Computer graphics processing and selective visual display system – Display peripheral interface input device – Including keyboard
Reexamination Certificate
1998-08-27
2001-07-24
Brier, Jeffery (Department: 2672)
Computer graphics processing and selective visual display system
Display peripheral interface input device
Including keyboard
C345S158000, C341S022000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06266048
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to the field of personal digital assistants (PDA's) and more particularly to keyboards for PDA's. In particular, this invention provides a space saving virtual display/keyboard for a PDA.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Personal digital assistants (PDA's), such as the Apple Newton or the Palm PILOT, have become very useful devices for carrying personal notes, calendars, appointments, phone numbers, ‘to do’ lists, etc. PDA's are hand held personal computers that help to manage personal information. It would be desirable for PDA's to be as small as possible, such as the size of a credit card, so that they could be carried in a wallet, purse, pocket, brief case, etc. Two of the main limiting factors to the size of PDA's is the requirement for a reasonable quality display and some means for user input, such as a keyboard or area for pen input. To date there has been a tremendous tug-of-war between the desirable small size for portability and the larger size necessary for user input. Accordingly, it would be desirable for a PDA to be relatively small for portability, yet also have a reasonably sized display and user input area.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The above and other aspects of the present invention are accomplished in a personal digital assistant (PDA) having a virtual display/keyboard. In the PDA according to the present invention, the PDA uses a projection display to create a virtual screen and a projection “finger sensor” to create a virtual keyboard on any flat, light colored surface.
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Blackman Anthony J.
Brier Jeffery
Hewlett--Packard Company
LandOfFree
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