I know what you're thinking...why? I guess I should tell you.
Those two blue dots? They're analog thumb controls, similar to those found on the dual analog controllers for Sony's Playstation. One controls the mouse cursor, the other is for scrolling within documents. (Actually building this would require some method of switching which is which...heck, I'm not ever sure which one I'd use as which.) Each of them, in addition to being a two-dimensional analog controller, is also a button - thus provide complete coverage of the functions you would have with a regular mouse.
Arrow keys? Yes, I've thought about that. Holding the left analog stick down will change the function of the I, J, K, and L keys to be that of the up, left, down, and right arrows. (If you look at them, this doesn't seem like it work properly. It does. Try feeling it out without looking at the keys.) The other "missing" keys - Insert, Delete, Home, End, Page Up, Page Down, Print Screen, Scroll Lock, and Pause/Break - can be recreated by holding down the right analog stick and using the keys 1, 2, 3, Q, W, E, A, S, and D. Also available when holding down the right analog stick will be the keys of the number pad found on the extreme right of the keyboard. (Although if you really use those heavily, I'd think the purchase of one of the available USB-connected "keypads" that contain only that section's keys would be in order.)
That recreates all the keys found on a standard keyboard, plus all the functions found in your typical mouse, and your hands never have to move far to get to anything. (Except, of course, your coffee/Coke/whatever you're drinking that day.)
It also allows complete usability of the computer with the keyboard in your lap, and doesn't put you in an awkward position while doing so like standard 101/104 key keyboards do. If possible, the keyboard should be molded with two indentations underneath for your legs to go in - shallow, so that you're not forced into a particular postion - and possibly a slightly different shape than shown so that you can hold it between your knees if you want.
Questions and comments should be directed here.
And yes, I am aware of the Adesso TrueForm keyboard with touchpad mouse. The touchpad only lets you scroll up and down, and not very easily at that. It's also too wide...It's hard to type comfortably with your keyboard on your lap if your left hand is to the left of your left leg and your right hand is between your legs. (Insert crude masturbation joke here...)
