Key and electronic device

Abstract

This application relates to the field of electronic device technology, and discloses a button and an electronic device. The button includes a keycap, a first spring, a connector, a first pressure-sensitive device, and a second pressure-sensitive device. The keycap includes a first pressing area and a second pressing area arranged along a first direction, which is perpendicular to the pressing direction. The first spring is disposed on the side of the keycap facing the pressing direction and includes a first area and a second area arranged along the first direction. The connector is disposed between the keycap and the first spring, and is used to connect the first pressing area and the first area with a first connecting stiffness, and to connect the second pressing area and the second area with a second connecting stiffness. The first pressure-sensitive device is disposed on the surface of the first area facing the pressing direction to sense the deformation of the first area. The second pressure-sensitive device is disposed on the surface of the second area facing the pressing direction to sense the deformation of the second area. The button can support different pressing operations and realize corresponding functions according to different pressing operations, thereby replacing virtual buttons such as shooting buttons and focus buttons.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic device technology, and more particularly to a button and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Virtual buttons can be displayed on the screens of electronic devices such as mobile phones and tablets, allowing users to control these devices by operating the virtual buttons.

[0003] To achieve different functions, electronic devices can now display multiple virtual buttons on their screens. For example, in shooting mode, a mobile phone screen can display virtual buttons such as a shutter button and a focus button. Clicking the shutter button controls the phone's camera to take a picture, while clicking the focus button controls the camera to focus.

[0004] However, users need to bring up the corresponding interface to operate the virtual buttons. For example, users need to bring up the shooting preview interface before they can operate the shooting button. In addition, multiple virtual buttons occupy a large portion of the display screen, which is not conducive to large-screen display. Furthermore, virtual buttons lack physical tactile feedback, making them prone to accidental touches and affecting the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Some embodiments of this application provide a button and an electronic device. The following describes this application from multiple aspects, and the embodiments and beneficial effects of the following aspects can be referred to each other.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a button. Specifically, the button includes a keycap, a first spring, a connector, a first pressure-sensitive device, and a second pressure-sensitive device. The keycap includes a first pressing area and a second pressing area arranged along a first direction, the first direction being perpendicular to the pressing direction of the button. The first spring is disposed on the side of the keycap facing the pressing direction, and includes a first region and a second region arranged along the first direction. The connector is disposed between the keycap and the first spring, and is used to connect the first pressing area and the first region with a first connection stiffness, and to connect the second pressing area and the second region with a second connection stiffness. The first pressure-sensitive device is disposed on the surface of the first region facing the pressing direction, so as to be able to sense the deformation of the first region. The second pressure-sensitive device is disposed on the surface of the second region facing the pressing direction, so as to be able to sense the deformation of the second region.

[0007] Connection stiffness refers to the ease with which a connector deforms under external force. Higher stiffness means the connector is less prone to deformation and facilitates force transmission. In other words, the connector absorbs less external force. Conversely, lower stiffness means the connector deforms more easily under external force and hinders force transmission. In other words, the connector absorbs more external force (e.g., converting it into elastic deformation).

[0008] According to an embodiment of this application, the pressing force applied to the first pressing area can be transmitted to the first region through the connector, causing the first region to deform. This deformation is then sensed by the first pressure-sensitive device, facilitating the button's response to the pressing operation of the first pressing area. Similarly, the pressing force applied to the second pressing area can be transmitted to the second region through the connector, causing the second region to deform. This deformation is then sensed by the second pressure-sensitive device, facilitating the button's response to the pressing operation of the second pressing area.

[0009] Because the first and second connection stiffnesses differ, the effect of the connector in transmitting the pressing force to the first pressing area is different from the effect in transmitting the pressing force to the second pressing area. In other words, different pressing forces need to be applied to the first and second pressing areas to achieve effective force transmission. This allows the first and second pressing areas to support different pressing operations.

[0010] For example, the first connection stiffness is greater than the second connection stiffness. Thus, when pressure is applied to the first pressing area, the connector is less prone to deformation, which facilitates the transmission of pressure within the connector. Consequently, even a small pressure can be effectively transmitted from the first pressing area to the first region through the connector, causing deformation in the first region. When pressure is applied to the second pressing area, the connector is prone to deformation, hindering the transmission of pressure within the connector. Therefore, a larger pressure is needed to overcome the pressure loss during transmission, allowing the pressure to be effectively transmitted from the second pressing area to the second region through the connector, causing deformation in the second pressing area. Therefore, the pressure applied to the second pressing area needs to be greater than the pressure applied to the first pressing area, so that the first pressing area can support light pressure, and the second pressing area can support heavy pressure.

[0011] In the button provided in this embodiment, the first pressing area and the second pressing area can support different pressing operations, and thus the button can respond to different pressing operations to achieve different functions. In this way, the functions of virtual buttons (e.g., the aforementioned shooting button and focus button) can be implemented by the button provided in this embodiment, allowing users to achieve the corresponding functions of the virtual buttons without needing to recall them. Furthermore, the electronic device containing the button does not need to display multiple virtual buttons, saving space used for virtual button layout and facilitating large-screen displays. Simultaneously, the button is a physical button with a tactile feel, allowing users to accurately identify the button's position through touch and vision, effectively reducing the risk of accidental touches and providing a superior user experience.

[0012] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the connector includes a second spring and at least one support block. The second spring and the first spring are disposed opposite each other along a pressing direction, and the support block is supported between the first spring and the second spring along the pressing direction. Along the first direction, there is a first distance between the first pressing area and the support block, a second distance between the second pressing area and the support block, and a third distance between the first area and the support block, and a fourth distance between the second area and the support block. The first distance is less than the second distance, and the third distance is less than the fourth distance, such that the first connection stiffness is greater than the second connection stiffness.

[0013] According to the embodiments of this application, along the first direction, the first pressing area is closer to the support block than the second pressing area, and the first region is closer to the support block than the second region.

[0014] Due to the supporting effect of the support block, along the first direction, the portion of the connector closer to the support block has greater connection stiffness, and the connector is less prone to deformation under external forces. Conversely, the portion of the connector farther from the support block has lower connection stiffness, and the connector is more prone to deformation under external forces. Therefore, by setting the first pressing area and the first region close to the support block, and setting the second pressing area and the second region farther from the support block, such that the first distance is smaller than the second distance and the third distance is smaller than the fourth distance, it can be ensured that the first connection stiffness is greater than the second connection stiffness. This allows the first pressing area to support light pressure, and the second pressing area to support heavy pressure.

[0015] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the support block is supported between the middle region of the first spring sheet along the first direction and the middle region of the second spring sheet along the first direction.

[0016] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the first pressing area is the middle region of the keycap along the first direction, and the second pressing area is the end region of the keycap facing the first direction. The first region is the middle region of the first spring along the first direction, and the second region is the end region of the first spring facing the first direction.

[0017] In this way, the stiffness of the first connection can be greater than that of the second connection, thereby enabling the first pressing area to support light pressure and the second pressing area to support heavy pressure.

[0018] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the keycap further includes a third pressing area, which is the end region of the keycap facing away from the first direction. The first spring also includes a third region, which is located at the end region of the first spring facing away from the first direction. The key also includes a third pressure-sensitive device, which is located on the surface of the third region facing the pressing direction, and the third pressure-sensitive device is used to sense the deformation of the third region.

[0019] Based on this, along the first direction, the third pressing area is farther away from the support block than the first pressing area. Therefore, the stiffness of the third connection is less than that of the first connection, and thus, the pressing operation supported by the third pressing area is a heavier pressing operation compared to the lighter pressing operation of the first pressing area.

[0020] For example, the third connection stiffness can be equal to the second connection stiffness, so that the third pressing area and the second pressing area can support the same heavy pressure. Alternatively, the third connection stiffness can be greater than the second connection stiffness, so that the pressing operation supported by the third pressing area is a pressing operation between the light pressure of the first pressing area and the heavy pressure of the second pressing area. Yet another example is that the third connection stiffness can be less than the second connection stiffness, so that the pressing operation supported by the third pressing area is a pressing operation that is heavier than the heavy pressure of the second pressing area.

[0021] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, at least one support block includes a first support block and a second support block, the first support block being supported between the end region of the first spring sheet facing the first direction and the end region of the second spring sheet facing the first direction, and the second support block being supported between the end region of the first spring sheet facing away from the first direction and the end region of the second spring sheet facing away from the first direction.

[0022] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the first pressing area is the end region of the keycap facing away from the first direction, and the second pressing area is the middle region of the keycap along the first direction. The first region is the end region of the first spring facing away from the first direction, and the second pressing area is the middle region of the first spring along the first direction.

[0023] In this way, the stiffness of the first connection can be greater than that of the second connection, thereby enabling the first pressing area to support light pressure and the second pressing area to support heavy pressure.

[0024] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the keycap further includes a fourth pressing area, which is the end region of the keycap facing the first direction. The first spring also includes a fourth region, which is the end region of the first spring facing the first direction. The key further includes a fourth pressure-sensitive device, which is disposed on the surface of the fourth region facing the pressing direction, and the fourth pressure-sensitive device is used to sense the deformation of the fourth region.

[0025] Based on this, along the first direction, the fourth pressing area is closer to the second support block than the second pressing area. Therefore, the fourth connection stiffness is greater than the second connection stiffness, and thus, the pressing operation supported by the fourth pressing area is a lighter pressing operation compared to the heavy pressure of the second pressing area.

[0026] For example, the fourth connection stiffness can be equal to the first connection stiffness, so that the fourth pressing area supports the same light pressure as the first pressing area. Alternatively, the third connection stiffness can be less than the first connection stiffness, so that the pressing operation supported by the fourth pressing area is between the light pressure of the first pressing area and the heavy pressure of the second pressing area. Yet another example is that the third connection stiffness can be greater than the second connection stiffness, so that the pressing operation supported by the fourth pressing area is a lighter pressing operation than the light pressure of the first pressing area.

[0027] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the projection area of ​​the first pressing area on the first spring sheet along the pressing direction at least partially overlaps with the first region, and the projection area of ​​the second pressing area on the first spring sheet along the pressing direction at least partially overlaps with the second region.

[0028] This ensures that when pressing the first pressing area in the pressing direction, the pressing force can be better transmitted from the first pressing area to the first region through the connector. Similarly, when pressing the second pressing area in the pressing direction, the pressing force can be better transmitted from the second pressing area to the second region through the connector.

[0029] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the first pressure-sensitive device is a pressure sensor, and the second pressure-sensitive device is a push-button switch.

[0030] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the pressure sensor is an ink sensor or a piezoelectric sensor.

[0031] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the first spring includes a first substrate and a first circuit board stacked sequentially along the pressing direction. A first pressure-sensitive device and a second pressure-sensitive device are respectively disposed on the surface of the first circuit board facing away from the first substrate and are electrically connected to the first circuit board.

[0032] According to an embodiment of this application, the first substrate serves as a support member, used to support the first circuit board. Furthermore, the first substrate can also act as a signal shield, preventing signals from the first circuit board from interfering with other devices.

[0033] The first circuit board can generate corresponding control signals based on the deformation sensed by the first and second pressure-sensitive devices, so that the buttons can perform corresponding functions according to different pressing operations.

[0034] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the first circuit board is a flexible circuit board.

[0035] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the button further includes at least one touch sensor located between the connector and the keycap. The touch sensor can detect touch, thereby enabling the button to support touch operation.

[0036] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, there are multiple touch sensors, which are spaced apart along a first direction. In this way, the button can sense sliding touches along the first direction.

[0037] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the connector includes a second spring and at least one support block. The second spring and the first spring are disposed opposite to each other along the pressing direction, and the support block is supported between the first spring and the second spring along the pressing direction. The second spring includes a second circuit board and a second substrate stacked sequentially along the pressing direction. A touch sensor is disposed on the surface of the second circuit board facing away from the second substrate and is electrically connected to the second circuit board.

[0038] According to an embodiment of this application, the second substrate serves as a support member, used to support the second circuit board. Furthermore, the second substrate can also act as a signal shield, preventing signals from the second circuit board from interfering with other devices.

[0039] The second circuit board can generate corresponding control signals based on the touch signals detected by the touch sensor, so that the buttons can perform corresponding functions according to the touch operation.

[0040] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the first spring includes a first substrate and a first circuit board stacked along the pressing direction. A first pressure-sensitive device and a second pressure-sensitive device are respectively disposed on the surface of the first circuit board facing away from the first substrate and are electrically connected to the first circuit board. The button also includes a third circuit board, with its two ends respectively connected to the first circuit board and the second circuit board. The third circuit board is located on the side of the first and second springs facing a second direction, which is perpendicular to both the first and pressing directions.

[0041] Signals can be transmitted between the first and second circuit boards via a third circuit board to meet the signal transmission requirements of the buttons. Furthermore, the third circuit board is located on the side of the first and second springs facing the second direction, thus preventing the third circuit board from affecting the deformation of the first and second springs when the button is pressed.

[0042] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an electronic device, which includes a housing and a button, as described in the first aspect and any possible implementation of the first aspect, wherein the button is disposed on the housing.

[0043] It should be understood that the beneficial effects of the second aspect mentioned above can be referred to the description of the first aspect mentioned above, and will not be repeated here.

[0044] In one possible implementation of the second aspect described above, the housing is provided with a mounting groove, and the button is inserted into the mounting groove in the pressing direction. The electronic device includes a limiting member provided on the housing, which extends into the mounting groove and is inserted into the gap between the keycap and the first spring, to provide limiting for the button in the pressing direction. This prevents the button from coming out of the mounting groove, ensuring reliable button installation.

[0045] In one possible implementation of the second aspect described above, the electronic device further includes an elastic pad disposed between the button and the bottom wall of the mounting groove along the pressing direction. When the button is pressed, the elastic pad can be compressed, thereby providing the button with a certain elastic deformation space and cushioning effect, improving the pressing feel. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Figure 1A A perspective view of a mobile phone according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0047] Figure 1B An exploded view of a mobile phone according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0048] Figure 2A A side view of a button is shown in one embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 2B An exploded view of the buttons in one embodiment of this application is shown;

[0050] Figure 3 An exemplary structure of the connector in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0051] Figure 4A according to Figures 2A to 3 A schematic diagram of the first pressing area of ​​the pressing button in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0052] Figure 4B according to Figures 2A to 3A second schematic diagram of the first pressing area of ​​the pressing button in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0053] Figure 5A according to Figures 2A to 3 A schematic diagram of the second pressing area of ​​the pressing button in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0054] Figure 5B according to Figures 2A to 3 A second schematic diagram of the second pressing area of ​​the pressing button in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0055] Figure 6A An exemplary structure of a button supporting touch operation is shown in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 6B An exemplary structure two of the buttons supporting touch operation in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0057] Figure 7A A perspective view of a portion of the structure of a mobile phone in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0058] Figure 7B An exploded view of a portion of the structure of a mobile phone in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0059] Figure 7C A schematic diagram of the interaction between the buttons and the limiting component of a mobile phone in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0060] Figure 7D This application illustrates a mobile phone in an embodiment of the mobile phone. Figure 7A A sectional view of section DD in the middle;

[0061] Figure 8A A side view of the button is shown in another embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 8B An exploded view of the button in another embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 9 Another exemplary structure of the connector in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0064] Figure 10A according to Figures 8A to 9 A schematic diagram of the first pressing area of ​​the pressing button in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0065] Figure 10B according to Figures 8A to 9 A second schematic diagram of the first pressing area of ​​the pressing button in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0066] Figure 11A according to Figures 8A to 9 A schematic diagram of the second pressing area of ​​the pressing button in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0067] Figure 11B according to Figures 8A to 9 A second schematic diagram of the second pressing area of ​​the pressing button in an embodiment of this application is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0068] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0069] This application provides a button that can be applied to an electronic device, allowing control of the device by operating the button. It is understood that the electronic device provided in this application may include, but is not limited to, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, gamepads, and wearable devices (e.g., watches or bracelets). For ease of description, a mobile phone will be used as an example of an electronic device below.

[0070] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This paper shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a mobile phone 1 according to an embodiment of the present application, wherein, Figure 1A This is a 3D image of phone 1. Figure 1B This is an exploded view of phone 1. (Reference) Figure 1A and Figure 1B The mobile phone 1 includes a housing 11 and a display screen 12. The housing 11 may include a mid-frame 11a and a back cover 11b. In this embodiment, the housing 11 can be a one-piece molded structure, that is, the mid-frame 11a and the back cover 11b are integrally molded. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the mid-frame 11a and the back cover 11b can be molded separately, and then assembled to obtain the housing 11. This application does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0071] The back cover 11b and the display screen 12 are respectively mounted on opposite sides of the mid-frame 11a, thus forming a receiving cavity (not shown). The receiving cavity is used to house the electronic components of the mobile phone 1, such as the motherboard 13, physical buttons (e.g., power button 14, volume control button 15, etc.). The power button 14 and the volume control button 15 are electrically connected to the motherboard 13, and the motherboard 13, the power button 14, and the volume control button 15 are all located within the receiving cavity.

[0072] The motherboard 13 may integrate components such as a processor, memory, and communication module. The memory and communication module are electrically connected to the processor. The memory stores instructions and data, while the communication module enables 3G / 4G / 5G wireless communication for the mobile phone 1, as well as wireless local area networks (WLAN), Bluetooth (BT), and near field communication (NFC) technologies. It is understood that the components on the motherboard 13 are not limited to those described above; other electronic components that enable the performance of the mobile phone 1 may also be included, which will not be listed here.

[0073] The power button 14 is used to turn the phone 1 on, off, and restart. Specifically, a mounting slot 16 is provided in the middle frame 11a at a position corresponding to the power button 14. The power button 14 is installed in the mounting slot 16 and exposed to the outside through the opening of the mounting slot 16 to facilitate operation of the power button 14. The power button 14 can generate a control signal according to the operation and send the control signal to the motherboard 13, so that the motherboard 13 can turn the phone 1 on, off, or restart according to the control signal sent by the power button 14.

[0074] The volume control button 15 is used to control the volume of audio played on the mobile phone 1. The installation method and control process of the volume control button 15 can be referred to the above description of the installation method and control process of the power button 14, and will not be repeated here.

[0075] In some technical solutions, in addition to physical buttons such as the power button and volume control buttons, the phone's display screen can also show various virtual buttons to achieve more functions.

[0076] For example, in shooting mode, the phone's screen can display virtual buttons such as a shutter button and a focus button. Tapping the shutter button controls the phone's camera to take a picture, and tapping the focus button controls the camera to focus.

[0077] However, users need to bring up the corresponding interface to operate the virtual buttons. For example, users need to bring up the shooting preview interface before they can operate the shooting button. In addition, multiple virtual buttons occupy a large part of the display screen, resulting in a reduction in the actual usable display area. This makes the content displayed on the screen appear crowded, which is not conducive to large-screen display. Furthermore, virtual buttons lack physical tactile feedback, making them prone to accidental touches, which may lead to unexpected app exits or trigger other operations, affecting the user experience.

[0078] Continue reading Figure 1A and Figure 1BTo address this, this application provides a button 10 that allows different operations to be performed on the mobile phone 1 to control different functions. For example, lightly pressing the button 10 controls the camera of the mobile phone 1 to focus, while pressing the button 10 firmly controls the camera of the mobile phone 1 to take a picture. Light and firm pressure are relative operations; a light press requires less force than a firm press. For instance, a light press refers to applying enough force to the button 10 to cause a slight deformation, or the user touching the button 10 but not applying any pressure (in which case the button 10 may not deform). A firm press, on the other hand, refers to applying enough force to the button 10 to cause a more pronounced deformation than a light press.

[0079] In this way, the functions of the virtual buttons (such as the aforementioned camera button and focus button) can be implemented by button 10. This allows users to access the functions of the virtual buttons without needing to explicitly call up the virtual buttons. Furthermore, the display screen 12 of the phone 1 does not need to display multiple virtual buttons, saving space that would otherwise be used for their placement and facilitating a larger screen display. Simultaneously, button 10 is a physical button with a tactile feel, allowing users to accurately identify its location through touch and sight, effectively reducing the risk of accidental touches and providing a superior user experience.

[0080] It should be noted that in this embodiment, button 10 is exposed to the outside from the right side of the phone 1 through the opening of the mounting groove 17, and button 10 is the right-side button of the phone 1. However, this application is not limited to this. For example, in some other embodiments, button 10 may also be exposed to the outside from the top of the phone 1, and button 10 is the top button of the phone 1. Furthermore, in some other embodiments, button 10 may also be exposed to the outside from the back of the phone 1, serving as the rear button of the phone 1. In addition, this application does not impose a specific limitation on the number of buttons 10; the number of buttons 10 can be one or more (e.g., two, three, or four, etc.) to achieve more functions.

[0081] The following description uses the button 10 located on the right side near the mobile phone 1 as an example to illustrate the technical solution of this application.

[0082] Figure 2A and Figure 2B A schematic diagram of the structure of button 10 in one embodiment of this application is shown, wherein, Figure 2A This is a side view of button 10. Figure 2B This is an exploded view of button 10. (Reference) Figure 2A and Figure 2B The key 10 includes a keycap 100, a first spring 200, a connector 300, a first pressure-sensitive device 400, and a second pressure-sensitive device 500.

[0083] Among them, keycap 100 is the external component of button 10, that is, when button 10 is installed on a mobile phone (for example, the one mentioned above) Figure 1A and Figure 1B After entering the mobile phone 1) in the illustrated embodiment, the user can directly touch and observe the keycap 100. Thus, different operations on the button 10 can be performed using the keycap 100. For example, when it is necessary to press the button 10, simply press the keycap 100.

[0084] The keycap 100 includes a first pressing area 110 (e.g., a portion filled with a diamond pattern) and a second pressing area 120 (e.g., a portion filled with a square pattern). The first pressing area 110 and the second pressing area 120 are arranged along the Y1 direction (as an example of a first direction). The Y1 direction is perpendicular to the pressing direction of the key 10 (e.g., ...). Figure 2A and Figure 2B (as shown in the X1 direction).

[0085] The first spring 200 is located on the side of the keycap 100 facing the X1 direction. That is, the keycap 100 and the first spring 200 are arranged sequentially along the X1 direction. The first spring 200 includes a first region 210 (e.g., a portion filled with diagonal lines) and a second region 220 (e.g., a portion filled with dots). The first region 210 and the second region 220 are arranged along the Y1 direction. Both the first region 210 and the second region 220 can undergo elastic deformation, that is, the first region 210 and the second region 220 can deform when subjected to external force, and when the external force is removed, the first region 210 and the second region 220 can return to their original shape.

[0086] A connector 300 is disposed between the keycap 100 and the first spring 200. The connector 300 is used to connect the first pressing area 110 of the keycap 100 and the first region 210 of the first spring 200 with a first connecting stiffness. Thus, the pressing force applied to the first pressing area 110 can be transmitted to the first region 210 through the connector 300, thereby causing the first region 210 to deform. The connector 300 is also used to connect the second pressing area 120 of the keycap 100 and the second region 220 of the first spring 200 with a second connecting stiffness. Thus, the pressing force applied to the second pressing area 120 can be transmitted to the second region 220 through the connector 300, thereby causing the second region 220 to deform.

[0087] Connection stiffness refers to the ease with which the connector 300 deforms under external force. Higher connection stiffness means the connector 300 is less prone to deformation under external force, facilitating the transmission of external force within it. In other words, the connector 300 absorbs less external force. Conversely, lower connection stiffness means the connector 300 deforms more easily under external force, hindering the transmission of external force within it. In other words, the connector 300 absorbs more external force (e.g., converting the external force into elastic deformation of the connector 300).

[0088] The first connection stiffness is different from the second connection stiffness. For example, in the embodiments of this application, the first connection stiffness may be greater than the second connection stiffness.

[0089] Thus, when pressing force is applied to the first pressing area 110, the connector 300 is less prone to deformation. Therefore, the pressing force applied to the first pressing area 110 experiences minimal loss during transmission through the connector 300 to the first region 210. Consequently, even a small pressing force can be effectively transmitted from the first pressing area 110 to the first region 210 through the connector 300, thereby causing deformation of the first region 210.

[0090] When pressing force is applied to the second pressing area 120, the connector 300 is prone to deformation. Therefore, the pressing force applied to the second pressing area 120 experiences significant loss during transmission through the connector 300 to the second region 220; for example, a portion of the pressing force is used to cause deformation of the connector 300. Thus, a larger pressing force is needed to overcome this loss during transmission, allowing the pressing force to be effectively transmitted through the connector 300 from the second pressing area 120 to the second region 220, thereby causing deformation of the second pressing area 220.

[0091] Therefore, the pressure applied to the second pressing area 120 needs to be greater than the pressure applied to the first pressing area 110, so that the first pressing area 110 can be used to support light pressure and the second pressing area 120 can be used to support heavy pressure.

[0092] The first pressure-sensitive device 400 is disposed on the surface of the first region 210 facing the X1 direction, and the second pressure-sensitive device 500 is disposed on the surface of the second region 220 facing the X1 direction. Alternatively, it can be understood that the first pressure-sensitive device 400 and the second pressure-sensitive device 500 are disposed in different regions of the same surface of the same first spring 200 facing the X1 direction.

[0093] The first pressure-sensitive device 400 is used to sense the deformation of the first region 210, and the second pressure-sensitive device 500 is used to sense the deformation of the second region 220, so as to realize the response of the button 10 to light pressure and heavy pressure.

[0094] For example, refer to Figures 1A to 2B When a light pressure is applied to the first pressing area 110, the pressure applied to the first pressing area 110 can be transmitted to the first region 210 through the connector 300, causing the first region 210 to deform. The first pressure-sensitive device 400 then senses this deformation. The button 10 can generate a first control signal based on the deformation of the first region 210 sensed by the first pressure-sensitive device 400, and send the first control signal to the motherboard 13 of the mobile phone 1. The motherboard 13 can then control the mobile phone 1 to perform a first function based on the first control signal, such as controlling the camera of the mobile phone 1 to focus.

[0095] When the second pressing area 120 is pressed down, the pressure applied to the second pressing area 120 can be transmitted to the second region 210 through the connector 300, causing the second region 210 to deform. The second pressure-sensitive device 500 then senses this deformation. The button 10 can generate a second control signal based on the deformation of the second region 220 sensed by the second pressure-sensitive device 500, and send the second control signal to the motherboard 13 of the mobile phone 1. The motherboard 13 can then control the mobile phone 1 to perform a second function based on the first control signal, such as controlling the camera of the mobile phone 1 to take a picture.

[0096] In summary, compared to current solutions that use multiple virtual buttons (e.g., the aforementioned camera button and focus button) displayed on a mobile phone screen to achieve different functions, the button 10 provided in this application connects different parts of the keycap 100 and the first spring 200 with different connection stiffnesses, and sets pressure-sensitive devices on different parts of the first spring 200 accordingly. This allows for responses to light and heavy pressure, thereby achieving the corresponding functions. Therefore, the functions of the virtual buttons (e.g., the aforementioned camera button and focus button) can be implemented by the button 10, and users can achieve the corresponding functions without having to bring up the virtual buttons. In addition, the display screen 11 of the mobile phone 1 no longer needs to display multiple virtual buttons, saving space in the display screen 12 of the mobile phone 1 used for arranging virtual buttons, which helps to achieve a large-screen display. At the same time, the button 10 is a physical button with a physical tactile feel, and users can accurately identify the position of the button 10 through touch and vision, effectively reducing the risk of accidental touch and providing a better operating experience. The overall structure of the button 10 is relatively simple and low in cost.

[0097] The exemplary structure and layout of each component in button 10 are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0098] Continue reading Figure 2A and Figure 2BIn some embodiments of this application, the projection area of ​​the first pressing area 110 of the keycap 100 onto the first spring 200 along the X1 direction at least partially overlaps with the first region 210. That is, the first pressing area 110 and the first region 210 are not staggered in the X1 direction. Therefore, when the first pressing area 110 is pressed along the X1 direction, the pressing force can be better transmitted from the first pressing area 110 to the first region 210 through the connector 300.

[0099] In some embodiments of this application, the projection area of ​​the second pressing area 120 of the keycap 100 onto the first spring 200 along the X1 direction at least partially overlaps with the second region 220. That is, the second pressing area 120 and the second region 220 are not staggered in the X1 direction. Therefore, when the second pressing area 120 is pressed along the X1 direction, the pressing force can be better transmitted from the second pressing area 120 to the second region 220 through the connector 300.

[0100] In some embodiments of this application, the keycap 100 can be bonded to the connector 300 using adhesive 101 to ensure the stability of the overall structure of the key 10 and prevent the keycap 100 from detaching from the connector 300, but this application is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the keycap 100 can also be fixedly connected to the connector 300 in other ways, such as snap-fitting, welding, or fastener connection.

[0101] Continue reading Figure 2A and Figure 2B In some embodiments of this application, the first spring 200 may also be fixedly connected to the connector 300 by means of bonding, snap-fitting, welding or fastener connection, and this application does not limit this.

[0102] In some embodiments of this application, the first spring 200 may include a first substrate 201 and a first circuit board 202. The first substrate 201 and the first circuit board 202 are stacked sequentially along the X1 direction, or in other words, the first circuit board 202 is disposed on the surface of the first substrate 201 facing the X1 direction.

[0103] The first substrate 201 serves as a support member, used to support the first circuit board 202. In some embodiments, the first substrate 201 can be a metal sheet (e.g., a steel sheet). Furthermore, the first substrate 201 can also serve as a signal shield, preventing the signals from the first circuit board 202 from interfering with other devices (e.g., the second circuit board 312 described later).

[0104] The first circuit board 202 is used to generate corresponding control signals based on the deformation sensed by the first pressure-sensitive device 400 and the second pressure-sensitive device 500. Specifically, the first pressure-sensitive device 400 and the second pressure-sensitive device 500 are respectively disposed on the surface of the first circuit board 202 facing away from the first substrate 201 and are electrically connected to the first circuit board 202. Thus, the first circuit board 202 can generate a first control signal in response to the deformation of the first region 210 sensed by the first pressure-sensitive device 400, and generate a second control signal in response to the deformation of the second region 220 sensed by the second pressure-sensitive device 500. The first control signal is used to control the mobile phone where the button 10 is located (e.g., the one described above). Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrated embodiment, the mobile phone 1) performs a first function, such as controlling the phone's camera to focus; the second control signal is used to control the mobile phone where button 10 is located (e.g., the one described above). Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrated embodiment, the mobile phone 1) performs a second function, such as controlling the phone's camera to take pictures.

[0105] In some of these implementations, the first circuit board 202 can be a flexible printed circuit (FPC).

[0106] It is understandable that the above Figure 2A and Figure 2B The structure of the first spring contact 200 is only schematically illustrated and does not constitute a limitation of this application. For example, in some other embodiments, the first spring contact 200 may also include a first substrate 201, but not the first circuit board 202. To achieve the transmission of control signals, the surface of the first substrate 201 facing the X1 direction is provided with other circuit boards, and the first pressure-sensitive device 400 and the second pressure-sensitive device 500 may be disposed between the first substrate 201 and the circuit board, and electrically connected to the circuit board. In other embodiments, the first spring contact 200 may also include a first circuit board 202, but not the first substrate 201, wherein the first circuit board 202 is an elastically deformable structure.

[0107] Continue reading Figure 2A and Figure 2B In some embodiments of this application, the connector 300 may include a second spring 310 and at least one (e.g., one, two, three, or four) support block 320. The second spring 310 and the first spring 200 are spaced apart along the Z1 direction, and the support block 320 is supported between the first spring 200 and the second spring 310 along the Z1 direction.

[0108] Along the Y1 direction, there is a first distance between the first pressing area 110 and the support block 320, a second distance between the second pressing area 120 and the support block 320, a third distance between the first region 210 and the support block 320, and a fourth distance between the second region 220 and the support block 320. The first distance is smaller than the second distance, and the third distance is smaller than the fourth distance. That is, along the Y1 direction, the first pressing area 110 is closer to the support block 320 than the second pressing area 120, and the first region 210 is closer to the support block 320 than the second region 220.

[0109] Due to the supporting effect of the support block 320, along the Y1 direction, the portion of the connector 300 closer to the support block 320 has greater connection stiffness, and the connector 300 is less prone to deformation under external force; conversely, the portion of the connector 300 further away from the support block 320 has lower connection stiffness, and the connector 300 is more prone to deformation under external force. Therefore, by setting the first pressing area 110 and the first region 210 close to the support block 320, and setting the second pressing area 120 and the second region 220 further away from the support block, such that the first distance is less than the second distance and the third distance is less than the fourth distance, it can be ensured that the first connection stiffness between the first pressing area 110 and the first region 210 is greater than the second connection stiffness between the second pressing area 120 and the second region 220, thereby enabling the first pressing area 110 to support light pressure and the second pressing area 120 to support heavy pressure.

[0110] It is understandable that the layout of the first pressing area 110, the second pressing area 120, the first region 210, and the second region 220 will differ depending on the number of support blocks 320 of the connector 300. For ease of description, the following will use one support block 320 as an example.

[0111] Figure 3 An exemplary structure of the connector 300 in an embodiment of this application is shown, which also shows a keycap 100 and a first spring 200, with dashed arrows indicating the assembly direction of the keycap 100 and the first spring 200. For ease of description, the structure of the keycap 100, the first spring 200, and the second spring 310 will be described below first.

[0112] refer to Figure 3 and combined Figure 2A and Figure 2B The keycap 100 includes a first end region A1, a second end region A2, and a middle region A3. The first end region A1 is the end region of the keycap 100 facing the Y1 direction, the second end region A2 is the end region of the keycap 100 facing away from the Y1 direction, and the middle region A3 is located between the first end region A1 and the second end region A2 along the Y1 direction.

[0113] The first spring contact 200 includes a first end region B1, a second end region B1, and a middle region B3. The orientation of the first end region B1, the second end region B1, and the middle region B3 of the first spring contact 200 is substantially the same as the orientation of the first end region A1, the second end region A1, and the middle region A3 of the keycap 100. Specifically, the first end region B1 is the end region of the first spring contact 200 facing the Y1 direction, the second end region B2 is the end region of the first spring contact 200 facing away from the Y1 direction, and the middle region B3 is located between the first end region B1 and the second end region B2 along the Y1 direction.

[0114] The second spring 310 includes a first end region C1, a second end region C2, and a middle region C3. The orientation of the first end region C1, the second end region C2, and the middle region C3 of the second spring 310 is substantially the same as the orientation of the first end region A1, the second end region A1, and the middle region A3 of the keycap 100 described above. Therefore, the relevant description of the keycap 100 can be referred to above, and will not be repeated here.

[0115] In summary, the first end region A1 of the keycap 100, the first end region B1 of the first spring 200, and the first end region C1 of the second spring 310 are correspondingly arranged along the X1 direction; the second end region A2 of the keycap 100, the second end region B2 of the first spring 200, and the second end region C2 of the second spring 310 are correspondingly arranged along the X1 direction; and the middle region A3 of the keycap 100, the middle region B3 of the first spring 200, and the middle region C3 of the second spring 310 are correspondingly arranged along the X1 direction.

[0116] The support block 320 is supported between the middle region B3 of the first spring 200 and the middle region C3 of the second spring 310, so that the first spring 200, the second spring 310 and the support block 320 together form an I-shaped structure.

[0117] The area of ​​the middle region B3 of the first spring piece 200 can be greater than or equal to the area of ​​the projection area of ​​the support block 320 onto the first spring piece 200 along the X1 direction. For example, the ratio between the area of ​​the middle region B3 and the area of ​​the projection area of ​​the support block 320 onto the first spring piece 200 along the X1 direction can be 1-2, such as 1, 1.1, 1.2 or 1.3.

[0118] It is understandable that the relative sizes of the middle area A3 of the keycap 100 and the support block 320, as well as the relative sizes of the middle area C3 of the second spring 310 and the support block 320, can be referred to the above description of the middle area B3 of the first spring 200, and will not be repeated here.

[0119] Based on the above Figures 2A to 3 The illustrated embodiment includes a connector 300 with a support block 320. In some embodiments of this application, the first pressing area 110 can be the middle area A3 of the keycap 100. The second pressing area 120 can be the first end area A1 of the keycap 100. The first area 210 can be the middle area B3 of the first spring 200. The second area 220 can be the first end area B1 of the first spring 200.

[0120] Accordingly, a first pressure-sensitive device 400 is disposed on the surface of the middle region B3 of the first spring 200 facing the X1 direction, so as to be able to sense the deformation occurring in the first region 210. A second pressure-sensitive device 500 is disposed on the surface of the first end region B1 of the first spring 200 facing the X1 direction, so as to be able to sense the deformation occurring in the second region 220.

[0121] It is understood that this application does not limit the number of the first pressure-sensitive device 400 and the second pressure-sensitive device 500, as long as the first pressure-sensitive device 400 can sense the deformation of the first area 210 when the first pressing area 110 is lightly pressed, and the second pressure-sensitive device 500 can sense the deformation of the second area 220 when the second pressing area 120 is heavily pressed.

[0122] For example Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, there are two first pressure-sensitive devices 400, which are arranged at intervals along the Y1 direction on opposite sides of the support block 320. Alternatively, the number of first pressure-sensitive devices 400 can be different. For example, there can be one first pressure-sensitive device 400, which can be correspondingly arranged with the support block 320. Or, there can be three first pressure-sensitive devices 400, where one first pressure-sensitive device 400 can be correspondingly arranged with the support block 320, and the other two first pressure-sensitive devices 400 can be arranged along the Y1 direction on opposite sides of the support block 320.

[0123] For example Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the number of second pressure-sensitive devices 500 is one. Alternatively, the number of second pressure-sensitive devices 400 can also be multiple (e.g., two, three, or four, etc.), and the multiple second pressure-sensitive devices 400 can be arranged in the Y1 direction.

[0124] In some embodiments of this application, the first pressure-sensitive device 400 may be a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor can sense the deformation occurring in the first region 110, thereby detecting the pressing force applied to the first press 110, and the first circuit board 202 can generate a first control signal based on the pressing force detected by the first pressure sensor 400.

[0125] In some implementations, the pressure sensor can be an ink sensor. The pressure-sensitive element of the ink sensor can be, for example, pressure-sensitive ink. During deformation of the first region 210, the pressure-sensitive ink deforms, causing a change in its resistance. By measuring this change in resistance, the pressure can be determined, thus achieving pressure detection.

[0126] In some other implementations, the pressure sensor can also be a piezoelectric sensor. The pressure-sensitive element of a piezoelectric sensor can be, for example, a piezoelectric material (e.g., piezoelectric ceramics, piezoelectric crystals (e.g., quartz crystals, lithium gallium oxide), piezoelectric polymers (e.g., polyvinylidene fluoride)). During the deformation of the first region 210, the piezoelectric material will deform, thereby causing the piezoelectric material to generate a voltage. By measuring the magnitude of the voltage, the magnitude of the pressure can be determined, thus realizing pressure detection.

[0127] In some embodiments of this application, the second pressure-sensitive device 500 can be a push-button switch. The push-button switch can be a device that switches the on / off state of a circuit by applying mechanical pressure. The push-button switch can sense the deformation occurring in the second region 220, thereby being triggered, which in turn causes the first circuit board 202 to generate a second control signal. The push-button switch has advantages such as smooth contact, strong conductivity, and stable rebound, and can provide a good pressing feel.

[0128] For example, the push switch may include a dome (or "dom"), which is a metal spring. When the push switch senses deformation of the second region 220, the dome is subjected to pressure from the second region 220, thereby contacting other components of the phone where the button 10 is located (e.g., hereinafter). Figures 7A to 7D In the embodiment shown, the elastic pad 19 and the bottom wall 171 of the mounting groove 17 abut against each other, so that the hot plate is squeezed and deformed, thereby conducting the circuit on the first circuit board 202, so that the first circuit board 202 generates a second control signal.

[0129] In the above embodiments, the first pressure-sensitive device 400 is a pressure sensor, and the second pressure-sensitive device 500 is a push-button switch. This is merely illustrative and does not constitute a limitation of this application. For example, in some other embodiments, the first pressure-sensitive device 400 may be a push-button switch, and the second pressure-sensitive device 500 may be a pressure sensor. In other embodiments, both the first pressure-sensitive device 400 and the second pressure-sensitive device 500 may be pressure sensors. In still other embodiments, both the first pressure-sensitive device 400 and the second pressure-sensitive device 500 may be push-button switches.

[0130] Based on the above Figures 2A to 3 The layout of the components in the button 10 of the illustrated embodiment is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which will further illustrate the exemplary pressing and deformation process of the button 10.

[0131] Figure 4A and Figure 4B according to Figures 2A to 3 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the first pressing area 110 of the pressing button 10 in an embodiment of this application, wherein, Figure 4A This is a 3D view of button 10. Figure 4B for Figure 4A The image shows a magnified view of region S1 from a side view. (Reference) Figure 4A and Figure 4B When a light pressure is applied to the first pressing area 110 of the keycap 100, the middle area A3 of the keycap 100 is slightly concave along the X1 direction. The first pressing area 110 receives a pressing force F1, which is transmitted to the connector 300, causing the second spring 310 and the support block 320 of the connector 300 to be slightly compressed, i.e., the connector 300 undergoes slight deformation. Thus, the connector 300 can effectively transmit the pressing force F1 from the first pressing area 110 to the first area 210, causing the first area 210 to undergo slight bending deformation in the X1 direction, and the first pressure-sensitive device 400 can sense the deformation of the first area 210. The first circuit board 202 can generate a first control signal based on the deformation of the first area 210 sensed by the first pressure-sensitive device 400. The first control signal is used to control the mobile phone where the key 10 is located (e.g., the one described above). Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrated embodiment, the mobile phone 1) performs a first function, such as controlling the phone's camera to focus.

[0132] Figure 5A and Figure 5B according to Figures 2A to 3 A schematic diagram of the second pressing area 120 of the pressing button 10 in an embodiment of this application is shown, wherein, Figure 4A This is a 3D view of button 10. Figure 4B for Figure 4A The image shows a magnified view of region S2 from a side view. (Reference) Figure 5A and Figure 4BWhen the second pressing area 120 of the keycap 100 is pressed hard, the first end region A1 of the keycap 100 is significantly indented along the X1 direction. The second pressing area 120 receives a pressing force F2, which is transmitted to the connector (not shown). This causes the second spring 310 of the connector 300 to bend significantly in the X1 direction, thereby causing the second spring 310 to contact the second region 220. The second spring 310 then transmits the pressing force F2 from the second pressing area 120 to the second region 220, causing the second region 220 to bend in the X1 direction. The second pressure-sensitive device 500 can then sense the deformation of the second region 220. The first circuit board 202 can generate a second control signal based on the deformation of the second region 220 sensed by the second pressure-sensitive device 500. The second control signal is used to control the mobile phone where the keycap 10 is located (e.g., the one described above). Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrated embodiment, the mobile phone 1) performs a second function, such as controlling the phone's camera to take pictures.

[0133] Based on the above Figures 2A to 3 The illustrated embodiment includes a connector 300 with a support block 320. In some embodiments of this application, the keycap 100 may also include more pressing areas so that the key 10 can support pressing operations on other areas of the keycap 100.

[0134] For details, please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 2A to 3 The keycap 100 may further include a third pressing area 130 (e.g., a portion of the keycap 100 filled with small squares), the third pressing area 130 being the second end region A2 of the keycap 100. The first spring 200 may further include a third region 230 (e.g., a region of the first spring 200 filled with small dots), the third region 230 being the second end region A3 of the first spring 200. The connector 300 connects the third pressing area 130 and the third region 230 with a third connecting stiffness.

[0135] Based on this, along the Y1 direction, the third pressing area 130 is further away from the support block 320 than the first pressing area 110. Therefore, the stiffness of the third connection is less than that of the first connection, and thus, the pressing operation supported by the third pressing area 130 is a heavier pressing operation than the light pressing operation of the first pressing area 110.

[0136] For example, in some implementations, the third connection stiffness can be equal to the second connection stiffness, so that the third pressing area 130 and the second pressing area 120 support the same pressure.

[0137] For example, in some other implementations, the third connection stiffness may be greater than the second connection stiffness, so that the pressing operation supported by the third pressing area 130 is a pressing operation between the light pressing of the first pressing area 110 and the heavy pressing of the second pressing area 120.

[0138] For example, in some of these implementations, the third connection stiffness can be less than the second connection stiffness, so that the pressing operation supported by the third pressing area 130 is a pressing operation that is heavier than the pressing operation of the second pressing area 120.

[0139] The button 10 may also include a third pressure-sensitive device 600. The third pressure-sensitive device 600 is disposed on the surface of the third region 230 facing the X1 direction. That is, the third pressure-sensitive device 600 is disposed on the surface of the second end region A3 of the first spring 200 facing the X1 direction. The third pressure-sensitive device 600 is used to sense the deformation of the third region 230 so as to realize the response of the button 10 to the pressing operation of the third pressing area 130.

[0140] It is understandable that the structure and deformation of the third pressure-sensitive device 600 are similar to those described above. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The second pressure-sensitive device 500 in the illustrated embodiment is essentially the same; therefore, it can be referred to the above. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The relevant descriptions in the illustrated embodiments will not be repeated here.

[0141] Additionally, it can be understood that the deformation process of button 10 when the third pressing area 130 is similar to the above. Figure 5A and Figure 5B In the illustrated embodiment, the deformation process of button 10 when the second pressing area 120 is pressed is essentially the same; therefore, it can be referred to the above. Figure 5A and Figure 5B The relevant descriptions in the illustrated embodiments will not be repeated here.

[0142] In some embodiments of this application, button 10 can also support touch operation to control the mobile phone 1 to perform other functions. For example, sliding a touch on button 10 can control the magnification of the camera on the mobile phone 1. In this way, more functions of virtual buttons can be implemented by button 10, so that the display screen 12 of the mobile phone 1 can display fewer virtual buttons. Here, touch refers to the action of a finger or other object contacting button 10, without applying significant force to button 10, and the force of touch is less than the pressure of a light press.

[0143] Figure 6A and Figure 6B An exemplary structure of the touch-enabled button 10 in an embodiment of this application is shown, wherein, for ease of observation, Figure 6B The keycap 100 of key 10 is not shown in the diagram. (Reference) Figure 6A and Figure 6B The key 10 may include at least one touch sensor 700. The touch sensor 700 is located between the keycap 100 and the connector 300.

[0144] Taking a user's finger touching keycap 100 as an example, when the user's finger is not in contact with keycap 100, the touch sensor 700 has an initial capacitance value to ground. When the user's finger touches keycap 100, a potential difference can be formed between the user's finger and touch sensor 700, thereby introducing an additional capacitance C, making the capacitance of touch sensor 700 to ground larger. Therefore, touch sensing can be achieved based on the change in capacitance of touch sensor 700 to ground. In some embodiments, when the distance between the user's finger and keycap 100 is less than a preset value D1 (e.g., 0.5 mm), touch sensor 700 can also sense the user's touch, which can also be referred to as the user touching keycap 100. The preset value D1 can be determined according to the touch sensitivity of the user's electronic device. For example, when the touch sensitivity of the electronic device is high, the value of S1 can be larger.

[0145] Continue to refer to Figure 6A and Figure 6B In some implementations, there are multiple touch sensors 700, which are spaced apart along the Y1 direction to form a one-dimensional touch sensor array. In this way, button 10 can sense sliding touches along the Y1 direction.

[0146] In some other implementations, the multiple touch sensors 700 can also be arranged along a column direction (e.g., Figure 6B The Y1 direction shown) and the row direction (e.g., Figure 6B The sensors (as shown in the Z direction) are arranged at intervals to form a two-dimensional touch sensor array. The Z direction is perpendicular to both the X1 and Y1 directions. Thus, the touch sensor 700 can detect sliding touches in both the Y1 and Z directions.

[0147] Continue to refer to Figure 6A and Figure 6B In some embodiments of this application, the second spring 310 of the connector 300 may include a second substrate 311 and a second circuit board 312. The second circuit board 312 and the second substrate 311 are stacked along the X1 direction, or in other words, the second circuit board 312 is disposed on the surface of the second substrate 311 facing away from the X1 direction.

[0148] The second circuit board 312 generates a corresponding control signal based on changes in the capacitance of the touch sensor 700 to ground. Specifically, the touch sensor 700 is disposed on the surface of the second circuit board 312 facing away from the second substrate 311 and is electrically connected to the second circuit board 312. Thus, the second circuit board 312 can generate a third control signal in response to changes in the capacitance of the touch sensor 700 to ground. This third control signal is used to control the mobile phone where the button 10 is located (e.g., the one described above). Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrated embodiment, the mobile phone 1) performs a third function, such as controlling the mobile phone to adjust the magnification of the camera.

[0149] In addition, the other structures and deformations of the second fragment 310 are the same as those described above. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The spring 200 shown is essentially the same as that shown. For example, the structure of the second substrate 311 and the second circuit board 312 of the second spring 310 is essentially the same as that of the spring 200. Therefore, the above description can be used as a reference. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The description of the spring 200 in the illustrated embodiment will not be repeated here.

[0150] Continue to refer to Figure 6A and Figure 6B and combined Figure 2B In some embodiments of this application, the button 10 may further include a third circuit board 203. The two ends of the third circuit board 203 are respectively connected to the first circuit board 202 and the second circuit board 312, thereby enabling signal transmission between the first circuit board 202 and the second circuit board 312 to meet the signal transmission requirements of the button 10. Furthermore, the third circuit board 203 is located on the side of the first spring 200 and the second spring 310 facing the Z direction (as an example of the second direction), thus preventing the third circuit board 203 from affecting the deformation of the first spring 200 and the second spring 310 when the button 10 is pressed.

[0151] In some implementations, the first circuit board 202, the second circuit board 312, and the third circuit board 203 can be three physically independent circuit boards, and adjacent circuit boards can be connected together by means of connectors, soldering, etc.

[0152] In some other implementations, the first circuit board 202, the second circuit board 312, and the third circuit board 203 can also be integrated on the same circuit board, with the first circuit board 202, the second circuit board 312, and the third circuit board 203 being different areas of the same circuit board.

[0153] After introducing the specific structure of button 10, the following section will continue to describe in detail the exemplary installation method of button 10 with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0154] Figure 7A A perspective view of a portion of the structure of mobile phone 1 in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 7B An exploded view of a portion of the structure of mobile phone 1 in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 7C A schematic diagram showing the interaction between the button 10 and the limiting member 18 of the mobile phone 1 in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 7D This application illustrates that mobile phone 1 in an embodiment of the present application... Figure 7A A sectional view of section DD in the middle.

[0155] refer to Figures 7A to 7D The button 10 is mounted on the mid-frame 11a of the mobile phone 1. Specifically, the mid-frame 11a has a mounting groove 17, and the button 10 is inserted into the mounting groove 17 along the X1 direction. The bottom wall 171 of the mounting groove 17 is positioned opposite to the button 10 along the X1 direction, and the side wall 172 of the mounting groove 17 surrounds the button 10. The keycap 100 of the button 10 is exposed to the outside through the opening of the mounting groove 17 to facilitate operation of the button 10. The keycap 100 may protrude outward relative to the mid-frame 11a along the X1 direction, or it may be recessed inward relative to the mid-frame 11a along the X1 direction, or it may be flush with the mid-frame 11a; this application does not limit this.

[0156] The mobile phone 1 may also include a limiting member 18 disposed on the mid-frame 11a. The limiting member 18 extends into the interior of the mounting groove 17 and is inserted into the gap between the keycap 100 of the button 10 and the first spring 200 to provide limiting to the button 10 in the X1 direction.

[0157] In some embodiments of this application, the limiting member 18 may include a body 180 and two locking blocks 181 disposed on the body 180. The two locking blocks 181 are spaced apart along the Y1 direction and protrude relative to the body 180 in the Z direction. The two locking blocks 181 can be inserted along the Z direction into the gap between the keycap 100 of the key 10 and the first spring 200, thereby limiting the key 10 in the X direction.

[0158] It is understood that this application does not impose a specific limit on the number of card blocks 181. The number of card blocks 181 can be fewer (e.g., one) or more (e.g., three, four, etc.), as long as the above-mentioned limiting effect can be achieved.

[0159] In some embodiments of this application, the limiting member 18 and the keycap 100 and the first spring 200 can be fitted with a small gap. That is, there can be a small gap (e.g., a gap of less than 0.05 mm) between the mating surfaces of the limiting member 18 and the keycap 100, and there can be a small gap (e.g., a gap of less than 0.05 mm) between the mating surfaces of the limiting member 18 and the first spring 200. In this way, it can be ensured that the limiting member 18 can be smoothly inserted into the gap between the keycap 100 and the first spring 200. At the same time, it can also prevent the key 10 from floating significantly relative to the limiting member 18 in the X direction, thereby ensuring the reliability of the installation of each component.

[0160] In some embodiments of this application, a through hole 173 extending in the Z1 direction is provided on the side wall 172 of the mounting groove 17. The limiting member 18 can extend from the outside of the mounting groove 17 to the inside of the mounting groove 17 through the through hole 173 to limit the button 10 inside the mounting groove 17.

[0161] In some embodiments of this application, the mobile phone 1 may also include an elastic pad 19, which is disposed between the button 10 and the bottom wall 171 of the mounting groove 17. When the button 10 is pressed, the elastic pad 19 can be compressed, thereby providing a certain elastic deformation space and buffering effect for the button 10 and improving the pressing feel.

[0162] In some embodiments of this application, the mobile phone 1 may further include a flexible circuit board 20, through which the button 10 can be electrically connected to other devices to transmit signals. Exemplarily, one end of the flexible circuit board 20 may be electrically connected to the first circuit board 202 of the button 10, and another end of the flexible circuit board 20 may be electrically connected to the motherboard (not shown) of the mobile phone 1, thus enabling signal transmission between the button 10 and the motherboard.

[0163] Figure 8A and Figure 8B A schematic diagram of the structure of button 10' in another embodiment of this application is shown, wherein, Figure 8A This is a side view of button 10'. Figure 8B This is an exploded view of button 10'.

[0164] and Figure 2A and Figure 2B Compared to button 10 shown, Figure 8A and Figure 8B The difference of the button 10' shown is that the number of support blocks of the connector 300 is different. Based on the different number of support blocks 320 of the connector 300, the layout of the first pressing area 110, the second pressing area 120, the first area 210, the second area 220, the first pressure-sensitive device 400 and the second pressure-sensitive device 500 are also different, which will be described in detail below.

[0165] Figure 9 Another exemplary structure of the connector 300 in the embodiments of this application is shown, in which a keycap 100 and a first spring 200 are also shown, and the assembly direction of the keycap 100 and the first spring 200 is shown by a dashed arrow.

[0166] refer to Figure 9 and combined Figure 8A and Figure 8B The connector 300 has two support blocks. For easy distinction, the two support blocks are referred to as the first support block 320a and the second support block 320b, respectively.

[0167] The first support block 320a is supported along the X1 direction in the first end region B1 of the first spring piece 200 and the first end region C1 of the second spring piece 310, and the second support block 320b is supported in the second end region B2 of the first spring piece 200 and the second end region B2 of the second spring piece 310. Thus, the first spring piece 200, the second spring piece 310, the first support block 320a and the second support block 320b together form a square structure.

[0168] The area of ​​the first end region B1 of the first spring piece 200 can be greater than or equal to the area of ​​the projection region of the first support block 320a onto the first spring piece 200 along the X1 direction. For example, the ratio between the area of ​​the first end region B1 and the area of ​​the projection region of the first support block 320a onto the first spring piece 200 along the X1 direction can be 1-2, such as 1, 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3.

[0169] Similarly, the area of ​​the second end region B2 of the first spring 200 can be greater than or equal to the area of ​​the projection region of the second support block 320b onto the first spring 200 along the X1 direction. For example, the ratio between the area of ​​the second end region B2 and the area of ​​the projection region of the second support block 320b onto the first spring 200 along the X1 direction can be 1-2, such as 1, 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3.

[0170] It is understood that the relative sizes of the first end region A1 of the keycap 100 and the first support block 320a, the relative sizes of the second end region A2 of the keycap 100 and the second support block 320b, the relative sizes of the first end region C1 of the second spring 310 and the first support block 320a, and the relative sizes of the second end region C2 of the second spring 310 and the second support block 320b can be referred to the above descriptions of the first end region B1 and the second end region B2 of the first spring 200, and will not be repeated here.

[0171] Based on the above Figures 8A to 9The illustrated embodiment includes a connector 300 comprising two support blocks (e.g., a first support block 320a and a second support block 320b). In some embodiments of this application, the first pressing area 110 may be the second end region A2 of the keycap 100, and the second pressing area 120 may be the middle region A2 of the keycap 100. The first region 210 may be the second end region B2 of the first spring 200. The second region 220 may be the middle region B3 of the first spring 200.

[0172] Accordingly, a first pressure-sensitive device 400 is disposed on the surface of the second end region B2 of the first spring 200 facing the X1 direction, so as to be able to sense the deformation occurring in the first region 210. A second pressure-sensitive device 500 is disposed on the surface of the middle region B3 of the first spring 200 facing the X1 direction, so as to be able to sense the deformation occurring in the second region 220.

[0173] Based on the above Figures 8A to 9 The layout of the components in the button 10' of the illustrated embodiment is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The exemplary pressing and deformation process of the button 10' is further described below.

[0174] Figure 10A and Figure 10B according to Figures 8A to 9 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the first pressing area 110 of the pressing button 10' in an embodiment of this application, wherein, Figure 10A This is a 3D view of button 10'. Figure 10B for Figure 10A The image shows a magnified view of region S3 from a side view. (Reference) Figure 10A and Figure 10B When a light pressure is applied to the first pressing area 110 of the keycap 100, the second end region A2 of the keycap 100 slightly indents along the X1 direction. The first pressing area 110 receives a pressing force F1, which is transmitted to the connector 300, causing the second spring 310 and support block 320 of the connector 300 to be slightly compressed, i.e., the connector 300 undergoes slight deformation. Thus, the connector 300 can effectively transmit the pressing force F1 from the first pressing area 110 to the first region 210, causing the first region 210 to undergo slight bending deformation in the X1 direction, and the first pressure-sensitive device 400 can sense the deformation of the first region 210. The first circuit board 202 can generate a first control signal based on the deformation of the first region 210 sensed by the first pressure-sensitive device 400. The first control signal is used to control the mobile phone where the key 10 is located (e.g., the one described above). Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrated embodiment, the mobile phone 1) performs a first function, such as controlling the phone's camera to focus.

[0175] Figure 11A and Figure 11B according to Figures 8A to 9A schematic diagram of the second pressing area 120 of the pressing button 10' in an embodiment of this application is shown, wherein, Figure 11A This is a 3D view of button 10'. Figure 11B for Figure 11A The image shows a magnified view of region S4 from a side view. (Reference) Figure 11A and Figure 11B When the second pressing area 120 of the keycap 100 is pressed down, the middle area A3 of the keycap 100 is significantly indented along the X1 direction. The second pressing area 120 receives a pressing force F2, which is transmitted to the connector (not shown). This causes the second spring 310 of the connector to bend significantly in the X1 direction, making it contact the second area 220. The second spring 310 then transmits the pressing force F2 from the second pressing area 120 to the second area 220, causing the second area 220 to bend in the X1 direction. The second pressure-sensitive device 500 can then sense this deformation in the second area 220. The first circuit board 202 can generate a second control signal based on the deformation of the second area 220 sensed by the second pressure-sensitive device 500. This second control signal is used to control the mobile phone where the key 10 is located (e.g., the one described above). Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrated embodiment, the mobile phone 1) performs a second function, such as controlling the phone's camera to take pictures.

[0176] Based on the above Figures 8A to 9 The illustrated embodiment includes a connector 300 with two support blocks (e.g., a first support block 320a and a second support block 320b). In some embodiments of this application, the keycap 100 may also include more pressing areas so that the key 10' can support pressing operations on other areas of the keycap 100.

[0177] For details, please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 8A to 9 The keycap 100 may further include a fourth pressing area 140 (e.g., a portion of the keycap 100 filled with small diamond-shaped grids), the fourth pressing area 140 being a first end region A1 of the keycap 100. The first spring 200 may further include a fourth region 240 (e.g., a region of the first spring 200 filled with narrow diagonal lines), the third region 240 being a first end region A1 of the first spring 200. The connector 300 connects the fourth pressing area 140 and the fourth region 240 with a fourth connection stiffness.

[0178] Based on this, along the Y1 direction, the fourth pressing area 140 is closer to the second support block 320b than the second pressing area 120. Therefore, the fourth connection stiffness is greater than the second connection stiffness, and thus, the pressing operation supported by the fourth pressing area 140 is a lighter pressing operation compared to the heavy pressure of the second pressing area 120.

[0179] For example, in some implementations, the fourth connection stiffness can be equal to the first connection stiffness, so that the fourth pressing area 140 and the first pressing area 110 support the same light pressure.

[0180] For example, in some other implementations, the third connection stiffness may be less than the first connection stiffness, so that the pressing operation supported by the fourth pressing area 140 is a pressing operation between the light pressing of the first pressing area 110 and the heavy pressing of the second pressing area 120.

[0181] For example, in some of these implementations, the third connection stiffness can be greater than the second connection stiffness, so that the pressing operation supported by the fourth pressing area 140 is a lighter pressing operation compared to the light pressing operation of the first pressing area 110.

[0182] The button 10 may also include a fourth pressure-sensitive device 900. The fourth pressure-sensitive device 900 is disposed on the surface of the fourth region 240 facing the X1 direction. That is, the fourth pressure-sensitive device 900 is disposed on the surface of the first end region A1 of the first spring 200 facing the X1 direction. The fourth pressure-sensitive device 900 is used to sense the deformation of the fourth region 240 so as to realize the response of the button 10 to the pressing operation of the fourth pressing area 140.

[0183] It is understandable that the structure and layout of the fourth pressure-sensitive device 900 are similar to those described above. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The structure and layout of the first pressure-sensitive device 400 in the illustrated embodiment are essentially the same; therefore, they can be referred to the above. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The relevant descriptions in the illustrated embodiments will not be repeated here.

[0184] Additionally, it can be understood that the deformation process of button 10' when the fourth pressing area 140 is related to the above. Figures 8A to 9 In the illustrated embodiment, the deformation process of button 10' when the first pressing area 110 is pressed is essentially the same; therefore, it can be referred to the above. Figures 8A to 9 The relevant descriptions in the illustrated embodiments will not be repeated here.

[0185] Apart from the above, the other structures, functions, and variations of the aforementioned button 10' are the same as those described above. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The button 10 shown is essentially the same. For example, the structure of the first spring 200, the second spring 310 and other components of button 10', as well as the installation method of button 10', are essentially the same as those of button 10. Therefore, you can refer to the description of button 10 above, and it will not be repeated here.

[0186] It should be noted that the buttons provided in this application (e.g., buttons 10 and 10') are used to implement shooting-related functions, such as controlling the camera of the phone where the button is located to take pictures, focus, adjust the magnification, etc., but this application is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the buttons provided in this application (e.g., buttons 10 and 10') can also be used to implement other functions. For example, pressing the button firmly can control the phone where the button is located to turn on the flash or mute; sliding the button can control the phone where the button is located to implement the page-turning function in reading mode.

[0187] The specific embodiments described above illustrate the implementation of this application. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of this application from the content disclosed in this specification. Although the description of this application is presented in conjunction with some embodiments, this does not mean that the features of this application are limited to this embodiment. On the contrary, the purpose of describing the application in conjunction with embodiments is to cover other options or modifications that may be derived based on the claims of this application. This application may also be implemented without using these details. Furthermore, to avoid confusion or obscuring the focus of this application, some specific details have been omitted in the description. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other.

[0188] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "outer", "inner", "circumferential", "radial", "axial", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0189] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," "connect," and "fit" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0190] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A button, characterized in that, include: The keycap includes a first pressing area and a second pressing area arranged along a first direction, the first direction being perpendicular to the pressing direction of the key. The first spring is disposed on the side of the keycap facing the pressing direction, and the first spring includes a first region and a second region arranged along the first direction; A connector is disposed between the keycap and the first spring piece. The connector is used to connect the first pressing area and the first region with a first connecting stiffness, and to connect the second pressing area and the second region with a second connecting stiffness. A first pressure-sensitive device is disposed on the surface of the first region facing the pressing direction, and the first pressure-sensitive device is used to sense the deformation of the first region. A second pressure-sensitive device is disposed on the surface of the second region facing the pressing direction, and the second pressure-sensitive device is used to sense the deformation of the second region.

2. The button according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connector includes a second spring and at least one support block. The second spring and the first spring are disposed opposite to each other along the pressing direction, and the support block is supported between the first spring and the second spring along the pressing direction. Along the first direction, there is a first distance between the first pressing area and the support block, and a second distance between the second pressing area and the support block; and there is a third distance between the first region and the support block, and a fourth distance between the second region and the support block; Wherein, the first distance is less than the second distance, and the third distance is less than the fourth distance, so that the first connection stiffness is greater than the second connection stiffness.

3. The button according to claim 2, characterized in that, The support block is supported between the middle region of the first spring sheet along the first direction and the middle region of the second spring sheet along the first direction.

4. The button according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first pressing area is the middle area of ​​the keycap along the first direction, and the second pressing area is the end area of ​​the keycap facing the first direction; The first region is the middle region of the first spring along the first direction, and the second region is the end region of the first spring facing the first direction.

5. The button according to claim 4, characterized in that, The keycap also includes a third pressing area, which is the end region of the keycap facing away from the first direction; The first spring sheet further includes a third region, which is located at the end region of the first spring sheet facing away from the first direction; The button also includes a third pressure-sensitive device, which is disposed on the surface of the third region facing the pressing direction, and is used to sense the deformation of the third region.

6. The button according to claim 2, characterized in that, The at least one support block includes a first support block and a second support block. The first support block is supported between the end region of the first spring sheet facing the first direction and the end region of the second spring sheet facing the first direction, and the second support block is supported between the end region of the first spring sheet facing away from the first direction and the end region of the second spring sheet facing away from the first direction.

7. The button according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first pressing area is the end region of the keycap facing away from the first direction, and the second pressing area is the middle region of the keycap along the first direction; The first region is the end region of the first spring sheet facing away from the first direction, and the second pressing region is the middle region of the first spring sheet along the first direction.

8. The button according to claim 7, characterized in that, The keycap also includes a fourth pressing area, which is the end region of the keycap facing the first direction; The first spring also includes a fourth region, which is the end region of the first spring facing the first direction; The button also includes a fourth pressure-sensitive device, which is disposed on the surface of the fourth region facing the pressing direction, and is used to sense the deformation of the fourth region.

9. The button according to claim 1, characterized in that, The projection area of ​​the first pressing area on the first spring sheet along the pressing direction at least partially overlaps with the first area, and the projection area of ​​the second pressing area on the first spring sheet along the pressing direction at least partially overlaps with the second area.

10. The button according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first pressure-sensitive device is a pressure sensor, and the second pressure-sensitive device is a push switch.

11. The button according to claim 10, characterized in that, The pressure sensor is an ink sensor or a piezoelectric sensor.

12. The button according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first spring includes a first substrate and a first circuit board stacked sequentially along the pressing direction; The first pressure-sensitive device and the second pressure-sensitive device are respectively disposed on the surface of the first circuit board facing away from the first substrate, and are electrically connected to the first circuit board.

13. The button according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first circuit board is a flexible circuit board.

14. The button according to claim 1, characterized in that, The button also includes at least one touch sensor located between the connector and the keycap.

15. The button according to claim 14, characterized in that, The number of touch sensors is multiple, and the multiple touch sensors are spaced apart along the first direction.

16. The button according to claim 14, characterized in that, The connector includes a second spring and at least one support block. The second spring and the first spring are disposed opposite to each other along the pressing direction, and the support block is supported between the first spring and the second spring along the pressing direction. The second spring includes a second circuit board and a second substrate stacked sequentially along the pressing direction. The touch sensor is disposed on the surface of the second circuit board facing away from the second substrate and is electrically connected to the second circuit board.

17. The button according to claim 16, characterized in that, The first spring includes a first substrate and a first circuit board stacked along the pressing direction; The first pressure-sensitive device and the second pressure-sensitive device are respectively disposed on the surface of the first circuit board facing away from the first substrate, and are electrically connected to the first circuit board. The button also includes a third circuit board, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the first circuit board and the second circuit board. The third circuit board is located on the side of the first and second springs facing a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction and the pressing direction.

18. An electronic device, characterized in that, It includes a housing and a button as described in any one of claims 1 to 17, the button being disposed on the housing.

19. The electronic device according to claim 18, characterized in that, The housing is provided with a mounting groove, and the button is inserted into the mounting groove along the pressing direction; The electronic device includes a limiting member disposed on the housing, the limiting member extending into the mounting groove and inserted into the gap between the keycap and the first spring, to provide limiting to the key along the pressing direction.

20. The electronic device according to claim 19, characterized in that, The electronic device also includes an elastic pad, which is disposed between the button and the bottom wall of the mounting groove along the pressing direction.

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