Keyboard switch actuator and locking assembly

Claim 1

A key actuator and locking mechanism for use with a keyboard having a matrix of key-receiving openings for positioning a plurality of key housings thereon wherein the improvement comprises (a) a first and second manually operated switch key, each including a key stem projecting out of an identical switch housing which are adapted to be selectively mounted within the key-receiving openings formed in the keyboard, (b) a latch plate mounted on and movable with the stem of said first switch key and providing a latching cam extending transversely of and in spaced relation to said stem of said first key switch, (c) a latch spring consisting of a single spring wire adapted to embrace the housing of said first switch key and providing a deflectable raised biased latch leg positioned in the path of movement of said latching cam when said first switch key is depressed and cooperating therewith to releaseably hold said first switch key in a depressed position, and (d) a latch releasing cam carried by the stem of said second switch key and engageable with said deflectable latch leg when said second switch key is depressed so as to deflect said latch leg against its bias out of engagement with said latching cam to release said first switch key from its depressed position.