Input device and electronic device

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an input device and an electronic device, the input device can include: a plurality of key structures and a target mechanism, the key structure includes: a first key cap and a reset member, the reset force of the reset member can act on the first key cap; the target mechanism is connected with the reset members of the plurality of key structures, the target mechanism has a switchable first state and a second state; in the case of the target mechanism being in the first state, the force of the reset member acting on the first key cap is a first force; in the case of the target mechanism being in the second state, the force of the reset member acting on the first key cap is a second force, and the second force is different from the first force.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] When a button is pressed, it can trigger its corresponding function.

[0003] In related technologies, the pressure applied to each button is fixed, which fails to meet the usage requirements of different users. Utility Model Content

[0004] This disclosure provides an input device and an electronic device, the technical solution of which is as follows:

[0005] In a first aspect, this disclosure provides an input device, which may include: a plurality of key structures and a target mechanism. The key structure includes: a first keycap and a reset member, wherein the reset force of the reset member is capable of acting on the first keycap. The target mechanism is connected to the reset member of the plurality of key structures, and the target mechanism has a switchable first state and a second state. When the target mechanism is in the first state, the force exerted by the reset member on the first keycap is a first force. When the target mechanism is in the second state, the force exerted by the reset member on the first keycap is a second force, wherein the second force is different from the first force.

[0006] In some embodiments, the target mechanism has multiple components; the input device includes multiple input areas, each input area is provided with multiple button structures, different input areas are connected to different target mechanisms, and the states of the target mechanisms in different input areas are consistent or inconsistent.

[0007] In some embodiments, the target mechanism includes an input button, the input button including a second keycap, the orientation of the second keycap being the same as or different from that of the first keycap, and the input button having two states that can be switched between each other to control the target mechanism to be in the first state or the second state.

[0008] In some embodiments, the input device may include an indication area disposed on the input device for indicating the status of the target mechanism.

[0009] In some embodiments, when the target mechanism is in a first state, the first keycap is at a first height; when the target mechanism is in a second state, the first keycap is at a second height, the second height being the same as or different from the first height.

[0010] In some embodiments, the input device may include: a housing and a carrier, the housing having a supporting surface; the carrier having a first surface and a second surface facing away from each other, the first surface for supporting a plurality of button structures, the second surface opposite to the supporting surface, and forming a sliding space between the second surface and the supporting surface, the thickness of the sliding space gradually decreasing along a first direction; wherein, the target mechanism includes: a sliding member disposed in the sliding space, wherein when the sliding member slides along the first direction, the target mechanism switches from a first state to a second state; and when the sliding member slides along a second direction opposite to the first direction, the target mechanism switches from the second state to the first state.

[0011] In some embodiments, the target mechanism includes: a first lead screw, a second lead screw, a drive shaft, and a worm gear. The first lead screw extends along the first direction, passes through the sliding member, and is threadedly engaged with the sliding member. The second lead screw extends along the first direction, passes through the sliding member, and is threadedly engaged with the sliding member. The two ends of the drive shaft are respectively engaged with the first lead screw and the second lead screw. The worm gear engages with a turbine on the drive shaft and partially exposes the input device. When the worm gear is subjected to a rotational force, the drive shaft drives the first lead screw and the second lead screw to rotate, thereby driving the sliding member to slide along the first direction or the second direction.

[0012] In some embodiments, the target mechanism includes: a first limiting member and a second limiting member, wherein the first limiting member is disposed in the sliding space and is opposite to one end of the sliding member along the first direction, and the second limiting member is disposed in the sliding space and is opposite to the other end of the sliding member along the first direction; wherein, when the sliding member slides and abuts against either the first limiting member or the second limiting member, the sliding member is still threadedly engaged with the first lead screw and the second lead screw.

[0013] In some embodiments, the target mechanism includes a cover plate and a knob. The orthogonal projection of the cover plate onto the support surface at least covers the drive shaft. The cover plate abuts against the first lead screw, the second lead screw, and the drive shaft. The cover plate is provided with a through hole for the worm gear at a position corresponding to the worm gear. The knob is located on the side of the cover plate facing away from the support surface, connected to the worm gear, and used to receive the rotational force.

[0014] Secondly, this disclosure provides an electronic device, which may include: at least one display device and an input device, wherein the input device is signal-connected to the display device and is used to input information to change the display content of the display device, the input device including: a plurality of key structures and a target mechanism, the key structure including: a first keycap and a reset member, the reset force of the reset member being capable of acting on the first keycap; the target mechanism is connected to the reset member of the plurality of key structures, the target mechanism having a switchable first state and a second state; when the target mechanism is in the first state, the force of the reset member acting on the first keycap is a first force; when the target mechanism is in the second state, the force of the reset member acting on the first keycap is a second force, the second force being different from the first force.

[0015] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this disclosure. In order to better understand the technical means of this disclosure and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, the preferred embodiments of this disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in this disclosure 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 disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the input device provided in this disclosure;

[0018] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the input device provided in this disclosure Figure 1 ;

[0019] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the input device provided in this disclosure Figure 2 ;

[0020] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of a partial structure of the input device provided in this disclosure Figure 1 ;

[0021] Figure 5 A cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the input device provided in this disclosure;

[0022] Figure 6 A partially enlarged structural diagram of the input device provided in this disclosure. Figure 1 ;

[0023] Figure 7A partially enlarged structural diagram of the input device provided in this disclosure. Figure 2 ;

[0024] Figure 8 A partially exploded structural diagram of the input device provided in this disclosure;

[0025] Figure 9 Schematic diagram of a partial structure of the input device provided in this disclosure Figure 2 .

[0026] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0027] 100. Input device; 10. Key structure; 11. First keycap; 111. Pressing surface; 12. Reset component; 13. Limiting seat; 20. Target mechanism; 21. Input key; 211. Second keycap; 22. Sliding component; 23. First lead screw; 24. Second lead screw; 25. Drive shaft; 26. Worm gear; 27. First limiting component; 28. Second limiting component; 29. ​​Cover plate; 291. Through hole; 292. Protrusion; 30. Housing; 31. Supporting surface; 32. Sliding space; 40. Bearing component; 41. First surface; 411. Limiting recess; 42. Second surface; 50. Fixing plate; 60. Circuit board. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The embodiments of this disclosure will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The detailed description of the embodiments and the accompanying drawings are used to illustrate the principles of this disclosure by way of example, but should not be used to limit the scope of this disclosure. This disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

[0029] These embodiments are provided to make the disclosure thorough and complete, and to fully express the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement of components and steps, material composition, numerical expressions, and values ​​set forth in these embodiments should be interpreted as exemplary only and not as limiting.

[0030] It should be noted that, in the description of this disclosure, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more; the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationship, are only for the convenience of describing this disclosure and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this disclosure. When the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0031] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different parts. "Vertical" is not strictly vertical, but within the permissible margin of error. "Parallel" is not strictly parallel, but within the permissible margin of error. Terms such as "including" or "contains" mean that the element preceding the word encompasses the element listed after the word, and do not exclude the possibility of encompassing other elements as well.

[0032] It should also be noted that, in the description of this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "connected," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this disclosure depending on the specific circumstances. When a particular device is described as being located between a first device and a second device, an intermediary device may or may not be present between the particular device and the first or second device.

[0033] All terms used in this disclosure have the same meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains, unless otherwise specifically defined. It should also be understood that terms defined in general dictionaries should be interpreted as having meanings consistent with their meanings in the context of the relevant art, and not as idealized or highly formalized, unless expressly defined herein.

[0034] Techniques, methods, and equipment known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, they should be considered part of the specification.

[0035] When a button is pressed, it can trigger its corresponding function.

[0036] In related technologies, the pressure applied to each button is fixed, which fails to meet the usage requirements of different users.

[0037] This disclosure relates to an input device, which may include multiple button structures and a target mechanism. The button structures may include a first keycap and a reset member. When an external force is applied to the first keycap, the first keycap can be displaced and trigger a corresponding function. During this displacement, the first keycap can simultaneously push the reset member to deform. When the external force applied to the first keycap is removed, the reset member can restore its deformation and provide a reset force to the first keycap, thereby driving the first keycap back to its position before the external force was applied. The target mechanism can be connected to the reset members of the multiple button structures and can... The mechanism can switch between a first state and a second state. In different states, the target mechanism can cause the reset component to apply different forces to the corresponding first keycap. This force can persist in three stages: before the first keycap is pressed, during the pressing process, and after the pressing process. This allows the reset component to have a pre-compression amount. The pre-compression amount of the reset component varies depending on the target mechanism's state, thus changing the pressing force required to act on the first keycap and trigger the corresponding function. This allows for adjustment of the pressing force of the key structure, thereby meeting user requirements. Since one target mechanism can connect to the reset components of multiple key structures simultaneously, the pressing force of multiple key structures can be adjusted through the state adjustment of the same target mechanism. This not only simplifies operation but also improves assembly efficiency and the overall integration of the structure.

[0038] First aspect

[0039] This disclosure provides an input device 100, see [link to previous document]. Figures 1 to 9 The input device 100 may include: a plurality of key structures 10 and a target mechanism 20. The key structure 10 may include: a first keycap 11 and a reset member 12. The reset force of the reset member 12 can act on the first keycap 11. The target mechanism 20 may be connected to the reset members 12 of the plurality of key structures 10. The target mechanism 20 may have a switchable first state and a second state. When the target mechanism 20 is in the first state, the force of the reset member 12 acting on the first keycap 11 may be a first force. When the target mechanism 20 is in the second state, the force of the reset member 12 acting on the first keycap 11 may be a second force. The second force may be different from the first force.

[0040] The input device 100 can be a keyboard, which can be connected to the display signal via wired or wireless means, and after the signal connection, the content displayed on the display can be changed by the information input through the input device 100; it can also be part of an electronic device (such as a laptop computer, audio and video player, etc.), after the information is input through the input device 100, the electronic device can perform the operation corresponding to the information, such as changing the content displayed on the display device of the laptop computer, changing the content played by the audio and video player, etc.

[0041] The key structure 10 may include a first keycap 11 and a reset member 12. The first keycap 11 may have a pressing surface 111. When the pressing surface 111 is subjected to a pressing force, the first keycap 11 may displace along the direction of the pressing force to trigger the function corresponding to the key structure 10. During the displacement of the first keycap 11, the reset member 12 may deform so that when the pressing force applied to the first keycap 11 is removed, the reset member 12 may provide a reset force to the first keycap 11, allowing the first keycap 11 to return to its position before the pressing force was applied, thus preparing for the next pressing and triggering of the corresponding function of the key structure 10. The reset member 12 may be an elastic element made of materials such as silicone, rubber, or metal. The elastic element may undergo reversible deformation after being pushed by the first keycap 11 during displacement, so that when the pressing force on the first keycap 11 is removed, the elastic element may return to its original shape to provide a reset force to the first keycap 11. The functions of the first keycap 11 in different key structures 10 after being triggered can be different. In different key structures 10, the settings of the first keycap 11 in terms of shape, material, size and other attributes can be the same or different. The settings of the reset component 12 in terms of shape, material, size and other attributes can be the same or different. In this way, the restrictions on raw materials can be reduced.

[0042] The target mechanism 20 can be connected to the reset member 12 of multiple key structures 10. The target mechanism 20 has a first state and a second state that can be switched between each other. In different states, the target mechanism 20 can make the reset member 12 continuously provide different forces to the corresponding first keycap 11, so that the pressing force required to act on the first keycap 11 and trigger the corresponding function also changes accordingly, thereby realizing the adjustment of the pressing force of the key structure 10.

[0043] See one example. Figures 1 to 9The input device 100 may be a keyboard, which may include: a plurality of key structures 10 and a target mechanism 20. Each key structure 10 may include: a first keycap 11 and a reset member 12 located below the first keycap 11 and corresponding to the first keycap 11. The reset force of the reset member 12 can act on the corresponding first keycap 11 so that when the downward pressing force applied to the first keycap 11 is removed, the first keycap 11 can return to the position before the pressing force was applied. The target mechanism 20 may be located below the plurality of key structures 10 and connected to the reset members 12 of the plurality of key structures 10, and may have a switchable first state and a second state. When the target mechanism 20 is in the first state, the upward force of the reset member 12 acting on the first keycap 11 may be a first force. When the target mechanism 20 is in the second state, the upward force of the reset member 12 acting on the first keycap 11 may be a second force, and the second force may be greater than the first force. Here, under the first force, the reset member 12 can have a first pre-compression amount and a first residual compression amount, so that when a first pressing force is applied to the first keycap 11, the function corresponding to the first keycap 11 can be triggered; under the second force, the reset member 12 can have a second residual compression amount greater than the first pre-compression amount and a second residual compression amount less than the first residual compression amount, so that when a second pressing force is applied to the first keycap 11, the function corresponding to the first keycap 11 can be triggered; since the first residual compression amount is greater than the second residual compression amount, the reset member 12 is more easily... The first keycap 11 is easily deformed, and at this time, the pushing force of the first keycap 11 on the reset member 12 is small, which makes the first pressing force applied to the first keycap 11 small. However, at the second remaining compression amount, the reset member 12 is more difficult to deform, and at this time, the pushing force of the first keycap 11 on the reset member 12 is large, which makes the second pressing force applied to the first keycap 11 large, and the second pressing force is greater than the first pressing force. Moreover, since the target mechanism 20 makes the reset member 12 provide an upward force to the first keycap 11, while the pressing force applied to the first keycap 11 is downward, the stroke of the first keycap 11 can remain unchanged when the pressing force changes.

[0044] In this embodiment, the input device 100 may include multiple key structures 10 and a target mechanism 20. The key structure 10 may include a first keycap 11 and a reset member 12. When the first keycap 11 is subjected to a pressing force, the first keycap 11 can be displaced and trigger the corresponding function. At the same time, the reset member 12 will also deform synchronously so that after the external force on the first keycap 11 is removed, the reset member 12 can restore its deformation to provide a reset force to the first keycap 11, so that the first keycap 11 can return to its position before being pressed. The target mechanism 20 is connected to the reset members 12 of the multiple key structures 10 and can switch between two states (such as the first state and the second state). In different states, the target mechanism 20 can change the pre-compression amount of the reset member 12, thereby changing the pressing force required to trigger the function of the key structure 10. In this way, the pressing force of the key structure 10 can be adjusted to meet the usage requirements of different users. One target mechanism 20 can simultaneously connect to and control the pre-compression of the reset components 12 of multiple button structures 10. Therefore, by adjusting the state of the target mechanism 20, the pressing force of multiple button structures 10 can be adjusted synchronously. This solution is not only simple to operate, but also improves the assembly efficiency and integration level of the overall structure of the input device 100.

[0045] During typing, the key structure 10 with high pressing force can reduce accidental touches or repeated inputs, and the high pressing force allows users to feel clear feedback; during gaming, the key structure 10 with low pressing force can improve response speed; therefore, the pressing force of the key structure 10 can be adjusted to adapt to different usage scenarios.

[0046] In some embodiments, the target mechanism 20 may have multiple components; the input device 100 may include multiple input areas, each input area may be provided with multiple button structures 10, different input areas may be connected to different target mechanisms 20, and the states of the target mechanisms 20 in different input areas may be consistent or inconsistent.

[0047] In other words, multiple input areas can be set on the input device 100, each input area can be equipped with multiple button structures 10, and the pressing pressure of each input area can be adjusted and controlled by a target mechanism 20. The pressing pressure of different input areas can be made the same or different by controlling the state of the target mechanism 20 of different input areas respectively. Among them, when the structure of the button structure 10 in different input areas is the same, the mechanism of the target mechanism 20 is the same, and the target mechanism 20 in different input areas is in the same state, the pressing pressure of the button structure 10 in different input areas can tend to be the same. When at least one of the three factors of the structure of the button structure 10, the mechanism of the target mechanism 20, and the state of the target mechanism 20 in different input areas is different, the pressing pressure of different input areas can be made the same or different.

[0048] In one example, the input device 100 may include four input areas: a main key area, an auxiliary key area, a function key area, and an editing key area. The main key area may include at least a key structure 10 for the 26 letters from A to Z. The auxiliary key area may include at least a key structure 10 for the 10 numbers from 0 to 9. The function key area may include a key structure 10 for the 12 functions from F1 to F12. The editing key area may include key structures 10 for editing functions such as home, end, page up, and page on. The four input areas can be connected to four target mechanisms 20 respectively. The target mechanisms 20 of the four input areas can all be in the first state, all in the second state, or partially in the first state and partially in the second state, so that the key pressure of different input areas is the same or different. Here, the main key area and auxiliary key area are used more frequently. The key pressure of these two areas can be adjusted to the first pressure through the corresponding target mechanism 20. The function key area and editing key area are used only occasionally. The key pressure of these two areas can be adjusted to the second pressure through the corresponding target mechanism 20. The second pressure is greater than the first pressure. In this way, the accidental touch of the function key area and editing key area can be reduced.

[0049] In this embodiment, multiple input areas can be set on the input device 100, and different target mechanisms 20 can be set in different input areas so that the key pressure of different input areas can be adjusted independently.

[0050] In some embodiments, see Figures 1 to 6The target mechanism 20 may include an input button 21, which may include a second keycap 211. The orientation of the second keycap 211 may be the same as or different from that of the first keycap 11. The input button 21 may have two states that can be switched between each other to control the target mechanism 20 to be in a first state or a second state.

[0051] When the first keycap 11 and the second keycap 211 face the same direction, the surface of the first keycap 11 facing away from the input device 100 and the surface of the second keycap 211 facing away from the input device 100 can be located on the same side of the input device 100 and can be at the same height or at different heights; when the first keycap 11 and the second keycap 211 face different directions, the surface of the first keycap 11 facing away from the input device 100 and the surface of the second keycap 211 facing away from the input device 100 can be located on different sides of the input device 100.

[0052] See one example. Figures 1 to 6 The second keycap 211 can be a knob, which can rotate relative to the input device 100 when subjected to an external rotational force. Before the knob rotates relative to the input device 100, the target mechanism 20 can be in a first state. After the knob rotates relative to the input device 100, the target mechanism 20 can be in a second state. Thus, the target mechanism 20 can be controlled to be in the first or second state by the knob.

[0053] In another example, the second keycap 211 can be a button, which can be displaced relative to the input device 100 when subjected to an external force; before the button is displaced, the target mechanism 20 can be in a first state; after the button is displaced, the target mechanism 20 can be in a second state; thus, the target mechanism 20 can be controlled to be in the first state or the second state by a knob.

[0054] In this embodiment, the target mechanism 20 can be switched between the first state and the second state by rotating or pressing the input button 21. The rotation and pressing operations are simple, quick and easy for users to operate.

[0055] In some embodiments, the input device 100 may include an indication area, which may be disposed on the input device 100 for indicating the status of the target mechanism 20.

[0056] The indicator area can be set on the first keycap 11, the second keycap 211, the target mechanism 20, etc. The indicator area can be a display screen, a position mark, a sound hole, etc., so as to conveniently show the user whether the target mechanism 20 is in the first state or the second state.

[0057] When the indicator area is a display screen, the display screen shows a first indicator that the target mechanism 20 is in a first state or a second indicator that the target mechanism 20 is in a second state. The first indicator may include, but is not limited to, the following indicators: first state, small pressure, small, 0, etc. The second indicator may include, but is not limited to, the following indicators: second state, large pressure, large, 1, etc.

[0058] When the indicator area is a position mark, there can be multiple position marks. For example, the second keycap 211 is a knob, and the knob has a first position mark and a second position mark on its axial direction. When the knob control target mechanism 20 is in the first state, the first position mark is exposed from the target hole on the axial surface of the input device 100 corresponding to the knob, and when the knob control target mechanism 20 is in the second state, the second position mark is exposed from the target hole. Alternatively, the knob can have a marker point, and the knob's peripheral structure (such as the cover plate 29 mentioned below) can have a third position mark and a fourth position mark. When the knob control target mechanism 20 is in the first state, the marker point on the knob is opposite to the third position mark, and when the knob control target mechanism 20 is in the second state, the marker point on the knob is opposite to the fourth position mark.

[0059] When the indicator area is a sound outlet, a sound output component can be provided on the input device 100 at the position corresponding to the sound outlet. When the second keycap 211 controls the target mechanism 20 to be in the first state, the sound output component can output a first audio through the sound outlet. The first audio can be: "adjusted to the first state", "first state", "the key pressure is small", etc. When the second keycap 211 controls the target mechanism 20 to be in the second state, the sound output component can output a second audio through the sound outlet. The second audio can be: "adjusted to the second state", "second state", "the key pressure is large", etc.

[0060] In this embodiment, the pressing force of the current button structure 10 can be conveniently and quickly identified through the indicator area.

[0061] In some embodiments, when the target mechanism 20 is in a first state, the first keycap 11 may be at a first height; when the target mechanism 20 is in a second state, the first keycap 11 may be at a second height, and the second height may be the same as or different from the first height.

[0062] Alternatively, during the switching process between the first and second states of the target mechanism 20, the height of the first keycap 11 can be adjusted accordingly or remain unchanged, so as to achieve synchronous adjustment of the pressing force and the height of the first keycap 11.

[0063] In one example, the input device 100 may include a lower housing and an upper housing. The lower housing may have an upward-facing groove. A target mechanism 20 may be disposed within the groove. The side of the target mechanism 20 corresponding to the opening may support multiple button structures 10 and may be connected to the reset members 12 of the multiple button structures 10. The upper housing may correspond to the opening of the lower housing and may have clearance holes corresponding to the position of each button structure 10. The first keycap 11 may have a structure that is smaller at the top and larger at the bottom. The second keycap 211 may be a button that passes through the lower housing. This button is interference-fitted with the lower housing and may be connected to the target mechanism 20 inside the lower housing. When the target mechanism 20 is in a first state, the first keycap 11 may be located at the clearance hole and at a first height. When the second button is subjected to an upward pushing force, the target mechanism 20 moves upward and first pushes all the button structures 10 to displace upward within the corresponding clearance holes. When the first keycap 11 abuts against the clearance hole on its periphery, the reset member 12 can generate a compression amount and maintain a state with a compression amount, so that the reset member 12 can have a pre-compression amount before the key structure 10 is triggered. At this time, the target mechanism 20 switches from the first state to the second state. In this state, the first keycap 11 is displaced in the upward direction, so that the first keycap 11 in this state is at a second height greater than the first height, and the reset member 12 in this state has a pre-compression amount, which increases the downward pressing force applied to the first keycap 11 to trigger the function corresponding to the first keycap 11, thereby increasing the pressing force. When the second key is subjected to a downward pulling force, the target mechanism 20 can move downward and reset the reset member 12. Multiple first keycaps 11 can recover to the first height under their own weight or external downward pressure, so that the target mechanism 20 can return to the first state again.

[0064] In another example, unlike the previous example, when the target mechanism 20 is in the first state, the first keycap 11 can be located corresponding to the clearance hole and abut against the inner wall of the clearance hole, and the first keycap 11 can be at the first height at this time; when the second key is pushed upward, the target mechanism 20 moves upward so that the reset member 12 can generate compression and maintain the state with compression, so that the reset member 12 before the key structure 10 is triggered can have pre-compression. At this time, the target mechanism 20 switches from the first state to the second state. In this state, the first keycap 11 can still be at the first height due to the restriction of the clearance hole, and the reset member 12 in this state has pre-compression, which increases the downward pressing force applied to the first keycap 11 to trigger the function corresponding to the first keycap 11, thereby increasing the pressing force; when the second key is pulled downward, the target mechanism 20 can move downward and reset the reset member 12. Multiple first keycaps 11 can recover to the first height under their own weight or external downward pressure, so that the target mechanism 20 can return to the first state again.

[0065] In this embodiment, the change of the state of the target mechanism 20 can adjust the pressing force of the key structure 10, and the height of the first keycap 11 can be changed or not changed during the process of the change of the state of the target mechanism 20, so that the input device 100 can have a variety of settings.

[0066] In some embodiments, see Figures 2 to 6 The input device 100 may include a housing 30 and a support member 40. The housing 30 may have a supporting surface 31. The support member 40 may have a first surface 41 and a second surface 42 facing away from each other. The first surface 41 may be used to support multiple button structures 10. The second surface 42 may be opposite to the supporting surface 31, and a sliding space 32 is formed between the second surface 42 and the supporting surface 31. The thickness of the sliding space 32 may gradually decrease along a first direction. The target mechanism 20 may include a sliding member 22. The sliding member 22 may be disposed in the sliding space 32. When the sliding member 22 slides along the first direction, the target mechanism 20 may switch from a first state to a second state. When the sliding member 22 slides along a second direction opposite to the first direction, the target mechanism 20 may switch from a second state to a first state.

[0067] The supporting surface 31 of the housing 30 can be the inner bottom wall of the receiving groove of the housing 30. The bearing member 40 can be disposed in the receiving groove. The bearing member 40 can be a plate having a first surface 41 and a second surface 42 facing away from each other. The first surface 41 can be facing away from the inner bottom wall, and the second surface 42 can be opposite to the supporting surface 31 to form a sliding space 32 between the supporting surface 31 of the housing 30 and the second surface 42 of the bearing member 40. At least one of the supporting surface 31 and the second surface 42 is inclined to the other so that the sliding space 32 between the supporting surface 31 and the second surface 42 is in a first direction (e.g., Figure 5 The thickness of the sliding member 22 gradually decreases along the first direction (e.g., in the X direction), while the sliding member 22 of the target mechanism 20 is located in the sliding space 32 and abuts against the support surface 31 and the second surface 42 respectively. Thus, during its sliding along the first direction, the sliding member 22 pushes the carrier member 40 to slide away from the support surface 31, allowing the target mechanism 20 to switch from the first state to the second state. Conversely, during the sliding of the sliding member 22 along the second direction opposite to the first direction, the carrier member 40 is returned to its original position, enabling the target mechanism 20 to switch from the second state to the first state. The thickness of the sliding member 22 can gradually decrease along the first direction to adapt to the support surface 31 and the second surface 42.

[0068] In this embodiment, a sliding space 32 with a thickness that gradually decreases along the first direction can be formed between the housing 30 and the support member 40. The sliding member 22 can slide in the sliding space 32 along the first direction or the second direction opposite to the first direction, thereby realizing the switching of the target mechanism 20 between the first state and the second state. The sliding setting makes the operation process simple and quick.

[0069] In some embodiments, the target mechanism 20 may include: a first lead screw 23, a second lead screw 24, a drive shaft 25, and a worm gear 26. The first lead screw 23 may extend along a first direction, pass through the sliding member 22, and may be threadedly engaged with the sliding member 22. The second lead screw 24 may extend along the first direction, pass through the sliding member 22, and may be threadedly engaged with the sliding member 22. The two ends of the drive shaft 25 may respectively mesh with the first lead screw 23 and the second lead screw 24. The worm gear 26 may mesh with the worm wheel on the drive shaft 25 and may partially expose the input device 100. When the worm gear 26 is subjected to a rotational force, the drive shaft 25 may drive the first lead screw 23 and the second lead screw 24 to rotate, thereby driving the sliding member 22 to slide along the first direction or the second direction.

[0070] Here, the sliding component 22 can have a first through hole and a second through hole, the extension directions of the first through hole and the second through hole can both be parallel to the first direction, and a first thread can be provided in the first through hole, and a second thread can be provided in the second through hole. A first lead screw 23 can pass through the first through hole, and the spiral pattern on the surface of the first lead screw 23 can cooperate with the first thread. A second lead screw 24 can pass through the second through hole, and the spiral pattern on the surface of the second lead screw 24 can cooperate with the second thread. The two ends of the drive shaft 25 can be respectively provided with a third thread and a fourth thread. The third thread can engage with the spiral pattern on the surface of the first lead screw 23 located outside the first through hole, and the fourth thread can engage with the spiral pattern on the surface of the second lead screw 24 located outside the second through hole; the worm 26 can mesh with the worm gear on the drive shaft 25 and can partially expose the input device 100; when the worm 26 exposed in the input device 100 is subjected to a rotational force applied by the user or the mechanical structure, the drive shaft 25 can drive the first lead screw 23 and the second lead screw 24 to rotate, so as to drive the sliding member 22 to slide along the first direction or the second direction.

[0071] In this embodiment, a rotational force can be applied to the worm 26 exposed outside the input device 100, so that the transmission shaft 25 meshing with the worm 26 can rotate, and can drive the first lead screw 23 and the second lead screw 24 to rotate. In turn, the sliding member 22, which is threadedly engaged with the first lead screw 23 and the second lead screw 24, can move along the first lead screw 23 and the second lead screw 24 in the first direction or the second direction. The worm 26 meshes with the transmission shaft 25, and the first lead screw 23 and the second lead screw 24 are threadedly engaged with the transmission shaft 25 and with the sliding member 22. This allows the rotational force of the worm 26 to be stably transmitted to the sliding member 22, driving the sliding member 22 to slide. In addition, the first lead screw 23 and the second lead screw 24 are arranged in parallel through the sliding member 22, which makes the sliding of the sliding member 22 smoother.

[0072] In some embodiments, see Figure 2 and Figure 5 The target mechanism 20 may include: a first limiting member 27 and a second limiting member 28. The first limiting member 27 may be disposed in the sliding space 32 and may be opposite to one end of the sliding member 22 along the first direction. The second limiting member 28 may be disposed in the sliding space 32 and may be opposite to the other end of the sliding member 22 along the first direction. In the case that the sliding member 22 slides and abuts against either the first limiting member 27 or the second limiting member 28, the sliding member 22 may still be threadedly engaged with the first lead screw 23 and the second lead screw 24.

[0073] The first limiting member 27 and the second limiting member 28 can be respectively located at the two ends of the sliding member 22 along the first direction, and the distance between the first limiting member 27 and the second limiting member 28 can be greater than the length of the sliding member 22 along the first direction, so that the sliding member 22 can slide along the first direction or the second direction to control the target mechanism 20 to switch between the first state and the second state. When the sliding member 22 slides and abuts against either the first limiting member 27 or the second limiting member 28, the sliding member 22 can still be threadedly engaged with the first lead screw 23 and the second lead screw 24, thereby reducing the possibility of the sliding member 22 disengaging from the first lead screw 23 and the second lead screw 24, or even jamming due to the sliding member 22 sliding to the end of the first lead screw 23 or the second lead screw 24.

[0074] In one example, the first limiting member 27 and the second limiting member 28 can both be limiting block structures. The thickness of the first limiting member 27 can gradually decrease along the first direction so that when the target mechanism 20 is in the first state, the first limiting member 27 can abut against the second surface 42 of the carrier member 40 and the support surface 31 of the housing 30 respectively. Similarly, the thickness of the second limiting member 28 can gradually decrease along the first direction so that when the target mechanism 20 is in the first state, the second limiting member 28 can abut against the second surface 42 of the carrier member 40 and the support surface 31 of the housing 30 respectively. Thus, when the target mechanism 20 is in the first state, the two ends of the support surface 31 of the housing 30 abut against the first limiting member 27 and the second limiting member 28 along the first direction, and the two ends of the second surface 42 of the carrier member 40 abut against the first limiting member 27 and the second limiting member 28 along the first direction, thereby allowing the carrier member 40 to be stably supported by the first limiting member 27 and the second limiting member 28.

[0075] In some embodiments, see Figures 1 to 6 The target mechanism 20 may include a cover plate 29 and a knob. The cover plate 29 may cover the drive shaft 25 at least on the orthogonal projection onto the support surface 31. The cover plate 29 may abut against the first lead screw 23, the second lead screw 24 and the drive shaft 25. The cover plate 29 may be provided with a through hole 291 for the worm 26 to pass through it at the position corresponding to the worm 26. The knob may be provided on the side of the cover plate 29 facing away from the support surface 31, connected to the worm 26, and used to receive rotational force.

[0076] Cover plate 29 can be as follows Figures 1 to 6The structure shown has its orthographic projection onto the support surface 31 covering the drive shaft 25, thus providing physical protection for the drive shaft 25. The cover plate 29 can also be the upper housing mentioned above, with its orthographic projection onto the support surface 31 covering the drive shaft 25, and it also has a clearance hole through which the first keycap 11 passes. The cover plate 29 can also have other configurations. The surface of the cover plate 29 facing the support surface 31 can be provided with a protrusion 292, which can abut against the first lead screw 23, the second lead screw 24, and the drive shaft 25, so that the first lead screw 23, the second lead screw 24, and the drive shaft 25 are restricted in position by the protrusion 292 during rotation, thereby reducing the probability of displacement during rotation. The surfaces of the protrusion 292 and the abutted first lead screw 23, the second lead screw 24, and the drive shaft 25 can all be smooth surfaces to avoid the protrusion 292 increasing resistance to the rotation of the first lead screw 23, the second lead screw 24, and the drive shaft 25.

[0077] The knob can be a second keycap 211. The peripheral surface of the knob can be provided with dot-shaped protrusions, strip-shaped protrusions, or other features to increase friction, so that when the user's hand or mechanical mechanism holds the knob, the knob can be firmly gripped and a rotational force can be applied to it.

[0078] In some embodiments, see Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 The input device 100 may include a fixing plate 50 and a circuit board 60. The fixing plate 50 and the circuit board 60 may be stacked between multiple first keycaps 11 and the carrier member 40. The fixing plate 50 may be fixedly connected to a ring of the inner wall of the housing 30. The fixing plate 50 and the circuit board 60 are respectively provided with a third through hole and a fourth through hole. The reset member 12 passes through the third through hole and the fourth through hole. The first surface 41 of the carrier member 40 may be provided with a limiting recess 411. The key structure 10 may include a limiting seat 13, one end of which... It can extend into the limiting recess 411 and be fixed in position relative to the limiting recess 411, and the other end of the limiting seat 13 is fixedly sleeved on the reset member 12; wherein, when the first keycap 11 is subjected to the pressing external force, it moves relative to the fixed plate 50 and is connected to the circuit board 60 so that the function of the key structure 10 is triggered, and during the movement of the first keycap 11, the reset member 12 deforms so that when the pressing external force on the first keycap 11 is removed, the reset member 12 can return to its original shape to drive the first keycap 11 to reset.

[0079] Second aspect

[0080] This disclosure provides an electronic device, which may include at least one display device and an input device 100. The input device 100 can be signal-connected to the display device for inputting information to change the display content of the display device. The input device 100 may include a plurality of key structures 10 and a target mechanism 20. The key structure 10 may include a first keycap 11 and a reset member 12. The reset force of the reset member 12 can act on the first keycap 11. The target mechanism 20 can be connected to the reset members 12 of the plurality of key structures 10. The target mechanism 20 may have a switchable first state and a second state. When the target mechanism 20 is in the first state, the force of the reset member 12 acting on the first keycap 11 is a first force. When the target mechanism 20 is in the second state, the force of the reset member 12 acting on the first keycap 11 is a second force, and the second force may be different from the first force.

[0081] Electronic devices can be laptops, audio / video players, etc. When an electronic device is a laptop, it can perform at least three tasks, including but not limited to audio playback, video playback, document processing, web browsing, programming, and gaming. For example, a laptop may include a display and a system. The display may have a display device, and the system may have a motherboard, battery, memory card, speaker, input device 100, etc. Signals triggered by the buttons 10 of the input device 100 are processed by the motherboard into display signals, audio signals, etc. The display signals can be displayed via the display device, and the audio signals can be played through the speaker. When an electronic device is an audio / video player, it can perform both audio and video playback tasks. For example, an audio / video player may include a playback end and an input processing end. The playback end may have a display device to display video content and output audio. The input processing end may include the input device 100, battery, etc. Signals triggered by the buttons 10 of the input device 100 are processed by the playback end, including display signals and audio signals.

[0082] It should be noted that the input device in the electronic device provided in this disclosure is similar to the input device embodiments described above, and has similar beneficial effects. For technical details not disclosed in the embodiments of the electronic device in this disclosure, please refer to the description of the input device embodiments in this disclosure for understanding; further details will not be repeated here.

[0083] The embodiments of this disclosure have now been described in detail. To avoid obscuring the concept of this disclosure, some details known in the art have not been described. Those skilled in the art can fully understand how to implement the technical solutions disclosed herein based on the above description.

[0084] While specific embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail by way of examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the examples are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments or equivalent substitutions can be made to some technical features without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any manner.

Claims

1. An input device, characterized by include: A multi-button structure, the button structure including: a first keycap and a reset member, wherein the reset force of the reset member can be applied to the first keycap; A target mechanism is connected to a reset component of the plurality of button structures, and the target mechanism has a switchable first state and a second state. When the target mechanism is in the first state, the force exerted by the reset member on the first keycap is the first force; When the target mechanism is in the second state, the force exerted by the reset member on the first keycap is a second force, which is different from the first force.

2. The input device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The target organization has multiple components; The input device includes multiple input areas, each of which is equipped with multiple button structures. Different input areas are connected to different target mechanisms, and the states of the target mechanisms in different input areas may be consistent or inconsistent.

3. The input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The target mechanism includes an input button, which includes a second keycap. The orientation of the second keycap is the same as or different from that of the first keycap. The input button has two states that can be switched between each other to control the target mechanism to be in the first state or the second state.

4. The input device of claim 3, wherein include: An indicator area, located on the input device, is used to indicate the status of the target mechanism.

5. The input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, When the target mechanism is in the first state, the first keycap is at the first height; When the target mechanism is in the second state, the first keycap is at a second height, which may or may not be the same as the first height.

6. The input device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein include: The shell has a supporting surface; The support member has a first surface and a second surface facing away from each other. The first surface is used to support a plurality of button structures. The second surface is opposite to the support surface and a sliding space is formed between the second surface and the support surface. The thickness of the sliding space gradually decreases along a first direction. The target mechanism includes a sliding member disposed in the sliding space. When the sliding member slides along the first direction, the target mechanism switches from the first state to the second state; when the sliding member slides along the second direction opposite to the first direction, the target mechanism switches from the second state to the first state.

7. The input device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The target mechanism includes: a first lead screw, a second lead screw, a drive shaft, and a worm gear. The first lead screw extends along the first direction, passes through the sliding member, and is threadedly engaged with the sliding member. The second lead screw extends along the first direction, passes through the sliding member, and is threadedly engaged with the sliding member. The two ends of the drive shaft are respectively engaged with the first lead screw and the second lead screw. The worm gear is engaged with a turbine on the drive shaft and partially exposes the input device. When the worm is subjected to a rotational force, the transmission shaft drives the first lead screw and the second lead screw to rotate, thereby driving the sliding member to slide along the first direction or the second direction.

8. The input device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The target mechanism includes: a first limiting member and a second limiting member, wherein the first limiting member is disposed in the sliding space and is opposite to one end of the sliding member along the first direction, and the second limiting member is disposed in the sliding space and is opposite to the other end of the sliding member along the first direction; When the sliding member slides and abuts against either the first limiting member or the second limiting member, the sliding member is still threadedly engaged with the first lead screw and the second lead screw.

9. The input device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The target mechanism includes a cover plate and a knob. The orthogonal projection of the cover plate onto the support surface at least covers the drive shaft. The cover plate abuts against the first lead screw, the second lead screw, and the drive shaft. The cover plate has a through hole for the worm gear at the position corresponding to the worm gear. The knob is located on the side of the cover plate facing away from the support surface, connected to the worm gear, and used to receive the rotational force.

10. An electronic device, comprising: include: At least one display device; An input device, signal-connected to the display device, is used to input information to change the display content of the display device. The input device includes: A multi-button structure, the button structure including: a first keycap and a reset member, wherein the reset force of the reset member can be applied to the first keycap; A target mechanism is connected to a reset component of the plurality of button structures, and the target mechanism has a switchable first state and a second state. When the target mechanism is in the first state, the force exerted by the reset member on the first keycap is the first force; When the target mechanism is in the second state, the force exerted by the reset member on the first keycap is a second force, which is different from the first force.

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