Importance

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Abstract

A keyboard assembly for handheld and subnotebook computers that offers the functionality and comfort of a full-size keyboard and increases the effective screen display area without affecting the footprint of the closed computer. The keyboard assembly includes two keyboard areas, a primary keyboard which slides apart at the center to reveal an auxiliary keyboard area beneath. The primary keyboard is located on two movable pallets that slide in opposite directions, and which includes sufficient QWERTY and control keys to allow the handheld computer to be operated for most uses without accessing the auxiliary keyboard area. The auxiliary keyboard area becomes exposed when the keyboard pallets are moved apart to the extended position. The auxiliary keyboard area contains keys that in conjunction with the primary keyboard provide the functionality of a full keyboard, and can also increase the effective screen area by containing menu keys and status bars that would normally be accessed by touch sensitive displays. Further, by allocating keys and functions form the primary area to the auxiliary area, the keys for the primary keyboard can be full size, allowing normal touch typing even for the smallest computers.

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First Claim