Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
;~lC4~ ,9
WO91/0771; ; PCT/US90/06631
--1
DATA ENTRY BOOK WITH SHEET IDENTIFICATION
SPECIFICATION
Technical Field
This invention is related generally to data entry devices
such as keyboards and the like, and particularly to those
operative with multiple overlays for manual relabeling and
automatic reassignment of the data entry device keys.
Background Art
..
Data entry devices as a general category vary su~stantially
in structure. However, the most known human operated data entry
devices provide a plurality of depressible keys coupled to a
computer system or the like. Such typical data entry devices
include computer keyboards and telephone dialer keypads. Early
computer keyboards included an array of alpha-numeric keys and
several function keys. Each key carried a designated input data
and a fixed key-top label. As the development of computer
systems and,data entry systems continued however, the
sophistication and complexity of input information
correspondingly increased. It soon became apparent to
practitioners in the art that the solution to increased
complexity of data input could not be met by simply increasing
the number of keys. In response to this need, practitioners
developed data entry devices in which the same keys were capable
of being assigned multiple code reflecting the label alteration.
These devices are often referred to in the art as key-
reasslgnment and relabeling keyboards. Such keyboards are used
with a plurality of interchangeable overlays which cover the
depressible keys and bear visible indications of the input codes
assigned to the underlying keys. For example, an overlay for use
in a restaurant may provide visual indication of the Sundav menu
available. Depressing the key corresponding to an item indicated
in the overlay provides a signal which the system responds lo
ring up the price and identification of the item. Thus, a great
, : , .,. , . ..: . .: - . : :
:~ . : ~ :.
W O 91/07715 2~3~9 -2- PC~r/US90/06631
deal of information may be provided to the system by depressing
of a single key. When an overlay is changed, the operator
informs the system by loading a new program or by entering an
overlay associated code.
While such multiple overiay systems provide some improvement
in the flexibility and complexity of data entry devices, they are
also subject to limitations in terms of the amount of input
information which can be processed efficiently. To meet the
further increased needs, practitioners in the art have developed
multiple paged data entry devices in which a number of sheet
overlays may be interchangeably used for manual relabeling and
automatic key-reassignment. One such device is set forth in U.S
Patent 4,661,976 entitled AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE DIALER UTILIZING AN
ELECTRONIC TELEPHONE BOOK used April 2~, 1987 to Basch. It
comprises an automatic telephone dialer in which a plurality of
sheets are supported upon a common base. Each sheet incluaes a
plurality of telephone lictings. An optical sensing array
detects the open sheets of the sheet array. The information
indicating the open sheets is provided to the system for key-
reassignment.
A somewhat similar device is set forth in the February 1985
issue of the publication entitled HIG~ TECHNOLOGY in an article
at page 69 thereof written by Cary Lu.
While the foregoing described prior art devices provide ~ev-
reassignment and relabeling for data entry devices, they are
subject to generally several disadvantages. It has been found
for example that such devices tend to be larger than necessarv to
accommodate one optical detector for each sheet. In addition,
the optical detectors and their high power consumption render the
production of slim design or pocket model data entry devices
impractical. Furthermore, substantial limitations arise as to
the number of pages which can be accommodated and sensitivity of
the optical devices to page damaged and ambient light.
D1sclosure of the Invention
Accordingly, it is a general object of the present inventior
~o provide an improved data entry devices. It is a further
object of the present invention to prov1de an improved data ent--
~
à~ 9
WO91/0771~ 3 . PCT/US90/06631
device which may be readily fabricated as a data entry book andwhich may be easily and inexpensively constructed.
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided
an automatic key-reassignment and manual relabeling data entry
device in which a plurality of sheets are assembled in a data
entry device wherein the sheets support electrical elements.
Means are provided which support the sheets within the device
such that the electrical elements of the sheets overlie each
other and form a multiple element capacitor. Connection means
are provided between the electrical elements and the electrical
interface where the capacitance between the sheets may be
measured to determine the open sheets or the open sheet arrays of
the device.
.
Brlef Description of Drawings
The features of the present invention, which are believed to
be novel, are set forth with particularity in the appended
claims. The invention, together with further objects and
advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the
following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, in the several figures of which like reference numerals
identify like elements and in which:
FIG. 1 sets forth a perspective view of a pair of typical
data entry book sheets constructed in accordance with the present
invention;
FIG. la sets forth a perspective view of a typical array
divider constructed in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 2 sets forth a pictorial diagram of a plurality of
data entry book sheets;
FIG. 3 sets forth a perspective view of a data entry book
constructed in accordance with the present invention;
FIGS. 4 and 4a set forth a plurality of data sheets for
the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 3;
FIG. 5 sets forth a portion of the embodiment of the
present invention data entry book shown in FIG. 3;
FIG. 5a sets forth a Rey-Reassignment Table used with the
present invention;
FIG. 6 sets forth an alternate embodiment of the present
: ~ .. ., : ,
, ~ ; . " ~ !
.
WO91/0771~ PCT/US90/06631
2 ~8 ~9 ~4~ .
invention data entry book;
FIG. 7 sets forth exemplary data sheets for the embodiment
of the present invention data entry book shown in FIG. 6; r
FIG. 8 sets forth a perspective view of the sheet tail
cover for the data entry book shown in FIG. 6;
FIG. 9 sets forth a passive insert suitable for use with
the embodiment of FIG. 6;
FIG. 10 sets forth an alternate embodiment of the present
invention data entry book~
FIG. 11 sets forth a pair of sample sheets used in the
embodiment of the present invention data entry book of FIG. 12;
FIG. 12 sets forth a plurality of data sheets assembled
for use with the embodiment shown in FIG. 15;
FIG; ï3 sets forth a partial section view of assembied data
sheets of FIG. 12 taken along section lines 13-13 in FIG. 12;
FIG. 14 sets forth a partial section view of the data entry
book of FIG. 15 taken along section lines 14-14 in FIG. 15;
FIG. 15 sets forth a perspective view of an alternate
embodiment of the present invention data entry book;
FIG. 16 sets forth a perspective view of an insert
sheet compatible with the present invention data entry book;
FIG. 17 sets forth a section view of a pair of sheets for
use in a data entry book;
FIG. 18 sets forth a section view of a portion of the
present invention taken along section lines 18-18 in FIG. 15, and
a partial expanded view of FIG. 23a;
FIG. 19 sets forth a perspective view of a plurality of
data sheets and array dividers arranged in accordance with
the invention;
FIG. 20 sets forth a simplified front view of the plurality
of sheets of FIG. 19 with book covers and spine added;
FIG. 21a, 21b, and 21c set forth three operative positions
of data book of FIG. 20 employing array dividers;
FIG. 21d sets forth an array identification arrangement
employing floating dividers;
FIG. 21e sets forth an electrical equivalent capacitance
network of the arrangement in FIG. 21d;
FIG. 22 and 22a set forth exchange booklets;
FIG. 22b and 22c set forth booklet flap positioning for
. . . :, . ... . .
:::, ;,: -. . .
:.,.. ~ . .
.: " . , :
.
WO91/0771~ 2~ 9 ` . PCI/US90/06631
automatic booklet identification;
FIG. 22d and 22e set forth electrical equivalent capacitance
networks of the arranqements in FIG. 22b and 22c;
FIG. 23 sets forth a top view of a data entry book with a
sheet array constructed in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 23a sets forth a sectional view of the data entry book
taken along section lines 23a-23a in FIG. 23; and
FIG. 23b sets forth a portion of the embodiment of the
present invention data entry book shown in FIG. 23.
Description of the Preferred Embodiments
FIG. 1 sets forth the perspective view of a pair of
exemplary sheets generally referenced by numerals 10 and 15
constructed in accordance with the present invention data entr;
book. Sheet 10 includes a base layer 11 and a conductive layer
12 covered with an insula~ive layer 13. Base layer 11 is formed
of an insulative material such as paper or plastic or other
suitable materials and insulative layer 13 may be formed of any
convenient sealing material such as plastic or the like. While
conductive layer 12 may be formed of any number of conductive
coatings it has been found practical to use a conventional binder
blended with metallic powder or carbon b~lack or graphite. In
addition, other conductive and semi-conductive coatings or layers
may be used. Conductive layer 12 and insulative layer 13 may be
fabricated using any of the presently available techniques.
Sheet 10 further defines an outwardly extending tail 14. In
accordance with an important aspect of the present invention set
forth below in greater detail, a portion of the conductive layer
12 in the tail area is electrically exposed and defines the sheet
terminal 27 available for electrical connection to an external
electrical element. In addition, while the embodiments set fortr;
herein use single conductive or semi-conductive areas on each
sheet, it should be understood that the sheets shown may each
support multiple conductive and/or semi-conductive areas each
having a separate coupling tail without departing from the
invention.
Sheet 15 is of similar construction to sheet 10 and includes
a base layer 16, a conductive layer 17, an insulative layer 18,
WO91/0771; 2~ ~8 ~ ~9 -6- PCT/US90~06631 r
an outwardly extending tail 19 and a sheet terminal 28. For
reasons set forth below in greater detail, it should be noted
' that tails 14 and 19 of sheets 10 and 15 are spaced apart by a
sufficient distance to avoid contact between any exposed portions
of conductive layers 12 and 17 and to minimize the parasitic
capacitance therebetween. Tail 19 is made longer than tail 14
for reasons shown in FIG. 3.
Sheets 10 and 15 are superimposed and thus comprise a
parallel plate capacitor whose capacitance is defined by the
overlapping area of conductive layers 12 and 17, the distance
between the same layers which is the thickness of base 16 (sheet
15~ plus the thickness of insulating layer 13 (sheet 10), and
finally defined by the dielectric constant of the base material
and the insulating materi'al. I't-'will be apparent to those
skilled in the art that deleting the insulative layer will
increase the capacitance.
While the sample structures of sheets 10 and 15 set forth in
FIG. 1 show conductive layers and insulative layers which are
virtually coextensive with base layers 11 and 16, it will be
understood by practitioners in the art after reading the
descriptions which follow that the conductive and insulative
layers of sheets 10 and 15 need not be coextensive with base
layers 11 and 16 respectively. It should be noted that tails 14
and 15 can be deleted and replaced by leads or wires electrically
bonded to conductive layers 12 and 17. Conductive layers 12 and
17 represent electrical elements. They can take different forms
and functions, as explained below. Within the scope of this
invention, sheets 10 and 15 are also used as an element of a book
and as such they have the quality of being writable, printable,
readable on the both sides. Writing paper such as typical "Bond"
paper as well as some plastic films satisfy the above
requirements. For specific applications, sheets 10 and 15 may
take different forms. For example, they may form plastic pockets
for storage of index cards and the like.
FIG. 2 sets forth a simplified view of an array of sheets
generally referenced by numeral 20 together with appropriate
interconnections. It should be understood that FIG. ~ is a
simplified drawing used to explain the basic operative principle
of the present invention data entry book. Therefore, reference
~'
'
2~ 9
WO91/07715 : PCT/US90/06631
is invited to the figures and descriptions which follow for more
detall understanding of the construction of the present invention
data book. Sheet array 20 includes a plurality of generally
planar sheets 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 and 26. Sheets 21-26 should be
understood to be constructed in general accordance with sheets 10
and 15 of FIG. 1 in that they comprise individual base layers
which support conductive material and insulative material
arranged in accordance with FIG. 1. (The notation "21-26" is an
abbreviation for 45, 46 and 47. It is used for other elements
also throughout the specification.) Sheet 21 further includes a
conductive tail or lead 31 which should be understood to form a
conductive electrical connection to the conductive laver of shee~
21. Similarly, sheets 22-26 include connecting leads 32-36
respect1vely which form corresponding electrical connections~ to
the individual conductive layers of sheets 22-26 respectively.
In the position shown in FIG. 2, sheets 21 and 22 have been
"turned" or paged over from the remainder of sheets 23-26. Thus,
FIG. 2 depicts the configuration of sheets 21-26 which arises
when the present invention data entry book is open to show sheets
22 and 23, for example, the sheets are physically and visibly
accessible to the operator. In this position, conductive layers
of sheets 21 and 22 produce a capacitance C12 therebetween which
may be detected or measured between connecting leads 31~ and 32.
Similarly, the conductive layers of sheets 23-26 produce
a series of intersheet capacitances which may be measured or
detected between leads 33-36 respectively. In contrast
however, the separation between sheets 22 and 23 provides
virtually no capacitance therebetween and thus the capacitance
C23 measured or detected between leads 32 and 33 is virtually
zero. Thus in the arrangement shown in FIG. 2 and in accordance
with an important aspect of the present invention, the
measurement of intersheet capacitance between connecting leads
31-36 permits the determination of the relative position or
sheets 21-26 due to the occurrence of the near zero
capacitance between sheets 22 and 23. Simply stated, the zero
intersheet capacitance locates the open sheets of sheet array 20.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that despite
carerul structures and methods of fabrication set forth beiow to
minimize the stray capacitances produced between connect1ng ieaas
., , , ~ :
WO91/0771~ 2~ 9 -8- PCT/~S90/06631
31-36 and the open sheets 22 and 23, some unwanted
capacitance is inevitable. Accordingly, and in accordance with
the preferred fabrication of the present invention, the relative
areas of conductive materials and other capacitance determining
parameters of sheets 21-26 are selected to provide
capacitances between overlying pages which are substantially
greater than the unwanted capacitances within the data entry
book. It should be noted that the arrangement of FIGS. 1 and 2
can be incorporated in different embodiments. In the examples to
follow, similar sheet arrays are included in a loose-leaf binder,
a notebook and the like.
FIG. 3 sets forth a typical data entry book generally
referenced by numeral 40 and constructed in accordance with the
- present invention. Data entry book'~'40'includes a pair of book
covers 41 and 42. Covers 41 and 42 are movably joint by a trio
of binder rings 43, 44 and 45. Cover 42 supports a plurality of
connecting pads 51-56. To minimize parasitic capacitances, pads
51, 53 and 55 are arranged along the lower edge of cover 42 while
pads 52, 54 and 56 are arranged in a row near the upper edge of
cover 42. Cover 42 supports an electrical interface 68 which
includes book connector 60 with connector pins or fingers 61-66
arranged along the upper edge. An electro-optical display (not
shown) and electrical components 68 are also typically included
in the electrical interface. A plurality of conductors 71-7fi
provide electrical connections between fingers 61-66 and
connecting pads 51-56 respectively. A plurality of sheets 81-8
constructed in accordance with sheets 10 and 15 shown in FIG. 1
are movably supported upon binder rings 43-45 by a plurality of
conventional binder apertures. Sheets 81-86 define extending
tails 91-96 respectively in further accordance with the structure
shown in FIG. 1. Accordingly, sheet 86 defines an outwardlv
extending tail 96 having a length sufficient to reach connecting
pad 56. Correspondingly, sheet 84 defines an outwardly extending
tail 94 having a length sufficient to reach connecting pad 54 and
sheet 82 defines an outwardly extending tail 94 having a length
sufficient to reach connecting pad 52. It should be noted that
tails 92, 94 and 96 each defines a sheet terminal similar to
sheet terminals 27 and 28 of sheets 10 and 15 in FIG. 1. Thus,
the overlap of tail 96 upon connec~ing pad 56 provides an
: ; " :
' ' ' :'
WO91/0771~ 2~ ~9 - PCT/US90/06631
_g_
electrical connection between the conductive layer of sheet 86
and pad 56. Similarly, the sheet terminal on tail 94 provides an
electrical connection between pad 54 and the conductive layer of
sheet 84. Finally, the sheet terminal on tail 92 provides an
electrical connection between the conductive layer of sheet 82
and connecting pad 52. In operation, tails 92, 94, and 96 are
folded downwardly and pressed against cover 42, thus, electrical
connections are established between the conductive layers of
sheets 82, 84 and 86 and the connecting pads 52, 54 and 56.
ln similar fashion, sheets 81, 83 and 85 define outwardly
extending tails 91, 93 and 95 respectively, which, in accordance
with the foregoing description, provide electrical connection
between pads 51, 53, and 55 and the conductive layers of sheets
81, 83 and 85 respectively. The capacitances between sheets 81-
86 may be readily measured at connector fingers 61-66 of book
connector 60. In data entry devices utilizing a greater number
of sheets and corresponding electrical connection lines,
electrical interface 68 may include a parallel to serial
converter, or a multiplexor, or an encoder (generally indicated
by 68') to reduce the number of external connections required.
In accordance with an important aspect of the present invention,
the data entry book shown in FIG. 3 may be paged such that sheets
81-86 overlie each other and are stacked upon cover 41.
Alternatively, sheet 86 may be "paged over" to overlie cover 42
in which case sheet 86 is separated from sheets 85-81. In such
case, e~amination of the capacitances between sheets 81-86 at
connector fingers 61-66 provide a zero capacitance between sheets
85 and 86 and thus indicates that the data entry book is open to
sheets 85 and 86. By similar examination, the alternative
positions of sheets 81-86 may be determined by the presence of
zero capacitance between any two consecutive sheets of the data
entry book. Absence of zero capacitance indicates that all
sheets (the book) are (is) closed. It should be noted that cover
41 can bear an electrical element, or capacitor plate connected
to a connector finger, permitting identification of front cover
relative position.
FIG. 5 sets forth covers 41 and 42 with pages 81-86 and
binder rings 43-45 removed, however, depressible key arrays 100
and 101 are added. Cover 42 supports a plurality of depressible
,,
:
~: ....... - ':
WO91/07715 PCT/US90/06631
Z~1~8~9 - 10 -
keys 101 arranged in an equally spaced row near the inner edge of
cover 42. The first two keys are marked 101-1 and 101-2.
Correspondingly, cover 41 supports a second plurality of keys 100
arranged along the inner edge of cover 41. Multiple conductor
sels 77 and 78 provide electrical connection from keys 100 and
101 to book connector 60. Via book connector 60, electrical
contact with an external system (not shown) is provided.
A major objective of the present invention is relabeling and
reassignment of data entry keys. In order to relabel the key
101-1 in FIG. 5, for example, this invention provides solutions
exemplified in FIG. 4 with a five-sheet array 81-85 as
a part of a book 40. The sheets carry alpha-numeric, graphical,
or other type of information 109 as a label/symbol which is
readabl~ or in other way recognizable by the operator. In
operation, the five-sheet array 81-85 is assembled with the data
book parts shown in FIG. S. The label for key 101-1 changes when
a sheet is turned to expose the next or the previous sheet. This
is illustrated in FIG. 4 where sheet 81 is on top of sheets 82-85
and displays the letter "A" as a label/symbol 109 for key 101-1.
~he label changes to "B" on sheet 82 and to "C" on sheet 83 as
illustrated in FIG. 4a. It should be noted that labels A, B and
C are associated with key 101-1. The second label "GO" on sheet
81 is associated with the second key 101-2. ~his label changes
to "STOP" on sheet 83. The labels used in this example and their
locations are listed in FIG. SA KEY-REASSIGNMENT TABLE, column
LABEL. A mark 108 next to each label/symbol 109 coincides with
an underlying key in operational position and indicates the area
to be depressed by the operator to actuate that underlying key.
ln this way, the present invention makes it possible to
incorporate a plurality of interchangeable labels, for example,
20, 50 or more labels on top of`an entry key and in addition
provides each label with ampie space for printed or handwritten
information to assist the operator and speed up the data entry.
Another major objective of the invention is to provide the system
information as to the sheet bearing the selected label. The
arrangement described in connection with FIG. 3 provides zero-
capacitance information permitt1na identification of the open
sheet(s) bearing the selected label(s). It should be noted that
in addition to zero-capacitance information, the arrangement of
- . .
~,,. ~, . . . .
:. '. ~ ' . .. ~ ,. ,
:: ,~ .. ,. .:
:. ''- . ,: :
~, :
.
WO91/0771~ 2~ ng PCT/US90/06631
-11-
FIG. 3 provides alternative information for open pageidentification. This occurs when the operator touches the open
sheet to depress the underlying key. His body capacitance and
resistance (to ground) alter the sheet's own capacitance and
resistance. This new electrical condition is measurable at the
respective connector finger. With known in the art methods, the
touched sheet is identified. A further alternative arrangement
for open sheet identification is disclosed in connection with
FIG. 17.
When a label is selected and the underlying key is actuated,
information is provided for the key number and the opened sheet
numbers. In FIG. 5A, Key-Reassignment Table, line one reflects
the events taking place when the operator strikes label "A" on
sheet 81. The book is sending data indicating that "NONE" sheets
were open and the depressed key was number 101-1. Accordingly,
the system assigns key number 101-1, label "A". Further, the
table indicates that any one of the aligned labels - "A, B, C, D,
E" can be assigned to key 101-1.
Summarizing, the sheets as visual information bearer on top
of the keys provide the relabeling capability and the same sheets
as electrical elements in cooperation with the keys provide the
key-reassignment capability. It would be apparent to those
skilled in the art that keys 100 and 101 need not be supported
beneath sheets 80-85, but may be located at any convenient place.
FIG. 6 sets forth an alternate embodiment generally
referenced by numeral 110 and having a pair of covers 111 and 112
joint by a spine 117. In accordance with conventional book
fabrication covers 111 and 112 are pivotally attached to spine
117 and may be opened and closed accordingly. A pair of binder
assemblies 113 and 114 constructed in accordance with
conventional fabrication techniques are secured to and supported
upon spine 117. Binder 113 includes a split binder ring 115
while binder 114 includes a split binder ring 116. ~he rings are
of plastic or metal coated with an insulative layer. A plurality
of data entry book sheets 120-123 are received upon
binder rings 115 and 116 and stacked upon cover 111. Sheet 123
defines a pair of apertures 125 and 126 receiving binder rings
115 and 116 respectively to secure sheet 123 within data entry
book 110. A slot 127 extends parallel to the interior edge of
.: : : ., - : ~
.. . .
- :- , : ::: ~- :
: ~ :: :: :: : -
WO91/0771~ 2~8 ~;~9 PCT/US90/06631
-12- --
sheet 123. While not visible in FIG. 6 sheets 120, 121 and 122
are similar to sheet 123 and supported beneath sheet 123 in the
position shown in FIG. 6. Sheet 123 defines an extending tail
133 which extends laterally from the interior portion of sheet
123 and is conductibly coupled to a connecting pad (not shown) in
cover 112 in a similar fashion to the embodiment in FIG. 3.
Correspondingly, data entry book sheets 120-122 define
extending tail portions 130-132 respectively. Tails 130-132 form
similar conductive attachments to the interior of cover 112 to
provide electrical connections. In accordance with the
invention, sheets 120-123 include similar conductive and
insulative layers to that set forth above and are operative in
the same manner as the alternate embodiments described above. A
generally cylindrical tail cover 140 is secured to spine 117 to ~
provide a protective overlay for tails 130-133.
In operation, data entry book 110 functions in much the same
manner as the above described embodiments. The primary
difference in the embodiment of FIG. 6 from those described
above is the location of tails 130-133 near the center of
sheets 120-123 and a protective tail cover 140.
FIG. 7 sets forth sheets 120 and 123 of the embodiment of
FIG. 6 in greater detail.
FIG. 8 sets forth tail cover 140 of insulating mater1al
which as can be seen comprises a generally cylindrical member 141
having a plurality of outwardly attachments tabs 142-145
inclusive. Tabs 142-145 are attached to spine 117.
Split binder rings 115 and 116 allow for quick removal and
insertion of sheets in the data book. FIG. 9 sets forth an
insert sheet 155 with two apertures 156 and 157, and a notch 158.
Sheet 155 may be removably engaged to the data book by using only
split rings 115 and 116. Notch 158 provides clearance between
edge of sheet 155 and tail cover 140 to permit insert sheet 155
to be freely moved upon split rings 115 and 116.
It should be noted that insert sheet 155 is made of
insulative material and does not carry any conductive layer. Its
presence between sheets 122 and 123 will change the intersheet
capacitance therebetween. Insert sheet 155 can provide
supporting visual information. Another type of insert sheet
which does not influence the intersheet capacitance is disclosed
- : ;
. . .: . , , : . ..
WO91/07715 -13~ J~ ~n9 PCT/US90/~6631
in FIG. 16.
FIG. 10 sets forth an alternate embodiment of the present
invention data entry book with spiral binding and sheet seqments
generally referenced by numeral 171. A data sheet 170 defines a
plurality of apertures 173 positioned along the interior edge to
receive spiral wire 177. Data sheet 170 includes an extending
tail 174. A segment data sheet 180 defines apertures 183 which
receive spiral wire 177. A second segment data sheet 190
completes the remaining portion to provide the equivalent of full
sheet such as sheet 170. Segment data sheet 190 defines
apertures 193 along the interior edge to receive spiral wire 177.
In accordance with an important advantage of the embodiment shown
in FIG . 10, data sheets 170, 180 and 190 are individually
-~-~ ~movable with respect to book covers (not shown) and the remainder
of data sheets to provide partial paging of the data sheets. For
example, segment data sheet 190 may be individually moved apart
from segment data sheet 180 to overlie a portion of sheet 170 as
indicated by dash line 186. Similarly, sheet 180 may be moved
with respect to sheet 190 to overlie data sheet 170 as is also
indicated by dash line 186. Data sheet 180 includes a tail 184.
Similarly, sheet 190 defines an extending tail 194. It should be
understood that while not shown in FIG. 10, tails 174, 184 and
194 are electrically connected to a book connector and sheets
170, 180 and 190 are formed in the same manner as sheets 10 and
15 in FIG . 1, and accordingly each define a base layer, a
conductive layer, and an insulative layer. Specifically, it
should be understood that data entry book 171 supports a
plurality of depressible keys in the book covers and functions
substantially in accordance with the above-described operation of
data entry book 40 in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5.
FIGS. 11, 12 and 13 set forth a label tablet 210 which is
a collection of data sheets 230-235 glued together at one
edge. The label tablet 210 is removably attachable to base 201
of FIG. 15. As set forth in FIG. 12, the label tablet 210
includes a plurality of data sheets 230-235 arranged in a
stack. Data sheet 230 includes an upwardly extending tail 240
and defines a notch 246 along its upper edge (better seen in
FIG. 11). Sheet 231 is positioned beneath sheet 230 and
defines an upwartly extending tail 241. Sheet 231 defines a
:: : :. , , ~:
:
WO91/07715 X~ ~9 -14- PCT/US90tO6631
notch 247 generally coincident with notch 246. It should be
noted that tail 241 of sheet 231 is spaced inwardly from tail 240
of sheet 230 to reduce intertail parasitic capacitance. Sheet
232 which underlies sheet 231 defines an upwardly tail 242 and a
notch similar to notch 246 of sheet 230. Tail 242 underlies tail
240 and is of reduced length with respect to tail 240. Sheet 233
underlies sheet 232 and defines a notch similar to notch 247 of
sheet 241 and an upwardly extending tail 243 which underlies and
is shorter than tail 241 of sheet 231. Similarly, sheet 234
underlies sheet 233 and defines a notch similar to notch 246 and
an upwardly extending tail 244 which underlies tails 242 and 240
and is shorter than tail 242. Finally, sheet 235 underlies sheet
234 and defines a notch similar to notch 247 and an upwardly
e~tending tail 245 which underlies tails 241 and 243 and is
shorter than tail 243. Summarizing, the tails of sheets 230-235
progress with alternating sheets having offset tails and
successively shorter lengths of tails to provide the structure
shown in FIG. 11. It should be noted that the notches 246, 247
etc. act as strain relief in tail - sheet junction. The sheets
230-235 are glued together by means of a strip 205 as shown in
the cross sectional view in FIG. 13. The glue holds the upper
edges of all sheets and a small portion 239 of the front surface
of the sheets. Strip 205 comprising a generally planar member,
the structure of which is set forth in greater detail in FIGS. 12
and 13, defines a pair of apertures 225 and 226 which receive
pins 236 and 237 respectively extending upwardly from base 201
(seen in FIGS. 14 and 15). Strip 205 secures the upper edges of
sheets 230-235 to form a tablet like binding which maintains
sheets 230-235 in the position shown in FIG. 12. It should be
noted thàt sheet 230 bears a plurality of ruled spaces 252
arranged across the sheet. In addition, sheet 230 supports a
plurality of visual information legends such as the numbers 251
shown together with visually marked key-press indicia 250. Thus
sheet 230 is provided with a plurality of spaces 252 upon which
the visually imparted information relating to the particular key-
press indicia is available to the operator. It should be
understood that sheets 231-235 bear similar markings to those
shown for sheet 230, and that sheets 230-235 are constructed in
accordance with sheets 10 and 15 shown in FIG. 1.
- - : :. . . : ~ - .
: :: '. ` ` , . `:
~. " '`, . -
WO91/0771~ 15 2 ~ 8 ~ PCT/US90/06631
FIG. 15 sets forth a data entry table support referenced
by numeral 200. A generally planar base 201 defines a planar
flexible cover 203 which supports a plurality of connecting pads
215-220. Connecting pads 215, 216 and 217 are arranged
in an evenly spaced vertical row, while connecting pads 218, 219
and 220 are arranged in a similar row parallel to pads 215-217.
It should be understood that in accordance with the above-
described structure, connecting pads 215-220 are coupled to
conductors (not shown) which provide electrical connection to
tablet support connector 202 for coupling to outside devices. It
should be noted that in accordance with the above-described
fabrication techniques, tails 240, 242 and 244 are electrically
connected to connecting pads 215, 216 and 217 respectively.
Simi~l-arly,--tails 241, 243 and 245 are electrically connected to
connecting pads 218, 219 and 220 respectively. Accordingly, the
conductive layers of sheets 230-235 are individually connected to
pads 215-220. A generally planar cover plate 204 is attached to
base 201 at a hinge 214. Hinge 214 permits cover plate 204 to be
pivotally rotated from the open position shown in FIG. 15 to a
ciose position in which cover plate 204 overlies strip 205 and
tails 240-245. Cover plate 204 further defines a pair of
apertures 212 and 213 spaced upon cover 204 to receive the
extensions of pins 236 and 237 extending beyond strip 205. Thus
the cooperation of apertures 212 and 213 with pins 236 and 237 is
operative to secure cover 204 in the close position. In
addition, a resilient pad is secured to the underside of cover
204 and positioned thereon such that resilient pad 211 overlies
the connections of tails 240-245 upon connecting pads 215-220.
Thus in the closed position, the resilient force provided by
resilient pad 211 maintains a short contact between tails 240-245
and their respective connecting pads 215-220. In accordance with
an important aspect of the embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the
rotation of cover 204 to the open position permits the easy
removal and replacement of label tablet 210. A plurality of
depressible keys 265 are arranged in a vertical row across
flexible cover 203 of base 201. The structure of keys 265 is set
forth below in greater detail. However, suffice it to note here
that virtually any structure may be utilized without departing
from the spirit and scope of the present invention. With
::- . :. . .
/o"; 2~ 9 pCT/US90/06631
16
simultaneous reference to FIGS. 12 and 18, it should be noted
that keys 265 are spaced and arranged upon or beneath flexible
cover 203 to underlie key indicia 250 of data sheets 230-235.
Thus depressing the selected key indicia 250 on data sheets 230-
235, results in depressing the underlying one of keys 265. Base
201 further supports a plurality of numeric keys 207 together
with a plurality of function keys 208. Keys 207 and 208 provide
for additional input of information and functional configuration.
As shown, they are not relabelable nor reassignable. It will be
apparent to those skilled in the art that keys 265 need not be
supported upon or beneath label tablet 210 but may instead be
located at any convenient place. FIG. 16 sets forth a
perspective view of a sheet generally referenced by numeral 270
which includes an insulative base 271, a conductive layer 272 on
one side of the base and a conductive layer 273 on the other
side. Conductive layers 272 and 273 are electrically connected
by a plurality of connecting elements 274. Thus the conductive
layers 272 and 273 of sheet 270 are electrically continuous. In
accordance with the invention and for a specific application,
sheet 270 is made to size and shape of sheet 155 in FIG. 9 and is
inserted between sheets 122 and 123 in FIG. 6 instead of sheet
155. 8ecause conductive layers 272 and 273 are conductively
coupled by connecting element 274 and remain free of any external
electrical connection, the resulting capacitance produced by the
sheets 122 and 123 in FIG. 6 remains substantially the same as
that achieved without sheet 270 inserted therebetween. Thus in
accordance with an important aspect of the present invention, any
number of insert sheets constructed in accordance with the
structure shown in FIG. 16 may be inserted within the array of
data sheets in the present invention data entry book without
substantial change in the resulting capacitances between data
sheets. Sheet 270 is a double sided conductive layer coated
sheet and can also be applied as a data sheet such as sheet 10 of
FIG. 1 or any other disclosed herein. An example is set forth
below.
FIG. 17 sets forth sheet 270 overlyinq sheet 280. Sheet
280 exhibits structure which is similar to sheet 270 including
insulative base 281 and conductive layers 282 and 283 on each
face and an interconnection 284 therebetween. Schematically
.- ~ .
, .: , :
: ~ .
' ' . , . - ~ . ~ . .-, ~
.. ~
WO91/0771; -17- 2 ~ 5 8~9 PCTIUS90/06631
presented are tail 275, as an extension of sheet 270 and tail 285
as an extension of sheet 280. Tails 275 and 285 carry conductive
layers (not shown but similar to those of FIGS. 1 and 3) for
connection to external devices. In FIG. 17, sheets 270 and 280
are superimposed and conductive layer 273 of sheet 270 makes
direct contact with conductive layer 282 of sheet 280.
Accordingly, a significant conductance G12 can be measured
between tails 275 and 285. Accordingly, when the sheets are open
the conductance is zero. It will be apparent to those skilled in
the art that using double side conductive layer sheets without
insulating layers, such as sheets 270 and 280, in constructions
described above, will achieve the same objective of the invention
such as open sheets identification. Consequently, replacing the
terms capacitance,-zero capacitance and non-zero capacitance-as
used above by conductance, zero conductance and non-zero
conductance, will specify the conditions for use of double sided
conductive layer sheets without insulating layers.
According to the present invention, information is provided
to the system identifyin~ a selected sheet array within a data
book. This object is achieved by applying sheet array sensing
technique for automatic sheet array identification as disclosed
below in two different embodiments shown in FIGS. 21a and 21d,
respectively. Methods for record space (label) identification
and sheet identification within the automatic identified array
are covered in connection with FIG. 23.
The book sheets are divided into arrays by inserting
dedicated array dividers such as 350, 360, and 370, of FIG. 19,
representing divider means. Ezch divider means supports
electrical elements, such as 334 of FIGS. la, which represent
switch means for identification of a sheet array in operation.
The automatic sheet array identification allows the use of sheet
keys 391-394 with all sheet arrays within a data entry book, as
explained below.
FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a group of sheets 380 that
is used to explain the basic principle of sheet array sensing.
The group 380 is divided into:
array 371 comprising sheets 345, 346 and 347, of FIG. 23,
array 372 comprising sheets 355, 356 and 357, and
array 373 comprising sheets 365, 366 and 367.
- - :; -;, ~ : .
: ' : :: ' ' ;:: : ' :,
, . .. :: .
WO91/0771~ PSj~ 9 -18- PCT/US90/06631
Sheets 345, 346, and 34? bear labels '1-t~Ushown in FIG. 23 Sheets
355, 356, 357, 365, 366, and 367, are made in accordance with
sheets 345, 346, and 347, explained below, and are imprinted with
labels ~19-54u (partially seen). An array divider 350, shown in
heavy line, is inserted between sheets 347 and 355. Similarly,
array divider 360 is inserted between sheets 357 and 365.
Finally, array divider 370 underlies sheet 367 of array 373.
Each array divider carries a divider electrical element 334 to be
explaind below.
Sheets 380 are employed as elements of a book and they have
the ~uality of being writable, printable, readable on the both
sides. Writing paper such as "Bond" paper as well as some
plastic films satisfy the above requirements. They are provided
with-record spaces 332, sheet inde~es 341, 342 explained below.
In alternative embodiments for specific applications, sheets 380
may take different forms. For example they may form plastic
pockets for the storage of index cards for index files, and the
like. For specific applications sheets 380 may support a thin
electrical conductive layer in accordance with FIG. 9 i.e.
without connection.
FIG. la is a perspective view of a typical array divider
350. Array divider 350 includes a base layer 333, and a
conductive layer 334, which is covered with an insulative layer
335. Base layer 333 is formed of a planar and insulating
material such as paper, or plastic, or other suitable materials
depending on specific application and design. The electrical
conductive layer 334 is made of binder blended with metal powder,
or carbon black, or graphite. It is applied on base 333 surface
by any of the known in the art methods such as: spraying, silk-
screening, printing, brushing, etc. Another alternative methods
are metallizing the base layer 333 in vacuum, laminating the base
layer 333 with a metal foil, and other methods known in the art.
Conductive layer 334 may be formed of any number of conductive
coatings. Insulating layer 335 is formed of sealing material
such as plastic or paper, which functions as a protection against
damage, as a dielectric in a capacitor, as an electric insulator,
and as a printable, writable and readable surface.
In FIG. la the lower left portion of insulative layer 335 is
partially removed to permit electrical bonding of lead (wire) 33
:. :
: , , , . - :
WO91/07715 2 ~t ~ ~ PCT/US90/06631
on the surface of conductive layer 334. Lead 336 is a divider
connection means for connecting conductive layer 334 of divider
350 to connecting pad 379 located on rear cover 312 of FIG. 23b.
The lead 336 is inserted via slot 328 into pocket 339 (seen in
FIG. 23a). Electrical layer 334 of divider 350 is thereby
connected to electrical interface 321.
FIG. 1 sets forth an alternative embodiment of divider
connection means 336. Divider substrate 10 defines an outwardly
extending tail 14 ellectrically exposed at 27 for electrical
connection to an external connecting element such as connecting
pad 379 located on rear cover 312, shown in FIG. 23b, and
accessible via slot 328 in rear panel 316. Dividers 360 and 370
as shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 are of similar construction. Each
divider has a divider connection~-~means 336a and 336b for
electrical connection to connecting pad 377 and 378,
respectively. The divider tails on consecutive sheets are spaced
apart by sufficient distance to avoid undesirable electrical
contact threrebetween and to minimize parasitic capacitances.
Dividers 350, 360, and 370, may be used also as information and
record bearers when provided with sheet indexes and record
spaces, similar to those of sheet 345-347.
Summary. FIGS. 1 and la show electrical conductive element
334 deposited on one side of the base 333, covering the whole
base surface as shown in FIG. 1. Divider 350 and its elements
such as base 333, divider electrical element 334, and insulative
layer 335 may vary in the following ways: insulative layer 335
may be deleted;
divider electrical element 334 may be applied on both sides
of base 333 ;
divider electrical element 334 may be applied only on a
portion of base 333;
more than one electrical element 334 may be applied on
either side of base 333, each element 334 having a lead, such as
336;
divider electrical element 334 can be made of conductive,
semiconductive, resistive, or other materials which allow
building of different elements and components such as:
a capacitor plate, a capacitor, a conductive path, a resistor,
or in combination of the above like an RC network etc.;
': , :
:- , .
Z ~ 9
WO91/0771~ PCT/US90/U6631
~ -20-
divider 350 may be formed of a single conductive layer sheet
with or without insulative layers on either side;
lead 336 may be used for interdivider connections e.g.
connecting elements of different diviclers.
FIG. 20 sets forth a simplified front view of the plurality
of sheets 380, of FIG. 319, with book covers 311 and 312, and
spine 313 added, which in combination form data book 340. Sheets
380 are movably attached to spine 313 in the way explained above.
Data book 340 is in a closed position. Sheets 380 are arranged
as shown in FIG. 19. Further, they are stacked and aligned upon
rear cover 312, and front cover 311 overlies sheet 345.
In this position, divider 350 and divider 360 are separated
by sheet array 372 and form a parallel-plate capacitor 392, which
defines capacitance C56. The capacitance value of capacitance
C56 is determined: (a) by the overlapping areas of conductive
layers 334 located on dividers 350 and 360 respectively; (b) by
the distance between dividers 350 and 360 which is sheets 355,
356 and 357 combined thickness; and finally (c) by the dielectric
constant of sheets 355, 356 and 357. Similarly, dividers 360 and
370 form parallel-plate capacitor 97. Capacitor 97 defines
capacitance C67 which is calculated in the same way as
capacitance C56.
Referring simultaneously to FIGS. 19, 20, 21a, 21b and 21c
the embodiment is explained in greater detail. FIG. 21a
illustrates data book 340, In operating position, laid down flat
and is open to show sheets 346 and 347, of array 371. In this
position arrays 372 and 373, and dividers 350, 360, and 370, are
closed and are stacked upon rear cover 312. Accordingly,
dividers 350 and 360, lie in parallel, separated by sheet array
372, forming capacitor 396 with capacitance C56. Similarly,
dividers 360 and 370 lie in parallel separated by sheet array
373, thus forming capacitor 397 with capacitance C67. It should
be noted that divider 360 participates in both capacitors 396 and
397. In this position (closed dividers), capacitors 396 and 397
have a capacitance value referred hereinafter as a maximum
capacitance value, also characterized as C56 * 0 and C67 + 0.
In FIG. 21b, book 340 is laid down flat and open to show
sheets 355 and 356, of array 372. In this position the book is
separated into two stacks. In the left stack, divider 350
,.:
:, , . : .
:- : . , . ; . .:
:- ' ''', ,:: . ;
: . : . .
:, ~ .... . . :
: . . .: ,:
WO9l/0771~ -21- ~^9 PCT/US90/~6631
overlies array 371, which overlies front cover 311. In the right
stack, divider 360 overlies array 373, which overlies divider
370, which overlies rear cover 312. In this position divider 350
is 180 degrees apart from divider 360, which reduces the value of
capacitance C56 to a minimum capacitance value which is
relatively small and characterized as C56 = 0. It is mainly
defined by stray and parasitic capacitances of nearby conductors
and components. Dividers 360 and 370 have not changed position
and capacitance 367 remains at maximum value, or C67 + 0.
In FIG. 21c book 340 is open to show sheet 365 and 366, of
array 373. capacitance C67, between dividers 360 and 370, is at
minimum value, or C67 = 0, while capacitance C56, between
dividers 350 and 360, is at maximum value, or C56 + 0. In an
alternative embodiment (not shown), divider 370 is incorporated
in rear cover 312. Table 1 tabulates the capacitance values.
FIG. 21d sets forth an alternative array identification
embodiment employing dividers 350' and 360', constructed as
dividers 350 and 360, however, without lead or tail connection to
electrical interface 321, i.e. floating dividers. Data book
340' is a similar construction of data book 340 of FIG. 21b.
Corresponding reference numerals are printed (') and are
explained as follows. Front cover 311' supports two capacitor
plates 322' and 323' connected to electrical interface 321 (not
shown) via wires 319g and 319h, respectively. Rear cover 312'
supports two plates 324' and 325' connected to electrical
interface 321 (not shown) via wires 319i and 319j, respectively.
Di~iders 350' and 360' comprise a base layer 333 of insulative
material, and a conductive layer 334 which is covered with an
insulative layer 335; as shown in FIG. la, and described
accordingly. The dividers 350' and 360' are therefore
electrically floating dividers. Record and sheet keys 381 -386,
and 391-394, connection means 317, 318, and 319, and electrical
interface 321 (all not shown) are included in data book 340'.
Book 340' is opened to show any sheet of array 372'. Divider
350' overlies sheet array 371', which in turn overlies cover
plates 322' and 323', supported by front cover 311'. In the
right stack, divider 360' overlies array 373', which in turn
overlies plates 324' and 325' supported by rear cover 312'. It
should be noted that plates 322' and 323' are of equal length,
. . . .
. .
2~ '`9
WO9l/0771~ PCT/US90/06631
-22-
and their combined length approximately equals the length of
divider 350'. Plates 322' and 323' are positioned such that the
overlapping portion of divider 350' with plate 322' is
approximately equal to the overlapping portion of divider 350'
with plate 323'. Accordingly, capacitance C52 formed between
plate 322' and divider 350' is approximately equal to capacitance
C53 formed between plate 323' and divider 350'.
Divider 350' lies in parallel with plates 322' and 323',
divided by array 371'. In this position two parallel-plate
capacitors 402 and 403 are formed with capacitances C52 and C53,
respectively, both exhibiting maximum capacitance value. Divider
350' is 397 common plate for both capacitors, meaning they are
connected in series, as shown in FIG. 21e, with an equivalent
capacitance less than~the smaller of the two, C52 and C53. When
divider 350' is turned to overlie the stack upon rear cover 312',
capacitances C52 and C53 have near zero, or minimum capacitance
value. Table 1 tabulates floating divider's capacitance values.
Table 1
Array Dividers Floating Array Dividers
In FIGS. 21a, 21b, 21c In FIG. 21d
:
Open Capacitance Open Capacitance
Array ValuelCode Array Value/Code
C56 C67 C52 C53 C64 C65
371 ~ 0 * 0 371' = 0 = 0 * 0 ~ 0
372 = 0 * 0 372' * 0 * 0 * 0 *-0
373 * 0 = 0 373' * 0 * 0 = 0 = 0
Divider 360' lies in parallel with plates 324' and 325',
divided by array 373'. In this position two parallel-plate
capacitors 404 and 405 are formed with capacitances C64 and C65,
respectively, both exhibiting maximum capacitance value. Divider
360' is 397 common plate for both capacitors, i.e. they are
connected in series as shown in FIG. 21e, with an equivalent
WO 91/07715 PCI /US90/U6631
~8~n.9
capacitance less than the smaller of the two, C64 and C65.
When divider 360' is turned to overlie the stack upon front
cover 311', capacitances C64 and C65 have near zero, or minimum
capacitance value. In this embodiment, the relative position of
a divider to a predetermined cover defines the capacitances'
maximum and minimum values. These values form a code which is
made available at interface 321.
FIG. 22 sets forth a typical exchange booklet 440 which is
attachable to and detachable from data entry book 310 in FIG.
23b. This embodiment includes automatic identificaticn of a
particular booklet currently attached to book 310. It should be
understood that FIG. 22 is a simplified drawing used to explain
the basic operative principle of electrically identifiable
-~ exchange booklets. Booklet 440 includes a plurality-of-sheets ~
445, 446, and 447, constructed in general accordance with sheets
345, 346, and 347, of FIGS. 19 and 20. Accordingly, sheets 445,
446, and 447 bear 447 spaces 432 and sheet indexes 441 and 442.
Further, booklet 440 includas a sheet or a flap 448 which should
be understood is insertable through slot 326 into receiving
pocket 338, best seen in FIG. 23a. Accordingly, flap 448 is
formed of a planar, semiflexible and insulative material such as
light cardboard, or plastic, or the like. A portion of flap 448
supports flap-capacitor plate 449 located near the upper edge.
It should be noted that plate 449 is covered with an insulative
layer (not shown), and both are fabricated in general accordance
with the methods described above. Flap 449 and sheets 445-447
are glued together, or otherwise movably joint, along one edge in
aligned position forming one single booklet. When flap 448 is
inserted into receiving pocket 338, sheets 445-447 are aligned
with the book covers 311 and 312. In this position, sheets 445-
447 may be used in the way described in connection with FIGS. 23,
23b, 19, and 20.
FIG. 22a sets forth a second booklet of sheets generally
referenced by numeral 450, including a plurality of sheets 455,
456, and 457, and a flap 458 with flap-capacitor plate 459.
Booklet 450 is constructed similarly to booklet 440 in FIG. 22.
Plate 459, as shown in FIG. 22a is located near the lower edge of
flap 458. ;
FIG. 22b sets forth inside front book cover 311 (of FIG.23b)
,
. : ,~:~, . . .: , .
:, .. . ... , - : :
: , : . ' ' .: ;, , : '
WO9l/0771~ PcT/Us9o/o663
~t~ 9 -24-
with keys 384-386, sheet keys 393 and 394, and panel 314 removed.
Cover capacitor plates 322, 323, and 324, are arranged in a
column. They are constructed in general accordance with divider
350's capacitor plate of FIG. la. In addition, thèy are
connected to electrical interface 321 via wires 319a, 319b, and
319c. When flap 148 is inserted into receiving pocket 338 (seen
in FIGS. 23 and 23a), flap plate 449 (shown in broken line in ,.
FIG. 22b) overlies two adjacent cover plates 322 and 323. In
this position, plate 322 and portion of plate 449 form a
parallel-plate capacitor 411 with capacitance C24. Plate 323 and
the remainder of plate 449 form a second parallel-plate capacitor
412 with capacitance C34. FIG. 22d is the equivalent electrical
circuit for capacitors formed between flap plate 449 and cover
plates 322-324. S1nce capacitors 411 and 41~ have one common
plate 442, they are connected in series, with an equivalent
series capacitance C234 less than the smaller of the two, C24 and
C34.
When flap 448 is extracted from pocket 38 and replaced by
flap 458, flap-capacitor plate 459 overlies cover plates 323 and
324, as shown in dotted line in FIG. 22c. In this position plate
323 and portion of plate 459 form parallel-plate capacitor 413
with capacitance C35, while plate 324 and the remainder of plate
459 form parallel-plate capacitor 414 with capacitance C45.
Accordingly, capacitors 413 and 414 are connected in series, as
shown in FIG. 22e, with an equivalent series capacitance C345
less than the smaller of the two, C35 and.C45.
In another embodiment (not shown) a flap-capacitor plate is
made large enough to overlap all three cover plates 3Z2, 323, and
324, thus, defining three simultaneously existing capacitors.
In still another embodiment, the flap plate is fork-shaped made
to coincide with cover plates 322 and 324, thus, defining a new
capacitors' combination. It will be understood by those skilled
in the art that increased number of cover plates and/or increased
number of flap plates will result in larger number of capacitor
combinations. Then, each combination is used for booklet
identification by the system.
In an alternative embodiment, the capacitive coupling
between fiap and cover is replaced by direct electrical contact.
For tha~ purpose flap-capacitor plate 448 and cover-capacitor
: .::: . ~ : ~ . :
' ' 1,,, , 1,...
:, . . ~,. , - . . ,
WO91/0771~ PCT/US90/06631
25 2 ~ 8~ ~.9 `
plates 322-324 are at least partially free of insulative layer
335 (of FIG. la) to form a flap electrical-contact area, and a
cover electrical-contact area, respectively (not shown). When
flap 448 is inserted into pocket 328 in operative position, flap
electrical-contat area, and cover electrical-contact area, are ir.
direct electrical contact. This direct electrical contact
signals electrical interface 321 and the system that flap 448 is
in place and the ensuing key closures are related to records
within booklet 440. It should be understood by those skilled in
the art that wide variety of electrical contacts may be used.
The preferred embodiment of attachment means for securing of
flap 448 to book 310, is described above as slot 326 and pocket
338. In an alternative embodiment, flap 448 is compressed and
held in an~operative position by a clamp. In still another ~ ~~~ ~~~
embodiment two holes in the flap and two guide pins in the
cover, register the flap 440 in operative position. This
embobdiment is similar to ring binder arrangement, and indicates
further alternatives.
Selection of a record space (332) and a sheet (345-367)
within the automaticly identified arrays (71, 72, 73) or exchange
booklets is made possible through manual actuation of dedicated
keys as explained below.
FIG. 23 sets forth a typical data entry device 310, usually
a book, constructed in accordance with the present inventior..
Sheets 345, 346, and 347, of array 71, are stacked upon rear
cover 312. Sheet 345 is on top of the stack exposing face 345a.
In this position the sheets are movably attached to spine 313 by
a spiral wire, or by loose-leaf rings, or by other bookbinding
means (not shown). Sheets 345-347 represent a sheet means for
storing records. With simultaneous reference to FIGS. 23, 23a,
23b and 19, the embodiment is now explained in detail.
FIG. 23b sets forth a typical data entry device suppor 330,
usually a book cover, having a front cover 311 and a rear cover
312. Front cover 311 and rear cover 312 are movably attached tc
spine 313 applying conventional book fabrication, and may be ,,
opened and closed accordingly. Covers 311 and 312 are formed of
generally planar material like cardboard or plastic sheet. The
front cover 311 supports a first plurality of depressible keys
384, 385 and 386 arranged in an equally spaced column near the
.
091/07715 PCT/US90/06631
z ~ 9 -26-
outer left edge and a second plurality of depressible keys 393and 394 arranged in a equally spaced row near the upper edge. In
a similar pattern, rear cover 312 supports a first plurality of
depressible keys 381, 382 and 383 arranged in an equally spaced
column near the right outer edge and a second plurality of
depressible keys 391 and 392 arranged in a equally spaced row
near the upper edge. It should be noted that keys 381-386 are
record related keys, and keys 391-394 are sheet position related
keys. Both represent a key means, or a switch means for
selecting a sheet and a record, as explained below.
The structure of the keys, such as record related keys 381-
386, and the sheet related keys 391-394 is expla1ned in FIG. 18
in greater detail. The type of key structure selected is limited
only by the physical constraints of the application. Referring
again to FIG. 23b, rear cover 312 supports the electrical
interface 321 along its upper edge, which includes connector 320
for communication with an outside system, such as computer system
or data communication system. The codes (key closures and
capacitance values) generated within the invention data book 310
are sent to the system via interface 321, which includes
components and integrated circuits 421 necessary for producing
the desired transmission format. An electro-optical display (not
shown) is also typically included in interface 321. In the
preferred embodiment, record related keys 381-386, and sheet
related keys 391-394 are directly connected to predetermined pins
in connector 320. In alternative embodiments, the record related
keys 381-386, and sheet related keys 391-394 are connected to an
integrated circuit encoder that converts a discrete key closure
into a hexadecimal output, for example, which is sent to the
system via connector 320.
A plurality of support-electrical elements 322, 323, and
324, usually support-capacitor plates, as explained in connection
with FIG. 22b, are arranged in an evenly spaced column in the
middle of the front cover 311. Similarly, connecting pads 377,
378 and 379, explained in connection with FIGS. la and 3, are
arranged in an evenly spaced column in the middle of rear cover
312. Multiple conductor sets 317 and 318, representing a
connection means, and provide electrical connections ~rom key
arrays 381-386, and 391-394, respectively, to electrical
... .. :. : .. , ., : -
. . . - . .
: ~,. . .. ..
~, - ... .. ..
-.:. ~ . : ; .
. .. ; ' , . ' . !~ ,
W O 91~0771~ -27- PCl/US90/06631
Z~8~9
interface 321. ~imilarly, conductor set 319 provides electrical
connection from capacitor plates 322, 323, and 324, as well from
connecting pads 377, 378, and 379 to electrical interface 321.
FIG. 23a is a vertically expanded sectional view of book 310
along line 23a-23a in FIG. 23. Front panel 314 covers the inner
face of front cover 311. Front cover 311 and front panel 314 are
paired and sealed together along the edges. Similarly, rear
panel 316 overlies the inner face of rear cover 312. Rear cover
312 and rear panel 316 are paired and sealed together along the
edges. Panels 314 and 316, are made of thin and flexible
material and cover key arrays 381-386, and 391-394. Panels 314
and 316 carry visually marked key-press indexes 399, seen in FIG.
23, each key-press index being positioned over a respective key
in key arrays 381-386, and 391-394, shown in broken lines. A ~'
slot 326 is formed in panel 314 and extended vertically parallel
to the interior edge. The slot 326 provides access into a
receiving pocket 338 defined between front cover 311 and
overlying front panel 314. Similarly, a slot 328 is formed in
panel 316. Slot 328 provides access into receiving pocket 339,
defined between rear cover 312 and panel 316.
FIG. 23 shows face 345a of sheet 345 defining plurality of
record spaces 332. Each record space 332 is located between two
horizontal and doted lines, upon which visually imparted
information is available, in readable or in other form, for
operator reference. The types of information intended for
storage in the record spaces include legends, symbols, labels,
records, graphics, description of macro instructions, data
strings, telephone numbers, and more. The three record spaces
332 on sheet face 345a are imprinted with the consecutive
numerals ~T,2,3~, respectively. These numerals are printed in the
record spaces as labels for record keys 381, 382, and 383. Each
record space 332 is aligned with, and adjacent to one of record
keys 381-386. For example, label ~!~ is aligned with record key
381. In an alternative embodiment (not shown) the association
between record keys and record spaces (instead of alignment) is
made by indexes such as graphical pointer or alpha numeric
designator. It should be understood that all sheets of arrays
71, 72 and 73 are provided with record spaces and label examples:
sheet face 345b is provided with labels ~',i,6~, while sheet faces
.', . '. ` ~ '
. ~, .
I~
WO91/0771; PCT/US90/06631
2~ 9 - 28- _
346a and 346b bear labels ~j,5, 9n and ~10,it,12N, respectively (not
shown). Each sheet provides along its upper edge at least one
arrow-like sheet-index 341, 342, 343, 3S1, 352, 353, 353, 361,
362 and 363. Sheet-indexes 343, 353, and 363 are on the "b" face
of the respective sheet of sheet arrays 371, 372, and 373, and
therefore not visible in FIG. 19. The sheet-index location is
uni~ue for each sheet within one array. As the sheets are turned
the sheet-index changes location. Sheet-index 341 points to
sheet key 391, sheet-index 342 points to sheet key 392 (visible
in FIG . 19 ), and so on.
What has been described in FIGS. 23, 23a, and 23b is a data
entry book with a plurality of keys 381-386, and 391-394
positioned upon the covers, and a plurality of sheets 345, 346
and 347 each bearing a plurality of record spaces~332. Every
record space aligns with a corresponding record key 381-386.
When a sheet is turned there is another record space 332 that
aligns with the same record key. For example three labels '1,7,
t3~ located on sheet faces 345a, 346a and 347a respectively align
with record key 81. Accordingly, turning over sheet 345,
relabels record key 81 from Jt~ to '7~, on sheet 346. Turning
over sheet 346, relabels key 381 from '7~ to ~3~, on sheet 347,
and so on. This relabeling function offers the operator several
labels per key-which is an object of the present invention.
Another object of the invention is to inform the system
which particular label (record space) is selected by the
operator. In order to do that the operator depresses one record
key (381-386) aligned with the selected record space 332 (or with
a record index), and then depresses one sheet key (391 -394)
aligned with the sheet index (341, 342, 343, or 344) located on
the sheet faces faclng the operator in operative position. As
shown in FIG. 23, sheet 345 is on top of the stack, and the first
record space bears label ~t~ aligned with record key 381, while
sheet index 341 is aligned with sheet key 391.
Still another object of the invention is to use the same
keys (record key 381 and sheet key 391 identifying label ~t, for
example) for identification of labels 't9~ and '3~ located on
sheets 355 and 365 of sheet arrays 372 and 373, or of exchange
booklets 440 and 450. This is made possible through applying
sheet array identification or booklet identification, which
- . , I,.. ..
.. .. ~:
' ~ - :
, '~ ,- ' ~"' ` ' :.
: . .
WO91/0771~ -29- : PCT/US90/06631
2~8~9
automatically provides codes (capacitance values) corresponding
to the array, or booklet, in use (operation) as explaind above.
Table 2 illustrates the conditions for sending the system
information about selection of a label (among the 54 labels)
within data book 310 assembled ~ith arrays 37i, 372 and 373.
Table 2
-
Record Located On 9heet Record Array Capacitance
Label Sheet Face ~;ey ~ey In Use Value/Code
1 345 345a 391 381 371 C56 * 0
2 345 345a 391 382 371 and
4 345 345b 392 384 371 c67 * 0
..........................................................
19 355 355a 391 381 372 C56 = 0 and
355 355a 391 382 372 C67 + 0
.
...........................................................
37 365 365a 391 381 373 C56 * 0 and
38 365 365a 391 381 373 C67 = 0
Accordingly, label '1~located on face 345a of sheet 345, of
array 371, designates keys 381 and 391 to be depressed while the
data book is opened to expose sheet face 345a. In this position,
array dividers 350, 360 and 370 are stacked in parallel on top of
rear cover 312 (seen in FIG. 21a) and generate Capacitance
Values/Codes C56 * 0 and C67 * 0, as indicated in Table 1. Under
those conditions label Dt~ is correctly identified.
Now, selecting label ~19a located on face 355a of sheet 355,
of array 372, designates the same keys 381 and 391 to be
depressed while the data book is opened to expose sheet face
355a, which positions the array dividers (as specified in Table
1) to generate Capacitance Value/Code C56 = 0 and C67 * 0. ~nder
those contitions label a19N is correctly identified.
Finally, selecting label ~37N located on face 365a of sheet
-: . .. , :
.. . .
O 91/0~71; 2~ 9 -30- PCT/US90/06631
365, of array 373, designates the same keys 381 and 391 to be
depressed while the data book is opened to expose sheet face
365a, which positions the array dividers (as specified in Table
1) to generate Capacitance Value/Code C56 ~ 0 and C67 = 0. Under
those conditions label ~3~N is correctly identified.
The alternative embodiment with floating dividers in FIG.
21d generates corresponding capacitance values for sheet array in
use (tabulated in Table 1) and accordingly provides the necessary
information for label identification within the sheet arrays.
Similarly, the capacitance values produced by the exchange
booklets 440 and 450 when inserted in data book 310, as described
above, will identify selected labels in similar manner.
The relabelable keys, such as 100 in FIG. 5, 265 in FIG. 15,
and 382 in FIG. 23a are supported by a book cover or the like.-
To achieve a thin and partially flexible book cover, the present
invention employs low profile flexible diaphragm membrane type
keys. It will be apparent, however, that many alternative keys
may be used in the presenl: invention. FIG. 18 sets forth a
magnified section view of key 265 taken along section lines 18-18
in FIG. 15, and in general, shows key 382 in FIG. 23a. In the
following reference is made to FIG. 23a. Book cover 312 formed
of an insulating material supports a pair of conductors 317a and
317b. Insulating substrates 426 and 428 define an aperture,429
positioned above and centered upon conductors 317a and 317b. A
flexible contact 387 is made of an electrically conductive
material and is shaped as a dome. In its normal/open position,
contact 387 is spaced from conductors 317a and 317b. A flexible r
panel 316 is supported upon substrate 428 and supports a
downwardly extending projection 269. The thickness of substrate
428 is such that projection 269 is slightly distant from flexible
contact 387. This levels flexible panel 316 and minimizes
probability for unintentional key actuation. Sheets 375 are
supported upon panel 316 in accordance with the above-described
structures. In the position shown in FIG. 18, no pressure is
applied to key 387 and as a result flexible contact 387 remains
spaced from contacts 317a and 317b. However, if a downward force
is applied by the operator to sheets 375, which in turn is
transmitted to flexible panel 316 to force projection 269 against
flexible contact 387. The downward flexing of panel 316 forces
.
WO91/0771~ -31- 2~t~ 8~9 PCT/US90/U6631
contact 387 downwardly (shown in dotted line 387') into contact
with conductors 317a and 317b producing an electrical connection
therebetween. When the force is released, the resilience of
flexible contact 387 and flexible cover 316 return flexible
contact 387 to the normal/open position.
What has been shown is a multipage data entry book capable
of providing relabeling and reassignment of a plurality of keys
operative within the data book. The data sheets within the data
entry book are configured to provide a capacitive and/or
conductive indication of the relative positions of the sheets or
the sheet arrays within the data book at any given position.
Thls information is then available to provide reassignment and
relabeling information for the plurality of keys within the data
-- ~ entry book.
While particular embodiments of the invention have been
shown and described, it wi.ll be obvious to those skilled in the
art that changes and modifications may be made without departing
from the invention in its broader aspects. Therefore the aim in
the appended claims is to cover all such changes and
modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the
invention.
.
: - :
, ~ : ', - ', :
;
