Keyboard and key structure capable of being pressed down for same

Abstract

The invention relates to a key structure capable of being pressed down for a keyboard and the keyboard. The key structure includes upper and lower key levers, a rotatable intermediate key lever including a magnetizing element disposed therein, the rotatable intermediate key lever coupled between and axially aligned with the upper and lower key levers, and a magnetic field generator coupled to the rotatable intermediate key lever. The magnetic field generator is configured to direct a magnetic field through the magnetizing element of the rotatable intermediate key rod. The rotatable intermediate key lever is operable to be longitudinally rotatable between a first position and a second position while the upper key lever and the lower key lever are rotationally fixed. The generated magnetic field applies a first magnetic force to the magnetizing element at a first setting to rotate the intermediate key rod to a first position, and applies a second magnetic force to the magnetizing element at a second setting to rotate the intermediate key rod to a second position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to computer peripherals, and more particularly to systems and methods for automatic rotation of adjustable key switches. Background Art

[0002] Input devices are common in modern society and are typically used to convert human-induced analog input (e.g., touch, click, motion, touch gesture, button press, scroll wheel rotation, etc.) performed in conjunction with the input device into digital signals for computer processing. An input device may include any device that can provide data and control signals to a computing system. Some non-limiting examples of input devices include a computer mouse, keyboard, virtual reality and / or augmented reality controller, touchpad, remote control, game controller, joystick, trackball, etc. Some non-limiting examples of computing systems include desktop computers, laptop computers, notebook computers, game consoles, tablet computers and "tablet" computers, smart phones, personal digital assistants, wearable devices (e.g., smart watches, glasses), virtual reality (VR) and / or augmented reality (AR) headsets and systems, etc.

[0003] In particular, keyboards have undergone many significant improvements over the past several decades. In some contemporary input devices, keyboards can take the form of independent wired or wireless input controllers or be integrated with portable electronic devices, such as laptop computing devices and tablet computing devices. Although input feedback mechanisms are different in conventional design, each key of a keyboard is usually designed to provide a positive confirmation that a key has been actuated to the user. These input feedback mechanisms can be substantially different. For example, the feedback mechanism for a basic thin keyboard may only include a dome switch or a scissor mechanism for each key, while more mechanical keyboards may include a spring mechanism that provides a certain amount of linear feedback before actuation. Unfortunately, considering a large number of users, it is difficult to design a keyboard that is very suitable for a wide range of users. It is desirable to have a better design that can adapt to different user preferences and support more general appeals. Summary of the invention

[0004] In some embodiments, a depressible key structure for a keyboard includes: an upper key rod; a lower key rod; a rotatable middle key rod, the rotatable middle key rod including a magnetized element disposed therein, the rotatable middle key rod being coupled between the upper key rod and the lower key rod and axially aligned with the upper key rod and the lower key rod, the rotatable middle key rod including a protrusion, wherein the rotatable middle key rod is operable to be able to rotate longitudinally between a first position and a second position while the upper key rod and the lower key rod remain longitudinally stationary; a biasing element configured to be adjacent to the middle key rod; a U-shaped metal rod having a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being configured to be adjacent to the middle key rod and located on opposite sides of the middle key rod; and a coil having a first side and a On the second side, the coil is connected to the metal rod, and the coil is capable of operating to generate a magnetic field when energized by a power source, wherein the metal rod conducts the magnetic field from the first side of the coil to the first end of the metal rod, to the magnetized element of the rotatable middle key rod, to the second end of the metal rod and to the second side of the coil, thereby forming a magnetic circuit, wherein the generated magnetic field magnetically manipulates the magnetized element to rotate the middle key rod to a first position when in a first setting, in which the biasing element engages with the protrusion when the key structure is pressed to generate a first feedback effect, and wherein the generated magnetic field magnetically manipulates the magnetized element to rotate the middle key rod to a second position when in a second setting, in which the biasing element bypasses the protrusion when the key structure is pressed to generate a second feedback effect.

[0005] In some embodiments, the key structure further comprises one or more processors operable to control a current flowing through the coil, the current comprising a first current setting the generated magnetic field to a first setting and a second current setting the generated magnetic field to a second setting. The current flowing through the coil can set the strength and polarity of the generated magnetic field. The key structure may include a keycap configured to be coupled to the upper key rod in a complementary friction fit relationship. In some aspects, when the middle key rod rotates between the first position and the second position, the upper key rod remains longitudinally stationary. The first feedback effect may be a click-type feedback effect caused primarily by the movement of the biasing element on the profile of the protrusion. In some aspects, the biasing element may be a torsion spring. The key structure may also include a second biasing element (e.g., a coil spring, a coil compression spring) that provides a restoring force that moves the key structure from a depressed position to an undepressed position, wherein the second feedback effect is a linear feedback caused primarily by the restoring force of the second biasing element. In certain embodiments, the lower key bar includes a slotted region having a first wall and a second wall, wherein the rotatable middle key bar includes a second protrusion configured to slide within the slotted region when the rotatable middle key bar moves between the first position and the second position, wherein when the second protrusion is configured to abut against the first wall within the slotted region when the rotatable middle key bar is in the first position, the first wall of the slotted region is operable to prevent further longitudinal rotation of the rotatable middle key bar in the direction of the first wall, and wherein when the second protrusion is configured to abut against the second wall within the slotted region when the rotatable middle key bar is in the second position, the second wall of the slotted region is operable to prevent further longitudinal rotation of the rotatable middle key bar in the direction of the second wall. In some cases, the slotted region includes a laterally protruding protrusion configured between the first wall and the second wall, the protrusion preventing movement of the rotatable middle key bar between the first position and the second position, wherein the rotatable middle key bar moves between the first position and the second position when the magnetic field is at the first setting and above a threshold magnetic field strength or when the magnetic field is at the second setting and above a threshold magnetic field strength. In some embodiments, the first end and the second end of the U-shaped metal bar include lateral extensions that reduce the distance from the U-shaped metal bar to the rotatable intermediate key rod. In certain embodiments, the magnetized element is a ferromagnetic block.

[0006] In some embodiments, the key structure includes: an upper key rod; a lower key rod; a rotatable intermediate key rod including a magnetized element disposed therein, the rotatable intermediate key rod being coupled between the upper key rod and the lower key rod and axially aligned with the upper key rod and the lower key rod, wherein the rotatable intermediate key rod is operable to be longitudinally rotatable between a first position and a second position, wherein the upper key rod and the lower key rod are rotationally fixed; a magnetic field generator configured to direct a magnetic field through the magnetized element of the rotatable intermediate key rod, wherein the generated magnetic field exerts a first magnetic force on the magnetized element when in a first setting to rotate the intermediate key rod to the first position, and wherein the generated magnetic field exerts a second magnetic force on the magnetized element when in a second setting to rotate the intermediate key rod to the second position. The key structure may also include one or more processors and a coil operable to generate the generated magnetic field, wherein the one or more processors are operable to control a current flowing through the coil, the current including a first current that sets the generated magnetic field to the first setting and a second current that sets the generated magnetic field to the second setting. In some embodiments, the upper key rod remains longitudinally stationary when the middle key rod rotates between the first position and the second position. The rotatable middle key rod may include a protrusion, wherein the biasing element is configured to be adjacent to the middle key rod, wherein, in the first position, the biasing element engages with the protrusion when the key structure is depressed to produce a first feedback effect, and wherein, in the second position, the biasing element bypasses the protrusion when the key structure is depressed to produce a second feedback effect. In some cases, the first feedback effect is a click-type feedback effect caused primarily by the movement of the biasing element on the contour of the protrusion. The key structure may also include a second biasing element that provides a restoring force that moves the key structure from the depressed position to the undepressed position, wherein the second feedback effect is a linear feedback caused primarily by the restoring force of the second biasing element.

[0007] In other embodiments, the keyboard includes one or more processors, a plurality of depressible key structures, each key structure including: an upper key rod; a lower key rod; a rotatable middle key rod including a magnetized element disposed therein, the rotatable middle key rod being coupled between the upper key rod and the lower key rod and axially aligned with the upper key rod and the lower key rod, the rotatable middle key rod including a protrusion, wherein the rotatable middle key rod is operable to be able to rotate longitudinally between a first position and a second position while the upper key rod and the lower key rod remain longitudinally stationary; a biasing element configured to be adjacent to the middle key rod; a U-shaped metal rod having a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being configured to be adjacent to the middle key rod and located on opposite sides of the middle key rod; and a coil having a first side and a second side. On two sides, a coil is connected to a metal rod, and the coil is capable of operating to generate a magnetic field when energized by a power source, wherein the generated magnetic field magnetically manipulates the magnetized element to rotate the middle key rod to a first position when in a first setting, in which the biasing element engages with the protrusion when the key structure is pressed to produce a first feedback effect, wherein the generated magnetic field magnetically manipulates the magnetized element to rotate the middle key rod to a second position when in a second setting, in which the biasing element does not engage with the protrusion when the key structure is pressed to produce a second feedback effect, and wherein one or more processors are capable of operating to control the current flowing through each coil of a plurality of depressible key structures, the current including a first current that sets the generated magnetic field to the first setting and a second current that sets the generated magnetic field to the second setting.

[0008] The terms and expressions that have been adopted are used as terms of description rather than limitation, and it is not intended that the use of such terms and expressions exclude any equivalents of the features shown and described, or portions thereof. However, it is recognized that various modifications may be made within the scope of the claimed system and method. Therefore, although the present system and method have been specifically disclosed by way of examples and optional features, those skilled in the art should recognize modifications and variations of the concepts disclosed herein, and such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of the system and method defined by the appended claims.

[0009] This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of the disclosure, any or all drawings, and each claim.

[0010] The foregoing features and examples, as well as other features and examples, will be described in more detail in the following description, claims and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

[0012] Figure 1 An example of a computer system is shown that may include any of a variety of host computing devices and computer peripherals, including computer peripherals (e.g., keyboards) that may be configured to perform aspects of the various inventive concepts described herein;

[0013] Figure 2 A system for operating a computer peripheral device according to some embodiments is shown;

[0014] Figure 3 is a simplified block diagram of a host computing device according to certain embodiments;

[0015] Figure 4A An exploded perspective view of a manually adjustable key switch system that can produce a feedback profile is shown;

[0016] Figure 4B shows a perspective view of a manually adjustable key bar configured with three different protrusions offset by approximately 90 degrees in the radial direction;

[0017] Figure 5 shows an example of an automatically adjustable key switch according to certain embodiments;

[0018] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C shows an operating sequence of an automatically adjustable key switch according to certain embodiments;

[0019] Figure 7 shows an exploded view of an automatically adjustable key switch according to certain embodiments;

[0020] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C illustrates operational aspects of different feedback settings for an automatically adjustable key switch according to certain embodiments;

[0021] FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B illustrates aspects of keybar retention according to certain embodiments;

[0022] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B Various aspects of improving magnetic circuit efficiency according to certain embodiments are shown; and

[0023] Fig.11 is a simplified flow chart illustrating aspects of a method for automating rotation of an adjustable key switch according to certain implementations.

[0024] Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are generally used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] According to certain implementations, aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to computer peripherals, and more particularly to systems and methods for automatic rotation of adjustable key switches.

[0026] In the following description, various examples of automatically adjusting feedback settings for adjustable key switches are described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that certain embodiments may be practiced or implemented without disclosing every detail. In addition, well-known features may be omitted or simplified to alleviate any confusion about the novel features described herein.

[0027] The following high-level overview is intended to provide a basic understanding of some of the novel innovations depicted in the accompanying drawings and presented in the corresponding description provided below. According to certain embodiments, aspects of the present invention are directed to automating the rotation of an adjustable key switch. Tactile feedback on the keys of a computer peripheral device such as a keyboard can be very subjective to the user, and different types of key press feedback distributions (e.g., clicky, linear, tactile, etc.) can be found on a variety of keyboard types including gaming keyboards, productivity keyboards, ergonomic keyboards, etc. Therefore, conventional keyboards typically have keys and corresponding key switches with one type of key press feedback, thereby requiring the user to invest in multiple keyboards if certain types of feedback are preferred for different activities, such as productivity tasks versus gaming. In some contemporary computer peripherals, key switches can be manually replaced, where a user can replace the key switch structure with a key switch structure having a preferred key depression feedback distribution, or in some cases, the key switches can be manually adjusted, where a user can remove the keycap for each key and manually modify (e.g., rotate) each key structure to obtain a different feedback distribution type, as found in some Logitech keyboards (see, e.g., U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 189,698, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes). Although the ability to manually change the key switch feedback distribution can accommodate a wider range of users and applications, the task of manually replacing or adjusting more than 100 keys can be very tedious, labor intensive, and time consuming in some cases. Moreover, the concept of switching feedback distributions to better accommodate different applications is not actually tenable, especially during the same time period. Thus, the value of a system such as the novel embodiments described herein that can automatically adjust (e.g., rotate) one or more key switches to set different feedback profiles without requiring manual interaction (e.g., removing / replacing keycaps, rotating or replacing key switches, etc.) can be understood to lie not only in the time savings of not having to manually change anything, but also in the possibility of automatically and simultaneously doing so for some or all of the keys on a computer peripheral device, thereby making it possible to switch feedback profiles multiple times in a period of time (e.g., for specific application purposes).

[0028] Some embodiments can automatically adjust the feedback profile of one or more key switches in a computer peripheral device by rotating an internal portion of a key structure via magnetic control, which changes the feedback profile without rotating the keycap. Thus, a user can switch to two or more different feedback profiles without affecting the layout of the keys (e.g., the keycaps and corresponding indicia will not change their orientation). An example of a system for automatically adjusting the feedback profile for a key switch is described in Figure 5 and together with its variant embodiments are shown in FIG. 6A to FIG. 10B. To provide a high level explanation of some of the novel embodiments described herein, a key switch may include a rotatable central portion having a plurality of configurations, wherein each configuration has an associated feedback distribution that may be achieved by interaction between a biasing mechanism and a profile (e.g., a protrusion) on the central portion, as further described in more detail below. Different profiles allow for different feedback distributions, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. The central portion may rotate while a top portion coupled to the keycap may remain stationary. Rather than manually rotating the central portion to switch between feedback distributions, a magnetic circuit, typically including a power source, a coil, and a ferromagnetic conductor, may generate a magnetic field directed through the central portion of the key switch. The central portion typically has a magnetized element, such as a metal block, that is pushed or pulled by the magnetic field, thereby rotating the central portion. In addition to other concepts and embodiments more fully described and explored throughout this disclosure, some additional novel features may be used to ensure that the central portion remains in a particular orientation (and corresponding feedback distribution) without unintentionally moving (see, e.g. FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B ) to increase the strength of the magnetic field (see e.g. FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B ), and causing some or all of the central portions of the plurality of key switches to rotate simultaneously.

[0029] It should be understood that this high-level overview is presented to provide the reader with a basic understanding of some novel aspects of the present disclosure and a road map to the details that follow. This high-level overview in no way limits the scope of the various embodiments described throughout the detailed description, and each of the figures mentioned above is further described below in more detail and within their proper scope.

[0030] Figure 1 An example of a computer system 100 is shown, which may include any of a variety of host computing devices and computer peripherals, including computer peripherals (e.g., computer mice, keyboards, etc.) that may be configured to perform aspects of the various inventive concepts described herein. The computer system 100 shows a user 105 operating a host computing device (shown as a desktop computer) 110 and a plurality of computer peripherals that may be coupled to and / or integrated with the host computing device, including a display device 120, a computer mouse 130, a keyboard 140, and the plurality of computer peripherals may include any other suitable computer peripherals (e.g., microphones, speakers, docking stations, headphones, etc.). Each of the computer peripherals 120-140 may be communicatively coupled to the host computing device 110.

[0031] Although the host computing device is shown as a desktop computer, other types of host computing devices may be used, including gaming systems, laptop computers, set-top boxes, entertainment systems, tablet computers or "tablet" computers, stand-alone head-mounted displays ("HMD"), or any other suitable host computing device (e.g., smart phones, smart wearable devices, etc.). In some cases, multiple host computing devices may be used and one or more of the computer peripherals may be communicatively coupled to one or more of the host computing devices (e.g., a computer mouse may be coupled to multiple host computing devices). The host computing device may also be referred to herein as a "host computer," "host device," "computing device," "computer," etc., and may include a machine-readable medium (not shown) configured to store computer code, such as driver software, firmware, etc., wherein the computer code may be executed by one or more processors in the host computing device to control aspects of the host computing device, such as via one or more computer peripherals.

[0032] Typical computer peripherals may include any suitable input device, output device, or input / output device, including those shown (e.g., keyboards) and those not shown (e.g., remote controls), wearable devices (e.g., gloves, watches, head mounted displays), AR / VR controllers, CAD controllers, joysticks, analog shifters, stylus devices, or other suitable devices that can be used, for example, to convert analog inputs into digital signals for computer processing. By way of example, a computer peripheral (e.g., computer mouse 130) may be configured to provide control signals for motion tracking (e.g., xy motion on a plane, three-dimensional "air" motion, etc.), touch and / or gesture detection, lift detection, orientation detection (e.g., orientation detection in a 3-degree-of-freedom (DOF) system, a 6DOF system, etc.), power management capabilities, input detection (e.g., buttons, scroll wheels, etc.), output functionality (e.g., LED control, tactile feedback, etc.), or any of a large number of other features that may be provided by a computer peripheral as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The keys of keyboard 140 (or other depressible elements on any input device) may incorporate an automatically rotatable key switch architecture, as presented herein.

[0033] An input device may be a computer peripheral device and may also be referred to herein as a "peripheral input device," "peripheral device," etc. Most of the embodiments described herein generally refer to a computer peripheral device 140, however, it should be understood that a computer peripheral device may be any suitable input / output (I / O) device (e.g., a user interface device, a control device, an input unit, etc.) that may be adapted to utilize the novel embodiments described and contemplated herein.

[0034] Systems for operating computer peripherals

[0035] Figure 2 A system 200 for operating a computer peripheral (e.g., keyboard 140) according to certain embodiments is shown. The system 200 can be configured to operate any computer peripheral that is specifically shown or not shown herein but is within the broad scope of the present disclosure. The system 200 may include a processor 210, a memory block 220, a power management block 230, a communication block 240, an input detection block 250, and an output control block 260. Each of the system blocks 220 to 260 can be in electronic communication with the processor 210 (e.g., via a bus system). The system 200 may include additional functional blocks that are not shown or discussed to prevent confusion about the novel features described herein. The system blocks 220 to 260 (also referred to as "modules," "systems," or "system blocks") can be implemented as separate modules, or alternatively, more than one system block can be implemented in a single module. As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure, in the context described herein, the system 200 may be incorporated into any computer peripheral described or mentioned herein, and may also be configured with at least the following description with respect to Figures 5 to 11 Any of the automatically rotatable key switch architectures presented herein described.

[0036] In some embodiments, the processor 210 may include one or more microprocessors and may be configured to control the operation of the system 200. Alternatively or additionally, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the processor 210 may include one or more microcontrollers (MCUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), etc., with supporting hardware and / or firmware (e.g., memory, programmable I / O, etc.), and / or software. The processor 210 may control some or all aspects of the operation of the computer peripherals 140 (e.g., system blocks 220 to 260). Alternatively or additionally, some of the system blocks 220 to 260 may include additional dedicated processors that may work with the processor 210. For example, an MCU, μC, DSP, etc. may be configured in other system blocks of the system 200. The communication block 240 may include a local processor, for example, to control various aspects of communication with the host computer 110 (e.g., via Bluetooth, Bluetooth LE, RF, IR, hardwired, ZigBee, Z-Wave, Logitech Unifying, or other communication protocols). The processor 210 may be local to the peripheral device (e.g., contained therein), may be external to the peripheral device (e.g., such as by off-board processing of a corresponding host computing device), or a combination thereof. The processor 210 may be combined with any other system blocks in the system 200 to perform any of the various functions and methods described and / or covered by the present disclosure. In some implementations, Figure 3 The processor 302 can work with the processor 210 to perform some or all of the various methods described throughout this disclosure. In some embodiments, multiple processors can achieve increased performance characteristics (e.g., speed and bandwidth) in the system 200, however, multiple processors are not required and are not necessarily closely related to the novelty of the embodiments described herein. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that many variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments are possible.

[0037] The memory block ("memory") 220 may store one or more software programs to be executed by the processor (e.g., in the processor 210). It should be understood that "software" may refer to a sequence of instructions that, when executed by a processing unit (e.g., a processor, a processing device, etc.), causes the system 200 to perform certain operations of the software program. Instructions may be stored as firmware residing in a read-only memory (ROM) and / or an application stored in a media storage device that can be read into the memory to be executed by a processing device (e.g., the processor 210). The software may be implemented as a single program or a collection of separate programs, and may be stored in a non-volatile memory and copied in whole or in part to a volatile working memory during program execution. In some embodiments, the memory 220 may store data corresponding to inputs on a peripheral device, such as motion of a peripheral device detected by a sensor (e.g., an optical sensor, an accelerometer, etc.), activation of one or more input elements (e.g., buttons, sliders, touch-sensitive areas, etc.), etc. The stored data may be aggregated and sent to a host computing device via a report.

[0038] In some embodiments, the memory 220 may store various data described throughout the present disclosure. For example, the memory 220 may store and / or include a program configured to execute at least the following: Figures 5 to 11 The various automatic rotation key switch control modes presented herein are described. The memory 220 can be used to store any suitable data to perform any function described herein and as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from the present disclosure. The memory array 220 can be referred to as a storage system or storage subsystem, and can store one or more software programs to be executed by a processor (e.g., in the processor 210). It should be understood that "software" can refer to a sequence of instructions that, when executed by a processing unit (e.g., a processor, a processing device, etc.), causes the system 200 to perform certain operations of the software program. Instructions can be stored as firmware residing in a read-only memory (ROM) and / or an application stored in a media storage device that can be read into the memory to be processed by the processing device. The software can be implemented as a single program or a collection of separate programs, and can be stored in a non-volatile memory and copied to a volatile working memory in whole or in part during program execution. The processing device can retrieve program instructions to be executed from the storage subsystem to run various operations (e.g., software-controlled switches, etc.) as described herein.

[0039] The power management system 230 can be configured to manage power distribution, recharging, power efficiency, haptic motor power control, etc. In some embodiments, the power management system 230 may include a battery (not shown), a universal serial bus (USB)-based recharging system (not shown) for the battery, and a power management device (e.g., a voltage regulator - not shown) and an electrical grid within the system 200 that provides power to each subsystem (e.g., communication block 240, etc.). In some embodiments, the functionality provided by the power management system 230 can be incorporated into the processor 210. Alternatively, some embodiments may not include a dedicated power management block. For example, functional aspects of the power management block 240 may be included by another block (e.g., processor 210) or combined with another block. The power source may be a replaceable battery, a rechargeable energy storage device (e.g., supercapacitor, lithium polymer battery, NiMH, NiCd), a wired power supply, or other suitable power source. The recharging system may be an additional cable (dedicated to recharging purposes), or it may use a USB connection to recharge the battery.

[0040] According to some embodiments, the communication system 240 may be configured to implement wireless communication with a corresponding host computing device (e.g., 110) or other devices and / or peripherals. The communication system 240 may be configured to provide radio frequency (RF), Logitech proprietary communication protocols (e.g., Unifying, Gaming Lightspeed, or others), infrared (IR), Z-Wave or other suitable communication technology for communicating with other computing devices and / or peripherals. System 200 may optionally include a hardwired connection to a corresponding host computing device. For example, input device 140 may be configured to receive USB, Or other general types of cables to achieve two-way electronic communication with the corresponding main computing device or other external devices. Some embodiments may utilize different types of cables or connection protocol standards to establish hard-wired communication with other entities. In some aspects, communication ports (e.g., USB), power ports, etc. may be considered as part of other blocks described herein (e.g., input detection module 250, output control module 260, etc.). In some aspects, communication system 240 may send reports (e.g., HID data, streaming or aggregated data, etc.) generated by processor 210 to the main computing device. In some cases, the report may be generated only by the processor, in conjunction with other entities in the processor or system 200. Communication system 240 may be combined with one or more antennas, oscillators, etc., and may operate at any suitable frequency band (e.g., 2.4 GHz), etc. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand its many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments with the benefit of this disclosure.

[0041] The input detection module 250 may control the detection of user interactions with input elements (also referred to as “elements”) on the input device. For example, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure, the input detection module 250 may detect user input from a key or button (e.g., a depressible element), a scroll wheel, a motion sensor, a scroll wheel, a trackball, a touch pad (e.g., a one-dimensional and / or two-dimensional touch-sensitive touch pad), a click wheel, a dial, a keyboard, a microphone, a GUI, a touch-sensitive GUI, a proximity sensor (e.g., an IR sensor, a thermal sensor, a Hall effect sensor, an inductive sensing sensor, etc.), image sensor-based detection such as gesture detection (e.g., via a webcam), audio-based detection such as voice input (e.g., via a microphone), etc. Alternatively, the functionality of the input detection module 250 may be included by or combined with the processor 210.

[0042] In some embodiments, the input detection module 250 can detect a touch or touch gesture on one or more touch-sensitive surfaces on the input device 130. The input detection block 250 may include one or more touch-sensitive surfaces or touch sensors. A touch sensor typically includes a sensing element suitable for detecting a signal such as direct contact, an electromagnetic field or an electrostatic field, or a beam of electromagnetic radiation. A touch sensor can typically detect a change in a received signal, the presence of a signal, or the absence of a signal. The touch sensor may include a source for transmitting the detected signal, or the signal may be generated by an auxiliary source. The touch sensor may be configured to detect the presence of an object at a distance (e.g., <5 mm) from a reference area or point, contact with a reference area or point, or a combination thereof. Certain embodiments of the computer peripheral device 150 may or may not utilize touch detection or touch sensing capabilities.

[0043] The input detection block 250 may include touch and / or proximity sensing capabilities. Some examples of types of touch / proximity sensors may include, but are not limited to, resistive sensors (e.g., based on standard air gap 4-wire, based on carbon-supported plastics with different electrical properties depending on pressure (FSR), interpolated FSR, strain gauges, etc.), capacitive sensors (e.g., surface capacitance, self-capacitance, mutual capacitance, etc.), optical sensors (e.g., optical barrier type (open or closed by default), infrared optical barrier matrix, laser-based diodes coupled to photodetectors that can measure the time of flight of the optical path, etc.), acoustic sensors (e.g., piezoelectric buzzers coupled to microphones to detect modifications of wave propagation modes associated with touch points, etc.), inductive sensors, magnetic sensors (e.g., Hall effect, etc.), etc.

[0044] In some embodiments, the output control module 260 can control various outputs for corresponding computer peripherals. For example, the output control module 260 can control multiple visual output elements (e.g., LEDs, LCD screens), displays, audio outputs (e.g., speakers), tactile output systems, etc. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof with the benefit of this disclosure.

[0045] As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, although some systems may not be explicitly discussed, they should be considered as part of system 200. For example, system 200 may include a bus system to transmit power and / or data to and from different systems therein. It should be understood that system 200 is illustrative, and variations and modifications are possible. System 200 may have other capabilities not specifically described herein. In addition, although system 200 is described with reference to specific blocks, it should be understood that these blocks are defined for ease of description and are not intended to imply a specific physical arrangement of component parts. In addition, blocks do not need to correspond to physically different components. Blocks can be configured to perform various operations, for example, by programming a processor or providing appropriate control circuits, and various blocks may or may not be reconfigurable depending on how the initial configuration is obtained.

[0046] Embodiments of the present invention can be implemented in various devices including electronic devices (e.g., computer peripherals) implemented using any combination of circuit systems and software. In addition, aspects and / or parts of system 200 can be combined with other subsystems or operated by other subsystems according to design requirements. For example, input detection block 250 and / or memory 220 can operate within processor 210, rather than being used as separate entities. In addition, the inventive concepts described herein can also be applied to any electronic device. In addition, system 200 can be applied to any computer peripheral device in the computer peripheral devices described in the embodiments herein, whether it is a computer peripheral device described explicitly, by reference, or by default (e.g., a person of ordinary skill in the art is known to be applicable to a specific computer peripheral device). The foregoing embodiments are not intended to be limiting, and a person of ordinary skill in the art who benefits from the present disclosure will understand a large number of applications and possibilities.

[0047] System for operating a host computing device

[0048] Figure 3300 is a simplified block diagram of a main computing device 300 according to certain embodiments. The main computing device 300 may implement some or all of the above functions, behaviors and / or capabilities that will use electronic storage or processing, as well as other functions, behaviors or capabilities that are not explicitly described. The main computing device 300 may include a processing subsystem (processor) 302, a storage subsystem 306, a user interface 314, 316, and a communication interface 312. The computer device 300 may also include other components (not explicitly shown) such as batteries, power controllers, and other components that are operable to provide various enhanced capabilities. In various embodiments, the main computing device 300 may be implemented in any suitable computing device, such as a desktop computer or laptop computer (e.g., desktop computer 110), a mobile device (e.g., a tablet computer, a smart phone, a mobile phone), a game console, a wearable device, a media device, etc., or in some implementations in a peripheral device (e.g., a keyboard, etc.).

[0049] Processor 302 may include an MCU, a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a digital signal processing device (DSPD), a programmable logic device (PLD), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a processor, a controller, a microcontroller, a microprocessor, or an electronic unit designed to perform the functions or methods, functions, etc. described throughout the present disclosure.

[0050] The storage subsystem 306 may be implemented using local storage and / or removable storage media, such as disks, flash memory (e.g., secure digital cards, universal serial bus flash drives), or any other non-transitory storage media or combinations of media, and may include volatile and / or non-volatile storage media. The local storage may include a memory subsystem 308 including a random access memory (RAM) 318 such as a dynamic RAM (DRAM), a static RAM (SRAM), a synchronous dynamic RAM (e.g., DDR), or a battery-backed RAM, or a read-only memory (ROM) 320, or a file storage subsystem 310 that may include one or more code modules. In some embodiments, the storage subsystem 306 may store one or more applications and / or operating system programs to be executed by the processing subsystem 302, including programs to be executed using a computer for implementing some or all of the operations described above. For example, the storage subsystem 306 may store one or more code modules for implementing one or more method steps described herein.

[0051] Modules (e.g., procedures, functions, etc.) may be utilized to implement firmware and / or software implementations. Machine-readable media that tangibly implement instructions may be used in implementing the methods described herein. Code modules (e.g., instructions stored in memory) may be implemented within a processor or external to a processor. As used herein, the term "memory" refers to long-term, short-term, volatile, non-volatile, or other types of storage media, and is not limited to any particular type of memory or any number of memories or any particular type of media storing memory.

[0052] In addition, the term "storage medium" or "storage device" may refer to one or more memories for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), RAM, magnetic RAM, magnetic core memory, magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and / or other machine-readable media for storing information. The term "machine-readable medium" includes, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, wireless channels, and / or various other storage media capable of storing instructions and / or data.

[0053] In addition, implementation methods can be implemented by hardware, software, scripting language, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language and / or any combination thereof. When implemented with software, firmware, middleware, scripting language and / or microcode, the program code or code segment for performing tasks can be stored in a machine-readable medium such as a storage medium. Code segments (e.g., code modules) or machine executable instructions can represent a combination of processes, functions, subroutines, programs, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, scripts, classes or instructions, data structures and / or program statements. Code segments can be coupled to another code segment or hardware circuit by transmitting and / or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters and / or memory contents. Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc. can be transmitted, forwarded or sent by appropriate means, including memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc. These descriptions of software, firmware, storage media, etc. are applicable to any other implementation in the wide range of systems 200 and 300 and the present disclosure. In some embodiments, aspects of the invention (e.g., surface classification) may be performed by software stored in the storage subsystem 306, in the computer peripheral device's memory 220, or in both. Many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof will occur to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0054] The implementation of the techniques, blocks, steps, and means described throughout this disclosure may be accomplished in various ways. For example, the techniques, blocks, steps, and means may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof. For hardware implementations, the processing unit may be implemented within one or more ASICs, DSPs, DSPDs, PLDs, FPGAs, processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, other electronic units designed to perform the above functions, and / or combinations thereof.

[0055] Each code module may include an instruction (code) set implemented on a computer-readable medium, which guides the processor of the host computing device 110 to perform corresponding actions. The instructions can be configured to run in a sequential order, in parallel (such as under different processing threads), or in combination thereof. After the code module is loaded onto a general-purpose computer system, the general-purpose computer is converted into a special-purpose computer system.

[0056] Computer programs incorporating the various features described herein (e.g., in one or more code modules) may be encoded and stored on various computer-readable storage media. Computer-readable media encoded with program code may be packaged with compatible electronic devices, or program code may be provided separately from electronic devices (e.g., downloaded via the Internet or as a separately packaged computer-readable storage medium). Storage subsystem 306 may also store information useful for establishing a network connection using communication interface 312.

[0057] The computer system 300 may include user interface input device 314 elements (e.g., touch pad, touch screen, scroll wheel, click wheel, dial, buttons, switches, keyboard, microphone, etc.), and user interface output device 316 (e.g., video screen, indicator light, speaker, headphone jack, virtual reality or augmented reality display, etc.), along with supporting electronics (e.g., digital-to-analog converter or analog-to-digital converter, signal processor, etc.). A user may operate the user interface input device 314 to invoke functions of the computing device 300, and may see and / or hear output from the computing device 300 via the user interface output device 316.

[0058] The processing subsystem 302 can be implemented as one or more processors (e.g., integrated circuits, one or more single-core or multi-core microprocessors, microcontrollers, central processing units, graphics processing units, etc.). In operation, the processing subsystem 302 can control the operation of the computer device 300. In some embodiments, the processing subsystem 302 can execute various programs in response to program code, and can maintain multiple programs or processes that are executed simultaneously. At a given time, some or all of the program code to be executed can reside in the processing subsystem 302 and / or a storage medium, such as the storage subsystem 304. Through programming, the processing subsystem 302 can provide various functions for the computing device 300. The processing subsystem 302 can also execute other programs for controlling other functions of the computer device 300, including programs that can be stored in the storage subsystem 304.

[0059] The communication interface (also referred to as a network interface) 312 can provide voice and / or data communication capabilities for the computing device 300. In some embodiments, the communication interface 312 may include a radio frequency (RF) transceiver component for accessing a wireless data network (e.g., a Wi-Fi network; 3G, 4G / LTE, etc.), a mobile communication technology, a component for short-range wireless communication (e.g., using the Bluetooth communication standard, NFC, etc.), other components or technology combinations. In some embodiments, in addition to or instead of a wireless interface, the communication interface 312 may also provide a wired connection (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB), Ethernet, a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter, etc.). The communication interface 312 can be implemented using a combination of hardware (e.g., driver circuits, antennas, modulators / demodulators, encoders / decoders, and other analog and / or digital signal processing circuits) and software components. In some embodiments, the communication interface 312 can support multiple communication channels simultaneously.

[0060] User interface input devices 314 may include any suitable computer peripheral device (e.g., a computer mouse, keyboard, game controller, remote control, stylus device, etc.), as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. User interface output devices 316 may include a display device (e.g., a monitor, television, projection device, etc.), an audio device (e.g., a speaker, microphone), a haptic device, etc. Note that user interface input devices and output devices are shown as part of system 300 as an integrated system. In some cases, such as in a laptop computer, this may be the case where the keyboard and input elements and the display and output elements are integrated on the same host computing device. In some cases, such as Figure 1 As shown in FIG, the input device and the output device may be separate from the system 300. Many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof will occur to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0061] It should be understood that computing device 300 is illustrative and can be changed and modified. The main computing device may have various functions (e.g., voice communication via a cellular phone network) that are not specifically described, and may include components suitable for such functions. Although computing device 300 is described with reference to specific blocks, it should be understood that these blocks are defined for ease of description and are not intended to imply a specific physical arrangement of component parts. For example, processing subsystem 302, storage subsystem 306, user interface 314, 316, and communication interface 312 may be in one device or distributed in multiple devices. In addition, blocks do not need to correspond to physically different components. Blocks may be configured to perform various operations, such as by programming a processor or providing appropriate control circuits, and various blocks may or may not be reconfigurable, depending on how to obtain an initial configuration. Embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in various devices, including electronic devices implemented using a combination of circuits and software. The main computing device or even peripheral devices described herein may be implemented using system 300.

[0062] As described above, some contemporary computer peripherals, such as keyboards, may include key switches that may be manually replaceable, wherein a user may replace a key switch structure with a key switch structure having a preferred key depression feedback profile, or in some cases, may be manually adjustable, wherein a user may remove a key cap for each key and manually modify (e.g., rotate) each key structure to access a different feedback profile type. While the ability to manually change key switch feedback profiles may accommodate a wider range of users and applications, the task of manually replacing or adjusting many keys may be very tedious, labor-intensive, and time-consuming, and may often require special tools to make changes, remove / replace key caps, etc.

[0063] Figure 4AAn exploded perspective view of a manually adjustable key switch system (architecture) 400 that can produce a feedback profile is shown. The key switch system 400 includes a key stem 402 having a key stem body 404 having a generally cylindrical geometry. A key cap attachment feature 406 protrudes axially from one end of the key stem body 404. The key cap attachment feature 406 has a cross-shaped geometry as depicted, and the key cap attachment feature 406 is configured to engage with a complementary cross-shaped recess in a key cap 408. The interaction between the key cap attachment feature 406 and the recess in the key cap 408 prevents the key cap 408 from rotating relative to the key stem 402. Although a cross-shaped geometry of the key cap attachment feature 406 is depicted, any non-circular geometry can prevent the key cap 408 from rotating. The key cap attachment feature 406 can also be engaged by a tool configured to help a user adjust the feedback response of the key assembly 102. The lateral outer surface of the key stem body 404 defines a plurality of channels 410 that are aligned with the longitudinal axis of the key stem body 404. The channels 410 are configured to be engaged by one or more detents that engage the channels 410 to produce discrete rotational positions of the key stem 402 relative to the housing component 412. These discrete positions facilitate alignment of the radial protrusion 414 with the torsion spring 416 when the key stem 402 is in the first position.

[0064] Figure 4A Also shown is how the torsion spring 416 is held in place relative to the key stem 402 by a recess defined by the housing member 412. The key stem 402 is supported within the housing member 412 by a helical compression spring 418. The helical compression spring 418 can be configured to provide a linear feedback response to the user through the key stem 402 and the key cap 408. However, once the protrusion 414 engages the torsion spring 416, the resistance encountered by the user input increases. In some embodiments, the legs of the torsion spring 416 engaged with the protrusion 414 can slide around the protrusion 414 and become disengaged from the protrusion 414 to provide reduced resistance, thereby causing the user to receive a tactile indication that the user input has been received. In other embodiments, the torsion spring 416 can remain engaged with the protrusion 414 until an electrical contact or other electrical signal device is triggered. The housing member 412 also includes a spring stop 420 that preloads the torsion spring 416. In this manner, the initial amount of force applied by the torsion spring 416 can be greater than would otherwise be the case if the torsion spring 416 were not preloaded by the spring stop 420. Figure 4A Not specifically depicted, but it should be understood that the undepicted second leg of the torsion spring 416 can engage an inwardly facing surface of the wall of the housing member 412.

[0065] Figure 4BA perspective view of a manually adjustable key bar 402 is shown, which is configured with three different protrusions 414, 422 and 424 that are offset by about 90 degrees in the radial direction. Channels 410 are shown as being interspersed between each of the protrusions 414, 422 and 424. The channel 410 extends from a first end of the key bar body 404 to a second end of the key bar body 404 opposite to the first end. The large length of the channel 410 allows the pawl engaged with one or more of the channels in the channel 410 to remain engaged during the axial movement of the key bar body 404. It should be noted that the protrusions 414, 422 and 424 all have different shapes and sizes. The interaction between the various protrusions of different shapes and sizes changes the feedback response provided by the torsion spring 416. For example, the protrusion 424 is positioned higher on the key bar body 404 than the protrusions 414 and the protrusions 422. For this reason, a user actuating the key assembly 102 is able to press the key cap further downward before encountering a greater force provided by the torsion spring. In addition, the curved shape of the protrusion 424 also affects the overall feel of the feedback response. In particular, the protrusion 424 provides a tactile feedback response, the protrusion 422 provides an additional linear feedback response, and the protrusion 414 provides a more explicit click feedback response to the user input.

[0066] Figure 5 An example of an automatically adjustable key switch ("key switch") 500 according to some embodiments is shown. The key switch 500 can be part of a larger key structure for an input device (e.g., keyboard 140), and the key switch 500 can include a frame, supporting hardware, etc. for supporting multiple automatically adjustable key switches. Figure 5 An example of a larger assembly including the framework and supporting hardware is shown in FIG. Figure 5 The features are more closely related to the present disclosure and are not obstructed to better convey the inventive concepts presented herein.

[0067] According to certain embodiments, the key switch 500 may include a key stem including an upper key stem 510, an intermediate key stem 520, and a lower key stem 530. As will be appreciated by a person of ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure, the upper key stem 510 may include a keycap attachment feature that may allow the upper keycap 510 to be coupled to the keycap in a complementary friction fit relationship or other suitable coupling method. In some aspects, the rotatable intermediate key stem 520 may be rotated longitudinally (e.g., along its vertical axis 590) and coaxially aligned with the upper key stem and the lower key stem. The upper key stem 520 is operable to rotate between a plurality of positions including a first position and a second position (or more positions) while the upper key stem 510 and the lower key stem 530 remain stationary such that rotation of the intermediate key stem 520 does not cause rotation of the corresponding keycap. In some embodiments, the intermediate key stem 520 may have a first protrusion 522 having a laterally extending profile at a first position and having no protrusion at a second position, such as, for example, in FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C In some aspects, the second position (and any number of additional positions) may also have protrusions of different profiles to allow for a variety of feedback distributions, such as Figure 4B Many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0068] In some aspects, the intermediate key rod 520 may include a key rod disposed therein (see, e.g. Figures 7 to 8C ) is a magnetized (or magnetizable) element, such as a metal block (or other ferromagnetic element), which can cause the intermediate key rod 520 to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise when exposed to the magnetic field caused by the magnetizing assembly, as further described below. As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, the key rod can be rotated along the vertical axis 590 (see, e.g. Figure 6C ) is pressed and can be configured to trigger a sensor or switch that generates a control signal corresponding to the key press.

[0069] In some embodiments, the key switch 500 may include a magnetizing assembly including a power source (not shown), a coil 540, and a metal rod 550. The current source may be controlled by one or more processors 210 and may be operable to drive a current through the coil 540, thereby energizing the coil 540 and causing it to generate a magnetic field. The magnetic field strength and polarity of the magnetic field may depend on the magnitude and polarity of the current driving the coil 540. The metal rod 550 may be U-shaped as shown, circular, or any other polygonal shape, or a similar shape operable to conduct the magnetic field generated by the coil 540 through and adjacent to the middle key rod 520, as further described below and in FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B and FIG. 10A to FIG. 10BThe metal rod 550 may include a first end 552 and a second end 554 configured to be adjacent to and located on opposite sides of the middle key rod 520 .

[0070] In operation, a power source energizes the coil 540 that generates a magnetic field, wherein the metal rod 540 conducts the magnetic field from the first terminal 542 of the coil 540 to the first end 552 of the metal rod 550, through the magnetized element of the rotatable intermediate key rod to the second end 554 of the metal rod 550 and to the second end 544 of the coil 540, thereby completing the magnetic circuit. The magnetic field can manipulate the magnetized element, thereby rotating the intermediate key rod between positions. When the intermediate key rod 520 is in the first position and the key switch 500 is pressed, the biasing mechanism (e.g., a torsion spring) contacts the first protrusion 522, and a specific feedback distribution is generated through the profile of the key press (e.g., some or all), and the specific feedback distribution is based on the interaction of the biasing mechanism with the profile of the first protrusion 522, the biasing characteristics of the biasing mechanism (e.g., stiffness, physical size, etc.), and in some cases the second biasing mechanism (not shown, but see, for example FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C The biasing characteristics of the biasing mechanism 570 of the first position provide a restoring force to move the depressed key switch 500 back to the neutral (unpressed) state, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. In some aspects, the feedback profile of the first position provides a "click" or "tactile" type of feedback.

[0071] When the middle key rod 520 is in the second position (see e.g. FIG. 6B to FIG. 6C ) and the key switch 500 is depressed, the biasing mechanism (e.g., a torsion spring) bypasses the first protrusion 522, thereby generating a specific feedback profile through the stroke (e.g., some or all) of the key pressing, the specific feedback profile is mainly based on the second biasing mechanism 570 (e.g., a coil spring), which provides a restoring force for the linear feedback profile, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure, and is similar in some respects to FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B The operation of the key levers in FIG. 1 is described (in terms of feedback distribution) and is further described below.

[0072] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C FIG. 2 shows the operating sequence of a simplified model of an automatically adjustable key switch 500 according to certain embodiments. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 5 , the key switch 500 includes an upper key rod 510, a middle key rod 520 with a protrusion 522, a lower key rod 530, a biasing mechanism 560, and a second biasing mechanism 570. Fig. 6A, the middle key rod 520 is magnetically manipulated to rotate to a first position, at which the protrusion 522 is configured to engage with the biasing mechanism 560 when the key switch 500 is depressed, as described above. The middle key rod 520 may include a magnetic block or other ferromagnetic element coupled to or embedded in the middle key rod 520, which, when subjected to a magnetic field, causes the middle key rod 520 to rotate based on the strength and polarity of the magnetic field. When the magnetic field is configured in a first setting, the middle key rod 520 moves to the first position. As described above, when the key switch 500 is depressed in this position, the feedback distribution can be defined by the interaction of the protrusion 522 with the biasing mechanism 560 and the restoring force of the second biasing mechanism 570.

[0073] exist Figure 6B In the embodiment, the intermediate key rod 520 is magnetically manipulated to rotate to a second position where the protrusion 522 is not aligned with the biasing mechanism 560, thereby allowing the protrusion 522 to bypass the biasing mechanism 560 when the key switch 500 is depressed, as shown in FIG. Figure 6C When the magnetic field is configured in the second setting, the intermediate key rod 520 moves to the second position. As described above, when the key switch 500 is depressed in this position, the feedback distribution can be largely defined by the restoring force of the second biasing mechanism 570. The embodiments described by the present disclosure show a magnetically induced intermediate key rod, however, other implementations can be used for rotation between positions, including motors or manual control, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0074] Figure 7 An exploded view of various aspects of an automatically adjustable key switch 500 is shown in accordance with certain embodiments. The key switch 500 may be similar to the one described above. Figures 5 to 6C. Although the embodiments presented in the present disclosure illustrate and describe specific implementations of the components of the key switch 500, other components falling within the broad scope of the inventive concept presented herein may be used. For example, the magnetic element 522 may be in the form of a rod (as shown), or in any suitable shape that can be coupled to or combined with the intermediate key rod 520. Exemplary embodiments typically extend the magnetic element 522 laterally from the intermediate key rod 520 to produce a stronger moment arm, so that a weaker magnetic field (and therefore less power consumption) can be used to move the intermediate key rod 520 between its multiple positions and the corresponding feedback distribution. The metal rod 550 may be u-shaped, c-shaped, or any suitable shape, which may be operated to guide a magnetic field through or adjacent to the intermediate key rod 520 to cause the intermediate key rod to rotate between multiple positions. The intermediate key rod 520 may rotate between any number of positions, with the corresponding protrusion having any suitable shape to achieve any desired feedback distribution. Those of ordinary skill in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the present disclosure. In some aspects, the coil 540 can be one or more coils, and the combination of the metal rod and the coil can operate as an electromagnet (e.g., requiring a constant current draw to maintain a magnetic field). In some cases, power may only be required when switching between positions. In such cases, some retaining mechanism can be used to ensure that the intermediate key rod 520 remains in the current position when no magnetic field is present (see, e.g., FIG. 8C to FIG. 9B ), although some embodiments may remain in their set position without any additional holding mechanism when the magnetic field is removed. In some embodiments, an electropermanent magnet system can be used to generate a programmed and constant magnetic field and require only a momentary power consumption (e.g., <100ms) to set the magnetic field, which is maintained after power is removed, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. In some cases, one or more biasing mechanisms may be used, including different types of biasing mechanisms (e.g., torsional, helical, etc.), as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0075] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B Operational aspects of different feedback settings for an automatically adjustable key switch 500 are shown in accordance with certain embodiments. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B 5 shows how the rotational boundary of the middle key stem 520 can be set using the second protrusion 826 which engages with a slot 832 having a first wall and a second wall in the bottom key stem 530. Note that the second protrusion 826 is used for boundary setting rather than feedback distribution, however some embodiments may have a protrusion that can perform both functions. Fig. 8A In the embodiment, the intermediate key rod 520 is configured in the second position, thereby mainly due to the second biasing mechanism 570 (not shown, but see for example FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C ) causes a linear feedback distribution. In the second position, the second protrusion 826 moves within the slot 832 of the bottom key rod 530 until it contacts the second wall, thereby stopping further rotation of the middle key rod 520. Figure 8B , the middle key bar 520 is configured in a first position, causing a "click" feedback profile primarily due to the interaction of the protrusion 522 with the biasing mechanism 560 and the restoring force provided by the second biasing mechanism 570. In the first position, the second protrusion 826 moves within the slot 832 until it contacts the first wall, thereby stopping further rotation of the middle key bar 520. Figure 8C A close-up view of the slot 832, the protrusion 826, and the interaction therebetween is shown as the middle key rod 520 rotates relative to the bottom key rod 530. Such an embodiment helps limit the rotation of the middle key rod 520 and ensure that each operating position is properly aligned with or away from the biasing mechanism when the key switch is depressed. In some embodiments, the slot 832 can control the boundary or rotation of the middle key rod 520, thereby ensuring that the magnet is located to one side of the center of the key rod, so that when the magnetic field is activated, the magnetic element of the middle key rod can rotate, which may not occur when the magnetic element is aligned with the magnetic field.

[0076] In some embodiments, the boundary can help align the middle key stem 520 relative to the bottom key stem 530 to ensure proper alignment to achieve the desired feedback distribution, as described above. Some embodiments may employ additional features that prevent the middle key stem 520 from migrating between positions due to device vibration, etc. In some cases, a boss, ramp, detent, or other feature in the slot 832 can be used to prevent the protrusion 826, and thereby the middle key stem 520, from inadvertently moving from its currently set position, but without too much holding force, which prevents intentional position changes via a magnetic field.

[0077] FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B Various aspects of key bar retention according to certain embodiments are shown. Fig.9A In this case, if there is not enough rotational friction between the projection 826 and the groove 832 or between the intermediate key bar 520 and the bottom key bar 530 or the top key bar 510, the intermediate key bar 520 may be rotated between the positions unintentionally. Fig. 9BA laterally protruding boss 934 is shown constructed between the first wall and the second wall that resists movement of the rotatable intermediate key rod between the first position and the second position. The boss 934 can provide enough resistance to resist unintentional rotation of the intermediate key rod 520, but not too much so that the magnetic field can still rotate the intermediate key rod 520 between the positions. In some cases, the ramp or boss is constructed differently (vertically positioned rather than radially positioned). Those of ordinary skill in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate the many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0078] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B Various aspects of improving magnetic circuit efficiency according to certain embodiments are shown. The metal rod 550 can be configured to direct the magnetic field through or adjacent to the intermediate key rod 520 and the corresponding magnetic element 522. By reducing the distance between the metal rod ends 552, 554 and the magnetic element 522. Fig. 10A A U-shaped metal bar 550 is shown. Fig. 10B A U-shaped metal bar 1050 is shown with an extension portion that reduces the distance between the metal bar 1050 and the magnetic element 522, thereby increasing the efficiency of magnetic energy transfer between the metal bar 1050 and the magnetic element 522. In this way, less power can be used to generate the magnetic field and still control the rotation of the intermediate key rod 520 between various operating positions.

[0079] In some embodiments, as described above, one or more processors can change the feedback distribution of multiple keys at the same time. For example, the feedback distribution of the key can be changed for all keys, or graded on the key group to reduce any spikes in power consumption. Such a group can be based on the area of ​​the keyboard, key use (e.g., based on a heat map), etc. In some cases, each key can have one or more associated LEDs, and the LED can be programmed to be lit in a manner indicating a specific feedback distribution setting (e.g., temporarily, continuously), so that the user can quickly identify whether all expected keys are correctly set. In some cases, the sense of touch can be associated with some or all of the keys, and can be operated in a similar manner (e.g., vibrating to provide tactile feedback, which tells the user what feedback distribution is selected). Those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from the present disclosure will understand many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the present disclosure. In some cases, the key switch 500 can be hot-swappable, wherein the user can remove and replace the key switch as needed. In some cases, the keycap can be replaceable.

[0080] In some exemplary embodiments, a depressible key structure for a keyboard includes: an upper key rod; a lower key rod; a rotatable middle key rod including a magnetized element disposed therein, the rotatable middle key rod being coupled between the upper key rod and the lower key rod and axially aligned with the upper key rod and the lower key rod, the rotatable middle key rod including a protrusion, wherein the rotatable middle key rod is operable to longitudinally rotate between a first position and a second position while the upper key rod and the lower key rod remain longitudinally stationary; a biasing element configured to be adjacent to the middle key rod; a U-shaped metal rod having a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being configured to be adjacent to the middle key rod and located on opposite sides of the middle key rod; and a coil having a first side and a second side, the coil being connected to the metal rod, the coil being disposed by The power supply can be operated to generate a magnetic field when energized, wherein the metal rod conducts the magnetic field from a first side of the coil to a first end of the metal rod, to a magnetized element of a rotatable intermediate key rod, to a second end of the metal rod and to a second side of the coil, thereby forming a magnetic circuit, wherein the generated magnetic field magnetically manipulates the magnetized element when in a first setting, thereby rotating the intermediate key rod to a first position, at which the biasing element engages with the protrusion when the key structure is pressed, thereby generating a first feedback effect, and wherein the generated magnetic field magnetically manipulates the magnetized element when in a second setting, thereby rotating the intermediate key rod to a second position, at which the biasing element bypasses the protrusion when the key structure is pressed, thereby generating a second feedback effect.

[0081] In some embodiments, the key structure also includes one or more processors, one or more processors operable to control the current flowing through the coil, the current including a first current setting the generated magnetic field to a first setting and a second current setting the generated magnetic field to a second setting. The current flowing through the coil can set the strength and polarity of the generated magnetic field. The key structure may include a keycap configured to be coupled to the upper key rod in a complementary friction fit relationship. In some aspects, when the middle key rod rotates between the first position and the second position, the upper key rod remains longitudinally stationary. The first feedback effect may be a click feedback effect caused primarily by the movement of the biasing element on the profile of the protrusion. In some aspects, the biasing element may be a torsion spring. The key structure may also include a second biasing element (e.g., a coil spring, a coil compression spring) that provides a restoring force that moves the key structure from a depressed position to an unpressed position, wherein the second feedback effect is a linear feedback caused primarily by the restoring force of the second biasing element. In certain embodiments, the lower key bar includes a slotted region having a first wall and a second wall, wherein the rotatable intermediate key bar includes a second protrusion configured to slide within the slotted region as the rotatable intermediate key bar moves between the first position and the second position, wherein when the second protrusion is configured to abut the first wall within the slotted region when the rotatable intermediate key bar is in the first position, the first wall of the slotted region is operable to prevent further longitudinal rotation of the rotatable intermediate key bar in the direction of the first wall, and wherein when the second protrusion is configured to abut the second wall within the slotted region when the rotatable intermediate key bar is in the second position, the second wall of the slotted region is operable to prevent further longitudinal rotation of the rotatable intermediate key bar in the direction of the second wall. In some cases, the slotted region includes a laterally protruding protrusion configured between the first wall and the second wall, the protrusion resisting movement of the rotatable intermediate key bar between the first position and the second position, wherein the rotatable intermediate key bar moves between the first position and the second position when the magnetic field is at a first setting and above a threshold magnetic field strength, or when the magnetic field is at a second setting and above a threshold magnetic field strength. In some embodiments, the first end and the second end of the U-shaped metal bar include lateral extensions that reduce the distance from the U-shaped metal bar to the rotatable intermediate key rod. In certain embodiments, the magnetized element is a ferromagnetic block.

[0082] Fig.111 is a simplified flow chart illustrating aspects of a method 1100 for automatically rotating an adjustable key switch according to certain embodiments. The method 1100 may be performed by processing logic, which may include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software operating on appropriate hardware (such as a general-purpose computing system or a dedicated machine), firmware (embedded software), or any combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the method 1100 may be performed by aspects of the system 200 (e.g., the processor 210) or a combination thereof.

[0083] At operation 1110 , according to some embodiments, method 1100 may include receiving a control signal from one or more processors that sets a polarity and a magnitude of a current through the conductive coil to generate a magnetic field according to one of a plurality of settings (operation 1120 ).

[0084] At operation 1130 of method 1100, the generated magnetic field magnetically manipulates a rotatable key rod having a protrusion to rotate to a first position when in a first setting among multiple settings, at which first position a biasing element (e.g., a torsion spring) constructed adjacent to the rotatable middle key rod engages with the protrusion when the key structure is depressed, thereby producing a first feedback effect (operation 1140).

[0085] At operation 1150 of method 1100, the generated magnetic field magnetically manipulates the rotatable key rod to rotate to a second position when in a second setting among the multiple settings, at which the biasing element bypasses the protrusion when the key structure is depressed, thereby generating a second feedback effect (operation 1160). The rotatable key rod may have an upper key rod, a lower key rod, and an intermediate key rod, wherein the intermediate key rod rotates in response to the magnetic field and the upper key rod and / or the lower key rod remain stationary. The rotatable intermediate key rod is connected between the upper key rod and the lower key rod and is axially aligned with the upper key rod and the lower key rod. The generated magnetic field is generated by a coil, which is energized by a power supply controlled by one or more processors, and the generated magnetic field is conducted via a u-shaped metal rod having a first end and a second end, and the first end and the second end are configured to be adjacent to the intermediate key rod and located on opposite sides of the intermediate key rod, so that the conducted magnetic field passes through the intermediate key switch. The rotatable intermediate key rod is manipulated by the generated magnetic field because the rotatable intermediate key rod includes a magnetized element (e.g., a ferromagnetic block) coupled thereto, the magnetized element being pushed and / or pulled by the magnetic field, thereby causing rotation of the intermediate key rod. In some aspects, the first feedback effect is a click feedback effect caused primarily by the movement of the biasing element on the profile of the protrusion. In some cases, the key structure further includes a second biasing element that provides a restoring force that moves the key structure from a depressed position to an undepressed position, wherein the second feedback effect is a linear feedback caused primarily by the restoring force of the second biasing element.

[0086] It should be understood that Fig.11 The specific steps illustrated in the figure provide a specific method 1100 for automatically rotating an adjustable key switch according to certain embodiments. Other step sequences may also be performed according to alternative embodiments. In addition, additional steps may be added or removed according to specific applications. Any combination of changes may be used, and those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from this disclosure will appreciate many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0087] In some aspects, the various computer peripherals described herein may include a computer-readable storage medium reader, a communication device (e.g., a modem, a network card (wireless or wired), an infrared communication device, etc.) and a working memory as described above. A computer-readable storage medium reader may be connected to or configured to receive a non-transient computer-readable storage medium, which represents a remote, local, fixed and / or removable storage device and a storage medium for temporarily and / or more permanently containing, storing, transmitting and retrieving computer-readable information. The system and various devices will generally also include a plurality of software applications, modules, services or other elements located in at least one working storage device, including an operating system and an application program, such as a client application or a browser. It should be understood that alternative implementations may have many variations from the implementations described above. For example, customized hardware may also be used and / or specific elements may be implemented with hardware, software (including portable software, such as a small application program) or both. In addition, connections with other computing devices such as network input / output devices may be employed.

[0088] Many specific details are set forth herein to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the claimed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, methods, devices, or systems known to those of ordinary skill are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the claimed subject matter. The various embodiments illustrated and described are provided only as examples to illustrate the various features of the claims. However, the features shown and described with respect to any given embodiment are not necessarily limited to the relevant embodiment, and may be used or combined with other embodiments shown and described. In addition, the claims are not intended to be limited to any one example embodiment.

[0089] Although the subject matter has been described in detail with respect to specific embodiments of the invention, it will be understood that modifications, variations, and equivalents of such embodiments may be readily produced by those skilled in the art after obtaining an understanding of the foregoing. Therefore, it should be understood that, as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the present disclosure is presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation, and does not exclude the inclusion of such modifications, variations, and / or additions to the subject matter. In fact, the methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; in addition, various omissions, substitutions, and changes may be made to the form of the methods and systems described herein without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. The attached claims and their equivalents are intended to cover these forms or modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

[0090] Although the present disclosure provides certain example embodiments and applications, other embodiments that are obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of the present disclosure, including embodiments that do not provide all of the features and advantages described herein. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to be limited only by reference to the appended claims.

[0091] Unless expressly stated otherwise, it should be understood that throughout this specification, discussions utilizing terms such as “process,” “compute,” “measure,” “determine,” and “identify” refer to the actions or processes of a computing device, such as one or more computers or similar electronic computing devices, that manipulate or transform data represented as physical electronic or magnetic quantities within a memory, register, or other information storage device, transmission device, or display device of a computing platform.

[0092] The system or systems discussed herein are not limited to any particular hardware architecture or configuration. The computing device may include any suitable arrangement of components that provide results conditioned on one or more inputs. Suitable computing devices include multi-purpose microprocessor-based computer systems that access stored software that programs or configures the computing system from a general-purpose computing device to a dedicated computing device that implements one or more embodiments of the present subject matter. Any suitable programming, scripting, or other type of language or combination of languages ​​may be used to implement the teachings contained herein in software for programming or configuring computing devices.

[0093] Embodiments of the methods disclosed herein may be performed in the operation of such a computing device. The order of the blocks presented in the above examples may be changed—for example, the blocks may be reordered, combined, and / or divided into sub-blocks. Certain blocks or processes may be performed in parallel.

[0094] Unless otherwise specifically stated, conditional language used herein, such as "can," "might," "may," "could," "may," "for example," etc., or otherwise understood in the context of use, is generally intended to express that certain examples include certain features, elements, and / or steps while other examples do not. Thus, such conditional language is generally not intended to imply that one or more examples in any way require features, elements, and / or steps, or that one or more examples must include logic for determining whether such features, elements, and / or steps are included in any particular example or are to be performed in any particular example, with or without author input or prompting.

[0095] The terms "comprise", "include", "have", etc. are synonyms and are used inclusively in an open manner, and do not exclude other elements, features, actions, operations, etc. In addition, the term "or" is used in its inclusive sense (rather than in its exclusive sense), so that, for example, when used to connect a list of elements, the term "or" means one, some or all of the elements in the list. The use of "suitable for" or "configured to" herein means open and inclusive language, which does not exclude the equipment that is suitable for or configured to perform additional tasks or steps. In addition, the use of "based on" means open and inclusive, because the process, step, calculation or other action "based on" one or more of the conditions or values ​​may actually be based on additional conditions or values ​​other than these conditions or values. Similarly, the use of "based at least in part" means open and inclusive, because the process, step, calculation or other action "based at least in part" on one or more of the conditions or values ​​may actually be based on additional conditions or values ​​other than these conditions or values. The titles, lists and numbers included herein are only for ease of explanation and are not meant to be limited.

[0096] The various features and processes described above can be used independently of each other, or can be used in combination in various ways. All possible combinations and sub-combinations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, in some embodiments, certain methods or process blocks may be omitted. The methods and processes described herein are also not limited to any particular order, and the blocks or states associated therewith may be performed in other appropriate orders. For example, the blocks or states described may be performed in an order other than the order specifically disclosed, or multiple blocks or states may be combined in a single block or state. Example blocks or states may be performed serially, in parallel, or in some other manner. Blocks or states may be added to the disclosed examples or removed from the disclosed examples. Similarly, the example systems and components described herein may be configured differently than described. For example, elements may be added, removed, or rearranged compared to the disclosed examples.

Claims

1. A depressible key structure for a keyboard, the key structure comprising: Upper key rod; Lower key bar; a rotatable intermediate key rod, the intermediate key rod including a magnetized element disposed therein, the rotatable intermediate key rod being coupled between the upper key rod and the lower key rod and axially aligned with the upper key rod and the lower key rod, the rotatable intermediate key rod including a protrusion, wherein the rotatable intermediate key rod is operable to be longitudinally rotatable between a first position and a second position while the upper key rod and the lower key rod remain longitudinally stationary; a biasing element configured to be adjacent to the intermediate key rod; a U-shaped metal rod having a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being configured to be adjacent to and on opposite sides of the intermediate key rod; and a coil having a first side and a second side, the coil being coupled to the metal rod, the coil being operable to generate a magnetic field when energized by a power source, wherein the metal rod conducts the magnetic field from the first side of the coil to the first end of the metal rod, to the magnetized element of the rotatable intermediate key rod, to the second end of the metal rod, and to the second side of the coil, thereby forming a magnetic circuit, wherein the generated magnetic field magnetically manipulates the magnetized element when in a first setting to rotate the intermediate key rod to the first position in which the biasing element engages the protrusion when the key structure is depressed to produce a first feedback effect, and wherein the generated magnetic field magnetically manipulates the magnetized element to rotate the intermediate key rod to the second position when in the second setting, wherein the biasing element bypasses the protrusion to produce a second feedback effect when the key structure is depressed.

2. The key structure according to claim 1 further includes one or more processors, which are capable of operating to control the current flowing through the coil, the current including a first current that sets the generated magnetic field to the first setting and a second current that sets the generated magnetic field to the second setting.

3. The key structure according to claim 2, wherein: The current flowing through the coil sets the strength and polarity of the generated magnetic field.

4. The key structure of claim 1, further comprising a key cap configured to couple to the upper key stem in a complementary friction fit relationship.

5. The key structure according to claim 1, wherein: The upper key bar remains longitudinally stationary when the intermediate key bar rotates between the first position and the second position.

6. The key structure according to claim 1, wherein: The first feedback effect is a click-like feedback effect caused primarily by the movement of the biasing element over the profile of the protrusion.

7. The key structure according to claim 1, wherein: The biasing element is a torsion spring.

8. The key structure according to claim 1, further comprising a second biasing element, the second biasing element providing a restoring force for moving the key structure from the depressed position to the undepressed position, wherein The second feedback effect is a linear feedback caused primarily by the restoring force of the second biasing element.

9. The key structure according to claim 1, wherein: The second biasing element is a coil spring.

10. The key structure according to claim 1, wherein: The lower key lever includes a grooved area having a first wall and a second wall, wherein the rotatable intermediate key lever includes a second protrusion configured to slide within the grooved area when the rotatable intermediate key lever moves between the first position and the second position, wherein, when the second protrusion is configured to abut against the first wall in the grooved area when the rotatable intermediate key lever is in the first position, the first wall of the grooved area is operable to prevent further longitudinal rotation of the rotatable intermediate key lever in the direction of the first wall, and Wherein, when the second protrusion is configured to abut the second wall in the grooved area when the rotatable intermediate key lever is in the second position, the second wall of the grooved area is operable to prevent further longitudinal rotation of the rotatable intermediate key lever in the direction of the second wall.

11. The key structure according to claim 10, wherein: The grooved area includes a laterally protruding protrusion configured between the first wall and the second wall, the protrusion preventing movement of the rotatable intermediate key lever between the first position and the second position, Wherein, the rotatable intermediate key bar moves between the first position and the second position when the magnetic field is at the first setting and above a threshold magnetic field strength or when the magnetic field is at the second setting and above the threshold magnetic field strength.

12. The key structure according to claim 1, wherein: The first end and the second end of the U-shaped metal rod include lateral extensions that reduce the distance from the U-shaped metal rod to the rotatable intermediate key rod.

13. The key structure according to claim 1, wherein: The magnetized element is a ferromagnetic block.

14. A key structure comprising: Upper key rod; Lower key bar; a rotatable intermediate key rod, the intermediate key rod including a magnetized element disposed therein, the rotatable intermediate key rod being coupled between the upper key rod and the lower key rod and axially aligned with the upper key rod and the lower key rod, wherein the rotatable intermediate key rod is operable to be able to rotate longitudinally between a first position and a second position, wherein the upper key rod and the lower key rod are fixed in rotation; a magnetic field generator configured to direct a magnetic field through the magnetized element of the rotatable intermediate key rod, wherein the generated magnetic field applies a first magnetic force to the magnetized element when in a first setting to rotate the intermediate key rod to the first position, and The generated magnetic field applies a second magnetic force to the magnetized element when in a second setting to rotate the intermediate key rod to the second position.

15. The key structure according to claim 14, further comprising: one or more processors; as well as a coil operable to generate the generated magnetic field, Wherein the one or more processors are operable to control a current flowing through the coil, the current comprising a first current that sets the generated magnetic field to the first setting and a second current that sets the generated magnetic field to the second setting.

16. The key structure according to claim 14, wherein: The upper key bar remains longitudinally stationary when the intermediate key bar rotates between the first position and the second position.

17. The key structure according to claim 14, wherein: The rotatable intermediate key rod includes a protrusion, wherein the biasing element is configured adjacent to the intermediate key rod, wherein, in the first position, the biasing element engages with the protrusion when the key structure is depressed to produce a first feedback effect, and Wherein, in the second position, the biasing element bypasses the protrusion when the key structure is depressed to produce a second feedback effect.

18. The key structure according to claim 17, wherein: The first feedback effect is a click-like feedback effect caused primarily by the movement of the biasing element over the profile of the protrusion.

19. The key structure according to claim 17, further comprising a second biasing element, the second biasing element providing a restoring force to move the key structure from the depressed position to the undepressed position, wherein The second feedback effect is a linear type feedback mainly caused by the restoring force of the second biasing element.

20. A keyboard, comprising: one or more processors; A plurality of depressible key structures, each key structure comprising: Upper key rod; Lower key bar; a rotatable intermediate key rod, the intermediate key rod including a magnetized element disposed therein, the rotatable intermediate key rod being coupled between the upper key rod and the lower key rod and axially aligned with the upper key rod and the lower key rod, the rotatable intermediate key rod including a protrusion, wherein the rotatable intermediate key rod is operable to be longitudinally rotatable between a first position and a second position while the upper key rod and the lower key rod remain longitudinally stationary; a biasing element configured to be adjacent to the intermediate key rod; a U-shaped metal rod having a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being configured to be adjacent to and on opposite sides of the intermediate key rod; and a coil having a first side and a second side, the coil being coupled to the metal rod, the coil being operable to generate a magnetic field when energized by a power source, wherein the generated magnetic field, when in a first setting, magnetically manipulates the magnetized element to rotate the intermediate key rod to the first position in which the biasing element engages the protrusion to produce a first feedback effect when the key structure is depressed, wherein the generated magnetic field magnetically manipulates the magnetized element when in the second setting to rotate the intermediate key rod to the second position in which the biasing element does not engage the protrusion when the key structure is depressed to produce a second feedback effect, and Wherein, the one or more processors are operable to control current flowing through each coil of the plurality of depressible key structures, the current comprising a first current that sets the generated magnetic field to the first setting and a second current that sets the generated magnetic field to the second setting.

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