Victor K. Maynard - Niceville FL Kendall C. Maynard - Niceville FL Ruth Smith - Niceville FL Claire Calano - Niceville FL
Assignee:
Kidtech, Inc. - Niceville FL
International Classification:
G09G 500
US Classification:
345168
Abstract:
In one embodiment, the method and related apparatus for configuring and operating a computer keyboard includes providing a personal computer system having a monitor, central processing unit, memory, sound generator and a keyboard input/output interface. The keyboard is substantially flat and has a planar user interface surface with a plurality of discrete membrane switches protruding a small distance (less than one-eighth of an inch) above the surface. In addition, each switch is circumscribed by a key channel. The domes of each membrane switch enhance the tactile response to the child or young adult learning to use the keyboard because upon depression of the key face, the dome deforms into a concave shape and closes a normally open circuit junction in a key switch matrix beneath the user interface surface. The method as well as the apparatus electrically blocks the generation of multiple digital key strike signals whether based upon continual actuation of one of the key switches (i. e. , continual depression of a single key) or whether based on actuation of a plurality of key switches within a pre-determined time period.