Input device, preparation method thereof and electronic equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of terminal equipment, in particular to an input device, a preparation method thereof and electronic equipment. The input device comprises a circuit layer and a key layer, wherein the circuit layer comprises at least one electric contact; the key layer is arranged on one side of the circuit layer, the surface, away from the circuit layer, of the key layer is a continuous surface, the key layer comprises at least one pressing area arranged in a staggered mode and elastic areas arranged in the circumferential direction of each pressing area and connected with the pressing area in the circumferential direction, and the at least one pressing area corresponds to the at least one electric contact in a one-to-one mode; wherein the hardness of the pressing area is larger than that of the elastic area, and when the pressing area is pressed, the elastic area arranged in the circumferential direction of the pressing area is bent and deformed, so that the pressing area can move in the pressing direction, the corresponding electric contact is triggered to be closed, and an electric signal is generated. According to the input device, dust and other pollutants can be prevented from entering the input device, the dustproof and waterproof effects are achieved, and therefore the service life of the input device is prolonged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of terminal equipment, and in particular to an input device and a preparation method thereof, and an electronic device. Background Art

[0002] Many electronic devices have input / output devices for receiving input and interaction from users. The input / output devices may include keyboards, key assemblies, buttons, etc., for receiving user input. For example, a keyboard is typically designed with keys that are pressed by the user to generate input signals that can be recognized by a processor or controller. The keys can provide a controlled amount of resistance to the user's fingertips to provide tactile feedback when the user presses the button or key, thereby helping the user more easily sense when and where to press the key.

[0003] In existing keyboards, each key typically has a large number of very small moving parts, resulting in a complex structure. Moreover, to enable the keys to move and reset flexibly, gaps are usually provided between adjacent keys and at the joints between the keys and the bottom of the keyboard. Dust and other impurities can easily enter the keyboard through these gaps, thereby affecting the cleanliness and performance of the keyboard. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The embodiments of the present application provide an input device, a method for manufacturing the same, and an electronic device, so that the input device not only has a simple structure but also can prevent or reduce the entry of pollutants into the interior of the input device.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides an input device, which includes a circuit layer and a key layer, the circuit layer including at least one electrical contact; the key layer is arranged on one side of the circuit layer, and the surface of the key layer facing away from the circuit layer is a continuous surface, the key layer includes at least one pressing area arranged in an alternating manner and an elasticized area arranged circumferentially around each pressing area and circumferentially connected to the pressing area, at least one pressing area corresponds one-to-one to at least one electrical contact; wherein the hardness of the pressing area is greater than the hardness of the elasticized area, and when the pressing area is pressed, the elasticized area arranged circumferentially along the pressing area undergoes bending deformation, so that the pressing area can move along the pressing direction and trigger the corresponding electrical contact to close, thereby generating an electrical signal.

[0006] When a user presses the pressing area, because the hardness of the pressing area is greater than that of the elasticized area, the elasticized area disposed circumferentially along the pressing area bends and deforms, allowing the pressing area to move in the pressing direction and triggering the corresponding electrical contacts to close, generating an electrical signal. The electrical signal can then be recognized and processed by an electronic device including the input device, thereby enabling the user to control the electronic device. Furthermore, compared to existing input devices that have complex structures and gaps that allow easy entry of impurities, the input device of the present application has a continuous surface on the key layer facing away from the circuit layer, which prevents contaminants such as dust from entering the input device through the gaps, providing a dustproof and waterproof effect, thereby extending the service life of the input device. Furthermore, the key layer does not require a large number of very small moving parts, resulting in a simple structure, a clean appearance, and ease of manufacture.

[0007] For example, the hardness of the pressing area is greater than or equal to 50 shore D, and the hardness of the elasticized area is 10-80 shore A. Suitable materials are selected according to the above ranges, and the hardness of the pressing area must be greater than that of the elasticized area.

[0008] It is understandable that to improve the cleanliness of the input device, the surface of the key layer facing away from the circuit layer can be flat for easier cleaning, thereby effectively preventing the accumulation of dust and other contaminants on the key layer surface. However, when the surface of the key layer facing away from the circuit layer is a continuous plane, it becomes difficult to distinguish between the pressing area and the elasticized area. For example, when using a keyboard as an example, a user cannot distinguish between the pressing area and the elasticized area by the height difference when typing blindly.

[0009] To address the above issues, one possible implementation method is to provide different tactile sensations for the surface of the pressing area facing away from the circuit layer and the surface of the elasticized area facing away from the circuit layer. This allows users to distinguish between the pressing area and the elasticized area through different tactile sensations, thereby improving blind typing accuracy. Tactile sensations include, but are not limited to, hardness, roughness, texture, lubricity, or elasticity. For example, the surface of the pressing area facing away from the circuit layer has a smoother tactile sensation than the surface of the elasticized area facing away from the circuit layer, making it easier for users to distinguish between the two and enhancing the user's tactile experience.

[0010] In another possible implementation, in order to conform to the user's existing usage habits, the surface of the pressing area facing away from the circuit layer can be appropriately higher than the surface of the elasticized area facing away from the circuit layer, which makes it easier for users to distinguish between the pressing area and the elasticized area. The setting of the height difference between the two surfaces can take into account both improving the user experience and the difficulty of cleaning the surface of the button layer facing away from the circuit layer.

[0011] In one possible embodiment, both the pressing area and the elasticized area can be made of an elastic material, and the pressing area can also undergo elastic deformation along the pressing direction, thereby increasing key travel and improving the user experience. It is understood that the materials for the pressing area and the elasticized area are selected based on parameters such as hardness and elasticity. Specifically, the elastic material includes at least one of thermoplastic elastomer, liquid silicone rubber, photosensitive polymer, hydrogel, metal, plastic, and glass. For example, the pressing area and the elasticized area can be made of the same elastic material, and the manufacturing process can be controlled to achieve different performance parameters such as hardness for the pressing area and the elasticized area. Of course, the pressing area and the elasticized area can also be made of different elastic materials.

[0012] When the pressing area is pressed, the elasticized area bends and deforms from its initial state, causing the pressing area to move in the pressing direction. When the pressing pressure disappears, the elasticized area can have a greater elasticity than the pressing area to enable the elasticized area to quickly return to its initial state. For example, the difference between the elastic modulus of the elasticized area and the pressing area can be greater than or equal to 30 MPa. This allows the elasticized area to maintain good deformation capacity, reduces the interaction between adjacent pressing areas, and improves input accuracy.

[0013] It is understood that the number of pressing areas can be one, two, or more, depending on actual needs. When there are at least two pressing areas, any two adjacent pressing areas are connected by an elasticized area. The input device with the above structure has a simple structure and a neat appearance. However, when any pressing area is pressed, the elasticized area disposed circumferentially around the pressing area bends, which can generate stress on other pressing areas adjacent to the pressing area. To reduce the mutual influence between adjacent pressing areas, the input device with the above structure can strictly control the hardness and elastic modulus of the pressing area and the elasticized area within an appropriate range during manufacture. This prevents pressing any pressing area from causing other adjacent pressing areas to move in the pressing direction, or controls the displacement in the pressing direction within a preset range to prevent the corresponding electrical contacts from closing, thereby improving input accuracy.

[0014] In order to further avoid mutual influence between adjacent pressing areas, a rigidized area can be provided between any two adjacent elasticized areas. When any pressing area is pressed, the elasticized area arranged along the circumference of the pressing area bends and deforms, so that the pressing area moves along the pressing direction. At the same time, the stress generated by the bending deformation of the above-mentioned elasticized area acts on the rigidized area arranged along the circumference of the above-mentioned elasticized area. Moreover, because the rigidized area is rigid, the influence on other pressing areas adjacent to the pressing area can be reduced or avoided, thereby improving the accuracy of input.

[0015] Among them, when the number of pressing areas and elastic areas is both one, the key layer may also include a rigidized area arranged along the circumference of the elasticized area. In the input device of the above structure, the function of the rigidized area is to support the elasticized area and prevent the elasticized area from being affected by external forces.

[0016] In one possible embodiment, the input device is integrated into the electronic device, and the key layer may not include a rigidified area. Taking a laptop computer as an example, a mounting groove is provided on the C-side of the laptop computer, and the input device is located in the mounting groove. The elastic area located on the edge of the key layer is circumferentially connected to the C-shell of the laptop computer, that is, the shell of the laptop computer can support and protect the key layer of the input device.

[0017] In one possible embodiment, the input device further includes a pressure sensing assembly corresponding to each electrical contact, each pressure sensing assembly being disposed between a corresponding pressing area and an electrical contact and connected to the corresponding pressing area. Each pressure sensing assembly includes a pressure sensor, a tactile vibrator, and a control unit; the pressure sensor is configured to detect the pressing pressure applied to the corresponding pressing area; the tactile vibrator is configured to generate vibrations along the pressing direction to provide tactile feedback; and the control unit is electrically connected to the pressure sensor and the tactile vibrator, respectively, and is configured to drive the tactile vibrator to vibrate when determining that the pressing pressure detected by the pressure sensor reaches a preset pressure, thereby increasing the key travel and providing the user with a better tactile experience.

[0018] The tactile vibrator generates vibrations in the pressing direction to provide the user with a "cushioning" or "convex" feeling in the pressing direction. Exemplarily, the tactile vibrator may be a tactile motor, a linear resonant actuator, a piezoelectric driver, an electromagnetic element, a solenoid, and related vibration or other motion drivers, or a combination of the above devices.

[0019] In a second aspect, the present application provides a method for preparing an input device, the method comprising the following steps:

[0020] fabricating a circuit layer, the circuit layer comprising at least one electrical contact;

[0021] A key layer is fabricated, the key layer being disposed on one side of the circuit layer, the surface of the key layer facing away from the circuit layer being a continuous surface, the key layer comprising at least one alternately arranged pressing area and an elasticized area disposed circumferentially around each pressing area and connected to the pressing area, the at least one pressing area corresponding one-to-one to the at least one electrical contact;

[0022] Among them, the hardness of the pressing area is greater than the hardness of the elasticized area. When the pressing area is pressed, the elasticized area arranged along the circumference of the pressing area undergoes bending deformation, so that the pressing area can move along the pressing direction and trigger the corresponding electrical contacts to close, thereby generating an electrical signal.

[0023] The input device manufacturing method disclosed herein produces a key layer comprising alternating pressing and elastic regions. The steps are simple. Furthermore, compared to existing keyboards, where each key typically has numerous very small moving parts, the key layer disclosed herein can reduce the number of structural components, saving manufacturing costs. The input device fabricated using this method has the advantages of a simple structure and a clean appearance. Furthermore, the surface of the key layer facing away from the circuit layer is a continuous surface, providing dust and water resistance.

[0024] In a possible embodiment, manufacturing the button layer includes the steps of: using a first elastic material to manufacture the pressing area; using a second elastic material to manufacture the elasticized area; and the elasticity of the first elastic material is less than that of the second elastic material.

[0025] It is understood that the present application does not limit the specific implementation method for preparing the pressing area and the elasticized area, as long as the input device of the various possible implementations of the first aspect can be prepared. Optionally, the first elastic material and the second elastic material can be the same material or different materials.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the first elastic material and the second elastic material are made of the same material, and the molding temperature for forming the pressing area is lower than the molding temperature for forming the elasticized area. Specifically, the elastic material is poured into the groove of the base plate at one time, and an electromagnetic heating sleeve is embedded in the predetermined area of ​​the elastic material to increase the molding temperature of the elastic material in the predetermined area to be higher than that in other areas. As a result, the elastic material in the predetermined area forms a pressing area with higher hardness, while the elastic material in other areas forms an elasticized area with lower hardness. Exemplary elastic materials may include thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), liquid silicone rubber (LSR), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), etc.

[0027] In another possible implementation, the first and second elastic materials can be made of the same material, and the degree of crosslinking in the pressing area during molding is higher than that in the elasticized area. Specifically, the elastic material is poured into the groove of the base plate at one time, and a mask with a predetermined pattern is covered on the surface of the elastic material. Under lighting conditions, the areas covered by the mask receive different light intensities than those not covered by the mask, thereby dividing the elastic material into alternating pressing and elasticized areas. In other words, by controlling the light intensity of different areas, the degree of crosslinking in the pressing area and the elasticized area is different, resulting in different hardnesses in the two areas. Exemplary elastic materials can be photosensitive polymers, hydrogels, and the like.

[0028] In another possible implementation, the first elastic material and the second elastic material may be made of different materials, with the first elastic material having a higher hardness than the second elastic material. For example, the first elastic material and the second elastic material are 3D printed to form a pressing area and an elasticized area, respectively. The first elastic material may be an elastomeric liquid with a higher hardness, and the second elastic material may be an elastomeric liquid with a lower hardness. Alternatively, the first elastic material may be processed into a main structure having at least two pressing areas, and then the second elastic material may be injected between any two adjacent pressing areas. After cooling, the second elastic material forms an elasticized area. The first elastic material includes, but is not limited to, plastic, glass, metal, rubber, or a molded plastic part, and the second elastic material may be TPU, TPO, or LSR.

[0029] In one possible embodiment, the manufacturing method further includes: forming a rigidized region using a rigid material, wherein the rigidized region is disposed along the circumference of the elasticized region and is circumferentially connected to the elasticized region. The rigid material includes, but is not limited to, metal, glass, ceramic, or transparent fiberglass. Furthermore, the rigidized region, the elasticized region, and the pressing region are all integrally formed, so that the surface of the button layer facing away from the circuit layer forms a continuous surface.

[0030] On the third aspect, the present application provides an electronic device, which includes the input device of the above-mentioned first aspect and any possible implementation thereof, or the electronic device includes the input device prepared by the preparation method of the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof. The electronic devices in the present application include mobile phones, personal computers, tablet computers, smart phones, printers, scanners, etc. Because the input device of the first aspect of the present application and any possible implementation thereof is applied, or the input device prepared by the preparation method of the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof is applied, the electronic device in the present application also has the advantages of simple structure, concise appearance, and can prevent pollutants from entering the interior of the input device, thereby improving the performance and service life of the input device and the electronic device including the input device.

[0031] In one possible embodiment, the electronic device further includes a computing module and a display module. The computing module is configured to calculate information input by a user via an input device and convert it into a display signal, and the display module is configured to display the display signal. The input device and the display module can be connected via a wired, wireless, or Bluetooth connection, depending on actual needs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and effects of this application clearer and more specific, the following is a description of the drawings of this application. It should be noted that the drawings do not represent the actual proportions and are only used to better explain this application and are not used to limit this application.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of an input device according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0034] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the input device proposed in this application in an initial state;

[0035] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the input device proposed in this application in a triggered state;

[0036] Figure 4 This is a structural diagram of an input device according to another embodiment of the present application;

[0037] Figure 5is a cross-sectional view of an input device in an initial state according to another embodiment of the present application;

[0038] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of an input device in a triggered state according to another embodiment of the present application;

[0039] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0040] Figure 8 This is a flow chart of a method for preparing an input device according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0041] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of a preparation method according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0042] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of a preparation method according to another embodiment of the present application;

[0043] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of a preparation method according to another embodiment of the present application;

[0044] Figure 12 This is a schematic structural diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0045] Figure 13 This is a schematic structural diagram of an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present application;

[0046] Figure 14 This is a structural diagram of an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0047] Reference numerals:

[0048] 100 - key layer; 110 - pressing area; 120 - elasticized area; 130 - rigidified area; 200 - circuit layer; 210 - electrical contacts; 300 - bottom plate; 400 - pressure sensor; 500 - tactile vibrator; 600 - control unit; 700 - power module; 800 - display module; 900 - touchpad;

[0049] 10-mask; 20-light source; 30-electromagnetic heating sleeve; 40-first syringe; 50-second syringe; 60-A shell; 70-D shell; 80-bracket. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of this application clearer, this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] The terms used in the following embodiments are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present application. As used in the specification and appended claims of this application, the singular expressions "a", "an", "above", "the", and "this" are intended to also include expressions such as "one or more", unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0052] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" in this specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with that embodiment is included in one or more embodiments of the present application. Thus, phrases such as "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," and "in yet other embodiments" appearing in various places in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more but not all embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "including," "comprising," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0053] Many electronic devices have input devices to receive input and interaction from users. The input devices may include keyboards, key assemblies, buttons, etc. for receiving user input. At present, with the development trend of electronic devices becoming thinner and smaller, input devices, such as keyboards, also need to be smaller and lighter. However, it is difficult for keyboards to have excellent feedback feel while being thin and light, resulting in a reduced user experience. In addition, in existing interface devices, each key usually includes a large number of very small moving parts such as keycaps, scissor mechanisms, dome switches, switch housings, etc., and the structure is complex. Moreover, in order to enable the keys to be flexibly moved and reset, gaps are usually provided between adjacent keys and at the joints between the keys and the bottom of the keyboard. Impurities such as dust can easily enter the interior of the keyboard through these gaps, thereby affecting the cleanliness and performance of the keyboard.

[0054] In view of this, an embodiment of the present application provides an input device, Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 1Taking a keyboard as an example, the input device comprises a circuit layer 200 and a key layer 100. The key layer 100 is disposed on one side of the circuit layer 200. The key layer 100 includes at least one alternately arranged pressing area 110 and an elasticized area 120 disposed circumferentially around each pressing area 110. The elasticized area 120 is circumferentially connected to the pressing area 110. The pressing area 110 has a greater hardness than the elasticized area 120. When the pressing area 110 is pressed, the elasticized area 120 disposed circumferentially around the pressing area 110 bends and deforms, allowing the pressing area 110 to move in the pressing direction and activating conduction at the corresponding electrical contacts in the circuit layer 200, thereby completing information input. The surface of the key layer 100 facing away from the circuit layer 200 is continuous, preventing dust and other contaminants from entering the input device through gaps, thus providing a dustproof and waterproof effect. Furthermore, the surface is clean and easy to clean, which helps to ensure the performance and service life of the input device.

[0055] The input device may be a keyboard used with a computer, mobile phone, typewriter, or digital camera, or may be part of a keyboard instrument such as a piano or electronic organ. It is understood that the input device may be integrated into the electronic device or may be an "external" device independent of the electronic device.

[0056] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the input device proposed in this application in an initial state. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the input device proposed in this application in a triggered state, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The circuit layer 200 includes at least one electrical contact 210, and the at least one electrical contact 210 corresponds to at least one pressing area 110. In the initial state, the pressing area 110 and the electrical contact 210 are separated. When the pressing area 110 is pressed, the elasticized area 120 arranged along the circumference of the pressing area 110 bends and deforms, so that the pressing area 110 can move along the pressing direction D1. When the pressing area 110 moves to a preset position, the corresponding electrical contact 210 is triggered to close, thereby stimulating the corresponding input signal circuit in the circuit layer 200 to be turned on and generate a corresponding electrical signal. The above electrical signal can be further recognized by the processor of the electronic device, thereby realizing information input or human-computer interaction.

[0057] It is understood that when the surface of the key layer 100 facing away from the circuit layer 200 is flat, it is easier to clean, effectively preventing dust and other contaminants from accumulating on the surface of the key layer 100, thereby achieving a higher degree of cleanliness. However, when the surface of the key layer 100 facing away from the circuit layer 200 is a continuous plane, there is a problem of difficulty in distinguishing the pressing area 110 from the elasticized area 120. In view of this, the input device of the present application may further include a base plate 300, at least one light source (not shown) disposed between the base plate 300 and the key layer 100, and a switch for controlling the light source. The at least one light source corresponds to at least one pressing area 110. When any pressing area 110 is pressed, the switch of the light source corresponding to the pressing area 110 is triggered to turn on, activating the light source. The backlight of the pressing area 110 will briefly illuminate or change color, thereby providing visual feedback, thereby helping the user more accurately identify the location of the pressing area 110 and reducing the possibility of accidental presses.

[0058] In actual use of input devices, users often fail to distinguish between the pressing area 110 and the elasticized area 120 by sight. For example, when blind typing on a keyboard, users cannot distinguish between the pressing area 110 and the elasticized area 120 by their height difference, color, or brightness. To address this issue, one implementation can provide different tactile sensations for the surface of the pressing area 110 facing away from the circuit layer 200 and the surface of the elasticized area 120 facing away from the circuit layer 200. This allows users to distinguish between the pressing area 110 and the elasticized area 120 through different tactile sensations, thereby reducing or preventing accidental presses. Tactile sensations include, but are not limited to, hardness, roughness, texture, lubricity, or elasticity. For example, the surface of the pressing area 110 facing away from the circuit layer 200 and the surface of the elasticized area 120 facing away from the circuit layer 200 have different textures, and the two can be distinguished by the texture; or, compared with the surface of the elasticized area facing away from the circuit layer 200 having a relatively rough touch, the surface of the pressing area 110 facing away from the circuit layer 200 has a smoother touch, which makes it easier for users to distinguish between the two and helps to improve the user's tactile experience when using the device.

[0059] Of course, in order to conform to the user's existing usage habits, in another implementation, the surface of the pressing area 110 facing away from the circuit layer 200 can be appropriately higher than the surface of the elasticized area 120 facing away from the circuit layer 200, which makes it easier for the user to distinguish between the pressing area 110 and the elasticized area 120. The setting of the height difference between the two surfaces can take into account both improving the user experience and the difficulty of cleaning the surface of the button layer 100 facing away from the circuit layer 200.

[0060] It is understandable that in order to further facilitate the distinction between the pressing area 110 and the elasticized area 120, the various possible implementation methods for distinguishing the two in the present application can be combined with each other. For example, the brightness of the pressing area 110 and the elasticized area 120 are different. At the same time, the tactile feel of the surface of the pressing area 110 facing away from the circuit layer 200 and the surface of the elasticized area 120 facing away from the circuit layer 200 are different, which makes it easier for users to distinguish between the two through vision and touch at the same time, reducing the possibility of accidental presses and improving input accuracy.

[0061] In one possible embodiment, both the pressing area 110 and the elasticized area 120 can be made of an elastic material. The pressing area 110 can also undergo elastic deformation along the pressing direction, thereby increasing the key travel and improving the user experience. It is understood that the materials used to make the pressing area 110 and the elasticized area 120 are selected based on parameters such as hardness and elasticity. Specifically, the elastic material includes at least one of a thermoplastic elastomer, liquid silicone rubber, a photosensitive polymer, a hydrogel, a metal, a plastic, and glass. For example, the pressing area 110 and the elasticized area 120 can be made of the same elastic material, and the manufacturing process can be controlled to achieve different performance parameters such as hardness for the pressing area 110 and the elasticized area 120. Of course, the pressing area 110 and the elasticized area 120 can also be made of different elastic materials.

[0062] When the pressing area 110 is pressed, the elasticized area 120 bends and deforms from its initial state, causing the pressing area 110 to move in the pressing direction. When the pressing pressure disappears, the elasticized area 120 has a greater elasticity than the pressing area 110 to enable the elasticized area 120 to quickly return to its initial state. For example, the difference between the elastic modulus of the elasticized area 120 and the elastic modulus of the pressing area 110 can be greater than or equal to 30 MPa. This allows the elasticized area 120 to maintain good deformation capacity, while reducing the interaction between adjacent pressing areas 110 and improving input accuracy.

[0063] It is understood that the number of pressing areas 110 can be one, two, or more, depending on actual needs. For example, when the input device is a button on a Bluetooth headset, there can be one pressing area 110 and one elasticized area 120. The elasticized area 120 is arranged circumferentially around the pressing area 110. The Bluetooth headset housing has a mounting slot, the input device is positioned within the slot, and the outer edge of the elasticized area 120 is connected to the Bluetooth headset housing. Alternatively, when the input device is a mouse, there can be two pressing areas 110, representing the left and right buttons of the mouse, with the elasticized areas 120 arranged circumferentially around the left and right buttons, respectively. Alternatively, when the input device is a computer keyboard, there can be multiple pressing areas 110, with corresponding characters, symbols, or numbers printed on the surfaces of the multiple pressing areas 110 facing away from the circuit layer 200, such as "2," "6," "8," "," ".", "+," "R," "F," or "V."

[0064] When there are at least two pressing areas 110, any two adjacent pressing areas 110 can be directly connected via the elastic area 120. The input device with the above structure is simple in structure and neat in appearance. However, when any pressing area 110 is pressed, Figure 3 As shown, when the pressing area 110(a) is pressed, the elasticized area 120 arranged along the circumference of the pressing area 110(a) bends, so that the pressing area 110(a) can move along the pressing direction D1. The elasticized area 120(b) arranged along the circumference of the pressing area 110(a) close to the pressing area 110(a) moves along the pressing direction D1, which will generate a pulling force along the D1 direction on the end of the elasticized area 120(b) away from the pressing area 110(a), thereby generating stress on the pressing area 110(c) and the pressing area 110(f) adjacent to the elasticized area 120(b), which may cause the pressing area 110(c) and the pressing area 110(f) to move along the D1 direction, thereby causing input errors. To reduce the mutual influence between adjacent pressing areas 110, the hardness and elastic modulus of the pressing areas 110 and the elasticized area 120 can be controlled within an appropriate range during manufacturing of the input device with the above structure. This prevents pressing any pressing area 110 from causing other adjacent pressing areas 110 to move in the pressing direction. Alternatively, the displacement in the pressing direction can be controlled within a preset range to prevent the corresponding electrical contacts 210 from closing, thereby improving input accuracy.

[0065] In order to further avoid the mutual influence between adjacent pressing areas, Figure 4 This is a structural diagram of an input device according to another embodiment of the present application. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of an input device in an initial state according to another embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 A rigid region 130 may be provided between any two adjacent elastic regions 120. The rigid region 130 is made of a rigid material to avoid mutual influence between adjacent pressing regions 110. Figure 6 As shown, when any pressing area 110 is pressed, the elasticized area 120 arranged along the circumference of the pressing area 110 undergoes bending deformation, so that the pressing area 110 can move along the pressing direction. At the same time, the stress generated by the bending deformation of the elasticized area 120 acts on the rigidized area 130 arranged along the circumference of the elasticized area 120. Moreover, because the rigidized area 130 is rigid, the influence on other pressing areas 110 adjacent to the pressing area 110 can be reduced or avoided, thereby improving the accuracy of input.

[0066] When the number of the pressing area 110 and the number of the elasticized area 120 are both one, the key layer 100 may also include a rigidized area 130 arranged circumferentially along the elasticized area 120. In the input device with the above structure, the function of the rigidized area 130 is to support the elasticized area 120 and prevent the elasticized area 120 from being affected by external forces.

[0067] In one possible embodiment, the input device is integrated into an electronic device, and the key layer may not include a rigidized region. For example, in the case of a laptop keyboard, the input device has a mounting slot on the laptop's C-side, within which the input device is positioned. The elasticized region at the edge of the key layer is circumferentially connected to the laptop's C-side casing, thereby supporting and protecting the key layer of the input device. Of course, the aforementioned keyboard may also include a rigidized region, in which case the rigidized region at the edge of the key layer is circumferentially connected to the laptop's C-side casing.

[0068] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 7 The input device may further include a pressure sensing assembly corresponding to each electrical contact 210, each pressure sensing assembly being disposed between the corresponding pressing area 110 and the electrical contact 210 and connected to the corresponding pressing area 110. Each pressure sensing assembly includes a pressure sensor 400, a tactile vibrator 500, and a control unit 600; the pressure sensor 400 is configured to detect the pressing pressure applied to the corresponding pressing area 110; the tactile vibrator 500 is configured to generate vibration along the pressing direction to provide tactile feedback; and the control unit 600 is electrically connected to the pressure sensor 400 and the tactile vibrator 500, respectively, and configured to drive the tactile vibrator 500 to vibrate when determining that the pressing pressure detected by the pressure sensor 400 reaches a preset pressure, thereby increasing the key travel and providing the user with a better tactile experience.

[0069] The tactile vibrator generates vibrations in the pressing direction to provide the user with a "cushioning" or "convex" feeling in the pressing direction. Exemplarily, the tactile vibrator includes but is not limited to a haptic motor, a linear resonant actuator, a piezoelectric driver, an electromagnetic element, a solenoid, and related vibration or other motion drivers or a combination of the above devices.

[0070] Possibly, the input device in the present application further includes a power module 700 , which is respectively connected to the control unit 600 , the tactile vibrator 500 , and the pressure sensor 400 to provide power to the above components.

[0071] Continue to refer to Figure 7 The specific working process of the input device of the above structure is described as follows:

[0072] Step 1. When any pressing area 110 is pressed, the elasticized area 120 disposed circumferentially around the pressing area 110 bends and deforms, allowing the pressing area 110 to move along the pressing direction D1. The rigidized area 130 surrounding the elasticized area 120 prevents the pressing area 110 adjacent to the elasticized area 120 from being affected.

[0073] Step 2. The pressure sensor 400 corresponding to the pressing area 110 can detect the pressing pressure applied to the pressing area 110 and transmit the detected pressure value to the control unit 600. When the pressing pressure is less than the preset threshold, the control unit 600 does not provide feedback. When the pressing pressure reaches the preset threshold, the control unit 600 controls the tactile vibrator 500 to start, and the tactile vibrator 500 generates vibrations to provide corresponding tactile feedback, thereby increasing the key travel and enhancing the user's tactile experience.

[0074] The shapes and structures of the input devices in various possible embodiments of the present application are described above. The following describes the method for preparing the input device in the present application. Figure 8 This is a flow chart of a method for preparing an input device according to an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 8 , the preparation method comprises the following steps:

[0075] fabricating a circuit layer, the circuit layer comprising at least one electrical contact;

[0076] A key layer is fabricated, the key layer being disposed on one side of the circuit layer, the surface of the key layer facing away from the circuit layer being a continuous surface, the key layer comprising at least one alternately arranged pressing area and an elasticized area disposed circumferentially around each pressing area and connected to the pressing area, the at least one pressing area corresponding one-to-one to the at least one electrical contact;

[0077] Among them, the hardness of the pressing area is greater than the hardness of the elasticized area. When the pressing area is pressed, the elasticized area arranged along the circumference of the pressing area undergoes bending deformation, so that the pressing area can move along the pressing direction and trigger the corresponding electrical contacts to close, thereby generating an electrical signal.

[0078] The above-described preparation method is simple and easy to follow. Furthermore, compared to existing keyboards, where each key typically has a large number of very small moving parts, the key layer in this application can significantly reduce the number of structural components, saving production costs and assembly time. The input device produced using this preparation method has the advantages of a simple structure and a neat appearance. Furthermore, the surface of the key layer facing away from the circuit layer is a continuous surface, which is not only dust-proof and waterproof but also easy to clean.

[0079] In a possible embodiment, manufacturing the button layer includes the steps of: using a first elastic material to manufacture the pressing area; and using a second elastic material to manufacture the elasticized area; wherein the elasticity of the first elastic material may be smaller than the elasticity of the second elastic material.

[0080] It is understood that the present application does not limit the specific implementation method for preparing the pressing area and the elasticized area, as long as the input device of the various possible implementations of the first aspect can be prepared. Optionally, the first elastic material and the second elastic material can be the same material or different materials.

[0081] In a possible implementation, the first elastic material and the second elastic material are made of the same material, and a molding temperature when molding the pressing area is lower than a molding temperature when molding the elasticized area. Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a preparation method of an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 9 The elastic material is poured into the groove of the mold at one time, and the electromagnetic heating sleeve 30 is embedded in the predetermined area of ​​the elastic material, so that the molding temperature of the elastic material in the predetermined area is higher than that of other areas, so that the elastic material in the predetermined area forms a pressing area 110 with higher hardness, and the elastic material in other areas forms an elasticized area 120 with lower hardness. After cooling, the mold is demolded to obtain the key layer 100. The elastic material includes but is not limited to thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), liquid silicone rubber (LSR), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), etc.

[0082] In another possible implementation, the first elastic material and the second elastic material are made of the same material, and the degree of cross-linking of the material in the pressing area when it is formed is higher than the degree of cross-linking of the material in the elasticized area when it is formed. Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a preparation method of another embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 10 The elastic material is poured into the groove of the mold all at once, and a mask 10 with a preset pattern is placed on the surface of the elastic material. Under lighting conditions, the areas covered by the mask 10 and the areas not covered by the mask 10 receive different light intensities, dividing the elastic material into alternating pressing areas 110 and elasticized areas 120. Specifically, the areas not covered by the mask 10 receive stronger light intensity, resulting in a higher degree of crosslinking during molding of the material in these areas, and a greater number of crosslinking points in compound A, forming pressing areas 110 with higher hardness. Conversely, the areas covered by the mask 10 receive weaker light intensity, resulting in a lower degree of crosslinking during molding of the material in these areas, and a lower number of crosslinking points in compound A, forming elasticized areas 120 with lower hardness. After cooling, the material is demolded to obtain the key layer 100. Exemplary materials such as the elastic material may be photosensitive polymers, hydrogels, or the like.

[0083] In another possible implementation, the first elastic material and the second elastic material are made of different materials, and the hardness of the first elastic material is higher than that of the second elastic material. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a preparation method of another embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 11 The first elastic material and the second elastic material are respectively printed into the pressing area 110 and the elasticized area 120 by 3D printing technology. Specifically, the first elastic material can be an elastomeric liquid with higher hardness, which is injected into the first syringe 40, and the second elastic material can be an elastomeric liquid with lower hardness, which is injected into the second syringe 50. The first elastic material is heated and extruded through the nozzle of the first syringe 40, and the second elastic material is heated and extruded through the nozzle of the second syringe 50. By sequentially extruding the first elastic material and the second elastic material, they are stacked layer by layer, and the materials harden after cooling to form the pressing area 110 and the elasticized area 120 respectively.

[0084] Optionally, a first elastic material is first processed into a main structure having at least two pressing areas, and then a second elastic material is injected between any two adjacent pressing areas. After cooling, the second elastic material forms an elasticized area, and finally, the button layer is obtained by demolding. The first elastic material includes but is not limited to plastic, glass, metal, rubber, or a molded plastic part, and the second elastic material includes but is not limited to TPU, TPO, or LSR.

[0085] In one possible embodiment, the preparation method may further include: preparing a rigidized region using a rigid material, wherein the rigidized region is disposed circumferentially along and circumferentially connected to the elasticized region. The rigid material includes, but is not limited to, metal, glass, ceramic, or transparent fiberglass. Furthermore, the rigidized region, the elasticized region, and the pressing region are all integrally formed so that the surface of the button layer facing away from the circuit layer forms a continuous surface. The rigidized region may be prepared using 3D printing technology or insert injection molding.

[0086] Based on the same technical concept, an embodiment of the present application also provides an electronic device, which includes an input device in various possible embodiments of the present application, or the electronic device includes an input device prepared by the preparation method in various possible embodiments of the present application. The electronic devices in the present application include mobile phones, personal computers, tablet computers, smart phones, printers, scanners, etc. Because the input device in the first aspect of the present application and any possible implementation thereof is applied, or the input device prepared by the preparation method in the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof is applied, the electronic device in the present application also has the advantages of simple structure, simple appearance, and can prevent pollutants from entering the interior of the input device, thereby improving the performance and service life of the input device and the electronic device including the input device.

[0087] In one possible embodiment, the electronic device further includes a computing module and a display module. The computing module is configured to calculate and convert information input by a user through an input device into an image signal, and the display module is configured to display the image signal. The input device and the display module can be connected via a wired, wireless, or Bluetooth connection, depending on actual needs.

[0088] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 12 The electronic device is a laptop computer, which includes a B-side display screen (display module 800), a C-side keyboard (i.e., the input device provided in the above-mentioned embodiments of the present application), a C-side touchpad 900, and an A shell 60 and a D shell 70. The C-side keyboard can use the input device provided in the above-mentioned embodiments and is one of the main ways for users to interact with the laptop computer. It is used to input text, numbers and execute various commands.

[0089] Figure 13 This is a structural diagram of an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 13The electronic device is a tablet computer, which includes a display screen 800. The input device is a keyboard leather case used in conjunction with the tablet computer. The keyboard leather case includes a keyboard unit, a touchpad 900, a bracket 80, a leather case (not shown in the figure), a battery unit (not shown in the figure) and a connecting unit (not shown in the figure), etc. The keyboard unit can use the input device provided by the above-mentioned embodiments of the present application. For example, the keyboard unit includes a key layer 100 and a circuit layer 200 provided at the bottom of the key layer 100. The key layer 100 includes staggered pressing areas 110 and elasticized areas 120. The surface of the key layer 100 away from the circuit layer 200 is a continuous plane with a simple appearance and high cleanliness. The above-mentioned keyboard unit and the tablet computer are connected by a connecting unit, and the leather case can wrap the tablet computer to protect it.

[0090] Figure 14 This is a structural diagram of an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 14 The electronic device is a foldable computer, which includes a display screen 800 and an input device, an independent keyboard. The independent keyboard includes a keyboard unit, a battery unit (not shown), and a connection unit (not shown). For example, the keyboard unit includes a key layer 100 and a circuit layer 200 disposed at the bottom of the key layer 100. The key layer 100 includes alternately arranged pressing areas 110 and elasticized areas 120. The surface of the key layer 100 facing away from the circuit layer 200 is a continuous plane, resulting in a simple and clean appearance. The keyboard unit is connected to the foldable computer or desktop computer via the connection unit. The independent keyboard can be used alone or in combination with other devices, providing high flexibility.

[0091] Obviously, those skilled in the art may make various changes and modifications to the present application without departing from the scope of the present application. Thus, if these modifications and variations of the present application fall within the scope of the claims of the present application and their equivalents, the present application is intended to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. An input device, characterized in that: include: a circuit layer (200), the circuit layer (200) comprising at least one electrical contact (210); A key layer (100), the key layer (100) being arranged on one side of the circuit layer (200), the surface of the key layer (100) facing away from the circuit layer (200) being a continuous surface, the key layer (100) comprising at least one pressing area (110) arranged in an alternating manner, and an elasticized area (120) arranged circumferentially around each pressing area (110) and circumferentially connected to the pressing area (110), the at least one pressing area (110) corresponding one-to-one to the at least one electrical contact (210); The hardness of the pressing area (110) is greater than the hardness of the elasticized area (120). When the pressing area (110) is pressed, the elasticized area (120) arranged along the circumference of the pressing area (110) undergoes bending deformation, so that the pressing area (110) can move along the pressing direction and trigger the corresponding electrical contact (210) to close, thereby generating an electrical signal.

2. The input device according to claim 1, wherein The surface of the key layer (100) facing away from the circuit layer (200) is a plane.

3. The input device according to claim 1, wherein The surface of the pressing area (110) facing away from the circuit layer (200) is higher than the surface of the elasticized area (120) facing away from the circuit layer (200).

4. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The surface of the pressing area (110) facing away from the circuit layer (200) and the surface of the elasticized area (120) facing away from the circuit layer (200) have different tactile sensations.

5. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The pressing area (110) and the elasticized area (120) are both made of elastic materials, and the elasticity of the elasticized area (120) is greater than the elasticity of the pressing area (110).

6. The input device according to claim 5, wherein The elastic material includes at least one of thermoplastic elastomer, liquid silicone rubber, photosensitive polymer, hydrogel, metal, plastic and glass.

7. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The number of the pressing areas (110) is at least two, and any two adjacent pressing areas (110) are connected via the elasticized area (120).

8. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The key layer (100) includes a rigidized region (130), wherein the rigidized region (130) is arranged along the circumference of the elasticized region (120) and is circumferentially connected to the elasticized region (120).

9. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The input device further comprises a pressure sensing component corresponding to each of the electrical contacts (210) one by one; each of the pressure sensing components is arranged between the corresponding pressing area (110) and the electrical contact (210) and is connected to the corresponding pressing area (110); Each of the pressure sensing components includes a pressure sensor (400), a tactile vibrator (500) and a control unit (600); The pressure sensor (400) is used to detect the pressing pressure applied to the corresponding pressing area (110); The tactile vibrator (500) is used to generate vibration along the pressing direction to provide tactile feedback; The control unit (600) is electrically connected to the pressure sensor (400) and the tactile vibrator (500) respectively, and is used to drive the tactile vibrator (500) to generate vibration when it is determined that the pressing pressure detected by the pressure sensor (400) reaches a preset pressure.

10. A method for preparing an input device, characterized in that: The steps include: Producing a circuit layer (200), wherein the circuit layer (200) includes at least one electrical contact (210); A key layer (100) is manufactured, wherein the key layer (100) is arranged on one side of the circuit layer (200), and the surface of the key layer (100) facing away from the circuit layer (200) is a continuous surface, the key layer (100) comprises at least one pressing area (110) arranged in an alternating manner, and an elasticized area (120) arranged circumferentially around each pressing area (110) and circumferentially connected to the pressing area (110), and the at least one pressing area (110) corresponds one-to-one to the at least one electrical contact (210); The hardness of the pressing area (110) is greater than the hardness of the elasticized area (120). When the pressing area (110) is pressed, the elasticized area (120) arranged along the circumference of the pressing area (110) undergoes bending deformation, so that the pressing area (110) can move along the pressing direction and trigger the corresponding electrical contact (210) to close, thereby generating an electrical signal.

11. The preparation method according to claim 10, characterized in that The manufacturing of the key layer (100) comprises the following steps: The pressing area (110) is made of a first elastic material; Using a second elastic material to form the elasticized region (120); The elasticity of the first elastic material is lower than the elasticity of the second elastic material.

12. The preparation method according to claim 11, characterized in that The first elastic material and the second elastic material are made of the same material, and a molding temperature when molding the pressing area is lower than a molding temperature when molding the elasticized area.

13. The preparation method according to claim 11, wherein The first elastic material and the second elastic material are made of the same material, and the cross-linking degree of the material when the pressing area is formed is higher than the cross-linking degree of the material when the elasticized area is formed.

14. The preparation method according to claim 11, wherein The first elastic material and the second elastic material are made of different materials, and the hardness of the first elastic material is higher than that of the second elastic material.

15. The preparation method according to any one of claims 10 to 14, characterized in that: Also includes: A rigidized region (200) is prepared using a rigid material, wherein the rigidized region (130) is arranged along the circumference of the elasticized region (120) and is circumferentially connected to the elasticized region (120).

16. An electronic device, characterized in that: The input device comprises the input device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, or the input device prepared by the preparation method according to any one of claims 10 to 15.

17. The electronic device according to claim 16, wherein: The electronic device further comprises a computing module and a display module (800); The computing module is used to calculate the information input by the user through the input device and convert it into a display signal; The display module (800) is used to display the display signal.

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