Key and mobile phone shell comprising same

Abstract

The utility model relates to a key and a mobile phone shell containing the same, which belong to the technical field of digital accessories, the key comprises a non-conductive key body, a plurality of conductive channels are arranged in the non-conductive key body, and the conductive channels penetrate through the upper end and the lower end of the non-conductive key body. According to the key and the mobile phone shell comprising the key, the use problem that the key protection part of the current conventional metal mobile phone shell cannot meet the function of a touch key in a novel mobile phone can be solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of digital accessories, in particular to a button and a mobile phone shell containing the button. Background Art

[0002] Mobile phone cases, an indispensable electronic accessory in modern life, primarily protect phones from accidental damage like scratches, collisions, and drops. Furthermore, with the growing demand for personalization, mobile phone cases have become an important vehicle for showcasing a user's unique taste and style. Mobile phone cases come in a wide variety of materials, including silicone, plastic, metal, wood, glass, and, in recent years, the eco-friendly, biodegradable materials that have become popular. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, silicone cases are soft, durable, and offer excellent drop resistance, while glass or metal cases offer a more premium feel and a degree of protection.

[0003] Specifically, the touch buttons on newer phones may not only be limited to simple presses but may also involve touch-based interactions such as sliding. This requires phone cases to protect the phone while not interfering with or diminishing the sensitivity and accuracy of these touch functions. Traditional metal phone cases' button guards are unable to meet the needs of touch button functionality in current phones due to the inherent conductivity of metal. Simply removing this area from the phone case's structure would leave the touch buttons unprotected, making them susceptible to scratches and damage, impacting the user experience. Utility Model Content

[0004] In order to overcome the defects of the prior art, the present invention proposes a button and a mobile phone case containing the same, which can solve the problem that the button protection of the current conventional metal mobile phone case cannot meet the use of the touch key function in the new mobile phone.

[0005] To achieve this purpose, the present invention adopts the following technical solutions:

[0006] The present invention provides a key, comprising a non-conductive key body, in which a plurality of conductive channels are provided, the conductive channels running through the upper and lower ends of the non-conductive key body. It should be noted that the non-conductive key body in the above technical solution includes but is not limited to being made of insulating material.

[0007] A preferred technical solution of the present invention is that the conductive channels are distributed in an array along the horizontal direction of the non-conductive key body.

[0008] A preferred technical solution of the present utility model is that 8-12 conductive channels are provided.

[0009] An optimal technical solution of the present invention is that the conductive channel is a cylindrical channel.

[0010] A preferred technical solution of the present invention is that the diameter of the conductive channel is 1.5-2.0 mm, the distance between adjacent conductive channels is 2.1-2.3 mm, and the length of the conductive channel is 1.6-2.2 mm.

[0011] An optimal technical solution of the present invention is that a protective layer is provided on the upper end of the non-conductive key body, and the upper end of the conductive channel is in close contact with the protective layer.

[0012] An optimal technical solution of the present invention is that the thickness of the protective layer is 0.2-0.5 mm.

[0013] The preferred technical solution of the present invention is that a groove for snap connection with the mobile phone housing is provided on the non-conductive key body.

[0014] A preferred technical solution of the present invention is that the conductive channel is made of conductive silicone.

[0015] The utility model also provides a mobile phone case, comprising a mobile phone shell, on which a button according to the above technical solution is arranged.

[0016] Beneficial effects of the utility model:

[0017] The present invention provides a key and a mobile phone case incorporating the same. This solution utilizes a non-conductive key body as its basic structure. This design ensures that the key body itself does not interfere with touch signals, thereby maintaining the sensitivity and accuracy of the touch key. More importantly, several conductive channels are provided within the non-conductive key body. These channels run through the upper and lower ends of the key body and play a key role in conducting touch signals. When the key is pressed, the touch signal is transmitted through the conductive channels, thereby triggering the touch function of the mobile phone. This mobile phone case product retains the protective properties of metal mobile phone cases, such as drop and scratch resistance, while innovatively meeting the operational requirements of touch keys through the built-in conductive channels, achieving a perfect fusion of protection and functionality, thus creatively addressing the limitations of traditional metal mobile phone cases when adapting to new touch-sensitive mobile phones. The key of the present invention can be directly added to existing mobile phone cases that have eliminated the touch key structure, directly improving the touch key protection function of existing mobile phone cases, and has promising application prospects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying any creative labor.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional diagram of the mobile phone case of Example 1;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a partial exploded view of the mobile phone case of Example 1;

[0021] Figure 3 A three-dimensional diagram of the key of Example 1;

[0022] Figure 4 It is a right view of the button of Example 1;

[0023] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Cross-sectional view along AA direction;

[0024] Figure 6 This is an exploded view of the button of Example 1.

[0025] In the picture:

[0026] 1- non-conductive key body; 11- upper end; 12- lower end; 2- conductive channel; 3- protective layer; 4- groove; 5- mobile phone housing; 6- button. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and through specific implementation methods.

[0028] Example 1

[0029] like Figure 1-6 As shown, a mobile phone case provided in this embodiment includes a mobile phone shell 5, wherein the material of the mobile phone shell 5 is a lightweight aluminum alloy material, and the mobile phone shell 5 is provided with the following button for the mobile phone touch key: the button 6 includes a non-conductive key body 1, and a plurality of conductive channels 2 are provided in the non-conductive key body 1, and the conductive channels 2 pass through the upper end 11 and the lower end 12 of the non-conductive key body 1. This solution adopts a non-conductive key body as the basic structure. This design ensures that the key body itself will not interfere with the touch signal, thereby maintaining the sensitivity and accuracy of the touch key. More importantly, a plurality of conductive channels are provided inside the non-conductive key body. These channels pass through the upper and lower ends of the key body and play a key role in conducting the touch signal. When the button is touched, the touch signal can be transmitted through the conductive channel, thereby triggering the touch function of the mobile phone. This type of mobile phone case product not only retains the protective performance of metal mobile phone cases for mobile phones, such as anti-drop and anti-scratch, but also innovatively meets the operation requirements of touch keys through built-in conductive channels, achieving a perfect combination of protection and functionality, thereby creatively solving the limitations faced by traditional metal mobile phone cases when adapting to new touch-screen mobile phones.

[0030] Preferably, the conductive channels 2 are arranged in an array along the horizontal direction of the non-conductive key body 1. This design not only improves the key's response speed and accuracy, but also significantly enhances its durability and stability. The array of conductive channels ensures that when a key is pressed, regardless of the force or position of the key, multiple channels simultaneously or sequentially transmit the touch signal, effectively distributing pressure and reducing the risk of single-point wear. Furthermore, this design provides a more uniform tactile feel for the keys, enhancing the user experience.

[0031] Preferably, 8-12 conductive channels 2 are provided. This number range not only ensures the comprehensiveness and reliability of the key function, but also avoids the complexity and cost increase that may be caused by too many channels. 8-12 conductive channels are sufficient to cover the main operating area of the key, ensuring that when the key is pressed, there are enough channels to participate in the transmission of the touch, thereby providing a stable and sensitive touch response. At the same time, the channel layout within this number range is more reasonable, which can reduce the possibility of signal interference and false touch, and enhance the user experience. In this embodiment, 8 conductive channels 2 are provided, and are evenly distributed in a single array along the horizontal direction of the non-conductive key body, which not only meets the functional requirements, but also takes into account cost-effectiveness and user experience.

[0032] Preferably, the conductive channel 2 is a cylindrical channel. The cylindrical channel offers excellent structural stability and electrical conductivity, ensuring smooth and stable transmission of the touch when the key is pressed. Furthermore, the cylindrical channel design makes the key feel rounder and more comfortable, reducing discomfort that may result from prolonged use. From a manufacturing perspective, the cylindrical channel is easy to process and assemble, reducing production difficulty and cost.

[0033] Preferably, the diameter of the conductive channel 2 is 1.5-2.0 mm, the distance between adjacent conductive channels 2 is 2.1-2.3 mm, and the length of the conductive channel 2 is 1.6-2.2 mm. The distance between adjacent conductive channels 2 refers to the distance between the central axes of the cylinders. This series of fine dimensional parameter optimizations is based on in-depth consideration of key performance, user experience and manufacturing costs. First, the diameter and length of the conductive channel directly affect its conductive efficiency and durability. The diameter of 1.5-2.0 mm ensures sufficient conductive area so that the touch signal can be transmitted efficiently and stably. At the same time, the length of 1.6-2.2 mm also ensures that the key stroke is moderate, neither too stiff nor too soft, providing a good feel. Secondly, the distance between adjacent conductive channels is controlled at 2.1-2.3 mm, which effectively avoids signal interference and false touches, and improves the accuracy and reliability of the key. In addition, the above-mentioned dimensional design also takes into account the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of manufacturing, so that material waste and processing difficulty in the production process are controlled within a reasonable range. In this embodiment, the diameter of the conductive channel 2 is 1.8 mm, the distance between adjacent conductive channels 2 is 2.1 mm, and the length of the conductive channel 2 is 1.9 mm.

[0034] Preferably, the upper end 11 of the non-conductive key body 1 is provided with a protective layer 3, and the upper end 11 of the conductive channel 2 is in close contact with the protective layer 3. The main function of the protective layer is to provide additional protection to prevent the conductive layer from being damaged due to direct exposure to the outside, such as scratches, corrosion, etc. This design not only enhances the durability of the key, but also ensures the stable transmission of the touch signal. The conductive layer is in close contact with the protective layer, which can minimize the loss of the signal during transmission and improve the sensitivity and accuracy of the touch response. In addition, the protective layer can effectively isolate the interference of the external environment, such as static electricity, dust, etc., to create a more stable working environment for the touch key. In this embodiment, the protective layer used is glass. Furthermore, the thickness of the protective layer 3 is 0.2-0.5mm. The precise control of this technical parameter is aimed at achieving the best balance between key performance and durability. As an important component of the key structure, the thickness of the protective layer directly affects the touch feel, durability and touch signal transmission efficiency of the key. A thickness range of 0.2-0.5mm ensures the protective layer has sufficient strength and toughness to withstand the wear and impact of daily use, while maintaining a soft and uniform touch on the keys, enhancing the user experience. Furthermore, the protective layer within this thickness range effectively isolates external interference, providing a stable operating environment for the touch keys.

[0035] Specifically, a conductive adhesive layer is provided between the upper end 11 of the non-conductive key body 1 and the protective layer 3. The main function of the conductive adhesive layer is to enhance the connection between the conductive channel and the protective layer, ensuring that the touch signal can be transmitted smoothly and stably. The conductive adhesive layer has good conductivity and adhesion properties, and can fit tightly to the conductive channel and the protective layer. This design not only improves the sensitivity and accuracy of the touch response, but also enhances the stability and reliability of the structure. More importantly, the introduction of the conductive adhesive layer makes the connection between the conductive channel and the protective layer more flexible, can adapt to key designs of different shapes and sizes, and provides more design space for mobile phone manufacturers. In this embodiment, the conductive adhesive layer adopts OCA adhesive.

[0036] Preferably, a conductive film layer is provided on the protective layer 3. Specifically, the conductive film layer is coated with a layer of indium tin oxide film. ITO film has become a widely used material in the touch field due to its excellent conductivity and light transmittance. In the button design, the ITO film can effectively transmit touch signals to ensure a fast and accurate signal response. At the same time, its good light transmittance makes the button more beautiful and fashionable in appearance, in line with the design trend of modern mobile phones. In addition, the ITO film also has good chemical stability and wear resistance, can resist wear and corrosion in daily use, and extend the service life of the button. More importantly, the preparation process of the ITO film is mature and the cost is relatively low, which is conducive to reducing production costs and improving market competitiveness.

[0037] Preferably, the non-conductive key body 1 is provided with a groove 4 for snap connection with the mobile phone housing 5. Compared with traditional screw fixing or gluing, the snap connection method greatly simplifies the installation process. Without the need for complicated tools and operations, users or maintenance personnel can assemble and disassemble the key and the mobile phone housing more quickly and conveniently, which not only improves the installation efficiency but also reduces the difficulty of operation. Secondly, the snap connection ensures a tight connection between the key and the mobile phone housing through physical locking, effectively preventing the key from malfunctioning or falling off due to loosening or vibration, and improving the stability and durability of the structure. In addition, the snap design also facilitates later maintenance and replacement. When the key is worn or damaged due to long-term use, there is no need to disassemble the entire mobile phone housing. It can be easily replaced by simply loosening the snap, which greatly reduces maintenance costs and time costs.

[0038] The non-conductive key body is made of insulating rubber. Because rubber has a certain degree of toughness, it facilitates snap-fit assembly of the key and the phone housing. Preferably, the conductive path 2 is made of conductive silicone. Specifically, a cylindrical piece of conductive silicone is processed and embedded into the non-conductive key body with a reserved through-hole to serve as the conductive path. The choice of conductive silicone as the material for the conductive path is based on a comprehensive consideration of conductivity, durability, and material properties. As a high-performance elastic conductive material, conductive silicone exhibits excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance, maintaining stable conductivity under various environmental conditions and ensuring accurate transmission of key signals. Furthermore, the elastic properties of conductive silicone allow it to adapt well to the deformation of the key during pressing and releasing, providing a soft and stable tactile feel and enhancing the user experience. Furthermore, conductive silicone exhibits excellent wear resistance and aging resistance, allowing it to withstand frequent key operation without damage, thereby extending the key's service life. More importantly, as an environmentally friendly material, conductive silicone is non-toxic and harmless, meeting the environmental and sustainable development requirements of modern electronic products.

[0039] The present invention is described through preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes or equivalent substitutions may be made to these features and embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, and other embodiments falling within the scope of the claims of this application are also within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A button, characterized in that: comprising a non-conductive key body (1); A plurality of conductive channels (2) are provided in the non-conductive key body (1), and the conductive channels (2) run through the upper end (11) and the lower end (12) of the non-conductive key body (1).

2. The button according to claim 1, wherein: The conductive channels (2) are distributed in an array along the horizontal direction of the non-conductive key body (1).

3. The button according to claim 1, wherein: The number of the conductive channels (2) is 8-12.

4. The button according to claim 1, wherein: The conductive channel (2) is a cylindrical channel.

5. The key according to claim 4, characterized in that: The diameter of the conductive channel (2) is 1.5-2.0 mm, the distance between adjacent conductive channels (2) is 2.1-2.3 mm, and the length of the conductive channel (2) is 1.6-2.2 mm.

6. The key according to claim 1, wherein: The upper end (11) of the non-conductive key body (1) is provided with a protective layer (3), and the upper end (11) of the conductive channel (2) is in close contact with the protective layer (3).

7. The key according to claim 6, characterized in that: The thickness of the protective layer (3) is 0.2-0.5 mm.

8. The button according to claim 1, wherein: The non-conductive key body (1) is provided with a groove (4) for snap connection with a mobile phone housing (5).

9. The button according to claim 1, wherein: The conductive channel (2) is made of conductive silica gel.

10. A mobile phone case, characterized in that: The invention comprises a mobile phone housing (5), on which a button (6) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 is arranged.

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