Silica gel key with backlight

Abstract

The utility model discloses a silica gel key with backlight, including the facial mask, first double -sided adhesive layer, silica gel layer, second double -sided adhesive layer, fixed layer, third double -sided adhesive layer, circuit layer and back adhesive layer that are sequentially stacked from upper layer to lower layer. The utility model discloses, through the integration design of light -conducting silica gel layer, laser carving light -transmitting mark, waterproof seal ring and multilayer composite structure, effectively solved the single backlight function, the problem that the waterproof performance is insufficient and the complex appearance is difficult to take into account in the prior art, realized the beneficial effect that the backlight is even soft, mark can customize, the protection level is high and the key hand feeling is comfortable.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of membrane keypad technology, and in particular to a backlit silicone keypad. Background Technology

[0002] In the fields of consumer electronics, home appliances, and industrial control equipment, silicone buttons are widely used due to their excellent feel, durability, and sealing performance. As the market continues to demand higher levels of human-computer interaction and aesthetic quality, traditional silicone button technology is also evolving. In particular, backlighting has become an important development direction for improving device usability and aesthetic value, achieving a leap from single-function to integrated visual guidance and operational feedback.

[0003] However, existing backlit silicone buttons still have many limitations in their structural design. First, their backlight structures are often relatively simple, with poor light uniformity and low customization of markings, making it difficult to display complex and colorful patterns. Second, in terms of sealing performance, many backlit buttons have structural weaknesses in the handling of circuit leads and other parts, making it difficult to achieve high waterproof and dustproof ratings (such as IP67), limiting their application in harsh environments. In addition, existing technologies are significantly lacking in integrating comfortable pressing feel, reliable waterproof sealing, uniform backlighting, and rich appearance design. There are often mutual constraints between functional modules, making it difficult to balance overall product performance and reliability.

[0004] Therefore, given the shortcomings of existing backlit silicone buttons in terms of functional integration, waterproof reliability, and visual aesthetics, it is necessary to make in-depth improvements and optimizations to their overall structure. Through innovative layered configurations and material applications, a new type of silicone button with excellent backlighting effect, high-level protection, superior tactile feel, and highly customizable appearance can be developed, thereby solving the aforementioned technical problems. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to address the shortcomings of existing technologies by proposing a backlit silicone button.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: a backlit silicone button, comprising a face film, a first double-sided adhesive layer, a silicone layer, a second double-sided adhesive layer, a fixing layer, a third double-sided adhesive layer, a circuit layer and a backing adhesive layer stacked sequentially from top to bottom;

[0007] The silicone layer is made of light-guiding material, and a downwardly protruding button body is integrally formed on it. The button body is made of transparent or semi-transparent light-guiding material, and its back side facing the press has a cylindrical structure.

[0008] A second, translucent mark formed by laser engraving is also provided on the silicone layer and located where the button body is covered.

[0009] The circuit layer is provided with an LED light, a spring contact, and a connecting wire; the second double-sided adhesive layer, the fixing layer, and the third double-sided adhesive layer are all provided with through holes for light to pass through at the positions corresponding to the LED light; the light emitted by the LED light passes through the through holes and enters the silicone layer, and can be guided to the second mark and then shine through the silicone layer; the position of the spring contact corresponds to the position directly below the cylindrical structure of the button body;

[0010] The circuit layer is embedded in a waterproof ring, and the width of the waterproof ring is not less than 3mm.

[0011] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0012] The mask is either a PET film or a PC film with a thickness of 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm, and has a first logo formed by digital printing.

[0013] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0014] The upper surface of the first double-sided adhesive layer is an acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, and the lower surface is a silicone pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0015] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0016] The upper surface of the second double-sided adhesive layer is a silicone pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, and the lower surface is an acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0017] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0018] A fourth cavity is formed on the fixing layer, and a fifth cavity is formed on the third double-sided adhesive layer. The spring is housed in the installation space formed by the fourth cavity and the fifth cavity.

[0019] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0020] The mask has a first cavity that provides space for the button body to move, and the first double-sided adhesive layer has a corresponding second cavity.

[0021] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0022] A third cavity is formed on the second double-sided adhesive layer to provide clearance for the cylindrical structure.

[0023] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0024] A sixth cavity is provided on the adhesive backing layer for the connecting wire to be led out.

[0025] This utility model has the following beneficial effects:

[0026] Compared with existing technologies, this backlit silicone button integrates a light-guiding silicone layer, laser-engraved light-transmitting markings, a waterproof sealing ring, and a multi-layer composite structure into a single design. This effectively solves the problems of limited backlight functionality, insufficient waterproof performance, and difficulty in achieving a complex appearance in existing technologies. It achieves the beneficial effects of uniform and soft backlighting, customizable markings, high protection level, and comfortable button feel. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a backlit silicone button proposed in this utility model.

[0028] Figure 2 This utility model proposes a backlit silicone button. Figure 1 A magnified view of a section at point A in the middle;

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a backlit silicone button proposed in this utility model.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the silicone layer structure of a backlit silicone button proposed in this utility model.

[0031] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit layer structure of a backlit silicone button proposed in this utility model.

[0032] Legend:

[0033] 1. Facial mask; 2. First double-sided adhesive layer; 3. Silicone layer; 4. Second double-sided adhesive layer; 5. Fixing layer; 6. Third double-sided adhesive layer; 7. Circuit layer; 8. Backing adhesive layer; 9. Spring contact; 10. Connecting wire; 11. LED light; 12. First cavity; 13. First marking; 14. Second cavity; 15. Button body; 16. Second marking; 17. Third cavity; 18. Fourth cavity; 19. Fifth cavity; 20. Sixth cavity; 21. Waterproof ring. Detailed Implementation

[0034] 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 protection scope of the present utility model.

[0035] Reference Figures 1 to 5 This embodiment provides a backlit silicone button. Its structure includes, from top to bottom, a face film 1, a first double-sided adhesive layer 2, a silicone layer 3, a second double-sided adhesive layer 4, a fixing layer 5, a third double-sided adhesive layer 6, a circuit layer 7, and a backing adhesive layer 8, stacked sequentially. Crucially, the circuit layer 7 is completely embedded within a waterproof ring 21, the width of which is designed to be no less than 3mm. Through this structure, the waterproof ring 21 and the edge of the circuit layer 7 form a wide and reliable bonding area. When bonded with waterproof structural adhesive, it effectively seals any structural gaps that may be caused by the circuit layer 7 itself and its connecting wires 10, constructing a continuous waterproof barrier. This allows the entire button module to effectively prevent the intrusion of moisture and dust, thereby achieving high-level protection performance such as IP67 and solving the reliability problem of easy leakage at the lead wires in existing backlit buttons.

[0036] To establish an efficient and reliable optical path and guide light from the bottom LED to the upper light-guiding silicone layer, this embodiment precisely provides through-holes for light to pass through on the second double-sided adhesive layer 4, the fixing layer 5, and the third double-sided adhesive layer 6, corresponding to the positions of the LEDs 11 on the circuit layer 7. Through this structure, the light emitted by the LEDs 11 can pass unobstructed through the through-holes in the third double-sided adhesive layer 6, the fixing layer 5, and the second double-sided adhesive layer 4, directly entering and coupling into the upper silicone layer 3. This solves the technical problem in multi-layer stacked structures where the bottom light source cannot effectively supply light to the upper light guide, providing the necessary optical path foundation for uniform backlighting.

[0037] To achieve uniform backlighting and a customizable color appearance, this embodiment employs a unique light guide and appearance separation design. Light entering the silicone layer 3 is conducted within it. The silicone layer 3 is made of a light guide material, on which a downwardly protruding button body 15, made of transparent or semi-transparent light guide material, is integrally formed. A second, translucent identifier 16, formed by laser engraving, is also provided on the silicone layer 3, located where the button body 15 is covered. Simultaneously, a first identifier 13, formed by digital printing, is provided on the mask 1. When light is conducted within the silicone layer 3 to the second identifier 16, the light scatters upwards from there, illuminating the button body 15.

[0038] To ensure long-term reliability of interlayer bonding and adaptability to different materials, this embodiment features a specially designed key adhesive layer. The upper surface of the first double-sided adhesive layer 2 is an acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive layer for reliably bonding the PET or PC film 1; its lower surface is a silicone pressure-sensitive adhesive layer for a strong bond with the silicone layer 3. Similarly, the upper surface of the second double-sided adhesive layer 4 is a silicone pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, and the lower surface is an acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, used to bond the silicone layer 3 and the fixing layer 5, respectively. Through this structure, each double-sided adhesive layer selects the optimal adhesive type based on the material characteristics of its upper and lower contact surfaces, ensuring strong and stable bonding between materials of different properties throughout the multi-layer stacked structure. This avoids the risk of interlayer delamination due to temperature and humidity changes or long-term use, thereby guaranteeing the overall structural integrity and service life of the product.

[0039] To optimize the button's trigger feel and provide clear tactile feedback, while ensuring smooth travel of moving parts, this embodiment incorporates a comprehensive mechanical design. The button body 15 on the silicone layer 3 has a cylindrical structure on the side facing away from the pressing surface. A fourth cavity 18 is formed on the fixing layer 5, and a fifth cavity 19 is formed on the third double-sided adhesive layer 6, within which the spring 9 is housed. A third cavity 17 is formed on the second double-sided adhesive layer 4 to provide clearance for the cylindrical structure. When the user presses the faceplate 1, the force travels through the button body 15, causing the cylindrical structure on the back to move downwards, precisely passing through the third cavity 17 and pressing the spring 9 to trigger the circuit. Through this structure, the cylindrical structure ensures concentrated force, providing crisp trigger feedback; while the series of cavities provide a precise and interference-free movement path for the pressing stroke, collectively solving the problems of a soft button feel and sluggish movement. A sixth cavity 20 on the backing adhesive layer 8 provides a channel for the lead-out of the connecting wire 10.

[0040] The working principle of this utility model is as follows:

[0041] In the static display state, the LED 11 on the circuit layer 7 is lit, and the emitted light passes vertically through the corresponding through holes on the third double-sided adhesive layer 6, the fixing layer 5, and the second double-sided adhesive layer 4, entering the silicone layer 3 made of transparent or semi-transparent light-guiding material. The light is conducted within the silicone layer 3, especially inside the button body 15. When it reaches the light-transmitting second mark 16 formed on the surface of the button body by laser engraving, the light is scattered upwards from there. At this time, the user sees the backlight emitted from the transparent button body itself, defined by the second mark 16. Meanwhile, the first mark 13 on the mask 1, as an independent color layer, displays its inherent color and pattern under ambient light, and its visual appearance is independent of the backlight below.

[0042] In dynamic trigger mode, when the user presses the button body 15, the cylindrical structure on its back precisely presses down, passing sequentially through the third cavity 17 on the second double-sided adhesive layer 4 and the fourth cavity 18 on the fixing layer 5, finally pressing the spring 9 housed in the fifth cavity 19. This causes the spring 9 to deform and make contact with the corresponding contact on the circuit layer 7, forming an electrical circuit and completing one command input. After releasing the press, the elastic restoring force of the silicone layer 3 drives the button body 15, along with the cylindrical structure, to spring back to its initial position, and the spring 9 also returns to its original shape, disconnecting the circuit.

[0043] Throughout the process, the waterproof ring 21 ensures the module's airtightness, while the specially designed double-sided adhesive layers guarantee the overall stability and durability of the structure.

[0044] Finally, it should be noted that the above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and is not intended to limit the present utility model. Although the present utility model has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A backlit silicone button, characterized in that: The product includes a mask (1), a first double-sided adhesive layer (2), a silicone layer (3), a second double-sided adhesive layer (4), a fixing layer (5), a third double-sided adhesive layer (6), a circuit layer (7), and a backing adhesive layer (8) stacked sequentially from top to bottom. The silicone layer (3) is made of light-guiding material, and a downward protruding button body (15) is integrally formed on it. The button body (15) is made of transparent or semi-transparent light-guiding material, and its back side facing the press has a cylindrical structure. A second, translucent mark (16) formed by laser engraving is also provided on the silicone layer (3) and located at the area covered by the button body (15). The circuit layer (7) is provided with an LED light (11), a spring (9) and a connecting wire (10); the second double-sided adhesive layer (4), the fixing layer (5) and the third double-sided adhesive layer (6) are all provided with through holes for light to pass through at the positions corresponding to the LED light (11); the light emitted by the LED light (11) passes through the through holes and enters the silicone layer (3), and can be guided to the second mark (16) and pass through the silicone layer (3); the position of the spring (9) corresponds to the position directly below the cylindrical structure of the button body (15); The circuit layer (7) is embedded in a waterproof ring (21), the width of which is not less than 3mm.

2. A backlit silicone button according to claim 1, characterized in that: The face mask (1) is either a PET film or a PC film with a thickness of 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm, and has a first mark (13) formed by digital printing.

3. A backlit silicone button according to claim 1, characterized in that: The upper surface of the first double-sided adhesive layer (2) is an acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, and the lower surface is a silicone pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

4. A backlit silicone button according to claim 1, characterized in that: The upper surface of the second double-sided adhesive layer (4) is a silicone pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, and the lower surface is an acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

5. A backlit silicone button according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fixing layer (5) has a fourth cavity (18), the third double-sided adhesive layer (6) has a fifth cavity (19), and the spring piece (9) is housed in the installation space formed by the fourth cavity (18) and the fifth cavity (19).

6. A backlit silicone button according to claim 1, characterized in that: The face mask (1) has a first cavity (12) that provides space for the button body (15) to move, and the first double-sided adhesive layer (2) has a corresponding second cavity (14).

7. A backlit silicone button according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second double-sided adhesive layer (4) has a third cavity (17) that provides clearance for the cylindrical structure.

8. A backlit silicone button according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adhesive backing layer (8) has a sixth cavity (20) for the connecting line (10) to be led out.

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