Light guide key structure and electronic device with the same

Abstract

This utility model provides a light-guiding button structure and an electronic device with a button structure, relating to the field of light-guided buttons. The light-guiding button structure includes a housing with a light-transmitting button hole communicating with the inner and outer sides of the housing; a light guide disposed within the light-transmitting button hole and extending to the inner side of the housing; and a switch and an LED, electrically connected to each other and respectively disposed within the inner side of the housing; wherein the light guide is at least partially located within the light area of ​​the LED to guide the light emitted by the LED to the light-transmitting button hole; the movement of the light guide within the light-transmitting button hole drives the movable part of the switch to reciprocate, thereby controlling at least the on / off state of the LED.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of light button technology, and in particular relates to a light guide button structure and an electronic device with a button structure. Background Technology

[0002] In the market, the Switch's integrated button and lighting design typically places the Switch in the center, with LEDs evenly distributed around it. To achieve this design, a semi-transparent or fully transparent light guide ring is created around the opaque button contacts using a two-color injection molding technique. While this design is highly functional, it results in a distinct separation between the buttons and the light guide ring, affecting the overall aesthetics. When the user presses the component consisting of the button and light guide ring, the button activates the Switch, while the light guide ring surrounds the button contacts without directly contacting the Switch. The illuminating LEDs display their lighting effects through the light guide ring. Furthermore, this two-color injection molded light guide ring requires a relatively large space around the button contacts, so the diameter of the button assembly is typically Φ10mm or larger. Utility Model Content

[0003] In view of this, the present invention provides a light guide button structure and an electronic device with a button structure, aiming to reduce the space occupied by the light guide area and the button area, and to weaken the layering of traditional buttons and light guides in appearance.

[0004] The technical solution of this utility model is implemented as follows:

[0005] This utility model provides a light-guiding button structure. The light-guiding button structure includes a housing with a light-transmitting button hole that communicates with the inner and outer sides of the housing; a light guide element disposed within the light-transmitting button hole and extending to the inner side of the housing; and a switch element and an LED bead, electrically connected to each other and respectively disposed within the inner side of the housing; wherein the light guide element is at least partially located within the light area of ​​the LED bead to guide the light emitted by the LED bead to the light-transmitting button hole; the movement of the light guide element within the light-transmitting button hole drives the movable part of the switch element to reciprocate, thereby controlling at least the on / off state of the LED bead.

[0006] This utility model also provides an electronic device with a button structure, which includes a light-guiding button structure. The light-guiding button structure includes a housing with a light-transmitting button hole communicating with the inner and outer sides of the housing; a light guide disposed within the light-transmitting button hole and extending to the inner side of the housing; and a switch and an LED, electrically connected to each other and respectively disposed within the inner side of the housing; wherein the light guide is at least partially located within the light area of ​​the LED to guide the light emitted by the LED to the light-transmitting button hole; the movement of the light guide within the light-transmitting button hole drives the movable part of the switch to reciprocate, thereby controlling at least the on / off state of the LED. Attached Figure Description

[0007] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0008] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of an embodiment of the light guide button structure provided by this utility model;

[0009] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Exploded view;

[0010] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Overall sectional view;

[0011] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of another embodiment of the light guide button structure provided by this utility model;

[0012] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Exploded view;

[0013] Figure 6 for Figure 4 Overall sectional view.

[0014] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0015] 1. Housing; 11. Light-transmitting button hole; 12. Protrusion; 2. Light guide; 21. First end; 211. Notch; 22. Second end; 221. First end face; 23. First stepped surface; 3. Switch; 4. LED bead; 5. Light shield; 51. Inner ring; 511. Second end face; 52. Outer ring; 53. Connecting part; 54. Abutting part; 55. Second stepped surface; 6. Soft light structure; 61. Light-transmitting ink; 62. Light-transmitting top cover; 621. Cover body; 622. Snap-fit ​​part; 7. Circuit board; 8. Rubber pad. Detailed Implementation

[0016] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present utility model.

[0017] It should be noted that if the embodiments of this utility model involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0018] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this utility model involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

[0019] In the market, the Switch's integrated button and lighting design typically places the Switch in the center, with LEDs evenly distributed around it. To achieve this design, a semi-transparent or fully transparent light guide ring is created around the opaque button contacts using a two-color injection molding technique. While this design is highly functional, it results in a distinct separation between the buttons and the light guide ring, affecting the overall aesthetics. When the user presses the component consisting of the button and light guide ring, the button activates the Switch, while the light guide ring surrounds the button contacts without directly contacting the Switch. The illuminating LEDs display their lighting effects through the light guide ring. Furthermore, this two-color injection molded light guide ring requires a relatively large space around the button contacts, so the diameter of the button assembly is typically Φ10mm or larger.

[0020] In view of this, the present invention provides a light guide button structure, which aims to reduce the space occupied by the light guide area and the button area, and to weaken the layering of traditional buttons and light guides in appearance.

[0021] This light-guide button structure is suitable for various electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets, and home appliances.

[0022] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 Or refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The light-guiding button structure includes a housing 1, a light guide 2, a switch 3, and an LED 4. The housing 1 has a light-transmitting button hole 11 that extends through both the inner and outer sides of the housing 1, achieving a seamless connection between the light-transmitting button hole 11 and the housing 1. The light guide 2 is disposed within the light-transmitting button hole 11 and extends into the housing 1; from an external perspective, the light guide 2 may be flush with the light-transmitting button hole 11, or not completely flush.

[0023] Please combine Figure 3 and Figure 6 The switch assembly 3 and the LED bead 4 are housed inside the housing 1 and electrically connected. Specifically, the switch assembly and the LED bead 4 can be fixed on the circuit board 7 respectively to complete the electrical connection. In addition, they can also be directly connected by wires.

[0024] The light guide 2 is at least partially located within the light area of ​​the LED bead 4 to guide the light emitted by the LED bead 4 to the light-transmitting button hole 11. The "light area of ​​the LED bead 4" can be understood as the area that the light can cover when the LED bead 4 emits light. The light guide 2 may be partially located within the light area or may be completely contained within the light area.

[0025] The light guide 2 moves within the light-transmitting button hole 11, driving the movable part of the switch 3 to reciprocate, thereby controlling the on / off state of the LED bead 4. The light guide 2 can move in various ways within the light-transmitting button hole 11, such as linear motion, rotational motion, shaking, oscillation, twisting, etc. The specific movement method is not limited in this embodiment of the invention, as long as it can press and release the movable part of the switch 3.

[0026] The specific implementation principle of this light-guiding button structure is as follows: When the light guide 2 moves within the light-transmitting button hole 11, it applies a force to the movable part of the switch 3. This force causes the movable part of the switch 3 to reciprocate, thereby changing the on / off state of the circuit. When the circuit is closed, the LED bead 4 is energized and emits light, which is effectively guided through the light guide 2 to the light-transmitting button hole 11, thus realizing the lighting function of the button area; when the circuit is open, the LED bead 4 is extinguished and stops emitting light.

[0027] By eliminating the traditional opaque button design, the space required for buttons and light guide functions is reduced, allowing buttons and light guides to share the same space. Moreover, through the combination of the light guide 2 and the light-transmitting button hole 11, the button area presents a uniform surface when not lit, avoiding the obvious layering between opaque buttons and light guide rings in traditional designs.

[0028] In practical applications, when a user presses the light guide 2, the light is transmitted more evenly to the pressing end of the light guide 2, thereby improving the visual effect and operational visibility of the button area. Users can intuitively feel the button's haptic feedback and observe the visual changes caused by the on / off state of the LED 4. This design combines functionality and aesthetics, making it particularly suitable for electronic devices with high space and appearance requirements, such as smartphones, tablets, and home appliances. This approach solves the problems of large space occupation and obvious visual layering inherent in traditional button and light guide designs, thus improving the user experience.

[0029] The light-guiding button structure provided in this embodiment includes a housing 1, a light guide 2, a switch 3, and an LED 4. The housing 1 has a light-transmitting button hole 11, which communicates with the inner and outer sides of the housing 1. The light guide 2 is disposed within the light-transmitting button hole 11 and extends to the inner side of the housing 1. The switch 3 and the LED 4 are electrically connected and respectively disposed within the inner side of the housing 1. At least a portion of the light guide 2 is located within the light area of ​​the LED 4 to guide the light emitted by the LED 4 to the light-transmitting button hole 11. Movement of the light guide 2 within the light-transmitting button hole 11 drives the movable part of the switch 3 to reciprocate, thereby controlling the on / off state of the LED 4. This embodiment of the invention drives the switch 3 to switch using the light guide 2, and by placing at least a portion of the light guide 2 within the light area of ​​the LED 4, it not only controls the switch 3 but also transmits light. This optimizes the space utilization of the button area and significantly improves the overall aesthetics of the structure. Furthermore, by eliminating the traditional opaque buttons, the visual disjointedness caused by the layered structure of buttons and light guides in traditional designs is avoided.

[0030] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 In order to enable users to achieve the reciprocating motion of the switch 3 through a simple pressing operation, the motion trajectory of the light guide 2 has been structurally optimized accordingly.

[0031] Specifically, the light-transmitting button hole 11 (e.g.) Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, the light guide 2 extends along a first direction; the light guide 2 has a first end 21 and a second end 22 opposite to each other in the first direction, the first end 21 being located inside the housing 1, and the second end 22 being located inside the light-transmitting button hole 11; the light guide 2 moves along the first direction to drive the switch 3 to reciprocate. The inner wall of the light-transmitting button hole 11 is equivalent to the limiting hole of the light guide 2. The first direction extends along the first direction. Figure 3 and Figure 6 The dashed line 'a' represents the middle part.

[0032] The specific driving principle of the light guide 2 is as follows: when the light guide 2 moves along the light-transmitting button hole 11 (e.g., Figure 2 and Figure 5When the switch 3 moves linearly in the first direction along the inner wall of the switch 3 (as shown), its first end 21 applies pressure to the movable part of the switch 3. This pressure causes the movable part of the switch 3 to displace in a plane perpendicular to the first direction, thereby triggering a change in the internal mechanical or electronic structure of the switch 3. For example, when the internal mechanical or electronic structure of the switch 3 changes, its state switches between "on" and "off", thereby controlling the on / off state of the LED bead 4. When the LED bead 4 is lit, the light is evenly transmitted to the area of ​​the light-transmitting button hole 11 through the light guide 2, making the button surface present a soft and consistent lighting effect. When the LED bead 4 is turned off, the button area returns to the unlit state, maintaining a simple and unified overall appearance and avoiding the visual fragmentation caused by the layered structure in traditional designs.

[0033] This embodiment of the utility model optimizes the movement trajectory of the light guide 2, enabling users to control the switch 3 with a simple pressing action, thus improving the user's operating experience.

[0034] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 To enable the light guide 2 to more accurately trigger the switch 3 during movement, and to avoid deviation or jamming caused by external forces, a guide structure is added between the light guide 2 and the housing 1. This guide structure can be a protrusion or groove set on the inner wall of the light-transmitting button hole 11, which cooperates with the corresponding structure on the surface of the light guide 2 to achieve precise linear motion guidance.

[0035] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 In order to better guide the light emitted by LED 4 to the light-transmitting button hole 11 (such as...) Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown in the figure, the relative positions of the LED 4 and the light guide 2 have been optimized.

[0036] Specifically, in the first direction, the light-emitting surface of the lamp bead 4 at least partially overlaps with the end face of the first end 21, and the minimum distance between the end face of the first end 21 and the light-emitting surface of the lamp bead 4 is greater than the stroke of the reciprocating motion of the movable part of the switch 3.

[0037] The phrase "in the first direction, the light-emitting surface of the LED 4 at least partially overlaps with the end face of the first end 21" can be understood as follows: in the first direction, the projection of the light-emitting surface of the LED 4 and the projection of the end face of the first end 21 overlap; or it can be understood as there is a certain intersection between the light-emitting surface of the LED 4 and the end face of the first end 21 of the light guide 2 in the first direction. Therefore, to make the light enter the light guide 2 more efficiently and reduce light loss, a high degree of overlap can be formed between the light-emitting surface of the LED 4 and the end face of the first end 21. In specific implementation, the light-emitting surface of the LED 4 can be completely aligned with the end face of the first end 21. This results in a more regular path for the light to propagate through total internal reflection within the light guide 2, and ultimately, more uniform light emitted from the second end 22 or the surface of the light guide 2. However, if the degree of overlap between the light-emitting surface of the LED 4 and the end face of the first end 21 is low, it may lead to disordered reflection paths within the light guide 2, resulting in localized bright spots or dark areas.

[0038] Meanwhile, the minimum distance between the end face of the first end 21 and the light-emitting surface of the lamp bead 4 is designed to be greater than the travel distance of the moving part of the switch 3. This design ensures that the first end 21 will not touch the lamp bead 4 during the reciprocating motion of the switch 3. This avoids the problem of light source damage or light path obstruction caused by mechanical movement.

[0039] After optimizing the relative positions of the LED bead 4 and the light guide 2 as described above, the light propagation principle of the LED bead 4 is as follows: the light emitted by the LED bead 4 first enters the first end 21 face of the light guide 2 through its light-emitting surface. Since there is an overlapping area between the first end 21 face and the light-emitting surface of the LED bead 4, at least part of the light can be efficiently coupled into the interior of the light guide 2. After entering the light guide 2, the light propagates within it by total internal reflection, and is conducted along the extension direction of the light guide 2 towards the second end 22, until it reaches the second end 22 or its surface.

[0040] This embodiment of the invention optimizes the relative positions of the LED bead 4 and the light guide 2, thereby enabling efficient light transmission while avoiding the influence of mechanical movement on the light source, thus improving light utilization efficiency and structural reliability.

[0041] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 To further enhance the light-capturing ability of the light guide 2, the first end 21 of the light guide 2 is designed as a concave structure with a certain curvature. This concave structure can better concentrate the light emitted by the LED bead 4 and guide it into the interior of the light guide 2, improving light utilization. At the same time, the material of the light guide 2 can be selected to have high light transmittance, such as polycarbonate (PC) or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), to minimize light attenuation.

[0042] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 In order to accommodate the light-transmitting button hole 11 (such as...) Figure 2 and Figure 5 (As shown) Due to the limited aperture and the large size of the switch 3 and the LED 4, the first end 21 of the light guide 2 is enlarged, or in other words, the second end 22 is reduced.

[0043] Specifically, in the first direction, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first end 21 is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second end 22, so that a first stepped surface 23 is formed between the first end 21 and the second end 22. Here, "the cross-sectional area of ​​the first end 21 is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second end 22" can be understood as the first end 21 having a larger projected area on a plane perpendicular to the first direction than the second end 22 having a larger projected area on the same plane. This results in the first end 21 having a larger cross-sectional dimension than the second end 22, thereby forming the first stepped surface 23 between the first end 21 and the second end 22.

[0044] Because the first end 21 has a larger cross-sectional area, it can more fully cover the light-emitting surface of the LED bead 4, thereby increasing the chance of light entering the light guide 2. The second end 22, with its smaller cross-sectional area, can accommodate the light-transmitting button hole 11 (such as...). Figure 2 and Figure 5 The size constraints (as shown) make the overall structure more compact. The formation of the first step surface 23 not only achieves a smooth transition between the two ends, but also reflects and guides light to a certain extent, further improving the efficiency of light utilization.

[0045] This utility model embodiment expands the first end 21 and shrinks the second end 22 of the light guide 2, thereby achieving efficient light transmission while miniaturizing and compacting the structure, providing a more flexible solution for button design of electronic devices.

[0046] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 To reduce potential light loss due to the presence of the first step surface 23, special optical treatments can be applied to its surface. For example, polishing can be used to make the step surface smoother, or a highly reflective material can be coated on its surface to enhance its light reflection capability. Through these measures, light can be effectively guided to the second end 22 of the light guide 2 when passing through the first step surface 23, instead of being absorbed or scattered.

[0047] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 To minimize the space occupied by the light guide 2 and the switch 3 within the housing 1, the light guide 2 was optimized. Specifically, the movable part of the switch 3 is positioned relative to the LED bead 4 towards the light-transmitting button hole 11 (e.g., Figure 2 and Figure 5 (As shown) The light guide 2 is provided with a notch 211 at its end to accommodate the switch 3.

[0048] This embodiment of the utility model provides a notch 211 at the end of the light guide 2 (as shown in the figure). Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, this reduces spatial conflict between the light guide 2 and the switch 3. Furthermore, by embedding the movable part of the switch 3 into the notch 211 of the light guide 2, the overall structure volume can be significantly reduced while ensuring functional integrity, freeing up more space for the layout of other components inside the electronic device.

[0049] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 In order to enhance the focusing effect of the light inside the light guide 2, so that the light emitted from the lamp bead 4 can be concentrated in the light guide column, and when viewed from the outside of the housing 1, the light only comes out from the second end face 511 of the light guide 2, a light shield 5 is added.

[0050] Specifically, the light-shielding element 5 is arranged in a ring around the outer peripheral wall of the light guide element 2 to block and / or reflect the light emitted from the outer peripheral wall of the light guide element 2.

[0051] The specific implementation principle of the light-shielding component 5 is as follows: By surrounding the outer peripheral wall of the light guide component 2, the light-shielding component 5 can effectively block light from escaping from the side of the light guide component 2, making the propagation of light inside the light guide component 2 more regular. Consequently, the light emitted from the second end face 511 of the light guide component 2 has higher uniformity and brightness. Because the surface of the light-shielding component 5 is specially treated and possesses high reflectivity, it can guide light that might otherwise be scattered or lost back into the light guide component 2. In this way, the propagation path of light in the light guide component 2 is more concentrated, reducing unnecessary light loss and improving light utilization efficiency.

[0052] This embodiment of the invention, by adding a light-shielding component 5 to the outer peripheral wall of the light guide component 2, makes the light emission effect of the button area purer and more uniform, optimizes the consistency of the overall appearance, and improves the overall light effect.

[0053] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 In order to further improve the overall light effect, the specific structure of the light-shielding component 5 has been optimized.

[0054] Specifically, the light-shielding member 5 includes an inner ring portion 51, an outer ring portion 52, and a connecting portion 53. The inner ring portion 51 is attached to the outer peripheral wall of the light guide member 2 to block the light emitted from the outer peripheral wall of the light guide member 2; the outer ring portion 52 is arranged around the inner ring portion 51, the switch member 3, and the lamp bead 4 to receive the light emitted by the lamp bead 4 and reflect the light to the light guide member 2; the connecting portion 53 connects the inner ring portion 51 and the outer ring portion 52; wherein, the outer ring portion 52 abuts against the inner wall of the housing 1.

[0055] The optimized light-shielding component 5 operates on the following principle: the outer ring 52 abuts against the inner wall of the housing 1, forming a stable support structure, and its surface undergoes special treatment to achieve high reflectivity. When the light emitted by the LED 4 diffuses outward, the outer ring 52 reflects some of the light back into the light guide 2, thereby further reducing light loss. The inner ring 51 fits tightly against the outer peripheral wall of the light guide 2, effectively blocking light from escaping from the side of the light guide 2 and ensuring that the light is concentrated and propagates within the light guide 2. The connecting portion 53 serves as a transition, firmly connecting the inner ring 51 and the outer ring 52 into a single unit while maintaining the compactness of the overall structure.

[0056] This embodiment of the invention further improves the focusing effect and utilization efficiency of light by optimizing the structural design of the light-shielding component 5, while ensuring the compactness and reliability of the overall structure.

[0057] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 In order to improve the stability of the contact between the abutting part and the housing 1, an abutting part 54 is added to the light shielding part 5.

[0058] Specifically, the abutment portion 54 starts from one end of the outer ring portion 52 near the housing 1 and extends along the inner wall of the housing 1 towards the outer side and / or inner side of the outer ring portion 52. The extension direction of the abutment portion 54 can be adjusted according to actual needs to achieve a tight fit with different positions inside the housing 1.

[0059] The extension of the abutment portion 54 increases the contact area between the abutment and the inner wall of the housing 1, allowing the abutment to be more stably fixed to the inner wall of the housing 1. When the user applies pressure to the light-transmitting button hole 11, the light guide 2 and the light shield 5 will move together. During the movement, the abutment portion 54 of the light shield 5 always maintains good contact with the inner wall of the housing 1, effectively preventing displacement caused by vibration or external force interference, and dispersing the concentrated force of the abutment on the housing 1.

[0060] This embodiment of the invention further enhances the stability and reliability of the overall structure by adding an abutment portion 54 to the light-shielding member 5. Because the contact area between the abutment portion 54 and the inner wall of the housing 1 is increased, not only is the fixing effect of the light-shielding member 5 improved, but the risk of displacement caused by external vibration or pressing operations is also reduced.

[0061] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 To reduce wear between the abutment part 54 and the inner wall of the housing 1, a rubber pad 8 is added between the abutment part 54 and the inner wall of the housing 1. The rubber pad 8 not only effectively alleviates friction between the abutment part 54 and the inner wall of the housing 1, but also absorbs external impact forces to a certain extent, thereby extending the service life of the overall structure. The rubber pad 8 can be made of a highly elastic material, and its thickness and hardness can be adjusted according to actual usage requirements to achieve the best cushioning and shock absorption effect.

[0062] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 To further enhance the performance and appearance of the light shield 5, a design using TPU material with added pearlescent powder is employed. TPU material boasts excellent flexibility and wear resistance, effectively accommodating the relative movement between the light guide 2 and the housing 1, while reducing wear issues caused by long-term use. The addition of pearlescent powder not only gives the light shield 5 a unique visual texture but also produces a soft luster under light, further optimizing the overall aesthetics of the button area.

[0063] Specifically, the high elasticity of TPU material allows the light-shielding component 5 to undergo slight deformation under stress, thereby better conforming to the outer peripheral wall of the light guide component 2 and the inner wall of the housing 1. This tight fit helps to further reduce the possibility of light escaping from the gap between the light-shielding component 5 and the light guide component 2, thus improving the focusing effect and propagation efficiency of the light. In addition, TPU material itself has certain anti-aging properties, and can maintain good physical properties and appearance even after long-term use.

[0064] The introduction of pearlescent powder adds a delicate luster to the light-shielding component 5. When the LED bead 4 is lit, the light is transmitted to the surface of the light-shielding component 5 through the light guide 2. The pearlescent powder reflects some of the light, creating a uniform and soft halo effect. This design not only enhances the visual appeal of the button area but also improves the overall light performance without increasing energy consumption. Furthermore, the particle size and distribution density of the pearlescent powder can be adjusted according to actual needs to achieve different gloss effects and light reflection characteristics.

[0065] This utility model embodiment, by using TPU material and adding pearlescent powder in the light-shielding component 5, not only improves the functionality of the light-shielding component 5, but also further optimizes its appearance, providing a solution for the button design of electronic devices that combines practicality and aesthetics.

[0066] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 To eliminate the separation between the second end 22 of the light guide 2 and the light shield 5, a corresponding light-diffusing structure 6 is added. Here, "separation" can be understood as a noticeable dividing line or shadow that may appear at the connection between the second end 22 of the light guide 2 and the light shield 5. Such separation may affect the overall visual effect of the button area and disrupt the consistency of light transmission.

[0067] Specifically, the light guide 2 and the light shield 5 extend into the housing 1 from the light-transmitting button hole 11; within the light-transmitting button hole 11, the first end face 221 of the light guide 2 and the second end face 511 of the light shield 5 are flush with each other ("flush" can be understood as being on the same plane without significant height difference or misalignment. The "flush" surface can be a plane or a curved surface); the light guide button structure also includes a soft light structure 6, which covers the first end face 221 and the second end face 511.

[0068] The specific implementation principle of the soft light structure 6 is as follows: By covering the first end face 221 of the light guide 2 and the second end face 511 of the light shield 5, the soft light structure 6 can effectively bridge the boundary between the two, thereby eliminating shadows or uneven light effects caused by the connection. Specifically, the soft light structure 6 is made of a material with high light transmittance and diffusion properties, such as a frosted optical film or microstructure coating. When light is transmitted from the light guide 2 to its first end face 221, the soft light structure 6 will uniformly scatter the received light, making the light appear more natural and softer in the transition area between the light shield 5 and the light guide 2.

[0069] Furthermore, the soft light structure 6 can be designed as a multi-layered composite to further enhance the uniformity of light diffusion, depending on actual needs. For example, the bottom layer can be made of a highly transparent material to ensure maximum light transmittance, while the surface layer can have a fine granular texture or uneven structure to enhance the diffuse reflection effect of light. This multi-layered design not only optimizes the visual effect but also avoids the problem of local bright spots or dark areas caused by the insufficient properties of a single material.

[0070] This embodiment of the utility model significantly improves the overall visual consistency of the button area by adding a soft light structure 6, making the light transmission smoother and without obvious boundaries, while enhancing the product's aesthetics and user experience.

[0071] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 6The light-diffusing structure 6 is made of light-transmitting ink 61. Specifically, the light-transmitting ink 61 is uniformly applied to the first end face 221 of the light guide 2 and the second end face 511 of the light-shielding member 5 via screen printing or other coating processes. Its unique optical properties enable more uniform light diffusion when light passes through the light-diffusing structure 6, while maintaining high light transmittance. The thickness and particle distribution of the light-transmitting ink 61 can be adjusted according to actual needs to balance light transmittance and diffusion effect.

[0072] This embodiment of the utility model simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces costs by using translucent ink 61 as the soft light structure 6, thereby eliminating printing defects and enhancing applicability.

[0073] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 The soft light structure 6 is a light-transmitting top cover 62. The specific implementation of the light-transmitting top cover 62 is as follows: the light-transmitting top cover 62 completely covers the first end face 221 of the light guide 2 and the second end face 511 of the light shield 5, forming a smooth and continuous optical transition area. The light-transmitting top cover 62 is made of a high-transmittance material and has specific microstructures, such as microprism arrays or frosted textures, on its inner or outer surface to achieve uniform light diffusion and a soft transition. Its specific implementation principle is as follows: when light is transmitted from the light guide 2 to the first end face 221, the light-transmitting top cover 62 can redistribute the received light. Through its internal microstructure design, light undergoes multiple refractions and scatterings inside the top cover, thereby eliminating the boundary line or shadow problem between the light guide 2 and the light shield 5. Furthermore, the thickness and material of the light-transmitting top cover 62 can be adjusted according to actual needs to balance the light transmittance and diffusion effect.

[0074] The design of the translucent top cover 62 not only enhances the overall visual consistency of the button area but also strengthens the durability and reliability of the structure. Its integrated cover design effectively prevents external dust or liquids from entering the connection area between the light guide 2 and the light shield 5, thereby extending the product's lifespan. Furthermore, the appearance of the translucent top cover 62 can be further optimized through material selection and surface treatment, enabling it to achieve a higher level of aesthetics while meeting functional requirements.

[0075] This embodiment of the utility model uses a light-transmitting top cover 62 as a soft light structure 6, which achieves a natural transition in light transmission and enhances the visual effect.

[0076] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 In order to achieve stable installation of the light-transmitting top cover, the light-transmitting top cover 62, the light-shielding component 5 and the housing 1 were configured accordingly.

[0077] The specific configuration is as follows: the outer wall of the light-shielding member 5 has a second stepped surface 55 facing away from the switch member 3; the housing 1 extends inward around the outer edge of the light-transmitting button hole 11 to form a protrusion 12; the light-transmitting top cover 62 includes a cover body 621 and a snap-fit ​​part 622. The cover body 621 covers the first end face 221 of the light guide member 2 and the second end face 511 of the light-shielding member 5; the snap-fit ​​part 622 is connected to the cover body 621 and snaps between the second stepped surface 55 and the protrusion 12.

[0078] During installation, the cover 621 of the light-transmitting top cover 62 is abutted against the first end face 221 of the light guide 2 and the second end face 511 of the light shield 5, ensuring a tight fit between the cover and the contact surfaces of both. A stable snap-fit ​​structure is formed between the second stepped surface 55 of the light shield 5 and the protrusion 12 of the housing 1, which is used to snap the snap-fit ​​part 622 of the light-transmitting top cover 62. This design utilizes the space constraint between the second stepped surface 55 and the protrusion 12, allowing the light-transmitting top cover 62 to be firmly fixed in place after installation, and it is not easy to be displaced due to external vibration or pressing operations.

[0079] Through the above-described configuration, this embodiment of the utility model not only achieves stable installation of the light-transmitting top cover 62, but also improves the compactness of the structure.

[0080] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 The light-guiding button structure also includes a circuit board 7. The switch 3 and the LED 4 are respectively disposed on the circuit board 7 and are electrically connected to the circuit board 7.

[0081] In practice, circuit board 7 is connected to an external power source via wires, thereby providing stable power support for switch 3 and LED beads 4. Switch 3 transmits a trigger signal to circuit board 7 via a press, which in turn controls the on or off state of LED beads 4.

[0082] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 To further enhance the functionality of circuit board 7, an intelligent control module was added. This module, integrated into circuit board 7, enables precise control of the brightness, flashing frequency, and light emission mode of LED beads 4. For example, users can adjust the lighting effects of the button area using preset programs to suit different usage scenarios or personalized needs. The intelligent control module can also detect ambient light intensity through sensors and automatically adjust the brightness of LED beads 4, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining visual quality.

[0083] This embodiment of the utility model enhances the functional versatility of the light guide button structure by adding an intelligent control module to the circuit board.

[0084] This utility model embodiment also provides an electronic device for a button structure. The electronic device includes the light-guided button structure provided in any of the above embodiments. The electronic device can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, or home appliance, etc. By adopting the above-described light-guided button structure, the button area of ​​the electronic device can achieve a more uniform and softer lighting effect, while improving the overall consistency and aesthetics. Furthermore, because the light-guided button structure emphasizes compactness and stability in its design, the utilization rate of the internal space of the electronic device is further optimized, providing more possibilities for the layout of other functional components.

[0085] The above description is merely an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model and does not limit the patent scope of the present utility model. Any equivalent structural transformations made based on the technical concept of the present utility model and the contents of the present utility model specification and drawings, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A light-guiding button structure, characterized in that, include: The housing is provided with a light-transmitting button hole, which is connected to the inner and outer sides of the housing; A light guide element is disposed within the light-transmitting button hole and extends to the inner side of the housing; and, The switch and the LED are electrically connected to each other and are respectively disposed on the inner side of the housing; The light guide is located at least partially within the light area of ​​the LED to guide the light emitted by the LED to the light-transmitting button hole; the movement of the light guide within the light-transmitting button hole can drive the movable part of the switch to reciprocate, thereby controlling at least the on / off state of the LED.

2. The light guide button structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light-transmitting button hole extends along a first direction; the light guide has a first end and a second end opposite to each other in the first direction, the first end being located inside the housing and the second end being located inside the light-transmitting button hole; The light guide moves along the first direction to drive the switch to reciprocate.

3. The light guide button structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, In the first direction, the light-emitting surface of the lamp bead at least partially overlaps with the end face of the first end, and the minimum distance between the end face of the first end and the light-emitting surface of the lamp bead is greater than the travel of the reciprocating motion of the movable part of the switch.

4. The light guide button structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, In a first direction, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first end is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second end, so that a first stepped surface is formed between the first end and the second end.

5. The light guide button structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The movable part of the switch component protrudes relative to the LED bead toward the light-transmitting button hole; The light guide has a notch at its end to accommodate the switch.

6. The light guide button structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a light-shielding element, which is arranged around the outer peripheral wall of the light guide to block and / or reflect light emitted from the outer peripheral wall of the light guide.

7. The light guide button structure according to claim 6, characterized in that, The light-shielding component includes: The inner ring is attached to the outer peripheral wall of the light guide to block the light emitted from the outer peripheral wall of the light guide; An outer ring portion, surrounding the inner ring portion, the switching element, and the lamp bead, receives light emitted by the lamp bead and reflects it to the light guide element; and, A connecting portion, connecting the inner ring portion and the outer ring portion; The outer ring portion abuts against the inner wall of the housing.

8. The light-guiding button structure according to claim 6, characterized in that, The light guide and the light shield extend into the housing from the light-transmitting button hole; inside the light-transmitting button hole, the first end face of the light guide and the second end face of the light shield are flush with each other; the light guide button structure also includes a soft light structure, which covers the first end face and the second end face. The soft light structure includes a light-transmitting ink layer or a light-transmitting top cover.

9. The light guide button structure according to claim 8, characterized in that, The outer wall of the light-shielding member has a second stepped surface that is away from the switch member; the housing extends inward around the outer edge of the light-transmitting button hole to form a protrusion; The light-transmitting top cover includes: A cover is provided on the first end face of the light guide and the second end face of the light shield; The snap-fit ​​portion is connected to the cover and snaps between the second stepped surface and the protrusion.

10. An electronic device having a button structure, characterized in that, Includes the light-guiding button structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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