Keyboard assembly with interchangeable keys and method of operating the same

Abstract

A keyboard assembly for a handheld device includes a housing having a first portion and a second portion. The keyboard assembly has a plurality of slots formed in the first portion. A printed circuit board (PCB) is disposed between the first and second portions. A keypad is sandwiched between the first portion and the PCB, the keypad having a plurality of fixed keys and a plurality of interchangeable keys, each key protruding from its corresponding slot in the first portion. Each of the plurality of interchangeable keys has an identification device configured to provide a unique identification to each interchangeable key, such that when each interchangeable key is replaced with another slot in the first portion, its unique identification remains for that interchangeable key.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a keyboard assembly having interchangeable keys, a handheld device including the keyboard assembly, and a method of operating a handheld device. Background Art

[0002] The following background discussion is intended only to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure. It should be understood that the discussion is not an admission or admission that any of the material referred to was published, known, or part of the common general knowledge of a person skilled in the art in any jurisdiction as of the priority date of the present invention.

[0003] The advent of broadband internet connections has led to the development of "streaming" media services that can provide on-demand content, such as movies, TV shows, music, and games, to consumers' media systems. In recent years, online streaming services (e.g., Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, HBO Max, etc.) have become popular among media consumers. Consumers typically subscribe to one or more online streaming services at the same time. Modern media systems (e.g., smart TVs) provide menus that can include menu icons that allow users to start streaming service applications (e.g., Netflix) by navigating using a remote control device included in the media system and clicking on a corresponding menu icon. With multiple subscriptions to streaming services, users must navigate the menus on the screen to find their favorite streaming service applications.

[0004] In recent years, more commercially available media systems have become available that offer streaming services using remote control devices. These remote control devices feature one or more pre-labeled shortcut buttons or keys, each corresponding to an online streaming service application. These shortcut buttons provide users with flexibility and convenience, allowing them to enjoy their favorite streaming services with a single click, without having to navigate on-screen menus. However, the form factor limits the number of shortcut buttons that can be included in a remote control device before the button layout becomes complex and ergonomically unsuitable. Depending on the form factor of the remote control device, there are typically two or four shortcut buttons. These shortcut buttons are often pre-labeled according to the media system provider's preferences. These pre-labeled shortcut buttons may not include all of the user's favorite streaming services. Users must navigate the media system's on-screen menus to find their preferred streaming services, which are not included in the shortcut buttons. Furthermore, users do not have the flexibility to rearrange these buttons to suit their preferences or replace them with different buttons that provide shortcuts to their favorite streaming services. This can lead to user frustration.

[0005] As described above, the shortcut buttons are pre-assigned or pre-labeled based on the preferences of the media system provider. This preference may be based on their negotiations and agreements with the streaming service provider or supplier and / or service, which may result in an increase in average revenue per user (ARPLI). The media system provider may discuss in detail with the remote control device supplier the details regarding the button arrangement, functionality, and fixing of the pre-labeled shortcut buttons before making the molds for the housing and button assembly of the remote control device. If there are any changes thereafter, the media system provider will typically only be able to accept printing on the button labels. As will be understood, any changes to the button arrangement, such as adding or removing buttons, may involve modifications to the molds, which will incur additional costs and delay the production of the remote control device. This may be a major commercial disadvantage for the media system provider. In addition, the media system provider does not have the flexibility to change pre-labeled shortcut buttons that become obsolete (e.g., the streaming service is no longer popular or goes out of business).

[0006] The shortcut button can also be used to provide convenience to the user by implementing multi-step functions of the media system, for example, setting control functions of multiple devices or turning on or off multiple devices in the media system in succession.

[0007] A device is needed to alleviate one or more of the above-mentioned problems. Another object of the present invention is to provide a more flexible way to allow users to change the button layout and / or change pre-labeled shortcut buttons to their preferred streaming services. It is also desirable to provide a media system provider with the commercial advantage of having the flexibility to configure the button layout; for example, to change the shortcut buttons for a streaming service provider or supplier, or to introduce new features to enhance the user's viewing experience, etc., even after the remote control device is manufactured.

[0008] Various approaches have been devised to provide interchangeable buttons or keys on remote control devices. One known method uses stickers placed above or adjacent to the buttons, and uses software programming to assign different functions to the buttons to correspond to the stickers. However, software programming can be a complex process for some users, and the stickers may fall off once the adhesive wears off.

[0009] Another known method involves providing programmable shortcut buttons with generic or non-descriptive labels, such as numbers or letters. However, the user is forced to memorize the function of each programmable button because the generic or non-descriptive labels do not provide any information about the function of each button. This can be a greater problem, especially if the remote control device is shared by multiple users.

[0010] There is also a known remote control device with configurable buttons. Embedded within each configurable button is an RFID chip or electrical component configured to correspond to the button label. Each button has a socket for conducting an electrical signal to identify the button from the RFID chip or electrical component when the inserted button is pressed. However, when the socket deteriorates due to dust, oxidation, or wear and tear from button presses, the electrical signal may degrade or become damaged over time. When pressing a button in such a remote control device, there may also be almost no tactile feel of the button. In addition, embedding an RFID chip in each button may be uneconomical, and the necessity of embedding an RFID chip or electrical component in each button may be expensive and labor-intensive. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The present disclosure is conceptualized to provide a keyboard assembly for a handheld device (eg, a remote control device) having interchangeable keys that can be customized according to a user's preferences.

[0012] In one aspect, a keyboard assembly for a handheld device is provided, comprising: a housing having a first portion and a second portion; a plurality of slots formed on the first portion; a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed between the first portion and the second portion; and a keypad sandwiched between the first portion and the PCB, the keypad having a plurality of fixed keys and a plurality of interchangeable keys, each key protruding from its corresponding slot on the first portion, wherein each of the plurality of interchangeable keys has an identification device configured to provide a unique identification to each interchangeable key, so that when each interchangeable key is replaced to another slot on the first portion, its unique identification remains for the interchangeable key.

[0013] In some embodiments, the identification means is a plurality of pins extending from each interchangeable key towards the PCB.

[0014] In some embodiments, the plurality of pins are configured to be selectively coated with a conductive material.

[0015] In some embodiments, the keymat includes a plurality of adapters, each adapter being sized and shaped to receive a corresponding interchangeable key.

[0016] In some embodiments, each of the interchangeable keys includes a key cover and a key base.

[0017] In some embodiments, the keycap has a plurality of keycap pins extending from a lower surface of the keycap.

[0018] In some embodiments, the key base has a plurality of bushings extending from a lower surface of the key base, each of the bushings having a bushing hole and adapted to receive a corresponding key cover pin.

[0019] In some embodiments, the sleeve is selectively coated with a conductive print to identify each interchangeable key.

[0020] In some embodiments, the key cover has a gap at an edge of the key cover.

[0021] In some embodiments, the keymat has protrusions formed on an underside of the keymat at the locations of the interchangeable keys, the protrusions being configured to abut a dome-shaped element provided on the PCB if a user actuates the interchangeable keys.

[0022] In some embodiments, the keyboard assembly further includes a plurality of contact nodes disposed on the PCB and aligned below a base of each sleeve, the sleeves being configured to contact the plurality of contact nodes when the interchangeable key is depressed.

[0023] In some embodiments, a plurality of contact nodes are disposed on the PCB and below the dome-shaped element.

[0024] In some embodiments, the key cap pin is arranged such that there is a gap between the tip of the key cap pin and the base of the sleeve.

[0025] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a handheld device including a keyboard assembly is provided.

[0026] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for operating a handheld device including a keyboard assembly is provided. The method includes the following steps: replacing an interchangeable key with another preferred interchangeable key on the handheld device to form a newly assembled interchangeable key; depressing the newly assembled interchangeable key so that a unique identifier of the interchangeable key is detected by a combination of a plurality of contact nodes and a plurality of pins; assigning a code to the newly assembled interchangeable key from a relevant database; assigning a corresponding command code to each code from a command code library; and sending the command code to a media device.

[0027] Other aspects and features of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of specific embodiments of the invention read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] In the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present disclosure are shown by way of example only.

[0029] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary multimedia environment in which embodiments of the present invention may be implemented;

[0030] Figure 2 is a top view of a handheld device (e.g., a remote control device) including a keyboard assembly;

[0031] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2An exploded perspective view of the main components of the remote control device;

[0032] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of the interchangeable key cluster, including an exploded perspective view of the interchangeable keys;

[0033] Figure 5A and Figure 5B is an exploded perspective view showing a key cover and a key base viewed from the top and bottom, respectively;

[0034] Figure 6 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of two exemplary interchangeable keys taken along line AA of FIG. 1 , thereby illustrating a view along the longitudinal center axis of the interchangeable keys;

[0035] Figure 7 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line BB of FIG. 1 , which deviates from the longitudinal center axis of the interchangeable key;

[0036] Figure 8A and Figure 8B is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of contact nodes and GPIOs according to the prior art, and Figure 8C is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of contact nodes and GPIOs according to the present invention;

[0037] Figure 9 is a schematic block diagram of a platform for a device having control functionality and an exemplary user interface with interchangeable keys; and

[0038] Figure 10 is a flow chart of the operation of a handheld device with interchangeable keys according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The present disclosure is conceptualized to provide a device that would allow a user or media system provider to customize the key arrangement of a remote control device by changing the pre-labeled keys to preference or replacing them with different keys altogether.

[0040] In order to illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the embodiments of the present disclosure are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the drawings referenced are some examples or embodiments of the present disclosure. A person of ordinary skill in the art can apply the present disclosure to other scenarios based on these drawings without further creative effort. For example, although these embodiments are described with respect to examples of handheld devices such as remote control devices in a streaming media environment, these embodiments can be applied to the control of any electronic device in any environment, for example, a keyboard for user input to a data processing system, a video game controller, a keyboard or integrated control buttons on a device; in any type of environment, for example, an information, multimedia, or entertainment system.

[0041] Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary multimedia environment in which an embodiment of the present invention may be implemented. In a non-limiting example, the multimedia environment 100 is an on-demand streaming content environment. The multimedia environment 100 may include one or more media systems 110. The media system 110 may include a display device 120, a media device 130, and a control device 140. The display device 120 may be, for example, a television, a monitor, or a projector. The media device 130 may be, for example, a streaming media player, a streaming media stick, a cable or satellite set-top box. The media device 130 may be pre-loaded with streaming content service applications from different streaming media service providers or suppliers (e.g., HBO Max, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video). The media device 130 and the display device 120 may be built into a single device (e.g., a smart TV).

[0042] The media devices 130 may be integrated with or operatively connected to their respective display devices 120, control devices 140, and / or networks 160. The media devices 130 may present user interface (UI) views, UI elements (e.g., menus and icons), and / or content on the display devices audibly and / or graphically. The streaming service applications executed on the media devices 130 may communicate with one or more content servers 170 via the network 160 to request and receive streaming services or content to be displayed on the display devices 120. The network 160 may include, for example, but not limited to, wired and / or wireless intranets, extranets, the Internet, cellular, fiber optic, coaxial cables, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and / or any other short-range, long-range, local, regional, global communication networks, and any combination thereof.

[0043] Each of the content servers 170 may include, for example, but not limited to, a database for storing content 172, metadata 174, and user data 176. Content 172 may include any combination of videos, movies, programs, music, images, multimedia, game applications, advertisements, software applications, and the like. Metadata 174 may include information about the content 172. For example, metadata 174 may include relevant information related to the content 172, such as director, actor, artist, summary, trailer, genre, and the like. User data 176 may include customer-specific information, such as user profile information, subscriptions, user logins, preferences, usage history, and the like.

[0044] User 150 can use control device 140 to interact with media system 110 to enjoy content. For example, a user can start a streaming service he or she subscribes to, such as Netflix, by navigating with control device 140 and clicking a corresponding menu icon displayed on display device 120. Upon receiving a signal from control device 140, media device 130 can send a command to network 160 to request that content from content server 170 be delivered to media system 110 for user consumption. In a preferred embodiment, control device 140 can include multiple pre-labeled shortcut keys, each of which corresponds to an online streaming service (e.g., Netflix). These shortcut keys provide users with flexibility and convenience, allowing them to enjoy their favorite streaming services at the click of a button.

[0045] Figure 2 is a top view of a handheld device such as a remote control device including a keyboard assembly. In some embodiments, the device 200 is Figure 1 10. The control device (e.g., remote control device 220) may typically include a plurality of standard navigation keys 230, such as four directional keys and an "OK," "BACK," "HOME," and "MENU" key, to name a few. The remote control device 220 may also typically be provided with a power key 240. In some embodiments, additional keys may be included in the remote control device 220, depending on the design choices of the media system provider. For example, a cable / internet provider may prefer to have additional keys, such as a volume key 250, a channel key 260, and number keys 270, for direct input when needed and for numeric responses to queries.

[0046] It is desirable to provide multiple shortcut keys for the remote control device 220 to allow the user to quickly and directly access different screen pages, functions, and activities. Preferably, the remote control device 220 is provided with a "streaming content service" key cluster 280 to allow the user to directly access preferred streaming content service applications. These shortcut keys in the cluster are typically two or four, depending on the form factor of the device 200. In a non-limiting example, the remote control device 220 includes a cluster of six streaming content service keys 281, 282, 283, 284, 285, 286, which can be pre-marked with services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, HBO Max, Hulu, and YouTube Premium, according to the preferences of the media system provider. In some embodiments, shortcut keys can be pre-marked with TV channels such as ESPN, FOX, NBC, CNN, etc.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the pre-labeled streaming content service key cluster 280 is interchangeable and customizable to accommodate the ever-changing environment of streaming content services. For example, providers may introduce new streaming content services, some services may become less popular or go out of business, or users may change their preferences or change their service subscriptions. Figure 3 5 describes the interchangeable streaming content service key cluster 280 in detail.

[0048] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an exemplary embodiment according to the present invention. Figure 2 1 and 2 are exploded perspective views of the major components of the remote control device. Each key in the interchangeable streaming content service key cluster 280 has a hard plastic keycap assembly that provides a top contact surface with a firm feel to the user. Only the keycap assemblies 381 and 382 of the content service keys 281 and 282 are shown in exploded perspective views to avoid cluttering the drawing.

[0049] The remote control device 220 includes a housing having a first portion 310 and a second portion 320 that, when assembled, forms a cavity for housing internal components. The internal components may include a printed circuit board (PCB) 360. The PCB 360 may have electronic circuitry (not shown) and one or more conductive layers (not shown). The electronic circuitry may include a processor coupled to a memory system, a wireless transceiver, a power regulator, etc. to control the operation of the remote control device 220 (in the Figure 9 described in more detail in ).

[0050] The first portion 310 is configured to house a user interface of the remote control device 220. The user interface has a keypad 330 (in the Figure 6 ), the user can press these buttons 370 during operation of the remote control device 220. Figure 3 In the embodiment shown, the operable keys 370 are configured to be fixed (ie, not interchangeable). The term "keypad" is used in Figure 3 2 is shown as a visual component of a set of depressible keys in the user interface of the remote control device 220, such as Figure 2 Shown are a navigation key 230, a volume key 250, a channel key 260, and a number key 270. The keypad 330 is preferably made of a soft elastic material such as silicone rubber.

[0051] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of the interchangeable key cluster, including an exploded perspective view of the interchangeable keys. The interchangeable streaming content service key cluster 280 preferably includes a plurality of keycap adapters 440 disposed on the key mat 330 (in Figure 6). The keycap adapter 440 can be supported and bonded to the keymat 330. The bond of the keycap adapter 440 to the keymat 330 can be made with an adhesive or in a two-shot molding process. The two-shot molding process is known in the art. The two-shot molding process is based on the difference in melting points of two different thermoplastic resins (in this case, the plastic keycap adapter and the rubber keymat). Alternatively, the keycap adapter 440 can be optional, and the keymat 330 can be molded with recesses and holes to accommodate the keycap tops 421, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 shown.

[0052] The keycap assembly 381 includes a keycap top 421 and a keycap adapter 440, which, when assembled, forms the interchangeable streaming content service key 281. Similarly, the keycap assembly 382 includes a keycap top 422 and a keycap adapter 440, which, when assembled, forms the interchangeable streaming content service key 282.

[0053] The keycap adapter 440 and the keycap top 421 can have edges of similar size that, when assembled, contact each other. The same is true for the key top 422 and the other key tops for the streaming keys 283, 284, 285, and 286. The keycap adapter 440 can be shaped with recesses and holes to accommodate the keycap top 421. The upper surface 430 of the keycap adapter 440 can have a plurality of through-holes 460 that are configured to accommodate an array of pins 580 protruding from the lower surface of the keycap top 421.

[0054] In some embodiments, the keycap top 421 and the keycap adapter 440 can be further secured with one or more fasteners, for example, by locking hooks, so that the keycap top 421 cannot be easily removed or dislodged by a child. Preferably, the keycap top 421 has a slit 590 on the side of the key cover for inserting a suitable tool, such as a screwdriver, to remove the keycap assembly 381 from the remote control device 220.

[0055] Figure 5A and Figure 5B5 is an exploded perspective view showing a key cap and a key base observed from the top and bottom, respectively. Key cap top 421 includes a key cap cover 510 and a key cap base 520, which form the key cap top 421 when assembled. The key cap cover 510, which is a part of the key cap top 421, is preferably made of hard plastic, which provides the user with a top contact surface with a firm feel. The key cap base 520 is preferably made of a soft elastic material such as silicone rubber. The key cap top 421 has an upper surface 530, which can preferably be pre-marked with the name, image, or logo of an online streaming content service or supplier. In some embodiments, it can be pre-marked with an image representing functions or commands such as settings, play, pause, fast forward, etc.

[0056] The lower surface of the keycap cover 510 may have one or more keycap pins 540 extending downward toward the PCB. In a preferred embodiment, each keycap cover 510 may have four keycap pins 540. The lower surface of the keycap base 520 may have one or more sleeves 550, each sleeve 550 having a sleeve hole 560 disposed on the upper surface of the keycap base 520 to accommodate the keycap pins 540. Each keycap pin 540 may be configured to be inserted into a corresponding sleeve hole 560 in the keycap base 520. The keycap pins 540 may preferably be cylindrical. The free end or distal end of the pin 540 may preferably be slightly rounded or provided with a beveled edge to facilitate insertion of the pin 540 into the sleeve hole 560. The distal end or free end of the sleeve 550 may optionally be coated or printed with a conductive print 570 to uniquely identify the pre-marked keycap top. When assembled, the keycap pins 540 and sleeves 550 (with optional conductive printing 570 on the ends of the sleeves 550 ) form an array of permutation pins 580 that uniquely identify the pre-marked keycap top 421 .

[0057] Figure 6 It is along Figure 2 FIG2 is a cross-sectional view of two exemplary interchangeable keys taken along line AA of FIG2 , thereby illustrating a view along the longitudinal center axis of the interchangeable keys. Although different keys may be used to describe exemplary embodiments of the present invention in order to avoid obscuring the drawings, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto and may be applied to other interchangeable streaming content service key clusters 280.

[0058] The housing of the remote control device 220 includes a first portion 310 and a second portion (not shown). The housing is configured to house a PCB 360 and a keypad 330. The keypad 330 may be disposed on an upper surface of the PCB 360. The keypad 330 may preferably be made of a soft, resilient material such as silicone rubber. The keypad 330 may be molded to form a plurality of individually operable keys 370 that a user may depress during operational use of the remote control device 220, such as, for example, Figure 2 The illustrated navigation keys 230, volume keys 250, channel keys 260, and number keys 270 are shown. The interchangeable streaming content service key cluster 280 preferably includes a plurality of plastic keycap adapters 440 disposed on the upper surface of the keymat 330. The keycap adapters 440 can be supported and bonded to the upper surface of the keymat 330 using a suitable adhesive, or molded together with the keymat 330 in a two-shot injection molding process.

[0059] The interchangeable keys 285 and 286 have keycap tops 425 and 426, respectively, whose upper surfaces are uniquely pre-marked. The keycap tops include a keycap cover 510 and a keycap base 520, which when assembled form the keycap cover 510 as described above. Figure 5A and 5B The keycap top is shown. The keycap top may preferably have a generally rectangular shape with a slightly rounded top surface that follows the surface contour of the remote control device 220.

[0060] The keypad 330 can be configured to provide a predetermined necessary amount of elasticity required to provide an expected amount of key feel when a key is pressed. A plurality of plungers 620 are formed on the underside of the keypad 330 at each individual interchangeable streaming content service key cluster 280. The PCB 360 can preferably have a plurality of dome-shaped structures 640 disposed therein, centered directly below each plunger 620. The dome-shaped structures 640 are conductive and are preferably made of stainless steel. The plungers 620 can preferably be generally cylindrical or conical with a flat surface at their ends and are arranged to be disposed with a small gap above each dome-shaped structure 640. Therefore, when a key is pressed, the plunger 620 moves downward and bends the dome-shaped structure 640, thereby achieving a tactile sensation.

[0061] Figure 7 It is along Figure 25 , which is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of FIG. 5 , offset from the longitudinal center axis of the interchangeable key. Arrangement pins 580 (see also FIG. 5 ), comprising an assembly of keycap pins 540 and sleeves 550, extend downward from the lower surfaces of keycap tops 421 and 422 toward the PCB. The number of pins in the array may depend on the available area on the interchangeable key to accommodate the pins and the design complexity of the key. In a preferred embodiment, each key may preferably have an array of four arrangement pins 580. The ends of the arrangement pins 580 may be selectively coated or printed with a conductive print 570 to identify a unique pre-marked keycap top. For example, the ends of arrangement pins 580A, 580B, and 580C may be coated or printed with a conductive print. The end of arrangement pin 580D is not coated with the conductive print 570. Thus, one or more arrangement pins 580 are different for each keycap top. In this non-limiting example, a total of 16 uniquely pre-marked keycap tops are available and are immutable for the user to install or exchange any key with a suitable adaptive surface anywhere on the remote control device 220 .

[0062] The PCB 360 may preferably have a plurality of conductive contact nodes 780 disposed therein and centered directly below each of the arrangement pins 580. When the interchangeable streaming content service key is pressed, the arrangement pin 580 moves downward and contacts the contact nodes 780. Thus, electrical contact is formed in such a configuration that the selective arrangement pins with the conductive print 570 operate the "ON / OFF" control of the contact formed by the contact nodes 780 therein.

[0063] It should be noted that electrical contact is made at the selective contact nodes and that the dome-shaped structure 640 is bent by the plunger 620, thereby producing a tactile sensation when the key is pressed, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 and Figure 7 shown.

[0064] A contact node 680 may be provided on the PCB 360, centered directly below the dome-shaped structure 640 of each plunger 620 to enhance detection of each unique identifier on the top of the interchangeable keycap. Figure 7 As shown, the length of the keycap pin 540 is designed to leave a gap between the end of the keycap pin 540 and the sleeve 550 to further enhance the click feeling.

[0065] exist Figure 7 In the non-limiting example shown, a closed circuit is formed at the contact nodes due to the conductive print 570, resulting in an "ON" state at 780A, 780B, and 780C. At the contact node 780D, an open circuit is formed, resulting in an "OFF" state, because the end of the alignment pin 580D is not coated with the conductive print 570.

[0066] For example, keycap top 421 of interchangeable key 281 can be pre-marked with Netflix, while keycap top 422 at interchangeable key 282 can be pre-marked with Disney Plus, thereby creating the "ON / OFF" states described above. With keycap tops 421 and 422 swapped to the positions of interchangeable keys 282 and 281, respectively, an "ON" state is established at 780A, 780C, and 780D, while an "OFF" state is established at 780B. The change in state is detected by a processor (not shown), which interprets it as interchangeable key 281 is now marked as Disney Plus and key 282 is now marked as Netflix, and the appropriate remote control commands need to be sent.

[0067] Thus, the arrangement pins 580 with the selective conductive print 570 and the contact nodes 780 provide identification of the interchangeable keycaps. In this non-limiting example, four different "ON / OFF" states are transmitted to the processor as four binary states by each interchangeable key having a uniquely pre-marked keycap top. More specifically, a unique code can be assigned to represent each uniquely pre-marked keycap top. In this example, there are 16 unique codes available. Each code with corresponding information and function of the uniquely pre-marked keycap top can be stored in a correlation data table or database. For example, code 01 can represent the Netflix service and its corresponding IR or RF key code for launching the application, code 02 can represent Hulu, etc. Preferably, a correlation database can be provided in the memory system of the remote control device 220. In some embodiments, as Figure 1 As shown, a relevant database may be provided in the media device 130 .

[0068] The present invention, which may be implemented in the manner described above, provides several advantages. A more flexible way is provided to allow users to change the key layout and / or change pre-labeled shortcut keys to their favorite streaming services. Additionally, the media system provider has the commercial advantage and flexibility to configure the key layout, including changing the shortcut keys for streaming service providers or suppliers that may have become more popular or obsolete, and may even configure them on the remote control device after the remote control device is manufactured. Additionally, cable / internet providers such as Spectrum, Cox Communications, and others may promote special or commemorative events such as the Olympics, FIFA World Cup, etc. on channels such as ESPN, FOX, NBC, and others by providing interchangeable shortcut keys that allow users to access applications directly with the click of a button.

[0069] Another advantage of the present invention is that the alignment pin 580 is an assembly of a keycap pin 540 formed from a plastic keycap and a sleeve 550 formed from a soft elastomeric material that is sized to fit within the through-hole 460 in the keycap adapter 440. This prevents a "see-saw" effect or "rocking" along the longitudinal center axis of the interchangeable key cluster 280. The keycap pin provides structural reinforcement to the alignment pin, which may be desirable in certain high-use applications where the sleeve design can reduce fatigue and enhance click feel.

[0070] Figure 8A and Figure 8B is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of contact nodes and general purpose input / output (GPIO) according to the prior art, and Figure 8C is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of contact nodes and GPIOs according to the present invention.

[0071] Figure 8A Keys 810 and 820 are shown, each having four (4) contact nodes 802 disposed on a PCB. As described above, the ON / OFF state of the contact nodes 802 is determined by the arrangement of pins having selective conductive printing. This detection mechanism is disadvantageous because it requires a product of each contact node and the number of interchangeable keys. In the non-limiting example of the present disclosure having six (6) interchangeable keys, twenty-four (24) GPIOs would be required.

[0072] Figure 8B Keys 830 and 840 are shown, each having four (4) contact nodes 804 disposed on the PCB. Figure 8A Compared to the mechanism in , the number of GPIOs required in this mechanism is less, namely ten (10) in total. However, this detection mechanism is disadvantageous because it is prone to "ghost keys" whereby if three contact nodes are a closed circuit, the state of the fourth contact node cannot be determined.

[0073] Figure 8C Another advantage of the present invention is that the number of input ports or GPIOs required on the processor is independent of the number of interchangeable keys. Figure 8C Keys 850 and 860 are shown, each with four (4) contact nodes 806 disposed on the PCB. Only four (4) GPIOs are required per key for the detection mechanism, and this is independent of the number of interchangeable keys. Thus, this detection mechanism greatly reduces the constraints imposed on the processor in terms of the number of GPIOs required.

[0074] Figure 9 is a schematic block diagram of a platform for a device having control functionality and an exemplary user interface with interchangeable keys. For example, platform 900 may be used to implement Figure 1 The control device 140 or Figure 10 Various embodiments may be implemented using one or more components of platform 900, such as device 200.

[0075] The platform 900 preferably includes a processor 910 coupled to a memory system 920, a transceiver 930, an input device 940, an output device 950, and a power supply 960. The processor 910, e.g., a CPU, an ASIC, an FPGA, a microcontroller, etc., can be programmed to control various electronic components within the platform 900, for example, to monitor power, interpret user input (e.g., key presses), and provide user output (e.g., visual display, audible alarm), and cause the sending and receiving of control signals, etc.

[0076] The input device 940 may include a key matrix of tactile buttons, touch-sensitive buttons, or a combination thereof, one or more sensors (e.g., microphones, pressure sensors, etc.) for receiving input from the user. In this exemplary platform, one or more tactile buttons may be customizable. Preferably, the input device 940 may include a contact pad matrix for detecting the identity of the customizable buttons. The output device 950 may include one or more indicator lights, a buzzer, a speaker, a small display for displaying text information. The power supply 960 may include a battery or an external power source, for example, powered by or by Figure 1 The media device 130 is powered via a DC adapter with appropriate wiring.

[0077] The platform 900 includes a transceiver 930 that is configured to be communicatively coupled, directly or indirectly, to other devices, systems, or networks. The transceiver 930 may be adapted to communicate with Figure 1 The transceiver 930 can communicate with the media device 110 and / or the display device 120 in the display device 110 to provide remote control functions, exchange information and / or receive upgrade data. The transceiver 930 can use any suitable wired or various custom or standard wireless protocols for data communication, such as infrared (IR) and radio frequency (RF) (e.g., IEEE 802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, Bluetooth low energy, etc.), or any other suitable communication protocol (including communication protocols not yet developed as of the filing date of this application) for data communication.

[0078] The processor 910 may be controlled by software or control logic. The software may include routines, programs, objects, components, and / or data structures that perform specific tasks or applications. The memory system 920 may include executable instructions and software intended to be executed by the processor 910. The memory system 920 may include a command code library for controlling the operation of appliances such as the media device 130, the display device 120, or devices of different brands, models, and types. In addition, the memory system 920 may include a correlation data table or database of all identification values and corresponding functions for customizable keys. Preferably, the command code library and the correlation database may be stored in the non-volatile read / write memory of the memory system 920. When the transceiver 930 receives upgrade data, the command code library and / or the correlation database may be upgraded. The correlation database may be upgraded to include: new functions or features added by the media system provider during the product life cycle, the introduction of new streaming content services, the removal of outdated content services, the presence of rarely used features that are only important to a very small subset of users, etc.

[0079] Figure 10 is a flow chart of the operation of a handheld device with interchangeable keys according to an embodiment. In a preferred embodiment, the device is a remote control device provided by a media system provider, characterized by fixed keys and a plurality of interchangeable keys. These interchangeable keys can be pre-labeled to launch a streaming content service application directly on the media system (see also Figure 1 ).

[0080] The user may wish to change the arrangement of the interchangeable keys or replace them with new keycap tops. The user may obtain one or more new interchangeable keycap tops that were not originally provided by the media system provider. For example, the keycap tops may be provided when the user obtains the media system, delivered to the user when the user subscribes to a new content service, purchased by the user from a third party, or delivered to the user by the media system provider to encourage the user to use a new content service or new features, or to promote a special or commemorative event such as the Olympic Games, the FIFA World Cup, etc.

[0081] In step 1010, the user replaces one or more keycap tops initially provided on the remote control device with preferred keycap tops at any given time and in any order.

[0082] In step 1020, when a user presses a newly assembled interchangeable key, the identity of the key is configured to be detected by contacting the matrix of nodes and arranged pins. Figure 7For example, the ON / OFF state of the contact node is manipulated by the arrangement pin and then transmitted to the remote control device. Therefore, each time the user presses the interchangeable key, the function and characteristics of each key on the panel will be identified. Preferably, the newly assembled interchangeable key can be pressed for a fixed time period and released when prompted by an output indicator (e.g., a light or a buzzer) of the remote control device. This allows the remote control device to perform settings to identify the identity of the newly assembled interchangeable key in the first case, so that the identification process does not need to be repeated when the interchangeable key is pressed in the future.

[0083] In step 1030, a unique code is configured to be assigned to represent each interchangeable key. Figure 10 For example, each code may include the corresponding information and function of the top of a unique keycap and be configured to be stored in a related database in the remote control device. A command code library may also be provided in the remote control device, and a corresponding command code may be assigned to each unique code for the purpose of controlling the operation of the appliance. For example, for starting Figure 1 In some embodiments, a relevant database may be provided in the media device 130.

[0084] In step 1040, the remote control device transmits a corresponding command code in a signal recognizable by the media device to cause the media device to perform an action, such as, for example, launching a streaming media content service application. In some embodiments, the remote control device may transmit a unique code corresponding to the key press in a signal recognizable by the media device. The media device may then identify the received code and the corresponding function and feature from a related database stored in the media device.

[0085] In step 1050 , the media device performs the indicated action based on the received signal, for example, sending a command to the network to request content from a content server of a corresponding content service provider.

[0086] It will now be apparent that the keyboard assembly with interchangeable keys has been described in the specification with sufficient specificity for those skilled in the art to understand. Furthermore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications, variations, substitutions, and equivalents exist to the features of the device without materially departing from the scope of the invention.

[0087] Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that variations and combinations (not substitutions or replacements) of the above-described features may be combined to form additional embodiments that fall within the intended scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A keyboard assembly for a handheld device, comprising: a housing having a first portion and a second portion; a plurality of grooves formed on the first portion; a printed circuit board (PCB), the PCB being disposed between the first portion and the second portion; a key mat sandwiched between the first portion and the PCB, the key mat having a plurality of fixed keys and a plurality of interchangeable keys, each key protruding from a corresponding slot on the first portion, each of the interchangeable keys comprising a key cover and a key base, wherein each of the plurality of interchangeable keys has a plurality of pins extending from each interchangeable key toward the PCB configured to provide a unique identification to each interchangeable key, such that in the event that each interchangeable key is replaced with another slot on the first portion, the unique identification remains for the interchangeable key, and wherein the ends of the plurality of pins are configured to be selectively coated with a conductive material.

2. The keyboard assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The keymat includes a plurality of adapters, each adapter being sized and shaped to receive a corresponding interchangeable key.

3. The keyboard assembly according to claim 1, wherein The key cover has a plurality of key cover pins extending from a lower surface of the key cover.

4. The keyboard assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The key base has a plurality of bushings extending from a lower surface of the key base, each of the bushings having a bushing hole therein and adapted to receive a corresponding key cover pin.

5. The keyboard assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The ends of the sleeves are selectively coated with a conductive print to identify each interchangeable key.

6. The keyboard assembly of claim 5, further comprising a plurality of contact nodes disposed on the PCB and aligned below a base of each sleeve, the sleeve being configured to contact the plurality of contact nodes when the interchangeable key is depressed.

7. The keyboard assembly according to claim 6, further comprising a microcontroller, wherein the microcontroller comprises an input port for detecting a closed or open state (ON / OFF) of the contact node; The arrangement of the contact nodes and the arrangement of the input ports of the microcontroller are independent of the number of the plurality of interchangeable keys.

8. The keyboard assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The keymat has a protrusion formed on an underside of the keymat at a location of the interchangeable key, the protrusion being configured to abut a dome-shaped element provided on the PCB when the interchangeable key is actuated by a user.

9. The keyboard assembly of claim 8, further comprising a plurality of contact nodes disposed on the PCB and aligned below a base of each sleeve, wherein each sleeve is configured to contact the plurality of contact nodes when the interchangeable key is depressed.

10. The keyboard assembly of claim 9, further comprising a contact node disposed below the dome-shaped element.

11. The keyboard assembly according to claim 4, wherein: Each key cap pin is arranged such that there is a gap between the distal end of each key cap pin and the base of the sleeve.

12. The keyboard assembly according to claim 1, wherein The key cover has a gap at an edge of the key cover.

13. A handheld device comprising the keyboard assembly according to claim 1.

14. A method of operating the handheld device of claim 13, comprising the steps of: (i) replacing an interchangeable key with another preferred interchangeable key on the handheld device to form a newly assembled interchangeable key; (ii) depressing the newly assembled interchangeable key such that the unique identifier of the interchangeable key is detected by a combination of the plurality of contact nodes and the plurality of pins; (iii) assigning a code to the newly assembled interchangeable key from a relevant database; (iv) assigning a corresponding command code to each code from a command code library; as well as (v) Sending the command code to the media device.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the newly assembled interchangeable key can be pressed for a fixed period of time and released when prompted by an output indicator of the handheld device.

Images