Patent ID: 8917499
Filing Date: 2014-12-23
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
1. A tri-panel and bi-fold foldable keyboard device having i) a folded storage configuration, and ii) an unfolded use configuration configured to selectively carry and operatively couple to a tablet computer, the device comprising: a) a pair of keyboard panels pivotally coupled together by a keyboard hinge, and having a proximal panel with a free proximal edge and a distal keyboard panel with a distal edge opposite the free proximal edge, both of the pair of keyboard panels having a plurality of keys defining an alphanumeric keyboard with the plurality of keys arranged in rows and the keyboard hinge disposed between two adjacent rows of the alphanumeric keyboard, and with a spacing between adjacent rows without the keyboard hinge being substantially the same as a spacing between the two adjacent rows with the keyboard hinge; b) the pair of keyboard panels folding between i) the unfolded use configuration with the pair of keyboard panels oriented substantially parallel and substantially co-planar, and with the keys of each of the pair of keyboard panels facing outwardly and exposed for use, and ii) the folded storage configuration in which the pair of keyboard panels are oriented substantially parallel and facing one another, and with the keys of each of the pair of keyboard panels facing towards one another; and c) a stand panel pivotally coupled to the distal edge of the distal keyboard panel at a stand hinge, and foldable between i) the unfolded use configuration in which the stand panel forms an obtuse angle with respect to the pair of keyboard panels configured to receive the tablet computer, and ii) the folded storage configuration in which the stand panel is folded over the proximal keyboard panel with the proximal keyboard panel between the stand panel and the distal keyboard panel.