IBM ThinkPad Butterfly keyboard

. However, as later laptop models featured progressively larger screens, the need for a folding keyboard was eliminated; consequently, no model but the 701 utilized the butterfly keyboard.

The butterfly keyboard is split into two roughly triangular pieces that slide as the laptop's lid is opened or closed. As the lid is opened both pieces slide out to the sides, followed by one piece sliding downward. The two halves mesh like jigsaw puzzle pieces to form a keyboard 29.2 cm (11.5 in) wide which overhangs the sides of the laptop body. Conversely, as the lid is closed one piece slides back, then both slide inward until the keyboard can be covered by the lid. The movement of the keyboard is driven by a cam on the lid's hinge, so the motions of the keyboard parts are always synchronized with the movement of the lid.

Although the laptop did not sell well, the unusual design is being displayed in the design collection of the Museum of Modern Art in Manhattan, New York.

Usage In Film

An IBM Thinkpad 701 is briefly seen being used by James Bond in the film "GoldenEye". It is seen around 51:22 into the film when Bond is being briefed by Q in his laboratory.

One can also be spotted in the movie "Blood Diamond", used by journalist Maddy Bowen (played by Jennifer Connelly).

Images

References

External links

* [http://www-nrg.ee.lbl.gov/leres/butterfly/ Craig's IBM Butterfly Page]
* [http://www.geocities.co.jp/SiliconValley-Cupertino/9946/ThinkPad01.htm The Butterfly (in Japanese)]
* [http://www.zdnet.com.au/news/business/0,39023166,20280272,00.htm ZDNet: Butterfly Notebook to Spread Wings Again]