CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part (CIP) of United States Patent Application Serial Number 14/217,823, filed on March 18, 2014, which in turn claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application Serial Number 61/807,984, filed on April 3, 2013. All of the above applications are herein fully incorporated by reference for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Generally, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to keys. More particularly, some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to multi-chamber keys. Additionally or alternatively, some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to input technologies and, more particularly, to user input mechanisms.

BACKGROUND

[0003] In the present disclosure, where a document, an act and/or an item of knowledge is referred to and/or discussed, whether directly and/or indirectly, then this reference and/or discussion is not an admission that the document, the act and/or the item of knowledge and/or any combination thereof was at the priority date, publicly available, known to the public, part of common general knowledge and/or otherwise constitutes prior art under the applicable statutory provisions and/or is known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which the present disclosure is concerned.

[0004] Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a medical condition affecting many people worldwide. CTS is commonly believed to result from a combination of factors. One of such factors often involves extensive computer keyboard use. Resultantly, whether at workplace, at school and/or at home, many computer keyboard users are advised to adjust their surroundings, reduce stress on hands/wrists, position themselves properly and/or perform hands/wrists exercises. Similarly, at least due to potential reduction in worker productivity, many corporations are now taking action, such as modifying/replacing work equipment and/or changing work operations, in order to reduce occurrences of CTS. Although such advice and/or action have been somewhat effective, many people still suffer from CTS.

[0005] A conventional computer keyboard contains a plurality of symbolically labeled buttons, which are commonly known as keys, arranged according to a predefined layout, such as QWERTY. However, the buttons are usually not user ergonomic, which can result in finger discomfort based on repeated use.

[0006] While certain aspects of conventional technologies have been discussed to facilitate the present disclosure, no technical aspects are disclaimed. The claims may encompass one and/or more of the conventional technical aspects discussed herein.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0007] The present disclosure may at least partially address at least one of the above. However, the present disclosure may prove useful to other technical areas. Therefore, the claims should not be construed as necessarily limited to addressing any of the above.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a device comprising a key. According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the device comprises a key containing an upper closed chamber with a first gel and a lower closed chamber with a second gel. The key contains a divider portion interposedly common to the upper chamber and the lower chamber. The portion laterally traverses the key.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a device for a user input mechanism is provided. According to an example embodiment of the device for the user input mechanism, the device includes a first T-shaped structure defined via a first leg and a first platform. The device further includes a key cap with an interior open chamber. The cap is mounted onto the first structure such that the chamber contains the first platform. The device also includes a second T-shaped structure defined via a second leg and a second platform. The first leg vertically moves within the second leg such that the cap travels between a depressed position and a pressed position. The cap is raised above the second platform in the depressed position. The cap is in contact with the second platform in the pressed position.

[0010] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a typing keyboard. According to one example embodiment of the typing keyboard, the keyboard includes a first T-shaped structure defined via a first leg and a first platform. The keyboard further includes a key cap with an interior open chamber. The cap is mounted onto the first structure such that the chamber contains the first platform. The keyboard also includes a second T-shaped structure defined via a second leg and a second platform. The first leg vertically moves within the second leg such that the cap travels between a depressed position and a pressed position. The cap is raised above the second platform in the depressed position. The cap is in contact with the second platform in the pressed position. [0011] The present disclosure may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Attention is called to the fact, however, that the drawings are illustrative. Variations are contemplated as being part of the disclosure, limited only by the scope of the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The accompanying drawings illustrate example embodiments of the present disclosure. Such drawings are not to be construed as necessarily limiting the disclosure. Like numbers and/or similar numbering scheme can refer to like and/or similar elements throughout.

[0013] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key according to the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key having an upper chamber and a lower chamber according to the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 3A shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key having an upper chamber more voluminous than a lower chamber according to the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 3B shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key having an upper chamber less voluminous than a lower chamber according to the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 4A shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key where cushion gels are identical to each other according to the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 4B shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key where cushion gels are different from each other according to the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 5A shows a side view of an example embodiment of a computer key having inclined sidewalls and a curved top surface according to the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 5B shows a side view of an example embodiment of a computer key having inclined sidewalls and a linear top surface according to the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 5C shows a side view of an example embodiment of a computer key having non-inclined sidewalls and a linear top surface according to the present disclosure; [0022] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a laptop computer having a key with at least two chambers according to the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a wired computer keyboard having a key with at least two chambers according to the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a wireless computer keyboard having a key with at least two chambers according to the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a musical keyboard having a key with at least two chambers according to the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key defining an open space below a lower chamber according to the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 1 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key with at least three chambers according to the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a key mechanism according to the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 13 shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a key mechanism according to the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 14 shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a key cap in a depressed position according to the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 15 shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a key cap in a pressed position according to the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 16 shows another profile view of an example embodiment of a key mechanism according the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment a laptop computer containing a key mechanism according to the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a wired keyboard containing a key mechanism according to the present disclosure; [0035] FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a wireless keyboard containing a key mechanism according to the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a piano keyboard containing a key mechanism according to the present disclosure;

[0037] FIG. 21 shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a key cap containing a plurality of internal closed chambers according to the present disclosure;

[0038] FIG. 22A shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a platform defining a plurality of depressions according to the present disclosure;

[0039] FIG. 22B shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a platform including a plurality of projections according to the present disclosure;

[0040] FIG. 23A shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a platform defining a plurality of depressions according to the present disclosure; and

[0041] FIG. 23B shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a platform including a plurality of projections according to the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0042] The present disclosure is now described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. The present disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as necessarily being limited to the example embodiments disclosed herein. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure is thorough and complete, and fully conveys the concepts of the present disclosure to those skilled in the relevant art. In addition, features described with respect to certain example embodiments may be combined in and/or with various other example embodiments. Different aspects and/or elements of example embodiments, as disclosed herein, may be combined in a similar manner.

[0043] The terminology used herein can imply direct or indirect, full or partial, temporary or permanent, action or inaction. For example, when an element is referred to as being "on," "connected" or "coupled" to another element, then the element can be directly on, connected or coupled to the other element and/or intervening elements may be present, including indirect and/or direct variants. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements present.

[0044] Although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not necessarily be limited by such terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0045] The terminology used herein is for describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be necessarily limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "includes" and/or "comprising," "including" when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence and/or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

[0046] Example embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the present disclosure. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, the example embodiments of the present disclosure should not be construed as necessarily limited to the particular shapes of regions illustrated herein, but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.

[0047] Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can be formed from a same, structurally continuous piece, such as being unitary, and/or be separately manufactured and/or connected, such as being an assembly and/or modules. Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can be manufactured via any manufacturing processes, whether additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, and/or other any other types of manufacturing. For example, some manufacturing processes include three dimensional (3D) printing, laser cutting, computer numerical control routing, milling, pressing, stamping, vacuum forming, hydroforming, injection molding, lithography, and so forth.

[0048] Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can include, whether partially and/or fully, a solid, including a metal, a mineral, an amorphous material, a ceramic, a glass ceramic, an organic solid, such as wood and/or a polymer, such as rubber, a composite material, a semiconductor, a nanomaterial, a biomaterial and/or any combinations thereof. Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can include, whether partially and/or fully, a coating, including an informational coating, such as ink, an adhesive coating, a melt-adhesive coating, such as vacuum seal and/or heat seal, a release coating, such as tape liner, a low surface energy coating, an optical coating, such as for tint, color, hue, saturation, tone, shade, transparency, translucency, non-transparency, luminescence, reflection, anti-reflection and/or holography, a photo-sensitive coating, an electronic and/or thermal property coating, such as for passivity, insulation, resistance or conduction, a magnetic coating, a water-resistant and/or waterproof coating, a scent coating and/or any combinations thereof. Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can be rigid, flexible, and/or any other combinations thereof. Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can be identical and/or different from each other in material, shape, size, color and/or any measurable dimension, such as length, width, height, depth, area, orientation, perimeter, volume, breadth, density, temperature, resistance, and so forth.

[0049] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and should not be interpreted in an idealized and/or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0050] Furthermore, relative terms such as "below," "lower," "above," and "upper" may be used herein to describe one element's relationship to another element as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Such relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of illustrated technologies in addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if a device in the accompanying drawings were turned over, then the elements described as being on the "lower" side of other elements would then be oriented on "upper" sides of the other elements. Similarly, if the device in one of the figures were turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements would then be oriented "above" the other elements. Therefore, the example terms "below" and "lower" can encompass both an orientation of above and below.

[0051] As used herein, the term "about" and/or "substantially" refers to a +/- 10% variation from the nominal value/term. Such variation is always included in any given value/term provided herein, whether or not such variation is specifically referred thereto.

[0052] If any disclosures are incorporated herein by reference and such disclosures conflict in part and/or in whole with the present disclosure, then to the extent of conflict, and/or broader disclosure, and/or broader definition of terms, the present disclosure controls. If such disclosures conflict in part and/or in whole with one another, then to the extent of conflict, the later-dated disclosure controls.

[0053] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key according to the present disclosure. [0054] A key 100 includes a key body 102 having a plurality of sidewalls 104 meeting at a plurality of corners 106. Body 102 also includes a top surface 108 from which sidewalls 104 extend downwardly therefrom. Sidewalls 104, corners 106 and/or surface 108 can be unitary and/or an assembly. Whether inwardly and/or outwardly, any and/or entire portion of at least one of corners 106 can be rounded, curved or sharp. Sidewalls 104 can be a single wall as well. In other embodiments, corners 106 are lacking, such as when body 102 is cylindrically shaped.

[0055] Key 100 can be any key on any keyboard irrespective of keyboard illumination, keyboard function, such as standard size, laptop size, thumb-size or others, keyboard structure, whether foldable or non-foldable, keyboard layout, such as QWERTY, AZERTY or others, key function, such as an alphanumeric key, a function key, a bar key, a direction key, an enter key, a shift key, and any other computer keyboard key, device type, such as a calculator, whether handheld, portable, desktop, and/or pocket, a typewriter, a desktop computer, a computer mouse, whether wired and/or wireless, a workstation, a computer kiosk, a piano, an accordion, an organ, a mobile phone, a cash register, a point-of-sale system, an automobile, an appliance or others. Key 100 can be waterproof.

[0056] Body 102 has an upright trapezoidal cross-section. However, in other example embodiments, body 102 can have a non-upright trapezoidal cross-section, such as a flipped trapezoid or a sideways-turned trapezoid, or a non-trapezoidal cross-section, such as a square cross-section or a rectangular cross-section. Sidewalls 104 are outwardly beveled with respect to surface 108. However, in other example embodiments, at least one of sidewalls 104 can be inwardly beveled with respect to surface 108 or can be perpendicular to surface 108. Although surface 108 is concave i.e. curves inward to form a dimple, surface 108 can also be convex i.e. curve outward to form a hemispherical cap, whether hollow or non-hollow, or not project all, such as be rectilinearly flat. Surface 108 can be wavy, curvy, zigzag, teethed, linear and/or others.

[0057] Surface 108, at least one of corners 106 and/or at least one of walls 104 can be coated and/or include an anti-bacterial and/or anti-mold coating. Surface 108 can also include at least one user identifiable symbol, such as an alphanumeric character, a string, a plurality of strings and/or others, irrespective of how the symbol is associated with surface 108, such as a sticker, an ink paint, or manufactured with the symbol thereon, such as via embedding.

[0058] FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key having an upper chamber and a lower chamber according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[0059] Body 102 contains an upper chamber 1 10 and a lower chamber 1 14, both of which are enclosed by sidewalls 104 and are below surface 108. A divider 1 13, such as a floor, separates chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14. Divider 1 13 is rigid, but can be flexible. Divider 1 13 can be unitary with respect to at least one of sidewalls 104 and/or at least one of corners 106. Divider 1 13 can be as long, wide and/or deep as at least one of chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14. However, in other example embodiments, divider 1 13 is different in length, width and/or depth, whether shorter or longer, than at least one of chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14. Divider 1 13 precludes fluid communication between chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14.

[0060] Chamber 1 10 is disposed over chamber 1 14. Such disposal can be offset, non-aligned and/or off-center, such as chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14 are offset with each other, non-aligned with each other and/or off-center with each other. However, in other example embodiments, such disposal can allow for chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14 to be non-offset, share a common center and/or be aligned with each other. Chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14 extend linearly within body 102. However, in other example embodiments, chamber 1 10 and/or chamber 1 14 can extend non- linearly within body 102, such as be sloped upwardly or downwardly, wavy, zigzag, curved and/or other ways. Chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14 have rectangular cross- sections. However, in other example embodiments, chamber 1 10 and/or chamber 1 14 can have non-rectangular cross-sections, such as square, circular, oval, trapezoidal, pentagonal, octagonal and/or others. Chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14 have linear sidewalls. However, in other example embodiments, chamber 1 10 and/or chamber 1 10 can have non-linear sidewalls, such as curved, wavy, zigzag and/or others. Chamber 1 10 can be identical in at least one of shape, size, length, width, depth, internal surface and volume to chamber 1 14. However, in other example embodiments, chamber 1 10 is different in at least one of shape, size, length, width, depth, internal surface and volume from chamber 1 14. Chamber 1 10 is fully enclosed, imperforate and isolated from ambient air and chamber 1 14. Chamber 1 14 is fully enclosed, imperforate and isolated from ambient air and chamber 1 10.

[0061] Chamber 1 10 contains a first gel 1 12, such as silicon. Chamber 1 14 contains a second gel 1 16, such as silicon. Gel 1 12 can be identical to gel 1 16, whether in chemical constitution, functional properties, volume and/or others. However, in other example embodiments, gel 1 12 can be different from gel 1 16, whether in chemical constitution, functional properties, volume and/or others. Chamber 1 10 can be fully filled with gel 1 12. However, in other example embodiments, chamber 1 12 can be less than full i.e. partially filled with gel 1 12, such as half or more or less than half. Chamber 1 14 can be fully filled with gel 1 16. However, in other example embodiments, chamber 1 14 can be less than full i.e. partially filled with gel 1 16, such as half or more or less than half. At least one of gel 1 12 and gel 1 16 can be a deformable cushion gel. Chamber 1 10 can contain gel 1 12 in identical amount as chamber 1 14 contains gel 1 16. However, in other example embodiments, chamber 1 10 can contain gel 1 12 in different amount than chamber 1 14 contains gel 1 16. At least one of gel 1 12 and gel 1 14 can be a mixture of gels. Rubber can be used instead of at least one of gel 1 12 and gel 1 16.

[0062] The presence of at least chamber 1 10 containing gel 1 12 and chamber 1 14 containing gel 1 16 may contribute to key 100 being easier and/or softer to press, which may reduce and/or soften impact to a user suffering from CTS. Also, such key structure may reduce the likelihood of occurrence of CTS. Moreover, such key structure may improve shock absorbency when the user presses key 100. Further, such key structure may bolster the strength of the divider between chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14 when the user presses on key 100 many times since gel 1 16 can press upward when the pressure is applied to key 100 by the user pressing key 100. Note that divider 1 13 is sufficiently strong/reinforced to preclude breaking/puncturing therethrough upon repeated pressing of key 100.

[0063] Chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14 can include sub-chambers sectioned off in any way, whether identical to each other with respect to the respective chamber or non-identical to each other with respect to the respective chamber, whether identical to each other with respect to the respective chambers or non-identical to each other with respect to the respective chambers. The sub-chambers can include a plurality of gels, identical to each other or different from each other in any way, whether in chemical constitution, functional properties, volume and/or others. The sub- chambers can be divided via at least one divider extending in at least one direction, such as vertical, diagonal and/or vertical.

[0064] FIG. 3A shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key having an upper chamber more voluminous than a lower chamber than according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[0065] Note that chamber 1 10 has a larger cross section than chamber 1 14. Nevertheless, gel 1 12 and gel 1 16 can be equal in volume or non-equal in volume, such as gel 1 12 having more volume than gel 1 16 or gel 1 12 having less volume than gel 1 16.

[0066] FIG. 3B shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key having an upper chamber less voluminous than a lower chamber than according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[0067] Note that chamber 1 10 has a smaller cross section than chamber 1 14. Nevertheless, gel 1 12 and gel 1 16 can be equal in volume or non-equal in volume, such as gel 1 12 having more volume than gel 1 16 or gel 1 12 having less volume than gel 1 16.

[0068] FIG. 4A shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key where cushion gels are identical to each other according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication. [0069] Note that gel 1 12 and gel 1 14 have an identical chemical constitution, whether in viscosity and/or chemical make-up.

[0070] FIG. 4B shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key where cushion gels are different from each other according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[0071] Note that gel 1 12 and gel 1 14 differ in chemical constitution, which can include different viscosities of an identical chemical make-up or a different chemical make-up irrespective of gel viscosity.

[0072] FIG. 5A shows a side view of an example embodiment of a computer key having inclined sidewalls and a curved top surface according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[0073] Note that walls 104 are non-parallel and outwardly beveled. Surface 108 is concave i.e. curves inward to form a dimple. However, in other example embodiments, walls 104 can be inwardly beveled or be perpendicular, via being parallel to each other, to surface 108, which can be linear or convex.

[0074] FIG. 5B shows a side view of an example embodiment of a computer key having inclined sidewalls and a linear top surface according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[0075] Note that surface 108 is rectilinear.

[0076] FIG. 5C a side view of an example embodiment of a computer key having non-inclined sidewalls and a linear top surface according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[0077] Note that walls 104 are rectilinear and parallel to each other.

[0078] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a laptop computer having a key with at least two chambers according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[0079] A laptop computer 200 includes a keyboard having a plurality of keys. At least one of the keys is key 100. Any and/or all of the keys can be structured identically to or similar to key 100. For example, some keys can have multiple gel filled chambers and other keys can have a pair of gel filled chambers and yet other keys can have differently sized gel filled chambers and still other keys can have a plurality of chambers containing different gels, whether different in volume or chemical make-up.

[0080] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a wired computer keyboard having a key with at least two chambers according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[0081] A wired keyboard 300 has a plurality of keys. At least one of the keys is key 100. Any and/or all of the keys can be structured identically to or similar to key 100. For example, some keys can have multiple gel filled chambers and other keys can have a pair of gel filled chambers and yet other keys can have differently sized gel filled chambers and still other keys can have a plurality of chambers containing different gels, whether different in volume or chemical make-up.

[0082] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a wireless computer keyboard having a key with at least two chambers according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[0083] A wireless keyboard 400 has a plurality of keys. At least one of the keys is key 100. Any and/or all of the keys can be structured identically to or similar to key 100. For example, some keys can have multiple gel filled chambers and other keys can have a pair of gel filled chambers and yet other keys can have differently sized gel filled chambers and still other keys can have a plurality of chambers containing different gels, whether different in volume or chemical make-up.

[0084] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a musical keyboard having a key with at least two chambers according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[0085] A musical instrument keyboard 500 has a plurality of keys, which includes at least one of a natural key and an accidental key. At least one of the keys is key 100. Any and/or all of the keys can be structured identically to or similar to key 100. For example, some keys can have multiple gel filled chambers and other keys can have a pair of gel filled chambers and yet other keys can have differently sized gel filled chambers and still other keys can have a plurality of chambers containing different gels, whether different in volume or chemical make-up. The musical instrument can be any instrument including a keyboard, such as a piano, an electronic piano, an organ, an accordion, a keytar and/or others.

[0086] FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key defining an open space below a lower chamber according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[0087] Body 102 contains an open space 1 17 defined via an interior surface 1 19. Chamber 1 14 is interposed between chamber 1 10 and space 1 17. Space 1 17 is sized to allow for body 102 to mount onto a key stem. Space 1 17 is cuboid, but can be shaped in another way, such as trapezoidal. Space 1 17 is volumetrically smaller than chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14. However, in other embodiments, space 1 17 is volumetrically larger than at least one of chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14. Surface 1 19 can include a plurality of grooves or mounds to assist in coupling of key 100 onto the stem.

[0088] FIG. 1 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a computer keyboard key with at least three chambers according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same and/or similar reference characters identify same and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[0089] Body 102 includes a third chamber 1 18. Chamber 1 14 is interposed between chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 18. Chamber 1 18 is volumetrically identical to chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 18. However, in other embodiments, chamber 1 18 is different from at least one of chamber 1 10 and chamber 1 14 in at least one of size, content, volume, shape, and texture. Chamber 1 18 contains a third gel, which can be identical to and/or different from at least one of gel 1 12 and gel 1 16 in at least one of chemical composition, volume, weight, and texture. The third gel can include silicone. The third gel can be a deformable cushion gel. Note that other embodiments include more chambers, such as four, five or even ten gel filled chambers.

[0090] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a key mechanism according to another aspect of the present disclosure. A key mechanism 100 includes a first T-shaped structure 1020 and a second T-shaped structure 1040. At least one of the first structure 1020 and the second structure 1040 includes at least one of plastic, metal, wood, glass, and rubber.

[0091] The structure 1020 is defined via a first leg 1060 and a first platform 1080 extending from the leg 1060. The leg 1060 and the platform 1080 are unitary with each other. In another embodiment, the leg 1060 and the platform 1080 are assembled with each other, such as via fastening, magnetizing, adhering, mating, interlocking, and others. In other embodiments, the leg 1060 extends through and past the platform 1080.

[0092] The platform 1080 has a pair of intermediate opposing side portions 1 100 flush with the leg 1060. In another embodiment, one of the portions 1 100 is not flush with the leg 1060 and that portion 1 100 extends away from at least one of the leg 1060 and the platform 1080 such that when viewed from above the platform 1080, then the platform 1080 and that portion 1 100 are T-shaped. When the platform 1080 includes two opposing portions 1 100 extending from at least one of the leg 1060 and the platform 1080, then the platform 1080 and those portions 1 100 are plus sign shaped (+). Yet in other embodiments, the platform 1080 is shaped differently when viewed from the above the platform 1080, such as a disc, an triangle, an oval, and others.

[0093] The platform 1080 is defined via a pair of opposing arms 1240 extending from the leg 1060, where the arms 1240 include a pair of end portions 1 120. The platform 1080 also includes an upper side 1 140 spanning between the portions 1 120. The side 1 140 is level and smoothly flat, but in other embodiments, the side 1 140 is at least one of uneven, concave, convex, and rugged. The platform 1080 is solid, but in other embodiments, the platform 1080 is perforated. The platform 1080 is rigid, but in other embodiments, the platform 1080 is flexible.

[0094] The platform 1080 is cuboid shaped, but in other embodiments, the platform 1080 is shaped differently, such as a frustum, a cube, an ovoid, and others. Also, note that the platform 1080 is unitary, but in other embodiments, the platform 1080 is assembled, such as via fastening, magnetizing, adhering, mating, interlocking, and others.

[0095] The leg 1060 is unitary, but in other embodiments, the leg 1060 is assembled, such as via fastening, magnetizing, adhering, mating, interlocking, and others. The leg 1060 is solid, but in other embodiments, the leg 1060 is hollow. The leg 1060 is rigid, but in other embodiments, the leg 1060 is flexible.

[0096] The structure 1040 is defined via a second leg 1 180 and a second platform 1 160 extending from the leg 1 180. The leg 1 180 and the platform 1 160 are unitary with each other. In another embodiment, the leg 1 180 and the platform 1 160 are assembled with each other, such as via fastening, magnetizing, adhering, mating, interlocking, and others. In another embodiment, the platform 1 160 has a pair of intermediate side portions, such as the portions 1 100, flush with the leg 1 180, as described herein. The platform 1 160 also includes an upper side 1200 extending thereabout. The side 1200 is level and smoothly flat, but in other embodiments, the side 1200 is at least one of uneven, concave, convex, and rugged. The platform 1 160 is perimetrically greater than the platform 1080, such as via having a greater perimeter. In other embodiments, the platform 1080 is at least perimetrically identical to the platform 1 160. The platform 1 160 has a greater area than the platform 1080. In other embodiments, the platform 1080 has at least identical area to the platform 1 160. The platform 1 160 is solid, but in other embodiments, the platform 1 160 is perforated. The platform 1 160 is cuboid shaped, but in other embodiments, the platform 1 160 is shaped differently, such as a frustum, a cube, an ovoid, and others. Also, note that the platform 1 160 is unitary, but in other embodiments, the platform 1 160 is assembled, such as via fastening, magnetizing, adhering, mating, interlocking, and others. The platform 1 160 is rigid, but in other embodiments, the platform 1 160 is flexible.

[0097] The leg 1 180 is unitary, but in other embodiments, the leg 1 180 is assembled, such as via fastening, magnetizing, adhering, mating, interlocking, and others. The leg 1 180 is parallelogram shaped, but in other embodiments, the leg 1 180 is shaped differently, such as a tubular cylinder. The leg 1 180 is rigid, but in other embodiments, the leg 1 180 is flexible.

[0098] The leg 1 180 is hollow. The leg 1 180 contains the leg 1060 such that the leg 1060 vertically moves within the leg 1 180 for allowing the platform 1080 to vertically move toward the platform 1 160 and to vertically move away from the platform 1 160. Such movement is via the leg 1060 being slidably mounted to the leg 1 180 such the leg 1 180 such that the leg 1060 and the leg 1 180 slidably contact each other during movement. However, note that other types of moving relationships are possible, such as spherical bearings coupled to at least one of the leg 1060 and the leg 1 180. The leg 1 180 defines an open section 1220 through which the first leg 1060 is accessible, such as at least visually. For example, when the leg 1060 vertically moves within the leg 1 180, then the vertical movement of the leg 1060 is visible through section 1220. In another embodiment, the leg 1 180 lacks the section 1220 so that the leg 1060 is not laterally accessible, such as visually. In other embodiments, the leg 1 180 includes at least two of the sections 1220 on opposing sides of the leg 1 180. The section 1220 extends from the platform 1 160 until a base portion of the leg 1 180. In another embodiment, the section 1220 extends differently, such as from the platform 1 160 until midway of the leg 1 180. [0099] FIG. 13 shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a key mechanism according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[00100] The leg 1060 is hosted via the leg 1 180. The platform 1 160 is perimetrically greater than the platform 1080. The arms 1240 extend over the side 1200.

[00101] FIG. 14 shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a key cap in a depressed position according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[00102] The mechanism 1000 further includes a key cap 1260 with an interior open chamber 1320. The cap 1260 is mounted onto the structure 1020 such that the chamber 1320 contains the platform 1080. The cap 1260 is elastic, such as via rubber, but in other embodiments, the cap 1260 is rigid, such as via at least one of plastic, metal, glass, and wood. The cap 1260 is frustum-shaped, but in other embodiments, the cap 1260 is shaped differently, such as a cube, a cuboid, a sphere, an ovoid, a pyramid, a cone, and others.

[00103] The cap 1260 has an upper side 1280. The side 1280 can include an alphanumeric symbol thereon, such as printed thereon, adhered thereon, embedded thereon, and so forth. The cap 1260 includes a plurality of sidewalls 1300 extending around the chamber 1320. The chamber 1320 includes a platform containing portion 1360 and a leg containing portion 1340 in fluid communication with the portion 1360. The platform 1080 is snugly contained within the portion 1360. A portion of the leg 1060 is snugly contained within the portion 1340.

[00104] The leg 1 180 defines an inner channel 1380 containing the leg 1060. The leg 1060 vertically moves within the channel 1380 such that the cap 1260 vertically travels between a depressed position and a pressed position. The leg 1 180 also has a lower side 1480, which is in communication with an elastic member 1500, such as a coiled spring. The member 1500 is also in communication with another surface to provide for elastic feedback of the leg 1060. The leg 1060 further includes a base portion 1440 and a leg portion 1420 extending from the portion 1440. [00105] At rest, the cap 1260 is in the depressed position, as shown in FIG. 14. The cap 1260 is raised above the platform 1 160, as indicated via an open space 1400. The cap 1260 avoids contact with the platform 1 160 via the side 1200. The side 1480 is raised above a surface on which the legs 1420 stand, as indicated via an open space 1460. The side 1480 avoids contact with the surface on which the legs 1420 stand. The member 1500 is in an expanded state.

[00106] FIG. 15 shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a key cap in a pressed position according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[00107] When a keyboard user applies a vertical force onto the side 1280 for input purposes, the cap 1260 vertically travels to the pressed position, as shown in FIG. 15. The cap 1260 is not raised above the platform 1 160, as indicated via lack of the space 1400. The cap 1260 contacts the platform 1 160 via the side 1200. The side 1480 is not raised above the surface on which the legs 1420 stand, as indicated via lack of the space 1460. The side 1480 contacts the surface on which the legs 1420 stand. The member 1500 is in a retracted state. The side 1480 activates circuitry/mechanisms present on the surface on which the legs 1420 stand to indicate an input of a symbol associated with the mechanism 1000.

[00108] FIG. 16 shows another profile view of an example embodiment of a key mechanism according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[00109] The leg 1060 and the platform 1080 have a trapezoidal profile view. In other embodiments, the leg 1060 and the platform 1080 have a different profile view, such as a rectangle. The portions 1 100 are flush with the leg 1060. The arms 1240 include a plurality of elongated protrusions 1 130 outwardly extending therefrom, away from the leg 1060. The section 1220 provides access to the leg 1060. The channel 1380 contains the leg 1060. The side 1480 is positioned such that the cap 1260 would be in the depressed position. The member 1500 is in the expanded state that the cap 1260 would be in the depressed position. The side 1480 is raised above the surface on which the legs 1420 stand, as indicated via the space 1460.

[00110] FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a laptop computer containing a key mechanism according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[00111] A laptop computer 2000 includes a keyboard with a plurality of keys. At least one of the keys is based on the mechanism 1000.

[00112] FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a wired keyboard containing a key mechanism according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[00113] A wired keyboard 3000 includes a plurality of keys. At least one of the keys is based on the mechanism 1000.

[00114] FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a wireless keyboard containing a key mechanism according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[00115] A wired keyboard 4000 includes a plurality of keys. At least one of the keys is based on the mechanism 1000.

[00116] FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a piano keyboard containing a key mechanism according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication. [00117] A wired keyboard 5000 includes a plurality of keys. At least one of the keys is based on the mechanism 1000.

[00118] FIG. 21 shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a key cap containing a plurality of internal closed chambers according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[00119] Cap 1260 defines a first interior closed chamber 1520, a second interior closed chamber 1540, and an intermediate portion 1560 interposed therebetween. At least one of the chamber 1520 and the chamber 1540 is cuboid, but can be shaped in another way, such as trapezoidal, ovoid, and others. The chamber 1520 and the chamber 1540 are volumetrically identical, but in other embodiments, the chamber 1520 and the chamber 1540 are volumetrically different. The chamber 1320 is disposed underneath the chamber 1520 and the chamber 1540. The chamber 1520 contains a gel 1530, such as a cushioning gel. The chamber 1540 is empty, but can contain the gel 1530 as well or a different gel, whether in an identical or different volume. The gel 1530 includes silicone. The chamber 1520 are aligned, but can be misaligned as well.

[00120] FIG. 22A shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a platform defining a plurality of depressions according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[00121] The platform 1080 includes the portion 1 120, which defines a plurality of depressions 1 120.1 therein. The depressions 1 120.1 are identical to each other in shape and size. In other embodiments, the depressions 1 120.1 are different from each other in at least one of shape and size. The platform of any of the key mechanisms of embodiments described hereinbefore, may be the platform 1080 having portion 120 and the depressions 1 120.1 .

[00122] FIG. 22B shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a platform including a plurality of projections according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[00123] The platform 1080 includes the portion 1 120, which includes the projections 1 130, which are elongated and hemispherical. The projections 1 130 are identical to each other in shape and size. In other embodiments, the projections 1 130 are different from each other in at least one of shape, such as cone-shaped, and size. The projections 1 130 are unitary with the portion 1 120. In other embodiments, the projections 1 130 are assembled with the portion 1 120, such as via fastening, magnetizing, adhering, mating, interlocking, and others. The projections 1 130 are solid, but can be hollow. The platform of any of the key mechanisms of embodiments described hereinbefore, may be the platform 1080 having portion 120 and the projections 1 130.

[00124] FIG. 23A shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a platform defining a plurality of depressions according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[00125] The portion 1360 includes an inner surface 1360.1 , which defines a plurality of depressions 1360.2 therein. The depressions 1360.2 are identical to each other in shape and size. In other embodiments, the depressions 1360.2 are different from each other in at least one of shape and size.

[00126] FIG. 23B shows a profile view of an example embodiment of a platform including a plurality of projections according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.

[00127] The surface 1360.1 includes a plurality of projections 1360.3, which are elongated and hemispherical. The projections 1360.3 are identical to each other in shape and size. In other embodiments, the projections 1360.3 are different from each other in at least one of shape, such as cone-shaped, and size. The projections 1360.3 are unitary with the surface 1360.1 . In other embodiments, the projections 1360.3 are assembled with the surface 1360.1 , such as via fastening, magnetizing, adhering, mating, interlocking, and others. The projections 1360.3 are solid, but can be hollow.

[00128] In one example mode of operation, the platform 1080 includes the protrusions 1 130 and the surface 1360.1 includes the depressions 1360.2. The protrusions 1 130 are complementary positioned within the depressions 136.2 in the chamber 132 such that the cap 1260 is more securely mounted onto the first structure 1020.

[00129] In another example mode of operation, the platform 1080 includes the depressions 1 120.1 and the surface 1360.1 includes the protrusions 1360.3. The protrusions 1360.3 are complementary positioned within the depressions 1 120.1 in the chamber 1320 such that the cap 1260 is more securely mounted onto the first structure 1020.

[00130] The platform of any of the key mechanisms of embodiments described hereinbefore, may be the platform according to the embodiments described with reference to FIGS. 22A & 22B and/or FIGS 23A & 23B.

[00131] The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be fully exhaustive and/or limited to the disclosure in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations in techniques and structures will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure as set forth in the claims that follow. Accordingly, such modifications and variations are contemplated as being a part of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, which includes known equivalents and unforeseeable equivalents at the time of filing of this application.