one optical beam per function facilitating less computation, like a first function could be up down and a second function be side ward or lateral for vibrato and other inputs.
- FIG. 5 shows a switch in systems that is more rugged than the switch in FIG. 3 by having the addition of low resistant rollers for side ward pressure.
- Lower force sensing element 54 for being used for depth, acceleration and velocity measurements flanked by left side force sensing element 50 and right side force sensing element 52 to be pressured by left force roller 68 and right force roller 66 when stem 30 is moved or oscillated in the direction of lower lateral arrow 24 .
- FIG. 6 is a section view of a switch that has the elastomeric material under the key cap.
- Key stem 70 being pivotably and slideably received in pivot and sliding surface 19 is shown before optical beam 20 is attenuated by lower surface 17 of key stem 70 .
- Elastomer pad 72 is shown prior to contacting pivot and sliding opening 75 .
- Key stem spring 74 holds key stem in an up position being restrained in the up direction by key stem retainer 15 awaiting depression from an operator.
- FIG. 7 is a section view of a switch with lower surface 17 in a mid position attenuating optical beam 20 , and in first contact with elastomer pad 72 .
- Phantom line 73 shows the starting or up position of key cap 71 .
- FIG. 8 is a section view of a switch with key cap 71 reaching the extent of downward travel of key stem 70 compressing elastomer pad 72 and lower surface 17 further attenuating optical beam 20 .
- FIG. 9 is a section view of a switch that uses optical lateral or vibrato detection and a force sensing element for depth, acceleration and velocity.
- Key stem 76 is shown in an up position with optical beam 20 being straddled by optical opening 78 .
- optical beam 20 is attenuated by the sides of optical opening 78 to be calculated by electronic circuit as shown in FIG. 26 and flow chart in FIG. 25 to give distance, velocity and cycle times.
- Pressure foot 74 will contact force sensing element 80 when key stem 76 is in a down position.
- Pressure foot 74 can be an elastomer of other spring type material. This is advantageous to give better sideward or lateral movement control in applications that want lower pressure for vibrato when in constant contact with force sensitive element 80 .
- FSR's have a force verses resistance relationship such as 0.35 oz. with 10 ohms resistance, 3.57 oz. with 10K ohms resistance or otherwise a direct relationship, but the distance of travel to obtain this resistance change is virtually zero. So it can be advantageous to use an elastomeric pad to contact the pressure sensitive element and although the change in resistance is not as great, the durometer of the elastomeric pad allows for more distance to be traveled by the key stem giving a better feel and protecting the FSR from damage resulting from severe force.
- FIG. 10 is a section view of a switch in which key stem 84 has a pivot ball 96 to allow full sideward articulation in 360 degrees.
- Ball slide 98 slides up and down in pivot and sliding opening 94 as shown by up and down arrow 88 .
- Key stem lower surface 93 attenuates optical beam 91 in the up down direction.
- the sides of optical opening 95 attenuates crossing optical beam 97 in the direction of upper lateral arrow 10 .
- Alignment surface 92 is nested in pivot and sliding opening 94 keeping key stem 84 in a neutral position until key stem 84 is pressed in a down direction allow articulation of key stem 84 about pivot ball 96 .
- Elastomer pad O-ring 90 is shown to limit downward travel and to give resistance to the movement of key stem 84 .
- FIG. 11 is a section view of a switch showing similar elements of FIG. 10 but key stem 85 is longer and remains in optical beam 91 and crossing optical beam 97 .
- Optical opening 95 and crossing optical opening 93 straddling optical beam 91 and crossing optical beam 97 unattenuating each until lateral articulation is started.
- Alignment surface 92 as explained in FIG. 10 is optional depending on designer preference in as much as if alignment surface 92 is used then an operator moving their fingers over the key surface will not allow any attenuation of position, attenuation will only occur after depressing key stem 85 thus releasing movement to allow attenuation. Then if alignment surface 92 is not there then attenuation of position can be at anytime the key stem 85 is moved.
- Force sensing element 89 detects the up down key position with varying pressure from key stem 85 .
- FIG. 12 is a section view of a switch showing key stem 112 in an up position prior to attenuating optical beam 108 with optical slot top 106 .
- FIG. 13 is a section view of a switch of FIG. 12 showing key stem 112 in a downward position from phantom line 73 attenuating optical beam 108 with optical slot top 106 and in first contact with elastomeric pad 110 .
- key stem 112 could also have roller contact 79 like is shown in FIG. 21 to reduce the lateral force being applied to key stem 112 while in contact with elastomeric pad 110 .
- FIG. 14 is a section view of a keyboard showing the switch of FIG. 6 in plurality.
- key stem 70 optical beam 20 , printed wiring board 118 being housed in upper housing 114 and lower housing 116 .
- Having a plurality of switches allows the keyboard to be used for various functions as in input computer codes to a host, position a cursor, input cursor left, right and scroll codes to a host, input Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) commands for playing music, or input computer codes for playing music on a PC.
- MIDI Musical Instrument Digital Interface
- FIG. 15 is a partial section view of a foot switch or foot pedal having key stem 70 and optical beam 20 housed within upper moveable housing 120 and lower housing 122 with pivot 124 there between to allow movement of key stem 70 through optical beam 20 wherein movement can be varied by depressing upper housing 120 to vary the output resultant from attenuating optical beam 20 .
- FIG. 16 shows a notebook computer with rear display 128 mounted in rear housing 126 attached to lower housing 132 laterally adjoined by left side articulated key keyboard 136 and right side articulated key keyboard 130 which can be fitted with any of the key switches heretofore mentioned.
- a separate mouse positioning apparatus is not needed because any one or more of the keys can have mouse like articulation heretofore mentioned in delineation of FIG. 2 and FIG. 11 .
- Lower display 134 is disposed on lower housing 132 . The arrangement of keys is split at a point to optimize typing or use of the keyboard.
- FIG. 16 is presented as a notebook computer it should be appreciated that those skilled in the art could think of the notebook computer with very limited function as in just for playing music, or just a split keyboard for use with a computer or musical instrument with a surface for reference material like sheet music or web notes.
- FIG. 17 shows a different arrangement for directing optical beam 142 being emitted from emitter 140 and being detected by detector 144 .
- emitter mirror 138 and detector mirror 146 both emitter 140 and detector 144 can be surface mounted on printed wiring board 141 to facilitate high production assembly of the switch and or a keyboard.
- FIG. 18 shows emitter 154 emitting a divergent optical beam 156 and being reflected by serrated detection surface 152 on the lower surface of key stem 150 and back through detector beam 160 to detector 158 .
- key 150 is moved in the approximate arc shown by lower arc 148 this movement attenuates the detector beam 160 and to show sideward or lateral movement of key stem 150 .
- Down ward detection can be made by the ever decreasing amount of optical beam incident on detector 158 as key stem gets closure to detector 158 .
- FIG. 19 shows emitter 162 and detector 164 are the only electrical components needed in a singular optical key switch.
- FIG. 20 shows pressure sensitive element 166 is the only electrical component needed in a singular pressure sensitive key switch.
- the pressure sensing element can be but not limited to pressure sensing resistor or a pressuring sensing capacitor type component, and as shown in FIG. 21 there can be multiple pressure sensors to sense lateral positions. And although only three are shown in FIG. 21 it is to be understood by those experienced in the art that more or less could be used to increase or decrease sensitivity in the lateral direction as shown by lateral lower arrow 82 .
- FIG. 21 is a section view of a switch with roller contact 79 to apply pressure to pressure sensitive element 81 and to allow lateral movement in the direction of lateral lower arrow 82 by key stem 89 being pivotably and slideably received in pivot and sliding surface 75 allowing the sides of optical opening 100 to attenuate optical beam 85 being emitted from emitter 87 .
- pressure sensitive element 81 can be flanked by left pressure sensitive element 83 and right pressure sensitive element 77 allowing when key stem 89 is laterally articulated roller contact 79 can apply pressure to left pressure sensitive element 83 or right pressure sensitive element 77 to output a vibrato type of output or a code or codes to a host. This is advantageous to allow lower pressure on a key or persons finger when laterally articulating.
- Pressure sensitive element 83 could also be an elastomeric pad like elastomeric pad 110 as in FIG. 13 when the downward direction is to be sensed by optical beam 85 eliminating the need for pressure sensitive elements.
- Optical opening 100 is a hole through key stem 89 with optical beam 85 there through can alternately be enabled after contact is made by roller contact 79 on pressure sensitive 81 to lesson any ambiguous attenuation of optical beam 85 .
- the downward direction can also be sensed by pressure sensitive element 81 and in the lateral direction by lateral signature detection whereas the rolling effect is measured and results to be different than a singular downward pressure.
- FIG. 22 is a side view of the keyboard showed in FIG. 22 showing key cap 12 , upper housing 170 and lower housing 168 .
- FIG. 23 is a plan view of a keyboard showing key cap 12 and upper housing 170 can have a plurality of keys for computer input to either playing music or normal operation of a PC.
- the pattern number of keys can be varied to match a particular application.
- FIG. 24 is a plan view of a keyboard with a long key 174 and upper housing 172 with a musical pattern of keys.
- the number of keys can be varied to match a particular set of notes or have a piano set of 88.
- FIG. 25 is a firmware flow chart showing key detection and detection of velocity, acceleration and sideward or lateral key movement of a keyboard with a plurality of key switches. With a singular key switch there is no firmware needed with the switch it would be provided by the host device, this flow chart is to be used when a plurality of key switches are used on a keyboard.
- the flow chart is shown being generic and can relate to optical or proximity sensors or pressure sensitive components.
- INITIALIZE ports are set to be in either input or output conditions depending on use, ram is tested, and start up sequence with the host is preformed.
- SCAN KEY MATRIX a scan is made to store a base line set of vales showing starting point where no keys are pressed. A 100% number is assigned to each detector and is based on the baseline value so all detectors can be computed and said to be equal, in applications where more precise calculations are needed for key articulation then a linearization would need to be done on each sensor and that value put in a table to be called when a percent of amplitude is needed.
- a scan is made to check if a key has been detected at SCAN FOR KEY.
- a value of 80% is used at IS DETECTOR 80% SENSED to see if a key has reached a down or interim position signaling the end of detection or just before after pressure will be tested, if no then a test is made for detector being sensed less than 10% or not sensed at IS DETECTOR 10% SENSED, no then a test is made to see if the host is sending at IS HOST SENDING, if no then a return to SCAN FOR KEY.
- IS DETECTOR 80% SENSED a test is made at IS LATERAL SENSED to see if a sideward or lateral articulation is being made. This is done by testing if the side sensors have a change is sensed value. This test could also be made prior to IS DETECTOR 80% SENSED and is advantageous in applications where lateral movement is made for other computer or musical products like a mouse pointing device or for use by a handicap person that cannot produce the force necessary to attain 80% pressure, or in the case of the musical instrument where lateral movement is vibrato and the vibrato is wanted above 80%, or to enter codes or sequences of code like ctrl+C for copy and ctrl+V for paste, any of which can be programmed into the keyboard or computer to be recalled by the keyboard lateral direction.
- IS LATERAL SENSED If at IS LATERAL SENSED is yes then COMPUTE WHICH DIRECTION by testing which side or triangulate to see the angled direction, then LOAD FUNCTION EQUAL DIRECTION and go to MATCH KEY OR OUTPUT FUNCTION. If at IS LATERAL SENSED is no then test IS SENSED OSCILLATING to see if the signal is changing, then test IS SENSED AFTER 80% is no then go to MATCH KEY OR OUTPUT FUNCTION. If IS SENSED AFTER 80% is yes then compute after pressure by reading and storing the first amplitude, compare with next amplitude and count the time verses amplitude using a percent to equal after pressure.
- FIG. 26 is the micro processor schematic for a keyboard.
- Keyboard micro processor 200 has various ports under control of the firmware, one such port 202 is shown labeled PH referring to Port H, these ports control the input/output of the keyboard, turning on and off the emitters and detectors, and detecting varying voltage amplitudes from the detectors.
- One such input/output is shown at keyboard connector 204 , others shown are for MIDI, FM, IR, MOUSE and USB.
- FIG. 27 shows a typical detector matrix
- FIG. 28 shows the detectors matching typical emitter matrix, and depending on the number of detectors and emitters needed in a given keyboard these typical matrixes can be decreased or increased to match the application.
- PFET 220 is turned on to give a positive bias to signal resistor 222 by output port 221
- NFET 229 is turned on to give a negative bias to the cathode of detector 226 by port 221 .
- a voltage amplitude is then seen over A/D resister 222 and at A/D input port 225 .
- This voltage amplitude will then vary depending on the amount of light that is emitted to detector 226 .
- the amount of light that can be emitted to the detector is governed by the position of the key stem, one such is key stem 30 of FIG. 1 . If the key stem or interrupter is not depressed then the majority of light from an emitter is received by the detector, then depending on the amount of depression by the user on the key stem varying amounts of light will be seen as voltage amplitude changes at port 225 .
- Isolation diode 228 isolates detector 226 to maintain proper voltage bias.
- PFET 230 is turned on by port 234 to give a positive bias to emitter 232 through current limiting resistor 231 .
- NFET 233 is then turned on by port 234 the give a negative bias to emitter 232 thus illuminating emitter 232 .
- Using a matrix like is shown in FIG. 27 has two distinct advantages, one being a power saving in overall current drain from the host because the detectors are alternatively turned on, and two, isolating detector emitter pairs to limit cross talk between different detector emitter pairs.
- FIG. 29 it shows a similar sensor matrix as in FIG. 26 with the exception the sensors are pressure sensitive and do not need an opposing emitter matrix.
- PFET 240 is turned on to give a positive bias to signal resistor 248 by output port 252
- NFET 250 is turned on to give a negative bias sensor 244 by port 252 .
- a voltage amplitude is then seen over A/D resister 248 and at A/D input port 246 . This voltage amplitude will then vary depending on the amount of pressure that is applied to the key stem to sensor 244 .
- the amount of pressure that can be applied to the sensor is governed by the position of the key stem.
- Isolation diode 242 isolates sensor 244 to maintain proper voltage bias.
Abstract
A key switch to sense and give feedback to a computer of depth, acceleration, velocity, and lateral or vibrato movement. The key switch is suitable for computer keyboards, musical keyboards, foot pedals and the like. Lateral or sideward key movements can be for mouse functions or multi code output from multi directional key movement from one key outputting a single key code or key sequences.
Description
- This application is a continuation application of U.S. Ser. No. 11/189,957 filed Jul. 27, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. ______, the complete contents being herein incorporated by reference.
- Design of the optical switch with depth and lateral articulation used in the practice of this invention can be as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,705,783, 6,853,366, 5,502,460 and 5,644,338 in which are herein incorporated by reference.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention generally relates to a rugged switch to be used in musical keyboards, computer keyboards, foot switches and the like wherein the sensing means in rugged applications is not below the switch operating means to be damaged by operator finger pressure.
- 2. Description of the Prior Art
- Musical keyboards are being manufactured with force sensing resistors (FSR) to enable the musician to press hard and play loud notes and the press soft and to play soft notes one such U.S. Patent is U.S. Pat. No. 5,619,003, Hotz.
- Microsoft patent application publication US2005/0057515, Mar. 17, 2005 shows a FSR below each key position on a computer keyboard to be used to show the force applied, and discloses this applied force can be used for various functions in operating a computer.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,278,557, Stokes et al, shows a cursor positioning feature using FSR's as a strain gage.
- Compaq U.S. Pat. No. 6,204,839m Mar. 20, 2001 discloses a force sensing computer keyboard using capacitive technology to be used for various functions in operating a computer. It also discloses by moving your fingers across the top of keys in a direction the cursor will follow.
- Foot switches are being manufactured with variable resistors to vary the speed of motors and other industrial equipment.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,528,235, Lin et al, shows a key that can be depressed on each of it's four sides and give an output.
- It is therefor the primary objective of this invention in rugged applications to have an optical sensor with a sensing means for a switch position that is not in contact or beneath the switch stem being positionally sensed making the operation of the switch rugged and impervious to a striking or operating force.
- It is a further objective of this invention to have an optical sensor sense the position of the depth of the key and in the process of getting to a depth, have lateral articulation to enable a multiple directional selection of various computer input functions.
- It is a further objective of this invention is key position can be measured independent of pressure, or with a pressure that is comfortable to an operated and not dependant on a force sensing element requirement, as with handicap persons that cannot apply suitable pressure to a force sensing element.
- It is a further objective of this invention when used as a musical instrument to detect the depth position of a key against a spring or rubber pad, or the like to give resistance in the downward position to vary amplitude of a note.
- It is a further object of this invention when being used in a musical instrument when the key is in a downward position the key can be articulated in a bilateral direction to modify the note or give a vibrato effect.
- It is a further object of this invention when used in non-rugged applications to have force sensing elements to detect depth and lateral articulation.
- It is a further object of the invention to be used in plurality in at least a computer keyboard, a dual function computer/musical keyboard or a musical keyboard.
- It is a further object of this invention to allow a foot switch with multiple directional outputs when being used for musical, computer or industrial applications, and when varying the multiple directional outputs emit no electrical noise.
- Briefly, this invention contemplates having a least one key cap and key interrupter or stem disposed through a pivot and sliding surface wherein the stem is banked by at least one optically emitter detector pair with a optical beam there between. The key interrupter blocks or partially blocks the optical beam giving key location detection thus eliminating contact with the sensing means. The key can then be articulated in a lateral or sideward direction to vary the optical beam emission to the detector to input computer commands or when used to play music either on a qwerty type keyboard or musical keyboard to give a vibrato effect.
- The foregoing and other objects, aspects and advantages will be better understood from the following detailed description of the invention with reference to the drawings, in which:
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FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a optical switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with optical position and sideward detection and a tension element for resistance in a downward direction in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a optical switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with separate optical position and sideward detection and a tension element for resistance in a downward direction in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with force sensitive elements for position, lateral and bilateral detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a optical switch having a musical key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with separate optical position and sideward detection and a tension element for resistance in a downward direction in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with force sensitive elements for position and sideward detection with roller contact in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 6 is a section view through the a switch showing the key stem starting into optical detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 7 is a section view through a switch showing the key stem at a mid point through optical detection starting to contact the tension element resistance in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 8 is a section view through a switch showing the key stem through optical detection and in full contact with the tension element resistance in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 9 is a section view through a switch with position force sensing element and optical sideward detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 10 is a section through an optical switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with separate optical position and sideward detection and an elastomeric resistance with a low resistance sideward articulation ball mechanism in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 11 is a section through an optical switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with bi-directional sideward or lateral detection and an elastomeric resistance with a low resistance sideward articulation ball mechanism with pressure sensing downward detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 12 is a cross section view of a optical switch having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with optical position and sideward detection and an elastomeric resistance in a downward direction beneath the stem in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 13 is a section view of a optical switch in a depressed position having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with optical position and sideward detection and a tension element for resistance in a downward direction beneath the stem in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 14 is a cross section through a computer or musical keyboard showing multiple optical switches in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 15 is a partial section view through an optical foot switch in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 16 is a plan view of a dual screen notebook computer with a velocity, acceleration, and lateral detection keys used in a split keyboard in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 17 is a section view of an optical switch with mirrors to direct the optical beam in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 18 is a section view of an optical switch with a serrated lower key stem to detect position and change in lateral position of the key stem in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 19 is an electrical schematic of an optical switch in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 20 is an electrical schematic of a pressure sensitive switch in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 21 is a section view of a switch with optical and pressure sensing elements for downward detection and low resistance roller for lateral detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 22 is a side view of a keyboard with optical key detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 23 is a plan view of a keyboard with optical key detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 24 is a plan view of a musical keyboard with optical key detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 25 is a flow diagram illustrating the keyboard functions with key stem and sideward articulation detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 26 is a schematic illustrating the microprocessor section of a keyboard with key stem position and sideward articulation detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 27 is a schematic illustrating the elements of a typical optical detector matrix of a keyboard in accordance with the teachings of this invention; -
FIG. 28 is a schematic illustrating the elements of a typical optical emitter matrix of a keyboard in accordance with the teachings of this invention; and -
FIG. 29 is a schematic illustrating the elements of a typical pressure sensitive matrix of a keyboard in accordance with the teachings of this invention. - Referring now to the drawings, in which the same reference numeral indicates the same element in the various figures,
FIG. 1 shows atop surface 14 with pivot and slidingopening 13 allowingkey stem 30 to slide in an up down direction as shown by up downarrow 32 and pivot or be sideward articulated as shown by upperlateral arrow 10.Key stem 30 having anoptical opening 22 withoptical opening top 34. Whenkey stem 30 moves in a downward directionoptical opening 22 with sides that straddlelight beam 20 and allowslight beam 20 to pass through untiloptical opening top 34 attenuateslight beam 20 giving the position ofstem 30.Emitter 28 anddetector 16 can be mounted on printedwiring board 18 that can have circuitry to modulate the on and off conditions of each.Elastomeric pad 26 is disposed on printedwiring board 18. Whenelastomeric pad 26 or tension element is contacted bykey stem 30,key cap 12 can be pivoted in a sideward direction. The resultant pivot direction ofkey stem 30 from upperlateral arrow 10 is shown by lowerlateral arrow 24 and the sides ofoptical opening 22 modifies the resultant emitence oflight beam 20 emitted fromemitter 28 and incident ondetector 16. The clearance betweenkey stem 30 and pivot and slidingopening 13 can be matched to a users preference in as much as more clearance to get more angle of pivot to less clearance to get less angle of movement. At any time from whenlight beam 20 starts to be attenuated measurements can be made from that point until or during resistance has been felt byelastomeric pad 26 to equal velocity and acceleration from an operator pushingkey cap 12. From the point that resistance is felt measurements can be made that can equal after pressure optically, or the amount of compressionelastomeric pad 26 is being compressed optically. Tension elements likeelastomeric pad 26 can be made from different durometer elastomers or other spring type components to give the feel conducive to an operator's preference. After pressure can be plus or minus so if the operator presses harder then softer the distance traveled can be equated to a computer function or when used in a musical instrument a louder or softer tone or note. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the elements shown inFIG. 1 could be replicated to form a multi-key keyboard. -
Elastomeric pad 26 is not a requirement to be used to detect the depth in position ofkey stem 30, in some systems it may just be a stop to stop the downward motion ofkey cap 12. Ifelastomeric pad 26 is not used depth can be measured through the attenuated range ofoptical beam 20, velocity from a point to a point can be measured, and acceleration can be measured because all measurements are in distance. This can be advantageous for an operator to use position in place of pressure, as in musical notes from a Trombone where notes are from the position of the slide, or for a handicap person that cannot apply a force sensing elements required force to get a pleasing output. - The tension element
elastomeric pad 26 can be of the type used inFIG. 6 where thatelastomeric pad 72 is placed in thekey cap 12. - When
key cap 12 is pivoted or oscillated in a sideward directionlight beam 20 will be attenuated by the sides ofoptical opening 22 and can be measured as a distance to give acceleration and velocity, these measurements can equal a computer function or when playing music it can equal a vibrato effect. This is advantageous when oscillated to be able to have music actually sound as if it was coming from an actual musical instrument where sideward movement of a musicians fingers affect the mouth piece mouth relationship giving a varying intensity or vibrato effect. This is also advantageous when pivoted by a computer operator to input a function, like pivot the keyboard key to the left and get Ctrl+V to paste, and pivot the key to the right and get Ctrl+C to copy. When switch ofFIG. 1 is used in a keyboard in plurality each key could output the same code or sequence of codes allowing ctrl+C or ctrl+V or any other code or sequence available with any typing finger while inputting data or playing music. -
FIG. 2 having the similar elements asFIG. 1 with the addition of asecond emitter 44 andsecond detector 42 having a secondoptical beam 38 there between being attenuated in the up down direction by second optical openingtop 40 inkey stem 31 and attenuated in the front to back direction shown by upper front backarrow 46 giving a resultant movement in direction shown by lower front backarrow 48 by secondoptical opening 36. Having two emitter detector pairs bi-directional alignment allows selection of computer or musical functions in four directions or by triangulation in multiple directions, and when the output is directed to a mouse port can give cursor control. -
FIG. 3 shows a switch in systems that do not require the rugged optical elements, shown with lowerforce sensing element 54 for depth, acceleration and velocity measurements flanked by left sidepressure sensing element 50 and right sidepressure sensing element 52 to be pressured byleft force member 58 andright force member 56 whenkey stem 29 is moved or oscillated in the direction of lowerlateral arrow 24. Bilateralpressure sensing element 53 to be pressured byside force member 55 can be perpendicular to left side pressuresensitive element 50 and right side pressuresensitive element 52 and opposed by a second bilateralpressure sensing element 51. When the application necessitates quad lateral detection for input data to a host computer or the like this arrangement of four pressure sensitive elements is advantageous. But any one of the four can be used when singular lateral detection is only needed. It should be appreciated that those skilled in the art that there are different force sensing elements to name two are resistive and capacitive either or others could be used, and in conjunction with position sensing elements like hall effect sensors, magnet sensors and RF based sensors. -
FIG. 4 shows a musical key 60 being used to positionstem 61.Optical slot 64 is made wide as not to attenuate secondoptical beam 38 enabling in the up down direction to be attenuated byoptical slot top 62 inkey stem 61, and can have pressureresistive pad 23 if resistance to downward key motion is desired. If another output function is needed pressureresistive element 23 can be pressure sensitive so when pressed sending other codes depending on the application. This is advantageous so there is only one optical beam per function facilitating less computation, like a first function could be up down and a second function be side ward or lateral for vibrato and other inputs. -
FIG. 5 shows a switch in systems that is more rugged than the switch inFIG. 3 by having the addition of low resistant rollers for side ward pressure. Lowerforce sensing element 54 for being used for depth, acceleration and velocity measurements flanked by left sideforce sensing element 50 and right sideforce sensing element 52 to be pressured byleft force roller 68 andright force roller 66 whenstem 30 is moved or oscillated in the direction of lowerlateral arrow 24. -
FIG. 6 is a section view of a switch that has the elastomeric material under the key cap.Key stem 70 being pivotably and slideably received in pivot and slidingsurface 19 is shown beforeoptical beam 20 is attenuated bylower surface 17 ofkey stem 70.Elastomer pad 72 is shown prior to contacting pivot and slidingopening 75.Key stem spring 74 holds key stem in an up position being restrained in the up direction bykey stem retainer 15 awaiting depression from an operator. -
FIG. 7 is a section view of a switch withlower surface 17 in a mid position attenuatingoptical beam 20, and in first contact withelastomer pad 72.Phantom line 73 shows the starting or up position ofkey cap 71. -
FIG. 8 is a section view of a switch withkey cap 71 reaching the extent of downward travel ofkey stem 70 compressingelastomer pad 72 andlower surface 17 further attenuatingoptical beam 20. -
FIG. 9 is a section view of a switch that uses optical lateral or vibrato detection and a force sensing element for depth, acceleration and velocity.Key stem 76 is shown in an up position withoptical beam 20 being straddled byoptical opening 78. Whereas when lateral movement is made bykey stem 76 shown bylateral arrow 82optical beam 20 is attenuated by the sides ofoptical opening 78 to be calculated by electronic circuit as shown inFIG. 26 and flow chart inFIG. 25 to give distance, velocity and cycle times.Pressure foot 74 will contactforce sensing element 80 whenkey stem 76 is in a down position.Pressure foot 74 can be an elastomer of other spring type material. This is advantageous to give better sideward or lateral movement control in applications that want lower pressure for vibrato when in constant contact with forcesensitive element 80. - It is known in the art that FSR's have a force verses resistance relationship such as 0.35 oz. with 10 ohms resistance, 3.57 oz. with 10K ohms resistance or otherwise a direct relationship, but the distance of travel to obtain this resistance change is virtually zero. So it can be advantageous to use an elastomeric pad to contact the pressure sensitive element and although the change in resistance is not as great, the durometer of the elastomeric pad allows for more distance to be traveled by the key stem giving a better feel and protecting the FSR from damage resulting from severe force.
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FIG. 10 is a section view of a switch in whichkey stem 84 has apivot ball 96 to allow full sideward articulation in 360 degrees.Ball slide 98 slides up and down in pivot and slidingopening 94 as shown by up and downarrow 88. Key stemlower surface 93 attenuatesoptical beam 91 in the up down direction. The sides ofoptical opening 95 attenuates crossingoptical beam 97 in the direction of upperlateral arrow 10.Alignment surface 92 is nested in pivot and slidingopening 94 keepingkey stem 84 in a neutral position untilkey stem 84 is pressed in a down direction allow articulation ofkey stem 84 aboutpivot ball 96. Elastomer pad O-ring 90 is shown to limit downward travel and to give resistance to the movement ofkey stem 84. -
FIG. 11 is a section view of a switch showing similar elements ofFIG. 10 butkey stem 85 is longer and remains inoptical beam 91 and crossingoptical beam 97.Optical opening 95 and crossingoptical opening 93 straddlingoptical beam 91 and crossingoptical beam 97 unattenuating each until lateral articulation is started. By having two crossing optical beams being articulated triangulation can be made to direct a cursor or other computer function with a small amount of force.Alignment surface 92 as explained inFIG. 10 is optional depending on designer preference in as much as ifalignment surface 92 is used then an operator moving their fingers over the key surface will not allow any attenuation of position, attenuation will only occur after depressingkey stem 85 thus releasing movement to allow attenuation. Then ifalignment surface 92 is not there then attenuation of position can be at anytime thekey stem 85 is moved.Force sensing element 89 detects the up down key position with varying pressure fromkey stem 85. -
FIG. 12 is a section view of a switch showingkey stem 112 in an up position prior to attenuatingoptical beam 108 withoptical slot top 106. -
FIG. 13 is a section view of a switch ofFIG. 12 showingkey stem 112 in a downward position fromphantom line 73 attenuatingoptical beam 108 withoptical slot top 106 and in first contact withelastomeric pad 110. It should be appreciated thatkey stem 112 could also haveroller contact 79 like is shown inFIG. 21 to reduce the lateral force being applied tokey stem 112 while in contact withelastomeric pad 110. -
FIG. 14 is a section view of a keyboard showing the switch ofFIG. 6 in plurality. Withkey stem 70,optical beam 20, printed wiring board 118 being housed inupper housing 114 andlower housing 116. Having a plurality of switches allows the keyboard to be used for various functions as in input computer codes to a host, position a cursor, input cursor left, right and scroll codes to a host, input Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) commands for playing music, or input computer codes for playing music on a PC. -
FIG. 15 is a partial section view of a foot switch or foot pedal havingkey stem 70 andoptical beam 20 housed within uppermoveable housing 120 andlower housing 122 withpivot 124 there between to allow movement ofkey stem 70 throughoptical beam 20 wherein movement can be varied by depressingupper housing 120 to vary the output resultant from attenuatingoptical beam 20. -
FIG. 16 shows a notebook computer withrear display 128 mounted inrear housing 126 attached tolower housing 132 laterally adjoined by left side articulatedkey keyboard 136 and right side articulatedkey keyboard 130 which can be fitted with any of the key switches heretofore mentioned. A separate mouse positioning apparatus is not needed because any one or more of the keys can have mouse like articulation heretofore mentioned in delineation ofFIG. 2 andFIG. 11 .Lower display 134 is disposed onlower housing 132. The arrangement of keys is split at a point to optimize typing or use of the keyboard. This is also an ergonomically advantageous of keys and display to keep your wrist straight, and if you are typing or playing music your reference material, sheet music, or the like can be placed onlower display 134 to keep your neck straight and avoid looking to the side. Left side articulatedkey keyboard 136 and right side articulatedkey keyboard 130 can in a fixed position or if the notebook computer is going to be used for travel then they can be made to retract overlower display 134. In as much asFIG. 16 is presented as a notebook computer it should be appreciated that those skilled in the art could think of the notebook computer with very limited function as in just for playing music, or just a split keyboard for use with a computer or musical instrument with a surface for reference material like sheet music or web notes. -
FIG. 17 shows a different arrangement for directingoptical beam 142 being emitted fromemitter 140 and being detected bydetector 144. Usingemitter mirror 138 anddetector mirror 146 bothemitter 140 anddetector 144 can be surface mounted on printedwiring board 141 to facilitate high production assembly of the switch and or a keyboard. -
FIG. 18 shows emitter 154 emitting a divergentoptical beam 156 and being reflected byserrated detection surface 152 on the lower surface ofkey stem 150 and back throughdetector beam 160 todetector 158. When key 150 is moved in the approximate arc shown bylower arc 148 this movement attenuates thedetector beam 160 and to show sideward or lateral movement ofkey stem 150. Down ward detection can be made by the ever decreasing amount of optical beam incident ondetector 158 as key stem gets closure todetector 158. -
FIG. 19 shows emitter 162 anddetector 164 are the only electrical components needed in a singular optical key switch. -
FIG. 20 shows pressuresensitive element 166 is the only electrical component needed in a singular pressure sensitive key switch. The pressure sensing element can be but not limited to pressure sensing resistor or a pressuring sensing capacitor type component, and as shown inFIG. 21 there can be multiple pressure sensors to sense lateral positions. And although only three are shown inFIG. 21 it is to be understood by those experienced in the art that more or less could be used to increase or decrease sensitivity in the lateral direction as shown by laterallower arrow 82. -
FIG. 21 is a section view of a switch withroller contact 79 to apply pressure to pressure sensitive element 81 and to allow lateral movement in the direction of laterallower arrow 82 bykey stem 89 being pivotably and slideably received in pivot and slidingsurface 75 allowing the sides ofoptical opening 100 to attenuateoptical beam 85 being emitted fromemitter 87. As an option pressure sensitive element 81 can be flanked by left pressure sensitive element 83 and right pressure sensitive element 77 allowing whenkey stem 89 is laterally articulatedroller contact 79 can apply pressure to left pressure sensitive element 83 or right pressure sensitive element 77 to output a vibrato type of output or a code or codes to a host. This is advantageous to allow lower pressure on a key or persons finger when laterally articulating. The width of the pressure sensing elements can be varied to better optimize either vibrato or computer key output movements. Pressure sensitive element 83 could also be an elastomeric pad likeelastomeric pad 110 as inFIG. 13 when the downward direction is to be sensed byoptical beam 85 eliminating the need for pressure sensitive elements.Optical opening 100 is a hole throughkey stem 89 withoptical beam 85 there through can alternately be enabled after contact is made byroller contact 79 on pressure sensitive 81 to lesson any ambiguous attenuation ofoptical beam 85. - The downward direction can also be sensed by pressure sensitive element 81 and in the lateral direction by lateral signature detection whereas the rolling effect is measured and results to be different than a singular downward pressure.
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FIG. 22 is a side view of the keyboard showed inFIG. 22 showingkey cap 12,upper housing 170 andlower housing 168. -
FIG. 23 is a plan view of a keyboard showingkey cap 12 andupper housing 170 can have a plurality of keys for computer input to either playing music or normal operation of a PC. The pattern number of keys can be varied to match a particular application. -
FIG. 24 is a plan view of a keyboard with along key 174 andupper housing 172 with a musical pattern of keys. The number of keys can be varied to match a particular set of notes or have a piano set of 88. -
FIG. 25 is a firmware flow chart showing key detection and detection of velocity, acceleration and sideward or lateral key movement of a keyboard with a plurality of key switches. With a singular key switch there is no firmware needed with the switch it would be provided by the host device, this flow chart is to be used when a plurality of key switches are used on a keyboard. The flow chart is shown being generic and can relate to optical or proximity sensors or pressure sensitive components. - In INITIALIZE ports are set to be in either input or output conditions depending on use, ram is tested, and start up sequence with the host is preformed. At SCAN KEY MATRIX a scan is made to store a base line set of vales showing starting point where no keys are pressed. A 100% number is assigned to each detector and is based on the baseline value so all detectors can be computed and said to be equal, in applications where more precise calculations are needed for key articulation then a linearization would need to be done on each sensor and that value put in a table to be called when a percent of amplitude is needed. A scan is made to check if a key has been detected at SCAN FOR KEY. A value of 80%, this value can be changed to match a particular switch or keyboard application need, is used at
IS DETECTOR 80% SENSED to see if a key has reached a down or interim position signaling the end of detection or just before after pressure will be tested, if no then a test is made for detector being sensed less than 10% or not sensed atIS DETECTOR 10% SENSED, no then a test is made to see if the host is sending at IS HOST SENDING, if no then a return to SCAN FOR KEY. - If at IS HOST SENDING is yes then RECEIVE HOST DATA, RESPOND TO HOST if necessary and return to SCAN FOR KEY. If at IS
DETECTOR 10% SENSED the sensed signal is above 10% then COMPUTE ACCELERATION, by reading and storing the first amplitude, compare with next amplitude and count the time verses amplitude using a percent to equal an acceleration. Then COMPUTE VELOCITY in the same way using a percent to equal Velocity. The MATCH KEY OR OUTPUT FUNCTION to a key or output function and SEND CODE TO HOST in a data string with key code being first and the second being a data byte to equal acceleration and velocity. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that three bytes could be sent, one for each function, key code, acceleration and velocity, or in a computer keyboard where only a key code is needed then only be one byte. These bytes can be either PS2 codes, ASCII codes or a custom code derived for speed of transfer over a standard PS2 link or other data link systems like USB, serial or parallel, or to the 31250 baud MIDI specification. - If yes at
IS DETECTOR 80% SENSED a test is made at IS LATERAL SENSED to see if a sideward or lateral articulation is being made. This is done by testing if the side sensors have a change is sensed value. This test could also be made prior toIS DETECTOR 80% SENSED and is advantageous in applications where lateral movement is made for other computer or musical products like a mouse pointing device or for use by a handicap person that cannot produce the force necessary to attain 80% pressure, or in the case of the musical instrument where lateral movement is vibrato and the vibrato is wanted above 80%, or to enter codes or sequences of code like ctrl+C for copy and ctrl+V for paste, any of which can be programmed into the keyboard or computer to be recalled by the keyboard lateral direction. If at IS LATERAL SENSED is yes then COMPUTE WHICH DIRECTION by testing which side or triangulate to see the angled direction, then LOAD FUNCTION EQUAL DIRECTION and go to MATCH KEY OR OUTPUT FUNCTION. If at IS LATERAL SENSED is no then test IS SENSED OSCILLATING to see if the signal is changing, then test IS SENSED AFTER 80% is no then go to MATCH KEY OR OUTPUT FUNCTION. If IS SENSED AFTER 80% is yes then compute after pressure by reading and storing the first amplitude, compare with next amplitude and count the time verses amplitude using a percent to equal after pressure. After pressure is more commonly used in musical instruments when a key is held down, then the musician can press harder and get a louder note, or now with the ever changing need for more function from a computer or keyboard the after pressure can be equated and assigned any function code like a mouse, key, or a series of codes as in ctrl+V for paste. Then go to MATCH KEY OR OUTPUT FUNCTION. - If at IS SENSED OSCILLATING is yes then by computing a oscillation of the amplitude rising and falling at a rate being done at COMPUTE OSCILLATION and got to MATCH KEY OR OUTPUT FUNCTION where a data code value is assigned for the oscillation signature whether it be vibrato or other assigned functions.
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FIG. 26 is the micro processor schematic for a keyboard.Keyboard micro processor 200 has various ports under control of the firmware, onesuch port 202 is shown labeled PH referring to Port H, these ports control the input/output of the keyboard, turning on and off the emitters and detectors, and detecting varying voltage amplitudes from the detectors. One such input/output is shown atkeyboard connector 204, others shown are for MIDI, FM, IR, MOUSE and USB. - The quantities of keys vary with different keyboards for different applications as shown in
FIG. 16 ,FIG. 22 and inFIG. 24 .FIG. 27 shows a typical detector matrix, andFIG. 28 shows the detectors matching typical emitter matrix, and depending on the number of detectors and emitters needed in a given keyboard these typical matrixes can be decreased or increased to match the application. Inoperation PFET 220 is turned on to give a positive bias to signalresistor 222 by output port 221, at thesame time NFET 229 is turned on to give a negative bias to the cathode ofdetector 226 by port 221. A voltage amplitude is then seen over A/D resister 222 and at A/D input port 225. This voltage amplitude will then vary depending on the amount of light that is emitted todetector 226. The amount of light that can be emitted to the detector is governed by the position of the key stem, one such iskey stem 30 ofFIG. 1 . If the key stem or interrupter is not depressed then the majority of light from an emitter is received by the detector, then depending on the amount of depression by the user on the key stem varying amounts of light will be seen as voltage amplitude changes atport 225.Isolation diode 228 isolatesdetector 226 to maintain proper voltage bias. - In
FIG. 28 PFET 230 is turned on byport 234 to give a positive bias toemitter 232 through current limitingresistor 231.NFET 233 is then turned on byport 234 the give a negative bias toemitter 232 thus illuminatingemitter 232. Using a matrix like is shown inFIG. 27 has two distinct advantages, one being a power saving in overall current drain from the host because the detectors are alternatively turned on, and two, isolating detector emitter pairs to limit cross talk between different detector emitter pairs. - In
FIG. 29 it shows a similar sensor matrix as inFIG. 26 with the exception the sensors are pressure sensitive and do not need an opposing emitter matrix. Inoperation PFET 240 is turned on to give a positive bias to signalresistor 248 byoutput port 252, at thesame time NFET 250 is turned on to give anegative bias sensor 244 byport 252. A voltage amplitude is then seen over A/D resister 248 and at A/D input port 246. This voltage amplitude will then vary depending on the amount of pressure that is applied to the key stem tosensor 244. The amount of pressure that can be applied to the sensor is governed by the position of the key stem. If the key stem is not depressed then there is no pressure onsensor 244, then depending on the amount of depression by the user on the key stem varying amounts of pressure will be seen as voltage amplitude changes atport 246.Isolation diode 242 isolatessensor 244 to maintain proper voltage bias. - While the invention has been described in terms of a single preferred embodiment, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
Claims (18)
1. A switch, comprising in combination:
a key cap adjoined to a key stem;
at least one lateral sensing element to sense lateral movement of said key stem and provide measures of lateral attenuation when said key stem has said lateral movement;
said at least one lateral sensing element is separate from said key stem allowing said key stem to slide free from said at least one lateral sensing element in a downward direction;
said key stem has said lateral movement until said lateral attenuation stops; and
whereas said measures of said lateral attenuation equate to one or more lateral positions of said key stem at least one of which is a position prior to said key stem reaching a point where lateral attenuation stops.
2. A switch as claimed in claim 1 further including
at least one downward sensing element to sense said key stem when in said downward position to give downward attenuation; and
whereas an amount of said downward attenuation equates to at least one downward position.
3. A switch as claimed in claim 2 further including
a pressure pad configured to give a tactile first stop position when said key stem is restrained from further downward attenuation from said down position.
4. A switch as claimed in claim 3 , whereas
the hardness of said pressure pad adjusts said restraint for further attenuation downward from said down position.
5. A switch as claimed in claim 2 , further including
an electronic circuit configured to scan said at least one downward sensing element and detect when said key stem is downwardly positioned on said at least one downward sensing element and output said downward position to a host.
6. A switch as claimed in claim 1 , further including
an electronic circuit configured to scan said at least one lateral sensing element and detect when said key stem is laterally positioned and output said lateral position to a host.
7. A switch as claimed in claim 1 wherein
said key cap is part of a keyboard for a computer.
8. A switch as claimed in claim 1 wherein
said key cap is part of a musical instrument.
9. A switch as claimed in claim 1 wherein
said key cap is part of a foot switch.
10. A switch as claimed in claim 5 further including
means to calculate velocity equating between a first pressure to a second pressure on said at least one down sensing elements output said velocity to a host.
11. A switch as claimed in claim 2 further including
means to calculate said downward position to be the acceleration of said key stem on said at least one downward sensing element and means to output said acceleration to said host.
12. A switch as claimed in claim 1 further including
means to identify oscillation on said at least one lateral sensing element and means to output an indication of said oscillation to said host.
13. A switch as claimed in claim 1 further including
means to output an indication of said lateral position as at least one function to said host.
14. A switch as claimed in claim 1 further including
at least one bilateral sensing element to sense bilateral movement of said key stem and give bilateral attenuation; and
wherein the amount of said bilateral attenuation equates to at least one bilateral position prior to said key stem reaching a side stop.
15. A switch as claimed in claim 14 , further including
means to output a bilateral position as at least one function to said host.
16. A switch as claimed in claim 1 , wherein
said lateral sensing element is pressure sensitive.
17. A switch as claimed in claim 1 , wherein
said lateral sensing element is optical.
18. A switch as claimed in claim 2 , wherein
said downward sensing element is pressure sensitive.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/903,315 US20110025607A1 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2010-10-13 | Switch with Depth and Lateral Articulation Detection |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/189,957 US7855715B1 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2005-07-27 | Switch with depth and lateral articulation detection using optical beam |
US12/903,315 US20110025607A1 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2010-10-13 | Switch with Depth and Lateral Articulation Detection |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/189,957 Continuation US7855715B1 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2005-07-27 | Switch with depth and lateral articulation detection using optical beam |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20110025607A1 true US20110025607A1 (en) | 2011-02-03 |
Family
ID=39100954
Family Applications (5)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/189,957 Expired - Fee Related US7855715B1 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2005-07-27 | Switch with depth and lateral articulation detection using optical beam |
US12/903,329 Expired - Fee Related US7982716B2 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2010-10-13 | Switch with depth and lateral articulation detection |
US12/903,315 Abandoned US20110025607A1 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2010-10-13 | Switch with Depth and Lateral Articulation Detection |
US13/527,190 Expired - Fee Related US8648737B1 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2012-06-19 | Telephone keypad with multidirectional keys |
US14/150,030 Expired - Fee Related US9141201B2 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2014-01-08 | Telephone keypad with multidirectional keys |
Family Applications Before (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/189,957 Expired - Fee Related US7855715B1 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2005-07-27 | Switch with depth and lateral articulation detection using optical beam |
US12/903,329 Expired - Fee Related US7982716B2 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2010-10-13 | Switch with depth and lateral articulation detection |
Family Applications After (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/527,190 Expired - Fee Related US8648737B1 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2012-06-19 | Telephone keypad with multidirectional keys |
US14/150,030 Expired - Fee Related US9141201B2 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2014-01-08 | Telephone keypad with multidirectional keys |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (5) | US7855715B1 (en) |
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US8927890B2 (en) | 2011-03-07 | 2015-01-06 | Synaptics Incorporated | Capacitive keyswitch technologies |
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US11469060B1 (en) | 2021-04-30 | 2022-10-11 | Logitech Europe S.A. | Light guide for a keyboard |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US9141201B2 (en) | 2015-09-22 |
US7855715B1 (en) | 2010-12-21 |
US7982716B2 (en) | 2011-07-19 |
US8648737B1 (en) | 2014-02-11 |
US20110026997A1 (en) | 2011-02-03 |
US20140132522A1 (en) | 2014-05-15 |
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Legal Events
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