Keyboard assembly and electronic device

Abstract

This application discloses a keyboard assembly and an electronic device, belonging to the field of electronic device technology. The keyboard assembly includes a keyboard shell and keycaps; the keyboard shell has a receiving hole, and the wall of the receiving hole has a first groove, the groove wall of the first groove having a guide slope; the keycaps are disposed in the receiving hole, and each keycap includes a main body and a guide block, the guide block being connected to the main body; wherein, when the keycaps move relative to the keyboard shell along a first direction, the guide block can move along the guide slope, so that the keycaps can move along a second direction, the second direction being parallel to the height direction of the keycaps, and the first direction being non-parallel to the height direction of the keycaps. This application is beneficial for the thinning of electronic devices.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic device technology, and in particular to a keyboard assembly and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] For electronic devices, such as laptops, the thickness of the keyboard is one of the factors affecting the thinness and lightness of electronic devices. When a laptop is closed, it is necessary to ensure that the laptop screen and keyboard do not come into contact to avoid potential damage or wear. Therefore, a method is used to design a recessed area on the C-shell of the laptop. While this design effectively solves the problem of contact between the screen and keyboard, this method increases the overall thickness of the laptop. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a keyboard assembly and an electronic device to solve the technical problem that keyboards in the related art increase the overall thickness of laptops.

[0004] The technical solution is as follows:

[0005] The first aspect of this application provides a keyboard assembly, which includes: a keyboard shell and keycaps;

[0006] The keyboard shell is provided with a receiving hole, and a first groove is provided on the wall of the receiving hole. The groove wall of the first groove has a guide slope.

[0007] The keycap is set in the receiving hole. The keycap includes a main body and a guide block, and the guide block is connected to the main body.

[0008] When the keycap moves relative to the keyboard shell in a first direction, the guide block can move along the guide ramp so that the keycap can move in a second direction. The second direction is parallel to the height direction of the keycap, while the first direction is not parallel to the height direction of the keycap.

[0009] By adopting the above technical solution, the guide slope on the keyboard shell and the guide block of the keycap are used to cooperate. When the guide block moves in the first direction, the guide block and the guide slope make contact and cooperate, so that the guide block can also move in the height direction of the keycap, thereby realizing the lifting and lowering of the keycap. Then, when the keyboard component is applied to electronic devices, it will help to reduce the thickness of the electronic devices.

[0010] In some implementations, the keyboard assembly also includes an elastic element and a first base plate;

[0011] An elastic element is disposed between the keycap and the first base plate, and the keycap is configured to move relative to the keyboard shell in a first direction together with the first base plate.

[0012] By adopting the above technical solution, an elastic element provides restoring force to the keycaps. When inputting using the keyboard assembly, pressing the keycap compresses the elastic element, and when the external force is removed, the elastic element returns the keycap to its original position. The first base plate provides support for the elastic element and allows the keycaps to move together with the first base plate. This enables unified raising and lowering of multiple keycaps when there are multiple keycaps.

[0013] In some implementations, the orthographic projection of the guide slope onto the first plane is the first projection line, the first plane is parallel to the first direction, and the first plane is parallel to the height direction of the keycap.

[0014] By adopting the above technical solution, the structure of the guide ramp is defined so that the guide block can move along the guide ramp to achieve the lifting and lowering of the keycap.

[0015] In some implementations, the guide ramp is a curved surface, and the first projection line is a curved segment;

[0016] The line connecting the two opposite endpoints of the curve segment is not parallel to the height direction of the keycap.

[0017] By adopting the above technical solution and using a curved segment, when the first base plate drives the keycap to move along the first direction, the driving force of the first base plate can be a constant value or fluctuate within a preset range, which effectively reduces the maximum pulling force required when the keycap falls, and helps to reduce damage to electronic devices.

[0018] In some implementations, the curved segment includes a first convex segment, and the distance between one end of the first convex segment and the first base plate is greater than the distance between the other end of the first convex segment and the first base plate.

[0019] By adopting the above technical solution, the form of the curved surface can be matched with the corresponding elastic element, so that the driving force of the first base plate movement can be a constant value or fluctuate within a preset range, effectively reducing the maximum pulling force required when the keycap falls, thereby helping to reduce damage to electronic devices.

[0020] In some implementations, the curve segment includes a second lower convex segment, a first upper convex segment, and a third lower convex segment, which are connected sequentially.

[0021] The two opposite endpoints of the curve segment are the endpoints of the free end of the second convex segment and the free end of the third convex segment, respectively.

[0022] The distance between the free end of the second lower convex segment and the first base plate is greater than the distance between the free end of the third lower convex segment and the first base plate.

[0023] By adopting the above technical solution, the form of the curved surface can be matched with the corresponding elastic element, so that the driving force of the first base plate movement can be a constant value or fluctuate within a preset range, effectively reducing the maximum pulling force required when the keycap falls, thereby helping to reduce damage to electronic devices.

[0024] In some implementations, when the keycap is moved, the supporting force of the elastic element on the keycap is negatively correlated with the slope of the tangent at any point on the first projection line.

[0025] By adopting the above technical solution, the form of the curved surface can be matched with the corresponding elastic element, so that the driving force of the first base plate movement can be a constant value or fluctuate within a preset range, effectively reducing the maximum pulling force required when the keycap falls, thereby helping to reduce damage to electronic devices.

[0026] In some implementations, the guide ramp is a plane, and the first projection line is a straight line segment;

[0027] The straight line segment is not parallel to the height direction of the keycap.

[0028] By adopting the above technical solution and using a flat form, the keycaps can also be raised and lowered. This will help reduce the thickness of electronic devices when the keyboard components are applied to them.

[0029] In some implementations, the elastic element is a spring; or, the elastic element is made of silicone or rubber.

[0030] By adopting the above technical solution, it is beneficial to select the appropriate elastic component for different application scenarios.

[0031] In some implementations, the keyboard assembly also includes a second base plate, which is fixedly connected to the keyboard shell, with the first base plate located between the second base plate and the elastic element.

[0032] By adopting the above technical solution, the second base plate can provide support for the first base plate to ensure the stability of the movement of the first base plate.

[0033] In some implementations, a clearance hole is provided on the second base plate; when the keycap moves in the direction of the first base plate, the guide block can extend into the clearance hole.

[0034] By adopting the above technical solution and using clearance holes, it is beneficial to reduce the keycaps to the maximum extent, which in turn facilitates the thinning of electronic devices.

[0035] In some implementations, the keycap includes multiple guide blocks; guide blocks are respectively provided on the two opposite sides of the main body.

[0036] By adopting the above technical solution, guide blocks are provided on opposite sides of the main body. In this way, when the keycap is pressed during use, the occurrence of one side of the keycap lifting up can be avoided or reduced.

[0037] In some implementations, the keycap includes two guide blocks; the guide block located on one side of the main body and the guide block located on the opposite side of the main body are spaced at a distance greater than or equal to 0 in the width direction of the main body, and the direction from one side of the main body to the opposite side of the main body is perpendicular to the width direction of the main body.

[0038] By adopting the above technical solution, the guide blocks on the opposite sides of the main body can be symmetrically set or staggeredly distributed, so that when the keycap is pressed, the occurrence of one side of the keycap lifting up can be avoided or reduced.

[0039] In some implementations, the main body has a protrusion extending along the height direction of the keycap, and the guide block is fixedly connected to the protrusion;

[0040] There is line contact between the guide block and the guide ramp.

[0041] By adopting the above technical solution, the protrusion and guide block are fixedly connected, which increases the height of the keycap's pressing surface extending out of the receiving hole, improving the user's touch experience. When the guide block moves relative to the guide ramp, the two make line contact, reducing friction and wear between them, extending their service life. Furthermore, the line contact makes the movement smoother, avoiding any jerking or uncomfortable operation.

[0042] In some implementations, the groove wall of the first groove also has a limiting surface, which is set opposite to the guide inclined surface, and the limiting surface is a plane;

[0043] The limiting surface is parallel to the height direction of the keycap, or the inclined direction of the guide slope is opposite to the inclined direction of the limiting surface. By adopting the above technical solution, the limiting surface helps to reduce the wobble of the keycap during the pressing process; while the inclined direction of the guide slope is opposite to the inclined direction of the limiting surface, which helps to reduce the occurrence of keycap jamming during the lifting and lowering process.

[0044] In some implementations, the first direction is perpendicular to the height direction of the keycap.

[0045] By adopting the above technical solution, it is easier to move the keycaps horizontally, which helps to reduce the possibility of jamming or misalignment during use.

[0046] In some implementations, the keyboard assembly also includes a height-adjustable bracket, with the keycaps and the first base plate connected to the height-adjustable bracket.

[0047] By adopting the above technical solution, the keycaps are installed on the first base plate using a lifting bracket, and the lifting bracket can ensure the stability of the keycaps during the pressing process, avoiding or reducing the occurrence of one side of the keycaps lifting up.

[0048] A second aspect of this application provides an electronic device, comprising: a first housing and a keyboard assembly as described in any of the above implementations;

[0049] When the first housing rotates relative to the keyboard housing, the keycaps can move relative to the keyboard housing along a first direction.

[0050] By adopting the above technical solution, when the keyboard assembly is applied to electronic devices, the guide ramp on the keyboard shell cooperates with the guide block of the keycap. When the guide block moves in the first direction, the guide block contacts and cooperates with the guide ramp, so that the guide block can also move along the height direction of the keycap, thereby realizing the lifting and lowering of the keycap, which is conducive to the thinning of electronic devices.

[0051] In some implementations, the electronic device also includes a push-pull assembly, and the keyboard assembly also includes an elastic element and a first base plate;

[0052] An elastic element is disposed between the keycap and the first base plate, and the keycap is configured to move along a first direction relative to the keyboard shell together with the first base plate;

[0053] The push-pull assembly includes a push-pull rod, which is fixedly connected to the first base plate. The push-pull rod is configured to move linearly in a first direction under the drive of the first housing.

[0054] By adopting the above technical solution, the linear movement of the first base plate can be easily achieved using the push-pull rod, ensuring stability during the keycap lifting process and enhancing the durability of the keyboard components.

[0055] In some implementations, the electronic device further includes a first rotating shaft and a drive shaft, with the first housing fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft, and the axis of rotation of the first housing relative to the keyboard housing being the axis of the first rotating shaft;

[0056] The drive shaft is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft. The axis of the drive shaft is parallel to the axis of the first rotating shaft, but the axis of the drive shaft and the axis of the first rotating shaft are not coaxial.

[0057] One end of the push-pull rod has a limiting groove, and the drive shaft is inserted into the limiting groove;

[0058] The limiting slide includes an arc segment and a push-pull segment. The arc segment is connected to the push-pull segment. When the drive shaft is in the push-pull segment, the drive shaft can drive the push-pull rod to make linear motion.

[0059] By adopting the above technical solution, the rotational motion is converted into the linear motion of the push-pull rod by the cooperation of the drive shaft and the push-pull section. This design increases the controllability of the motion and ensures precise control of the keycap's lifting and lowering. Attached Figure Description

[0060] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the electronic device provided in the embodiment of this application in a folded state;

[0061] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the electronic device provided in the embodiment of this application in its unfolded state;

[0062] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure when the keycaps and keyboard shell are engaged, as provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0063] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A magnified schematic diagram of the partial structure at point A in the middle;

[0064] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a partial structure of the keyboard assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device provided in this application embodiment when the second housing is not installed;

[0066] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of the structure at point B in the middle;

[0067] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the electronic device provided in this application embodiment when the D-shell is not installed;

[0068] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A magnified schematic diagram of the structure at point C in the middle;

[0069] Figure 10 This is a state diagram of the electronic device in this application when it switches from an unfolded state to a folded state.

[0070] Figure 11 This is another state diagram in the embodiments of this application when the electronic device switches from an unfolded state to a folded state;

[0071] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the keycap structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0072] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A top view of the keycaps in the image;

[0073] Figure 14This is a schematic diagram of another type of keycap provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0074] Figure 15 This is a partial structural diagram of the keyboard assembly of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0075] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 Top view;

[0076] Figure 17 It is along Figure 16 Sectional view of the DD line;

[0077] Figure 18 It is along Figure 16 Sectional view of the middle EE line;

[0078] Figure 19 It is along Figure 16 Sectional view of the middle FF line;

[0079] Figure 20 This is a partial structural diagram of the keyboard assembly in a folded state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0080] Figure 21 It is along Figure 20 A cross-sectional view of the GG line in the middle;

[0081] Figure 22 It is along Figure 20 A cross-sectional view of the middle HH line;

[0082] Figure 23 This is another partial structural diagram of the keyboard assembly of an electronic device in its unfolded state;

[0083] Figure 24 A partial structural diagram of the keyboard shell provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0084] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 A magnified schematic diagram of the local structure at point J;

[0085] Figure 26 A partial structural schematic diagram of the keyboard shell provided in an embodiment of this application, projected onto a first plane;

[0086] Figure 27 A partial structural schematic diagram of another form of keyboard shell provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0087] Figure 28 A partial structural diagram of another form of keyboard shell provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0088] Figure 29 This is a force analysis diagram of the guide block on the guide ramp;

[0089] Figure 30 These are the function graphs of the support force of the elastic element on the guide block and the function graphs of the first projection line in the embodiments of this application.

[0090] The meanings of the various symbols in the attached icons are as follows:

[0091] 100. Keyboard assembly; 101. Keycap; 102. Keyboard shell; 103. Receiving hole; 104. First groove; 105. Guide slope; 106. Main body; 107. Guide block; 108. Protrusion; 109. Elastic element; 110. First base plate; 111. Circuit board; 112. Second base plate; 113. Push-pull assembly; 114. Push-pull rod; 115. Fixing block; 116. First pivot; 117. Drive shaft; 118. Limiting groove; 119. Circular Arc segment; 120. Push-pull section; 121. First connecting piece; 122. Clearance space; 123. Clearance hole; 124. Lifting bracket; 125. First scissor foot; 126. Second scissor foot; 127. Second lower convex surface; 128. First upper convex surface; 129. Third lower convex surface; 130. Second lower convex segment; 131. First upper convex segment; 132. Third lower convex segment; 133. Limiting surface; 134. First lower convex surface; 135. First lower convex segment; 136. Second connecting piece;

[0092] 201. First housing; 202. Second housing; 203. Display screen. Detailed Implementation

[0093] 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.

[0094] It should be understood that "multiple" as mentioned in this application refers to two or more. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " indicates "or," for example, A / B can mean A or B; "and / or" in this document is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist, for example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Furthermore, to facilitate a clear description of the technical solutions of this application, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used to distinguish identical or similar items with essentially the same function and effect. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first," "second," etc., do not limit the quantity or execution order, and that "first," "second," etc., do not necessarily imply differences.

[0095] The electronic devices in this application embodiment can be referred to as user equipment (UE) or terminals, etc. For example, electronic devices can be laptops, mobile phones, portable Android devices (PADs), personal digital assistants (PDAs), wireless terminals in industrial control, self-driving, remote medical, smart grids, transportation safety, smart cities, smart homes, and other mobile or fixed terminals. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the form of the terminal device.

[0096] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the electronic device provided in this application in a folded state; see also Figure 1 As shown, the electronic device is in a folded state, also known as a closed state. The electronic device includes a first housing 201, a second housing 202, and a rotating mechanism (…). Figure 1 (Not shown in the image); the first housing 201 and the second housing 202 are connected by a rotating shaft mechanism to allow the first housing 201 to rotate relative to the second housing 202. For example, the electronic device is a laptop computer.

[0097] For ease of description in the embodiments below, an XYZ Cartesian coordinate system is established for the electronic device in a folded state (i.e., in a closed state). The length direction of the electronic device is defined to be parallel to the X-axis, the width direction to be parallel to the Y-axis, and the thickness direction to be parallel to the Z-axis. The X, Y, and Z axes are mutually perpendicular. It is understood that the coordinate system settings of the electronic device can be flexibly configured according to actual needs, and no specific limitations are made here.

[0098] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application in its unfolded state; combined with Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the electronic device also includes a keyboard assembly 100 and a display screen 203, with the display screen 203 fixed to the first housing 201. The keyboard assembly 100 serves as an input device for the electronic device. Text input or operation commands can be entered through the keyboard assembly 100, and the corresponding operations can be displayed on the display screen 203.

[0099] See Figure 2 As shown, the first housing 201 and the second housing 202 of the electronic device in the unfolded state have a certain included angle. This included angle is greater than 0 degrees and less than or equal to any angle within 360 degrees. The specific angle can be set according to actual needs. For example, the included angle can be from 1 degree to 180 degrees, such as 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 60 degrees, 90 degrees, 95 degrees, 100 degrees, 120 degrees, 180 degrees, 270 degrees, or 360 degrees. This application does not impose a specific limitation. The unfolded angle of the electronic device in the unfolded state can refer to the included angle between the display screen 203 and the upper surface of the second housing 202. When the electronic device is in the folded state, the upper surface of the second housing 202 is positioned opposite to the display screen 203. The second housing 202 may include a C-shell and a D-shell (not shown); the C-shell and the D-shell are fixedly connected.

[0100] See Figure 2 As shown, the keyboard assembly 100 includes keycaps 101 and a keyboard shell 102; the keyboard shell 102 has receiving holes 103, and the keycaps 101 are disposed in the receiving holes 103. Exemplarily, the keyboard shell 102 may have one or more receiving holes 103, arranged in an array; the number of keycaps 101 may also be one or more; each receiving hole 103 contains one keycap 101, which can be exposed to facilitate corresponding operations. The keyboard shell 102 may be a C-shell. It is understood that the keyboard shell 102 may also be a partial structure of a C-shell, or the keyboard shell 102 may be a structure independent of the C-shell.

[0101] In related technologies, the thickness of the keyboard in electronic devices, such as laptops, is one of the factors affecting the thinness and lightness of electronic devices. When a laptop is closed, it is necessary to ensure that the laptop screen 203 does not come into contact with the keyboard to avoid potential damage or wear. Several solutions have been proposed to address this, such as designing a recessed area on the laptop's C-shell. While this design effectively solves the contact problem between the screen 203 and the keyboard, it increases the overall thickness of the laptop. Another example is achieving the lifting and lowering of the keycap 101 by directly applying a horizontal pulling force to one of the scissor legs of the lifting bracket 124 under the keycap 101. However, this solution also has drawbacks. Because the angle between the scissor legs and the horizontal direction is extremely small, the efficiency of converting the horizontal pulling force into a vertical pulling force for the keycap 101 to move downwards is extremely low. Specifically, to achieve sufficient vertical displacement of the keycap 101, the required horizontal pulling force can be more than five times the vertical pulling force. This not only increases the risk of structural breakage of the scissor legs but also increases the complexity and cost of lifting and lowering the keycap 101.

[0102] Therefore, this application provides a keyboard component 100 to solve the problems in the related technology. The keyboard component 100 provided in this application will be explained in detail below.

[0103] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure when the keycap 101 and the keyboard shell 102 are engaged, as provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A magnified schematic diagram of the local structure at point A; combined with Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in this embodiment, a first groove 104 is provided on the wall of the receiving hole 103 of the keyboard shell 102, and the groove wall of the first groove 104 has a guide slope 105; the keycap 101 includes a main body 106 and a guide block 107, and the guide block 107 is connected to the main body 106; wherein, when the keycap 101 moves relative to the keyboard shell 102 in a first direction, the guide block 107 can move along the guide slope 105 so that the keycap 101 can move in a second direction, the second direction is parallel to the height direction of the keycap 101, and the first direction is not parallel to the height direction of the keycap 101. This design utilizes the cooperation between the guide ramp 105 on the keyboard housing 102 and the guide block 107 of the keycap 101. When the guide block 107 moves along the first direction, it contacts the guide ramp 105, allowing it to move along the height of the keycap 101, thus enabling the keycap 101 to rise and fall. This facilitates thinner designs when the keyboard assembly 100 is used in electronic devices. Furthermore, compared to related technologies that use scissor-switch mechanisms to raise and lower the keycap 101, this application uses a guide ramp 105 on the keyboard housing 102, with the guide block 107 being part of the keycap 101. This directly acts on the keycap 101 to achieve its raising and lowering, reducing the risk of structural breakage in the keyboard assembly 100, simplifying the raising and lowering process, and reducing costs.

[0104] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in some embodiments, the guide block 107 extends into the first groove 104; the receiving hole 103 is a through hole; the orthographic projection of the receiving hole 103 in the preset plane is a quadrilateral, such as a rectangle or a square, and the four corners of the quadrilateral have rounded corners. The preset plane is parallel to the direction and is also parallel to the Y-axis. The shape of the main body 106 matches the shape of the receiving hole 103. The first groove 104 is respectively provided on the two opposite holes of the receiving hole 103; in the two opposite holes of the receiving hole 103 where the first groove 104 is provided, the direction from one hole wall of the receiving hole 103 where the first groove 104 is provided to the other hole wall of the receiving hole 103 where the first groove 104 is provided is parallel to the X-axis, which facilitates the keycap 101 to move on the Y-axis to realize the lifting and lowering of the keycap 101; the lifting and lowering direction of the keycap 101 is parallel to the height direction of the keycap 101, and the height direction of the keycap 101 is parallel to the Z-axis. The upward and downward directions of the keycap 101 are parallel to the Z-axis. The first direction is opposite to the positive direction of the Y-axis, and the second direction is opposite to the positive direction of the Z-axis; thus, when the keycap 101 moves along the first direction, it moves along the second direction, thereby lowering the keycap 101. In this embodiment, when the electronic device switches between an unfolded state and a folded state, the keycap 101 moves relative to the keyboard shell 102, i.e., the keycap 101 is driven to move, thereby raising or lowering the keycap 101. When the keycap 101 moves in a direction opposite to the first direction, the guide block 107 can move along the guide ramp 105, thereby raising the keycap 101 in a direction opposite to the second direction. Since the guide ramp 105 is provided on the keyboard shell 102, this helps to ensure the structural strength of the keycap 101, reduces wear caused by the raising and lowering of the keycap 101 when switching between the unfolded and folded states of the electronic device, and improves the service life of the keycap 101.

[0105] It should be noted that in some other possible implementations, the keyboard shell 102 can be driven to move, so as to raise or lower the keycaps 101.

[0106] In some embodiments, the first direction is perpendicular to the height direction of the keycap 101. This helps reduce jamming or misalignment that may occur during use when driving the keycap 101 to move along the first direction. For example, when the electronic device is placed horizontally, the movement of the keycap 101 along the first direction is the horizontal movement of the keycap 101; the lifting and lowering movement of the keycap 101 can then be achieved through the guide ramp 105.

[0107] In some embodiments, the orthographic projection of the guide ramp 105 onto the first plane is a first projection line. The first plane is parallel to the first direction and parallel to the height direction of the keycap 101. The structure of the guide ramp 105 is defined to allow the guide block 107 to move along the guide ramp 105, thereby enabling the keycap 101 to rise and fall. It should be noted that the first plane is not the only plane; it can be any plane parallel to the first direction and parallel to the height direction of the keycap 101.

[0108] See Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the guide slope 105 is a plane, and the first projection line is a straight line segment; the straight line segment is not parallel to the height direction of the keycap 101. Using a planar form also allows for the lifting and lowering of the keycap 101, which facilitates the thinning of the electronic device when the keyboard assembly 100 is applied. For example, the angle formed between the straight line segment and the height direction of the keycap 101 can be an acute angle.

[0109] See Figure 4 As shown, the main body 106 has a protrusion 108 extending along the height direction of the keycap 101, and a guide block 107 is fixedly connected to the protrusion 108; the guide block 107 and the guide slope 105 are in line contact. By fixing the protrusion 108 to the guide block 107, the height of the keycap 101's pressing surface extending out of the receiving hole 103 can be increased, improving the touch effect during use. When the guide block 107 moves relative to the guide slope 105, the two are in line contact, which reduces friction and wear between the guide slope 105 and the guide block 107, extending their service life. Furthermore, the line contact makes the movement smoother, avoiding any stuttering or uncomfortable operating experience. The line contact also effectively reduces the loss of effective pulling force caused by friction, effectively improving the conversion efficiency of horizontal pulling force and vertical force on the keycap 101. The main body 106 and the guide block 107 can be formed as a single unit using a molding process, such as injection molding. For example, the guide block may have a contact surface, which may be an arc surface, so as to facilitate line contact between the contact surface and the guide slope 105, thereby achieving line contact between the guide block 107 and the guide slope 105.

[0110] It should be noted that in some other possible implementations, the guide block 107 and the guide ramp 105 may also be in point contact or surface contact.

[0111] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a partial structure of the keyboard assembly 100 provided in this embodiment of the application. See also... Figure 5As shown, in some embodiments, the keyboard assembly 100 further includes an elastic element 109 and a first base plate 110. The elastic element 109 is disposed between the keycap 101 and the first base plate 110. The keycap 101 is configured to move along a first direction relative to the keyboard housing 102 together with the first base plate 110. The elastic element 109 provides a restoring force to the keycap 101. When inputting using the keyboard assembly 100, pressing the keycap 101 compresses the elastic element 109, and when the external force is removed, the elastic element 109 returns the keycap 101 to its original position. The first base plate 110 provides support for the elastic element 109 and allows the keycap 101 to move together with the first base plate 110. When there are multiple keycaps 101, they can move together with the first base plate 110, facilitating unified raising and lowering of multiple keycaps 101. For example, the keyboard assembly 100 also includes a circuit board 111, which can be fixed to the first base plate 110, for example by adhesive bonding. The circuit board 111 is located on the side of the first base plate 110 facing the keycap 101, and an elastic member 109 is located between the keycap 101 and the circuit board 111. By pressing the keycap 101, the keycap 101 moves along the height direction of the keycap 101, thereby compressing the elastic member 109 to trigger the switching circuit on the circuit board 111. The circuit board 111 can be a flexible circuit board 111 or a rigid circuit board 111.

[0112] In some embodiments, the elastic element 109 is a spring or a sheet; or, the elastic element 109 is made of silicone or rubber. This allows for the selection of a suitable elastic element 109 for different application scenarios. For example, see [link to example]. Figure 5 As shown, the elastic element 109 is made of silicone or rubber, such as a rubber dome. The elastic element 109 can be bonded to the circuit board 111, and it abuts against the keycap 101; that is, the elastic element 109 and the keycap 101 are in contact but not fixed. It is understood that the elastic element 109 and the keycap 101 can also be bonded together.

[0113] It should be noted that in some other possible implementations, when the elastic element 109 is a spring, the two ends of the spring can respectively abut against the keycap 101 and the circuit board 111.

[0114] In some embodiments, when the guide slope 105 is a plane, the elastic element 109 can be a spring, a sheet, or a rubber dome, which also helps to reduce the thickness of the electronic device.

[0115] See Figure 5As shown, in some embodiments, the keyboard assembly 100 further includes a second base plate 112, which is fixedly connected to the keyboard shell 102. In the height direction of the keyboard assembly 100, the first base plate 110 is located between the second base plate 112 and the elastic member 109. Thus, the second base plate 112 can provide support for the first base plate 110 to ensure the stability of its movement. For example, the second base plate 112 and the keyboard shell 102 can be fixedly connected by screws or snap-fit ​​connections. When the first base plate 110 moves along a first direction and in a direction opposite to the first direction, the first base plate 110 can drive the circuit board 111 and the keycaps 101 to move together along the first direction and in a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0116] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the electronic device provided in this application embodiment when the second housing 202 is not installed; see also Figure 6 As shown, the electronic device also includes a push-pull assembly 113, which is used to drive the first base plate 110 to move along a first direction, so that the keycap 101 is lowered; the push-pull assembly 113 is also used to drive the first base plate 110 to move in the opposite direction to the first direction, so that the keycap 101 is raised. For example, when the electronic device switches from a folded state to an unfolded state, the keycap 101 moves upward, and when the electronic device switches from an unfolded state to a folded state, the keycap 101 moves downward; the number of push-pull assemblies 113 can be two, and the two push-pull assemblies 113 are disposed on one side of the two width edges of the first base plate 110. The width direction of the first base plate 110 is parallel to the width direction of the electronic device, that is, the width direction of the first base plate 110 is parallel to the Y-axis. The push-pull assembly 113 includes a push-pull rod 114 and a fixing block 115. When the push-pull rod 114 reciprocates linearly along its own length, it can drive the first base plate 110 to reciprocate along a first direction and the opposite direction, thereby realizing the lifting and lowering of the keycap 101. The fixing block 115 is fixedly connected to the second housing 202. For example, the fixing block 115 can be fixedly connected to the keyboard housing 102 by screws. A slide rail is formed between the fixing block 115 and the push-pull rod 114. The push-pull rod 114 is slidably disposed on the fixing block 115, thus realizing the linear movement of the push-pull rod 114.

[0117] Figure 7 yes Figure 6A partially enlarged structural diagram at point B; in some embodiments, the first base plate 110 is fixedly connected to the push-pull rod 114. When the first housing 201 rotates relative to the keyboard housing 102, the keycap 101 can move relative to the keyboard housing 102 along a first direction. When the first housing 201 rotates relative to the keyboard housing 102, the push-pull rod 114 can move linearly along the first direction under the drive of the first housing 201. In this way, the push-pull rod 114 can easily realize the linear movement of the first base plate 110, ensuring the stability of the keycap 101 during the lifting and lowering process, which is beneficial to ensuring the durability of the enhanced keyboard assembly 100.

[0118] See Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the pivot mechanism includes a first pivot 116 and a drive shaft 117; the first housing 201 is fixedly connected to the first pivot 116, and the axis of rotation of the first housing 201 relative to the keyboard housing 102 is the axis of the first pivot 116; the drive shaft 117 is fixedly connected to the first pivot 116, and the axis of the drive shaft 117 is parallel to the axis of the first pivot 116, but the axis of the drive shaft 117 and the axis of the first pivot 116 are not coaxial; one end of the push-pull rod 114 has a limiting groove 118, and the drive shaft 117 is inserted into the limiting groove 118; the limiting groove 118 includes an arc segment 119 and a push-pull segment 120, the arc segment 119 and the push-pull segment 120 are connected, wherein when the drive shaft 117 is located in the push-pull segment 120, the drive shaft 117 can drive the push-pull rod 114 to make linear motion. This design utilizes the cooperation between the drive shaft 117 and the push-pull section 120 to convert rotational motion into linear motion of the push-pull rod 114. This increases the controllability of the motion and ensures precise control over the raising and lowering of the keycap 101. For example, the hinge mechanism also includes a first connector 121 with a shaft hole through which a first rotating shaft 116 passes. The first rotating shaft 116 is rotatably connected to the first connector 121, facilitating the rotation of the first housing 201 relative to the first connector 121. When the first pivot 116 rotates around its own axis, the drive shaft 117 can make a circular motion around the axis of the first pivot 116 in the arc segment 119. When the drive shaft 117 moves to the push-pull segment 120, it can abut against the push-pull segment 120 to provide a pushing or pulling force parallel to the length direction of the push-pull rod 114, so as to realize the push-pull rod 114 making a reciprocating linear motion in its own length direction, thereby facilitating the lowering or raising of the keycap 101. When the push-pull rod 114 moves the first base plate 110 away from the first pivot 116, the keycap 101 can be lowered; when the push-pull rod 114 moves the first base plate 110 closer to the first pivot 116, the keycap 101 can be raised.

[0119] Figure 8This is a schematic diagram of the electronic device provided in this application embodiment when the D-shell is not installed; Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A magnified schematic diagram of the local structure at point C; combined with Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the push-pull assembly 113 further includes a second connector 136, which is fixedly connected to the push-pull rod 114 and the first base plate 110. This facilitates the linear movement of the first base plate 110 and the push-pull rod 114 together. For example, the second connector 136 is fixedly connected to the push-pull rod 114 with screws, and the second connector 136 is fixedly connected to the first base plate 110 by plug-in, screw connection, or welding. The first connector 121 can be fixedly connected to the second housing 202 with screws; for example, the first connector 121 is fixedly connected to the keyboard housing 102 with screws.

[0120] Figure 10 This is a state diagram of the electronic device in this application embodiment when it switches from an unfolded state to a folded state; in Figure 10 In Figure (a), the drive shaft 117 is located at the arc segment 119; as the first housing 201 of the electronic device rotates, the drive shaft 117 is located at the connection between the arc segment 119 and the push-pull segment 120 (see Figure 120). Figure 10 (As shown in Figure (b)). To facilitate observation of the motion state of the push-pull rod 114, Figure 10 The axis O of the first rotating shaft 116 is shown. Since the axis O of the first rotating shaft 116 does not move with the push-pull rod 114, the movement of the push-pull rod 114 can be observed through the axis O of the first rotating shaft 116.

[0121] Figure 11 This is another state diagram in the embodiments of this application when the electronic device switches from an unfolded state to a folded state. Figure 11 The state of the electronic device shown in Figure (c) is determined by... Figure 10 Figure (b) shows the state of the electronic device after the first housing 201 continues to move towards the folded state; Figure 11 In Figure (c), drive shaft 117 is located in push-pull section 120, and drive shaft 117 applies a thrust in the first direction to push rod; as the first housing 201 of the electronic device continues to rotate, when the electronic device is in a folded state, drive shaft 117 remains in push-pull section 120 (see Figure 120). Figure 11 (as shown in Figure (d)).

[0122] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the keycap 101 provided in this embodiment of the application; Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A top view of keycap 101 in the image, combined with... Figure 13 and Figure 13 As shown, in some embodiments, the keycap 101 includes multiple guide blocks 107; guide blocks 107 are respectively provided on opposite sides of the main body 106. By providing guide blocks 107 on opposite sides of the main body 106, the occurrence of one side of the keycap 101 lifting up can be avoided or reduced when the keycap 101 is pressed during use. In addition, when the electronic device switches between an unfolded state and a folded state, the keycap 101 can be raised and lowered smoothly during the lifting and lowering process, and the keycap 101 can also trigger the switching circuit on the circuit board 111.

[0123] For example, see Figure 13 As shown, the keycap 101 includes two guide blocks 107. The guide block 107 located on one side of the main body 106 and the guide block 107 located on the opposite side of the main body 106 have a spacing greater than 0 in the width direction of the main body 106. The direction from one side of the main body 106 to the opposite side of the main body 106 is perpendicular to the width direction of the main body 106. This achieves a staggered distribution between the two guide blocks 107 on the opposite sides of the main body 106, which can avoid or reduce the occurrence of one side of the keycap 101 lifting up when the keycap 101 is pressed. The width direction of the main body 106 is parallel to the Y-axis, the length direction of the main body 106 is parallel to the X-axis, and the height direction of the main body 106 is parallel to the Z-axis. For example, the spacing between the guide block 107 located on one side of the main body 106 and the guide block 107 located on the opposite side of the main body 106 in the width direction of the main body 106 can be 1 / 4, 1 / 3 or 1 / 2 of the width of the main body 106.

[0124] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of another form of keycap 101 provided in the embodiments of this application; see also Figure 14 As shown, in some embodiments, the keycap 101 includes two guide blocks 107; the guide block 107 located on one side of the main body 106 and the guide block 107 located on the opposite side of the main body 106 have a spacing of 0 in the width direction of the main body 106, and the direction from one side of the main body 106 to the opposite side of the main body 106 is perpendicular to the width direction of the main body 106. This achieves a symmetrical distribution of the two guide blocks 107 on the opposite sides of the main body 106, which can avoid or reduce the occurrence of one side of the keycap 101 lifting up when the keycap 101 is pressed; wherein, the width direction of the main body 106 is parallel to the Y-axis.

[0125] Figure 15 This is a partial structural diagram of the keyboard assembly 100 of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 16yes Figure 15 Top view; Figure 17 It is along Figure 16 A sectional view of the DD line in the middle; Figure 15 In the middle, keycap 101 is in a raised position relative to the keyboard shell 102, with keycap 101 at its highest point. Combined with... Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the guide slope 105 is a curved surface, and the first projection line is a curved segment; the line connecting the two opposite endpoints of the curved segment is not parallel to the height direction of the keycap 101. By adopting the form of a curved segment, when the first base plate 110 drives the keycap 101 to move along the first direction, the driving force of the first base plate 110 can be a constant value or fluctuate within a preset range, effectively reducing the maximum pulling force required when the keycap 101 descends, which helps to reduce damage to electronic devices. For example, the line connecting the two opposite endpoints of the curved segment is not perpendicular to the height direction of the keycap 101, such as the angle formed between the line connecting the two opposite endpoints of the curved segment and the height direction of the keycap 101 being an acute angle. In addition, when the guide slope 105 is curved, the specific shape of the curved surface is designed so that the form of the curved surface can be matched with the corresponding elastic element 109 (such as a spring or rubber dome), so that the driving force of the first base plate 110 can be constant or fluctuate within a preset range, effectively reducing the maximum pulling force required when the keycap 101 falls, thereby helping to reduce damage to electronic devices. The additional torque load on the first shaft 116 of the shaft mechanism is also smaller, ensuring the structural stability of the first shaft 116.

[0126] Combination Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, in some embodiments, clearance spaces 122 are respectively provided on the first base plate 110 and the circuit board 111. When the guide block 107 moves along the guide ramp 105, the descent height of the keycap 101 can be increased. The clearance space 122 can be in the form of a through hole or a notch. The clearance space 122 on the first base plate 110 and the clearance space 122 on the circuit board 111 are directly opposite each other in the height direction of the keycap 101.

[0127] Combination Figure 16 and Figure 17As shown, in some embodiments, a clearance hole 123 is provided on the second base plate 112; when the keycap 101 moves in the direction of the first base plate 110, the guide block 107 can extend into the clearance hole 123. By using the clearance hole 123, it is beneficial to allow the keycap 101 to descend to its maximum extent, thereby facilitating the thinning of the electronic device. For example, the clearance hole 123 is a through hole; since the first base plate 110 will move relative to the second base plate 112, the length of the clearance hole 123 in the width direction of the electronic device needs to be greater than the length of the clearance space 122 in the width direction of the electronic device.

[0128] Figure 18 It is along Figure 16 See the sectional view of the EE line. Figure 18 As shown, in some embodiments, the keyboard assembly 100 further includes a lifting bracket 124, with the keycap 101 and the first base plate 110 respectively connected to the lifting bracket 124. The lifting bracket 124 is used to mount the keycap 101 onto the first base plate 110, and it ensures the stability of the keycap 101 during pressing, preventing or reducing the occurrence of one side of the keycap 101 lifting up. For example, the number of keycaps 101 is equal to the number of lifting brackets 124, with each keycap 101 corresponding to one lifting bracket 124; the lifting bracket 124 is located below the keycap 101; the lifting bracket 124 can be a scissor-switch bracket. The keycap 101 is connected to the first base plate 110 via the scissor-switch bracket. The scissor-switch bracket provides good support for the keycap 101, ensuring balanced force on the keycap 101, allowing the user to press down the keycap 101 with a fixed force at any height. The scissor-switch support may include a first scissor-switch leg 125 and a second scissor-switch leg 126, which are intersected and rotatably connected. The lower ends of both the first scissor-switch leg 125 and the second scissor-switch leg 126 are rotatably connected to the first base plate 110, and the upper ends of both are rotatably connected to the keycap 101. In this embodiment, because the lifting support 124 adopts a scissor structure, the keyboard assembly 100 can be referred to as a keyboard with a scissor-switch structure. It should be noted that... Figure 18 Elastic element 109 is not shown in the diagram.

[0129] It is understood that in some other possible implementations, the keyboard assembly 100 may also adopt other forms of lifting bracket 124, such that the keyboard assembly 100 may be a crater-structure keyboard or a pillar-structure keyboard, and this application does not specifically limit the specific implementation.

[0130] Figure 19 It is along Figure 16 See the sectional view of the middle FF line. Figure 19As shown, two guide blocks 107 are symmetrically arranged on opposite sides of the main body 106; when the guide blocks 107 cooperate with the keyboard shell 102, the keycaps 101 can be prevented from coming out of the receiving hole 103 during normal use.

[0131] Figure 20 This is a partial structural diagram of the keyboard assembly 100 in a folded state according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 21 It is along Figure 20 A cross-sectional view of the GG line in the middle; Figure 20 In the middle, keycap 101 is in a lowered state relative to keyboard shell 102, with keycap 101 at its lowest position. Combined with... Figure 20 and Figure 21 As shown, the keycap 101, the first base plate 110, and the circuit board 111 all move a certain distance relative to the keyboard housing 102 along a first direction. In the folded state, the guide block 107 of the keycap 101 in the keyboard assembly 100 passes through the clearance space 122 and enters the clearance hole 123 of the second base plate 112. This allows the keycap 101 to be lowered by a significant amount of height, which is beneficial for the thinning of electronic devices.

[0132] Figure 22 It is along Figure 20 See the cross-sectional view of the middle HH line. Figure 22 As shown, when the keyboard assembly 100 is in a folded state, the top surface of the keycap 101 can be flush with the top surface of the keyboard shell 102, so that the keycap 101 does not come into contact with the display screen 203.

[0133] Figure 23 This is another partial structural diagram of the keyboard assembly 100 of the electronic device in its unfolded state. Figure 23 Keycap 101 is not shown in the image; see also Figure 23 As shown, in some embodiments, both the first scissor leg 125 and the second scissor leg 126 can be a rectangular structure, and both can be made of plastic. The clearance space 122 is in the form of a notch, which is formed at the edge of the first base plate 110 and the circuit board 111.

[0134] In some embodiments, when the guide ramp 105 is a curved surface, the shape of the curved surface can be matched with the specific type of elastic element, wherein the elastic element can be a spring, a sheet, or a rubber dome.

[0135] Figure 24 A partial structural schematic diagram of the keyboard shell 102 provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 25 yes Figure 24 A magnified schematic diagram of the local structure at point J; combined with Figure 24 and Figure 25As shown, in some embodiments, when the guide ramp 105 is curved, the curved surface includes a second lower convex surface 127, a first upper convex surface 128, and a third lower convex surface 129, which are connected sequentially; the curved surface can be a smooth surface. The height direction of the keyboard case 102 is parallel to the height direction of the electronic device in the folded state; in the height direction of the keyboard case 102, the second lower convex surface 127 is located above the third lower convex surface 129. This type of curved surface can be matched with a dome-shaped elastic element 109, for example, the curved surface matches a rubber dome, which is beneficial for the driving force of the first base plate 110 movement to be a constant value or fluctuate within a preset range, effectively reducing the maximum pulling force required when the keycap 101 is lowered, thereby helping to reduce damage to the electronic device.

[0136] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, "lower convex surface" refers to protruding downwards, and "upper convex surface" refers to protruding upwards.

[0137] See Figure 25 As shown, in some embodiments, the groove wall of the first groove 104 also has a limiting surface 133, which is disposed opposite to the guide inclined surface 105. The limiting surface 133 is a plane. The limiting surface 133 is parallel to the height direction of the keycap 101. The use of the limiting surface 133 helps to reduce the shaking of the keycap 101 during the pressing process.

[0138] Figure 26 A partial structural schematic diagram of the keyboard shell 102 provided in the embodiments of this application, projected onto a first plane; Figure 26 This is still a partial structural diagram of the keyboard shell 102; combined with Figure 25 and Figure 26As shown, in some implementations, the curved segment includes a second lower convex segment 130, a first upper convex segment 131, and a third lower convex segment 132, which are connected sequentially. The two opposite endpoints of the curved segment are the endpoint M of the free end of the second lower convex segment 130 and the endpoint N of the free end of the third lower convex segment 132, respectively. The distance between the endpoint M of the free end of the second lower convex segment 130 and the first base plate 110 is greater than the distance between the endpoint N of the free end of the third lower convex segment 132 and the first base plate 110. This allows the form of the curved surface to be matched with the corresponding elastic element 109, so that the driving force for the movement of the first base plate 110 can be a constant value or fluctuate within a preset range, effectively reducing the maximum pulling force required when the keycap 101 descends, thereby helping to reduce damage to the electronic device. For example, the second lower convex segment 130 is located above the third lower convex segment 132. The orthographic projection of the second lower convex surface 127 in the first plane is the second lower convex segment 130, and the orthographic projection of the first upper convex surface 128 in the first plane is the first upper convex segment 131; the orthographic projection of the third lower convex surface 129 in the first plane is the third lower convex segment 132. It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, "lower convex segment" refers to downward protrusion, and "upper convex segment" refers to upward protrusion.

[0139] Combination Figure 25 and Figure 26 As shown, in some embodiments, when the elastic element 109 of the keyboard assembly 100 is dome-shaped, such as a rubber dome, when the electronic device switches between an unfolded state and a folded state, the supporting force of the elastic element 109 on the keycap 101 during movement is negatively correlated with the tangent slope at any point on the first projection line. This allows the curved surface to match the corresponding elastic element 109, facilitating that the driving force for the movement of the first base plate 110 can be a constant value or fluctuate within a range near a constant value, effectively reducing the maximum pulling force required when the keycap 101 descends, thereby reducing damage to the electronic device. For example, when the electronic device switches between an unfolded state and a folded state, as the keycap 101 moves along the guide slope 105: as the supporting force of the elastic element 109 on the keycap 101 gradually increases, the tangent slope at any point on the first projection line gradually decreases; conversely, as the supporting force of the elastic element 109 on the keycap 101 gradually decreases, the tangent slope at any point on the first projection line gradually increases. The direction of the supporting force of the elastic element 109 on the keycap 101 is opposite to the second direction.

[0140] Figure 27 A partial structural schematic diagram of another form of keyboard shell 102 provided in this application embodiment; see also Figure 27As shown, in some embodiments, the groove wall of the first groove 104 also has a limiting surface 133, which is disposed opposite to the guide slope 105. The limiting surface 133 is planar; the inclination direction of the guide slope 105 is opposite to the inclination direction of the limiting surface 133. This helps to reduce the occurrence of jamming of the keycap 101 during the pressing process. For example, the limiting surface 133 and the height direction of the keycap 101 are not parallel, and the limiting surface 133 and the height direction of the keycap 101 are not perpendicular.

[0141] Figure 28 A partial structural schematic diagram of another form of keyboard shell 102 provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 28 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the keyboard casing 102 as an orthographic projection onto the first plane. See also... Figure 28 As shown, in some embodiments, when the guide ramp 105 is curved, the curved surface includes a first convex surface 134; the curved surface can be a smooth surface. The height direction of the keyboard case 102 is parallel to the height direction of the electronic device in the folded state. This type of curved surface can be matched with the spring-type elastic element 109, which is beneficial for the driving force of the first base plate 110 to be a constant value or to fluctuate within a preset range, effectively reducing the maximum pulling force required when the keycaps 101 are lowered, thereby helping to reduce damage to the electronic device.

[0142] See Figure 28 As shown, when the guide slope 105 is curved, the orthographic projection of the curved surface onto the first plane is a curve segment. The curve segment includes a first convex segment 135. The distance between one end point P of the first convex segment 135 and the first base plate 110 is greater than the distance between the other end point Q of the first convex segment 135 and the first base plate 110. This allows the form of the curved surface to match the corresponding elastic element 109, so that the driving force for the movement of the first base plate 110 can be a constant value or fluctuate within a preset range, effectively reducing the maximum pulling force required when the keycap 101 descends, thereby helping to reduce damage to the electronic device. For example, the orthographic projection of the first convex surface 134 onto the first plane is the first convex segment 135; one end point P of the first convex segment 135 is located above the other end point Q of the first convex segment 135. For example, the curve can be a logarithmic curve.

[0143] See Figure 28As shown, in some embodiments, when the elastic element 109 of the keyboard assembly 100 is a spring, when the electronic device switches between an unfolded state and a folded state, the supporting force of the keycap 101 on the keycap 101 caused by the elastic element 109 is negatively correlated with the slope of the tangent at any point on the first projection line. This allows the form of the curved surface to match the corresponding elastic element 109, so that the driving force for the movement of the first base plate 110 can be a constant value or fluctuate within a range near a constant value, effectively reducing the maximum pulling force required when the keycap 101 descends, thereby helping to reduce damage to the electronic device. For example, when the electronic device switches between an unfolded state and a folded state:

[0144] As the keycap 101 moves from the top to the bottom along the guide slope 105, the slope of the tangent at any point on the first projection line gradually decreases as the supporting force of the elastic element 109 on the keycap 101 gradually increases.

[0145] As the keycap 101 moves from the bottom to the top along the guide slope 105, the slope of the tangent at any point on the first projection line gradually increases as the supporting force of the elastic element 109 on the keycap 101 gradually decreases.

[0146] Figure 29 The diagram shows the force analysis of guide block 107 on guide ramp 105. Ignoring the friction between guide block 107 and guide ramp 105, and neglecting the weight of keycap 101, when guide block 107 needs to move at a constant speed along guide ramp 105, the following relationship exists between the pushing force F1 from push-pull rod 114 and the supporting force N1 from elastic element 109 on guide block 107: the resultant force of the component of F1 perpendicular to guide ramp 105 (F1 sinθ) and the component of N1 perpendicular to guide ramp 105 (N1 cosθ) is F2; ​​while in the direction parallel to guide ramp 105, F1 cosθ = N1 sinθ, therefore F1 = N1. tanθ, where θ is the angle between the guide ramp 105 at the location of the guide block 107 and the first direction. When the elastic element 109 is a spring or a rubber dome, the supporting force of the elastic element 109 on the guide block 107 changes during the compression process. Therefore, it is necessary to design the projection of the guide ramp 105 in the first plane, i.e., the first projection line. The slope of the tangent at any point on the first projection line is tanθ. Let N1 be a function of the independent variable x, i.e., N1(x), and the function expression of the first projection line is f(x). Therefore, F1 = N1(x)f'(x). In order to keep the thrust constant, F1 needs to be a constant value. Let F1 be a constant value K1. Therefore, we can obtain K1 = N1(x)f'(x). Then, by integration, we can obtain... Therefore, the first projection line can be drawn according to the function expression of the first projection line, and then the guide slope 105 can be obtained. Specifically, when the keycap 101 is at its highest point, it is taken as the starting point of the displacement of the guide block 107, i.e., the starting value of x; when the keycap 101 is at its lowest point, it is taken as the ending point of the displacement of the guide block 107, i.e., the ending value of x. It should be noted that when the elastic element is a spring, N1(x) = kx, where k is the spring constant; when the elastic element is a rubber dome, the function of the supporting force N1(x) of the guide block 107 on the elastic element 109 can be obtained through curve fitting or other methods.

[0147] Figure 30 This is a function graph of the supporting force of the elastic element 109 on the guide block 107 in an embodiment of this application, and a function graph of the first projection line. See also Figure 30 As shown in (a), during the descent of keycap 101, the displacement of keycap 101 gradually increases (along...). Figure 30 When the x-axis is in the positive direction, the graph of the function N1(x) is a changing curve, where point R is the support force of the elastic element 109 on the guide block 107 when the keycap 101 triggers the switch on the circuit board 111; point S is the minimum support force of the elastic element 109 on the guide block 107; and point T is the support force of the elastic element 109 on the guide block 107 when the keycap 101 descends to its lowest point. The support force at point R is equal to the support force at point T. Figure 30 The elastic element 109 is a rubber dome, and K1 can be the average of the support force at point R and the support force at point S. Figure 30 (b) is the graph of the function f(x) of the first projection line, with the endpoint M of the curve segment located at the origin and the endpoint N of the curve segment located at the highest point; while the curve segment should be the graph of the function f(x) of the first projection line rotated 180 degrees in the coordinate plane.

[0148] In the description of this application, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0149] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A keyboard assembly, characterized in that, include: A keyboard shell, wherein a receiving hole is provided on the keyboard shell, and a first groove is provided on the wall of the receiving hole, and the groove wall of the first groove has a guide slope; A keycap, wherein the keycap is disposed in the receiving hole, the keycap comprising a main body and a guide block, the guide block being connected to the main body; When the keycap moves relative to the keyboard shell in a first direction, the guide block can move along the guide ramp so that the keycap can move in a second direction, which is parallel to the height direction of the keycap, and the first direction is not parallel to the height direction of the keycap.

2. The keyboard assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The keyboard assembly also includes an elastic element and a first base plate; The elastic element is disposed between the keycap and the first base plate, and the keycap is configured to move along the first direction relative to the keyboard shell together with the first base plate.

3. The keyboard assembly as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The orthographic projection of the guide slope in the first plane is the first projection line. The first plane is parallel to the first direction and parallel to the height direction of the keycap.

4. The keyboard assembly as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, The guide slope is a curved surface, and the first projection line is a curved segment; The line connecting the two opposite endpoints of the curve segment is not parallel to the height direction of the keycap.

5. The keyboard assembly as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, The curved segment includes a first convex segment, and the distance between one end of the first convex segment and the first base plate is greater than the distance between the other end of the first convex segment and the first base plate.

6. The keyboard assembly as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, The curved segment includes a second lower convex segment, a first upper convex segment, and a third lower convex segment, which are connected sequentially. The two opposite endpoints of the curve segment are the endpoints of the free end of the second convex segment and the free end of the third convex segment, respectively. The distance between the free end of the second lower convex segment and the first base plate is greater than the distance between the free end of the third lower convex segment and the first base plate.

7. The keyboard assembly as claimed in any one of claims 4-6, characterized in that, When the keycap is moved, the supporting force of the elastic element on the keycap is negatively correlated with the slope of the tangent at any point on the first projection line.

8. The keyboard assembly as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, The guide slope is a plane, and the first projection line is a straight line segment; The straight line segment is not parallel to the height direction of the keycap.

9. The keyboard assembly as described in any one of claims 4-8, characterized in that, The elastic element is a spring; or, the elastic element is made of silicone or rubber.

10. The keyboard assembly as claimed in any one of claims 2-9, characterized in that, The keyboard assembly further includes a second base plate, which is fixedly connected to the keyboard shell, and the first base plate is located between the second base plate and the elastic member.

11. The keyboard assembly as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The second base plate has a clearance hole; when the keycap moves in the direction of the first base plate, the guide block can extend into the clearance hole.

12. The keyboard assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The keycap includes a plurality of guide blocks; the guide blocks are respectively provided on two opposite sides of the main body.

13. The keyboard assembly as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, The keycap includes two guide blocks; the guide block located on one side of the main body and the guide block located on the opposite side of the main body have a spacing greater than or equal to 0 in the width direction of the main body, and the direction from one side of the main body to the opposite side of the main body is perpendicular to the width direction of the main body.

14. The keyboard assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The main body has a protrusion extending along the height direction of the keycap, and the guide block is fixedly connected to the protrusion. The guide block and the guide ramp are in line contact.

15. The keyboard assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The groove wall of the first groove also has a limiting surface, which is disposed opposite to the guide inclined surface, and the limiting surface is a plane; The limiting surface is parallel to the height direction of the keycap, or the inclination direction of the guide slope is opposite to the inclination direction of the limiting surface.

16. The keyboard assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The first direction is perpendicular to the height direction of the keycap.

17. The keyboard assembly as claimed in any one of claims 2-11, characterized in that, The keyboard assembly also includes a lifting bracket, and the keycaps and the first base plate are respectively connected to the lifting bracket.

18. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: The first housing and the keyboard assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1-17; When the first housing rotates relative to the keyboard housing, the keycaps can move relative to the keyboard housing along the first direction.

19. The electronic device as claimed in claim 18, characterized in that, The electronic device further includes a push-pull assembly, and the keyboard assembly further includes an elastic element and a first base plate; The elastic element is disposed between the keycap and the first base plate, and the keycap is configured to move along the first direction relative to the keyboard shell together with the first base plate. The push-pull assembly includes a push-pull rod, which is fixedly connected to the first base plate. The push-pull rod is configured to move linearly along the first direction under the drive of the first housing.

20. The electronic device as claimed in claim 19, characterized in that, The electronic device further includes a first rotating shaft and a drive shaft, the first housing is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft, and the axis of rotation of the first housing relative to the keyboard housing is the axis of the first rotating shaft; The drive shaft is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft, and the axis of the drive shaft is parallel to the axis of the first rotating shaft, but the axis of the drive shaft and the axis of the first rotating shaft are not coaxial. One end of the push-pull rod has a limiting groove, and the drive shaft is inserted into the limiting groove; The limiting slide includes an arc segment and a push-pull segment, the arc segment being connected to the push-pull segment. When the drive shaft is located in the push-pull segment, the drive shaft can drive the push-pull rod to move in a straight line.

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