Bracket assembly for key switch

Abstract

The present invention discloses a bracket assembly for a key switch. A system may include: a printed circuit board (PCB), the printed circuit board including a top surface; and a bracket, the bracket including: a top surface, the top surface is configured to receive and couple to a key switch; and a bottom surface, the bottom surface includes at least two protrusions, and the at least two protrusions extend perpendicular to the bottom surface of the bracket. The bracket can be configured to be mounted to the PCB so that the bottom surface of the bracket is coupled to the top surface of the PCB, and the at least two protrusions can each include a conductive lead, which is coupled to the top surface of the PCB. The bracket is configured to cover only a portion of the bottom surface of the key switch when coupled to the key switch. The LED can be mounted to the top surface of the PCB, laterally adjacent to the bracket and at a position below the key switch that is not covered by the bracket.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to computer peripherals and, more particularly, to keyboard key structures. Background Art

[0002] Peripherals generally include any auxiliary device that can be used to connect a person to a computer. Some common peripherals include keyboards, computer mice, image scanners, speakers, microphones, webcams, and more. For example, keyboards have improved in functionality and performance over the past few decades to improve user productivity, ergonomics, and performance. For example, the advent of function keys, keypads, programmable hot keys, scroll wheels, etc., have helped users become more efficient by placing commonly used functions in locations that can be quickly accessed.

[0003] In particular, key switches have been improved and modified to accommodate specific user needs. A key switch is a mechanism that records keystrokes and can vary in response to profile, sound, and travel time, which can be selected to suit the needs of the user. Some key switch profiles may have increased tactile feedback, linear feedback distribution, faster response time (e.g., shorter activation threshold), or relatively quiet operation, to name a few common key switch types. Users often have to decide which type of keyboard to buy based on specific needs. Users may purchase a keyboard with a "fast" key structure for gaming applications, a keyboard with a relatively quiet key structure for office applications, and the like. Although the diversity and specialization of key structures may be useful for adapting to the needs of different users, users may have to purchase multiple keyboards to benefit from these advantages, or be committed to a keyboard that works well for one purpose but may not be well suited for other purposes. Improvements are needed to address these issues.

[0004] It should be noted that unless otherwise indicated herein, the materials described in this section are not prior art to the claims in this application and are not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section. Summary of the invention

[0005] In some embodiments, a system may include: a printed circuit board (PCB) including a top surface; a bracket including: a top surface configured to receive and couple to a key switch; and a bottom surface including at least two protrusions extending perpendicular to the bottom surface of the bracket. The bracket may be configured to be mounted to the PCB so that the bottom surface of the bracket is coupled to the top surface of the PCB. Each of the at least two protrusions may include a conductive lead coupled to the top surface of the PCB. In some aspects, the bracket is configured to cover only a portion of the bottom surface of the key switch when coupled to the key switch. The system may include an LED mounted to the top surface of the PCB, laterally adjacent to the bracket and at a position below the key switch that is not covered by the bracket. In some embodiments, the bracket also includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) pin configured to couple the ESD to a ground plane of the PCB. In some aspects, the top plate is configured to receive a clip from the key switch that engages with the top plate when the key switch is coupled to the bracket, wherein the top plate provides structural support for the key switch. The PCB may include at least two holes, the at least two holes being configured to receive two protrusions from the bracket when the bracket is coupled to the top surface of the PCB. The top surface of the bracket may include one or more holes or recesses, the one or more holes or recesses being configured to receive one or more protrusions from the key switch. The top surface and bottom surface of the bracket may be substantially planar and parallel to each other, and the conductive leads of the at least two protrusions extend laterally from the bracket at an angle substantially defined by the planar surface of the top surface of the bracket and the planar surface of the bottom surface. The conductive leads may be soldered to the PCB via a reflow soldering process. In some aspects, when the bracket is mounted to the PCB, the at least two protrusions of the bracket extend at least partially through the PCB.

[0006] In some embodiments, a system includes: a PCB including a top surface; and a plurality of brackets, each of the plurality of brackets including: a top surface configured to receive and couple to a corresponding key switch in a plurality of key switches; and a bottom surface including at least two protrusions extending perpendicularly to the bottom surface of the corresponding bracket. Each of the plurality of brackets can be configured to be mounted to the PCB so that the bottom surface of each of the plurality of brackets is coupled to a corresponding position on the top surface of the PCB. In some aspects, at least two protrusions each include a conductive lead coupled to the top surface of the PCB. The bracket is configured to cover only a portion of the bottom surface of the key switch when coupled to the key switch. The system can include a plurality of LEDs mounted to the top surface of the PCB, each of the plurality of LEDs being laterally adjacent to a corresponding bracket in the plurality of brackets and mounted at a position below the corresponding key switch that is not covered by the corresponding bracket. The system may include a top plate configured to provide structural support for each of the plurality of key switches, wherein the top plate is configured to receive a clip from each of the plurality of key switches that engages with the top plate when the plurality of key switches are coupled to their respective brackets. The PCB may include at least two holes configured to receive two protrusions from the bracket when the bracket is coupled to a top surface of the PCB.

[0007] In another embodiment, a device includes: a bracket, the bracket including: a top surface, the top surface is configured to receive and couple to a key switch; and a bottom surface, the bottom surface including at least two protrusions, the at least two protrusions extending perpendicular to the bottom surface of the bracket. The bracket can be configured to be mounted to a PCB so that the bottom surface of the bracket is coupled to the top surface of the PCB. The at least two protrusions can each include a conductive lead, the conductive lead is configured to couple to the top surface of the PCB. The bracket can be configured to cover only a portion of the bottom surface of the key switch when coupled to the key switch. In some aspects, the conductive leads of the at least two protrusions extend laterally from the bracket, and wherein, when the key switch is triggered, a conductive path is closed, the conductive path leading from the key switch to the bracket and laterally from the bracket to the top surface of the PCB via the conductive leads.

[0008] This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of the disclosure, any or all of the drawings, and each claim.

[0009] The foregoing features and other features and examples will be described in more detail in the following specification, claims and accompanying drawings.

[0010] The terms and expressions that have been employed are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and it is not intended that the use of such terms and expressions exclude any equivalents of the features shown and described, or portions thereof. However, it is recognized that various modifications may be made within the scope of the claimed systems and methods. Therefore, it should be understood that although the present systems and methods have been specifically disclosed by way of examples and optional features, those skilled in the art should recognize modifications and variations of the concepts disclosed herein, and such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of the systems and methods defined by the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The features of the above-mentioned various embodiments of the present invention as well as other features and advantages of certain embodiments will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] Figure 1 shows a keyboard in a typical system environment;

[0013] Figure 2 A simplified system block diagram showing a keyboard and a host computing device according to certain embodiments;

[0014] Figure 3 showing a keyboard including a plurality of key structures with keycaps according to some embodiments;

[0015] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A key structure with a novel bracket structure according to certain embodiments is shown in both assembled and exploded views;

[0016] Figure 5A and Figure 5B illustrates aspects of a stent assembly according to certain embodiments;

[0017] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C illustrates a bracket assembly coupled to a printed circuit board according to certain embodiments;

[0018] Figure 7 illustrates aspects of a support assembly that accommodates placement of light emitting diode structures according to certain embodiments; and

[0019] Figure 8 Another embodiment of a novel bracket assembly accommodating a low profile key switch in a key structure according to certain embodiments is shown.

[0020] Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are generally used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] According to certain implementations, aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to computer peripherals and, more particularly, to keyboard key structures.

[0022] In the following description, various examples of novel key structures that enable a user to "hot-swap" a key switch are described. For illustrative purposes, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that certain embodiments may be practiced or implemented without each of the disclosed details. In addition, well-known features may be omitted or simplified to prevent any ambiguity in the novel features described herein.

[0023] The following high-level overview is intended to provide a basic understanding of some of the novel innovations depicted in the accompanying drawings and presented in the corresponding descriptions provided below. Contemporary keyboards and other computer peripherals that employ keyboard-like keys typically utilize key switches. A key switch is a mechanism that registers a keystroke and can vary in response to profile, sound, travel time, and travel distance, which can be selected to suit the needs of the user. For example, among other mechanical properties, some key switch profiles can have different tactile feedback (e.g., how a "clicky" key feels), some profiles can be linear, some can have faster response times (e.g., shorter activation thresholds), some can have relatively quiet operation, and some can be any combination thereof. Users typically have to decide which type of keyboard to purchase based on key attributes that are useful for a particular application (e.g., gaming, office efficiency, casual use, etc.), and may need to purchase multiple keyboards to accommodate multiple types of applications.

[0024] Aspects of the present invention can solve this problem by providing a bracket assembly that enables a user to "hot-swap" or quickly remove a key switch from a computer peripheral device (e.g., keyboard 140) and swap it out with a different key switch, which can be accomplished without a time-consuming and complicated assembly process or disassembly process. That is, the user can simply remove the keycap on the key structure, unplug the existing key switch from the socket (e.g., bracket assembly 430), insert the new key switch, and replace the keycap, which can be completed in a few seconds. Although many of the embodiments described herein are applicable to a specific key switch type (e.g., MX Cherry type switch), it should be understood that the concepts described herein can be applied to any type of key switch mechanism.

[0025] According to some embodiments (see e.g. Figure 4A and Figure 4B), a system operable to implement hot swapping of a key switch may include: a printed circuit board (PCB) including a top surface; a bracket assembly including: a top surface configured to receive a key switch and coupled to the key switch; and a bottom surface including at least two protrusions extending perpendicular to the bottom surface of the bracket assembly. The bracket may be configured to be mounted to the PCB so that the bottom surface of the bracket assembly is coupled to the top surface of the PCB, and the at least two protrusions may each include a conductive lead coupled to the top surface of the PWB. The bracket assembly may be configured to cover only a portion of the bottom surface of the key switch when coupled to the key switch to accommodate placement of an LED below the key switch, the LED being able to direct light to illuminate a corresponding key cover. The LED may be mounted to the top surface of the PCB, laterally adjacent to the bracket, and at a location below the key switch that is not covered by the bracket assembly. The bracket may also include an electrostatic discharge (ESD) pin configured to couple the ESD to a ground plane of the PCB. A top plate (e.g., a key frame of a keyboard) can provide structural support for the key switch and can receive a clip from the key switch that engages the top plate when the key switch is coupled to the bracket. The PCB can include at least two holes configured to receive at least two protrusions from the bracket assembly, and the at least two protrusions can extend at least partially through the PCB when the bracket assembly is coupled to the PCB. The top surface of the bracket can include one or more holes or recesses configured to receive one or more protrusions from the key switch. In some embodiments, the top and bottom surfaces of the bracket can be substantially planar, and the conductive leads of the at least two protrusions can extend laterally from the bracket at an angle substantially defined by the planar surface of the top surface and the planar surface of the bottom surface of the bracket, and the at least two protrusions can be soldered to the PCB via a reflow soldering process.

[0026] It should be understood that this high-level overview is presented to provide the reader with a basic understanding of some of the novel aspects of the present disclosure and a road map for the details that follow. This high-level overview in no way limits the scope of the various embodiments described throughout the detailed description, and each of the figures referenced above is further described below in more detail and to its proper extent.

[0027] Figure 1An example of a computer system 100 is shown, which may include any of a variety of host computing devices and computer peripherals, including peripherals (e.g., keyboards, computer mice, etc.) that may be configured to include aspects of the various inventive concepts described herein. The computer system 100 shows a user 105 operating a host computing device (shown as a desktop computer) 110 and a plurality of computer peripherals communicatively coupled to the host computing device 110, including a display device 120, a computer mouse 130, and a keyboard 140, and the computer system 100 may include any other suitable computer peripherals.

[0028] Although the host computing device is shown as a desktop computer, other types of host computing devices may also be used, including gaming systems, laptop computers, set-top boxes, entertainment systems, tablet computers or "phablet" computers, stand-alone head-mounted displays (HMDs), or any other suitable host computing devices (e.g., smart phones, smart wearable devices, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, etc.). In some cases, multiple host computing devices may be used, and one or more of the computer peripheral devices may be communicatively coupled to one, some, or all of the host computing devices (e.g., a computer keyboard may be coupled to multiple host computing devices). The host computing device may also be referred to herein as a "host," "host computer," "host device," "computing device," "computer," etc. and may include a machine-readable medium (not shown) configured to store computer code, such as driver software, firmware, etc., which may be executed by one or more processors in the host computing device to control various aspects of the host computing device, for example, via one or more computer peripheral devices.

[0029] Typical computer peripherals may include any suitable input devices, output devices, or input / output devices, including those shown (e.g., computer keyboard 140) and devices not shown (e.g., game controllers, HMDs, remote control devices, etc.), AR / VR controllers, joysticks, stylus devices, or other suitable devices that can be used to convert analog inputs into digital signals for computer processing. As an example, a computer peripheral (e.g., keyboard 140) may be configured to provide control signals for input detection (e.g., alphanumeric input, knob / wheel movement, etc.), output functions (e.g., LED control, tactile feedback, display, etc.), or any of a large number of other functions that may be provided by a computer peripheral, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0030] Computer peripherals may be referred to as "input devices", "peripheral input devices", "peripheral devices", "computer input devices", "user interface devices", "control devices", "input units", etc. Most of the embodiments described herein generally refer to a specific computer peripheral (keyboard 140), however it should be understood that a computer peripheral may be any suitable input / output (I / O) device that may be adapted to utilize the novel embodiments described and contemplated herein.

[0031] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A simplified block diagram of a keyboard 140 and an example host computing device 110 is shown. Figure 2 As shown, the keyboard 140 may include a processor 205 coupled to a communication module 210, a memory 215, a battery 220, one or more user interface keys 225, and a visual / tactile output module 230. The plurality of user interface keys 225 may be configured to be physically actuated by a user of the keyboard, with each key transmitting a specific signal to the processor 205. The processor 205 includes circuitry that receives a specific signal from each user interface key 225 and responds by commanding the communication module 210 to send a signal corresponding to the specific key to the host computer 110 via a communication channel 245. The processor 205 may be programmed to employ one or more visual outputs and / or tactile outputs 230 (e.g., light, audible sound, vibration, etc.), as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0032] In some embodiments, the battery 220 can independently power some or all of the keyboard functional blocks 205 to 225 including the processor 205. In such embodiments, the keyboard 140 can be configured independently of the host computing device 110, wherein the configuration is stored in the memory 215. In other embodiments, the keyboard 140 can be used with multiple host computing devices 110 and can maintain a constant configuration, regardless of the host with which the keyboard 140 is communicating. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the host computing device may not need to install software to communicate with the keyboard 140.

[0033] The processor 205 may include any type of logic device, including a programmable integrated circuit, or, for example, one or more single-core microprocessors or multi-core microprocessors and / or a microcontroller that executes program code to perform various functions associated with the keyboard 140. For example, the processor 205 may implement various processes (or portions of the processes) described throughout the present disclosure as implemented by peripheral devices, for example, by executing program code stored in the memory 215. The processor 205 may also execute other programs to control other functions of the keyboard 140. In some cases, the program executed by the processor 205 may interact with the host computer by generating messages to be sent to the host computer (e.g., the host computer 110) and / or receiving messages from the host computer. In some cases, the communication module 210 or a wired connection (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB)) may be used to send and / or receive messages.

[0034] The communication module 210 can provide wireless communication capabilities or wired communication capabilities for the keyboard 140. In some embodiments, the communication module 210 may include: a radio frequency (RF) transceiver component for accessing a wireless voice network and / or a data network (e.g., using cellular phone technology, data network technology such as 3G, 4G / LTE, WiFi, other IEEE 802.11 series standards or other mobile communication technologies, or any combination thereof); a component for short-range wireless communication (e.g., using Bluetooth and / or Bluetooth LE standards, NFC, etc.); and / or other components. In some embodiments, in addition to or instead of a wireless interface, the communication module 210 can provide a wired network connection (e.g., Ethernet). The communication module 210 can be implemented using a combination of hardware components (e.g., driver circuits, antennas, modulators / demodulators, encoders / decoders, and other analog signal processing circuits and / or digital signal processing circuits) and software components. In some embodiments, the communication module 210 can support multiple communication channels simultaneously or at different times using the same transmission or different transmissions. Thus, for example, keyboard 140 may communicate with the host via a local channel at certain times and via a relay service at other times.

[0035] The memory 215 may be implemented, for example, using a disk, flash memory, or any other non-transitory storage medium or combination of media, and may include volatile media and / or non-volatile media. In some embodiments, the memory 215 may store one or more programs (e.g., firmware) to be executed by the processor 205, including programs for implementing various operations described as being performed by a keyboard or other suitable computer peripheral device. The memory 215 may also store peripheral device objects or peripheral device definition records that may be provided (furnished) to the host computing device, for example, during device discovery. The memory 215 may also store peripheral device status information and any other data that may be used during the operation of the keyboard 140. The memory 215 may also store executable program code to communicate with the communication interface 250.

[0036] The battery 220 may include any type of energy storage device, including rechargeable devices and non-rechargeable devices. In some embodiments, the battery 220 is a nickel metal hydride, nickel cadmium, lithium ion, or lead acid configuration. Those skilled in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate that other types of energy storage devices may be used. In some embodiments, the battery 220 may be wirelessly rechargeable.

[0037] The user interface key 225 may include a user-operable input device, such as one or more depressible keys. Each user interface key 225 may correspond to a unique signal that is transmitted to the processor 205 so that the processor recognizes the user's desired input. In some embodiments, the user interface key 225 may include any type of key that utilizes a key switch, such as at least one key associated with a user interface key. Figures 3 to 8 Further described.

[0038] The visual / tactile output 230 may include any output device that can be used to communicate with a user. In some embodiments, the light can be turned on or off, the light can change color, and the light can flash at different rates. The tactile device can vibrate, tap or tap the keyboard, and in some embodiments, the tactile device can include an unbalanced motor that provides vibration and / or a voice coil. In various embodiments, the tactile device can be included in the base or wrist rest, or it can be key-specific. The auditory device can emit a beep, a tone, music, a recorded message, and / or an electronically generated message. In other embodiments, a display screen can be used. In some embodiments, one or more lights that illuminate a key can be used as a digital display screen. That is, each key light can be used to display an alphanumeric message to the user. The message can be static and / or the message can scroll, and / or the message can include characters displayed in sequence. Those skilled in the art who benefit from the present disclosure will understand that other types of visual output devices / tactile output devices can be used without departing from the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 2 Also shown is a simplified block diagram of an example host computing device, which may illustrate a Figure 1 1 and 1 . The host computing device 110 (or other suitable host computing device) shown in the figure may be implemented as a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a smart phone, other mobile phones, wearable computing devices, cellular phones or other systems with any form factor. In addition, in some embodiments, the host computing device 110 may be implemented partially in a base station and partially in a mobile unit that communicates with the base station and provides a user interface.

[0040] The communication interface 250 may provide voice and / or data communication capabilities for the host computing device 110. In some embodiments, the communication interface 250 may include: a radio frequency (RF) transceiver component for accessing a wireless voice network and / or data network (e.g., using cellular phone technology, data network technology such as 3G, 4G / LTE, Wi-Fi, other IEEE 802.11 series standards or other mobile communication technologies, or any combination thereof); a component for short-range wireless communication (e.g., using Bluetooth and / or Bluetooth LE standards, NFC, etc.); and / or other components. In some embodiments, in addition to or in place of a wireless interface, the communication interface 250 may provide a wired network connection (e.g., Ethernet). The communication interface 250 may be implemented using a combination of hardware components (e.g., driver circuits, antennas, modulators / demodulators, encoders / decoders, and other analog signal processing circuits and / or digital signal processing circuits) and software components. In some embodiments, the communication interface 250 may support multiple communication channels simultaneously or at different times using the same transport or different transports. Thus, for example, host computing device 110 can communicate with an accessory via a local channel at some times and via a relay service at other times.

[0041] The processing subsystem 255 may be implemented as one or more integrated circuits, for example, one or more single-core microprocessors or multi-core microprocessors or microcontrollers, examples of which are known in the art. In operation, the processing system 255 may control the operation of the host computing device 110. In various embodiments, the processing subsystem 255 may execute various programs in response to program code and may maintain multiple concurrently executed programs or processes. At any given moment, some or all of the program code to be executed may reside in the processing subsystem 255 and / or a storage medium such as a storage device 260.

[0042] Through appropriate programming, the processing subsystem 255 can provide various functions for the host computing device 110. For example, in some embodiments, the processing subsystem 255 can implement various processes (or portions of the processes) as implemented by the host computing device described above. The processing subsystem 255 can also execute other programs for controlling other functions of the host computing device 110, including application programs that can be stored in the storage device 260. In some embodiments, these applications can interact with peripheral devices, such as by generating messages to be sent to the peripheral devices and / or receiving responses from the peripheral devices. Such interaction can be facilitated by a peripheral device management daemon and / or other operating system processes, such as described above, and such interaction can include communicating with the peripheral devices via the communication interface 250.

[0043] The storage device 260 may be implemented, for example, using a disk, flash memory, or any other non-transitory storage medium or combination of media, and may include volatile media and / or non-volatile media. In some embodiments, the storage device 260 may store one or more application programs and / or operating system programs to be executed by the processing subsystem 255, including programs for implementing the various operations described above as performed by a host computing device. For example, the storage device 260 may store a unified host application that can read a peripheral device description record and generate a graphical user interface for controlling the peripheral device based on the information in the peripheral device description record. The storage device 260 may also store program code that is executable to communicate with the communication module 210 of a peripheral keyboard device (e.g., keyboard 140). Although Figure 2 Communication interface 250 is shown as a subsystem of host computing device 110, but it should be understood that communication interface 250 can be a dongle that is inserted into and electrically coupled to host computing device 110. In some embodiments, some (or all) of the host computing device functions described herein can be implemented in an operating system program rather than an application. In some embodiments, storage device 260 can also store applications designed for specific accessories or specific categories of accessories ("applications").

[0044] The network interface 265 may include any type of connection to a network, including wired Ethernet, RS-232 or other, and wireless (including data network technologies such as 3G, 4G / LTE, Wi-Fi, other IEEE 802.11 series standards or other mobile communication technologies), or any combination thereof; components for short-range wireless communications (e.g., using Bluetooth and / or Bluetooth LE standards, NFC, etc.), and / or other components. In some embodiments, in addition to or in place of a wireless interface, the network interface 265 may provide a wired network connection (e.g., Ethernet). The network interface 265 may be implemented using a combination of hardware components (e.g., driver circuits, antennas, modulators / demodulators, encoders / decoders, and other analog signal processing circuits and / or digital signal processing circuits) and software components.

[0045] In addition, although the host is described herein with reference to specific blocks, it should be understood that these blocks are defined for convenience of description and are not intended to imply a specific physical arrangement of component parts. In addition, blocks do not need to correspond to physically different components. Blocks can be configured to perform various operations, such as by programming a processor or providing appropriate control circuits, and various blocks may or may not be reconfigurable depending on how the initial configuration is obtained. Implementations of the present disclosure can be implemented in various devices including electronic devices implemented using any combination of circuits and software.

[0046] The host computing devices and peripheral devices described herein may be implemented in electronic devices that may generally have a conventional design. Such devices may be adapted to communicate using a unified peripheral device protocol that supports command and control operations, by which the host (first electronic device) may control the operation of the peripheral device (second electronic device). In some cases, such as in the case of a proxy server as described above, the device may combine features or aspects of the host and peripheral devices.

[0047] It will be understood that the system configurations and components described herein are illustrative, and variations and modifications are possible. It should be understood that an implementation of the host computing device 110 may perform all operations as performed by the media access device described above, and an implementation of the keyboard 140 may perform any or all operations as performed by the peripheral device described above. A proxy server, bridge, channel, or coordinator may combine components of the host computing device 110 and components of the keyboard 140 using the same hardware or different hardware as needed. The media access device and / or the peripheral device may have other capabilities not specifically described herein (e.g., mobile phone, global positioning system (GPS), broadband data communication, Internet connection, etc.). Depending on the implementation, the devices may interoperate to provide any functionality supported by either (or both) devices, or to provide functionality partially implemented in each device. In some embodiments, a specific peripheral device may have some functions that cannot be accessed or called via a specific media access device but may be accessed via another host or by directly interacting with the peripheral device.

[0048] Furthermore, while media access devices and peripheral devices are described herein with reference to particular blocks, it should be understood that these blocks are defined for ease of description and are not intended to imply a particular physical arrangement of component parts. Furthermore, blocks need not correspond to physically distinct components. Blocks may be configured to perform various operations, for example by programming a processor or providing appropriate control circuitry, and various blocks may or may not be reconfigurable depending on how the initial configuration is obtained. Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in a variety of devices including electronic devices implemented using any combination of circuitry and software.

[0049] Figure 3A keyboard 300 including a plurality of key structures 310 is shown according to some embodiments. The keyboard 300 may include any suitable number and / or arrangement of key structures, and the key structures may be configured to trigger any suitable output, including but not limited to alphanumeric output, functional output (e.g., function keys), directional (e.g., arrow keys), multiple outputs (e.g., numbers and symbols), etc. In some cases, a tactile output (e.g., vibration) or a visual output (e.g., lighting) may be associated with one or more key structures. The key structures are arranged within and may be coupled to a key frame 320, which is also referred to as a "top plate," as discussed below at the end with respect to Figure 4A and Figure 4B Further described. Figure 3 The key structures of FIG. 1 only show the key caps for each key structure, however, FIG. 4A to FIG. 8 A more detailed view and corresponding discussion of the novel features presented herein are better illustrated and described in the accompanying drawings.

[0050] In some embodiments, the key structure may include a key switch. A key switch is a mechanism that registers a keystroke and may change in response to shape, sound, travel time, and travel distance. Many contemporary keyboards use "Mechanical X-Point" or "MX" key switches, which exhibit excellent performance characteristics, including a variety of possible force distributions (e.g., the "feel" of a key press) and operating life (e.g., more than 50 million strokes before material signal degradation). Although key switches may vary, a key switch generally includes: a rod and corresponding precision coil spring that form a mechanical module that operates to define the operating characteristics of the key (e.g., linear operation, actuation force threshold, etc.) and a cross mount (e.g., which may be displayed as a "plus sign" or cross on the top of the key switch, such as Figure 4B). The key switch may include an upper housing that covers the mechanical module, and the key switch may operate to facilitate precise guidance of the switch slider. The key switch may also include a cross-point contact portion (e.g., made of copper, gold, or other suitable conductive material) to close a circuit to trigger a key structure output when the key is pressed. The housing base may serve as a base for the key switch and is typically reinforced (e.g., with fiberglass) for pressure stability and durability. As described above, the key switches may have widely varying performance characteristics. Some key switches may have tactile output, in which the module has a noticeable and / or audible click point or "clickiness", which is a unique feature of mechanical keyboards. Linear key switches generally do not include this type of physical feedback, but instead have feedback with linear resistive characteristics. Some types of key switches may be configured for: gaming (e.g., fast triggering with minimal activation force); office productivity (e.g., tactile with a detectable actuation point with or without a click); precision (e.g., tactile with a high activation force); accuracy (e.g., linear and with a tight helical coil for a faster return to the key switch's resting position); and speed (e.g., low activation force, short pre-travel, and linear switching), to name a few. Many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0051] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A key structure 400 with a novel support structure according to some embodiments is shown in both assembled and exploded views. The key structure 400 may include a keycap 405, a key switch 410, a top plate 420 (also referred to as a metal plate), a support assembly 430 (also referred to as a GX bracket), and a printed circuit board or PCB 440 (also referred to as a PWA). The key switch 410 registers keystrokes and may change in response to form, sound, travel time, and travel distance, as described above.

[0052] The top plate 420 can provide structural support for the key switches and can receive clips 414 from the key switches 410 that can engage with the top plate when the key switches are coupled to the bracket assembly 430, thereby securing the key structure within the keyboard. In some embodiments, the top plate 420 can provide structural support for multiple key switches (e.g., >100 keys), which can be mounted on the keyboard. Figure 3 320. Top plate 420 can extend laterally in any direction, and although top plate 420 is typically presented as the top surface of the keyboard, it can be an intermediate layer. In some aspects, top plate 420 can be planar or can have contours, such as in certain ergonomically contoured keyboards. For example, top plate 420 can have a two-dimensional (e.g., Figure 4AThe top plate 420 may be configured to have a contour in a three-dimensional (e.g., XY plane shape as shown) or three-dimensional (e.g., XYZ shape of a contoured surface), and the thickness of the top plate 420 may vary. The top plate 420 is typically a single, unitary plate having a plurality of holes to accommodate at least one key structure. However, the top plate 420 may include a single hole (e.g., in Figure 4A and Figure 4B The top plate 420 may include a plurality of holes, and the top plate 420 may include a plurality of continuous or discontinuous portions that may be planar or non-planar. Those of ordinary skill in the art who have benefited from this disclosure will appreciate many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the disclosure.

[0053] The bracket assembly ("bracket") 430 can be configured to receive and couple to the key switch 410 in a manner that allows a user to "hot swap" or quickly remove and replace the key switch 410, for example, to achieve different key switch profiles. Conventionally, key switches are soldered to a PCB or secured by other key structural features, which makes replacing a key switch a cumbersome and time-consuming process. The bracket assembly 430 can enable a user to easily remove and replace a key switch in seconds. The top surface of the bracket assembly 430 may include: a hole, slot, or recess 432 (also referred to as a "bracket") that is configured to receive one or more protrusions 412 (also referred to as "posts" or "pins") from the bottom side of the key switch, such as Figure 4B As described above, one or more protrusions 412 of the key switch 410 may include conductive elements that can conduct signals caused by activation of the key switch, and as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. In some embodiments, the bracket assembly has a planar or substantially planar top and bottom surface.

[0054] The bracket assembly 430 may include holes, slots, or recesses 434 that may receive corresponding conductive leads 435a-435b (collectively referred to herein as "conductive leads 435," which may also be referred to as contact pins). The conductive leads 435 may be arranged within the bracket assembly 430 such that a portion of the conductive leads 435 is aligned with the holes 432, 434 in the top surface of the bracket assembly 430. Thus, when the key switch 410 is coupled to the bracket assembly 430, the conductive leads 435 from the key switch 410 may be mechanically and electrically coupled to the conductive elements of the one or more protrusions 412.

[0055] The conductive lead 435 may be a spring loaded clip that may slide into the recess 434, as in FIG. 6B to FIG. 6C430 . The spring-loaded clip can be retained inside the bracket assembly 430 via a press fit. Although the embodiments described herein generally show spring-type conductive leads, other types of conductive leads, such as screws, clips, clamps, tabs, or other suitable mechanisms with conductive portions, may also be used. The conductive lead 435 can extend laterally from the bracket assembly 430. Alternatively or additionally, the conductive lead 435 can extend radially from the bracket assembly 430 in any suitable direction. The conductive lead 435 can be flat, or can include multiple bends, different thicknesses, or can be divided into multiple leads, etc. In some implementations, the conductive lead 435 can extend from the bracket assembly 430 at least initially at an angle roughly defined by the top and bottom surfaces of the plane of the bracket assembly. The conductive lead 435 is typically soldered to the top side of the PCB 440 (e.g., via a reflow soldering process), which is typically a location with a conductive pad, pin, area, or other structure (e.g., conductive pad 448 (also referred to as an SMD pad)). Thus, when the key switch 410 is mounted into the hole / recess 432 of the bracket assembly 430, a complete conductive path is created, which leads from the key switch 410 into the hole / recess 432 and laterally / radially out from the bracket assembly 430 to the top side of the PCB 440 via the conductive leads 435, which can be achieved via surface mounting, pins, wires, or hardware-based electrical coupling implementations (e.g., screws, pins, tabs, etc.), as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure.

[0056] In some embodiments, the bottom side of the bracket assembly 430 can be coupled to the top surface of the PCB 440, such as Figure 4A and Figure 4B 446, which may further increase the stability of the key structure in the PCB 440. The protrusions 438, 439 may extend at least partially through the one or more holes or recesses of the PCB 440, as shown. A printed circuit board—or PCB—is a general term for technology that allows conductors to run from one location on the board to another location on the board and from one layer to another, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. In some aspects, the bracket assembly 430 may include at least two protrusions 438, 439 extending perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the bracket assembly 430. The PCB 440 may include one or more holes or recesses (e.g., holes 442, 444, 446) that may receive the at least two protrusions 438, 439 when the bracket assembly 430 is coupled to the top surface of the PCB 440. In some cases, a post (not shown) from the key switch 410 may partially or completely pass through the hole 446, which may further increase the stability of the key structure in the PCB 440. The protrusions 438, 439 may extend at least partially through the one or more holes or recesses of the PCB 440, as shown. FIG. 6B to FIG. 6CAs shown. In some cases, the protrusions 438, 439 may not extend partially through one or more holes or recesses of the PCB 440, or the protrusions 438, 439 may extend all the way through the PCB 440. Although PCBs are primarily shown and described throughout this disclosure, other types of boards such as printed wiring boards (PWBs) may also be used and other types of boards typically include epoxy glass substrates to create electrical interconnects and for connecting to components used to create electronic circuits. For purposes of this disclosure, PCBs and PWBs may be used interchangeably, and any other type of substrate or mounting surface may be used with the novel key structure arrangement described herein, as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0057] In some embodiments, the bracket assembly 430 is configured to cover only a portion of the bottom surface of the key switch 410 to accommodate the placement of the LED 450, which can direct light to illuminate the corresponding key cap. The LED 450 can be mounted to the top surface of the PCB 440, laterally adjacent to the bracket assembly 430 and at a position below the key switch 410 that is not covered by the bracket assembly 430. In some aspects, because the bracket assembly 430 can cover only a portion of the bottom surface of the key switch 410, when the key cap is pressed, the key structure 400 may be subject to rotational strain, which is due to the force applied to the key cap causing the key switch 410 to have a tendency to rotate downward on the area below the key switch 410 that is not covered by the bracket assembly 430. The top plate 420 can provide structural support to alleviate the rotational strain and possible corresponding rotation of the key structure 400. In some embodiments, the top plate 420 can include a rigid material such as a metal (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.) or a sturdy composite material that can be more resistant to bending and rotation than a plastic top plate can provide. The various types of materials that may be used for top plate 420 to better relieve rotational strain are not limited to metal embodiments and composite embodiments, and may include other materials or dimensions (e.g., thicker top plates), as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0058] In some aspects, the bracket assembly 430 can include a mounting location 436 configured to receive an electrostatic discharge (ESD) pin 437 (shown as a conductive bracket) configured to couple ESD (e.g., received from the key switch 410, PCB 440) to a ground plane of the PCB 440. The ESD pin 437 can be a spring-loaded conductive clip or other suitable conductive hardware or fixture electrically coupled to the key switch 410 and / or the PCB 440.

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, the bracket assembly may have a planar or substantially planar top surface and bottom surface. The top surface may be at least two holes with two electrical contacts (e.g., conductive leads) configured to receive conductive pins of a key switch. The conductive leads may extend laterally from the bracket. The bottom surface of the bracket assembly may be configured to be on the top surface of a substrate (e.g., a PCB), and the conductive leads extending laterally from the bracket assembly are coupled to the top surface of the substrate (e.g., via reflow soldering, etc.). The bracket assembly may include one or more protrusions extending from the bottom of the bracket assembly. One or more protrusions may extend at least partially into one or more holes or recesses in the substrate. The bracket assembly may include a ground pin. The bracket assembly may include a hole, a cut-off portion, or a recess to accommodate a column mounted to the bracket extending downward from the key switch. In some embodiments, the column may extend through or partially through the substrate.

[0060] Depending on the implementation, there may be Figure 4A and Figure 4B The technical advantages presented by key structures similar to the key structures shown in the drawings. For example, as described above, the bracket assembly 430 can be used as a bracket to enable key switches to be quickly and effectively "hot-swapped". Since the mounting of the bracket assembly 430 and the conductive leads 435 can be performed on one side of the corresponding PCB 440 instead of both sides, the manufacturing process can be simplified. Therefore, soldering and reflow can be performed on only one side of the PCB. In addition, the bracket assembly 430 can reduce the height profile of the entire key structure while still leaving sufficient volume area for accommodating the LEDs 450 to illuminate the corresponding keycaps individually. The bracket assemblies discussed herein can represent a simple design (in terms of manufacturing and assembly) and can be slightly modified to accommodate many different types of key switches. For example, Figure 8 A key structure similar to key structure 400 but having a lower profile is shown.

[0061] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Various aspects of a bracket assembly 430 are shown according to certain embodiments. Figure 5A , the bracket assembly 430 is shown to include a hole / recess 432 in the top side (e.g., for accommodating a portion of the conductive lead 435 and the key switch protrusion 412) and a hole / recess 434 on the side (e.g., for mounting and placing the conductive lead 435). The bracket assembly 430 also includes a mounting location 436 to receive an ESD pin 437. Figure 5B The bottom of the bracket assembly 430 is shown, including the protrusions 438, 439. In these images and FIG. 6B to FIG. 6C, it is easier to see how the conductive leads 435 are configured within the protrusions 438, 439 (to couple to the conductive element of the protrusion 412 of the key switch 410) and extend laterally out of the recess 434 to form a continuous electrical path from the key switch 410 to the PCB 440 when coupled with the recess 434 (e.g., at the conductive pad 448) as described above.

[0062] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C 4 shows a bracket assembly 430 coupled to a printed circuit board 440 according to some embodiments. More specifically, Fig. 6A and Figure 6B 4 shows how the bottom surface / bottom side of the bracket assembly 430 is coupled to the top side / top surface of the PCB 440. Figure 6B 4, PCB 440 is presented in a transparent representation to better illustrate how the protrusions 438, 439 of the bracket assembly 430 can be assembled within the PCB 440. The protrusions 438, 439 can extend at least partially through one or more holes or recesses 442, 444 of the PCB 440, as shown. In some cases, the protrusions 438, 439 may not extend partially through the PCB 440, or the protrusions 438, 439 may extend all the way through the PCB 440. In some embodiments, the bracket assembly 430 may not have protrusions 438, 439 and may be coupled to the PCB 440 via an adhesive, hardware (e.g., screws, clips, screws, pins, etc.), or a combination thereof. The conductive leads 435 may extend partially into the protrusions 438, 439 or may not extend partially into the protrusions 438, 439. The protrusions 438 , 439 may provide a barrier between the conductive leads 435 and the surrounding PCB 440 to prevent unintentional electrical shorts between the conductive leads 435 and the surrounding PCB 440 . Figure 6C A transparent representation of the support assembly 430 and PCB 440 is presented to better illustrate the structure of the conductive leads 435 and ESD pins 437 according to certain embodiments.

[0063] Figure 7 Various aspects of a bracket assembly that accommodates placement of a light emitting diode structure according to certain embodiments are shown. As described above, the bracket assembly 430 is configured to cover only a portion of the bottom surface of the key switch 410 to accommodate the placement of an LED 450, which can direct light to illuminate a corresponding keycap. For example, the keycap can include a transparent portion, typically in the shape of a character or symbol (e.g., an alphanumeric character, a special character, etc.), through which light can travel to illuminate the character or symbol. According to certain embodiments, the LED 450 can be mounted to the top surface of the PCB 440 at an area 750, which is laterally adjacent to the bracket assembly 430 and below the key switch 410.

[0064] Figure 8 Another embodiment of a novel bracket assembly in a key structure for accommodating a low profile key switch according to certain embodiments is shown. The key structure 800 can be configured with FIG. 4A to FIG. 7 The key structure 800 can be assembled and operated in a similar manner to the embodiments of the present invention. For example, the key structure 800 can include a keycap 805, a key switch 810, a top plate 820 (also referred to as a metal plate), and a bracket assembly 830 (also referred to as a GX bracket). The key switch 810 can be a low-profile type key switch and can be fixed to the top plate 820 via a clip 814 and coupled to the bracket assembly 830 via a protrusion 812 and a recess 832. The bracket assembly 830 can be coupled to the PCB 840 (also referred to as a PWA) via protrusions 838, 839 (not shown) and holes 842, 844, as shown. In some aspects, the low-profile key switch 810 may or may not have sufficient volume area below the key switch 810 and adjacent to the bracket assembly 830 to accommodate the LED. In addition, Figure 8 The elements such as 834, 835a, 835b, 837, 846, 848, 850 correspond to Figure 4B The components such as 434, 435a, 435b, 437, 446, 448, 450 are not described in detail here. Those skilled in the art who have benefited from the present disclosure will understand many modifications, variations and alternative embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0065] Many specific details are set forth herein to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the claimed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, methods, devices, or systems known to those of ordinary skill in the art are not described in detail in order to avoid blurring the claimed subject matter. The various embodiments shown and described are provided only as examples to illustrate the various features of the claims. However, the features shown and described with respect to any given embodiment are not necessarily limited to the associated embodiments, and can be used or combined with other embodiments shown and described. In addition, the claims are intended to be not limited to any one example embodiment.

[0066] Although the subject matter has been described in detail with respect to specific embodiments of the subject matter, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can easily generate changes, modifications and equivalents to such embodiments after obtaining an understanding of the foregoing. Therefore, it should be understood that, as will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, the present disclosure is presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation, and does not exclude the inclusion of such modifications, modifications and / or additions to the subject matter. In fact, the methods and systems described herein may be embodied in various other forms; in addition, various omissions, substitutions and changes may be made to the form of the methods and systems described herein without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. The attached claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

[0067] Unless expressly stated otherwise, conditional language used herein, such as "can," "could," "might," "may," "eg," etc., or otherwise understood in context as used, is generally intended to express that certain examples include certain features, elements, and / or steps while other examples do not. Thus, such conditional language is generally not intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required for one or more examples, or that one or more examples must include logic for deciding whether such features, elements, and / or steps are included in any particular example or are to be performed in any particular example, with or without author input or prompting.

[0068] The terms "comprise", "include", "have", etc. are synonymous and are used inclusively in an open manner, and do not exclude additional elements, features, actions, operations, etc. In addition, the term "or" is used in its inclusive sense (rather than in its exclusive sense), so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term "or" means one, some or all of the elements in the list. The use of "suitable for" or "configured to" herein means open and inclusive language, which does not exclude devices that are suitable for or configured to perform additional tasks or steps. In addition, the use of "based on" means open and inclusive, because the processing, steps, calculations or other actions "based on" one or more listed conditions or values ​​may actually be based on additional conditions or values ​​other than those listed. Similarly, the use of "based at least in part on" means open and inclusive, because the processing, steps, calculations or other actions "based at least in part on" one or more listed conditions or values ​​may actually be based on additional conditions or values ​​other than those listed. The titles, lists and tags included herein are only for ease of explanation and are not meant to be limited.

[0069] The various features and processes described above can be used independently of each other, or can be used in combination in various ways. All possible combinations and sub-combinations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, in some embodiments, certain methods or processing blocks can be omitted. The methods and processes described herein are also not limited to any particular order, and the blocks or states associated therewith can be performed in other appropriate orders. For example, the blocks or states described can be performed in an order other than the specifically disclosed order, or multiple blocks or states can be combined in a single block or state. Example blocks or states can be performed serially, in parallel, or in some other way. Blocks or states can be added to the disclosed examples or removed from the disclosed examples. Similarly, the example systems and components described herein can be configured differently from those described. For example, elements can be added, removed, or rearranged compared to the disclosed examples.

Claims

1. A system comprising: a printed circuit board (PCB), the printed circuit board comprising a top surface; A support, comprising: a top surface configured to receive and couple to a key switch; and a bottom surface, the bottom surface comprising at least two protrusions extending perpendicularly to the bottom surface of the bracket, the top and bottom surfaces of the bracket being substantially planar and parallel to each other, wherein the bracket is configured to be mounted to the PCB such that a bottom surface of the bracket is coupled to a top surface of the PCB, wherein the at least two protrusions each include a conductive lead coupled to the top surface of the PCB and extending laterally from the bracket at an angle substantially defined by a planar surface of the top surface and a planar surface of the bottom surface of the bracket, and Wherein, the bracket further includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) pin, and the pin is configured to couple the ESD to a ground plane of the PCB.

2. A device comprising: A support, comprising: a top surface configured to receive and couple to a key switch; and a bottom surface, the bottom surface comprising at least two protrusions, the at least two protrusions extending perpendicularly to the bottom surface of the bracket, wherein the bracket is configured to be mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB) such that a bottom surface of the bracket is coupled to a top surface of the PCB, wherein the at least two protrusions each include a conductive lead configured to be coupled to a top surface of the PCB, wherein the conductive leads of the at least two protrusions extend laterally from the bracket, and wherein when the key switch is triggered, a conductive path is closed, the conductive path leading from the key switch to the bracket and laterally from the bracket to the top surface of the PCB via the conductive lead, and Wherein, the bracket further includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) pin, and the pin is configured to couple the ESD to a ground plane of the PCB.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein: The bracket is configured to cover only a portion of a bottom surface of the key switch when coupled to the key switch.

4. A system comprising: a printed circuit board (PCB), the printed circuit board comprising a top surface; A support, comprising: a top surface configured to receive and couple to a key switch; and a bottom surface, the bottom surface comprising at least two protrusions, the at least two protrusions extending perpendicularly to the bottom surface of the bracket, wherein the bracket is configured to be mounted to the PCB such that a bottom surface of the bracket is coupled to a top surface of the PCB, wherein the at least two protrusions each include a conductive lead coupled to the top surface of the PCB, and Wherein, the bracket further includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) pin, and the pin is configured to couple the ESD to a ground plane of the PCB.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The conductive leads are soldered to the PCB via a reflow soldering process.

6. The system according to claim 4, wherein: When the bracket is mounted to the PCB, at least two protrusions of the bracket extend at least partially through the PCB.

7. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The bracket is configured to cover only a portion of a bottom surface of the key switch when coupled to the key switch.

8. The system of claim 7, further comprising an LED mounted to the top surface of the PCB laterally adjacent to the bracket and at a location below the key switch not covered by the bracket.

9. The system of claim 4, further comprising a top plate configured to provide structural support for the key switch.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein: The top plate is configured to receive a clip from the key switch that engages the top plate when the key switch is coupled to the bracket.

11. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The PCB includes at least two holes configured to receive the two protrusions from the bracket when the bracket is coupled to the top surface of the PCB.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein: The top surface of the bracket includes one or more holes or recesses configured to receive one or more protrusions from the key switch.

13. A system comprising: a printed circuit board (PCB), the printed circuit board comprising a top surface; A plurality of brackets, each of the plurality of brackets comprising: a top surface configured to receive and couple to a corresponding key switch of the plurality of key switches; and a bottom surface, the bottom surface comprising at least two protrusions extending perpendicularly to the bottom surface of the corresponding bracket, and each bracket comprising a conductive lead coupled to the top surface of the PCB and extending laterally from the bracket at an angle generally defined by a planar surface of the top surface and a planar surface of the bottom surface of the bracket, wherein each of the plurality of brackets is configured to be mounted to the PCB such that the bottom surface of each of the plurality of brackets is coupled to a corresponding location on the top surface of the PCB, and Wherein, each of the plurality of brackets further comprises an electrostatic discharge (ESD) pin, wherein the pin is configured to couple the ESD to a ground plane of the PCB.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein: The at least two protrusions each include a conductive lead coupled to a top surface of the PCB.

15. The system of claim 13, further comprising a top plate configured to provide structural support for each of the plurality of key switches, wherein The top plate is configured to receive a clip from each of the plurality of key switches engaged with the top plate when the plurality of key switches are coupled to their respective brackets.

16. The system of claim 13, wherein: The PCB includes at least two holes configured to receive the two protrusions from the bracket when the bracket is coupled to the top surface of the PCB.

17. The system of claim 13, wherein: The bracket is configured to cover only a portion of a bottom surface of the key switch when coupled to the key switch.

18. The system of claim 17, further comprising a plurality of LEDs mounted to the top surface of the PCB, each of the plurality of LEDs being laterally adjacent to a corresponding bracket of the plurality of brackets and mounted at a position below a corresponding key switch that is not covered by the corresponding bracket.

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