Keyboard and electronic devices

Abstract

This application provides a key-type touch keyboard and an electronic device. The key-type touch keyboard includes: a circuit board assembly and a plurality of keys disposed on the circuit board assembly; the circuit board assembly includes touch sensing electrodes, connecting holes, and non-metallic connectors; the touch sensing electrodes define a touch area, and at least some of the keys are located within the touch area; the non-metallic connectors are connected to the connecting holes; each key includes a scissor-switch assembly and a keycap, the scissor-switch assembly being rotatably connected to the keycap and the non-metallic connector respectively. The key-type touch keyboard of this application can solve the problem of poor sensitivity of touch sensing electrodes in the prior art.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of terminal technology, and in particular to a key-type touch keyboard and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] With the explosive growth of portable laptops, smartphones, and tablets, more and more applications require higher precision touch, such as drawing software. Traditional keyboards typically integrate two separate modules for input and touchpad, resulting in a large keyboard size and inconvenience for carrying.

[0003] Some existing keyboards integrate touch functionality into the key input area, and the touch and input functions can be switched to facilitate user touch or input actions, thereby reducing the keyboard's size and achieving miniaturization. This type of keyboard includes a metal substrate, touch-sensing electrodes, scissor-switch pins, and keycaps. The metal substrate supports the touch-sensing circuit board, scissor-switch pins, and keycaps. Metal clips are directly formed on the metal substrate, with the lower end of the scissor-switch pins rotatably connected to the clips and the upper end rotatably connected to the keycaps. The touch-sensing circuit board is located above the metal substrate.

[0004] However, because the touch sensing electrodes set on the metal substrate need to avoid the metal clips, the touch sensing electrodes cannot sense in the avoidance area and can only be compensated by the algorithm. This results in a decrease in the sensitivity of the touch sensing electrodes and affects the user experience of the touch function. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a button-type touch keyboard and an electronic device, which can solve the problem of poor sensitivity of touch sensing electrodes in the prior art.

[0006] The first aspect of this application provides a key-type touch keyboard, including:

[0007] Circuit board assembly and multiple buttons mounted on the circuit board assembly;

[0008] The circuit board assembly includes touch sensing electrodes, connection holes, and non-metallic connectors. The touch sensing electrodes define a touch area, and at least some of the buttons are located within the touch area. The non-metallic connectors are connected to the connection holes.

[0009] The key includes a scissor-switch assembly and a keycap, with the scissor-switch assembly rotatably connected to the keycap and a non-metallic connector, respectively.

[0010] The button-type touch keyboard provided in this application embodiment uses connection holes on the circuit board assembly to connect and fix non-metallic connectors, and the keycaps are connected to the non-metallic connectors via scissor-switch components. On the one hand, since the size of the connection holes only needs to meet predetermined requirements for the connection strength between the non-metallic connectors and the circuit board assembly, and the connection strength requirements between the non-metallic connectors and the circuit board assembly are not high, the size of the connection holes can be set relatively small. On the other hand, the non-metallic connectors have little or no interference with the touch sensing signal. In summary, in this application embodiment, the circuit board assembly replaces the metal substrate in the prior art. The shape of the connection holes and non-metallic connectors on the circuit board assembly has little impact on the design layout of the touch sensing electrodes, thereby allowing the touch sensing electrodes to be designed with a more regular shape, reducing the possibility of decreased touch sensitivity due to irregular shape design of the touch sensing electrodes themselves.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the non-metallic connector includes a first snap-fit ​​portion located on the side of the circuit board assembly facing the keycap, and the scissor-switch assembly is rotatably snapped into the first snap-fit ​​portion. The orthographic projection of the first snap-fit ​​portion on the circuit board assembly overlaps with the orthographic projection of the touch-sensing electrode.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the non-metallic connector further includes a second snap-fit ​​portion located on the side of the circuit board assembly facing away from the keycap, at least a portion of which abuts against the surface of the circuit board assembly facing away from the keycap.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the circuit board assembly includes a circuit board, with touch sensing electrodes and connection holes all disposed on the circuit board. The first latching portion and the second latching portion are located on the upper and lower sides of the circuit board, respectively, and the touch sensing electrodes are disposed to avoid the connection holes.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the circuit board assembly further includes a first backlight assembly located within the touch area and below the button.

[0015] In one possible implementation, when the touch function of the keypad is enabled, the first backlight group is used to emit a first color; when the input function of the keypad is enabled, the first backlight group is used to emit a second color, wherein the first color and the second color are different.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the first backlight assembly includes a backlight, with a backlight located below the keycaps of at least some of the buttons, and touch-sensitive electrodes avoiding the backlight.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the circuit board assembly further includes a second backlight group, which is disposed in the non-touch area. When the touch function of the keypad is enabled, the first and second backlight groups emit different colors in the touch area. When the input function of the keypad is enabled, the first and second backlight groups emit the same color.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the circuit board assembly includes a circuit board and a backlight module. The backlight module includes a light guide plate, which is disposed on the side of the circuit board facing the keycap. Touch sensing electrodes are disposed on the surface of the circuit board facing the light guide plate, and connection holes are disposed on the light guide plate.

[0019] The non-metallic connector also includes a second snap-fit ​​part, with the first snap-fit ​​part and the second snap-fit ​​part located on the upper and lower sides of the light guide plate, respectively.

[0020] In one possible implementation, a touch-sensing electrode is provided on the area of ​​the circuit board corresponding to the connection hole.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the backlight module further includes a light-blocking component that divides the light guide plate into a first area and a second area. The touch area corresponds to the first area. When the touch function of the button-type touch keyboard is enabled, the light emission colors of the first area and the second area are different. When the input function of the button-type touch keyboard is enabled, the light emission colors of the first area and the second area are the same.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the backlight module further includes a light shield located on the side of the light guide plate near the keycap. The light shield has a light-transmitting hole corresponding to the key position, and the projected area of ​​the keycap facing the light shield is larger than the projected area of ​​the light-transmitting hole.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the backlight module further includes a light-emitting unit for guiding incident light onto the light guide plate.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the touch sensing electrodes are disposed on the circuit board of the circuit board assembly by coating, electroplating, etching, or printing processes.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the keypad also includes a wireless communication antenna disposed on the circuit board assembly and located on one side of the touch sensing electrode.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the key further includes an elastic element disposed on the surface of the keycap facing the circuit board assembly, the elastic element being used to provide a restoring force to the keycap.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the circuit board assembly includes a button sensing electrode, and the button further includes a conductive layer disposed on a portion of the elastic member near the circuit board assembly. A capacitor is formed between the button sensing electrode and the conductive layer, and the capacitance value can be changed by moving the elastic member up or down.

[0028] A second aspect of this application provides an electronic device, including: a button-type touch keyboard as described above.

[0029] The electronic device provided in this application includes a key-type touch keyboard. In the key-type touch keyboard, the connection holes on the circuit board assembly can be used to connect and fix non-metallic connectors, and the keycaps are connected to the non-metallic connectors via scissor-switch components. On the one hand, since the size of the connection holes only needs to meet the predetermined requirements for the connection strength between the non-metallic connectors and the circuit board assembly, and the connection strength requirements between the non-metallic connectors and the circuit board assembly are not high, the size of the connection holes can be set to be relatively small; on the other hand, the non-metallic connectors have little or no interference with the touch sensing signal. In summary, in this application embodiment, the circuit board assembly replaces the metal substrate in the prior art. The shape of the connection holes and non-metallic connectors on the circuit board assembly has little impact on the design layout of the touch sensing electrodes, thereby allowing the touch sensing electrodes to be designed with a more regular shape, reducing the possibility of decreased touch sensitivity due to irregular shape design of the touch sensing electrodes themselves. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 A scenario diagram provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 2 This is another scenario illustration provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 3 This is another scenario illustration provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0033] Figure 4 This is another scenario illustration provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a partially exploded view of a button-type touch keyboard provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 6 This is a top view of a key-type touch keyboard provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0036] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a partial cross-sectional view along the AA direction;

[0037] Figure 8A partial top view of a circuit board assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 9 A schematic diagram illustrating the backlight display of the touch area according to an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the connection structure between a circuit board assembly and a wireless communication antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 11 A partial cross-sectional view of a button-type touch keyboard provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 12 A partial top view of a circuit board assembly provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 13 A top view of the key-type touch keyboard provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the connection structure between the circuit board and the touch sensing electrode provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 15 This is a top view of a backlight module provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 16 for Figure 13 A schematic diagram of a partial cross-sectional view along the BB direction;

[0046] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a light-shielding sheet provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0047] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0048] 1. Electronic equipment;

[0049] 2. Display screen;

[0050] 3. Main unit;

[0051] 4. Tablet PC;

[0052] 10. Button-style touch keyboard;

[0053] 20. Circuit board assembly; 20a. Touch area; 20b. Reinforcing plate; 21. Touch sensing electrode; 211. Electrode unit; 22. Connecting hole; 23. Non-metallic connector; 231. First snap-fit ​​part; 232. Second snap-fit ​​part; 233. Connecting part; 24. Circuit board; 25. Adhesive layer; 26. First backlight group; 261. Backlight; 27. Second backlight group; 28. Button sensing electrode; 29. ​​Backlight module; 291. Light guide plate; 291a. First area; 291b. Second area; 292. Light-emitting unit; 293. Light-blocking component; 294. Adhesive component; 295. Light-shielding sheet; 295a. Light-transmitting hole;

[0054] 30. Button; 31. Scissor-switch assembly; 31a. Hinge; 311. Outer scissor-switch; 312. Inner scissor-switch; 32. Keycap; 33. Spring element; 331. Recess; 34. Conductive layer;

[0055] 40. Wireless communication antenna. Detailed Implementation

[0056] This application provides an electronic device 1, which can be a desktop computer, laptop, tablet computer, ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC), handheld computer, walkie-talkie, netbook, POS machine, personal digital assistant (PDA), or other mobile terminal, fixed terminal, or foldable device.

[0057] Figure 1 The three-dimensional structure of an electronic device 1 according to one embodiment is schematically shown. See also Figure 1 As shown, electronic device 1 may include a display screen 2 and a main unit 3. The display screen 2 and the main unit 3 are rotatably connected. For example, the display screen 2 and the main unit 3 may be connected by a hinge; or, the display screen 2 and the main unit 3 may be rotatably connected by a hinge structure; or, in some examples, the display screen 2 and the main unit 3 may be independent devices, for example, the display screen 2 and the main unit 3 may be detachable, with the display screen 2 placed on the main unit 3 during use and the display screen 2 and the main unit 3 separated after use.

[0058] It should be noted that in order to achieve the display effect of the display screen 2, the display screen 2 and the host body 3 are electrically connected. For example, the display screen 2 and the host body 3 can be electrically connected through contacts, or through a flexible printed circuit (FPC), or through wires. In addition, the display screen 2 and the host body 3 can also be wirelessly connected through wireless signals.

[0059] See Figure 1 As shown, to enable input in electronic device 1, electronic device 1 may further include a keypad-type touch keyboard 10. The keypad-type touch keyboard 10 may be mounted on the main unit 3. The keypad-type touch keyboard 10 is electrically connected to the control unit within the main unit 3. The keypad-type touch keyboard 10 serves as an input device for electronic device 1. Users can input characters or operation commands using the keypad-type touch keyboard 10, and can also control cursor movement or perform multi-gesture operations via touch.

[0060] Figure 2 The structure of an electronic device 1 according to another embodiment is schematically shown. In this embodiment, electronic device 1 is a desktop computer. See also... Figure 2 As shown, electronic device 1 may include a display screen 2 and a main unit 3. The display screen 2 and the main unit 3 are each independently configured. The display screen 2 and the main unit 3 are electrically connected via a data cable to achieve the display effect of the display screen 2. A key-type touch keyboard 10 is independently configured and connected to the main unit 3 via a data cable, thus the key-type touch keyboard 10 can serve as an input device for electronic device 1. In some other possible embodiments, the key-type touch keyboard 10 and the main unit 3 are wirelessly connected via a wireless signal (e.g., Bluetooth signal).

[0061] Figure 3 A three-dimensional structure of an electronic device 1 according to another embodiment is schematically shown. See also Figure 3 As shown, electronic device 1 may include a tablet computer 4 and a keypad touch keyboard 10. The tablet computer 4 and the keypad touch keyboard 10 can be independent devices, for example, the tablet computer 4 and the keypad touch keyboard 10 can be detached. When in use, the tablet computer 4 is placed on the keypad touch keyboard 10, and after use, the tablet computer 4 and the keypad touch keyboard 10 can be separated from each other.

[0062] For example, the tablet computer 4 and the keypad 10 can be electrically connected via contacts. Alternatively, the tablet computer 4 and the keypad 10 can be electrically connected via wires. Alternatively, the tablet computer 4 and the keypad 10 can also be wirelessly connected via a wireless signal (e.g., Bluetooth signal). In this embodiment, the keypad 10 can be, for example, […]. Figure 3 The wireless keyboard shown.

[0063] Figure 4 A three-dimensional structure of an electronic device 1 according to another embodiment is schematically shown. See also Figure 4 As shown, the tablet computer 4 and the keypad 10 can be placed at a predetermined distance from each other, and the tablet computer 4 and the keypad 10 can be wirelessly connected via a wireless signal (e.g., Bluetooth signal), allowing the user to adjust the placement of the keypad 10 according to their personal usage habits. In this embodiment, the keypad 10 can be, for example, […]. Figure 4 The wireless keyboard shown.

[0064] In one embodiment, the tablet computer 4 and the keypad 10 can be interconnected via a communication network to enable wireless signal interaction. This communication network can be, but is not limited to, a Wi-Fi hotspot network, a Wi-Fi peer-to-peer (P2P) network, a Bluetooth network, a Zigbee network, or a near field communication (NFC) network, or other short-range communication networks. The keypad 10 can provide input to the electronic device 1, and the electronic device 1 can perform operations in response to the input from the keypad 10.

[0065] In a keyboard with integrated touch functionality, the keyboard mainly includes: a base plate, scissor-switch switches, and keycaps. A latch for rotating with the scissor-switch switches is integrally formed on the base plate. Touch-sensing electrodes are located on the base plate, beneath the keycaps. Since the base plate is a metal sheet, and the latch for connecting the scissor-switch switches is also an integrally formed metal latch, the metal latch can interfere with the signal of the touch-sensing electrodes on the touch-sensing circuit board. Therefore, the touch-sensing electrodes need to avoid the metal latch; that is, in the thickness direction of the keyboard, the projection of the metal latch and the projection of the touch-sensing electrode should not overlap, thus ensuring that the touch-sensing electrodes are not interfered with by the metal latch.

[0066] However, because the touch-sensing electrodes need to avoid these latches and cannot be distributed below the latches, the overall shape of the touch-sensing electrodes is irregular. In the same touch area, there are fewer touch-sensing electrodes. This causes the touch area without touch-sensing electrodes to be unable to execute touch commands or to need to be compensated by algorithms. Ultimately, this results in the keyboard's touch feedback being insensitive and the positioning being inaccurate.

[0067] Based on the aforementioned problems, this application provides a key-type touch keyboard 10. The metal substrate in the keyboard is replaced with a circuit board assembly, and connection holes are formed on the circuit board assembly to fix a portion of a non-metallic connector to the connection holes. A portion of the non-metallic connector forms a snap-fit ​​above the circuit board assembly to engage with a scissor-switch assembly. Keycaps are connected to the non-metallic connector via scissor-switch components. Since the non-metallic connector does not interfere with the touch sensing signal, when the touch sensing electrodes are placed on the circuit board assembly, they only need to avoid the connection holes, but not at the engagement point between the non-metallic connector and the scissor-switch assembly. Thus, the touch sensing electrodes can be placed below the engagement point between the non-metallic connector and the scissor-switch assembly, and the touch sensing electrodes and the non-metallic connector can overlap in the thickness direction of the keyboard. This increases the number of touch sensing electrodes within the same touch area, and the touch sensing electrodes can be designed with a more regular shape, making the touch more sensitive.

[0068] The implementation of the button-type touch keyboard 10 provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below.

[0069] Figure 5 An exploded view of a button-type touch keyboard 10 according to one embodiment is shown schematically. See also Figure 5 As shown, the key-type touch keyboard 10 of this application embodiment includes a circuit board assembly 20 and a plurality of keys 30 disposed on the circuit board assembly 20. The circuit board assembly 20 and the keys 30 are stacked. The circuit board assembly 20 can provide support for each key 30. The types of keys 30 can refer to existing keyboards. For example, the plurality of keys 30 include number keys, function keys (such as the Delete key, Insert key, etc.), and letter keys. According to the size of the keys 30 themselves, they can be divided into single keys and multiple keys. Single keys refer to the square keys 30 at the top of the keyboard, such as the keys 30 corresponding to each letter and each number. Multiple keys are keys 30 other than single keys, such as the space key, the Enter key, and the Shift key.

[0070] The circuit board assembly 20 of this embodiment includes a touch sensing electrode 21, a connection hole 22, and a non-metallic connector 23. The touch sensing electrode 21 defines a touch area 20a, and at least a portion of the plurality of buttons 30 are located within the touch area 20a. The non-metallic connector 23 is connected to the connection hole 22. Each button 30 includes a scissor-switch assembly 31 and a keycap 32. The scissor-switch assembly 31 is rotatably connected to the keycap 32 and the non-metallic connector 23, respectively.

[0071] The touch-sensitive electrode 21 can control the cursor position or execute related operation commands by sensing the user's finger movements. For example, sliding a finger on the touch area 20a moves the cursor. Tapping the touch area 20a once selects an object. Tapping the touch area 20a twice doubles an object. Multiple gesture functions are possible; for example, a three-finger swipe down on the touch area 20a displays the desktop, or a three-finger swipe left returns to the previous page.

[0072] In some embodiments, the touch sensing electrode 21 can be a capacitive sensing electrode. When a user's finger approaches the touch sensing electrode 21, the capacitance value at the corresponding location of the touch sensing electrode 21 changes. Therefore, when the finger performs a related action on the touch area 20a, the capacitance value at the corresponding location of the touch sensing electrode 21 changes, so that the touch sensing electrode 21 can recognize the finger's action based on the change in capacitance value.

[0073] In this embodiment, at least a portion of the buttons 30 are located within the touch area 20a, meaning that this number of buttons 30 are stacked with the touch sensing electrodes 21. When the button-type touch keyboard 10 is in input function mode, the buttons 30 located within the touch area 20a can be pressed normally to perform the input function.

[0074] In some embodiments, Figure 6 The diagram schematically shows a top view of a button-type touch keyboard 10 according to one embodiment. See also... Figure 6 As shown, the button-type touch keyboard 10 also includes left-click and right-click keys. The left-click and right-click keys are located below the touch area 20a. The left-click and right-click keys function similarly to the left and right click buttons on a mouse. The left-click and right-click keys, combined with the touch function, can perform more command operations. The left-click and right-click keys can be set independently on the button-type touch keyboard 10. The left-click and right-click keys are located to the left and right of the space bar, respectively. Alternatively, two keys can be selected on the button-type touch keyboard 10, for example, the letter F key and the letter J key. In touch function mode, the letter F key and the letter J key serve as the left-click and right-click keys, respectively. In input function mode, the letter F key and the letter J key can be used to input the letter F and the letter J, respectively.

[0075] Alternatively, the long, rectangular space bar can be split into two buttons, left and right. In touch mode, these two buttons function as the left and right click keys, respectively. In input mode, both buttons can be used to input the space bar.

[0076] Figure 7 schematically shown Figure 6 Partial cross-sectional view along the AA direction. See also Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the connection hole 22 on the circuit board assembly 20 provides a connection position for the non-metallic connector 23. A portion of the non-metallic connector 23 is located within the connection hole 22. After the non-metallic connector 23 and the circuit board assembly 20 are connected, the non-metallic connector 23 is not easily dislodged from the connection hole 22 when subjected to external force. The circuit board assembly 20 and the non-metallic connector 23 can be independent of each other. In some embodiments, the non-metallic connector 23 can be connected to the circuit board assembly 20 by snap-fitting into the connection hole 22. In other embodiments, the non-metallic connector 23 can be injection molded onto the circuit board assembly 20 using an injection molding process, with a portion of the non-metallic connector 23 located within the connection hole 22, thereby connecting the non-metallic connector 23 to the circuit board assembly 20. Alternatively, the non-metallic connector 23 can be riveted or snap-fitted onto the circuit board assembly 20.

[0077] The key 30 in this embodiment includes a scissor-switch assembly 31 and a keycap 32. The scissor-switch assembly 31 is rotatably connected to the keycap 32 and the non-metallic connector 23. The scissor-switch assembly 31 is disposed below the keycap 32. The scissor-switch assembly 31 is configured to provide good support for the keycap 32, so as to achieve balanced pressing stress on the keycap 32, thereby allowing the user to press the keycap 32 with a fixed pressure at any position on the keycap 32, reducing the possibility of uneven pressure or key jamming.

[0078] In some embodiments, one or more scissor-switch components 31 may be provided below a keycap 32.

[0079] In some embodiments, the scissor-switch assembly 31 includes an outer scissor-switch leg 311 and an inner scissor-switch leg 312. The outer scissor-switch leg 311 and the inner scissor-switch leg 312 are intersected and rotatably connected. The lower ends of each of the outer scissor-switch leg 311 and the inner scissor-switch leg 312 are rotatably connected to the keycap 32. In some examples, both the outer scissor-switch leg 311 and the inner scissor-switch leg 312 may be of a rectangular frame structure.

[0080] In this embodiment, the non-metallic connector 23 can be made of insulating material, such as plastic or rubber. The outer scissor legs 311 and the inner scissor legs 312 can be made of plastic. The mating relationship between the outer scissor legs 311 and the inner scissor legs 312 can refer to the scissor leg structure in the existing key 30. The keycap 32 can be made of plastic.

[0081] The key-type touch keyboard 10 of this application embodiment provides support for the keys 30 through the circuit board assembly 20. The touch sensing electrodes 21 and keys 30 on the circuit board assembly 20 are stacked. The touch sensing electrodes 21 on the circuit board assembly 20 define a touch area 20a, allowing the key-type touch keyboard 10 to input corresponding commands via touch when in touch function mode. When the key-type touch keyboard 10 is in input function mode, the keys 30 can be pressed to perform the input function. Therefore, the key-type touch keyboard 10 of this application embodiment has both touch and input functions. Furthermore, by stacking the touch sensing electrodes 21 and keys 30, a separate area for the touch sensing electrodes 21 is not required on the key-type touch keyboard 10, thereby reducing the overall size of the key-type touch keyboard 10 and achieving miniaturization. In this application embodiment, the connection holes 22 on the circuit board assembly 20 can be used to connect and fix non-metallic connectors 23, and the keycaps 32 are connected to the non-metallic connectors 23 via scissor-switch components 31. On the one hand, since the size of the connecting hole 22 only needs to meet the predetermined requirements for the connection strength between the non-metallic connector 23 and the circuit board assembly 20, and the connection strength requirements between the non-metallic connector 23 and the circuit board assembly 20 are not high, the size of the connecting hole 22 can be set to be relatively small. On the other hand, the non-metallic connector 23 has little or no interference with the touch sensing signal. In summary, in this embodiment, the circuit board assembly 20 replaces the metal substrate in the prior art. The shape of the connecting hole 22 and the non-metallic connector 23 on the circuit board assembly 20 has little impact on the design layout of the touch sensing electrode 21, thereby allowing the touch sensing electrode 21 to be designed with a more regular shape, reducing the possibility that the touch sensitivity will deteriorate due to the irregular shape design of the touch sensing electrode 21.

[0082] It should be noted that the relatively regular shape of the touch sensing electrode 21 refers to the fact that the overall pattern formed by the touch sensing electrode 21 itself is relatively regular and orderly.

[0083] In some embodiments, for each key 30, four non-metallic connectors 23 may be provided below the keycap 32. The four non-metallic connectors 23 are respectively provided at the four corners of the keycap 32. The scissor-switch assembly 31 is rotatably connected to each of the four non-metallic connectors 23. In embodiments where the scissor-switch assembly 31 includes an outer scissor-switch leg 311 and an inner scissor-switch leg 312, the lower end of the outer scissor-switch leg 311 is rotatably connected to two adjacent non-metallic connectors 23, while the lower end of the inner scissor-switch leg 312 is rotatably connected to two other adjacent non-metallic connectors 23.

[0084] In some embodiments, the non-metallic connector 23 includes a first latching portion 231. The first latching portion 231 is located on the side of the circuit board assembly 20 facing the keycap 32. The scissor-switch assembly 31 is rotatably latched to the first latching portion 231. At least a portion of the first latching portion 231 may be disposed above the touch sensing electrode 21. The orthographic projection of the first latching portion 231 on the circuit board assembly 20 overlaps with the orthographic projection of the touch sensing electrode 21. Since the non-metallic connector 23 has little or no interference with the touch sensing signal, the touch sensing electrode 21 does not need to avoid the portion of the first latching portion 231 disposed above the touch sensing electrode 21, thereby effectively reducing the avoidance area of ​​the touch sensing electrode 21.

[0085] The non-metallic connector 23 includes a connecting portion 233. At least a portion of the connecting portion 233 is located within the connecting hole 22. A first snap-fit ​​portion 231 is located outside the connecting hole 22 and is connected to the connecting portion 233.

[0086] In some examples, a gap is formed between the first latching portion 231 and the circuit board assembly 20, and the scissor-leg assembly 31 includes a pivot portion 31a that latches into this gap. The surface of the first latching portion 231 facing the circuit board assembly 20 can be planar, and the pivot portion 31a can abut against the surface of the first latching portion 231 facing the circuit board assembly 20. The small contact area between the pivot portion 31a and the surface of the first latching portion 231 facing the circuit board assembly 20 effectively reduces the rotational resistance of the pivot portion 31a, which is beneficial for reducing the wear rate of the pivot portion 31a.

[0087] In some examples, a slot may be provided on the first latching portion 231, and the scissor-leg assembly 31 includes a pivot portion 31a that engages with the slot. Exemplarily, the first latching portion 231 extends radially along the connection hole 22. The opening of the slot on the first latching portion 231 is located on the surface of the first latching portion 231 facing the circuit board assembly 20.

[0088] In some embodiments, the non-metallic connector 23 further includes a second latching portion 232. The second latching portion 232 is located on the side of the circuit board assembly 20 opposite to the keycap 32. The second latching portion 232 protrudes from the surface of the circuit board assembly 20 opposite to the keycap 32. At least a portion of the second latching portion 232 abuts against the surface of the circuit board assembly 20 opposite to the keycap 32. The second latching portion 232 can improve the connection stability and reliability between the non-metallic connector 23 and the circuit board assembly 20. Since the second latching portion 232 abuts against the surface of the circuit board assembly 20 opposite to the keycap 32, the second latching portion 232 plays a restraining and limiting role. Therefore, when the first latching portion 231 is subjected to the upward pulling force of the scissor-leg assembly 31, the non-metallic connector 23 is not easily dislodged from the connection hole 22 and separated from the circuit board assembly 20.

[0089] In some examples, the second latching portion 232 extends radially along the connecting hole 22. The radial dimensions of the first latching portion 231 and the second latching portion 232 are larger than the maximum radial dimension of the connecting hole 22, and the first latching portion 231 and the second latching portion 232 can respectively cover the connecting hole 22. The first latching portion 231 and the second latching portion 232 are respectively connected to the upper end and the lower end of the connecting portion 233.

[0090] In some examples, the second snap-fit ​​portion 232 extends radially along the connecting hole 22. The first snap-fit ​​portion 231 and the second snap-fit ​​portion 232 may extend in the same direction, that is, both the first snap-fit ​​portion 231 and the second snap-fit ​​portion 232 extend in the same direction. The first snap-fit ​​portion 231 and the second snap-fit ​​portion 232 are respectively connected to the upper end and the lower end of the connecting portion 233.

[0091] Figure 8 A schematic top view of a circuit board assembly 20 according to one embodiment is shown. See also Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the circuit board assembly 20 includes a circuit board 24. The circuit board 24 provides support for the button 30. Touch sensing electrodes 21 and connection holes 22 are both disposed on the circuit board 24. A first latching portion 231 and a second latching portion 232 are located on the upper and lower sides of the circuit board 24, respectively. The connection hole 22 penetrates the circuit board 24. The touch sensing electrodes 21 are disposed to avoid the connection hole 22. A non-metallic connector 23 is directly connected to the circuit board 24.

[0092] In some examples, the circuit board 24 is lightweight, which helps to reduce the overall weight of the key-type touch keyboard 10 and achieve a lightweight design. In this embodiment, the circuit board 24 is not easily bent or deformed. The circuit board 24 can be a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0093] In some examples, the circuit board assembly 20 also includes a reinforcing sheet. The reinforcing sheet is disposed on the side of the circuit board 24 facing away from the keycap. The reinforcing sheet is connected to the circuit board 24, for example, by adhesive bonding. The reinforcing sheet can effectively improve the resistance to deformation of the circuit board assembly 20, reducing the possibility of the circuit board 24 bending and breaking. Exemplarily, the thickness of the reinforcing sheet is 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm. The reinforcing sheet can be a steel sheet.

[0094] In some examples, when the material of the non-metallic connector 23 is plastic or rubber, the non-metallic connector 23 can be formed by injection molding on the circuit board 24, thereby connecting the non-metallic connector 23 and the circuit board 24 to form an integral structure.

[0095] The touch sensing electrode 21 is directly formed on the circuit board 24, so that the touch sensing electrode 21 and the circuit board 24 form an integral structure. Therefore, compared to the prior art where the touch sensing electrode 21 is independently set as a separate structural component, the position of the touch sensing electrode 21 in this embodiment will not move, reducing the possibility of the touch sensing electrode 21 shifting position, causing a change in the position of the touch area 20a, or causing touch failure due to wrinkles in the touch sensing electrode 21. Exemplarily, the touch sensing electrode 21 can be set on the circuit board 24 of the circuit board assembly 20 through coating, electroplating, etching, or printing processes.

[0096] In some examples, the touch-sensing electrode 21 may include a plurality of diamond or square patterned electrode units 211. The individual electrode units 211 in the touch-sensing electrode 21 are arranged in an orderly manner. Adjacent electrode units 211 are electrically connected to each other.

[0097] The circuit board assembly 20 also includes an adhesive layer 25. The adhesive layer 25 is disposed on the surface of the circuit board 24 facing away from the keycap 32. The circuit board 24 can be adhered to a corresponding mounting platform via the adhesive layer 25, thereby securing the key-type touch keyboard 10 to the mounting platform. Exemplarily, the adhesive layer 25 can be double-sided tape or a liquid adhesive.

[0098] Since the second latching part 232 abuts against the side surface of the circuit board 24 facing away from the keycap 32, the corresponding position of the circuit board 24 and the second latching part 232 does not need to be provided with a recessed part. As a result, the overall thickness of the circuit board 24 is set to be uniform and consistent, which makes the circuit board 24 itself have strong mechanical strength and strong resistance to deformation. This can reduce the possibility that the circuit board 24 is prone to cracks due to the compressive stress applied by the second latching part 232.

[0099] Figure 9 The diagram schematically shows a top view of a button-type touch keyboard 10 according to one embodiment. See also... Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, the circuit board assembly 20 also includes a first backlight group 26. The first backlight group 26 is located within the touch area 20a and below one or more buttons 30. The first backlight group 26 can be used to provide backlighting to the buttons 30 located in the touch area 20a, so that users can clearly see the corresponding buttons 30 in low-light environments, reducing the possibility of button malfunctions and improving input efficiency. The first backlight group 26 can also be used to display the touch area 20a through backlighting, so that users can clearly see the touch area 20a, making it easier for users to accurately and quickly perform gesture touch operations within the touch area 20a, reducing the possibility of input errors caused by performing gesture touch operations in non-touch areas due to the inability to clearly identify the touch area 20a.

[0100] The first backlight group 26 can display different colors. When the touch keyboard 10 is in touch mode, the first backlight group 26 emits a first color, and when the touch keyboard 10 is in input mode, the first backlight group 26 emits a second color, wherein the first color and the second color are different. For example, when the touch keyboard 10 is in touch mode, the first backlight group 26 emits red light, and when the touch keyboard 10 is in input mode, the first backlight group 26 emits white light. The first backlight group 26 can use different color changes to remind the user of the switching of the touch keyboard 10's functions and the position of the touch area 20a, thereby improving the accuracy and convenience of the user's touch input.

[0101] For example, a physical switch (not shown) can be provided on the keypad 10, allowing the user to switch between touch and input functions. This physical switch can control the color displayed by the first backlight group 26. Alternatively, the touch sensing electrode 21 can automatically recognize the user's gestures to determine if the user is performing a touch operation. For instance, if the user inputs a checkmark gesture in the touch area 20a, the touch sensing electrode 21 automatically recognizes the gesture and automatically switches between touch and input functions. In this case, the keypad 10 can automatically control the first backlight group 26 to illuminate.

[0102] In some examples, the first backlight group 26 includes a backlight 261. The backlight 261 is disposed below the keycap 32 of at least some of the buttons 30. For example, the backlight 261 can be disposed below the keycap 32 of the buttons 30 located at the edge of the touch area 20a. Alternatively, the backlight 261 can be disposed below the keycap 32 of all buttons 30 within the touch area 20a. The touch sensing electrode 21 avoids the backlight 261, thereby reducing the possibility of signal interference from the backlight 261 to the touch sensing electrode 21. The backlight 261 can be disposed in the gap between two adjacent electrode units 211. The backlight 261 is disposed on the circuit board 24. The backlight 261 can be an LED.

[0103] In some examples, the backlights 261 below different buttons 30 can also be controlled individually, so that the backlights 261 below different buttons 30 have different brightness or different light colors to meet personalized needs.

[0104] For example, the first backlight group 26 may include dual-color backlights 261. For instance, in touch function mode, the backlights 261 may emit red light, while in input function mode, the backlights 261 may emit white light. Alternatively, two sets of backlights 261 may be provided below the keycap 32. The color of the light emitted by the first set of backlights 261 is different from the color of the light emitted by the second set of backlights 261. For example, in touch function mode, the first set of backlights 261 is active and emits red light, while the second set of backlights 261 is off; while in input function mode, the second set of backlights 261 is active and emits white light, while the first set of backlights 261 is off.

[0105] In some embodiments, see Figure 8 As shown, the circuit board assembly 20 also includes a second backlight group 27. The second backlight group 27 is located in the non-touch area. The non-touch area refers to the area on the keypad 10 other than the touch area 20a defined by the touch sensing electrode 21. The second backlight group 27 can be used to provide backlight to the buttons 30 located in the non-touch area, so that even in low-light environments, the user can clearly see the corresponding buttons 30 in the non-touch area, reducing the possibility of accidental button operation and improving input efficiency.

[0106] When the touch keyboard 10 is activated, the first backlight group 26 in the touch area 20a emits a different color than the second backlight group 27 in the non-touch area. However, when the touch keyboard 10 is activated for input, the first backlight group 26 and the second backlight group 27 emit the same color. For example, when the touch keyboard 10 is activated, the first backlight group 26 emits red light, while the second backlight group 27 emits white light. When the touch keyboard 10 is activated for input, both the first backlight group 26 and the second backlight group 27 emit white light. The first backlight group 26 and the second backlight group 27 distinguish the touch area 20a from the non-touch area by displaying different backlight colors. This allows the user to clearly observe the touch area 20a and the non-touch area, facilitating accurate and quick gesture operation within the touch area 20a and reducing the possibility of input errors due to inaccurate recognition of the touch area 20a and resulting in gesture operation in the non-touch area.

[0107] The second backlight group 27 includes a backlight 261. In non-touch areas, at least some of the keycaps 30 have a backlight 261 located below their keycaps 32. For example, a backlight 261 can be located below the keycaps 32 of the key 30 located in the non-touch area near the touch area 20a. Alternatively, a backlight 261 can be located below the keycaps 32 of all the key 30s in all non-touch areas. The backlight 261 is mounted on the circuit board 24.

[0108] Figure 10 A partial structure of a button-type touch keyboard 10 according to one embodiment is schematically shown. See also Figure 10 As shown, the keypad-type touch keyboard 10 also includes a wireless communication antenna 40. The wireless communication antenna 40 is disposed on the circuit board assembly 20. The wireless communication antenna 40 is located on one side of the touch sensing electrode 21, that is, the wireless communication antenna 40 is located in the non-touch area of ​​the keypad-type touch keyboard 10. Compared with the stacked arrangement of the touch sensing electrode 21 and the wireless communication antenna 40, the flat arrangement of the touch sensing electrode 21 and the wireless communication antenna 40 reduces the overall thickness of the keypad-type touch keyboard 10 and also helps to reduce the possibility of signal interference between the touch sensing electrode 21 and the wireless communication antenna 40.

[0109] For example, the wireless communication antenna 40 may include a Bluetooth (BT) antenna and / or a near field communication (NFC) coil.

[0110] Figure 11 A partial cross-sectional view of a button-type touch keyboard 10 according to one embodiment is shown schematically. See also Figure 11As shown, the key 30 also includes an elastic element 33. The elastic element 33 is disposed on the surface of the keycap 32 facing the circuit board assembly 20. The elastic element 33 is located between the keycap 32 and the circuit board assembly 20. The elastic element 33 provides a restoring force to the keycap 32. When the user presses the keycap 32 downwards, the keycap 32 compresses the elastic element 33. When the user releases the keycap 32, the elastic element 33 releases its elastic potential energy to rebound and drive the keycap 32 upwards. Exemplarily, the end of the elastic element 33 near the circuit board assembly 20 is connected to the surface of the circuit board assembly 20 facing the keycap 32. Exemplarily, the elastic element 33 is a flexible structure. The material of the elastic element 33 can be selected from silicone or rubber.

[0111] The circuit board assembly 20 includes a key sensing electrode 28. The key 30 also includes a conductive layer 34. The conductive layer 34 is disposed on the portion of the elastic member 33 near the circuit board assembly 20. The key sensing electrode 28 and the conductive layer 34 are spaced apart by a predetermined distance, thereby forming a capacitor between them. Moving the elastic member 33 up or down can change the capacitance value. The key-type touch keyboard 10 receives the capacitance value change signal to identify the position of the key 30 that has been pressed, so as to execute the corresponding input command. Exemplarily, the material of the conductive layer 34 may be a carbon powder layer or a carbon powder-containing layer structure.

[0112] In some examples, the elastic element 33 has a recess 331 on the surface facing the circuit board assembly 20. A conductive layer 34 is disposed on the bottom wall of the recess 331. Since the conductive layer 34 is located within the recess 331, the elastic element 33 protects the conductive layer 34, thereby improving the waterproof and dustproof performance of the key-type touch keyboard 10, making it less likely for water or conductive dust to come into contact with the conductive layer 34, and reducing the possibility that water or conductive dust will interfere with the capacitance between the conductive layer 34 and the key sensing electrode 28.

[0113] Figure 12 A partial top view of a circuit board assembly provided in another embodiment is schematically shown. See also Figure 12 As shown, the touch sensing electrode 21 can be divided into a left-hand touch area and a right-hand touch area, for example, with Figure 12 The dotted line in the middle serves as the dividing line, with the left side representing the left-hand touch area and the right side representing the right-hand touch area. The left-hand and right-hand touch areas can each perform touch functions independently. For example, users who are accustomed to using their left hand can selectively enable the left-hand touch area while keeping the right-hand touch area disabled, and vice versa. The touch-sensing electrode 21 caters to the needs of users with different usage habits, improving product satisfaction.

[0114] Figure 13 The diagram schematically shows a top view of a button-type touch keyboard 10 according to one embodiment. Figure 14The schematic diagram shows a top view of a circuit board 24 and a touch-sensing electrode 21 according to one embodiment. Figure 15 The diagram schematically shows a top view of a backlight module 29 according to one embodiment. See also... Figures 13 to 15 As shown, the circuit board assembly 20 includes a circuit board 24 and a backlight module 29. The backlight module 29 includes a light guide plate 291. The light guide plate 291 is disposed on the side of the circuit board 24 facing the keycap 32. The light guide plate 291 has the functions of guiding and distributing light. The backlight module 29 can display backlight through the light guide plate 291 to illuminate the corresponding area of ​​the keycap 30. The backlight module 29 can be used to provide backlight to the keycap 30, so that even in a dimly lit environment, the user can clearly see the corresponding keycap 30, reducing the possibility of accidental keycap operation and improving input accuracy and efficiency. Touch sensing electrodes 21 are disposed on the surface of the circuit board 24 facing the light guide plate 291. Connecting holes 22 are disposed on the light guide plate 291. Non-metallic connectors 23 are connected to the light guide plate 291.

[0115] In some examples, the light guide plate 291 is made of an insulating material, such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

[0116] In some examples, the light guide plate 291 is bonded to the touch sensing electrode 21 and / or the circuit board 24 by an adhesive 294, for example, the adhesive 294 may be double-sided tape.

[0117] In some embodiments, a touch sensing electrode 21 is provided on the area of ​​the circuit board 24 corresponding to the connection hole 22. Since the connection hole 22 is located on the light guide plate 291, the touch sensing electrode 21 on the circuit board 24 no longer needs to avoid the connection hole 22. As a result, the overall shape of the touch sensing electrode 21 on the circuit board 24 can be designed to be more regular, which is beneficial to further improve the touch sensitivity of the touch sensing electrode 21.

[0118] In some embodiments, the backlight module 29 further includes a light-emitting unit 292. The light-emitting unit 292 is used to guide incident light onto the light guide plate 291. The light-emitting unit 292 can be positioned near the edge of the light guide plate 291. When the light-emitting unit 292 is lit, it directs light into the light guide plate 291. After the light is uniformly distributed by the light guide plate 291, it illuminates the button 30 area. Since the light-emitting unit 292 can be positioned in a non-touch area, the touch sensing electrode 21 does not need to avoid the light-emitting unit 292. Therefore, the touch sensing electrode 21 can be designed with a regular shape, which is beneficial to further improve the sensitivity of the touch sensing electrode 21. Furthermore, the touch sensing electrode 21 is less affected by the light-emitting unit 292, which also helps to improve the sensitivity of the touch sensing electrode 21. For example, the light-emitting unit 292 can be an LED light.

[0119] In some embodiments, the backlight module 29 further includes a light-blocking member 293. The light-blocking member 293 divides the light guide plate 291 into a first region 291a and a second region 291b. The light-blocking member 293 is an opaque structural component. The light-blocking member 293 serves to prevent light mixing between the first region 291a and the second region 291b. The light-blocking member 293 extends along the outer contour of the touch sensing electrode 21. The touch area 20a defined by the touch sensing electrode 21 can correspond to the first region 291a of the light guide plate 291. The non-touch area of ​​the button-type touch keyboard 10 can correspond to the second region 291b of the light guide plate 291. When the button-type touch keyboard 10 is in touch mode, the first region 291a and the second region 291b emit different colors of light. When the button-type touch keyboard 10 is in input mode, the first region 291a and the second region 291b emit the same color of light.

[0120] The first area 291a and the second area 291b of the light guide plate 291 distinguish the touch area 20a and the non-touch area by displaying different colors of backlight. This allows the user to clearly observe the touch area 20a and the non-touch area, making it easier for the user to accurately and quickly perform gesture touch operations in the touch area 20a. This reduces the possibility of input errors caused by performing gesture touch operations in the non-touch area due to the inability to recognize the touch area 20a.

[0121] In some examples, the first region 291a and the second region 291b of the light guide plate 291 are respectively bonded and fixed to the light blocking member 293. The light guide plate 291 and the light blocking member 293 may be bonded to the touch sensing electrode 21 and / or the circuit board 24.

[0122] In some examples, the light-emitting units 292 in the backlight module 29 that emit incident light in the first region 291a of the light guide plate 291 and the light-emitting units 292 in the backlight module 29 that emit incident light in the second region 291b of the light guide plate 291 are controlled separately. For example, when the touch keyboard 10 is activated, the light-emitting unit 292 in the backlight module 29 that emits incident light in the first region 291a of the light guide plate 291 is controlled to emit red light, while the light-emitting unit 292 in the backlight module 29 that emits incident light in the second region 291b of the light guide plate 291 is controlled to emit white light. When the touch keyboard 10 is activated, the light-emitting unit 292 in the backlight module 29 that emits incident light in the first region 291a of the light guide plate 291 is controlled to emit white light, while the light-emitting unit 292 in the backlight module 29 that emits incident light in the second region 291b of the light guide plate 291 is controlled to emit white light.

[0123] Figure 16 schematically shown Figure 13 Cross-sectional view along the BB direction. See also Figure 16As shown, the non-metallic connector 23 includes a first latching portion 231 and a second latching portion 232. The first latching portion 231 and the second latching portion 232 are located on the upper and lower sides of the light guide plate 291, respectively. The second latching portion 232 is located on the side of the light guide plate 291 facing away from the keycap 32. At least a portion of the second latching portion 232 abuts against the surface of the light guide plate 291 facing away from the keycap 32. The second latching portion 232 can improve the connection stability and reliability between the non-metallic connector 23 and the light guide plate 291. Since the second latching portion 232 abuts against the surface of the light guide plate 291 facing away from the keycap 32, the second latching portion 232 plays a constraining and limiting role. Therefore, when the first latching portion 231 is subjected to the upward pulling force of the scissor-leg assembly 31, the non-metallic connector 23 is not easily dislodged from the connection hole 22 and separated from the light guide plate 291.

[0124] In some examples, a gap is formed between the first latching portion 231 and the light guide plate 291, and the scissor-leg assembly 31 includes a pivot portion 31a that latches into this gap. Alternatively, a slot may be provided on the first latching portion 231, and the scissor-leg assembly 31 includes a pivot portion 31a that latches into this slot. Exemplarily, the first latching portion 231 extends radially along the connecting hole 22. The opening of the slot on the first latching portion 231 is located on the surface of the first latching portion 231 facing the light guide plate 291.

[0125] Figure 17 The structure of a light-shielding sheet according to one embodiment is shown schematically. See also Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the backlight module 29 also includes a light-shielding sheet 295. The light-shielding sheet 295 can be made of plastic. The light-shielding sheet 295 is located on the side of the light guide plate 291 near the keycap 32. The light-shielding sheet 295 has a light-transmitting hole 295a corresponding to the key 30. The projected area of ​​the keycap 32 facing the light-shielding sheet 295 is larger than the projected area of ​​the light-transmitting hole 295a. The light emitted from the light guide plate 291 can only be emitted at the light-transmitting hole 295a of the light-shielding sheet 295, thereby making the backlight of the key 30 soft and uniform, reducing the possibility that the light emitted from the light guide plate 291 will shine directly out from the gap between the keycaps 32 and cause glare to the user. The light shield 295 can also block the part of the touch sensing electrode 21 located between the keycaps 32, so that the light shield 295 can protect the touch sensing electrode 21. The touch sensing electrode 21 is not easily visible from the outside of the key-type touch keyboard 10, and the possibility of the touch sensing electrode 21 being broken due to scratches from external objects is also reduced.

[0126] In some examples, the first snap-fit ​​portion 231 of the non-metallic connector 23 is inserted into the light-transmitting hole 295a, while the scissor-leg assembly 31 is rotatably connected to the first snap-fit ​​portion 231.

[0127] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0128] The devices or elements referred to in the embodiments of this application or implied herein must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise precisely specified.

[0129] The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc. (if present) in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of the present application described herein can be implemented, for example, in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0130] The term "multiple" in this article refers to two or more. The term "and / or" in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone. Furthermore, the character " / " in this article generally indicates an "or" relationship between the preceding and following related objects; in formulas, the character " / " indicates a "division" relationship between the preceding and following related objects.

[0131] It is understood that the various numerical designations used in the embodiments of this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0132] It is understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the order of the above-mentioned process numbers does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A button-type touch keyboard (10), characterized in that, include: Circuit board assembly (20) and a plurality of buttons (30) disposed on said circuit board assembly (20); The circuit board assembly (20) includes a touch sensing electrode (21), a connection hole (22), and a non-metallic connector (23). The touch sensing electrode (21) defines a touch area (20a), and at least some of the plurality of buttons (30) are located within the touch area (20a). The non-metallic connector (23) is connected to the connection hole (22). The key (30) includes a scissor-switch assembly (31) and a keycap (32), wherein the scissor-switch assembly (31) is rotatably connected to the keycap (32) and the non-metallic connector (23), respectively; The non-metallic connector (23) includes a first snap-fit ​​portion (231), which is located on the side of the circuit board assembly (20) facing the keycap (32). The scissor-switch assembly (31) is rotatably snapped into the first snap-fit ​​portion (231). The orthographic projection of the first snap-fit ​​portion (231) on the circuit board assembly (20) overlaps with the orthographic projection of the touch sensing electrode (21).

2. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The non-metallic connector (23) further includes a second snap-fit ​​portion (232), which is located on the side of the circuit board assembly (20) facing away from the keycap (32), and at least a portion of the second snap-fit ​​portion (232) abuts against the surface of the circuit board assembly (20) facing away from the keycap (32).

3. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The circuit board assembly (20) includes a circuit board (24), the touch sensing electrode (21) and the connection hole (22) are both disposed on the circuit board (24), the first latching part (231) and the second latching part (232) are respectively located on the upper and lower sides of the circuit board (24), and the touch sensing electrode (21) is disposed to avoid the connection hole (22).

4. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The circuit board assembly (20) further includes a first backlight group (26) located within the touch area (20a) and below the button (30).

5. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that, When the touch keyboard (10) is activated, the first backlight group (26) emits a first color. When the touch keyboard (10) is activated, the first backlight group (26) emits a second color. The first color and the second color are different.

6. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The first backlight group (26) includes a backlight (261), and the backlight (261) is disposed below the keycap (32) of the button (30), and the touch sensing electrode (21) avoids the backlight (261).

7. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The circuit board assembly (20) also includes a second backlight group (27), which is located in the non-touch area. When the touch function of the keypad (10) is enabled, the first backlight group (26) and the second backlight group (27) in the touch area (20a) emit different colors. When the input function of the keypad (10) is enabled, the first backlight group (26) and the second backlight group (27) emit the same color.

8. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The circuit board assembly (20) includes a circuit board (24) and a backlight module (29). The backlight module (29) includes a light guide plate (291). The light guide plate (291) is disposed on the side of the circuit board (24) facing the keycap (32). The touch sensing electrode (21) is disposed on the surface of the circuit board (24) facing the light guide plate (291). The connection hole (22) is disposed on the light guide plate (291). The non-metallic connector (23) further includes a second snap-fit ​​portion (232), wherein the first snap-fit ​​portion (231) and the second snap-fit ​​portion (232) are located on the upper and lower sides of the light guide plate (291), respectively.

9. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The touch sensing electrode (21) is provided on the circuit board (24) in the area corresponding to the connection hole (22).

10. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The backlight module (29) also includes a light-blocking component (293), which divides the light guide plate (291) into a first region (291a) and a second region (291b). The touch area (20a) corresponds to the first region (291a). When the button-type touch keyboard (10) is activated for touch function, the first region (291a) and the second region (291b) emit different colors of light. When the button-type touch keyboard (10) is activated for input function, the first region (291a) and the second region (291b) emit the same color of light.

11. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The backlight module (29) also includes a light shield (295), which is located on the side of the light guide plate (291) near the keycap (32). The light shield (295) has a light-transmitting hole (295a) corresponding to the key (30). The positive projection area of ​​the keycap (32) facing the light shield (295) is larger than the positive projection area of ​​the light-transmitting hole (295a).

12. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The backlight module (29) also includes a light-emitting unit (292) for emitting light into the light guide plate (291).

13. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to claim 4 or 9, characterized in that, The touch sensing electrode (21) is disposed on the circuit board (24) by coating, electroplating, etching or printing processes.

14. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, 8, and 9, characterized in that, The keypad (10) also includes a wireless communication antenna (40), which is disposed on the circuit board assembly (20) and located on one side of the touch sensing electrode (21).

15. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, 8, and 9, characterized in that, The key (30) also includes an elastic element (33) disposed on the surface of the keycap (32) facing the circuit board assembly (20), and the elastic element (33) is used to provide a rebound force to the keycap (32).

16. The key-type touch keyboard (10) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The circuit board assembly (20) includes a button sensing electrode (28), and the button (30) further includes a conductive layer (34). The conductive layer (34) is disposed on the portion of the elastic member (33) near the circuit board assembly (20). A capacitor is formed between the button sensing electrode (28) and the conductive layer (34). The elastic member (33) can change the capacitance value by moving up or down.

17. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: The key-type touch keyboard (10) as described in any one of claims 1 to 16.

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