USB Typewriter

Jack is almost done making a USB Typewriter, which is a hack of an antique manual typewriter that allows it to operate as a computer keyboard. The goals of the project include: - Typewriter emulates a standard HID USB keyboard, and be recognized by any PC or Mac (who cares about linux?) - In addition to letters, numerals, and punctuation marks, the shift key, control key, and spacebar operate correctly. - The typewriter has a calibration mode which allows the user to map typewriter keys to letters/numbers etc. - The project is written for the Arduino Diecimiela, using inexpensive peripheral hardware. - The key-sensing hardware is dead-simple to install and should be adaptable to many typewriters without design changes. - All boards are two layers or less (except the Arduino board) Currently (3/1/10), the typewriter project is almost complete. - Hardware, including sensing strip and USB interface board, have been prototyped using point-to-point wiring. - Hardware+Software prototype completed and operated correctly over Arduino's serial monitor (not USB) - USB functionality now being added - Sensing strip PCBs have been designed but not ordered Still to do: - Apply for patent? - Order sensing strip and USB boards to interface with an Arduino Diecimiela - Complete USB integration - Test USB functionality on multiple platforms