Programmable keyboard for a typewriter or similar article

Claim 1

A programmable keyboard apparatus for allowing a user to select any one of a predetermined number of keyboard arrangements to enable the entry of alphanumeric data via said keyboard, said aparatus comprising: a plurality of fixed input keys arranged in rows and columns according to a standard typewriter keyboard format each said key includes a top surface having a straight top edge from which extends a partial circular section with said circular section containing more than 180 degrees; separate indicating areas, each one associated with one of said keys and positioned proximate to each key in said format for selectively displaying a proper symbol associated with said key and indicative of a character to be provided by said key according to said keyboard arrangements, each said separate indicating area including a transparent window positioned proximate said straight top edge of said associated key; means, associated with said indicating areas, for selecting any one of said predetermined number of arrangements to cause each indicating area to display that symbol associated with that character to be furnished by said key according to said selected keyboard arrangement, said selector means including a switch capable of being moved into any one of a predetermined number of positions indicative of selecting a particular keyboard arrangement; and means, coupled to said switch, for moving a predetermined distance upon a movement of said switch said means including an elongated slide member having parallel longitudinal slots one for each row of keys with each slot positioned over an associated row of keys and having areas between said slots that are positioned beneath said transparent windows in each of said rows, and indicia means coupled to said slide with said indicia being indicative of said symbols whereby when said means is moved, said slide moves to cause a selected symbol to appear in said window indicative of said character to be provided.