Keyboard and electronic device
By incorporating a top waterproof layer and support components into the keyboard design, the problem of the waterproof layer detaching from the keycaps has been solved, improving the keyboard's user experience and lifespan.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- LANTO ELECTRONIC LIMITED
- Filing Date
- 2023-02-28
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-21
AI Technical Summary
The waterproof layer on existing keyboards is prone to detaching from the keycaps, affecting user experience and typing feel, and reducing the keyboard's lifespan.
A keyboard structure is designed, wherein the top waterproof layer includes a first fitting part, a second fitting part and a third fitting part, the keycap includes a pressing surface and a first through hole, the support component includes a first support structure, the deformation area of the top waterproof layer is located within the receiving gap when the keycap is pressed, and the first through hole facilitates the air discharge between the pressing surface and the first fitting part, ensuring the stability of the waterproof layer and the pressing feel of the keycap.
This effectively prevents the deformation of the waterproof layer from affecting adjacent keycaps, improving the keyboard's user experience and lifespan. The waterproof layer is fixed in position before and after the keycaps are pressed, preventing the waterproof layer from failing.
Smart Images

Figure CN116130278B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the technical field of keyboards, and more particularly to a keyboard and electronic device. Background Technology
[0002] The keyboard is the most commonly used and primary input device, enabling the input of text, programs, and numbers into electronic devices, and is one of the most important productivity tools. With the continuous development of electronic devices, keyboards are not only used in computers but also in portable laptops and tablets. Keyboards can also connect to electronic devices wirelessly or via data cables. Furthermore, with continuous improvements in manufacturing technology, keyboard quality has become increasingly refined, the number of keystrokes that keys can withstand has significantly increased, and the overall lifespan of keyboards has been greatly extended.
[0003] In existing technologies, keyboard waterproofing is usually achieved by setting a waterproof layer. To meet customer needs, the material selection for the keyboard waterproof layer is often leather or similar materials. However, when such materials are directly applied, incomplete adhesion can easily occur. In addition, the pressure from the keycaps on the keyboard can cause the waterproof layer to move, eventually causing it to detach from the keycaps. This not only seriously affects the user experience but also reduces the accuracy of keyboard typing and affects the feel of pressing the keys. Summary of the Invention
[0004] This application provides a keyboard and electronic device to solve the problem in the prior art where the waterproof layer of the keyboard is easily detached from the keycaps.
[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a keyboard, including: a top waterproof layer, keycaps, and a support assembly. The top waterproof layer includes a first fitting portion, a second fitting portion, and a third fitting portion. The keycaps include a pressing surface, a first through hole, and a keycap sidewall. The opening of the first through hole is disposed within the pressing surface. The first fitting portion is fitted with the pressing surface, and the keycap sidewall is fitted with the second fitting portion. The support assembly includes a first support structure disposed between adjacent keycaps. The first support structure is fitted with the third fitting portion, and a receiving gap is provided between the first support structure and the vertical plane containing the bottom side of the adjacent keycap. When the keycap is pressed, the deformation area of the top waterproof layer is located within the receiving gap.
[0006] Furthermore, the deformable area is the deformable part of the top waterproof layer. The deformable part includes a curved section and a bent section connected in sequence. The end of the curved section away from the bent section is connected to the second fitting part, and the bent section is connected to the third fitting part. When the keycap is pressed, the deformable part can be completely accommodated in the accommodating gap.
[0007] Furthermore, the bent segment can rotate around the connection point between the bent segment and the third mating part.
[0008] Furthermore, when the keycap is not pressed, the bent section and the third contact part are located in the same plane, the bent section is arc-shaped, and the bent section is located on the side of the plane closest to the keycap.
[0009] Furthermore, when the keycap is not pressed, the second contact part is completely in contact with the side wall of the keycap, and at least part of the deformable part is located within the receiving gap.
[0010] Furthermore, the keyboard also includes an adhesive layer disposed between the pressing surface and the first bonding portion. The adhesive layer is bonded to both the pressing surface and the first bonding portion. There are multiple first through holes, and the central axis of each first through hole is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the pressing surface. The cross-section of each first through hole is circular, and the maximum dimension of the cross-section of the first through hole is 0.05 to 0.2 mm.
[0011] Furthermore, the wall of the first through hole is arranged in a straight line along the central axis; and / or, along the central axis direction away from the pressing surface, the wall of the first through hole gradually moves away from the central axis.
[0012] Furthermore, the keycap also includes a limiting part that surrounds the pressing surface, and the limiting part and the pressing surface form a cavity for receiving the adhesive layer.
[0013] Furthermore, the adhesive layer is a liquid glue or a sheet adhesive, and the first bonding part and the pressing surface are bonded together by the adhesive layer.
[0014] Secondly, this application provides an electronic device, which includes a keyboard and a device body, wherein the keyboard is the keyboard described above, and the keyboard and the device body are connected by a signal.
[0015] The technical solutions provided in this application have the following advantages compared with the prior art:
[0016] This application provides a keyboard and electronic device, wherein the keyboard includes: a top waterproof layer, keycaps, and a support assembly. The top waterproof layer includes a first fitting portion, a second fitting portion, and a third fitting portion. The keycaps include a pressing surface, a first through hole, and a keycap sidewall. The opening of the first through hole is disposed within the pressing surface. The first fitting portion is fitted with the pressing surface, and the keycap sidewall is fitted with the second fitting portion. The support assembly includes a first support structure disposed between adjacent keycaps. The first support structure is fitted with the third fitting portion, and a receiving gap is provided between the first support structure and the vertical plane containing the bottom side of the adjacent keycap. When the keycap is pressed, the deformation area of the top waterproof layer is located within the receiving gap. The first through-hole facilitates air expulsion between the pressing surface and the first contact part, resulting in a tighter bond between them. The accommodating gap can accommodate deformation of the waterproof layer when the keycap is pressed, preventing deformation from affecting adjacent keycaps. Simultaneously, the deformed waterproof layer is contained, preventing it from affecting the keycap's tactile feedback and improving the keyboard's user experience. Furthermore, the waterproof layer's position remains fixed before and after the keycap is pressed, preventing waterproof layer failure due to keycap pressure and extending the keyboard's lifespan. This application effectively solves the problem of the waterproof layer easily detaching from the keycap in existing technologies. Attached Figure Description
[0017] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.
[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0019] Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of a keyboard according to Embodiment 1 of this application is shown;
[0020] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of a keyboard keycap in the pressed state;
[0021] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of the top waterproof layer of the keyboard;
[0022] Figure 4 This illustration shows a partial cross-sectional view of a keyboard according to Embodiment 2 of this application;
[0023] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4A partial cross-sectional view of a keyboard keycap in the pressed state;
[0024] Figure 6 This illustration shows a partial cross-sectional view of a keyboard according to Embodiment 3 of this application;
[0025] Figure 7 It shows Figure 6 A partial cross-sectional view of a keyboard keycap in the pressed state;
[0026] Figure 8 It shows Figure 6 A partial cross-sectional view of the top waterproof layer of the keyboard;
[0027] Figure 9 A partial cross-sectional view of a keyboard according to Embodiment 4 of this application is shown;
[0028] Figure 10 It shows Figure 9 A partial cross-sectional view of a keyboard keycap in the pressed state;
[0029] Figure 11 A partial cross-sectional view of a keyboard according to Embodiment 5 of this application is shown;
[0030] Figure 12 It shows Figure 11 A partial cross-sectional view of a keyboard keycap in the pressed state;
[0031] Figure 13 This illustration shows an assembly diagram of a keycap according to Embodiment Six of this application;
[0032] Figure 14 It shows Figure 13 A 3D structural diagram of the keycaps;
[0033] Figure 15 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the keycap provided in Embodiment Six of this application is shown;
[0034] Figure 16 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the keycap provided in Embodiment Six of this application is shown;
[0035] Figure 17 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in Embodiment 7 of this application is shown.
[0036] Figure 18 It shows Figure 17 An exploded diagram of the provided electronic equipment.
[0037] The above figures include the following reference numerals:
[0038] 10. Top waterproof layer; 11. First bonding part; 12. Second bonding part; 13. Third bonding part; 131. Connection point; 14. Deformable part; 141. Bending section; 142. Bending section; 20. Keycap; 21. Pressing surface; 22. First through hole; 23. Keycap sidewall; 24. Limiting part; 30. Support assembly; 31. First support structure; 32. Second support structure; 40. Accommodation gap; 50. Adhesive layer; 60. Touch module; 70. Bottom mounting plate; 80. Bottom waterproof layer. Detailed Implementation
[0039] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0040] like Figures 1 to 3As shown, Embodiment 1 of this application provides a keyboard, including: a top waterproof layer 10, keycaps 20, and a support assembly 30. The top waterproof layer 10 includes a first fitting portion 11, a second fitting portion 12, and a third fitting portion 13. The keycaps 20 include a pressing surface 21, a first through hole 22, and a keycap sidewall 23. The opening of the first through hole 22 is disposed within the pressing surface 21. The first fitting portion 11 is fitted with the pressing surface 21, and the keycap sidewall 23 is fitted with the second fitting portion 12. The support assembly 30 includes a first support structure 31, which is disposed between adjacent keycaps 20. The first support structure 31 is fitted with the third fitting portion 13. A receiving gap 40 is provided between the first support structure 31 and the vertical plane containing the bottom side of the adjacent keycap 20. When the keycap 20 is pressed, the deformation area of the top waterproof layer 10 is located within the receiving gap 40. The first bonding portion 11, the second bonding portion 12, and the third bonding portion 13 completely cover the keyboard, achieving waterproofing. The first through hole 22 facilitates air expulsion between the pressing surface 21 and the first bonding portion 11, resulting in a tighter bond between them. The accommodating gap 40 accommodates the deformation area of the top waterproof layer 10 when the keycap 20 is pressed, preventing deformation of the top waterproof layer 10 from affecting adjacent keycaps 20. Simultaneously, the deformed top waterproof layer 10 is contained, preventing it from affecting the keycap 20's pressing feel and improving the keyboard's user experience. Furthermore, the top waterproof layer 10 remains in a fixed position before and after the keycap 20 is pressed, preventing the top waterproof layer 10 from failing due to deformation and not returning to its original position, thus extending the keyboard's lifespan. This application effectively solves the problem in the prior art where deformation of the keyboard's waterproof layer affects the keyboard's pressing feel. It should be noted that multiple keycaps 20 are used to accommodate various keyboard applications. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The diagram shows only an assembly of a single keycap 20. An elastic element is located beneath the keycap 20, allowing it to spring back after being pressed. It should be noted that the top of the accommodating gap 40 is in contact with the third mating part 13 and the first support structure 31. In this embodiment, "matting" refers to the two parts being in contact with each other, but it does not limit whether the mating parts are fixedly connected. After assembly, the two mating positions are designed to be compact and less prone to air bubbles.
[0041] like Figures 1 to 3As shown, in the technical solution of Embodiment 1, the deformable area is the deformable portion 14 of the top waterproof layer 10. The deformable portion 14 is connected to the second bonding portion 12 and the third bonding portion 13 respectively. When the keycap 20 is pressed, the deformable portion 14 can be completely accommodated within the accommodating gap 40. The deformable portion 14 is designed to deform the top waterproof layer 10 when it is pressed down. The purpose of this design is to control the deformation of the top waterproof layer 10 within the deformable portion 14, and at the same time, to prevent the second bonding portion 12 from being pulled against the side wall 23 of the keycap, causing the second bonding portion 12 to detach from the side wall 23 of the keycap.
[0042] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in the technical solution of Embodiment 1, the deformable portion 14 includes a bending segment 141 and a folded segment 142. The bending segment 141 is disposed between the folded segment 142 and the second bonding portion 12, and the folded segment 142 is connected to the third bonding portion 13. Further, the deformable portion 14 is divided into a bending segment 141 and a folded segment 142. The deformable portion 14 closer to the second bonding portion 12 has a larger deformation amount and more changes in deformation position. Therefore, the bending segment 141 can accommodate a larger range of deformation. Simultaneously, the folded segment 142 can connect with the third bonding portion 13 to provide a certain supporting connection and prevent the deformable portion 14 from causing the third bonding portion 13 to detach. The folded segment 142 keeps the third bonding portion 13 further away from the deformation area, thus not affecting the bonding of the third bonding portion 13.
[0043] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in the technical solution of Embodiment 1, the bent segment 142 can rotate around the connection point 131 between the bent segment 142 and the third fitting portion 13. By setting the connection point 131 and the fact that the bent segment 142 can rotate around the connection point 131 between the bent segment 142 and the third fitting portion 13, the positional relationship between the bent segment 142 and the third fitting portion 13 is changed through rotation, thus preventing the third fitting portion 13 from being subjected to tensile forces due to stretching deformation, which could lead to detachment.
[0044] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in the technical solution of Embodiment 1, the connection point 131 is located at the position where the third fitting part 13 extends in the direction close to the keycap. The connection point 131 is located away from the first support structure 31, so that the bent section 142 can rotate at a large angle. This arrangement allows the bent section 141 to be located within the receiving gap 40 when the keycap 20 is pressed, and to obtain a stretched state, avoiding the bent section 141 from being in a deformed and compressed state. This can prevent the bent section 141 from being deformed for a long time, thus avoiding the failure of the bent section 141, thereby improving the long-term use of the top waterproof layer 10 material.
[0045] like Figures 1 to 3As shown, in the technical solution of Embodiment 1, when the keycap 20 is not pressed, the deformable part 14 is located outside the receiving gap 40. This arrangement ensures that the deformable part 14 is completely above the receiving gap 40, making the receiving gap 40 invisible when the keycap 20 is not pressed, thus improving the overall visual appearance of the keyboard. It also prevents water accumulation at the receiving gap 40 in terms of waterproofing.
[0046] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in the technical solution of Embodiment 1, when the keycap 20 is not pressed, the bent section 142 and the third fitting part 13 are located in the same plane. The bent section 141 is arc-shaped and located on the side of the plane closest to the keycap 20. The arc-shaped bent section 141 makes the top waterproof layer 10 of the keyboard appear as a single unit when viewed from above, avoiding the appearance of grooves and lines, which is beneficial for the formation of a unified look during the design process. The fact that the bent section 142 and the third fitting part 13 are located in the same plane also hides the connection points, making the overall effect more obvious and reducing the amount of material used. Under the premise of stable waterproof performance, the above keyboard design does not require a more stable keyboard structure.
[0047] It should be noted that in the technical solution of Embodiment 1, the top waterproof layer 10 needs to be pre-pressed into the shape of the keycap 20 before assembly, specifically as follows: Figure 3 As shown, after assembly, the resulting top waterproof layer 10 and keycap 20 fit together as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown. When the keycap 20 is not pressed, the keycap 20 lifts up the entire waterproof layer around its perimeter, thus concealing the accommodating gap 40 under normal conditions and further enhancing the appearance. When the keycap is pressed, the deformable part 14 can be completely accommodated within the accommodating gap 40. The deformable part 14 not only provides the required stretch length of the waterproof layer for the keycap 20 to be pressed, but also guides the downward movement of the waterproof layer on the side wall 23 of the keycap, thus maintaining the overall appearance. The initial design of the deformable part 14 is relatively shallow, so the waterproof layer has a downward rebound force before the keycap 20 is pressed. This allows the waterproof layer to remain tightly attached to the keycap 20 even during rapid pressing, further enhancing the product's appearance during operation and improving the keyboard's typing feel.
[0048] It should be noted that, as Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, in the technical solution of Embodiment Two, the difference from that of Embodiment One is that the connection point 131 in Embodiment Two is located at the corner of the first support structure 31. This arrangement can further reduce the length of the bending section 142, thereby reducing the material of the top waterproof layer 10. When a softer material is used for the top waterproof layer 10, this arrangement is more conducive to the molding of the top waterproof layer 10. The top waterproof layer 10 in this application is all integrally molded. The advantage of this arrangement is strong waterproof performance, while avoiding the structural complexity of the keyboard due to waterproof design, and also helping to reduce the overall thickness of the keyboard.
[0049] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in the technical solution of Embodiment 3, when the keycap 20 is not pressed, at least part of the deformable portion 14 is located within the receiving gap 40. The difference between Embodiment 3 and Embodiment 1 is that the top waterproof layer 10 is provided with an extra deformable portion 14, that is, the bending section 141 and the bending section 142 are lengthened to a certain extent. This arrangement can completely prevent the second bonding portion 12 and the third bonding portion 13 from falling off, and can effectively increase the service life of the top waterproof layer 10.
[0050] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in the technical solution of Embodiment 3, when the keycap 20 is not pressed, the second fitting part 12 is completely fitted with the side wall 23 of the keycap. Furthermore, the second fitting part 12 can completely fit with the side wall 23 of the keycap, maximizing the bonding strength between the two, thus better preventing the second fitting part 12 from detaching from the side wall 23 of the keycap. It should be noted that in the technical solution of Embodiment 3, the connection point 131 is located outside the third fitting part 13. This arrangement allows the curved section 141 to be located within the receiving gap 40 when the keycap 20 is pressed, and to achieve a stretched state, avoiding the curved section 141 from being constantly in a deformed and compressed state. This prevents the curved section 141 from undergoing long-term deformation, which could lead to its failure, thereby improving the long-term use of the top waterproof layer 10 material. It should be noted that in the technical solution of Embodiment 3, the top waterproof layer 10 needs to be pre-pressed into the shape of the keycap 20 before assembly, specifically as follows... Figure 8 As shown, after assembly, the resulting top waterproof layer 10 and keycap 20 fit together as follows: Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown. When the keycap 20 is not pressed, the top waterproof layer 10 assembly simply lies flat against the keycap 20 without any other interaction force. The deformable part 14 not only provides the stretch length of the top waterproof layer 10 required for the keycap 20 to be pressed, but also guides the downward force of the waterproof layer on the side wall 23 of the keycap, thus maintaining the overall appearance.
[0051] It should be noted that this application also provides Embodiments Four and Five, wherein, as shown in the figure... Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, in the technical solution of embodiment four, when the keycap 20 is not pressed down, the curved section 141 in the deformable part 14 is set below the keycap 20. This setting further increases the length of the deformable part 14 to ensure that the fit of each part is not affected by the pulling, which is beneficial to increasing the actual service life of the keyboard itself.
[0052] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, in the technical solution of Embodiment 5, the difference between Embodiment 5 and Embodiment 3 is that the setting position of the connection point 131 is the same as that of Embodiment 2. With this setting, the bending section 141 and the bending section 142 are lengthened to a certain extent. This setting can completely prevent the second bonding part 12 and the third bonding part 13 from falling off, and can also reduce the use of materials to a certain extent and reduce production costs.
[0053] like Figures 13 to 15 As shown, in the technical solution of Embodiment Six provided in this application, the keyboard in Embodiment Six is a further improvement based on the technical solutions of Embodiments One to Five. The keyboard also includes an adhesive layer 50, which is disposed between the pressing surface 21 and the first fitting portion 11. The adhesive layer 50 is bonded to both the pressing surface 21 and the first fitting portion 11. There are multiple first through holes 22, and the central axis of each first through hole 22 is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the pressing surface 21. This arrangement ensures that the angle between the sidewall of the first through hole 22 and the pressing surface 21 is constant, the fit between the adhesive layer 50 and the first through hole 22 is uniform, and the angle formed by the sidewall of the first through hole 22 and the pressing surface is equal, thus avoiding the risk of puncturing the adhesive layer 50 and allowing the adhesive layer 50 to adhere better.
[0054] It should be noted that in the technical solution of Embodiment Six, the pressing surface 21 can be flat, suitable for thin keyboards, or it can adapt to the curved surface of the fingers, suitable for thicker keycaps 20. The curved surface is designed to improve the tactile feel when the keycaps 20 contact the fingers. This design results in a certain gap between the keycaps 20 and the top waterproof layer 10, which can easily lead to insufficient adhesion of the waterproof layer, resulting in air bubbles between the waterproof layer and the keycaps 20, which severely affects the user experience when the keycaps 20 are pressed. The top waterproof layer 10 adopts a one-piece molded structure to cover the entire keycap area, so that the waterproof performance is optimal. This design can reduce the waterproof and dustproof treatment required inside the keyboard, simplifying the internal structure and making it easier to manufacture. The top waterproof layer 10 is made of a flexible material, specifically including flexible materials such as PU, TPU, TPE, LSR, Silicone, and Rubber; the adhesive layer 50 can use double-sided tape as the connecting material, which is simple to obtain and easy to manufacture.
[0055] like Figure 14 As shown, in the technical solution of Embodiment Six, the cross-section of the first through hole 22 is circular, and the maximum dimension of the cross-section of the first through hole 22 is 0.05 to 0.2 mm. The circular design of the first through hole 22 further reduces the risk of the adhesive layer 50 being punctured. At the same time, the circular through hole is easy to process, and the structural strength of the circular through hole is higher than that of other shapes. The hole diameter of 0.05 to 0.2 mm is used for venting at the bonding contact pressing surface 21 of the adhesive layer 50 to improve the bonding yield. At the same time, the small diameter of the micro-through hole will not leave any trace on the appearance. The through hole can be realized by post-processing CNC, laser, EDM, or mold forming.
[0056] like Figure 15 As shown, in the technical solution of Embodiment Six, the wall of the first through hole 22 is arranged in a straight line along the central axis. This arrangement makes it convenient for the processing of the first through hole 22 to start from or end at the pressing surface 21, which can reduce the processing requirements of the first through hole 22. This arrangement structure is more compact and can reduce the risk of damage caused by the reduction of the overall structural strength of the keycap 20 due to material removal.
[0057] like Figure 16 As shown, in another optional embodiment, the first through hole 22 on the keycap 20 has its wall gradually moving away from the central axis in a direction away from the pressing surface. This arrangement allows the first through hole 22 to eliminate more material, reducing the overall weight; it also increases air venting during the application of the adhesive layer 50. Furthermore, when the adhesive layer 50 is liquid glue, the glue entering the first through hole 22 solidifies into a conical solid. Since the diameter of the holes on the pressing surface 21 is small, the solid cannot pass through, thus bonding the adhesive layer 50 to the keycap 20 into a single, inseparable unit. This arrangement effectively improves the lifespan of the keycap. It should be noted that the first through hole 22 can be achieved through post-processing such as CNC machining, laser engraving, electrical discharge machining, or mold forming. It should also be noted that part of the first through hole 22 can have its wall arranged in a straight line along the central axis, while another part can have its wall gradually moving away from the central axis. This combination allows for both limiting the entry of liquid glue and venting.
[0058] Based on the above embodiments, Embodiment Six of this application makes further improvements. The keycap 20 also includes a limiting part 24, which surrounds the pressing surface 21, and the limiting part 24 and the pressing surface 21 form a receiving cavity for the adhesive layer 50. This arrangement allows the adhesive layer 50 to be confined within a certain range, facilitating assembly. At the same time, the limiting part 24 can support the pressing surface 21 area to obtain the top waterproof layer 10. This arrangement can avoid the phenomenon that the first bonding part 11 is not flat enough after the top waterproof layer 10 is bonded due to uneven thickness of the adhesive layer 50. Furthermore, in order to increase the flatness of the first bonding part 11 and the connection effect between the adhesive layer 50 and the first bonding part 11, liquid glue can be filled around the adhesive layer 50. After the liquid glue solidifies, the adhesive layer 50 and the keycap 20 become one, and when bonded to the first bonding part 11, defects such as air bubbles will not form. This arrangement can also reduce the processing precision of the adhesive layer 50, making it more suitable for production.
[0059] In the technical solution of Embodiment Six, the adhesive layer 50 can be a sheet-like adhesive, which is bonded to both the first fitting portion 11 and the pressing surface 21. The sheet-like adhesive of the adhesive layer forms a generally arc shape to correspond to the setting of the keycap 20, and the sheet-like adhesive is more suitable for installation within the limiting portion 24. The sheet-like adhesive refers to a generally sheet-like material, specifically a double-sided adhesive layer, which can directly bond the first fitting portion 11 and the pressing surface 21. When the keycap 20 is designed to fit the pressing surface 21 in an arc shape for finger pressing, the pressing feel can be improved by tightly adhering the sheet-like adhesive to the pressing surface 21. It should be noted that the thickness of the double-sided adhesive layer is chosen to be the same as the depth of the receiving cavity formed by the limiting portion 24, which can better achieve adhesion. The adhesive layer 50 can also be made of liquid adhesive, with some liquid adhesive entering the first through hole 22. Specifically, the liquid adhesive can be a type with high viscosity resistance, allowing it to partially enter the first through-hole 22 and completely solidify into a column before passing through it. This column is then fixedly connected to the sidewall of the first through-hole 22, increasing the bonding effect of the adhesive layer 50 and ensuring the entire adhesive layer 50 is completely fixed to the keycap 20. It should be noted that the adhesive layer 50 can be bonded using various adhesives, such as a combination of liquid adhesive and sheet adhesive, as long as it provides a reliable bond and air release effect.
[0060] In the above-described embodiment six, the keycap 20 further includes a second through hole, and the top waterproof layer 10 further includes a second bonding portion 12. The second through hole is disposed on the keycap sidewall 23 of the keycap 20. The second bonding portion 12 and the keycap sidewall 23 are bonded together with liquid adhesive, and some of the liquid adhesive enters into the second through hole. The second through hole being disposed on the keycap sidewall 23 facilitates the bonding between the second bonding portion 12 and the sidewall of the keycap 20. Furthermore, the liquid adhesive, as the bonding substance, can completely fix the entire adhesive layer 50 to the keycap 20. At the same time, the first through hole 22 and the second through hole are disposed in different directions, which creates an interlaced structural force between the adhesive layer 50 and the keycap 20, effectively preventing the adhesive layer 50 from falling off the keycap 20, thereby improving the actual service life of the adhesive layer 50.
[0061] like Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown in Embodiment 7 of this application, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a keyboard and a device body. The keyboard is any of the keyboards in Embodiments 1 to 6, and the keyboard and device body are connected by a signal. This keyboard configuration ensures the integrity of the waterproof layer's fit to the keycaps. The keycaps 20 have first through holes 22 machined on them, ensuring air venting when the first contact part 11 is in contact with the pressing surface 21. The micropores have extremely small diameters, leaving no visible traces. The keyboard and device body are connected by a signal. This electronic device can be a laptop, tablet, or other electronic device. The signal connection allows the keyboard to serve the electronic device, enabling it to perform its functions. The keyboard is portable and easy to move, and has good waterproof and dustproof capabilities, making it suitable for harsh environments and diverse living environments. It should be noted that the signal connection can be wireless, such as Bluetooth, which is more convenient; or it can be wired, using a data cable for signal interaction, resulting in more stable and convenient data transmission.
[0062] It should be noted that in the technical solution of Embodiment Seven, the keyboard also includes a second support structure 32, a touch module 60, a bottom mounting plate 70, and a bottom waterproof layer 80. Keycaps 20 are mounted on the keyboard module, and the keyboard module and touch module 60 are both mounted on the bottom mounting plate 70. The second support structure 32 is located between the top waterproof layer 10 and the first support structure 31. Since the top waterproof layer 10 is made of flexible material to increase the feel when pressing the keycaps 20, and the thinner top waterproof layer 10 is highly elastic and easily deformed, the second support structure 32 is provided for cushioning, thus supporting the top waterproof layer 10 and providing a certain degree of rigidity so that the top waterproof layer 10 can stretch better, achieving an aesthetically pleasing effect. The touch module 60 allows the electronic device to function as a mouse, enabling more functions through the keyboard. When the keyboard is used as an external keyboard for a laptop, the touch module 60 can replicate the laptop's touchpad, avoiding the laptop's heat affecting the keyboard's feel and increasing the keyboard's practicality. When used as an external keyboard for a tablet, the keyboard enhances its functionality. Most existing tablets can run Microsoft operating systems, and the touch module 60 adapts to these operating systems, transforming the tablet into a laptop. This configuration expands the electronic device's functionality and operational scope. The touch module 60 creates a wrist rest between the keycap area and the keyboard itself. This wrist rest supports the base of the palm during use, reducing pressure on the keycap area and extending the keyboard's lifespan. The keyboard also includes a bottom waterproof layer 80 that encloses the keyboard and adheres to a top waterproof layer 10. The top waterproof layer 10 is made of flexible materials, including PU, TPU, TPE, LSR, silicone, and rubber. The thickness of the top waterproof layer 10 ranges from 0.01mm to 0.2mm, allowing for precise structural control during the molding process and facilitating better keyboard assembly. The design of the waterproof layer also needs to consider the actual pressing feel of the keycap 20. When the thickness of the top waterproof layer 10 is between 0.01mm and 0.1mm, the addition of the top waterproof layer 10 will not affect the actual pressing feel of the keycap 20, and the top waterproof layer 10 within this range is easy to process and produce. Furthermore, when the thickness of the top waterproof layer 10 is between 0.01mm and 0.05mm, the thickness of the top waterproof layer 10 is further reduced, so that when it is fitted with the keycap 20, its elasticity is relatively greater, and it can better adapt to the size of the keycap 20.Specifically, in this embodiment, the thickness is set to 0.03mm. This setting makes the thickness of the top waterproof layer 10 moderate, improving its flexibility to facilitate a close fit with the keycaps 20. More flexible materials can better adapt to the pulling motion of the keycaps 20 during pressing, reducing the impact of the waterproof layer on the feel of the keycaps 20 when pressed. Thinner flexible materials are more difficult to process, resulting in higher production costs; thicker flexible materials are easier to process, but more expensive. Therefore, a moderate thickness balances processing difficulty and production costs. The bottom waterproof layer 80 is made of waterproof leather, textiles, or nano-fabric materials. The bottom waterproof layer 80 provides overall waterproofing to the bottom of the keyboard, fitting snugly against the top waterproof layer 10 to completely enclose the keyboard. This design makes the keyboard a unified whole; the top surface is waterproofed and dustproofed by the top waterproof layer 10, the bottom by the bottom waterproof layer 80, and the sides by a combination of the bottom and top waterproof layers 80.
[0063] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.
[0064] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the present invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features claimed herein.
Claims
1. A keyboard, characterized in that, include: The top waterproof layer (10) includes a first adhesive part (11), a second adhesive part (12) and a third adhesive part (13). The keycap (20) includes a pressing surface (21), a first through hole (22) and a keycap sidewall (23). The opening of the first through hole (22) is disposed in the pressing surface (21). The first fitting part (11) fits against the pressing surface (21), and the keycap sidewall (23) fits against the second fitting part (12). The support assembly (30) includes a first support structure (31), which is disposed between adjacent keycaps (20). The first support structure (31) is attached to the third fitting part (13). A receiving gap (40) is provided between the first support structure (31) and the vertical plane where the bottom side of the adjacent keycap (20) is located. When the keycap (20) is pressed, the deformation area of the top waterproof layer (10) is located within the receiving gap (40). The deformable area is the deformable part (14) of the top waterproof layer (10). The deformable part (14) includes a curved section (141) and a bent section (142) connected in sequence. The end of the curved section (141) away from the bent section (142) is connected to the second fitting part (12). The bent section (142) is connected to the third fitting part (13). When the keycap (20) is pressed, the deformable part (14) can be completely accommodated in the accommodating gap (40). The bent segment (142) can rotate around the connection point (131) between the bent segment (142) and the third fitting part (13).
2. The keyboard according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the keycap (20) is not pressed, the bent section (142) and the third fitting part (13) are located in the same plane, the bent section (141) is arc-shaped, and the bent section (141) is located on the side of the plane close to the keycap (20).
3. The keyboard according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the keycap (20) is not pressed, the second fitting part (12) is completely fitted with the side wall (23) of the keycap, and at least part of the deformable part (14) is located within the receiving gap (40).
4. The keyboard according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The keyboard also includes an adhesive layer (50), which is disposed between the pressing surface (21) and the first fitting part (11). The adhesive layer (50) is bonded to the pressing surface (21) and the first fitting part (11) respectively. There are multiple first through holes (22), and the central axis of each first through hole (22) is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the pressing surface (21). The cross-section of each first through hole (22) is circular, and the maximum size of the cross-section of the first through hole (22) is 0.05 to 0.2 mm.
5. The keyboard according to claim 4, characterized in that, The wall of the first through hole (22) is arranged in a straight line along the central axis; and / or, Along the direction away from the central axis of the pressing surface (21), the wall of the first through hole (22) gradually moves away from the central axis.
6. The keyboard according to claim 4, characterized in that, The keycap (20) also includes a limiting part (24) that surrounds the pressing surface (21) and forms a receiving cavity for the adhesive layer (50) with the pressing surface (21).
7. The keyboard according to claim 6, characterized in that, The adhesive layer (50) is a liquid glue or a sheet adhesive, and the first bonding part (11) and the pressing surface (21) are bonded together by the adhesive layer (50).
8. An electronic device, characterized in that, The electronic device includes a keyboard and a device body, wherein the keyboard is the keyboard according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and the keyboard is signal-connected to the device body.