Logitech Europe S.a.

Logitech, Inc.

Keith J Tritschler

Denis Pavillard

Peter Sheehan

John Skeehan

Patrick Monney

Alain Tabasso

Diarmuid Macmahon

Brian Stephens

Alexis Richard

Cathal Loughnane

Sylvain Sauvage

Antoine A Merminod

Linus Chien

Jean-Marc Flueckiger

Marcel Twohig

Mathew Bates

Fred Swan

Guy Raeber

Sergio Lazzarotto

Ming Yu

David Maher

Diarmuid MacMahon

Chris Pate

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a computer keyboard having user-manipulable components for multi-media applications and additional computer interface and control purposes that are desirably designed for ease of manufacturing and cost effectiveness. A preformed roller module has a small top cover and base forming an enclosure to hold the entire roller mechanism, including the electronic components. The roller module is then attached to the keyboard. A volume control dial is provided for audio volume control. The dial desirably is also preformed and then attached to the keyboard. Keyboard feet may be provided on the rear edge of the keyboard for tilting the keyboard without taking up space at the bottom of the keyboard, so that the keyboard height profile can be kept low. An opaque keyboard frame may be placed over the key mechanisms of the keys to hide them from sight, and a translucent top case may be placed over the opaque keyboard frame. The keys protrude through openings of the opaque keyboard frame and the translucent top case.

Computer keyboard

A full-size keyboard with an integrated laptop stand. In one embodiment, the laptop stand is part of a cover for a portable keyboard, with the cover unfolding and including a pop-up stand for supporting a portable computer. The stand is thus connected to the keyboard rather than being a separate article. The cover includes electronics, such as a USB hub and ports, an MP3 player docking station, speakers, etc. A flexible hinge connects the keyboard and cover, with imbedded electrical flex connectors. A presence sensor, such as a PIR sensor, shuts off battery use by these electronics when the user is not around.

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Dublin, Ireland

Keith J Tritschler