text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|Jun 6, 1995
|Filing date
|Apr 14, 1994
|Priority date
|Sep 1, 1992
|Fee status
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Kenny R. Spence
|Original Assignee
|Key Tronic Corporation
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (23), Referenced by (48), Classifications (41), Legal Events (8)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
This patent resulted from a continuation-in-part application based upon U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/093,042, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,358,344, filed Jul. 15, 1993, which was a continuation-in-part application based on U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/939,103, filed Sep. 1, 1992, now abandoned.
This invention is related to keyboards having full travel, self-leveling keyswitches.
Conventional keyboards generally include high profile, full-travel keyswitches that included a plunger that is slidably mounted within a housing. The plunger is designed to slide downwardly in a linear path when the keytop is depressed. Downward pressure on the keytop actuates an electrical switch beneath the plunger.
In many applications, including alphanumeric keyboards for notebook and lap top computers, it is desirable to have keyboards with keyswitches having a shorter overall height, generally referred to as "low profile" keyswitches. One problem which has been encountered in designing low profile keyswitches is that it has been difficult to incorporate desirable characteristics of the prior high profile keyswitches while reducing the keyswitch height. Such desirable characteristics included full-travel so that the amount of downward movement of the keytop would be substantially the same in the "low profile" design as in the "full profile" design. Other favorable features included a tactile feel and overtravel. In the past, low profile keyboards have been associated with low quality keyswitches that were undesirable for high speed data entry.
A full-travel keyboard generally refers to a substantial movement of the keytop so that an operator will only activate a keyswitch through intentional movement of the keytop over a desired depression distance. Generally, a "full-travel" keyboard has keyswitches that require downward movement of approximately four millimeters in travel. A "low profile" keyboard generally refers to the height of the keyswitch assembly from the top of the keytop to the lower part of the keyswitch structure. Preferably it should be approximately eight millimeters or less in total height.
A further desirable feature is that of overtravel in which the electrical contact is made before the keytop is fully depressed. An overtravel feature provides for more reliable switch operation because keyboard operators often inadvertently fail to press the keyswitch down the entire distance, particularly when typing at high rates of speed. When an over-travel feature is provided, the keyswitch will remain activated or "turn on" as long as the plunger is depressed at least to the point where electrical contact is made. The structure provides that the key may be pressed beyond the electrical contact point while maintaining the switch in a closed condition.
It is particularly desirable in notebook and lap top personal computers to minimize the size and weight of the entire computer. The size and weight of the keyboard is very important since it is generally built in or intimately attached to the housing of the personal computer. However, the use of low profile keyboards in notebook and lap top personal computers give the impression that such computers are inferior for high speed data entry.
It is further desirable to minimize the number of keyboard components to reduce the costs of manufacture and assembly.
One suggested way to reduce the number of components is to use unitary molded rubber keyboards such as illustrated in the Calder U.S. Pat. No. 4,540,865 granted Sep. 10, 1985 and the Church U.S. Pat. No. 4,764,770 granted Aug. 16, 1988. Molded rubber keyboards have been used in combination with overlying printed circuit boards to provide a keyboard structure which is less expensive than those keyboards having full travel and a separate push button member separately mounted in a frame. The molded rubber keyboards generally comprise a elastomeric sheet integral with upwardly projecting rubber keys. Each elastomeric key is located above a recess in the sheet and has a depending projection to actuate the keyswitches on the printed circuit board located directly below.
A principal disadvantage, besides not being able to provide a full-travel keyboard, is a tendency of each individual keytop of the unitary rubber key structure to wobble or move laterally as it is depressed. The user feels that the keyswitch lacks precision in operation and thus identifies the keyboard as being of a low quality.
To overcome such disadvantages, U.S. Pat. No. 4,540,865 provides guides 38 intermediate the keytops to maintain the keytops substantially level as the keytop is depressed. U.S. Pat. No. 4,764,770 provides an interconnecting membrane 40 for maintaining the keytops in a linear path as the keytops are depressed.
One of the objects of this invention is to provide a keyboard that overcomes the above-identified problems in providing a full-travel keyboard having tactile feel and overtravel features utilizing an integral key structure.
These and other objectives and advantages of this invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment.
Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below. The same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to reference like components.
FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a lap top computer having an alphanumeric keyboard with accompanying function keys of the preferred design.
FIG. 2 is a fragmentary enlarged isolation view of a single keyswitch of the keyboard illustrated in FIG. 1, showing a keytop formed integrally with a common base sheet.
FIG. 3 is a vertical cross sectional view taken along lines 3--3 in FIG. 1 showing the side profiles of three adjacent keyswitches in undepressed states.
FIG. 4 is a side elevational view similar to FIG. 3 except showing one of the keyswitches being depressed.
FIG. 5 is a vertical cross sectional view taken along line 5--5 in FIG. 2 showing the internal details of a single keyswitch structure.
FIG. 6 is a vertical cross sectional view similar to FIG. 5 except showing the keyswitch in a depressed condition actuating electrical contacts.
FIG. 7 is a horizontal cross sectional view taken along line 7--7 in FIG. 5.
FIG. 8 is a horizontal cross sectional view taken along line 8--8 in FIG. 6.
FIG. 9 is a vertical cross sectional view similar to FIG. 5 except showing an alternative keyswitch design.
FIG. 10 is a graph showing the force versus travel of a keyswitch during both the downward motion and the upward motion in providing a substantially full-travel keyswitch with a tactile feel feature.
FIG. 11 is a vertical cross sectional view similar to a view taken along line 5--5 in FIG. 2 showing another alternative keyswitch structure according to this invention. FIG. 11 illustrates the keyswitch in an expanded, non-actuating position.
FIG. 12 is a vertical cross sectional view similar to FIG. 11 except showing the keyswitch in a depressed condition actuating an electrical contact.
FIG. 13 is a vertical cross sectional view similar to that taken along line 5--5 in FIG. 2 and shows yet another alternative keyswitch structure according to this invention having a modified panel arrangement. FIG. 13 illustrates the keyswitch in an expanded, non-actuating position.
FIG. 14 is a vertical cross sectional view similar to FIG. 13 except showing the keyswitch in an intermediate position.
FIG. 15 is a vertical cross sectional view similar to FIG. 13 except showing the keyswitch in a depressed position actuating an electrical contact.
FIG. 16 is a vertical cross sectional view of the FIG. 13 keyswitch, and illustrates a preferred embodiment of a force adjustment means for controllably varying the initial depression force required to depress the computer key.
FIG. 17 is a vertical cross sectional view of a modified keyswitch structure similar to the FIG. 13 key design. FIG. 17 illustrates the keyswitch in an expanded, non-actuating position.
FIG. 18 is a vertical cross sectional view similar to FIG. 17 except showing the modified keyswitch in a depressed condition actuating an electrical contact.
FIG. 19 is an exploded, isometric view of a keyboard according to another embodiment of this invention. The FIG. 19 keyboard includes a keytop return sheet having multiple leaf springs interposed between the keytops and the switch membrane.
FIG. 20 is a vertical cross sectional view showing a keyswitch structure of the FIG. 19 keyboard similar to the view taken along line 5--5 in FIG. 2. FIG. 20 illustrates the keyswitch in an expanded, non-actuating position.
FIG. 21 is a vertical cross sectional view similar to FIG. 20 except showing the keyswitch in an intermediate position.
FIG. 22 is a vertical cross sectional view similar to FIG. 20 except showing the keyswitch in a depressed position actuating an electrical contact.
This disclosure of the invention is submitted in furtherance of the constitutional purposes of the U.S. Patent Laws "to promote the progress of science and useful arts" (Article 1, Section 8).
The disclosure contains several different embodiments according to this invention. Where appropriate, like components or features will be referenced with the same numeral. To avoid redundant discussion, only different or distinct features of one embodiment as compared to another embodiment will be discussed in detail.
A preferred embodiment of the improved keyboard is illustrated in FIG. 1 showing an alphanumeric keyboard designated generally with the numeral 10 that is an integral component of a lap top or notebook personal computer 12. The keyboard 10 includes a plurality of full-travel self leveling keyswitches 14. In the preferred embodiment, the keyswitches include alphanumeric keyswitches and function keyswitches. The keyswitches 14 have a low profile design that is principally illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6. Low profile meaning that the distance "h" between the top of the key cap and the bottom of a support plate is approximately eight millimeters or less (FIGS. 5, 6, 11, and 12). In the preferred embodiments, each of the keyswitches has a full-travel feature meaning that the keytop travels a distance "t" of approximately four millimeters from its elevated non-actuating position to a depressed actuating position as illustrated in FIGS. 5, 6, 11, and 12.
In addition to having a low profile design with a full travel capability, each keyswitch has a tactile feel (force-displacement characteristic) as illustrated in FIG. 10 in which the force required to initially depress the switch is greater than the force required to continue the downward movement through switch contact. Additionally, each of the keyswitches 14 have an overtravel feature in which the keyswitch may be further depressed after electrical contact has been made.
The keyswitches 14 are arranged in the keyboard array or pattern at specific keyswitch locations dictated by the specific keyboard design and application. Although the alphanumeric keyboard 10 is illustrated in conjunction with a lap top or notebook personal computer, such alphanumeric keyboard 10 may be utilized in many other data entry environments.
The keyboard 10 includes a keyboard housing 15 that houses the keyswitches 14. A rigid backing plate 16 is provided to support the keyswitches 14 as part of the keyboard 10 (FIGS. 3 and 6). The backing plate 16 may be made of a metal, or rigid plastic. In some embodiments, the rigid backing plate 16 may be an integral portion of the keyboard housing 15.
The keyboard 10 includes a printed circuit board 18 as an integral part of the keyswitch for generating electrical signals through electrical contacts when the keyswitch is depressed.
In the preferred embodiment as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, printed circuit board 18 is in the form of a flexible membrane structure having a membrane layer 20 with electrical contact elements 22 printed thereon at each keyswitch location. The printed circuit board 18 further includes a second membrane layer 24 having complementary electrical contacts 26 printed thereon. Preferably, the membrane layers 20 and 24 are separated by spacer layer 28. Although a specific separate spacer layer 28 is illustrated in the drawings, the necessary spacing between electrical contacts 22 and 26 may be provided by rather thick non-conductive traces formed on the membrane layers 20 and 24. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the spacer layer 28 has a section 30 between the keyswitch locations and a central section or island 32 at the keyswitch location itself. The electrical contact areas 22 and 26 are located between the spacer sections 30 and 32.
The keyboard 10 further includes an integral key structure 40 overlying the printed circuit board 18 that is constructed from a moldable synthetic resin material; preferably of an elastomeric material such as polypropylene, or thermo-plastic elastomers. The integral key structure 40 includes a plurality of keytops 42 and keytop support substructures 44. Each of the keytops 42 has a top surface 42a and a lower surface 42b (FIGS. 5 and 6). The lower surface 42b defines a cavity 43 immediately below the keytop 42.
The keytop support substructure 44 includes a base sheet 46 that overlies the printed circuit 18 having openings or apertures 47 at each keyswitch location. The individual key support means 48 prevents any noticeable lateral movement or wobble of the keytop 42 as it is depressed.
The individual keytop support elements 48 include, in a preferred embodiment, at least three hinge members and preferably four hinge members 50a, 50b, 50c and 50d that are arranged in a substantially rectangular configuration with hinge elements 50a, 50c and 50b, 50d forming opposed hinge pairs.
Each of the hinge members 50 includes a rigid upper hinge panel 52 that is integrally connected to the keytop 42 through an upper hinge web 54 defining an upper pivot axis 56. The rigid upper hinge panel 52 is designed to pivot about the upper pivot axis 56 from an expanded orientation (FIG. 5) to a contracted orientation (FIG. 6).
The hinge member 50 further includes a rigid lower hinge panel 58 that is integrally interconnected to the base sheet 46 through a lower hinge web 60 defining a lower pivot axis 62. The lower hinge panel 58 is designed to pivot between an expanded orientation illustrated in FIG. 5 to a contracted orientation illustrated in FIG. 6 in which the lower hinge panel 58 projects into the aperture 47 as illustrated in FIG. 6. The upper hinge panel 52 and the lower hinge panel 58 are interconnected by an integral intermediate web 64 defining an intermediate pivot axis 66. The upper pivot axis 56 is positioned inward from the lower pivot axis 62 relative to the linear path of the keytop to cause the upper hinge panel 52 and the lower hinge panel 58 to pivot inward to a contracted and slightly downward orientation during overtravel.
Although the panels of this embodiment are configured to fold inward beneath the keytop, the panels can be arranged to fold outward as the keytop is depressed. Examples of this alternative panel arrangement are described below with reference to FIGS. 13-22.
It should be noted that the upper hinge panel 52 and the lower hinge panel 58 when in the expanded condition are substantially upright at a slight bend in which the combined bend angle Θ as illustrated in FIG. 5 is preferably between 170� and 178�. Such a feature causes the keyswitch to exhibit a tactile feel characteristic requiring a rather large force to initially depress the keyswitch and then a lesser force to continue the movement of the keytop during switch contact as illustrated in the force versus travel diagram of FIG. 10.
The rigid upper hinge panel 52 includes an outer face surface 70 and an inner face surface 72. The distance between the surfaces 70 and 72 is preferably much greater than the corresponding thickness of the webs 54, 60 and 64 so that the thickness of the upper hinge panel provides considerably greater rigidity so that the upper hinge panel 52 will not buckle or appreciably bend as the keytop is depressed. The rigid upper hinge panel 52 extends between side surfaces 74 and 76 (FIG. 5). It should be noted that in the preferred embodiment the side surfaces 74 and 76 are inclined inward from the upper hinge web 54 to the intermediate hinge web 64.
The rigid lower hinge panel 58 includes an outer face surface 78 and an inner face surface 80 defining a thickness that is considerably greater than the thickness of the webs 54, 60 and 64 so that the lower hinge panel does not buckle or appreciably bend but remains rigid relative to the webs as the keytop is depressed. The rigid lower hinge panel 58 includes side surfaces 82 and 84 that are inclined from the lower pivot axis 64 to the intermediate pivot axis 66 to form a "V" orientation, in conjunction with side surfaces 74 and 76, so that as the hinge members 50 fold inwardly they do not interfere with each other as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8. It should be noted that preferably the distance between the side surfaces 74, 76 and 82, 84 is greater than 50% of the side dimension of the keytop 42 to maintain a rigid parallelogram configuration to maintain the keytop in a self-leveling orientation as it is depressed to prevent lateral movement of the keytop.
It should be further noted that the inward face surface 80 of the lower hinge element serves as an actuating member for engaging and deflecting the membrane layer 20 downward bringing electrical contact 22 into engagement with electrical contact 26 to generate an electrical signal indicating that the particular keyswitch has been depressed. It should be noted that overtravel is provided by further pivotal movement of the hinge panels 52 and 58 about the pivot axes 56 and 62.
The integral key structure 40 further includes anchors 86 (FIGS. 5 and 6) that are formed integrally with the base sheet 46 for projecting downward through the membrane layers 20, 24, the spacer layer 28, and through the rigid backing plate 16 to anchor or secure the integral key structure 40 to the backing plate 16. Alternative techniques may be utilized for anchoring the integral keyswitch structure 40 to the base plate 16.
FIG. 10 illustrates the depression and release force-distance curves for the keyswitches as the keytops are depressed and released. The depression force-distance curve is depicted by the line 90. The release force-distance curve is depicted by the line 92. It should be noted that the force varies non-linearly with respect to distance to provide an initial large force for initial depression and a lower force when contact is made.
It is desirable that the integral key structure 40 be formed of a moldable synthetic resin elastomeric material. Preferably, the elastomeric material is of a rather uniform density in which the webs 54, 60 and 64 are defined by narrowed regions and the upper hinge panel 52 and the lower hinge panel 58 are defined by much thicker regions. According to this construction, the hinge panels 52 and 58 are rather rigid and the webs 54, 60 and 64 are rather flexible and resilient. In this embodiment, the webs preferably have sufficient resiliency to cause the hinge members to move from the contracted orientations to their expanded orientations when the keyboard operator's finger is removed from the keytop 42. Alternatively, the elastomeric material may have a varied density to provide varied flexible resilient properties.
As an alternative construction, the unitary keyswitch structure 40 may be formed of disparate synthetic resin materials to provide the necessary rigidity and resiliency of the hinge members. For example in FIG. 9, the integral key structure 40 is illustrated with the keytop 42, webs 54, 60, 64 and the base sheet 46 formed of one material that has elastomeric properties. The upper hinge panel 52 and the lower hinge panels 58 are formed of a disparate synthetic resin material in a two shot molding operation to provide the desired rigidity in the upper panel 52 and the lower panel 58.
FIGS. 11 and 12 show another keyswitch structure 100 having modified keytop support elements 102 formed of two different types of materials. Support elements 102 preferably include four panel elements 104a, 104b, 104c, and 104d that are arranged in a substantially rectangular configuration (panel element 104d not being depicted in this view). Individual panel elements have an upper hinge panel 106, a lower hinge panel 108, and webs 110, 112, and 114. The operation of the panel elements are essentially the same as panel elements 50a-50d described above.
Intermediate web 112 includes of a joint 116 which integrally interconnects the upper and lower panels 106, 108. Joint 116 is formed of the same material as found in the panels. A synthetic resin material is preferred. Intermediate web 112 also has a resilient material 118 provided at the joint to urge the hinged panels 106 and 108 toward their expanded orientation. When the keytop is depressed as shown in FIG. 12, resilient material 118 is stretched and yields under the force exerted by the keyboard operator. However, when the operator releases the keytop, the resilient material 118 of web 112 elastically drives the panels back to the expanded orientation, thereby returning the keytop to the non-actuating, rest position (FIG. 11 ).
In this example, resilient material 118 spans across joint 116 and is connected to, and lies partially on, interior surfaces 107 and 109 of respective upper panel 106 and lower panel 108. The interior surfaces 107 and 109 can be specially contoured, as shown, to accommodate the resilient material. The resilient material 118 can be formed of rubber, elastomers, or preferably, a composite of rubber and polypropylene. Such as composite is sold under the trademark Sanaprine.
It can be appreciated that the alphanumeric keyboard 10 has many advantages including the ability to be manufactured at a relatively low cost while still providing for a low profile, full travel keyswitch structure that retains and provides for tactile feel and overtravel. It is further recognized that the individual keytop support elements 48, 102 not only maintain the keytop in a linear path without wobble or lateral movement, but additionally provides the actuation structure for actuating the electrical contacts without having to utilize other mechanisms.
FIGS. 13-15 show a computer keyswitch structure 130 having a different panel construction and arrangement which can be incorporated into keyboard 10. Key 130 includes a keytop 132 and a keytop support element 134 which are preferably formed as an integral, unitary structure. Key 130 can be formed integrally with multiple other keys to form a unitary group of keys, similar to the structure discussed above with reference to FIG. 3, or can be constructed as a single key. It is preferred to have the flexibility to form the keys as groups, rows, or individually to satisfy various keyboard configurations. For example, the entire QWERTY key section may be formed of a single unitary structure, the function keys may be formed as a row of integrally connected keys, and the "escape" key may be formed as an individual component.
Keytop support element 134 is designed to buckle as the a downward force is applied to the keytop 132. Keytop support element 134 guides the keytop along a linear path, without appreciable lateral wobble, from a rest, non-actuating position (FIG. 13) through an intermediate position (FIG. 14) to a depressed, actuating position (FIG. 15). Keytop support element 134 comprises multiple, and preferably, four hinge elements or panel assemblies 136a, 136b, 136c, 136d, of which only opposing paired hinge elements 136a and 136c are illustrated for purposes of clarity and explanation. Panel assemblies 136a and 136c interconnect base elements 138a and 138c with keytop 132. Keyswitch structure 130 is connected to base plate 16 via clips 139 which pass through apertures in plate 16 and printed circuit board 18.
Individual hinge elements 136a and 136c include an upper hinge panel 140, a lower hinge panel 142, and an intermediate webbing 144. Upper panel 140 is hingedly coupled to keytop 132 via an upper web 145 for pivotal movement about an upper pivot axis 146 between a normally extended orientation when the keytop 132 is in the rest, non-actuating position of FIG. 13 and a contracted orientation when the keytop 132 is in the depressed actuating position of FIG. 15. Lower panel 142 is hingedly coupled to the base element via a lower web 147 to pivot about a lower pivot axis 148 in coordination with the pivotal movement of the upper hinge panel 140 between the normally expanded orientation and the contracted orientation. Intermediate web 144 interconnects the upper panel 140 and the lower panel 142 to permit pivotal movement about an intermediate axis 150 as the upper and lower panels move between the expanded and contracted orientations.
Upper and lower panels 140, 142 are arranged in a diagonal pattern relative to keytop 132 and base 16. The panels are aligned along panel axes 152 (FIG. 13) between base elements 138a, 138c and keytop 132 which are transverse to the planes defined by the keytop 132 and the base 16. More particularly, panel axes 152 are angled by angles φ relative to a central axis 154, whereby central axis 154 also defines the linear path followed by the keytop 132 during its movement between the non-actuating and depressed actuating switch positions. Preferably, each angle φ is in a range of approximately 25-55 degrees.
Keytop 132 has a top surface 132a and a lower surface 132b, and in combination with keytop support element 134, define an internal cavity 133 immediately below the keytop 132. According to another aspect of this invention, keytop 132 has a deflectable plunger 135 for actuating the keyswitch. Plunger 135 is aligned above an electrical switch 158 of switch membrane 18, wherein the switch 158 has an upper electrical contact 22 and a lower electrical contact 26. The plunger and electrical switch are positioned centrally along axis 154, although other positions are possible.
The panels of key 130 are arranged to fold outwardly, but in such a manner that does not interfere with neighboring keys. As the computer key 130 is depressed from its rest position (FIG. 13) to an intermediate position (FIG. 14), upper panel 140 pivots about axis 146 through an outward path away from central axis 154 (i.e., the left upper panel moves clockwise about axis 146 and the right upper panel moves counterclockwise about axis 146) and lower panel 142 pivots outwardly about axis 148 (i.e., the left lower panel moves counterclockwise about axis 148 and the right lower panel moves clockwise about axis 148). In this intermediate position, the longitudinal profile of the key remains within an acceptable area represented by boundary lines 156 (FIG. 14). Accordingly, even though the panels are configured to buckle outwardly, they do not enter the key space of neighboring keys and thus, do not disrupt or otherwise interfere with
the operation of other keys.
As the computer key is depressed beyond the intermediate position, upper panel 140 continues to pivot outwardly about upper axis 146 (i.e., the left upper panel moves clockwise and the right upper panel moves counterclockwise). However, lower panel 140 stops moving in the outward direction and begins pivoting back inwardly about lower axis 148 (i.e., the left lower panel moves clockwise and the right lower panel moves counterclockwise).
As the key 130 continues downward travel to its fully depressed position in FIG. 15, upper panel 140 and lower panel 142 pivots about their respective axes 146 and 148 until the panels reach the fully buckled, folded, or contracted positions. Also during this time, plunger 135 pushes upper electrical contact 22 into lower electrical contact 26 to actuate the keyswitch. Plunger 135 is preferably formed of a resilient material and deflects or otherwise deforms after engaging and actuating the electrical switch 158. The deformable plunger ensures good electrical contact between contacts 22 and 26 and creates a tactile overtravel feel to the keyboard operator. Plunger 135 can be configured to different lengths and deformable characteristics as desired to control the distance the key is depressed to actuate the switch and the amount of over travel following actuation. The panel assemblies 136 urge the keytop back to the rest position of FIG. 13 when the downward force thereto is removed.
According to another aspect of this invention, keytop support element 134 has a panel stop 160 for holding the upper and lower hinge panels 140, 142 in a selected arrangement when the panels are in their expanded orientations (FIG. 13). Panel stop 160 prevents the panel assemblies 136 from buckling inward beneath the keytop 132 as the keytop is depressed. Panel stop 160 can be shaped in a variety of ways. In this example, panel stop 160 is embodied as an angled projection or flange extending from lower panel 142 inwardly to cavity 133 and toward base 16. Panel stop 160 has a flat surface 162 which abuts against the switch membrane 18. The flange runs longitudinally across at least half of the lower panel. Alternative embodiments of the panel stop include one or more pegs or pins that project inwardly and downward from the lower panel.
Individual panel stops 160 can be sized to create the desired initial force resistance to depression of the keytop. For example, if the panel stop is lengthened, the lower panel 142 is held in a more vertical orientation and the initial force resistance is less. Conversely, if the panel stop is shortened, the lower panel 142 is held in an angled orientation more and aligned with upper panel 140, thereby increasing the initial force resistance.
FIG. 16 illustrates another feature of a keyboard constructed according to this invention which allows the user to adjust the initial force resistance of the computer keys. The keyboard includes a force adjustment means for controllably varying the selected panel arrangement to change the initial force resistance. In the preferred form, force adjustment means is embodied as a subplate 164 movably mounted beneath base plate 16 to be vertically raised and lowered. Subplate 164 has plural members or platforms 166 which project upward through apertures 168 formed in base 16 and switch membrane 18. Apertures 168 are sized larger than platforms 166 to permit the platforms to easily pass therethrough.
As subplate 164 is raised and lowered, the platforms 166 engage the panel stops 160 at different elevations above base 16. This variation causes changes in the arrangement of the upper and lower hinge panels 140 and 142. As the platforms 166 are raised, the force resistance to depression of the keytop is decreased; conversely, as the platforms 166 are lowered, the initial force resistance is increased.
Subplate 164 may be designed to be manually adjusted by the keyboard operator via a lift mechanism (not shown) accessible to the operator. Alternatively, subplate 164 may be designed to be adjusted to several elevations, but is fixed to a selected elevation during manufacturing and prior to shipping.
In the embodiment of FIGS. 13-16, key 130 (including keytop support structure 132 and keytop 134) is formed of a single material. The single material is preferably a unique composite consisting of a resilient substance, polypropylene, and a fibrous substance. This special composite achieves the desired stiffness in the panels and yet provides the required resilient flexing at the webbings. The resilient substance is preferably a rubber or elastomer, or most preferably, a composite of rubber and polypropylene, such as Sanaprine. The fibrous substance is preferably a carbon fiber or glass fiber.
According to this unique formula, the Sanaprine rubber lends return memory force to cause the panel assemblies to spring back to their original rest state after the depression force is removed. Polypropylene affords durability, giving the key a long life cycle. The glass or carbon fibers add stiffness to the panel regions. When the key is first formed, the fibers run throughout the webbings and panels. Because the webbings have relatively small cross-sectional thicknesses in comparison to the thicker panels, fewer fiber strands traverse through the webbings. When the key is first depressed, these few fiber strands bend or break, thereby weakening the webbing areas and reducing the overall force used to depress the keytop. The fibers remain in tact, however, within the thick panels to strengthen and add rigidity to them. Example ratios of the elements contained in the composite are approximately 50% (by volume) of the resilient substance and approximately 50% (by volume) of a blend of the polypropylene and 40% milled fibers.
FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate a computer keyswitch 170 constructed similar to keyswitch 130 of FIGS. 13-16, but being formed of two materials. A first or resilient material 172 is used as the common thread to integrally interconnect the keytop 132 and keytop support means 134. Material 172 defines the intermediate webs between the upper and lower panels as well as the upper and lower webs which interconnect the panel assemblies to the key top and base elements. The first material 172 is preferably Sanaprine rubber. A second or rigid material 174 is then employed to form reinforced hinge panels 140, 142 and the keytop 132. The second material 174 is preferably a composite of polypropylene and fibers (such as carbon and glass fibers).
Key 170 also has a different switch actuation construction. More particularly, keytop 132 has multiple pairs of deflectable plungers 176a/176b and 178a/178b projecting from its bottom surface. Electrical switches 180 of switch membrane 18 are aligned vertically beneath the paired plungers. When key 130 is depressed, plungers 176a/176b and 178a/178b engage and actuate electrical switches 180 and then bend and spread apart in opposing directions as shown to facilitate overtravel. Keytop 132 also has a limiting member 182 that "bottoms out" on the switch membrane 18 to halt downward travel of the keytop 132 after an adequate overtravel distance has been permitted by the deflecting plungers.
FIG. 19 shows a computer keyboard 200 according to another preferred embodiment of this invention. Only twelve keyswitches are illustrated in this figure for discussion purposes. Keyboard 200 includes rigid backing plate 16, switch membrane 18 provided atop the backing plate, a keytop return sheet 202 atop switch membrane 18, multiple rows of individual keytop support means 204, and multiple keytops 206. According to one aspect of this embodiment, keytops 206 are embodied as separate keycaps which are detachably connected to associated keytop support means 204. Alternatively, keytops 206 and keytop support means 204 can be integrally formed as a unitary molded key structure, such as that shown in FIG. 2.
According to another aspect of this embodiment, keytop return sheet 202 is interposed between switch membrane 18 and keytop support means 204. Keytop return sheet 202 defines a plurality of keytop return mechanisms 205 for associated keyswitches for imparting a spring force to bias respective keytops 20 from the depressed actuating position toward the non-actuating position. Preferably, the individual keytop return mechanisms 205 are embodied as leaf springs 208 formed by being patterned in the single sheet, partially stamped or cut therefrom, and molded or bent to the desired spring-actuating shape. The keytop return sheet preferably comprises a material having resilient characteristics, such as a BeCu metal alloy.
The single sheet design is advantageous in two respects. First, it is low cost because it consists only of a single sheet of material. Secondly, it is inexpensive and easy to manufacture because the leaf springs are simply stamped out of the single sheet. Less preferably, separate leaf springs, or other types of springs, can be attached to the keytop return sheet 202.
FIGS. 20-22 illustrate a single keyswitch structure 210 of keyboard 200 of FIG. 19. In the manner described above in previous embodiments, keytop support means 204 is designed to buckle as a downward force is applied to the keycap 206. Keytop support element 204 guides the keycap along a linear path, without appreciable lateral wobble, from a rest, non-actuating position (FIG. 20) through an intermediate position (FIG. 21) to a depressed, actuating position (FIG. 22). Keytop support element 204 comprises the multiple, and preferably, four hinge elements or panel assemblies 136a, 136b, 136c, 136d, of which only opposing paired hinge elements 136a and 136c are illustrated for purposes of clarity and explanation. The construction and function of these panel assemblies are described above with respect to FIGS. 13-15.
Unlike the construction of FIGS. 13-15, however, keytop support element 204 has a keycap subplatform 212 coupled to the upper panels 140 of hinge elements 136a-136d. Keycap subplatform 212 has a central, square-shaped recessed area or mortise 214. Keycap 206 has an upper surface 216 for receiving a finger of a keyboard user, and an underside square-shaped projection or tenon 218. The keycap projection 218 is complementary in size and shape for insertion into subplatform recessed area 214 to form a tenon and mortise joint for detachably connecting keytop 206 to keytop support element 204. Adhesives may also be applied in the tenon and mortise joint to help secure keytop 206 to keytop support element 204.
Leaf spring 208 is aligned in the keyswitch structure to project upwardly from keytop return sheet 202 within the four panel elements of keytop support means 204 toward keytop 206. Leaf spring 208 has an upper end 220 which abuts against a bottom surface of keycap subplatform 212, a lower end 222 adjacent to sheet 202, and a curved, actuating, middle section 224 intermediate of the two ends.
Leaf spring 208 is naturally sprung upwardly to force keycap 206 to the non-actuating rest position of FIG. 20. Upon application of a downward force, the leaf spring is pivoted about its lower end 222 as illustrated in FIGS. 21 and 22. Middle section 224 eventually engages upper membrane layer 20 and forces the layer and electrical contact 22 through the gap provided by spacer layer 28 until upper electrical contact 22 contacts lower electrical contact 26 on lower membrane layer 24 to generate an electric signal. In this manner, the middle section 224 of leaf spring 208 defines an actuating means for actuating the electric switch in membrane 18 as the keytop is depressed.
Following actuation, leaf spring 208 continues to flatten or otherwise yield due to the bowing middle section 224 to permit overtravel of the keytop and thereby provide desired tactile feedback to the user.
Upon release of the keyswitch, leaf spring 208 provides a return force to urge keytop 206 and keytop support means 204 back to their non-actuating, expanded positions. This biasing force can be combined with the inherent return force provided by the resilient webbing at the joint between the upper and lower panels in the panel elements to provide rapid keytop return.
In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific as to methodical features. It is to be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific features described, since the means herein disclosed comprise preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted in accordance with the doctrine of equivalents.
|Cited Patent
|Filing date
|Publication date
|Nov 8, 1960
|Jul 7, 1964
|Mallory Timers Company
|Plunger switch having integral plunger and spring
|Nov 15, 1968
|Jun 1, 1971
|Mechanical Enterprises Inc
|Actuator useable for electric switches and the like
|Jan 4, 1971
|Jun 6, 1972
|Mechanical key actuator including a cantilever beam restoring force means
|Feb 27, 1973
|Aug 13, 1974
|Philips Corp
|Push-button control member with push-through coupling
|Oct 15, 1973
|Mar 11, 1975
|Sits Soc It Telecom Siemens
|Switch pushbutton-type digit keyboard switch with leaf spring contract and actuator biasing means on common conductive frame
|Nov 6, 1973
|Apr 22, 1975
|Us Army
|Flat element spring
|Aug 8, 1974
|Sep 30, 1975
|Amp Inc
|Keyboard assembly with foldable printed circuit matrix switch array, and key actuator locking slide plate
|May 20, 1975
|Sep 21, 1976
|Amp Incorporated
|Keyboard assembly with overlapped flexible printed circuit cable switch
|Jul 30, 1975
|Dec 21, 1976
|Burroughs Corporation
|Low profile tactile feedback keyboard switch assembly
|Sep 24, 1980
|Nov 16, 1982
|Engineering Research Applications, Inc.
|Universal keyboard and method of producing same
|Mar 11, 1981
|Mar 8, 1983
|International Computers Limited
|Electrical devices
|Apr 7, 1983
|Dec 25, 1984
|Microdot Inc.
|Switch assembly
|May 3, 1982
|Jan 1, 1985
|Sun Arrow Koeki Company Ltd.
|Key-top panel and keyboard structure using the panel
|Feb 29, 1984
|Sep 10, 1985
|Plessey Overseas Limited
|Push buttons
|Feb 4, 1985
|May 13, 1986
|Field Frank P
|Merchandise display device
|Feb 1, 1985
|Aug 5, 1986
|Honeywell Inc.
|Elastomeric push button return element for providing enhanced tactile feedback
|Feb 11, 1986
|May 26, 1987
|Nippon Gakki Seizo Kabushiki Kaisha
|Keyboard switch apparatus for electronic musical instrument
|Jun 11, 1986
|Aug 16, 1988
|Hewlett-Packard Company
|Stabilized molded rubber keyboards
|Dec 10, 1987
|Jun 13, 1989
|Key Innovations Limited
|Switches and keyboards
|Jul 15, 1993
|Oct 25, 1994
|Key Tronic Corporation
|Keyboard with full-travel, self-leveling keyswitches
|Jan 27, 1986
|May 12, 1987
|Engineering Research Applications, Inc.
|Molded keyboard and method of fabricating same
|May 6, 1983
|Nov 16, 1983
|Eberhard Burkart
|Actuator for switching devices
|Feb 13, 1987
|Oct 21, 1987
|Chisso Corporation
|Acoustic vibration sheet and polypropylene composition for the same
|Citing Patent
|Filing date
|Publication date
|Sep 15, 1994
|Jul 30, 1996
|Sony Corporation
|Electronic equipments chassis made from bent sheet metal
|Apr 1, 1999
|Feb 29, 2000
|Dresser Industries, Inc.
|Push button switching system and method
|Dec 12, 1997
|May 2, 2000
|Kinoshita; Ryohei
|Keyboard device
|Sep 21, 1999
|Jan 16, 2001
|Simon Richard Daniel
|Collapsible keyboard
|Nov 12, 1998
|Dec 18, 2001
|Think Outside, Inc.
|Collapsible keyboard
|Nov 29, 1999
|May 21, 2002
|Associate Technology Limited
|Keyboard with moveable base plate providing key travel
|Jan 24, 2000
|Jul 2, 2002
|Samsung Electronics, Co., Ltd.
|Object insertion/separation sensing apparatus
|Nov 12, 1998
|May 13, 2003
|Think Outside, Inc.
|System and method for detecting key actuation in a keyboard
|May 16, 2001
|Oct 14, 2003
|Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
|Switch button and method of manufacturing switch button
|Mar 31, 2000
|May 11, 2004
|Think Outside, Inc.
|Foldable keyboard
|Dec 14, 2000
|Aug 24, 2004
|Think Outside, Inc.
|Keyswitch and actuator structure
|Mar 10, 2003
|Sep 28, 2004
|Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
|Membrane switch, key switch using membrane switch, keyboard having key switches, and personal computer having keyboard
|Jun 22, 1999
|Dec 7, 2004
|Samsung Electronics, Co., Ltd.
|Semi-elastic switch covering device for an electrical system having an external control panel and control apparatus for an electronic machine
|Nov 30, 2001
|Jan 4, 2005
|Think Outside, Inc.
|Foldable keyboard
|Nov 30, 2001
|May 17, 2005
|Think Outside, Inc.
|Foldable keyboard
|Mar 5, 2004
|Dec 6, 2005
|Think Outside, Inc.
|Foldable keyboard
|Feb 14, 2003
|Aug 1, 2006
|Think Outside, Inc.
|System and method for detecting key actuation in a keyboard
|Mar 1, 2004
|Mar 20, 2007
|Bsh Bosch Und Siemens Hausgeraete Gmbh
|Electrical kitchen appliance
|Jan 15, 2008
|Apr 20, 2010
|Research In Motion Limited
|Key dome assembly with improved tactile feedback
|May 22, 2007
|Jun 1, 2010
|Darfon Electronics Corp.
|Keyboard with wobble prevention structure
|Jul 31, 2006
|Aug 24, 2010
|Robert Olodort
|Detecting key actuation in a keyboard
|Jul 7, 2010
|Oct 4, 2011
|Wakisoni Investments Pa, L.L.C.
|Detecting key actuation in a keyboard
|Mar 15, 2010
|Jul 3, 2012
|Apple Inc.
|Keys with double-diving-board spring mechanisms
|Jul 2, 2012
|Jan 29, 2013
|Apple Inc.
|Keys with double-diving-board spring mechanisms
|Dec 17, 2012
|Jun 3, 2014
|Google Inc.
|Cantilevered integrated function keys
|Dec 20, 2012
|Aug 19, 2014
|Apple Inc.
|Keys with double-diving-board spring mechanisms
|Oct 21, 2013
|Sep 20, 2016
|Apple Inc.
|Low-travel key mechanisms using butterfly hinges
|Sep 30, 2014
|May 2, 2017
|Apple Inc.
|Keycaps with reduced thickness
|May 19, 2014
|Jul 11, 2017
|Apple Inc.
|Backlit keyboard including reflective component
|Sep 30, 2014
|Jul 11, 2017
|Apple Inc.
|Keycaps having reduced thickness
|Oct 21, 2013
|Jul 18, 2017
|Apple Inc.
|Flexible printed circuit having flex tails upon which keyboard keycaps are coupled
|Mar 17, 2015
|Jul 25, 2017
|Apple Inc.
|Low travel switch assembly
|May 16, 2001
|Dec 6, 2001
|Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
|Switch button and method of manufacturing switch button
|Jan 11, 2001
|Feb 7, 2002
|Darfon Electronics Corp.
|Elastic strip of keyboard and method for producing the same
|Nov 30, 2001
|May 2, 2002
|Robert Olodort
|Foldable keyboard
|Feb 14, 2003
|Jul 3, 2003
|Robert Olodort
|System and method for detecting key actuation in a keyboard
|Mar 10, 2003
|Sep 18, 2003
|Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
|Membrane switch, key switch using membrane switch, keyboard having key switches, and personal computer having keyboard
|May 1, 2003
|Nov 13, 2003
|Yao-Kun Tsai
|Key cap with multiple-layer structure
|Mar 5, 2004
|Sep 2, 2004
|Robert Olodort
|Foldable keyboard
|Mar 5, 2004
|Sep 2, 2004
|Robert Olodort
|Foldable keyboard
|Mar 1, 2004
|Oct 7, 2004
|Marko Areh
|Electrical kitchen appliance
|Jul 31, 2006
|Dec 21, 2006
|Robert Olodort
|System and method for detecting key actuation in a keyboard
|May 22, 2007
|Nov 29, 2007
|Darfon Electronics Corp.
|Keyboard with wobble prevention structure
|Jul 15, 2008
|Jan 22, 2009
|Sony Corporation
|Portable information terminal
|Jan 15, 2008
|Jul 16, 2009
|Chao Chen
|Key dome assembly with improved tactile feedback
|Mar 15, 2010
|Sep 15, 2011
|Mi Zhou
|Keys with double-diving-board spring mechanisms
|Sep 1, 2010
|Mar 1, 2012
|Sunrex Technology Corp.
|Computer keys with inwardly tapered bottom
|Sep 27, 2000
|Apr 5, 2001
|Psion Digital Limited
|Keyboard for an electronic device
|U.S. Classification
|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification
|Apr 14, 1994
Owner name: MICRON SEMICONDUCTOR, INC., IDAHO
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SPENCE, KENNY RAY;REEL/FRAME:006966/0796
Effective date: 19940412
|Jan 2, 1997
Owner name: KEY TRONIC CORPORATION, WASHINGTON
Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT TERMINATION;ASSIGNOR:CIT GROUP/BUSINESS CREDIT, INC.;REEL/FRAME:008290/0482
Effective date: 19961231
Owner name: GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION, ILLINOIS
Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:KEY TRONIC CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:008283/0722
Effective date: 19961231
|Dec 29, 1998
|Maintenance fee reminder mailed
|Jun 6, 1999
|Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees
|Aug 3, 1999
|Expired due to failure to pay maintenance fee
Effective date: 19990606
|Jun 22, 2001
Owner name: GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION, ILLINOIS
Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:KEY TRONIC CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:011923/0323
Effective date: 19961231
|Nov 14, 2001
Owner name: KEY TRONIC CORPORATION, WASHINGTON
Free format text: RELEASE;ASSIGNOR:GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:012302/0259
Effective date: 20010928
|Nov 19, 2001
Owner name: THE CIT GROUP/BUSINESS CREDIT, INC., CALIFORNIA
Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:KEY TRONIC CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:012302/0381
Effective date: 20010822


text:
With 1.7 million freelancers, we'll match you with the perfect talent.
Readying books or articles for publication through thorough proofing, copy editing, and fact-checking is one of my specialties. I have edited nonfiction, novels, catalogs, and academic writing, including textbooks and dissertations over a twelve-year period. I am a writing teacher as well as an editor. My experience in creating large Excel spreadsheets and/or populating them manually or through imported data is extensive. I am new to the site and eager to begin delivering editorial or data entry projects that are error-free and completed...Read More »

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Vibro Concrete Columns
Vibro concrete columns (a driven cast insitu system)
VCC or Vibro Concrete Columns are one of the things that we at Tritech do best.
VCC's can be installed quickly in comparison to other piling methods depending upon depth and they are very good for stabilising the ground in soft conditions. The speedy installation can lead to client benefits in that the programme of works can often be reduced.
VCC is a displacement technique which means that there is no spoil removal necessary.
VCC method
- VCC tube is vibrated into the ground through soft clay
- VCC pentrates through the clays to dense sand and gravels
- The VCC tube is then surged whilst concrete is pumped through the column via the delivery tube forming an expanded base also known as a bulb
- As the VCC tube is extracted, concrete is pumped and monitored under pressure
- Extraction continues until the VCC tube has completed the pile
- Reinforcement is then put in place.


text:
9 3:schedule decoration
From Pnet-Community
[edit] Where in Project.net
Projects > Workplan > Properties > Status Icons and Colors
[edit] Status Icons and Colors
The STATUS ICONS AND COLORS tab lists all the images and the background color that have been defined for each aspect of the task list in the TASK LIST page. The different list of tasks that are considered here can be as under;
- Late Tasks
- Completed Task
- Tasks Coming Due
- Unassigned Tasks
- Task has dependencies on other tasks
- Task has a constraint which prevents its start or finish date from moving freely
- Task is on the critical path
- Task has one or more assignments
- Current date is past the deadline specified for the task
- Task is shared from another project into this project
The image and background color for each of the above list is defined so that the tasks are easily identifiable for quick action whenever required.
[edit] Toolbox
- Blogit - Selecting this allows the user to create a blog entry on Task list Decoration.


text:
Obviously, you didn't buy your 264 unless you wanted to buy long-lasting quality and a trusted brand both rolled up into one car, truck, or SUV. While it's not hard to buy replacement parts for Volvo vehicles, these days the necessity for nothing but the highest quality are required to fix your automobile. Anyone who owns a Volvo knows that when it comes to fixing their vehicle only the most superior replacement parts will do. When your Volvo 264 left the factory, it was destined for a driver who prioritizes Swedish engineering in their automobile.
Heat causes the coolant in your engine to expand, and every liquid-cooled engine handles that in the same way. Your Volvo 264 constantly maintains an operating temperature close to 200-degrees Fahrenheit, so the pressure of the coolant has to be about 15-20psi. That means your Volvo 264 coolant expansion tank should always contain a certain amount of liquid coolant. If you discover that you are losing coolant, then there is likely a crack somewhere in the coolant reservoir.
At Car Parts Discount, we have real customer support agents here with enough expertise to help you purchase the correct Volvo 264 part for your project or repair. Trust in the value of the parts you get from carpartsdiscount.com and save time and money on all your upcoming repairs. When your Volvo requires a top quality replacement Coolant Expansion Recovery Tank, there's no need to trust any store other than the authority, Car Parts Discount. Just choose your year from the list below to find the right Volvo 264 Coolant Expansion Recovery Tank for your 1982, 1981, 1980, 1979, 1978, 1977, 1976 model.


text:
All Android applications categories
BlackBerry Wallpapers and Theme Application
The BlackBerry is a line of wireless handheld devices and services designed and marketed by Research In Motion Limited (RIM) operating as BlackBerry. The first BlackBerry device, an email pager, was released in 1999; the most recent BlackBerry devices, the Z10 and Q10, were announced on January 30, 2013. The user interface varies by model; most feature a physical QWERTY keyboard, while newer generations have relied on a multi-touch screen and virtual keyboard.
This app will add a few search access points on your device. If you do not want to use this new search page, you can either ignore it or delete it. If you do use it, we get a few cents and it will help us a lot to keep developing more apps. If you don't, you can delete it and no harm is done (our app remains the same, no need to uninstall it!). Thank you.
Tags: blackberry hintergrundbilder
from 3 reviews
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text:
News & Politics, Science & Medicine, Natural Sciences, Society & CultureFollow
|Natural Sciences
We're tired of pertinent social and science news being buried by clap trap. Our podcast is here to bring you relevant, under reported current events, as well as in-depth discussions from a scientific, critical, skeptical, and humorous point of view. Derek and Swoopy are your hosts, filling your pod and your brain with skeptical insight and conversation, sometimes heated, on a plethora of topics that are ripe for critical examination. Bringing truth to podcasting, and all who choose to listen. In our travels we will tackle the beasts of pseudoscience; the paranormal, supernatural, ufo / alien encounters, mis-understood history, and overwrought legends - urban or otherwise. Our interview shows feature notable skeptics including; leading astronomy speakers, scientists, philosophy experts, and other scientific, secular, humanist, and skeptical book authors, and critical thinkers.
June 12th, 2005
Episode 13 of 306 episodes
We have a very special guest, Rob Irving, from Circlemakers! Rob joined us to talk about the 'myth' of the crop circle and how he and the team of folks he works with create some of the beautiful and no-so-mysterious circles we see in the wheat.
You'll need to sign in to write a comment.
Welcome to the Brain Training Podcast, the daily audio workout for your head. In this podcast we have two games for you, each with three rounds which get progressively harder. To enjoy the full experience, relax, and avoid distractions whilst you listen.


text:
Not by Romero zombie terms, i mean voodoo style. Like the bug takes over their nervous systems similar to how a voodoo priest would use a neurotoxin to make someone appear dead, therby making them brain damaged and easy to enslave. isnt it the same basic principle?
hmmm that gave me an idea for an enemy type. in a similar way to how there are free drudge, there could be psycho puppets. like the bug application process goes horribly wrong for a few puppets and they start fighting other puppets/aliens/trust agents 28 days later rage style
Just doin mah part brah ;D
as will I shader, as will i
You are not allowed to request a sticky.


text: Been looking at getting a new car later this year / early next year as I've had a tiny Peugeot 107 for about 7 years now which was great for doing a small town commute but now I've moved further away from work and its about 22 miles each way I'm wanting something a bit newer, bigger and more comfortable. Been looking at the A3 2.0 TDI which looks a really nice car with plenty of power, especially the 184ps quattro. But recently seen that Audi have the A3 e-tron coming out later this year and very tempted with that. I commute from Worksop to Sheffield so its country roads, M1 and then tons of traffic into Sheffield city centre, so the etron makes a lot of sense as I could use electric for all the journey aside from the middle stint on the M1. I've read a few reviews on pre-production models that seem glowingly good, anyone have any idea when the real deal will be hitting the forecourts? Also, I've never bought a car new before, what are the lead times like buying an Audi, do you have to put your order in like 3 months in advance?


text:
PRINCETON, N.J. – Shine those dancing shoes!
For the second time in three seasons, the University of Pennsylvania women's basketball team will play in the NCAA Tournament after completing the season sweep of archrival Princeton and claiming the program's fourth Ivy League championship via a 62-60 win at Jadwin Gymnasium.
Penn (24-4, 13-1 Ivy League) will now await the NCAA Selection Show, which will take place Monday night at 7 p.m. on ESPN. Information on Penn's Selection Show Party will be available in the coming days.
In a game befitting of such stakes, the Quakers answered a late Princeton charge with anAnna Rosslayup and foul shot to take a 58-56 lead with 1:45 to play.
With less than 20 seconds to play, Penn forced a jump ball off a defensive stop executed byKasey Chambers who jumped a drive attempt. Princeton (23-5, 12-2) was forced to foul, and Chambers calmly hit both free throws to give Penn a four-point cushion.
The Tigers hit on a second-chance bucket from Michelle Miller with 9.4 seconds to play, but again they were forced to foul Chambers and she again made good on her shots. A Princeton bucket with 0.8 seconds left set the final score.
A determined Penn team fought through early adversity to build a 14-11 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Tigers came out firing on their home court, scoring the game's first two buckets on Alex Wheatley layups. Lauren Whitlach would answer for the Quakers with a three-pointer and then a pair of free throws to give Penn its first lead at 5-4. The lead would change hands twice more before the end of the first quarter, but a 9-2 Penn run to close the first period have Penn a lead it would only lose control of twice – each time answering to retake the lead on the very next possession.
In fact, despite the slim final margin of victory, Penn held the lead for 32:36 in the game. Compared to just 5:39 of time played with the lead by Princeton – and 3:21 of that was racked up by Princeton building a 4-0 lead before fans had finished filing in.
The 9-2 run for the Quakers to close the first quarter started a sequence where the Tigers would go ice cold from the floor. Princeton would go 9:12 of game play without a field goal, and Penn would turn an 8-5 deficit into a 19-14 lead before Princeton's Taylor Williams would score a layup with 5:44 left in the second half.
That Williams bucket spurred the Tigers on a 6-0 run to take a 20-19 lead with 3:09 to play in the second quarter. The Quakers would double up their opponent over the final stretch of the first half, 12-6, to take a 32-26 lead into the break. A Whitlach three pointer and a pair of Anna Ross three-point plays – one conventional followed by a layup and foul with 11 seconds left in the quarter, sent Penn into the break with momentum.
Penn continued to roll out of halftime, extending its lead to nine, 37-28, midway through the third quarter – a lead that would be Penn's largest of the night.
There was no reason to expect the Tigers to wilt on their home floor, but whenever it seemed like Princeton would find some life, the Quakers would shut the door.
First, it was Michelle Nwokedi doing work down low. Just past the midway point of the third period, Princeton had a brief 9-2 run to get back within two. Nwokedi called for the ball in the paint, and went up and under her opponent for layup with 3:04 to play in the third. She would go back to that well two more times before the quarter ended, utilizing the glass on back-to-back trips to make sure Penn exited the third quarter with the same six point lead it entered with.
In the fourth quarter, a shot from Kasey Chambers all but signaled the end for Princeton and had Penn fans knowing that the night was theirs.
With just under six minutes to play, Penn was trapped on the perimeter as time wound down on the shot clock. Chambers picked up her dribble due to the pressure, but leaned to the right and heaved an underhand shot just before the shot clock expired.
If that miracle heave didn't deflate the hopes of the Tigers – and a brief sprint to a one-point lead with 2:01 remaining shows the Tigers did not go quietly – then the and-one from Ross with 1:45 to play and Penn's ice cold veins at the free throw line were the final nails.
For the game, Penn was 16-for-18 from the free throw line. In the fourth quarter, Penn was 8-for-9, including makes on its last eight attempts.
Penn had four players in double figures, led by Ross who had 18 (including 7-for-8 from the free throw line) and Nwokedi who had 17.
Sydney Stipanovich was the lone Penn starter not in double digits in scoring, but was a menace on the defensive end with five blocks and three steals. She had only three rebounds – but each was on the offensive end.
Download: Princeton 2.pdf


text: I believe that Pierre Chang himself is behind the new Dharma Initiative and he was trying to recruit his son, Miles. When Bram and his fellow kidnappers grabbed Miles and threw him into a BLUE VAN, they never threatened him or roughed him up. They promised to let him find out about his father and his powers. How would they know about his father? There was never any definitive proof that Chang was killed during the purge. I believe that he has been hiding and waiting for this time to go back and re-claim the island for the newly reformed DI. Just like the video shown at Comic-Con last summer suggested.


text:
My Name is Deni and my familiar name is Uda Dennie, I am born in small village Surau Pinang, Bukittinggi (West Sumatera) and now living at Batam Island (Kepulauan Riau). I began taking shot using a DSLR in March 2010. As an enthusiast, I followed some friends who had been exposed to photography for years and I learned a lot of things from them. I then explored my photography skills by shooting weddings, documentation and models both for a living and fun.
Everybody needs a hobby. It gives you a chance to do something care-free in your leisure time, helps you relax and get your mind off work. It's pretty much play time for grown ups. In my case, I started taking pictures as a hobby.
When I started this hobby, I just wanted to take good pictures. My passion for macro came up when I saw great macro images in photography websites and I told I had to be able to make my own macro photos. And after trials and errors, lots of hunting and explorations I am now able to produce out fine macro images. Perseverance really paid off.
Thanks for visiting my website. I hope you will check out my photos work, take a look around, and leave a comment on my website.


text:
So a few weeks back, Belsito got to 'sit in' with Chromeo. Well, maybe not not exactly 'sit in' but rather, 'sit with.' Ok, not really 'sit with' either, but more accurately 'sit across from'. And we guess it wasn't exactly Chromeo, but really just Dave 1 (real name David Macklovitch), lead singer and guitarist for electrofunk duo Chromeo. Both were spending time in the Maple Leaf Lounge at Toronto Pearson Airport. Macklovitch was taller than Belsito expected but did in fact enjoy the same soup (editor's note: there were only two soup options in the lounge). We can proudly announce that Belsito neither stalked or creeped out the singer, nor stood beside him at the urinal (like Belsito did with Canada's 16th Prime Minister Joe Clark). Belsito did begin to obsessively hum Chromeo's best-loved tune "Needy Girl" for at least 2 day and a half days after the encounter. For the record, this chance meeting now brings Belsito to only 1 degree of separation from Hall and Oates.Wednesday, February 9th, 2011 by MBM Staff
Welcome to 2011, the Year of the Rabbit. For Chinese Zodiac followers, the rabbit is the fourth animal in the 12-year cycle. According to the Chinese Zodiac, it is expected to be a much needed placid year following the chaotic Year of the Tiger. It is a year to rest and recover, and is defined by good taste and refinement. It is also a year to enjoy luxuries (without becoming too indulgent) and to entertain and enjoy ourselves. Rules and laws should be more lax, and one should not have to work so hard for money. It is a year to not fuss with unpleasant realities and put off disagreeable tasks as long as possible. Then there is the whole fertility, rebirth and pregnancy connotation, but we feel uncomfortable talking about that right now. Let's wait until Easter for that discussion.
It seems the Aztecs had it right when it came to the rabbit. In their mythology, there were four hundred rabbit gods known as Centzon Totochtin who represented fertility, parties and drunkenness. What does this all have to do with Belsito? First, he likes the concept of rabbit gods (only second to the concept of robot gods); he owns a single stuffed toy rabbit named Twinkle (that he has had from birth and will likely have until death); he likes to watch and re-watch Bugs Bunny to obsession; enjoys both the white rabbit and the march hare in Alice's world; once owned a rabbit's foot for which he felt both guilt (that it was not still with the original owner) and pride (for the luck he felt it brought him); he gets misty when reading or watching Watership Down; and envies the rabbit for it's reputation as a notorious nasal breather (something he himself is not). Belsito is also a big sci-fi fan – and interestingly in Japanese and Korean mythology – rabbits are said to live on the moon where they make a popular snack out of rice (thus explaining the markings on the globe's surface). Besides, more than half the world's population of rabbits reside in North America and guess what? So does Belsito.
So the Year of the Rabbit seems promising and to be a much better fit for Belsito than the past several years have been. In fact, with its quiet, carefree and leisurely pace, the Year of the Rabbit should be a good year for most people, unless of course you reside on the Isle of Portland (UK). There, the rabbit is said to be so unlucky that speaking its name can upset older residents. On this Isle, the word "rabbit" is substituted with phrases like "long ears" so as not to have to utter the actual word and set about bad luck.
Despite the unlikely coincidence of Belsito's first schoolyard fight coming about after being called "pointy ears," all things point to 2011 being a much better year than last. Make the most of the 12 months to come and try to avoid rabbit stew if at all possible. Happy New Year! (Bugs Bunny image improperly borrowed from Warner Brothers…this is the year for rules and regulations to be lax right?)Thursday, February 3rd, 2011 by MBM Staff
Keeping in the same vein as our last post, here are Belsito's Top 20 picks for songs of last year. It is just a good excuse for him to spout off about music that he likes and thinks you should like as well. So, here it goes:
20) Fixed – Stars. Montreal band Stars has been a hit or miss enterprise for the past half decade keeping them from the Top 20 album lists. But when they are doing it right, they do it brilliantly. "Fixed" is prime example of the band's simple pop prowess, prompting repeated listens to take in all the syrupy 3 minutes, 31 seconds of sing-along goodness has to offer.
19) Rulers, Ruling All Things – Midlake. Low key, somewhat depressed and dark, Midlake created a perfect mix of King Crimson, Jethro Tull and Radiohead in this understated folk-rock masterpiece. Flutes haven't sounded this fun since the middle ages.
18) Dancing on My Own – Robyn. Ok, so Belsito likes some some pop. He admits it. But it has to be a step above (at least that's how he justifies it to himself). Robyn managed to pull off a straight forward pop song with that 'special something,' raising it far above the average radio hit. This is what made her one of the more unusual choices for alt-rock festivals across the country during the summer of 2010. A pleasure to listen to…without feeling too guilty.
17) Like The Ocean, Like the Innocent Pt. 1 & 2 – The Besnard Lakes. Unusual, spacey, and strangely, very Canadian. This Quebec-based band has one of the most unique sounds of recent years. This may sound odd, but they are like film noir for the ears.
16) Helicopter – Deerhunter. Fun with harpsichords, sweet vocals and deceptively complex pop melodies.
15) Rattling Cage – Forest Swords. Interesting electronics, the occasional vocal squeal and lots of reverb. Rattling Cage is like a song by The XX, coomunicated through a distored Kraftwerk, stripped of any ability to vocally communicate. We don't really know what that means, so you'll have to just listen to it.
14) In the Dirt – S. Carey. Led by Bon Iver drummer, S. Carey picks up from the Sigur Ros school of thinking, with a touch of Red House Painters. Interesting rhythms, silky melodies and a whopping dose of nostalgia and child-like wonder.
13) '81 – Joanna Newsom. Kate Bush-like, harp playing, imp woman creates quirky pop for the thinker. She has the distinction of being a creator of "love it" or "hate it" music. Either you are on board, or not at all. Not much room for any opinion in between. One does not usually sorta like Joanna Newsom. And that's a good thing.
12) I Wanna Go To Marz – John Grant. A song that uses a familiar repetitive piano pattern, a listing of various names of candy in the place of storyline lyrics, and the voice of former Czars front-man, make for an intriguing track that is innocent as it is creepy. Midlake are the backing band for those who are counting.
11) I Can Change – LCD Soundsystem. One part Gary Numan, one part Bronski Beat and a bit of Bowie with electronic drums, this was a track that almost escaped Belsito. Play it once and sing it for the remainder of the day.
10) Bloodbuzz, Ohio – The National. Simply put, The National are great. Just listen to them. Who wouldn't want to be carried away by a swarm of bees?
9) Fresh – Devo. It's Devo and it's fresh. What else should we say? Some bands stay the same, just the way we like them.
8) Next Girl – Black Keys. Sexy white boy blues rock. A bit gritty, a bit retro and a whole lotta fun.
7) Factory – Band of Horses. It's that voice and the sentimentally-orchestrated, Sunday afternoon swagger that give this song it's legs.
6) Go Do – Jonsi. Less atmosphere than Sigur Ros, but all the fairy-dusted magic remains intact. I don't think I ever want to know what these songs are about. I like the place my imagination tucked them away in.
5) Not in Love – Crystal Castles. Proving Belsito's firm belief that Platinum Blonde is in fact very cool. Bedroom techno with The Cure's Robert Smith lending his unique vocal to this lost Canadian classic of the new wave era.
4) Little Lion Man – Mumford and Sons. Powerful, singable and never the least bit boring. Makes you want to run out and start a band, if only we had a banjo. Deserved of repeated plays.
3) Ready to Start – Arcade Fire. The Arcade Fire have created a pump up summer song for the alt-rock sect. The hidden Springsteen-isms of the Arcade Fire make us want to move, make us want to be sad, make us want to have a good time. Oh, those art-school kids….
2) Norway – Beach House. A song that can make you dizzy if you listen too closely. Deceptively simple. There is a little Lindsay Buckingham in the music, a little Mazzy Star in the approach, and a lot of those 'oh so deep', sexy lady vocals. Just plain catchy.
1) Afraid of Everyone – The National. These guys again. Amazing drum riffs, cool back-up vocals and a simple focus of the unique vocal stylings of Matt Berninger. Really, and who isn't afraid of everyone? The song builds and builds and builds until it becomes your favorite track of the year.
Happy hunting. We hope you enjoy.Thursday, January 27th, 2011 by MBM Staff
It is the closing of 2010 and with that end, we must reflect on all that was good during the past year in the world of music. For those who are interested, here is Belsito's Top Ten list of favourite albums of the year with a brief commentary after each: 10) Gaslight Anthem – American Slang. With a pinch of punk ethos, a walloping dose of Bruce Springsteen and his Jersey shore characterizations and enough sing-a-long anthems to keep a summer camp full of children happy, the Gaslight Anthem's latest is another recipe for crossover success; 9) Jonsi – Go. He left a few of the magic spells behind at the Sigur Ros camp, but Jonsi's voice and mystical approach can still give us the shivers; 8) Joanna Newsom – Have One on Me. Harps, pianos, and a sometimes shrill vocal all conjure up the best of early Kate Bush if she were a folkie; 7) Neil Young – Le Noise. Neil always get our vote, but Le Noise whips up a sonic frenzy that only Crazy Horse could muster, only he does it without the band. Strong songs and a sonic lushness help this album not only prevail, but conquer; 6) Beach House – Teen Dream. With an overall 4AD flavour, haunting vocals and dizzying, hypnotic music-scapes, Beach House create a sexy, if not at times, simplistic summertime album; 5) Mumford and Sons – Sigh No More. One of the surprise punches from this year's batch o' newcomers. English folk-rockers take a strong collection of songs with soaring vocals and pumped-up melodies, and deliver one of the year's most memorable albums; 4) Black Keys – Brothers. The Keys fresh approach to off-centre, American blues rock, have brought them to the forefront of the indie music scene and made them a live attraction not to be missed; 3) Arcade Fire – The Suburbs. Sprawling, infectious and brilliant songs that worm into your subconscious, make The Suburbs, one of the year's most anticipated releases, worthy of the hype; 2) Midlake – The Courage of Others. Jazz experimentations, pop sensibilities and folk harmonies spread over a pre-Sabbath canvas from the renaissance court. The love child of Fleetwood Mack and Fairport Convention as birthed in the home of Jethro Tull's Ian Anderson; and the number one album of the year in Belsito's world is: 1) The National – High Violet. Melancholy harmonies, gigantic-yet-somehow-understated choruses, and enough lyrical quirks and ticks to provide one of the catchiest and most pleasantly depressed albums of this year. Runners-up: Crystal Castles – Crystal Castles: Melancholic lo-fi electronica for the bedroom and Accept – Blood of Nations: A strong return to form by German metallers (replete with a new singer who can stand up to Udo – figuratively and literally). Like or hate metal, there's no denying it is exactly what it should be. Happy New Year and happy listening!Wednesday, January 5th, 2011 by MBM Staff
Chris Belsito's much-delayed Revelation Come Late has finally been officially released, just in the nick of time for 2011. The 12-track CD is possibly one of the best and most diverse of this Canadian artist's career. Produced by Miguel Gauthier at Stereo Soul Studios, the album features a wide array of sounds and styles. It features performances by stalwart Belsito players, Craig West, Ed Young, Jay Case, Lindsay Pugh, Frank Deresti, but also a number of new faces including Rachelle Risling, Dan Kreutzweiser, Brian Holmes and Miguel Gauthier. Belsito took a greater role in instrumentation himself, playing piano, the bulk of electric and acoustic guitars, as well as lead and background vocals. The CD is available for download on iTunes (or many of your other favorite download sites) and can be ordered online from IndiePool by clicking here. It is also available by order through HMV, Chapters, CDPlus and many other chains. In addition, if you live in Sault Ste. Marie, it is available at the Rad Zone and Case's Music.Tuesday, December 21st, 2010 by MBM Staff
"Last night, my Facebook newsfeed informed me that 11 of my friends like Chris Belsito, which was helpful, because it made me realize that maybe I would like to delete these 11 people." – Anthony Aiello, some-time Belsito associate who was recently banished to a tower for harming kittens.
"That would be a wise move. Clearly, they have no taste." – Chris BelsitoWednesday, July 21st, 2010 by MBM Staff
Our good friends at Fuzed Notions have recently launched a shiny, brand-spanking new website (check it out: www.fuzednotions.com). As they were the designer of the Belsito's new website, logo and CD cover, they have included a breakdown of the "whys" and "hows" of building a brand for the artist as part of their portfolio. Jessica, Justin and Sue (see them now by clicking here) all played a part in the development and execution and give an interesting look inside the development process. You even get to see a new combination of words used to describe the Belsito look – "Beauti-Grungy". What does that mean, find out by clicking here.Tuesday, July 6th, 2010 by MBM Staff
A Belsito article on the subject of Ronnie James Dio has been dusted off and republished on the Dog Blog – the website of the Prairie Dog magazine. The article was republished after the sad news of the passing of metal legend Ronnie James Dio over the weekend. To read the Belsito-penned article, click here. The artwork of RJD was created by former Prairie Dog art director Nigel Hood and stolen directly from the Dog Blog – so go check them out.Monday, May 17th, 2010 by MBM Staff
"I don't know if you have anything interesting on your band rider or not, but if it were me, I would reqauest to have a picture of a midget puching a cat at every show." – Anthony Aiello, Collector of Calendars and Alleged Feline HaterSaturday, May 8th, 2010 by MBM Staff
"You mail greeting cards to yourself? Tell me there is a good reason for this." – Chris Shamess, Fan of Devil's Claw
"Yeah, they make me feel good when I receive them. Brightens my day." – Chris BelsitoTuesday, April 27th, 2010 by MBM Staff


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What is JotForm?
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At JotForm, we want to make sure that you're getting the online form builder help that you need. Our friendly customer support team is available 24/7.
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is it possible to have a email sent confirming registrationAsked by alawash on November 30, 2015 at 02:34 PM
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JotForm Support
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Black & White Women of the Workplace
By: Taylor Trice
A Divided Workplace
Over the past four decades, the workplace has remained unchanged. It's remained a workplace divided into different clusters of ethnicity and genders. Black women still continuously work harder than white women yet earn lower earnings than white women according to The Atlantic. How is this still a continuous thing considering how many influential black females represent this country? Over those past four decades, Oprah Winfrey has been dubbed the "Queen of All Media" with the highest-rated program of its kind in history. Michelle Obama is the first African-American First Lady of the United States. Ursula Burns is the first African-American woman CEO to run a Fortune 500 company. So many influential black women yet the black female still has to "prove" herself in order to obtain any recognition in this country. So what does it truly mean to be a black woman in the workplace? What does it mean to be a white woman in the workplace?
The White Woman
The average weekly earnings of the full-time white female worker is about $700. (Scroll down for charts.) A white woman's participation rate rounds up at about 57%. No, white women still do not earn as much as white men and are still at the core of the feminist movement. Yet according to www.tolerance.org and the experiences of Donna Lamb, there are quite a few perks of living with white female privilege. Not only are they privileged to experience different things, but they are mainly privileged in what they don't have to experience. For example, as a white woman walking into the workplace there are a few things she doesn't have to worry about. As a white woman, there is never a thought in her mind that her skin color will work against her or that people will perceive her in a different way because of her skin color. When she walks into a job interview, she doesn't have worry about people assuming her background from her skin color. She doesn't have to worry about people "not liking" her unless she does something causing them to be against her. She is free of self expression without having to worry of offending anyone or rising questions from others. She expects nothing less than respect from others. Wherever she goes she expects nothing less than a nice welcome. Other than the one strike that she is a woman, white privilege seems to work to her advantage.
The Black Woman
The average weekly earnings of a full-time black female worker is about $600. A black woman's participation rate rounds up to about 60%. As a black woman, she does not possess the advantages of "racial privilege". Instead she possesses two strikes: she is a woman and she is black. As a black woman, there are a few precautions she must take in to thought before entering the workplace. A study done by ESSENCE and research consultants gathered information about the experiences as a black female in the workplace. Also www.tributetoblackwomen.com observed all the experiences of the black female. First, she must be aware that her skin color may cause the way people perceive the way she acts, where she's from, and her level of responsibility. If she is too "self-guarded" and doesn't engage with coworkers, she is not considered a "team player" and receives the least amount of recognition. If she only engages with coworkers when necessary, she is seen as unfriendly and isolated. If she is too confident, she is seen as conceited. Too much self expression may be seen as offensive if used incorrectly. Any mistakes she makes seriously count against her considering she already has two strikes. As a black female, these precautions added on to her other hard work must be done in order to "prove herself" for recognition.
Take A Look At The Stats
See What It Really Means To Be A Black Woman From Melissa Harris-Perry
Take A Look At Yourself
Take a good look at yourself. Have you ever gone through any experiences like what's been discussed? Do you think your race or gender has anything to do with where you are now? Do you think any of that will have an effect in your future? Do you think in the future maybe the racial/gender impact will be any different?
If you watched the video.....
What do you think it means to be a good citizen of the United States? What acts are required in order to be considered a "good citizen"?
Consider all these questions and answer in the comment section below! Thanks for reading!


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Differences between Partnership Firm and Joint Stock Company
The following are some of the differences between a Partnership firm and Joint Stock Company.
|Point of difference
|Partnership Firm
|Joint Stock Company
|1. Minimum No. of Members
|Minimum number of members is two.
|Minimum number is two in a private company and seven in a public company.
|2. Maximum No. of Members
|Maximum number is 20 in general business and 10 in banking firms.
|Maximum number is 50 in a private company and there is no maximum limit in public company.
|3. Registration
|Registration is not compulsory.
|Registration is compulsory.
|4. Separate Legal Existence
|It has no separate legal existence. Firm and partners are the same.
|It has separate legal existence. It is an artificial person created by law.
|5. Legislation
|It is regulated under the Partnership Act, 1932.
|It is regulated under the Companies Act, 1956.
|6. Capital
|Huge capital cannot be secured.
|There is possibility of securing huge capital.
|7. Liability
|Liability of each partner is unlimited, joint and several.
|Liability of each shareholder is limited.
|8. Transfer of Shares
|Transfer of shares is not possible without the consent of all the partners.
|In case of pubic limited companies shares can be transferred freely.
|9. Management
|Firm is managed by the partners themselves, in general.
|Management will be in the hands of elected directors.
|10. Audit of accounts
|Audit of accounts is not necessary.
|Audit of accounts is compulsory.
|11. Flexibility
|The objects of the firm can be changed easily.
|It is not so easy in case of a company.
|12. Perpetual succession
|It has no continuous existence.
|It has continuous existence.
/* Here you can add custom CSS for the current table */ /* Lean more about CSS: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cascading_Style_Sheets */ /* To prevent the use of styles to other tables use "#supsystic-table-28" as a base selector for example: #supsystic-table-28 { ... } #supsystic-table-28 tbody { ... } #supsystic-table-28 tbody tr { ... } */
The above table shows some of the differences between partnership firm and joint stock company.


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Missy is an incredibly adorable, scruffy Terrier Mix who is sweet and affectionate. Shy at first, she warms up quickly, especially if treats are involved. It turns out Missy loves attention from her people and is so appreciative of the love and kisses you give her. She enjoys being held, being pet, cuddling on the couch, and once in a while will even find her way into your lap. Missy reciprocates your affection by giving some kisses of her own. Being less than a year old, Missy is very playful. Combine that with a terrier's natural curiosity and you get an active dog that is happy to share all the adventures that life has to offer with her people. Missy rides well in the car, does fine on a leash, and loves to go on walks. She has a very cute habit of "walking herself" by walking with her leash in her mouth so she can feel like she is running the show. When she is being walked with other dogs, she'll even take their leashes in her mouth so she can "walk them" as well. Missy likes just about any dog she's ever met, giving kisses, engaging them in playtime and wrestling matches, and of course "walking" them. She would do best in a home with another canine brother or sister so she can watch and learn what it is like to be a happy dog and continue to enjoy life's simple pleasures. Missy is cautious of fast movements and loud noises so she will need a family that is willing to give her the time she needs to feel comfortable and to let her know she is safe. Missy is looking forward to the day she has a family to love and call her very own.
If interested in learning more about Missy, please fill out an application for her today at www.azrescue.org.


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Commentary / World Dec 2, 2013
China girds to open sectors to foreign investors
It appears that China's leaders are cautiously preparing to let foreign investors enter any industry other than those on a "negative list."
Frank Ching is a Hong Kong-based writer who has covered developments in China for several decades. He opened The Wall Street Journal's Bureau in Beijing after the U.S. and China established diplomatic relations in 1979, becoming one of the first American reporters to be based in China since 1949.
For Frank Ching's latest contributions to The Japan Times, see below:
It appears that China's leaders are cautiously preparing to let foreign investors enter any industry other than those on a "negative list."
While car tires and chicken meat get the attention of American trade officials, blatant instances of Chinese censorship have led to dire consequences for the U.S. media sector.
The opposition DPP generally understands the economic realities facing Taiwan, but it is apprehensive of the political perils of a closer trade and services partnership with China.
Some analysts believe that China's turn to the left and its crackdown on democratic ideas are tactical moves that foreshadow the launch of major reforms later this fall.
China has every right to be pleased with the U.S.-Russia agreement on Syria, which has returned the United Nations to center stage.
LDP-Komeito dominance of the Upper House poll signals the return of political stability to Japan ? with a nationalistic flavor ? for the first time in seven years.
The release of information about U.S. surveillance efforts worldwide has led to the depiction of Washington as a hypocrite for berating China over cyber espionage.
The aim of China's questioning Japanese sovereignty over the Ryukyu Islands probably is to weaken Japan's claim to the disputed Senkaku Islands, which China calls the Diaoyus.
With regard to other countries with maritime territorial claims in the South China Sea, China appears to have assumed the attitude that might makes right.
The United Nations warns of the possibility of a halt or reversal of human development progress if action is not taken to protect the environment.