Light-emitting keyboard and light-emitting module

Abstract

The utility model provides a light-emitting keyboard which comprises a bracket, a plurality of keycaps, a first circuit layer and a light-emitting module. The key caps are arranged on the bracket and connected to the bracket. The first circuit layer is arranged between the keycaps and the bracket. The light-emitting module is arranged below the bracket and comprises a substrate, a second circuit layer, an auxiliary layer and a plurality of light sources. The second circuit layer is disposed on the substrate. The auxiliary layer is arranged on the substrate and is separated from the second circuit layer. The light source is disposed on the substrate and electrically connected to the second circuit layer. The luminous keyboard provided by the utility model can improve the luminous uniformity and can be thinned.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to an input device, and more particularly to an illuminated keyboard. Background Technology

[0002] Current technological advancements have made backlit keyboards a growing market trend, enhancing both aesthetics and readability. Backlit keyboards typically feature a backlight module beneath the key structure. Achieving uniform illumination and a slim profile for this module without compromising other components, thereby improving the overall effect and providing a better user experience, has become a key research focus in this field. Utility Model Content

[0003] This invention provides an illuminated keyboard that can improve the uniformity of light emission and can be made thinner.

[0004] This utility model discloses an illuminated keyboard, comprising a bracket, multiple keycaps, a first circuit layer, and an illuminated module. The keycaps are disposed on and connected to the bracket. The first circuit layer is disposed between the keycaps and the bracket. The illuminated module is disposed below the bracket and includes a substrate, a second circuit layer, an auxiliary layer, multiple light sources, and a cover layer. The second circuit layer is disposed on the substrate. The auxiliary layer is disposed on the substrate and is separated from the second circuit layer. The light sources are disposed on the substrate and electrically connected to the second circuit layer. The cover layer covers the second circuit layer and the auxiliary layer. At least a portion of the auxiliary layer contacts the bracket.

[0005] In an embodiment of this utility model, the illuminated keyboard further includes a reflective cover layer disposed on the second circuit layer and the auxiliary layer, wherein the cover layer includes a first hole and a second hole, the first hole exposing at least a portion of the auxiliary layer, and the second hole corresponding to the light source.

[0006] In an embodiment of this utility model, the bracket includes a protrusion, the substrate includes an opening, and the auxiliary layer includes a recess, the recess being disposed corresponding to the protrusion.

[0007] In an embodiment of the present invention, the bracket includes a protrusion extending toward the light-emitting module, the protrusion being located at the outer edge of the bracket, or the protrusion being located inside the bracket and corresponding to two adjacent keycaps among the plurality of keycaps.

[0008] This utility model discloses an illuminated keyboard, comprising a bracket, spacers, multiple keycaps, a first circuit layer, and an illuminated module. The spacers are disposed below the bracket and contact the bracket. The keycaps are disposed on the bracket and connected to it. The first circuit layer is disposed between the keycaps and the bracket. The illuminated module is disposed below the bracket and includes a substrate, a second circuit layer, an auxiliary layer, and a light source. The substrate includes an upper surface and a lower surface. The second circuit layer is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate. The auxiliary layer is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate and is separated from the second circuit layer. The light source is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate and electrically connected to the second circuit layer. At least a portion of the auxiliary layer contacts the spacers.

[0009] In an embodiment of this utility model, the spacer includes a conductive material, with its two ends respectively connected to the bracket and the auxiliary layer.

[0010] In an embodiment of this utility model, the illuminated keyboard further includes a cover layer disposed on the second circuit layer and the auxiliary layer, and covering a portion of the upper surface of the substrate.

[0011] In an embodiment of this utility model, the auxiliary layer includes a first part and a second part, the cover layer covers the second circuit layer and the first part of the auxiliary layer, and the cover layer exposes the light source and the second part of the auxiliary layer, and the second part of the auxiliary layer is directly or indirectly connected to the lower surface of the bracket.

[0012] In an embodiment of this invention, the distribution density of the first part of the auxiliary layer is less than the distribution density of the second part of the auxiliary layer.

[0013] In an embodiment of this utility model, at least one of the first portion and the second portion of the auxiliary layer is in a grid pattern.

[0014] In an embodiment of this utility model, the auxiliary layer is a patterned conductor layer, and the auxiliary layer comprises the same material as the second circuit layer.

[0015] In an embodiment of this utility model, the auxiliary layer includes a first part and a second part. The first part is disposed below one of the plurality of keycaps, and the second part is disposed below the bracket between two adjacent keycaps.

[0016] In an embodiment of this utility model, the light-emitting module further includes a light guide layer and a pattern layer. The light guide layer is disposed between the substrate and the pattern layer. The light guide layer includes holes, and the light source is disposed in the holes. The pattern layer has a patterned light-shielding coating or a patterned reflective coating corresponding to the light source.

[0017] In an embodiment of this utility model, the light source includes a chip having a long axis that extends along a direction parallel to the short side of the illuminated keyboard.

[0018] In an embodiment of this utility model, the bracket includes a bracket hole located below one of the plurality of keycaps and corresponding to the light source.

[0019] In an embodiment of this utility model, the light source includes a chip, the chip having a long axis that extends parallel to the short side of the illuminated keyboard.

[0020] In an embodiment of this utility model, the light source includes two chips, each of which has a long axis, and the long axis of one chip is parallel to and side by side with the long axis of the other chip.

[0021] In an embodiment of this utility model, the light source includes two chips, each of the two chips having a long axis, and the long axis of one of the two chips is coaxial with the long axis of the other.

[0022] In an embodiment of this utility model, the light source includes a first chip and a second chip. The first chip has a first short side, and the second chip has a second short side. The first short side and the second short side are adjacent to each other, and the first chip and the second chip have the same polarity at the corresponding first short side and second short side.

[0023] In an embodiment of this utility model, the light source includes two chips with a gap between them, and at least one of the two chips is covered with phosphor.

[0024] In an embodiment of this utility model, the second circuit layer includes two wires electrically connected to both sides of the light source, the light source having a long axis, and the two wires extending in a direction parallel to the long axis.

[0025] This utility model discloses a light-emitting module, comprising a substrate, a backlight circuit layer, an auxiliary layer, a light source, and a cover layer. The backlight circuit layer is disposed on the substrate. The auxiliary layer is disposed on the substrate and is separated from the backlight circuit layer. The light source is disposed on the substrate and electrically connected to the backlight circuit layer. The cover layer is conformally disposed on the backlight circuit layer and the auxiliary layer. At least a portion of the cover layer is exposed above the auxiliary layer.

[0026] In an embodiment of this utility model, the auxiliary layer includes a first part and a second part, the cover layer covers the backlight circuit layer and the first part, and the cover layer exposes the light source and the second part.

[0027] In an embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first part and the second part is in the form of a mesh, and the second part is correspondingly disposed on the outer edge of the substrate.

[0028] In an embodiment of this utility model, the light-emitting module further includes a pattern layer disposed on the cover layer, wherein the pattern layer has an opening at a location corresponding to at least a portion of the cover layer exposing the auxiliary layer, so as to expose at least a portion of the auxiliary layer.

[0029] In an embodiment of this utility model, the light-emitting module further includes a pattern layer disposed on the cover layer. The pattern layer has an opening, which corresponds to the recess in the auxiliary layer and the opening in the substrate.

[0030] In an embodiment of this utility model, the covering layer includes a reflective material or a surface coated with white paint, and a black paint is applied to the edge corresponding to the substrate.

[0031] In an embodiment of this utility model, the light source includes a first chip and a second chip, the first chip and the second chip having two adjacent sides, and the first chip and the second chip having the same polarity at the corresponding adjacent sides.

[0032] In an embodiment of this utility model, the light source includes a packaging material that covers the first chip and the second chip.

[0033] Based on the above, the second circuit layer and auxiliary layer of the light-emitting module of the illuminated keyboard of this invention are separately disposed on the substrate, and the light source on the substrate is electrically connected to the second circuit layer. This integrated backlight device helps to promote thinness and uniform light emission design. Compared to the substrate surface only having the second circuit layer, the substrate surface also has an auxiliary layer, which can increase the overall flatness and reduce the overall thickness. In addition, a portion of the auxiliary layer contacts the surface of the illuminated keyboard bracket or the spacer under the bracket, so the auxiliary layer can be conductive to the bracket or the spacer. In this way, the illuminated keyboard of this invention can not affect the signals below. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a top view schematic diagram of an illuminated keyboard according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0035] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A top view of the light-emitting module;

[0036] Figure 2B It is hidden Figure 2A A top view of the patterned layer;

[0037] Figure 2Cyes Figure 2B A magnified view of a single button area;

[0038] Figure 2D It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of line segment AA;

[0039] Figure 3 This is a top view schematic diagram of a light source, a second circuit layer and an auxiliary layer according to another embodiment of the present utility model;

[0040] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of various illuminated keyboards according to other embodiments of the present utility model;

[0041] Figure 6A This is a partial bottom view of a backlit keyboard according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 6B It is applicable Figure 6A A schematic diagram of the substrate;

[0043] Figure 6C yes Figure 6A A schematic diagram of the light source, the second circuit layer, and the auxiliary layer;

[0044] Figure 6D It is covered Figure 6A A schematic diagram of the covering layer;

[0045] Figure 7A This is a partial bottom view of a backlit keyboard according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 7B It corresponds to Figure 7A A schematic diagram of the region's light source, second circuit layer, and auxiliary layer;

[0047] Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a backlit keyboard according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 9A It corresponds Figure 8 A partial top view of a backlit keyboard according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figures 9B to 9D yes Figure 9A Enlarged schematic diagrams of various types of light sources;

[0050] Figure 10A correspond Figure 8 A partial top view of a backlit keyboard according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figures 10B to 10E yes Figure 10A Enlarged schematic diagrams of various types of light sources.

[0052] Explanation of icon numbers

[0053] L1, L2: Longer sides;

[0054] S1, S2: Shorter sides;

[0055] 10, 10a, 10b: Illuminated keyboard;

[0056] 20: Bracket;

[0057] 22: Protrusion;

[0058] 23: Screw hole;

[0059] 24: Bracket hole;

[0060] 30: Spacer;

[0061] 30b: Hot melt component;

[0062] 40: Keycaps;

[0063] 50: First circuit layer;

[0064] 100: Light-emitting module;

[0065] 110: substrate;

[0066] 112: Upper surface;

[0067] 114: Lower surface;

[0068] 116: Opening;

[0069] 120: Second circuit layer;

[0070] 120a, 120b: Conductors;

[0071] 130, 130a, 130b: Auxiliary layers;

[0072] 132, 132a: Part One;

[0073] 134, 134a: Part Two;

[0074] 136: Depression;

[0075] 140: Light source;

[0076] 141a, 141b: Chips;

[0077] 142, 142a, 142b: Positive terminals;

[0078] 144, 144a, 144b: Negative terminals;

[0079] 146: Phosphor;

[0080] 148: Packaging material;

[0081] 150: Overlay;

[0082] 152: First hole;

[0083] 154: Second hole;

[0084] 160: Light guide layer;

[0085] 162: Hole;

[0086] 170: Pattern layer;

[0087] 172: Shielding film;

[0088] 174: Reflective film;

[0089] 180: Electronic components. Detailed Implementation

[0090] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same component reference numerals are used in the drawings and description to denote the same or similar parts.

[0091] Figure 1 This is a top view schematic diagram of an illuminated keyboard according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A top view of the light-emitting module. Figure 2B It is hidden Figure 2A A top view of the patterned layer. Figure 2C yes Figure 2A A magnified view of a single button area. Figure 2D It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of line segment AA.

[0092] Please see Figures 1 to 2D The backlit keyboard 10 of this embodiment includes a bracket 20, multiple keycaps 40, a first circuit layer 50, and a backlight module 100. The bracket 20 is, for example, a metal bracket. Figure 2C and Figure 2D As shown, the bracket 20 located between the keycap 40 and the light-emitting module 100 has at least one bracket hole 24, so that the light emitted by the light-emitting module 100 can pass through the bracket hole 24 and be transmitted to the keycap 40.

[0093] like Figure 2DAs shown, in this embodiment, the bracket 20 includes a downwardly extending protrusion 22. The protrusion 22 is located inside the backlit keyboard 10 and corresponds between adjacent keycaps 40. The protrusion 22 may further include a screw hole 23 for securing the backlit keyboard 10 to an electronic device (such as a laptop computer). The keycaps 40 are disposed on the bracket 20 and connected to the bracket 20 by a plurality of support components (e.g., scissor-switch structures, but not limited thereto). A first circuit layer 50 is disposed between the keycaps 40 and the bracket 20 as a keyboard circuit layer, for being triggered when the keycaps 40 are pressed down.

[0094] The light-emitting module 100 is disposed below the bracket 20 and serves as the backlight module for the keyboard, enabling the character patterns or outlines corresponding to the keycaps 40 to be visible in low-light environments. The light-emitting module 100, for example, corresponds to the size or outline of the bracket 20 and includes a substrate 110, a second circuit layer 120, an auxiliary layer (dummy layer) 130, multiple light sources 140, and a cover layer 150.

[0095] In one embodiment, the substrate 110 of the light-emitting module 100 may be a rigid or flexible substrate. In another embodiment, the substrate 110 may also be a composite board, which may include a reflective sheet, which may be copper foil or aluminum foil, and is separated from the second circuit layer 120 by an insulating layer. In addition, the substrate 110 includes an opening 116, and the protrusion 22 of the bracket 20 may optionally pass through the opening 116.

[0096] The substrate 110 includes an upper surface 112 and a lower surface 114. A second circuit layer 120 and an auxiliary layer 130 are disposed separately on the upper surface 112 of the substrate 110. The second circuit layer 120 serves as a backlight circuit layer for electrical connection to the light source 140, and the auxiliary layer 130 is electrically insulated from the second circuit layer 120. Since the second circuit layer 120 is only disposed in a local area of ​​the upper surface 112 of the substrate 110, the auxiliary layer 130 is used to make the protrusions on the upper surface 112 of the substrate 110 more uniformly distributed, thereby reducing stress concentration or uneven thermal expansion, alleviating warping or deformation of the substrate 110, and thus increasing the overall flatness of the light-emitting module 100.

[0097] In one embodiment, under the same thickness conditions, the rigidity of the auxiliary layer 130 can be greater than that of the substrate 110. The auxiliary layer 130 is, for example, a patterned conductor layer. The materials of the auxiliary layer 130 and the second circuit layer 120 include conductive metals such as copper, silver, nickel, tin, and tungsten. For example, the auxiliary layer 130 and the second circuit layer 120 can be printed using silver paste, copper paste, inkjet copper, or copper foil etching, but are not limited thereto. In this embodiment, the auxiliary layer 130 and the second circuit layer 120 can be made of the same material (e.g., copper) and can be formed separately in the same process step, and are separated from each other for insulation.

[0098] The auxiliary layer 130 includes a first portion 132 and a second portion 134. The material of the auxiliary layer 130 may be formed in a partially distributed manner on the surface of the substrate 110 where the second circuit layer 120 is not located. In one embodiment, the first portion 132 of the auxiliary layer 130 is disposed below the keycap 40, for example, in a substantially uniformly distributed pattern (such as a grid, mesh, dot, or line pattern), while the second portion 134 may be correspondingly disposed below adjacent keycaps 40. The auxiliary layer 130 includes a recess 136 adjacent to the second portion 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 and corresponding to the opening 116 and / or the screw hole 23 of the protrusion 22 of the substrate 110. Figure 2C As shown, in this embodiment, the recess 136 is, for example, a through hole that penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the auxiliary layer 130, so that the screw hole 23 corresponding to the protrusion 22 can be inserted into the recess 136.

[0099] A light source 140 is disposed on the upper surface 112 of the substrate 110 and electrically connected to the second circuit layer 120. The light source 140 may include a chip-scale packaged (CSP) light-emitting diode, a sub-millimeter light-emitting diode (mini LED), or a micro light-emitting diode (micro LED), and the type of light source 140 is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, a single button may be provided with at least one light source 140. Figures 2B to 2D As shown, the light source 140 corresponding to a single keycap 40 is located below the bracket hole 24 of the bracket 20. It includes an LED chip with a long axis, connected to the second circuit layer 120 via positive and negative terminals. In this embodiment, the long axis of the LED chip is, for example, parallel to the short side of the illuminated keyboard 10 (e.g.,...). Figures 2A to 2C Extending in the Y direction. The second circuit layer 120, the auxiliary layer 130 and multiple light sources 140 are disposed on the same substrate 110 as an integrated backlight, which helps to improve the light emission uniformity of the light-emitting module 100 and achieve a thinner effect.

[0100] The cover layer 150 covers the second circuit layer 120 and the first portion 132 of the auxiliary layer 130, and exposes the light source 140 and the second portion 134 of the auxiliary layer 130. The first portion 132 of the auxiliary layer 130 is, for example, a covered portion, and the second portion 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 is, for example, an exposed portion. In this embodiment, the cover layer 150 is, for example, a flexible insulating film that can conformally cover the auxiliary layer 130 and the second circuit layer 120. The cover layer 150 includes a first hole 152 exposing the second portion 134 of the auxiliary layer 130, allowing the second portion 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 to contact a portion of the surface of the bracket 20. Furthermore, the cover layer 150 also includes a second hole 154 exposing the second circuit layer 120, allowing the light source 140 to connect to the second circuit layer 120.

[0101] like Figure 2D As shown, the light-emitting module 100, located below the bracket 20, faces the protrusion 22 through the opening 116, and the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 can contact or be directly connected to the lower surface of the bracket 20. In this embodiment, the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 contacts the protrusion 22 of the bracket 20 and overlaps the bracket 20. In one embodiment, the bracket 20 may subsequently be electrically connected to the system ground plane, so that the light-emitting keyboard 10 is coupled to the ground terminal through the bracket 20, but this is not a limitation.

[0102] In addition, such as Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, in this embodiment, the first part 132 of the auxiliary layer 130b is located below the outline of the corresponding keycap 40, and the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130b is located outside the outline edge of the corresponding keycap 40 (as shown in the figure, located at the upper edge of the top row of the keyboard). In this embodiment, the protrusion 22 of the second part 134 is connected to... Figure 2D It will also be located on the outer edge of the bracket. Of course, the form of the auxiliary layer 130 and the position of the second part 134 are not limited thereto.

[0103] If an illuminated keyboard is integrated into a device such as a laptop, the circuit layer or metal layer of the keyboard may block signals from the components below, causing interference or impact on the antenna or communication module signals of the motherboard. Therefore, when using the illuminated keyboard 10 of this embodiment, the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 grounded by the bracket 20 can reduce the impact on signals emitted by components located below the illuminated keyboard 10.

[0104] In addition, in this embodiment, the light-emitting module 100 also includes a light guide layer 160 and a pattern layer 170. The light guide layer 160 is disposed on the cover layer 150, and the pattern layer 170 is disposed on the light guide layer 160.

[0105] The light guide layer 160 includes a plurality of holes 162, with light sources 140 corresponding to the holes 162. For example, one or more light sources 140 may be provided for a single hole 162. The cover layer 150 may further include a reflective material that can reflect light emitted from the light sources 140 back into the light guide layer 160 for transmission. In addition, the cover layer 150 is conformally disposed on the first portion 132 of the auxiliary layer 130, and the reflective surface of the cover layer 150 is formed with a rough structure, which can further enhance the brightness of the reflected light to improve the uniformity of light emission.

[0106] In one embodiment, the light source 140 is, for example, a side-emitting light-emitting diode (LED), and the light-emitting surface of the light source 140 may face the sidewall of the aperture 162 of the light guide layer 160, so that light emitted from the light source 140 enters the light guide layer 160 through the sidewall of the aperture 162. In another embodiment, the light source 140 may also be a top-emitting LED, and a reflective coating (e.g., reflective film 174) disposed above the light source 140 may reflect the light emitted from the light source 140 back into the light guide layer 160.

[0107] The patterned layer 170 disposed on the light guide layer 160 has a shielding film 172 and / or a reflective film 174 at the location corresponding to the light source 140. The patterned layer 170 may be a light-transmitting polymer film such as polyester or polyimide, and a patterned light-shielding coating (e.g., black or dark ink) or a patterned reflective coating (e.g., white ink or a metallic coating) may be printed or coated on the surface of the light-transmitting film, but this is not a limitation. In some embodiments, the patterned layer 170 may also be a light-shielding pattern or a reflective pattern printed on the surface of the bracket 20 or the light guide layer 160, omitting the light-transmitting film. Furthermore, as Figure 2D As shown, the light guide layer 160 or the pattern layer 170 may be selectively provided with holes or openings to expose the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130, so that the second part 134 can contact the lower surface of the bracket 20, for example at the corresponding protrusion 22.

[0108] Figure 3 This is a top view schematic diagram of a light source, a second circuit layer, and an auxiliary layer according to another embodiment of the present invention. Please refer to... Figure 3 , Figure 3 and Figure 2B The main difference lies in the configuration of the auxiliary layer 130a. For example, when Figure 3 The auxiliary layer 130a is made of printed silver paste and Figure 2B The auxiliary layer 130 is made of patterned copper foil. Figure 3 The distribution density of the auxiliary layer 130a is less than Figure 2B The distribution density of the auxiliary layer 130.

[0109] In this embodiment, the first portion 132a of the auxiliary layer 130a is, for example, a substantially uniformly distributed pattern (such as a grid, mesh, dot, or line) disposed below the keycap 40, while the second portion 134a may be disposed below adjacent keycaps 40 or on the outer edge of the corresponding bracket 20 (or substrate 110). In this embodiment, the distribution density of the first portion 132a of the auxiliary layer 130a is less than the distribution density of the first portion 132 of the auxiliary layer 130, and the distribution density of the second portion 134a of the auxiliary layer 130a is less than the distribution density of the second portion 134 of the auxiliary layer 130.

[0110] Figure 3 auxiliary layer 130a and Figure 2A The difference in density of the auxiliary layer 130 can be due to the use of different conductor materials (silver, copper) or different process conditions (for example, if the process includes steps with higher heating temperatures, more auxiliary layers are needed to prevent warping). The aforementioned distribution density refers to the pattern distribution density of the auxiliary layer material within a specific area. Of course, the material and pattern of the auxiliary layer 130a are not limited by this.

[0111] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of various illuminated keyboards according to other embodiments of the present invention. Please refer to the following first. Figure 4 , Figure 4 Backlit keyboard 10a and Figure 2C The main difference of the backlit keyboard 10 is that, Figure 2D In this embodiment, the illuminated keyboard 10 can be fixed to other devices via a protrusion 22, which extends from the bottom surface of the bracket 20 and contacts the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130. In this embodiment, the bracket 20 of the illuminated keyboard 10a may not have such a feature. Figure 2D The protrusion 22 shown means that the substrate 110 does not need to be correspondingly provided as shown. Figure 2C The opening 116 is shown. The illuminated keyboard 10a also includes a spacer 30 to compensate for the height difference between the bracket 20 and the light-emitting module 100 in a certain area, improving the flatness of the bottom surface of the illuminated keyboard 10a. The spacer 30 is disposed between the bracket 20 and the auxiliary layer 130, and corresponds to the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130. The spacer 30 is made of a conductive material such as metal. The spacer 30 is disposed under the bracket 20 and is conductive to the bracket 20, and the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 overlaps the spacer 30, so the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 can be indirectly connected to the lower surface of the bracket 20.

[0112] Similarly, the bracket 20 can be subsequently connected to the system ground plane via screws or other fasteners, but this is not a limitation. In this way, if the backlit keyboard 10a of this embodiment is installed in a device such as a laptop computer, the auxiliary layer 130 will not affect the signals emitted by the components located below the backlit keyboard 10a.

[0113] In this embodiment, the spacer 30 is, for example, conductive foam, but the type of spacer 30 is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the spacer 30 may also be a metal block or a spring sheet, abutting against the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130. In other embodiments, the spacer 30 may also be a nut fixed to the bracket 20, and the spacer 30 includes a screw hole corresponding to the recess or opening of the auxiliary layer 130.

[0114] Although Figure 4The spacer 30 shown is located in the internal region of the illuminated keyboard between two adjacent keycaps 40. In other embodiments, the spacer 30 may also be located at the periphery of the illuminated keyboard, such as the outer edge of the corresponding bracket 20.

[0115] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 5 Backlit keyboard 10b and Figure 2C The main difference of the backlit keyboard 10 is that, Figure 5 In this embodiment, the light-emitting module 100 is bonded to the bracket 20 via a hot-melt member 30b. The hot-melt member 30b passes through the openings of the first circuit layer 50, the bracket 20, and the light-emitting module 100, and is fixed to the underside of the bracket 20 by the compression of the bottom of the hot-melt member 30b. The substrate 110 is, for example, a flexible substrate. The substrate 110 is deformed between the first part 132 and the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 to form a bent section, so as to be close to the lower surface of the bracket 20 at the corresponding hot-melt member 30b. The second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 also contacts the bracket 20 by the abutment of the hot-melt member 30b. In this embodiment, the substrate 110, together with the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 thereon, is compressed upward by the hot-melt member 30b, and is located on a different horizontal plane relative to the other parts of the substrate 110 and the first part 132 of the auxiliary layer 130.

[0116] Similarly, the bracket 20 can be electrically connected to the system ground plane, but this is not a limitation. In this way, if the backlit keyboard 10b of this embodiment is installed in a device such as a laptop computer, the auxiliary layer 130 will not affect the signals emitted by the components located below the backlit keyboard 10b.

[0117] Figure 6A This is a partial bottom view of a backlit keyboard according to another embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that... Figure 6A The substrate in which the light-emitting module is hidden. Figure 6B It is applicable Figure 6A A schematic diagram of the substrate. Figure 6C It corresponds to Figure 6A A schematic diagram of the region's light source, second circuit layer, and auxiliary layer. Figure 6D It corresponds to Figure 6A A schematic diagram of the area's covering layer.

[0118] Please see Figure 2D and Figures 6A to 6DIn this embodiment, the component arrangement of the light-emitting module 100 below the bracket 20 is mainly illustrated using two buttons as an example, particularly the details of the second circuit layer 120 and the auxiliary layer 130. The distribution density of the first part 132 of the auxiliary layer 130 is less than that of the second part 134. The material of the first part 132 is sparser than that of the second part 134, and the first part 132 has more or larger gaps. Taking copper as an example, the materials of the second circuit layer 120 and the auxiliary layer 130 are as follows: the first part 132 of the auxiliary layer 130 is grid-like, and the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 is planar. The second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130, for example, corresponds to... Figure 2C The protrusion 22 contacts a portion of the surface of the bracket 20. The cover layer 150, auxiliary layer 130, and substrate 110 below the bracket 20 are respectively provided with openings or holes corresponding to the screw holes 23. Specifically, this refers to the recess 136 of the auxiliary layer 130, the opening 116 of the substrate 110, and the first hole 152 of the cover layer 150.

[0119] Depend on Figure 6A and Figure 6C As can be seen, the positive and negative electrodes of the light source 140 are respectively connected to two wires of the second circuit layer 120. The second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 is connected to the first part 132 and is separated from the two wires of the second circuit layer 120, so the auxiliary layer 130 and the second circuit layer 120 are not electrically connected. The recess 136 of the second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 is used to supply power to the light source. Figure 2C The protrusion 22 passes through.

[0120] like Figure 6B As shown, the position of the opening 116 in the substrate 110 corresponds to Figure 6C The second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 has a recess 136.

[0121] like Figure 6D As shown, the first hole 152 of the cover layer 150 corresponds to Figure 6C The second part 134 of the auxiliary layer 130 has a recess 136, which allows for... Figure 2C The protrusion 22 passes through, and the second hole 154 of the cover layer 150 corresponds to Figure 6C The light source 140 has its light-emitting surface not covered by the cover layer 150, allowing light to pass through. In one embodiment, the cover layer 150 may contain a reflective material or may be coated with white paint, and black paint may be applied to the edges of the corresponding bracket 20 or substrate 110 to prevent light leakage at the edges, thereby improving the brightness and uniformity of the light-emitting module 100. However, the form of the cover layer 150 is not limited to this.

[0122] Figure 7A This is a partial bottom view of a backlit keyboard according to another embodiment of the present invention, in which the substrate of the backlit module is hidden. Figure 7B It corresponds to Figure 7A A schematic diagram of the region's light source, second circuit layer, and auxiliary layer.

[0123] Please see Figure 7A and Figure 7B In this embodiment, with Figures 6A to 6D The main difference lies in the distribution shape of the auxiliary layer. Taking the second circuit layer 120 and the auxiliary layer 130a as examples where the material includes silver paste, compared to copper, the substrate of the light-emitting module in this embodiment deforms less due to uneven thermal expansion. Therefore, the distribution density of the auxiliary layer 130a in this embodiment can be less than that of silver paste. Figures 6A to 6D The distribution density of the auxiliary layer 130 is shown. The first part 132a of the auxiliary layer 130a is linear, and the second part 134a of the auxiliary layer 130a is grid-like, such that the distribution density of the first part 132a is less than that of the second part 134a. The positive and negative electrodes of the light source 140 are connected to two wires of the second circuit layer 120 and are separated from the auxiliary layer 130a. The first part 132a is, for example, partially parallel to the two wires of the second circuit layer 120, and the second part 134a corresponds to the surface of the contact bracket. It should be noted that... Figure 7A and Figure 7B The corresponding substrate and cover layer can be as follows Figure 6B and Figure 6D As shown, I will not elaborate further here.

[0124] Of course, the material and form of the auxiliary layers 130 and 130a are not limited thereto, as long as they are disposed on the surface of the substrate 110 in isolation from the second circuit layer 120 (backlight circuit layer). The following embodiments mainly illustrate the details of the arrangement of the light source 140. Although the part where the auxiliary layer contacts the bracket is not shown, it can also have the characteristics of the auxiliary layer described above, and will not be described in detail again.

[0125] Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a backlit keyboard according to another embodiment of the present invention. Please refer to [the previous section]. Figure 8 , Figure 8 Backlit keyboard 10c and Figure 2C The main difference of the backlit keyboard 10 is that Figure 8 This example uses a single key to illustrate the light source pattern 140 corresponding to the area below a single keycap (40). Figure 8 In the single keycap 40, the light source 140 corresponding to the keycap 40 includes two LED chips 141a and 141b. In one embodiment, chips 141a and 141b may be selectively encapsulated with phosphor and used as the light source 140, and are disposed below the single bracket hole 24. The light emitted by chips 141a and 141b may be the same or different colors, and after being matched with suitable phosphor and excited to generate mixed light, the light source 140 can thus emit two different colors of light.

[0126] Figure 9A It corresponds Figure 8 A partial top view of a backlit keyboard according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 9B to 9D yes Figure 9A Enlarged schematic diagrams of various types of light sources. Please refer to... Figure 8 , Figures 9A to 9B In this embodiment, the two chips 141a and 141b may be of different colors. For example, chip 141a may emit white light, and chip 141b may emit red light, but the colors of chips 141a and 141b are not limited to this. Furthermore, chips 141a and 141b may be connected to different conductors on the second circuit layer 120, and can be connected via electronic component 180 (… Figure 2C Other methods, such as resistors, jumpers, and / or vias, can be used to achieve the effect of controlling the light emission of chips 141a and 141b respectively.

[0127] Please see Figure 9A and Figure 9B Chips 141a and 141b are, for example, rectangular in shape and each has a major axis. In this embodiment, the two major axes of the two chips 141a and 141b corresponding to a single bracket hole 24 are parallel (along...) Figure 9A , Figure 9B The two wires of the second circuit layer 120 extend along the two major axes parallel to those of chips 141a and 141b. The two side-by-side chips 141a and 141b have two adjacent long sides L1 and L2, for example, the long side L1 of chip 141a faces the long side L2 of chip 141b, and there is a gap between the long sides L1 and L2.

[0128] like Figure 9B As shown, chips 141a and 141b each have a positive and a negative terminal. Chip 141a is electrically connected to the wires of the second circuit layer 120 through positive terminal 142a and negative terminal 144a, respectively. Chip 141b is electrically connected to the wires of the second circuit layer 120 through positive terminal 142b and negative terminal 144b, respectively. The positive terminal 142a of chip 141a is adjacent to the positive terminal 142b of chip 141b, and the negative terminal 144a of chip 141a is adjacent to the negative terminal 144b of chip 141b. In this embodiment, chip 141a is, for example, a blue light chip, and chip 141b is, for example, a red light chip. Both chips 141a and 141b are covered with phosphor 146, which is, for example, a yellow phosphor. Therefore, the blue light emitted by chip 141a excites the phosphor 146 to produce mixed light and emits white light (W), while the red light emitted by chip 141b does not excite the phosphor 146 and still emits red light (R).

[0129] Please see Figure 9C , Figure 9C and Figure 9B The main difference is that, Figure 9C In this embodiment, chips 141a and 141b are, for example, blue light chips. Chip 141a is covered with yellow phosphor 146, and after excitation, white light (W) and blue light (B) can be emitted from chips 141a and 141b, respectively. In this embodiment, both chips 141a and 141b are covered with encapsulation material 148, which is, for example, transparent adhesive.

[0130] Please see Figure 9D , Figure 9D and Figure 9C The main difference is that, Figure 9D In this design, chips 141a and 141b are, for example, blue LED chips. Each chip is covered by a different phosphor 146 and is also covered by a packaging material 148. The phosphors 146 covering chips 141a and 141b are, for example, yellow and orange, respectively, so that chips 141a and 141b can emit white light (W) and orange light (O) respectively after being excited by the different phosphors 146.

[0131] Figure 10A It corresponds Figure 8 A partial top view of a backlit keyboard according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figures 10B to 10E yes Figure 10A Enlarged schematic diagrams of various types of light sources.

[0132] Please see Figures 10A to 10E The two major axes of the two chips 141a and 141b are along Figures 10A to 10E The two chips 141a and 141b extend in the X direction and their major axes are coaxial. The two coaxial chips 141a and 141b have two adjacent short sides S1 and S2. For example, the short side S1 of chip 141a faces the short side S2 of chip 141b, and there is a gap between the short sides S1 and S2.

[0133] Specifically, such as Figure 10B As shown, in this embodiment, chips 141a and 141b are, for example, blue and red light chips, respectively. Chip 141a is covered by phosphor 146, and both chips 141a and 141b are covered by encapsulation material 148. The phosphor 146 covering chip 141a is, for example, yellow, so after excitation, white light (W) and red light (R) can be generated at the corresponding locations of chips 141a and 141b, respectively. In addition, the negative terminal 144a of chip 141a is adjacent to the positive terminal 142b of chip 141b.

[0134] like Figure 10C As shown, Figure 10C and Figure 10B The main difference is that, in this embodiment, the positive terminal 142a of chip 141a is adjacent to the positive terminal 142b of chip 141b, that is, the short side S1 of chip 141a and the short side S2 of chip 141b have the same polarity.

[0135] like Figure 10D As shown, Figure 10D and Figure 10B The main difference lies in the fact that, in this embodiment, chips 141a and 141b are, for example, blue light chips. Both chips 141a and 141b are covered with phosphors 146 of different colors, and both chips 141a and 141b are covered with encapsulation material 148. The phosphors 146 covering chips 141a and 141b are, for example, yellow and orange, respectively, so that chips 141a and 141b can emit white light (W) and orange light (O) respectively after exciting the different phosphors 146.

[0136] like Figure 10E As shown, Figure 10E and Figure 10D The main difference is that, in this embodiment, the positive terminal 142a of chip 141a is adjacent to the positive terminal 142b of chip 141b. Since the short side S1 of chip 141a and the short side S2 of chip 141b have the same polarity, the accuracy of alignment with the positive terminals 142a and 142b when chips 141a and 141b are mounted on the second circuit layer 120 can be improved.

[0137] like Figures 10A to 10E The arrangement of the two chips 141a and 141b with their short sides S1 and S2 adjacent to each other, only at the corresponding short sides S1 and S2, may cause light from chips 141a and 141b to excite adjacent phosphors 146, resulting in unnecessary light mixing. Therefore, it is less prone to light mixing than the arrangement with their long sides adjacent to each other (e.g., ...). Figures 9A to 9D (As shown) It has a better light-emitting effect.

[0138] In summary, the second circuit layer and auxiliary layer of the backlight module of the illuminated keyboard of this invention are separately disposed on the substrate, and the light source on the substrate is electrically connected to the second circuit layer. This integrated backlight device helps to promote thinness and uniform light emission design. Compared to a substrate surface with only a second circuit layer, the substrate surface also has an auxiliary layer, which increases the overall flatness and reduces the overall thickness. In addition, a portion of the auxiliary layer contacts the surface of the keyboard bracket or the spacer under the bracket, so the auxiliary layer can be conductive to the bracket or the spacer. In this way, the illuminated keyboard of this invention can avoid affecting the signals below.

[0139] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this utility model, and are not intended to limit it. Although the utility model 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 or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model.

Claims

1. A lighted keyboard, comprising: include: bracket; Multiple keycaps are mounted on and connected to the bracket; A first circuit layer is disposed between the plurality of keycaps and the bracket; as well as A light-emitting module, disposed below the bracket, includes: substrate; A second circuit layer is disposed on the substrate; An auxiliary layer is disposed on the substrate and is separate from the second circuit layer; and A light source is disposed on the substrate and electrically connected to the second circuit layer. At least a portion of the auxiliary layer is in contact with the bracket.

2. The lighted keyboard of claim 1, wherein, It also includes a reflective cover layer disposed on the second circuit layer and the auxiliary layer, wherein the cover layer includes a first hole and a second hole, the first hole exposing at least a portion of the auxiliary layer, and the second hole corresponding to the light source.

3. The lighted keyboard of claim 1, wherein, The bracket includes a protrusion, the substrate includes an opening, and the auxiliary layer includes a recess, the recess being disposed corresponding to the protrusion.

4. The lighted keyboard of claim 1, wherein, The bracket includes a protrusion extending toward the light-emitting module, the protrusion being located at the outer edge of the bracket, or the protrusion being located inside the bracket and corresponding to two adjacent keycaps.

5. A backlit keyboard, characterized in that, include: bracket; A spacer is disposed under the bracket and in contact with the bracket; Multiple keycaps are mounted on and connected to the bracket; A first circuit layer is disposed between the plurality of keycaps and the bracket; as well as A light-emitting module, disposed below the bracket, includes: The substrate includes an upper surface and a lower surface; A second circuit layer is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate; An auxiliary layer is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate and is separated from the second circuit layer; and A light source is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate and electrically connected to the second circuit layer. At least a portion of the auxiliary layer contacts the spacer.

6. The lighted keyboard of claim 5, wherein, The spacer comprises a conductive material, with its two ends connected to the bracket and the auxiliary layer, respectively.

7. The lighted keyboard of claim 5, wherein, It also includes a cover layer disposed on the second circuit layer and the auxiliary layer, and covering a portion of the upper surface of the substrate.

8. The lighted keyboard of claim 2 or 7, wherein, The auxiliary layer includes a first part and a second part. The cover layer covers the second circuit layer and the first part of the auxiliary layer, and the cover layer exposes the light source and the second part of the auxiliary layer. The second part of the auxiliary layer is directly or indirectly connected to the lower surface of the bracket.

9. The lighted keyboard of claim 8, wherein, The distribution density of the first part of the auxiliary layer is less than the distribution density of the second part of the auxiliary layer.

10. The lighted keyboard of claim 8, wherein, At least one of the first portion and the second portion of the auxiliary layer is in a grid pattern.

11. The lighted keyboard of claim 1 or 5, wherein, The auxiliary layer is a patterned conductor layer, and the auxiliary layer comprises the same material as the second circuit layer.

12. The lighted keyboard of claim 1 or 5, wherein, The auxiliary layer includes a first part and a second part. The first part is disposed below one of the plurality of keycaps, and the second part is disposed below the bracket between two adjacent keycaps.

13. The lighted keyboard of claim 1 or 5, wherein, The light-emitting module further includes a light guide layer and a pattern layer. The light guide layer is disposed between the substrate and the pattern layer. The light guide layer includes holes, and the light source is disposed in the holes. The pattern layer has a patterned light-shielding coating or a patterned reflective coating corresponding to the light source.

14. The lighted keyboard of claim 1 or 5, wherein, The light source includes a chip having a long axis that extends along a direction parallel to the short side of the illuminated keyboard.

15. The lighted keyboard of claim 1 or 5, wherein, The bracket includes a bracket hole located under one of the plurality of keycaps and corresponding to the light source.

16. The lighted keyboard of claim 15, wherein, The light source includes a chip having a long axis that extends parallel to the short side of the illuminated keyboard.

17. The lighted keyboard of claim 1 or 5, wherein, The light source includes two chips, each of which has a long axis, the long axis of one chip being parallel to and side by side with the long axis of the other chip.

18. The lighted keyboard of claim 1 or 5, wherein, The light source includes two chips, each of which has a long axis, and the long axis of one chip is coaxial with the long axis of the other chip.

19. The lighted keyboard of claim 1 or 5, wherein, The light source includes a first chip and a second chip. The first chip has a first short side, and the second chip has a second short side. The first short side and the second short side are adjacent to each other, and the first chip and the second chip have the same polarity at the corresponding first short side and second short side.

20. The lighted keyboard of claim 1 or 5, wherein, The light source comprises two chips with a gap between them, and at least one of the two chips is covered with phosphor.

21. The lighted keyboard of claim 1 or 5, wherein, The second circuit layer includes two wires electrically connected to both sides of the light source, the light source having a long axis, and the two wires extending in a direction parallel to the long axis.

22. A light emitting module characterized in that include: substrate; A backlight circuit layer is disposed on the substrate; An auxiliary layer is disposed on the substrate and is separated from the backlight circuit layer; A light source is disposed on the substrate and electrically connected to the backlight circuit layer; as well as A cover layer is conformally disposed on the backlight circuit layer and the auxiliary layer. The cover layer exposes at least a portion of the auxiliary layer.

23. The light emitting module of claim 22, wherein, The auxiliary layer includes a first part and a second part, the cover layer covers the backlight circuit layer and the first part, and the cover layer exposes the light source and the second part.

24. The light emitting module of claim 23, wherein, At least one of the first part and the second part is in a grid shape, and the second part is correspondingly disposed on the outer edge of the substrate.

25. The light module of claim 22, wherein, It also includes a pattern layer disposed on the cover layer, the pattern layer having an opening at least a portion of the auxiliary layer exposed corresponding to the cover layer, so as to expose at least a portion of the auxiliary layer.

26. The light emitting module of claim 22, wherein, It also includes a pattern layer disposed on the cover layer, the pattern layer having an opening corresponding to the recess of the auxiliary layer and the opening of the substrate.

27. The light emitting module of claim 22, wherein, The cover layer includes a reflective material or a surface coated with white paint, and a black paint coating on the edge corresponding to the substrate.

28. The light-emitting module according to any one of claims 22 to 27, characterized in that, The light source includes a first chip and a second chip, the first chip and the second chip each have two adjacent sides, and the first chip and the second chip have the same polarity at the corresponding adjacent sides.

29. The light emitting module of claim 28, wherein, The light source includes a packaging material that covers the first chip and the second chip.

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