Key and key connecting assembly thereof

Abstract

The application discloses a key and a key connecting assembly thereof. The key connecting assembly comprises a first support, at least one first rotating shaft and a bottom plate. The first support comprises a first bottom plate section, and the at least one first rotating shaft is arranged on the first bottom plate section. The at least one first rotating shaft has a first arc portion and a first taper portion arranged reversely, and the first arc portion is higher than the first taper portion. The bottom plate comprises a first holding portion and a second holding portion connected to the first rotating shaft of the first support. The first holding portion and the second holding portion are dislocated to each other along the axial direction and the radial direction of the first rotating shaft, and are arranged on opposite sides of the first rotating shaft respectively. The second holding portion has a second hook abutting against the first arc portion of the first rotating shaft, the first holding portion has a first hook abutting against the first taper portion of the first rotating shaft, and the lower edge of the second hook is higher than the lower edge of the first hook. The application can consider the factors of connecting strength, prevention of falling out and reduction of assembly deformation, so as to achieve the purposes of automatic vertical assembly and improvement of production capacity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a button and a button connection assembly thereof. Background Technology

[0002] A key typically comprises a keycap, a lifting mechanism, and a base plate. In automated assembly, the lifting mechanism must first be assembled and connected to the base plate, and then the keycap is assembled and connected to the lifting mechanism on the base plate, thus connecting the lifting mechanism between the keycap and the base plate. However, the automated assembly of the lifting mechanism involves various design requirements and complex variables, such as the tensile force between the lifting mechanism and the base plate, preventing the lifting mechanism from detaching, and preventing structural damage and deformation. These factors all affect key strength, key operation, and the design of automated assembly actions and processes, as well as assembly time and production capacity. Therefore, how to propose a suitable key design to improve upon these issues is an important topic for those in the field. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of the problems in the prior art, the present invention provides a button connection component to solve the above problems.

[0004] Therefore, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a button connection assembly, which includes: a first bracket including a first base plate segment; a first rotating shaft located on the first base plate segment, the first rotating shaft having a first arc portion and a first conical portion arranged in opposite directions, and the first arc portion being higher than the first conical portion; and a base plate including a first receiving portion and a second receiving portion, the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion being connected to the first rotating shaft together, the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion being offset from each other along the axial and radial directions of the first rotating shaft, and respectively located on opposite sides of the first rotating shaft; wherein, the second receiving portion has a second hook, the second hook being adjacent to the first arc portion of the first rotating shaft, the first receiving portion having a first hook, the first hook being adjacent to the first conical portion of the first rotating shaft, and the lower edge of the second hook being higher than the lower edge of the first hook.

[0005] As an optional technical solution, when the first bracket is lying flat, the first arc portion of the first rotating shaft enters at least partially into the space below the second hook of the second receiving portion, but the first cone portion of the first rotating shaft does not enter the space below the first hook of the first receiving portion.

[0006] As an optional technical solution, the hardness of the first receiving part and the hardness of the second receiving part of the base plate are greater than the hardness of the first rotating shaft.

[0007] As an optional technical solution, a hollow area is formed between the first receiving part and the second receiving part, and at least part of the first rotating shaft is accommodated in the hollow area.

[0008] As an optional technical solution, when the first support is standing or lying flat, the second receiving part is adjacent to the first arc portion of the first rotating shaft, the first receiving part is adjacent to the first cone portion of the first rotating shaft, and the first arc portion is higher than the first cone portion.

[0009] As an optional technical solution, the stiffness of the first receiving part is greater than that of the second receiving part.

[0010] As an optional technical solution, the base plate also includes a third receiving part, and the button connection assembly also includes a second bracket, the second bracket being pivotally connected to the first bracket, the second bracket including a second base plate segment, a second rotating shaft located on the second base plate segment, the second rotating shaft being able to slide rotatably as the second bracket stands or lies flat, and being restricted by the third receiving part.

[0011] As an optional technical solution, the stiffness of the first receiving part is greater than that of the third receiving part.

[0012] As an optional technical solution, the horizontal outer diameter of the first rotating shaft is greater than the hook-to-hook distance between the first hook and the second hook.

[0013] As an optional technical solution, the first rotating shaft can rotate between the first receiving part and the second receiving part without slipping, whether the first support is standing or lying flat.

[0014] As an optional technical solution, the first bracket also includes a first keycap segment, which is spaced apart from and connected to the first base plate segment.

[0015] As an optional technical solution, the first hook and the second hook extend toward each other.

[0016] As an optional technical solution, the first cone portion of the first rotating shaft has an abutting surface; when the first bracket is in a flat position, the abutting surface abuts against the lower edge of the first hook.

[0017] As an optional technical solution, the first cone portion of the first rotating shaft has an abutting surface; when the first bracket is in a standing state, the abutting surface separates from the lower edge of the first hook.

[0018] As an optional technical solution, the base plate has a through hole, the first receiving part has a third distance relative to the edge of the through hole, and the second receiving part has a fourth distance relative to the edge of the through hole, the third distance and the fourth distance are different.

[0019] As an optional technical solution, the base plate has a through hole, and the base plate also includes a first extension and a second extension, the first extension and the second extension extending from the through hole edge; the first receiving part is connected to the first extension, and the second receiving part is connected to the second extension; the length of the first extension is different from the length of the second extension.

[0020] The present invention also provides a button, which includes a keycap, a circuit board and the aforementioned button connection assembly, wherein the circuit board is located below the keycap and the first bracket connects the keycap and the base plate.

[0021] The button of the present invention may include at least a keycap, a circuit board, and a button connection structure. The button connection structure includes a lifting mechanism and a base plate. The base plate includes a first receiving portion, a second receiving portion, and a third receiving portion separately configured, with the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion offset (e.g., offset along the Y and X directions). This allows the lifting mechanism to be assembled onto the base plate in a substantially translational manner. The lifting mechanism may further include a first rotating shaft and a second rotating shaft, with the first rotating shaft pivotally connected between the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion. The lifting mechanism may also include a second rotating shaft located on one side of the third receiving portion. The first hook of the first receiving portion and the second hook of the second receiving portion may extend relative to each other in the X direction, while the extension direction of the third hook of the third receiving portion may be the same as the extension direction of the second hook of the second receiving portion. For example, the first hook of the first receiving portion may extend in the -X direction, the second hook of the second receiving portion may extend in the +X direction, and the third hook of the third receiving portion may extend in the +X direction. Thus, when the lifting mechanism is assembled on the base plate, the first rotating shaft of the lifting mechanism is stopped by the first hook and the second hook, and the second rotating shaft is stopped by the third hook plate, so that the lifting mechanism and the base plate are not easily separated.

[0022] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments, but this is not intended to limit the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 A perspective view of the button according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0024] Figure 2 Draw Figure 1 An exploded view of the buttons.

[0025] Figure 3A Draw Figure 1 A top view of the keys (keycaps not shown).

[0026] Figure 3B Draw Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of the key (with illustrated keycaps) along direction 3B-3B'.

[0027] Figure 4 Draw Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of the lifting mechanism in the pressed state.

[0028] Figure 5A Draw Figure 2 Top view of the base plate.

[0029] Figure 5B Draw Figure 5A A schematic diagram of the unfolded base plate. Detailed Implementation

[0030] To provide a further understanding of the purpose, structure, features, and functions of the present invention, detailed descriptions are provided below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0031] Please refer to Figures 1-4 , Figure 1 A perspective view of the button 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 2 Draw Figure 1 An exploded view of button 100. Figure 3A Draw Figure 1 A top view of key 100 (keycap 110 not shown), and Figure 3B Draw Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of key 100 (with illustrated keycap 110) along direction 3B-3B' (in the released state). Figure 4 Draw Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of the lifting mechanism in the pressed state.

[0032] like Figures 1-2 As shown, the key 100 includes a keycap 110, a lifting mechanism 120, a base plate 130, and a circuit board 140. (As...) Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the lifting mechanism 120 includes a first bracket 120A and a second bracket 120B, which are rectangular frames surrounding each other. The first bracket 120A includes a first base plate segment 120A1, and at least one first pivot 121 is located on the first base plate segment 120A1. The axial direction of the first pivot 121 extends along the Y direction. The base plate 130 includes at least one first receiving portion 131 and at least one second receiving portion 132, which are upright and separately arranged. Each first receiving portion 131 and the corresponding second receiving portion 132 are offset and misaligned with each other along the Y direction. The lifting mechanism 120 is movably connected between the keycap 110 and the base plate 130 by its brackets 120A / 120B. The first receiving portion 131 and the second receiving portion 132 are also offset along the X direction (e.g., ...). Figure 3BAs shown), a three-dimensional hollow area SP is formed between the first receiving part 131 and the second receiving part 132, so that the first rotating shaft 121 can be assembled (fastened) to the hollow area SP between the first receiving part 131 and the second receiving part 132 along the -Z direction, and the first receiving part 131 and the second receiving part 132 are respectively located on opposite sides of the first rotating shaft 121 (as shown). Figure 3B As shown, misalignment along the X direction also means radial misalignment along the first pivot 121. In other words, the first receiving part 131 and the second receiving part 132 are misaligned relative to each other along the axial (Y direction) and radial (X direction) of the first pivot 121, so that the first receiving part 131 and the second receiving part 132 are located on opposite sides of the first pivot 121 after assembly. In the figure, the Z direction is the actuation direction of the keycap 110 (or key), the -Z direction is, for example, the pressing direction of the keycap 110, the +Z direction is, for example, the rising direction of the keycap 110, and the X and Y directions are perpendicular to each other and both the X and Y directions are perpendicular to the Z direction.

[0033] like Figure 3B As shown, the lifting mechanism 120 further includes at least one second pivot 122, which is located on the second base plate segment 120B1 of the second bracket 120B. Meanwhile, the base plate 130 further includes at least one third receiving portion 133, to which the second pivot 122 is slidably pivotally connected. The third receiving portion 133 includes a connected third upright section 1331 and a third hook 1332. The third upright section 1331 extends along the +Z direction (i.e., the upward direction of the keycap 110), and the third hook 1332 extends from the third upright section 1331 along the X direction. When the second pivot 122 is engaged with the third receiving portion 133, the second pivot 122 is stopped by the third hook 1332, preventing the lifting mechanism 120 from easily separating from the base plate 130.

[0034] The term "vertical assembly" in this invention refers to the lifting mechanism 120's supports 120A and 120B being in a flat, retracted state (e.g., ...). Figure 4 The overall plane is roughly horizontal. The pair of brackets 120A and 120B of the lifting mechanism 120 are assembled onto the base plate 130 with the assembly angle and trajectory approximately perpendicular to the base plate 130. Then, the keycap 110 is installed onto the lifting mechanism 120. The following explanation assumes that the hardness of the connecting parts of the lifting mechanism 120 is less than the hardness of the connecting parts of the base plate 130. For example, the lifting mechanism 120 may be made of a single piece of plastic, while the base plate 130 may be made of a single piece of metal.

[0035] To achieve automated vertical assembly and increase productivity while considering factors such as the connection strength between the lifting mechanism 120 and the base plate 130, preventing the lifting mechanism from detaching, reducing assembly damage and deformation, and minimizing connection gaps, the key and key connection components disclosed in the various embodiments of this invention mainly cover multiple design concepts. If a larger assembly span (such as the hook offset W3) is chosen to prevent the lifting mechanism from detaching, or if the connection part of the lifting mechanism 120 is required to be inserted into the space below the hook-shaped connection part of the base plate 130, vertical assembly will result in a large amount of assembly interference from the lifting mechanism 120, leading to severe assembly damage or irreversible deformation, and further causing the keycap 110 height control to lose precision. Therefore, in the following embodiments, in the two hook-shaped connection parts (first receiving part 131 and third receiving part 133) constituting the assembly span (hook offset W3) of the base plate 130, the vertical surface of the first hook 1312 of the first receiving part 131 is increased to reduce the space below. In other words, assuming the keycaps have the same preset height (i.e., the keys have the same thickness), the height limiting span W2 will not be the reverse vertical surface (first vertical surface 1311a and third vertical surface 1331a) of the space below the two hook-shaped connecting parts (first receiving part 131 and third receiving part 133); instead, the height limiting span W2 will be changed to the vertical surface (third vertical surface 1331a) of the hook-shaped connecting part (first hook 1312 of first receiving part 131) extending downwards to the other side of the hook-shaped connecting part (third vertical section 1331 of third receiving part 133). In this way, the distance between the two hook-shaped connecting parts (first receiving part 131 and third receiving part 133) of the base plate 130 is smaller, which can reduce assembly interference, reduce assembly damage to the connecting parts (first pivot 121 and second pivot 122) of the lifting mechanism 120, and improve the height control accuracy of the keycap 110.

[0036] Secondly, since the first pivot 121 of the lifting mechanism 120 is not engaged in the space below the first hook 1312 of the first receiving part 131, the anti-disengagement mechanism needs to be readjusted. For example... Figure 3BAs shown, the first receiving portion 131 includes a first upright section 1311 and a first hook 1312 connected together. The first upright section 1311 extends along the +Z direction, and the first hook 1312 has a first hook surface 1312a. The first hook surface 1312a extends downward in the -Z direction, making the lower edge 1312s of the first hook 1312 lower, so as to significantly reduce the space below the first hook 1312 and also significantly reduce the proportion of the first pivot 121 that can enter the space below the first hook 1312. For example, the lower edge 1312s of the first hook 1312 is designed to be lower than the height of the center point of the first pivot 121. The second receiving portion 132 includes a second upright section 1321 and a second hook 1322 connected together. The second upright section 1321 extends along the +Z direction (i.e., the upward direction of the keycap 110). The first hook 1312 and the second hook 1322 extend in opposite directions, that is, they extend in directions that are closer to each other. For example, in this embodiment, the first hook 1312 and the second hook 1322 extend opposite to each other in the X direction. Specifically, the first hook 1312 extends from the first upright segment 1311 in the -X direction, while the second hook 1322 extends from the second upright segment 1321 in the +X direction. The first rotating shaft 121 has a first arcuate portion 121a and a first conical portion 121b arranged in opposite directions (e.g., ...). Figure 3B The first rotating shaft 121 radial section is shown. The second hook 1322 of the second receiving part 132 is adjacent to the first arc portion 121a of the first rotating shaft 121, and the first hook 1312 of the first receiving part 131 is adjacent to the first cone portion 121b of the first rotating shaft 121. Regardless of whether the lifting mechanism 120 / first support 120A is in a lying position (keycap 110 is in the lowest pressed position) or standing position (keycap 110 is in the highest released position), the first arc portion 121a is higher than the first cone portion 121b. This ensures that the first arc portion 121a with a larger outer diameter is on top and the first cone portion 121b with a smaller outer diameter is on the bottom, and the first arc portion 121a with a larger outer diameter is more difficult to disengage from between the first hook 1312 and the second hook 1322. In this embodiment, the extension direction of the third hook 1332 of the third receiving part 133 can be the same as the extension direction of the second hook 1322 of the second receiving part 132, both extending along the +X direction. Thus, the extension direction of the third hook 1332 of the third receiving part 133 is opposite to the extension direction of the first hook 1312 of the first receiving part 131.

[0037] Furthermore, in the +Z direction, the lower edge of the second hook 1322 is higher than the lower edge of the first hook 1312, resulting in a larger space below the second hook 1322. Consequently, a significant portion of the first arc portion 121a on the left side of the first rotating shaft 121 enters the space below the second hook 132 of the second receiving portion 132, thus restricting the first rotating shaft 121. Additionally, as... Figure 3BAs shown, the horizontal outer diameter D1 of the first rotating shaft 121 in a direction (e.g., the X direction) in the pressed or released state is greater than the hook-to-hook distance W1 between the first hook 1312 and the second hook 1322 (the distance between the first hook 1312 and the second hook 1322 in the same direction (e.g., the X direction)). Thus, the first rotating shaft 121 can be stably clamped between the second hook 1322 of the second receiving portion 132 and the first hook 1312 of the first receiving portion 131, preventing the first rotating shaft 121 from easily disengaging in any state. When the first bracket 120A is lying flat, that is, in the pressed state, the first arcuate portion 121a of the first rotating shaft 121 at least partially enters the space below the second hook 1322 of the second receiving portion 132, but the first conical portion 121b of the first rotating shaft 121 does not enter the space below the first hook 1312 of the first receiving portion 131.

[0038] In assembly, the first rotating shaft 121 and the second rotating shaft 122 can be simultaneously fastened to the base plate 130 along the -Z direction (translational). That is, during the assembly process, the lifting mechanism 120 does not need to go through the two steps of tilting one side and rotating to fasten the other side before it can be assembled onto the base plate 130. Therefore, this embodiment can reduce the assembly time of the lifting mechanism 120 and the base plate 130. The base plate 130 is, for example, a sheet metal part, which is flexible (deformable), and the lifting mechanism 120 is also flexible (deformable). Therefore, as long as appropriate pressure is applied, the first rotating shaft 121 of the lifting mechanism 120 can be fastened between the first receiving part 131 and the second receiving part 132 of the base plate 130, and the second rotating shaft 122 of the lifting mechanism 120 can be fastened to the third receiving part 133.

[0039] like Figure 3B As shown, the horizontal outer diameter D1 of the first rotating shaft 121 in one direction (e.g., the X direction) in the pressed or released state is greater than the hook-to-hook distance W1 between the first hook 1312 and the second hook 1322 in the same direction (e.g., the X direction). Thus, after the lifting mechanism 120 and the base plate 130 are assembled, the lifting mechanism 120 and the base plate 130 will not easily separate in the +Z direction in either the pressed or released state. Furthermore, the low-point axial distance D2 between the first rotating shaft 121 and the second rotating shaft 122 in one direction (e.g., the X direction) is less than the hook-to-hook distance W3 between the first hook 1312 and the third hook 1332 in the same direction (e.g., the X direction). Thus, the lifting mechanism 120 and the base plate 130 will not easily separate in the +Z direction.

[0040] like Figure 3B As shown, the lifting mechanism 120 in this embodiment is, for example, a scissor-type lifting mechanism, but it can also be other types of lifting mechanisms. Figure 2 , Figure 3A and Figure 3BAs shown, the lifting mechanism 120 includes a first bracket 120A and a second bracket 120B that are pivotally connected internally and externally. The first bracket 120A includes a first base plate segment 120A1 and a first keycap segment 120A2 that are spaced apart and connected to each other, and both the first base plate segment 120A1 and the first keycap segment 120A2 extend along the Y direction. The first bracket 120A is connected to the base plate 130 via the first base plate segment 120A1 and to the keycap 110 via the first keycap segment 120A2. The first bracket 120A also includes two relatively parallel first side arms 120A3, which are respectively connected to the two ends of the first base plate segment 120A1 and the two ends of the first keycap segment 120A2, making the first bracket 120A approximately a rectangular frame. The first support 120A includes the aforementioned first rotating shaft 121, which is located on the first base plate segment 120A1. The axial direction of the first rotating shaft 121 extends along the Y direction. Specifically, one or more first rotating shafts 121 may be provided on the first base plate segment 120A1. The first rotating shaft 121 may be a closed shaft segment or an open shaft. The first rotating shaft 121 is provided on both sides (or the central section) of the first base plate segment 120A1. The second support 120B includes a second base plate segment 120B1 and a second keycap segment 120B2 that are approximately parallel and opposite to each other. The second base plate segment 120B1 and the second keycap segment 120B2 are spaced apart and connected to each other, and both extend along the Y direction. The second support 120B is connected to the base plate 130 via its second base plate segment 120B1, and to the keycap 110 via its second keycap segment 120B2. The second support 120B also includes two relatively parallel second side arms 120B3, which are respectively connected to both ends of the second base plate segment 120B1 and both ends of the second keycap segment 120B2, making the second support 120B approximately a rectangular frame. The second support 120B includes the aforementioned second pivot 122, which is disposed on the second base plate segment 120B1, and the axial direction of the second pivot 122 also extends along the Y direction. The base plate 130 includes the aforementioned third receiving portion 133. The pivot point of the first support 120A and the second support 120B is located between the first side arm 120A3 and the second side arm 120B3. When the keycap 110 is pressed, the first support 120A and the second support 120B rotate relative to each other around the pivot point and slide partially, so that the keycap 110 can be lowered.Specifically, the first base plate segment 120A1 of the first support 120A is a rotating segment, that is, under the controllable minimum component gap, the first rotating shaft 121 is a rotating axis. When the keycap 110 is raised or lowered and the first support 120A / second support 120B is standing or lying flat, the first rotating shaft 121 only rotates between the first receiving part 131 and the second receiving part 132 with almost no sliding. In contrast, the second base plate segment 120B1 of the second support 120B is a sliding segment, and its second rotating shaft 122 is a sliding axis. When the keycap 110 is raised or lowered and the first support 120A / second support 120B is standing or lying flat, the second rotating shaft 122 can slide rotatably within the structural limitation range of the third receiving part 133.

[0041] In other derivative embodiments, the third receiving portion 133 is replaced by a second pair of first receiving portions 131 and second receiving portions 132, and the second pivot 122 is restricted between the second pair of first receiving portions 131 and second receiving portions 132. That is, when the keycap 110 is raised or lowered and the first support 120A / second support 120B is standing or lying flat, the first pivot 121 and the second pivot 122 rotate between their respective dedicated pair of first receiving portions 131 and second receiving portions 132 with almost no slippage. In this embodiment, since the first base plate segment 120A1 and the second base plate segment 120B1 are both rotating segments, the first keycap segment 120A2 and the second keycap segment 120B2 should be designed as sliding segments.

[0042] like Figure 3B As shown, a circuit board 140 (e.g., a membrane switch layer) is disposed between the base plate 130 and the keycap 110. When the keycap 110 is lowered, an elastic element (not shown) located between the keycap 110 and the circuit board 140 triggers the switch (not shown) of the circuit board 140, causing the switch to generate a trigger signal (not shown). Conductive pads (not shown) electrically connected to the circuit board 140 generate key signals and input text / symbols or perform corresponding functions accordingly.

[0043] like Figure 3B As shown, the first tapered portion 121b of the first rotating shaft 121 has an abutment surface 121s. When the lifting mechanism 120 is in the released state or the first support 120A / second support 120B is in the standing state, as... Figure 3B In the indicated state, the abutment surface 121s abuts against the lower edge 1312s of the first latch 1312. At this time, the axial distance D2' between the high points of the first rotating shaft 121 and the second rotating shaft 122 approaches the height limit span W2. Thus, in the released state, the first rotating shaft 121 can be stopped by the first latch 1312 and will not easily separate from the first latch 1312. Conversely, when the lifting mechanism 120 is in the pressed state or the first bracket 120A / second bracket 120B is in the lying state, the abutment surface 121s separates from the lower edge of the first latch 1312, as... Figure 4 As shown. In a derivative embodiment, when the lifting mechanism 120 is in the released state, at least a portion of the lower edge 1312s of the first latch 1312 abuts against the abutment surface 121s (not shown) of the first cone 121b, thereby restricting further rotation of the first pivot 121. This limits the abutment surface 121s to be confined by the lower edge 1312s, allowing for height control of the keycap 110 even in the released state. This design is because during vertical interference assembly, both the first pivot 121 and the second pivot 122 may experience gaps due to wear from the first latch 1312 and the third latch 1332. If the lower edge 1312s of the first latch 1312 also restricts the rotation of the first pivot 121, it can help improve the accuracy of height control of the keycap 110 in the released state. Figure 3B As shown, the second rotating shaft 122 has an abutment surface 122s. When the lifting mechanism 120 is in the released state, the abutment surface 122s abuts against the lower edge 1332s of the third hook 1332. Thus, in the released state, the second rotating shaft 122 is stopped by the third hook 1332 and will not easily separate from the third hook 1332. Since the base plate 130 and the lifting mechanism 120 are flexible (deformable), a tension exceeding the preset value must be applied to separate the lifting mechanism 120 from the base plate 130. In summary, in the released state, since the first rotating shaft 121 is stopped by the first hook 1312 and the second rotating shaft 122 is stopped by the third hook 1332, the base plate 130 and the lifting mechanism 120 will not easily separate.

[0044] Please refer to Figure 4 Its illustration Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of the lifting mechanism 120 in the pressed state. When the lifting mechanism 120 changes from the released state to the pressed state, the first rotating shaft 121 rotates, causing the abutment surface 121s to separate from the lower edge 1312s of the first latch 1312. Similarly, when the lifting mechanism 120 changes from the released state to the pressed state, the second rotating shaft 122 rotates, causing the abutment surface 122s of the second rotating shaft 122 to separate from the lower edge 1332s of the third latch 1332. Figure 3B , Figure 4 As shown, the base plate 130 further includes a base plate body 130A (the base plate body 130A is also indicated in...). Figure 2 The first upright section 1311 of the first receiving portion 131, the second upright section 1321 of the second receiving portion 132, and the third upright section 1331 of the third receiving portion 133 are connected to the base plate body 130A. In one embodiment, the first receiving portion 131, the second receiving portion 132, and the third receiving portion 133 are integrally formed with the base plate body 130A, for example. In terms of material, the base plate 130 is made of metal, such as iron, aluminum, copper, or a combination thereof.

[0045] like Figure 4 As shown, the first height H1 of the lower edge 1312s of the first hook 1312 of the first receiving part 131 relative to the base plate body 130A (specifically, for example, relative to the lower surface of the base plate body 130A) is different from the second height H2 of the lower edge 1322s of the second hook 1322 of the second receiving part 132 relative to the base plate body 130A (specifically, for example, relative to the lower surface of the base plate body 130A). For example, the first height H1 is smaller than the second height H2. Thus, when the lifting mechanism 120 moves from the pressed state (e.g., ... Figure 4 The state shown changes to the release state (as indicated). Figure 3B During the process (as shown in the diagram)... Figure 4 The abutment surface 121s of the first rotating shaft 121 rotates in a direction close to the lower edge 1312s of the first hook 1312 (e.g., counterclockwise) until the abutment surface 121s abuts against the lower edge 1312s of the first hook 1312. Simultaneously, Figure 4 The abutment surface 122s of the second rotating shaft 122 rotates toward the lower edge 1332s of the third hook 1332 (e.g., counterclockwise) until the abutment surface 122s abuts against the lower edge 1332s. When the abutment surface 121s abuts against the lower edge 1312s and / or the abutment surface 122s abuts against the lower edge 1332s, the lifting mechanism 120 and the keycap 110 stop rising.

[0046] To further reduce structural damage to the support 120A / 120B of the lifting structure 120 during vertical interference assembly, the recoverable deformation elasticity of the connection part of the base plate 130 during assembly can be further improved. Please refer to section [reference needed]. Figure 5A and Figure 5B , Figure 5A Draw Figure 2 The top view of the base plate 130, and Figure 5B Draw Figure 5A The diagram shows the unfolded view of the base plate 130 (before bending). The base plate 130 has at least one through hole 130a. The third distance H3 of the first receiving portion 131 relative to the through hole edge 130e of the through hole 130a is different from the fourth distance H4 of the second receiving portion 132 relative to the through hole edge 130e. The stiffness of the first receiving portion 131 and / or the second receiving portion 132 can be determined by the design of the third distance H3 and / or the fourth distance H4. Because the first receiving portion 131 and / or the second receiving portion 132 has appropriate stiffness (deformability), the first rotating shaft 121 can be engaged between the first receiving portion 131 and the second receiving portion 132 under appropriate pressure.

[0047] like Figure 5B As shown, the base plate 130 is, for example, a sheet metal part. In terms of manufacturing process, the sheet metal can be formed using a stamping process, such as... Figure 5BThe sheet metal 130' shown can then be processed using, for example, a bending method. Figure 5B The 130' plate is formed Figure 5A The first receiving part 131, the second receiving part 132, and the third receiving part 133 are shown. Figure 5B As shown, plate 130' further includes a first extension 134 and a second extension 135, which extend from the through-hole edge 130e of the through-hole 130a. A first receiving portion 131 is connected to the first extension 134, and a second receiving portion 132 is connected to the second extension 135. The free side length L1 of the first extension 134 is different from the free side length L2 of the second extension 135. The third distance H3 and the fourth distance H4 can be determined based on the free side length L1 of the first extension 134 and the free side length L2 of the second extension 135. In addition, a third receiving portion 133 can be connected to a third extension 136, and the third extension 136 has a free side length L3. The free side length L1 of the first extension 134, the free side length L2 of the second extension 135, and the free side length L3 of the third extension 136 determine the stiffness of the first receiving portion 131, the second receiving portion 132, and the third receiving portion 133. In one embodiment, for example, the free side lengths L1 / L2 / L3 of the first extension 134 / second extension 135 / third extension 136 are designed such that L2>L1 and L3>L1, that is, the stiffness of the first receiving portion 131 is greater than the stiffness of the second receiving portion 132, and the stiffness of the first receiving portion 131 is also greater than the stiffness of the third receiving portion 133. Thus, the first receiving part 131, which has the greatest stiffness and the smallest deformability, has the smallest interference (the hook 1312 has almost no interference with the first rotating shaft 121), which can minimize the structural damage to the first rotating shaft 121 during the vertical interference assembly process; as for the effect of preventing dislodgement, it is achieved by the second receiving part 132 / third receiving part 133 with hooks in the same direction, and because the vertical assembly interference is large, the stiffness of the second receiving part 132 / third receiving part 133 is relatively small and the deformability is large.

[0048] Because the free side length L1 of the first extension 134 is different from the free side length L2 of the second extension 135, a hollow area SP is formed between the first receiving portion 131 and the second receiving portion 132 on the base plate 130. This hollow area SP allows a stamping die or a bending die to enter, thereby improving the manufacturability of the base plate 130. Furthermore, after the first receiving portion 131 and the second receiving portion 132 are bent, a portion of the hollow area SP remains. Figure 5AThe lower half of the first rotating shaft 121 can be accommodated. If there is still a horizontal thickness of the base plate 130 between the first receiving part 131 and the second receiving part 132 instead of a hollow part, the first rotating shaft 121 can only abut against the upper surface of the base plate 130 and will not be able to descend below the upper surface of the base plate 130. For two designs with the same keycap height (or the same key thickness), if there is a partial cutout area SP between the first receiving part 131 and the second receiving part 132, at least part of the first pivot 121 can be accommodated in the cutout area SP to ensure that the first pivot 121 has a sufficiently thick outer diameter (due to the cutout area SP, the first pivot 121 can be placed between the first receiving part 131, the second receiving part 132 and the lower surface of the base plate 130 in the Z direction, thus ensuring the design size of the first pivot 121); if there is a horizontal thickness of the base plate 130 between the first receiving part 131 and the second receiving part 132, the outer diameter of the first pivot 121 will be too thin, resulting in insufficient strength (due to the absence of the cutout area, the first pivot 121 is placed between the first receiving part 131, the second receiving part 132 and the upper surface of the base plate 130 in the Z direction, thus limiting the design size of the first pivot 121).

[0049] In addition, various embodiments and figures of the present invention also disclose a button connection assembly 102, which includes a first bracket 120A and a base plate 130. The first bracket 120A includes a first base plate segment 120A1, and one or more first rotating shafts 121 are located on the first base plate segment 120A1. The first rotating shaft 121 has a first arc portion 121a and a first conical portion 121b arranged in opposite directions, and in the +Z direction, the first arc portion 121a is higher than the first conical portion 121b. The base plate 130 includes a first receiving portion 131 and a second receiving portion 132. The first receiving portion 131 and the second receiving portion 132 are connected together to the first rotating shaft 121 of the first bracket 120A. The first receiving portion 131 and the second receiving portion 132 are offset from each other along the axial and radial directions of the first rotating shaft 121, and can be located on opposite sides of the first rotating shaft 121 respectively. The second receiving portion 132 has a second hook 1322, which is adjacent to the first arcuate portion 121a of the first rotating shaft 121. The first receiving portion 131 has a first hook 1312, which is adjacent to the first conical portion 121b of the first rotating shaft 121. In the +Z direction, the lower edge 1322s of the second hook 1322 is higher than the lower edge 1312s of the first hook 1312. In another embodiment, the base plate 110 further includes a third receiving portion 133, and the button connection assembly 102 further includes a second bracket 120B, which is pivotally connected to the first bracket 120A. The second bracket 120B includes a second base plate segment 120B1, and at least one second rotating shaft 122 is located on the second base plate segment 120B1. The second rotating shaft 122 stands or lies flat with the second bracket 120B and is rotatably slidable by the restriction of the third receiving portion 133.

[0050] In summary, the buttons in this embodiment of the invention may include at least a keycap, a circuit board, and a button connection structure. The button connection structure includes a lifting mechanism and a base plate. The base plate includes a first receiving portion, a second receiving portion, and a third receiving portion that are separately configured, with the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion being offset (e.g., offset along the Y and X directions). This allows the lifting mechanism to be assembled onto the base plate in a substantially translational manner. The lifting mechanism further includes a first rotating shaft and a second rotating shaft, with the first rotating shaft pivotally connected between the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion. The lifting mechanism may also include a second rotating shaft located on one side of the third receiving portion. The first hook of the first receiving portion and the second hook of the second receiving portion may extend relative to each other in the X direction, while the extension direction of the third hook of the third receiving portion may be the same as the extension direction of the second hook of the second receiving portion. For example, the first hook of the first receiving portion may extend in the -X direction, the second hook of the second receiving portion may extend in the +X direction, and the third hook of the third receiving portion may extend in the +X direction. Thus, when the lifting mechanism is assembled on the base plate, the first rotating shaft of the lifting mechanism is stopped by the first hook and the second hook, and the second rotating shaft is stopped by the third hook plate, so that the lifting mechanism and the base plate are not easily separated.

[0051] Of course, the present invention may have other various embodiments. Without departing from the spirit and essence of the present invention, those skilled in the art can make various corresponding changes and modifications according to the present invention, but these corresponding changes and modifications should all fall within the protection scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A button connection component, characterized in that... Include: The first support includes the first base plate segment; A first rotating shaft, located on the first base plate segment, has a first arc portion and a first conical portion arranged in opposite directions, with the first arc portion higher than the first conical portion; and The base plate includes a plate, a first receiving part and a second receiving part, the first receiving part and the second receiving part are connected to the first rotating shaft, the first receiving part and the second receiving part are offset from each other along the axial and radial directions of the first rotating shaft, and are respectively located on opposite sides of the first rotating shaft; The second receiving part has a second hook, which is adjacent to the first arc portion of the first rotating shaft. The first receiving part has a first hook, which is adjacent to the first conical portion of the first rotating shaft. The lower edge of the second hook is higher than the lower edge of the first hook. The base plate also includes a third receiving part, and the button connection assembly also includes a second bracket, which is pivotally connected to the first bracket. The second bracket includes a second base plate segment, and a second rotating shaft is located on the second base plate segment. The second rotating shaft can slide rotatably as the second bracket stands or lies flat and is restricted by the third receiving part. The plate also includes a first extension, a second extension and a third extension. The first receiving part is connected to the first extension, the second receiving part is connected to the second extension, and the third receiving part is connected to the third extension. The free side length of the second extension is greater than the free side length of the first extension, and the free side length of the third extension is greater than the free side length of the first extension. When the first support is lying flat, the first arc portion of the first rotating shaft enters at least partially into the space below the second hook of the second receiving portion, but the first cone portion of the first rotating shaft does not enter the space below the first hook of the first receiving portion; when the first support is in a standing state, at least a portion of the lower edge of the first hook abuts against the abutting surface of the first cone portion to restrict the rotation of the first rotating shaft.

2. The button connection assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The hardness of the first and second bearing portions of the base plate is greater than the hardness of the first rotating shaft.

3. The button connection assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, A hollow area is formed between the first receiving part and the second receiving part, and at least part of the first rotating shaft is accommodated in the hollow area.

4. The button connection assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the first support is standing or lying flat, the second receiving portion is adjacent to the first arc portion of the first rotating shaft, the first receiving portion is adjacent to the first cone portion of the first rotating shaft, and the first arc portion is higher than the first cone portion.

5. The button connection assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The stiffness of the first receiving part is greater than that of the second receiving part.

6. The button connection assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The force of the first receiving part is greater than that of the third receiving part.

7. The button connection assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The horizontal outer diameter of the first rotating shaft is greater than the hook-to-hook distance between the first hook and the second hook.

8. The button connection assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first pivot rotates between the first support and the second support without slipping, whether the first support is standing or lying flat.

9. The button connection assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first bracket also includes a first keycap segment, which is spaced apart from and connected to the first base plate segment.

10. The button connection assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first hook and the second hook extend toward each other.

11. The button connection assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first cone portion of the first rotating shaft has an abutting surface; when the first bracket is in a flat position, the abutting surface separates from the lower edge of the first hook.

12. The button connection assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first cone portion of the first pivot has an abutting surface; when the first bracket is in a standing position, the abutting surface abuts against the lower edge of the first hook.

13. The button connection assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The base plate has a through hole, the first receiving part has a third distance relative to the edge of the through hole, and the second receiving part has a fourth distance relative to the edge of the through hole, the third distance and the fourth distance are different.

14. The button connection assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The base plate has a through hole, and the base plate also includes a first extension and a second extension, which extend from the edge of the through hole; a first receiving portion is connected to the first extension, and a second receiving portion is connected to the second extension; the length of the first extension is different from the length of the second extension.

15. A button, characterized in that... The invention comprises a keycap, a circuit board, and a key connection assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the circuit board is located below the keycap, and the first bracket connects the keycap to the base plate.

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