key

Abstract

A key includes a base plate, a keycap, a connecting assembly, and multiple protruding structures. The connecting assembly includes a first connector and a second connector located between the base plate and the keycap. Multiple protruding structures are disposed on the upper surfaces of the first connector and the second connector. When the keycap is pressed to the down position, the multiple protruding structures on the first and second connectors press against the bottom surface of the keycap. The multiple protruding structures push open from the keycap, creating a gap between the keycap and the connecting assembly. This prevents the bottom surface of the keycap from contacting the upper surfaces of the first and second connectors, avoiding impact noise from surface-to-surface contact and thus eliminating noise.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a key, and more particularly to a key that reduces keystroke noise. Background Technology

[0002] Keyboard keys primarily utilize a scissor-switch assembly to connect the keycap to its base plate. Existing scissor-switch assemblies produce noise when the key is pressed, as the upper surface of the scissors impacts the inner side of the key. This noise is particularly noticeable during rapid keystrokes and can disturb others. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One embodiment of the present invention provides a key, including a base plate, a keycap, a connecting assembly, and multiple protruding structures. The keycap is located on the base plate. The connecting assembly includes a first connector and a second connector located between the base plate and the keycap. One end of the first connector is connected to the base plate, and the other end is connected to the keycap. One end of the second connector is connected to the base plate, and the other end is connected to the keycap. Multiple protruding structures are disposed on the upper surface of the first connector and / or on the upper surface of the second connector, with each protruding structure facing the bottom surface of the keycap. When the keycap is pressed to the down position, the bottom surface of the keycap contacts the multiple protruding structures, and the multiple protruding structures push open the keycap, creating a gap between the keycap and the connecting assembly.

[0004] In some embodiments, each protruding structure contacts the bottom surface of the keycap with a point, line, or surface.

[0005] In some embodiments, the multiple protruding structures are arc-shaped structures, conical structures, spherical structures, cylindrical structures, or long rib structures.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first connector includes an inner frame type body, the second connector includes an outer frame type body, and a plurality of protruding structures are respectively disposed on the upper surfaces of a plurality of side arms of the inner frame type body and / or disposed on the upper surfaces of a plurality of side arms of the outer frame type body.

[0007] In some embodiments, when the keycap is pressed to the down position, the first connector and the second connector are arranged laterally and are not parallel.

[0008] In some embodiments, a first upper shaft portion is provided on both sides of the other end of the first connector, and a second upper shaft portion is provided on both sides of the other end of the second connector. The plurality of first upper shaft portions and the plurality of second upper shaft portions are respectively connected to the plurality of pivot holes and the plurality of barbs of the keycap.

[0009] In some embodiments, a plurality of protruding structures are respectively disposed on the upper surface of the first connector of the adjacent first upper shaft portion and / or on the upper surface of the second connector of the adjacent second upper shaft portion.

[0010] In some embodiments, a protruding structure is disposed at the other end of the first connector, and the center point of the protruding structure and the center point of the first upper shaft portion are either the same center point or different center points.

[0011] In some embodiments, the protruding structure is disposed at the other end of the second connector, and the center point of the protruding structure and the center point of the second upper shaft are either the same center point or different center points.

[0012] In some embodiments, when the keycap is in the top position, the bottom surface of the keycap contacts a plurality of protruding structures, and the contact between the plurality of protruding structures and the keycap ensures that there are no gaps at the connection between the keycap and the plurality of protruding structures.

[0013] In some embodiments, as the keycap moves from the top position to the bottom position, the bottom surface of the keycap continuously contacts the arc-shaped structural surface of the multiple protruding structures.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, when the keycap is pressed to the down position, multiple protruding structures on the first and second connectors press against the bottom surface of the keycap. These protruding structures create a gap between the keycap and the connecting components, preventing the bottom surface of the keycap from contacting the upper surfaces of the first and second connectors, thus avoiding impact noise from surface-to-surface contact and eliminating noise. Furthermore, when the keycap is pressed to the top position, the bottom surface of the keycap contacts the multiple protruding structures, eliminating gaps at the connection between the keycap and the protruding structures, thereby eliminating noise.

[0015] The following detailed description of the features and advantages of the present invention in the embodiments is sufficient to enable any person skilled in the art to understand the technical content of the present invention and implement it accordingly. Based on the content disclosed in this specification, the scope of the patent application and the drawings, any person skilled in the art can easily understand the relevant objectives and advantages of the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 A frontal exploded view of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] Figure 2 An exploded view of the back side of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 3A A schematic diagram of the appearance when pressed according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 3B A schematic diagram of the appearance of the present invention when not pressed according to an embodiment;

[0020] Figure 4 A top view of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 5A for Figure 4 A side view cross-sectional diagram of part 5-5 when pressed;

[0022] Figure 5B for Figure 4 A side view of section 5-5 when not pressed;

[0023] Figure 6A for Figure 4 A side view cross-sectional diagram of part 6-6 when pressed;

[0024] Figure 6B for Figure 4 A side view of section 6-6 when not pressed.

[0025] Figure 7A A partial side cross-sectional view of the first upper shaft portion of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 7B A partial side cross-sectional view of the second upper shaft portion of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 8A A partial side cross-sectional view of the first upper shaft portion of another embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 8B A partial side cross-sectional view of the second upper shaft portion of another embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 9A A schematic diagram of the appearance of an embodiment of the protruding structure on the first connector of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 9B A schematic diagram of the appearance of a second embodiment of the protruding structure on the first connector of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 9C A schematic diagram of the external appearance of embodiment three of the protruding structure on the first connector of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 9D A schematic diagram of the external appearance of embodiment four of the protruding structure on the first connector of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 10A A schematic diagram of the appearance of an embodiment of the protruding structure on the second connector of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 10B A schematic diagram of the appearance of the second embodiment of the protruding structure on the second connector of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 10C A schematic diagram of the external appearance of embodiment three of the protruding structure on the second connector of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 10D A schematic diagram of the external appearance of embodiment four of the protruding structure on the second connector of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 11A A schematic diagram of the external appearance of one embodiment of the prominent structure of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 11B A schematic diagram of the external appearance of the second embodiment of the prominent structural feature of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 11C A schematic diagram of the external appearance of embodiment three of the prominent structural features of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 11D A schematic diagram of the external appearance of embodiment four of the prominent structural features of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 11E A schematic diagram of the appearance of embodiment five of the prominent structural features of the present invention.

[0042] [Symbol Explanation]

[0043] 100: Keypad

[0044] 1: Base plate

[0045] 113: hook part

[0046] 123: hook part

[0047] 2: Keycaps

[0048] 2a: Bottom surface

[0049] 211: Pivot

[0050] 221: Backstab

[0051] 3: Connecting components

[0052] 31: First connector

[0053] 31a: Upper surface

[0054] 31b: One end

[0055] 31c: The other end

[0056] 310: Inner frame body

[0057] 311: First upper shaft section

[0058] 312: Side Arm

[0059] 313: First lower shaft section

[0060] 32: Second connector

[0061] 32a: Upper surface

[0062] 32b: One end

[0063] 32c: The other end

[0064] 320: Outer frame type body

[0065] 321: Second upper shaft section

[0066] 322: Side Arm

[0067] 323: Second lower shaft section

[0068] 4: Emphasize the structure

[0069] 41: Arc-shaped structure

[0070] 42: Conical structure

[0071] 43: Sphere Structure

[0072] 44: Cylindrical structure

[0073] 45: Long rib structure

[0074] D1 / D2: Gap

[0075] P1: Press-down position

[0076] P2: Top position

[0077] O1 / O2: Center point Detailed Implementation

[0078] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is an example of a button. Figure 1 This is a frontal exploded view diagram. Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the back. In this embodiment, the button 100 includes a base plate 1, a keycap 2, a connecting component 3, and multiple protruding structures 4.

[0079] Reference Figures 1 to 3A , Figure 3AThis is a schematic diagram showing the appearance when pressed. In this embodiment, the base plate 1 supports the keycap 2, the connecting assembly 3, or other components (e.g., elastomers such as rubber domes, metal domes, or springs, not shown). The keycap 2 is positioned above the base plate 1 and is mounted on the base plate 1 via the connecting assembly 3. More specifically, the base plate 1 may consist of a bottom layer and a circuit layer. The circuit layer has a conductive portion to allow the keycap 2 to conduct electricity after being pressed, thereby converting the action of pressing the keycap 2 into a signal input. The connecting assembly 3 is movably connected between the base plate 1 and the keycap 2 to assist the keycap 2 in reciprocating displacement relative to the base plate 1. When a hand presses the keycap 2, the keycap 2 can move towards the base plate 1. Conversely, the keycap 2 can return to its initial position via the elastomer (not shown). The elastomer stores elastic force due to deformation under pressure when the keycap 2 is pressed, and pushes the keycap 2 back after the force is released.

[0080] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 More specifically, the connecting assembly 3 may include a first connecting member 31 and a second connecting member 32 pivotally connected to each other. The first connecting member 31 has a through hole for receiving an elastomer (not shown), while the second connecting member 32 has a hollow area for the first connecting member 31 to be located within it. More specifically, both the first connecting member 31 and the second connecting member 32 are rectangular frames. Here, the first connecting member 31 includes an inner frame-type body 310, and the second connecting member 32 includes an outer frame-type body 320 located around the inner frame-type body 310.

[0081] Please refer to this again. Figure 3AMore specifically, the inner frame body 310 has side arms 312 formed around its perimeter, and the outer frame body 320 has side arms 322 formed around its perimeter. Multiple protruding structures 4 are respectively disposed on the upper surfaces 31a of both sides of one side arm 312 of the inner frame body 310 and on the upper surfaces 32a of both sides of one side arm 322 of the outer frame body 320. That is, two protruding structures 4 are disposed on each side arm 312, 322. However, this is not a limitation; in some embodiments, one protruding structure 4 may be disposed on each side arm 312, 322. More specifically, multiple protruding structures 4 are respectively disposed on the upper surfaces 31a of the first connecting members 31 of adjacent first upper shaft portions 311 and / or on the upper surfaces 32a of the second connecting members 32 of adjacent second upper shaft portions 321. In other words, two protruding structures 4 are respectively disposed on both sides of a side arm 312 and adjacent to the first upper shaft portion 311, and two protruding structures 4 are respectively disposed on both sides of a side arm 322 and adjacent to the second upper shaft portion 321, but not limited thereto. More specifically, multiple protruding structures 4 are disposed on the first connector 31 and adjacent to the inner side of the two sides of the first upper shaft portion 311. Among them, the first upper shaft portion 311 is located at the corner of the first connector 31, corresponding to the adjacent corner of the keycap 2 above. When the corner of the keycap 2 is pressed to test, the keycap 2 reaches the pressed position P1, and the outer periphery of the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts multiple protruding structures 4. The multiple protruding structures 4 push open the keycap 2, so that a gap D1 / D2 is formed between the keycap 2 and the connecting assembly 3 (e.g., Figure 7A , Figure 7B (As shown).

[0082] Next, please refer to Figures 1 to 5B , Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram of the appearance when not pressed. Figure 4 This is a top-down view. Figure 5A for Figure 4 A side cross-sectional view of part 5-5 when pressed. Figure 5B for Figure 4A side cross-sectional view of part 5-5 when not pressed. In this embodiment, the connecting component 3 includes a first connector 31 and a second connector 32, which are located between the base plate 1 and the keycap 2. One end 31b of the first connector 31 is connected to the base plate 1, and the other end 31c of the first connector 31 is connected to the keycap 2. One end 32b of the second connector 32 is connected to the base plate 1, and the other end 32c of the second connector 32 is connected to the keycap 2. Multiple protruding structures 4 are respectively disposed on the upper surface 31a of the first connector 31 and the upper surface 32a of the second connector 32. That is, multiple protruding structures 4 are disposed on both the first connector 31 and the second connector 32 (corresponding to the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2), but this is not a limitation. In some embodiments, the multiple protruding structures 4 may be disposed on the upper surface 31a of the first connector 31 or the upper surface 32a of the second connector 32. Each of the protruding structures 4 faces the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2.

[0083] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 5B and Figure 6B More specifically, the inner frame body 310 and the outer frame body 320 are pivotally connected to each other in an X-shaped (or scissor-shaped) connecting component 3, but this is not a limitation. In practical applications, the connecting component 3 can also be replaced with other structures with similar functions (i.e., driving the keycap 2 to rise and fall relative to the base plate 1), such as a V-shaped or A-shaped linkage structure. More specifically, one end 31b of the first connector 31 is provided with a first lower shaft portion 313, and the other end 31c of the first connector 31 is provided with a first upper shaft portion 311, while one end 32b of the second connector 32 is provided with a second lower shaft portion 323, and the other end 32c of the second connector 32 is provided with a second upper shaft portion 321. The first lower shaft portion 313 of the first connector 31 and the second lower shaft portion 323 of the second connector 32 are assembled to a plurality of hook portions 113 and 123 provided on the base plate 1. More specifically, the first upper shaft portion 311 of the first connector 31 and the second upper shaft portion 321 of the second connector 32 are respectively assembled to the pivot hole 211 and the barb 221 provided on the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2. Here, the first upper shaft portion 311 and the pivot hole 211 are pivotally connected to form the fixed side of the keycap, while the second upper shaft portion 321 and the barb 221 are loosely fitted and limited to form the sliding side of the keycap. This allows the connecting assembly 3 to be movably connected between the base plate 1 and the keycap 2.

[0084] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 7A and Figure 7BMore specifically, the first connector 31 has a groove formed on its side, and a first upper shaft portion 311 of a transverse shaft is formed in the groove. The shaft has a circular cross-section but has beveled surfaces on both sides. The second upper shaft portion 321 is a protrusion set on the outer side of the second connector 32. The protrusion has a transverse trapezoidal cross-section and the upper and lower opposite sides are not parallel (the lower surface is flat and the upper surface is beveled).

[0085] Reference Figures 1 to 7B , Figure 6A for Figure 4 A side cross-sectional view of part 6-6 when pressed. Figure 6B for Figure 4 A side cross-sectional view of section 6-6 when not pressed. Figure 7A This is a partial side cross-sectional view of the first upper shaft portion of an embodiment. Figure 7B A partial side cross-sectional view of the second upper shaft portion of an embodiment. More specifically, when the keycap 2 is pressed to the lowered position P1, i.e., when the keycap 2 is fully pressed to its lowest point, an elastic body (not shown) is pressed into the center of the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2. The outer periphery of the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts multiple protruding structures 4. The multiple protruding structures 4 push open the keycap 2, creating a gap D1 / D2 between the keycap 2 and the connecting assembly 3 (e.g., ...). Figure 7A , Figure 7B (As shown).

[0086] More specifically, when the keycap 2 is pressed to the down position P1, the first connector 31 and the second connector 32 are arranged laterally and are not parallel. Furthermore, the gap D2 formed by the protruding structure 4 on the second connector 32 pushing open the keycap 2 is greater than the gap D1 formed by the protruding structure 4 on the first connector 31 pushing open the keycap 2. The thickness of the protruding structure 4 on the second connector 32 is greater than the thickness of the protruding structure 4 on the first connector 31, but this is not a limitation. In some embodiments, the thickness of the protruding structure 4 on the second connector 32 may be equal to or less than the thickness of the protruding structure 4 on the first connector 31.

[0087] In other words, the inner surface of the keycap 2 contacts the protrusions (surface contact points) on the upper surface 31a of the first connector 31 and the protrusions (surface contact points) on the upper surface 32a of the second connector 32. Specifically, the various structures of the keycap 100 are designed with tolerances and a loose fit, resulting in slight gaps between the structures after assembly. This can cause noise when the keycap 100 is pressed. However, through the design of this embodiment, when the keycap 2 is pressed, it directly contacts the protruding structures 4 on the upper surfaces 31a of the first connector 31 and 32a of the second connector 32, thereby eliminating minor noise.

[0088] In other words, when the keycap 2 is pressed down to its bottom dead center (compressing the elastomer (not shown) to a fixed position), the multiple protruding structures 4 on the first connector 31 and the second connector 32 press against the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2. The first connector 31 and the second connector 32 are not parallel. Therefore, the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 cannot touch the upper surface 31a (face contact surface) of the first connector 31 and the upper surface 32a (face contact surface) of the second connector 32, and thus, no knocking sound is produced.

[0089] In addition, by varying the thickness or position of multiple protruding structures 4, or by varying the pivot position of the connecting component 3 with the keycap 2 and the base plate 1, the first connector 31 and the second connector 32 can be arranged laterally and form a non-parallel state when the keycap 2 is pressed to the pressing position P1.

[0090] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 7A and Figure 7B In this embodiment, the protruding structure 4 is disposed at the other end 31c of the first connector 31. The center point O1 of the protruding structure 4 and the center point O1 of the first upper shaft portion 311 are the same, but this is not a limitation. (Refer to...) Figure 8A and Figure 8B , Figure 8A This is a partial side cross-sectional view of the first upper shaft portion 311 in another embodiment. Figure 8B This is a partial side cross-sectional view of the second upper shaft portion 321 in another embodiment. In some embodiments, the center point O2 of the protruding structure 4 and the center point O1 of the first upper shaft portion 311 may be different. In this embodiment, the center point O1 of the protruding structure 4 and the center point O1 of the first upper shaft portion 311 are the same, wherein the keycap 2 is pivotally connected to the first upper shaft portion 311. Due to the design of the same center point, when the keycap 2 moves from the top position P2 to the bottom position P1, or from the bottom position P1 to the top position P2, the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 moves along the surface of the arc-shaped structure 41 of the multiple protruding structures 4, and the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 will continuously contact the surface of the arc-shaped structure 41 of the multiple protruding structures 4. More specifically, the protruding structure 4 is located at the other end 32c of the second connector 32, and the center point O1 of the protruding structure 4 and the center point O1 of the second upper shaft portion 321 are the same, but this is not a limitation. Reference Figure 8A As shown in Figure 8B, in some examples, the center point O2 of the prominent structure 4 and the center point O1 of the second upper shaft 321 are set to different center points.

[0091] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6A and Figure 6B , Figure 7A and Figure 7B In this embodiment, when the keycap 2 returns to its top position P2, the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts the multiple protruding structures 4, ensuring a gap-free connection between the keycap 2 and the multiple protruding structures 4. If a gap exists, pressing the keycap 2 will generate noise. In other words, when the keycap 100 structure reaches its top dead center, the connection between the keycap 2 and the multiple protruding structures 4 is in tight contact. The protruding structures 4 create a slight interference fit through contact with the keycap 2, preventing impact sounds and eliminating noise.

[0092] Reference Figure 9A , Figure 9B , Figure 9C and Figure 9D , Figure 9A This is a schematic diagram of the appearance of an embodiment of the protruding structure on the first connector. Figure 9B This is a schematic diagram of the appearance of the second embodiment of the protruding structure on the first connector. Figure 9C This is a schematic diagram of the appearance of the protruding structure on the first connector, embodiment three. Figure 9D This is a schematic diagram of the appearance of embodiment four of the protruding structure on the first connector. In some embodiments, the protruding structure 4 can be provided at any position on the upper surface 31a of the side arm 312 of the first connector 31, that is, multiple protruding structures 4 can be provided at any position on the upper surface 31a of the multiple side arms 312 of the inner frame body 310. One or more protruding structures 4 can be provided on each side arm 312.

[0093] Reference Figure 9A Multiple protruding structures 4 are located at the center of the left and right side arms 312 of the first connector 31. When the keycap 2 is pressed to near the down position P1, the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts the multiple protruding structures 4. The multiple protruding structures 4 on each side arm 312 elastically hold the keycap 2 and push it open, forming a gap D1 / D2 between the keycap 2 and the connecting assembly 3 (e.g., Figure 7A , Figure 7B (As shown).

[0094] Reference Figure 9BMultiple protruding structures 4 are positioned at the center of the front and rear side arms 312 (one long and one short side arms) of the first connector 31. The center point O1 of the protruding structure 4 on the long side arm 312 is the same as the center point O1 of the first upper shaft portion 311. When the keycap 2 moves from the top position P2 to the bottom position P1, or from the bottom position P1 to the top position P2, the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 moves along the surface of the arc-shaped structure 41 of the multiple protruding structures 4, and the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 continuously contacts the surface of the arc-shaped structure 41 of the multiple protruding structures 4. In addition, when the keycap 2 is pressed to the fixed position of the bottom position P1, the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts the protruding structure 4 on the short side arm 312. The structural characteristics of each side arm 312 allow the multiple protruding structures 4 at the center of each side arm 312 to elastically hold the keycap 2, opening it to form a gap D1 / D2 between the keycap 2 and the connecting assembly 3 (e.g., Figure 7A , Figure 7B (As shown).

[0095] Reference Figure 9C Multiple protruding structures 4 are disposed on the first connector 31 and adjacent to the inner side of the first lower shaft portions 313 on both sides. The first lower shaft portions 313 are located at the corners of the first connector 31, corresponding to the adjacent corners of the keycap 2 above. When the corners of the keycap 2 are pressed, and when the keycap 2 is pressed to the fixed position P1, the outer periphery of the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts the multiple protruding structures 4. The multiple protruding structures 4 push open the keycap 2, forming a gap D1 / D2 between the keycap 2 and the connecting assembly 3 (e.g., ...). Figure 7A , Figure 7B (As shown).

[0096] Reference Figure 9D Multiple protruding structures 4 are disposed on the first connector 31 and adjacent to the outer sides of the first upper shaft portions 311 on both sides. The first upper shaft portions 311 are located at the corners of the first connector 31, corresponding to the adjacent corners of the keycap 2 above. When the corners of the keycap 2 are pressed, and when the keycap 2 is pressed to the down position P1, the outer periphery of the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts the multiple protruding structures 4. The multiple protruding structures 4 push open the keycap 2, forming a gap D1 / D2 between the keycap 2 and the connecting assembly 3 (e.g., ...). Figure 7A , Figure 7B (As shown). Additionally, when the keycap 2 moves from the top position P2 to the bottom position P1, or from the bottom position P1 to the top position P2, the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 moves along the surface of the arc-shaped structure 41 of the multiple protruding structures 4. The bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 continuously contacts the surface of the arc-shaped structure 41 of the multiple protruding structures 4, opening the keycap 2 and creating a gap D1 / D2 between the keycap 2 and the connecting assembly 3 (as shown). Figure 7A , Figure 7B (As shown).

[0097] Reference Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 10C and Figure 10D , Figure 10A This is a schematic diagram of the appearance of an embodiment of the protruding structure on the second connector. Figure 10B This is a schematic diagram of the appearance of the protruding structure on the second connector, embodiment two. Figure 10C This is a schematic diagram of the appearance of the protruding structure on the second connector, embodiment three. Figure 10D This is a schematic diagram of the appearance of embodiment four of the protruding structure on the second connector. In some embodiments, the protruding structure 4 can be provided at any position on the upper surface 32a of the side arm 322 of the second connector 32, that is, multiple protruding structures 4 can be provided on the upper surface 32a of multiple side arms 322 of the outer frame body 320. One or more protruding structures 4 can be provided on each side arm 322.

[0098] Reference Figure 10A Multiple protruding structures 4 are located at adjacent central positions on the left and right sides of the second connector 32. When the keycap 2 is pressed to near the downpress position P1, the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts the multiple protruding structures 4. The structural characteristics of each side arm 322 allow the multiple protruding structures 4 at approximately the center of each side arm 322 to elastically abut against the keycap 2, pushing it open to create a gap D1 / D2 between the keycap 2 and the connecting assembly 3 (e.g., ...). Figure 7A , Figure 7B (As shown).

[0099] Reference Figure 10B Multiple protruding structures 4 are positioned at the center of the front and rear side arms 322 (one long and one short) of the second connector 32. The center point O1 of the protruding structure 4 on the short side arm 322 is the same as the center point O1 of the second upper shaft portion 321. When the keycap 2 moves from the top position P2 to the bottom position P1, or from the bottom position P1 to the top position P2, the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 moves along the surface of the arc-shaped structure 41 of the multiple protruding structures 4, and the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 continuously contacts the surface of the arc-shaped structure 41 of the multiple protruding structures 4. In addition, when the keycap 2 is pressed to the fixed position of the bottom position P1, the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts the protruding structure 4 on the long side arm 322. The multiple protruding structures 4 on each side arm 322 elastically abut against the keycap 2, opening it to form a gap D1 / D2 between the keycap 2 and the connecting assembly 3 (e.g., Figure 7A , Figure 7B (As shown).

[0100] Reference Figure 10CMultiple protruding structures 4 are disposed on the second connector 32 and adjacent to the inner side of the second lower shaft portions 323 on both sides. The second lower shaft portions 323 are located at the corners of the second connector 32, corresponding to the adjacent corners of the keycap 2 above. When the corner of the keycap 2 is pressed, and when the keycap 2 is pressed to the fixed position P1, the outer periphery of the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts the multiple protruding structures 4. The multiple protruding structures 4 push open the keycap 2, forming a gap D1 / D2 between the keycap 2 and the connecting assembly 3 (e.g., ...). Figure 7A , Figure 7B (As shown).

[0101] Reference Figure 10D Multiple protruding structures 4 are disposed on the second connector 32 and adjacent to the outer sides of the second upper shaft portions 321 on both sides. The second upper shaft portions 321 are located at the corners of the second connector 32, corresponding to the adjacent corners of the keycap 2 above. When the corners of the keycap 2 are pressed, and when the keycap 2 is pressed to the down position P1, the outer periphery of the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts the multiple protruding structures 4. The multiple protruding structures 4 push open the keycap 2, forming a gap D1 / D2 between the keycap 2 and the connecting assembly 3 (e.g., ...). Figure 7A , Figure 7B (As shown). Additionally, when the keycap 2 moves from the top position P2 to the bottom position P1, or from the bottom position P1 to the top position P2, the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 moves along the surface of the arc-shaped structure 41 of the multiple protruding structures 4. The bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 continuously contacts the surface of the arc-shaped structure 41 of the multiple protruding structures 4, opening the keycap 2 and creating a gap D1 / D2 between the keycap 2 and the connecting assembly 3 (as shown). Figure 7A , Figure 7B (As shown).

[0102] Refer to 9A to Figure 10D In some embodiments, multiple protruding structures 4 may be simultaneously disposed on the upper surface 32a of multiple side arms 322 of the outer frame body 320 and on the upper surface 31a of multiple side arms 312 of the inner frame body 310.

[0103] Reference Figures 11A to 11C , Figure 11A To highlight the appearance of the first embodiment of structure 4, Figure 11B To highlight the appearance of the second embodiment of structure 4, Figure 11CThis is a schematic diagram highlighting the appearance of embodiment 3 of the protruding structure 4. In this embodiment, each protruding structure 4 is illustrated using an arc-shaped structure 41 as an example, but it is not limited to this. In some embodiments, each protruding structure 4 may be a conical structure 42 or a spherical structure 43 (with a portion of the spherical structure 43 exposed on the upper surface 31a or 32a of the connecting component 3). The protruding structure 4 of the arc-shaped structure 41, conical structure 42, or spherical structure 43 makes point contact with the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2, but this is not a limitation. The bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts the arc-shaped structure 41, conical structure 42, or spherical structure 43 (surface contact point) on the upper surface 31a of the first connecting member 31 and the arc-shaped structure 41, conical structure 42, or spherical structure 43 (surface contact point) on the upper surface 32a of the second connecting member 32, thereby eliminating noise.

[0104] Reference Figure 11D , Figure 11D To highlight the appearance of embodiment four of structure 4, in some embodiments, each protruding structure 4 may be a cylindrical structure 44. The protruding structure 44 of the cylindrical structure 44 does not make point contact with the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2, but rather makes surface contact with the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2, and is not limited to this. The bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts the cylindrical structure 44 (surface contact surface) of the upper surface 31a of the first connector 31 and the cylindrical structure 44 (surface contact surface) of the upper surface 32a of the second connector 32, thereby eliminating noise.

[0105] Reference Figure 11E , Figure 11E To highlight the appearance of embodiment 5 of structure 4, in some embodiments, each protruding structure 4 may be a long rib structure 45. The protruding structure 4 of the long rib structure 45 does not contact the bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 with a surface, but rather with a line. The bottom surface 2a of the keycap 2 contacts the long rib structure 45 (surface contact line) of the upper surface 31a of the first connector 31 and the long rib structure 45 (surface contact line) of the upper surface 32a of the second connector 32, thereby eliminating noise.

[0106] In this embodiment, each protruding structure 4 and the connecting component 3 are integrally formed, but this is not a limitation. In some examples, the protruding structure 4 can be machined and coated on the connecting component 3, or the protruding structure 4 can be combined with the connecting component 3 through processing and assembly.

[0107] In one embodiment of the present invention, when the keycap is pressed to the down position, multiple protruding structures on the first and second connectors press against the bottom surface of the keycap. These protruding structures create a gap between the keycap and the connecting components, preventing the bottom surface of the keycap from contacting the upper surfaces of the first and second connectors, thus avoiding impact noise from surface-to-surface contact and eliminating noise. Furthermore, when the keycap is pressed to the top position, the bottom surface of the keycap contacts the multiple protruding structures, eliminating gaps at the connection between the keycap and the protruding structures, thereby eliminating noise.

[0108] The above detailed description fully demonstrates the progressiveness of this invention in terms of its purpose and effectiveness, its significant industrial applicability, and its complete compliance with patent requirements; therefore, this application is filed in accordance with the law. However, the above are merely preferred embodiments of this invention and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this invention. All equivalent variations and modifications made within the scope of this patent should fall within the scope of this patent.

Claims

1. A key, characterized in that include: One base plate; One keycap is located on this base plate; A connecting assembly includes a first connector and a second connector located between the base plate and the keycap. One end of the first connector is connected to the base plate and the other end is connected to the keycap. One end of the second connector is connected to the base plate and the other end is connected to the keycap. The first connector is connected to a first upper shaft portion on each side of the keycap, and the second connector is connected to a second upper shaft portion on each side of the keycap. The first upper shaft portion and the second upper shaft portion are respectively connected to a plurality of pivot holes and a plurality of barbs of the keycap. as well as Multiple protruding structures are disposed on the upper surface of the first connector adjacent to the first upper shaft portion and / or on the upper surface of the second connector adjacent to the second upper shaft portion, with each protruding structure facing the bottom surface of the keycap; The bottom surface of the keycap contacts the plurality of protruding structures. When the keycap reaches an upper position, the plurality of protruding structures contact the keycap, so that there is no gap at the connection between the keycap and the plurality of protruding structures. When the keycap is pressed to the lower press position, the bottom surface of the keycap contacts the plurality of protruding structures, and the plurality of protruding structures push open the keycap to form a gap between the keycap and the connecting assembly. As the keycap moves from the top position to the bottom position, the bottom surface of the keycap continuously contacts the arc-shaped surface of the plurality of protruding structures.

2. The key of claim 1, wherein Each of the protruding structures contacts the bottom surface of the keycap by a point, line, or surface.

3. The key of claim 1, wherein The multiple protruding structures are an arc-shaped structure, a conical structure, a spherical structure, a cylindrical structure, or a long rib structure.

4. The button according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first connector includes an inner frame-shaped body, and the second connector includes an outer frame-shaped body. The plurality of protruding structures are respectively disposed on the upper surfaces of the plurality of side arms of the inner frame-shaped body and / or on the upper surfaces of the plurality of side arms of the outer frame-shaped body.

5. The button according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, When the keycap is pressed to the down position, the first connector and the second connector are arranged horizontally and are not parallel.

6. The button according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The protruding structure is located at the other end of the first connector, and the center point of the protruding structure is either the same as the center point of the first upper shaft or different from the center point.

7. The button according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The protruding structure is located at the other end of the second connector, and the center point of the protruding structure may be the same as or different from the center point of the second upper shaft.

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