Article comprising a computer-style keyboard

Abstract

An improved keyboard, and a data terminal incorporating same, is disclosed. The present keyboard advantageously includes a keyboard membrane having, on an upper side, a plurality of raised regions upon which character designators can be placed. A plurality of upper key members are disposed on a lower side of the keyboard membrane. Each upper key member is advantageously structurally adapted to return itself, after removal of an actuating force, to an unactuated position. The raised regions on the upper side, and the upper key members on the lower side of the keyboard membrane are advantageously molded from a single elastomeric layer, thereby replacing hundreds of parts in conventional computer-style keyboards using sliding-plunger type key mechanisms. A plurality of lower key members are disposed on a circuit board underneath the keyboard membrane. The lower key members are structurally adapted to prevent “rock over” when a user depresses a raised region somewhat off-center. In some embodiments, the present keyboard advantageously includes a wire braid disposed on the keyboard membrane that functions as a flexible armor to protect underlying keyboard elements. The protective braid is physically adapted to engage features near an edge of the keyboard membrane so that the wire braid can be secured to the keyboard. In addition to possessing features suitable for engaging the protective braid, the keyboard membrane advantageously includes a seal for engaging a keyboard housing. When so engaged, the seal provides a substantially liquid-resistant keyboard.