Patent ID: 6441753
Filing Date: 2002-08-27
Classification: G06F,H01H,H04M

Abstract:
A data entry device for an apparatus, the data entry device including:a plurality of switches; a movable button member spaced apart from the plurality of switches, the button member including a first contoured surface and a second contoured surface, the first contoured surface defining a plurality of key regions and the second contoured surface defining a plurality of plungers, each of the plurality of plungers adapted to contact and actuate a corresponding one of the plurality of switches when a corresponding one of the plurality of key regions is depressed; and a base for supporting the button member at a predetermined distance away from the plurality of switches, the base including a central hub and a plurality of legs extending radially from the hub; wherein the second contoured surface includes a plurality of radially-extending grooves that interface with the corresponding plurality of legs to prevent the button member from simultaneously actuating more than one of the plurality of switches, and prevent the button member from rotating relative to the base.