Keyboard
Patent 4366463 Issued on December 28, 1982. Estimated Expiration Date: 
May 22, 2001. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.
May 22, 2001. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.Patent References 3488613 3617600 3858145 Self-restoring changeable exhibitor/keyboard Patent #: 3954085 InventorAssigneeApplicationNo. 06/266288 filed on 05/22/1981US Classes:338/69, Musical instrument playing key actuated338/32H, Hall effect341/32Magnetic or inductive actuationExaminersPrimary: Albritton, C. L.Attorney, Agent or FirmInternational ClassesH03K 17/972 (20060101)H03K 17/94 (20060101) AbstractA data entry device durable enough to withstand the rigors of industrial type usage in which the electronic components are isolated from the external environment is described. The device comprises a molded elastomer keyboard matrix with thin stainless steel keypads. Embedded into the elastomer beneath the keys are small magnets. Solid state Hall-effect switches are mounted at a predetermined distance from the magnets and are separated from them by a magnetically permeable stainless steel sheet which forms part of the enclosure isolating the electronic components from the environment. Depressing one of the keys on the elastomer matrix moves its associated magnet toward the respective Hall-effect device, causing a change in current which may be sensed by other electronic components. Because of the elastomer material, the keys spring back when released. | |
