Abstract This invention relates to ergonomic keycaps that snap on the keys or attach directly to the keyboard of computer keyboards, word processors, electronic typewriters and other data input devices. The ergonomic keycaps are approximately the same length and width as a standard keycap but are a different height. The ergonomic keys will be positioned over the data entry keys of a computer keyboard in a manner that forms an inverted V or a wave shape. The inverted V or wave shape allows the operator's hands to be maintained in a position that should reduce repetitive stress injuries. The snap on ergonomic keycaps may be formed from flexible plastic and are designed to fit snugly onto the standard data entry keys of a keyboard. The caps design will be cup shaped and a sufficient fixation to the keys may be achieved through friction forces, vacuum forces, a combination of friction and vacuum forces, a mechanical attachment or any other suitable means know to those skilled in the industry. While intending the ergonomic keycaps to be affixed strongly to each data entry key of the computer keyboard, in one embodiment, the ergonomic keycaps may not be permanently attached and therefore may be removable.
A keyboard with a plurality of keys adapted to electronically transmit keystroke information, said keyboard comprising: a keypad where each keycap is fixed and nonadjustable and the "cap lock" keycap is higher than the "A" keycap, the "A" keycap is higher than the "S" keycap, the "D" keycap is higher than the "S" keycap, the "F" keycap is higher than the "D" keycap, the "G" keycap is higher than the "F" keycap, the "G" keycap is substantially the same height as the "H" keycap, the "H" keycap is higher than the "J" keycap, the "J" keycap is higher than the "K" keycap, the "K" keycap is higher than the "L" keycap, the "L" keycap is higher than the ":/;" and ""/'" keycaps and the "return" is higher than the ":/;" and ""/'" keycaps.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
133 words
A keyboard with a plurality of keys adapted to electronically transmit keystroke information, said keyboard comprising: a keypad where each keycap is fixed and nonadjustable and the "cap lock" keycap is higher than the "A" keycap, the "A" keycap is higher than the "S" keycap, the "D" keycap is higher than the "S" keycap, the "F" keycap is higher than the "D" keycap, the "G" keycap is higher than the "F" keycap, the "G" keycap is substantially the same height as the "H" keycap, the "H" keycap is higher than the "J" keycap, the "J" keycap is higher than the "K" keycap, the "K" keycap is higher than the "L" keycap, the "L" keycap is higher than the ":/;" and ""/'" keycaps and the "return" is higher than the ":/;" and ""/'" keycaps.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
26 words
The keyboard as claimed in claim 1 wherein the keycaps are a one piece fixed nonadjustable keycaps of varied heights with both curved and straight extensions.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
22 words
The keyboard as claimed in claim 1 wherein the keycaps are attached to the data entry keys of a conventional computer keyboard.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
24 words
The keyboard as claimed in claim 1 wherein the keycaps are attached to the base plate or actuator switches of a conventional computer keyboard.