Key, keyboard, electronic device and electronic device assembly

Abstract

Provided in the present application are a key, a keyboard, an electronic device and an electronic device assembly. The key comprises a keycap, a support assembly and a base plate assembly, which are stacked in sequence, wherein the support assembly is configured to support the movement of the keycap relative to the base plate assembly; the base plate assembly comprises an electrically conductive film and a base plate, the electrically conductive film having a contact portion, and the base plate being provided with a first clearance hole in the area corresponding to an elastomer in the support assembly; and when the keycap is pressed, the elastomer is compressed, the compressed elastomer forces the electrically conductive film to bulge towards the first clearance hole, and the top of the compressed elastomer abuts between the keycap and the contact portion of the electrically conductive film, so that the bulging portion of the electrically conductive film is accommodated in the first clearance hole, or the bulging portion of the electrically conductive film and part of the compressed elastomer are accommodated in the first clearance hole. On the basis of the light and thin design of the keyboard, the present application can ensure that the key has a sufficiently long key travel, thereby improving the hand feel and user experience of users, reducing the wear of the elastomer, and prolonging the service lives of the elastomer and the key.

Description

Keyboards, keyboards, electronic devices and electronic device components

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202423060419.4, filed on December 10, 2024, entitled "Buttons, Keyboards, Electronic Devices and Electronic Device Components", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of keyboard technology, and in particular to a key, keyboard, electronic device and electronic device component. Background Technology

[0003] A keyboard is a device used to input instructions and data to operate electronic devices (such as laptops), and it is one of the core components of electronic devices. Keyboard feel refers to the tactile feedback a user experiences when typing, and it is crucial for improving typing efficiency and comfort.

[0004] Key travel, or keystroke distance, is the distance a key travels when pressed, and it directly affects the keyboard's feel and user experience. Generally, keyboard thickness and key travel are directly proportional; a thinner keyboard has a shorter key travel, resulting in a less enjoyable typing experience. However, with the miniaturization and thinning of electronic devices, keyboards are becoming increasingly thinner, leading to shorter key travel and thus impacting the user experience.

[0005] Therefore, existing keyboards, while being thin and light, cannot guarantee a sufficiently long key travel. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The buttons, keyboards, electronic devices, and electronic device components provided in this application embodiment solve the problem that in the prior art, keyboards cannot guarantee a sufficiently long key travel while achieving a thinner and lighter design.

[0007] A first aspect of this application provides a button, including a keycap, a support assembly, and a substrate assembly stacked sequentially along a first direction. The support assembly supports the keycap to move relative to the substrate assembly in the first direction. The substrate assembly includes a conductive film and a substrate stacked along the first direction. The conductive film is located on the side of the substrate facing the support assembly and has a contact portion. The substrate has a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other along its thickness direction, with the first surface facing the conductive film.

[0008] The support assembly includes an elastomer located between the conductive film and the keycap, and includes a top and a bottom. A first clearance hole is provided on the substrate corresponding to the area of ​​the elastomer. The first clearance hole extends from a first surface of the substrate toward a second surface and has a first opening on the first surface of the substrate, within which the projection of the elastomer onto the first surface of the substrate is entirely located. Pressing the keycap compresses the elastomer, causing it to press the conductive film to bulge toward the first clearance hole. The top of the compressed elastomer abuts against the contact portion between the keycap and the conductive film. The protruding portion of the conductive film is accommodated within the first clearance hole, or both the protruding portion of the conductive film and the portion of the compressed elastomer are accommodated within the first clearance hole.

[0009] The key provided in this application embodiment allows the support component to support the keycap's movement relative to the substrate assembly in a first direction during keycap pressing or releasing. The elastomer is compressed and stores energy when the keycap is pressed, and resets the keycap when it is released. When the top of the elastomer abuts against the contact portion of the conductive film, the key's function is activated. When the keycap is pressed and the elastomer is compressed to a certain extent, due to the presence of a first clearance hole below and the absence of substrate restriction, the compressed elastomer can deform the conductive film (i.e., bulge towards the first clearance hole), allowing the conductive film to be located inside the first clearance hole, or vice versa. The thickness of the conductive film and elastomer pressed into the first clearance hole can be understood as the increased travel of the key.

[0010] In other words, by creating the first clearance hole, the conductive film and the compressed elastomer can be accommodated within it. On one hand, while maintaining the same key thickness, releasing internal space further increases the key travel, providing users with more comfortable feedback and improving the comfort and smoothness of keystrokes, thus enhancing the user experience. This allows for a sufficiently long key travel for each key while maintaining a thinner keyboard. Simultaneously, the displacement of the conductive film and compressed elastomer within the first clearance hole increases the maximum compression of the elastomer when the keycap is pressed, increasing the rebound force provided by the elastomer to the keycap and providing clearer key feedback, allowing users to input commands more easily and smoothly, thus improving the overall user experience. On the other hand, by creating the first clearance hole on the substrate, the elastomer is directly and effectively provided with a travel distance towards the substrate in the first direction. Therefore, while maintaining the required key travel for optimal user feel, the keyboard thickness can be reduced—for example, by reducing the thickness of the keycaps or support components—without reducing the key travel, thereby promoting a thinner and lighter keyboard design.

[0011] Furthermore, the first clearance hole can provide redundant space at the contact portion on the conductive film. That is, when there are impurities on the surface of the conductive film, due to the first clearance hole, the impurities will not squeeze the contact portion on the conductive film and can directly achieve functional conduction, thus improving the reliability and accuracy of the button.

[0012] Furthermore, when the elastomer is compressed, a portion of it bulges upwards, pressing against the inner surface of the keycap. When the elastomer is compressed to its maximum compression state, the conductive film and the compressed elastomer can be located within the first clearance hole. This allows the compressive force generated by the contact between the outer surface of the elastomer and the inner surface of the keycap to be released along the elastic deformation of the elastomer towards the first clearance hole. Additionally, the compressive force generated by the contact between the inner surface of the elastomer and the surface of the conductive film is also reduced due to the bending deformation of the conductive film towards the first clearance hole. Therefore, by creating the first clearance hole on the substrate, the fatigue failure of the elastomer caused by mutual compression between the elastomer and the substrate assembly can be reduced, thereby reducing wear on the elastomer and increasing the lifespan of the key.

[0013] In summary, the keys provided in this application embodiment can ensure a sufficiently long key travel while maintaining a thin and light keyboard design, thereby improving the user's feel and experience. Furthermore, by fully utilizing the space released by the first clearance hole in the key, the conductive film and elastomer can be partially accommodated within the first clearance hole. This reduces wear during the compression of the elastomer, thus extending the lifespan of both the elastomer and the key.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the first clearance hole is a blind hole. This increases the key travel while maintaining the overall structural strength of the substrate, thus improving the keyboard's reliability.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the first clearance hole is a through hole. This allows for a greater travel distance during button pressing, and is simple to manufacture and inexpensive.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the first clearance hole has a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other in a first direction, the first end being a first opening, and the first clearance hole extending from its first end along at least one of a straight line, a broken line, and a curve to the second end.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the first clearance hole extends from its first end along a straight line to its second end, the straight line being parallel to the first direction.

[0018] The above scheme simplifies the structure of the first clearance hole, which helps to shorten the process flow.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the wall of the first clearance hole is entirely located on the outer periphery of the elastomer in a plane perpendicular to the first direction.

[0020] By adopting the above solution, the first clearance hole can enclose part of the elastomer, so that the elastomer can move as a whole in the first clearance hole along the first direction during the button press, which helps to increase the travel and improve the user experience.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the shape of the first clearance hole matches the shape of the bottom of the elastomer.

[0022] Using the above solution, the structure of the first clearance hole is simple, which can better cooperate with the movement of the elastomer, which helps to simplify the processing flow. At the same time, it controls the area occupied by the first clearance hole on the substrate, takes into account the structural strength of the substrate, and ensures reliability.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the projection of the first clearance hole onto the first plane is entirely located within the projection of the keycap onto the first plane, wherein the first plane is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the projection of the first clearance hole onto the keycap is located at the center of the keycap. This improves the smoothness of keystrokes and thus enhances the user experience.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the projection of the top of the elastomer onto the keycap lies within the projection of the bottom of the elastomer onto the keycap. The top includes a top plate and an actuating post, the actuating post extending from the inner surface of the top plate toward the conductive film, and the actuating post is used to abut against the contact portion of the conductive film.

[0026] The elastomer also includes an annular connecting portion connected between the top and bottom. The connecting portion includes a first annular portion and a second annular portion. The first annular portion is the part of the elastomer that protrudes upward and contacts the keycap after being compressed, and the second annular portion is the part of the elastomer that protrudes downward and contacts the conductive film after being compressed.

[0027] Using the above solution, the elastomer inside the key can fully contact the keycap and base plate assembly, effectively transmitting force, ensuring smooth keystrokes, and improving user experience. The connecting part is designed as a ring structure, which facilitates elastic deformation of the elastomer, causing this part to be compressed and thus increasing the stroke.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the elastomer is configured as a hollow frustum-shaped structure.

[0029] With the above solution, the top area of ​​the elastomer is small, which is used to contact the inner surface of the keycap, while the bottom area is large. The elastomer has a hollow structure, which can be well fixed on the base plate assembly. When the keycap is pressed down, the elastomer itself has enough deformation space to better target the contact part, realize functional conduction, and improve the accuracy of the user's key press.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the elastomer is made of silicone or rubber.

[0031] Using the above solution, the elastomer made of silicone provides better comfort and resilience, and is also durable and resistant to aging. The elastomer made of rubber provides a good tactile feel and is easy to process and recycle.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the substrate is a rigid plate.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the support component further includes a first scissor leg and a second scissor leg that are pivotally connected to each other. The two ends of the first scissor leg are movably connected to the substrate and the keycap, respectively. The two ends of the second scissor leg are movably connected to the substrate and the keycap, respectively. An elastomer passes through the middle of the first scissor leg and the middle of the second scissor leg.

[0034] Alternatively, the support assembly may also include a pair of rigid rods with an elastic body located between the pair of rigid rods, wherein the first end of each rigid rod is pivotally connected to the keycap and the second end is slidably mounted on the substrate, or the first end of each rigid rod is slidably mounted to the keycap and the second end is pivotally connected to the substrate.

[0035] Using the above solution, the support component includes a pair of scissor legs or a pair of rigid rods arranged in an X shape. The pair of scissor legs or the pair of rigid rods cooperate with each other to support and balance the keycap.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the substrate has a plurality of second clearance holes spaced apart in the area corresponding to the keycap. On a plane perpendicular to the first direction, the first clearance holes and the plurality of second clearance holes are independent of each other and spaced apart, with the first clearance holes located between the plurality of second clearance holes.

[0037] By adopting the above solution, multiple second clearance holes are provided on the substrate, which makes full use of the space on the substrate and eliminates the need for other wiring layers, which is conducive to thin and light design. Furthermore, the first clearance holes and the second clearance holes do not interfere with each other, ensuring the realization of functions while taking into account the structural strength of the substrate itself, thereby improving the reliability of button applications.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the substrate has a plurality of second clearance holes, including a first mounting hole and a second mounting hole. A first hook portion is provided on the periphery of the first mounting hole, and a second hook portion is provided on the periphery of the second mounting hole. The first hook portion has a first sliding groove, and the second hook portion has a second sliding groove. When the support assembly includes a first scissor leg and a second scissor leg, the second end of the first scissor leg is slidably mounted in the first sliding groove, and the second end of the second scissor leg is slidably mounted in the second sliding groove.

[0039] A second aspect of this application provides a keyboard, including the keys provided by the first aspect above and any possible implementation thereof.

[0040] The keyboard provided in this application embodiment can increase the key travel of each key, ensuring that the keyboard has a sufficiently long key travel while making the overall keyboard thinner and lighter, thereby improving the user experience.

[0041] A third aspect of this application provides an electronic device including the keyboard provided in the second aspect above.

[0042] The electronic device provided in this application embodiment is equipped with the keyboard mentioned above, which can provide users with a good user experience and ensure the reliability of keyboard use.

[0043] A fourth aspect of this application provides an electronic device component, including an electronic device and a keyboard provided in the second aspect above, wherein the keyboard is communicatively connected to the electronic device.

[0044] The electronic device component provided in this application embodiment is equipped with the keyboard mentioned above, which can provide users with a good user experience and ensure the reliability of keyboard use. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1a is a schematic diagram of an electronic device in an application scenario according to an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 1b is a schematic diagram of the electronic device in another application scenario according to an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 1c is a schematic diagram of the electronic device in another application scenario according to an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 2a is an exploded view of the key structure in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 2b is an exploded view of the button structure from another perspective in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 3a is a cross-sectional view of the first scissor position in the button of an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 3b is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first and second scissor pins engaging in the button in an embodiment of this application.

[0052] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the center of the button in an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the elastic body of the button in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a reference design button switching from a standing state to a compressed state;

[0055] Figure 7a is a schematic diagram of the button switching from the standing state to the compressed state in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 7b is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first state when the button is pressed according to an embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 7c is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the second state when the button is pressed according to an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the first clearance hole of the button and the elastomer in an embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 9a is a structural schematic diagram of another implementation of the first clearance hole of the button in an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 9b is a cross-sectional view along the AA direction in Figure 9a;

[0061] Figures 10a-10f are schematic diagrams of the structure of the first clearance hole of the button in the embodiments of this application.

[0062] Reference Design Notation: 300', Key; 310', Keycap; 331', Substrate; 332', Conductive Film; 400', Elastomer; 410', Top; 420', Bottom.

[0063] This application includes: 100a, electronic device; 100b, electronic device assembly; 11, notebook computer; 111, first housing; 112, second housing; 12, desktop computer; 121, data cable; 13, tablet computer; 14, host computer; 15, display screen; 200, keyboard; 300, key; 310, keycap; 311, front; 312, back; 313, center; 314, first pivot; 315, second pivot; 320, support assembly; 321, first scissor-switch leg; 3211, first end; 3212, second end; 322, second scissor-switch leg; 3221, first end; 3222, second end; 330, substrate assembly; 331, substrate; 3311, first surface; 3312, second surface; 3313, first hook portion; 3314, first groove; 3315, Second hook portion; 3316, Second slide groove; 332, Conductive film; 3321, Contact portion; 333, First clearance hole; 3331, First end; 3332, Second end; 3333, First opening; 334, Second clearance hole; 3341, First mounting hole; 3342, Second mounting hole; 400, Elastomer; 410, Top; 411, Top plate; 4111, First groove; 412, Actuating column; 420, Bottom; 421, Opening; 430, Connecting portion; 431, First annular portion; 431a, Upward protrusion; 432, Second annular portion; 432a, Downward protrusion; z, First direction. Detailed Implementation

[0064] The following specific embodiments illustrate the implementation of this application. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of this application from the content disclosed in this specification. Although the description of this application will be presented in conjunction with some embodiments, this does not mean that the features of this application are limited to this embodiment. On the contrary, the purpose of describing the application in conjunction with embodiments is to cover other options or modifications that may be derived based on the claims of this application. To provide a thorough understanding of this application, many specific details will be included in the following description. This application may also be implemented without using these details. Furthermore, to avoid confusion or obscuring the focus of this application, some specific details will be omitted in the description. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other.

[0065] It should be noted that in this specification, similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0066] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application 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. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0067] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" 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 mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0068] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be understood that "electrical connection" in the embodiments of this application can be understood as physical contact and electrical conduction between components; it can also be understood as a form of connection between different components in a circuit structure through physical lines that can transmit electrical signals, such as copper foil or wires on a printed circuit board (PCB). "Communication connection" can refer to electrical signal transmission, including wireless communication connection and wired communication connection. Wireless communication connection does not require a physical medium and is not a connection relationship that limits the product structure.

[0069] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that the mutual perpendicularity in the embodiments of this application is not absolute perpendicularity. Approximate perpendicularity due to processing errors and assembly errors (e.g., the included angle between two structural features is 89°) is also within the range of mutual perpendicularity in the embodiments of this application. Similarly, the mutual parallelism in the embodiments of this application is not absolute parallelism. Approximate parallelism due to processing errors and assembly errors (e.g., the included angle between two structural features is 1°) is also within the range of mutual parallelism in the embodiments of this application. The axial symmetry in the embodiments of this application is not absolute axial symmetry. Approximate axial symmetry due to processing errors and assembly errors (e.g., a portion of the structure is offset by a certain distance or angle relative to the axis of symmetry) is also within the range of axial symmetry in the embodiments of this application. The central symmetry in the embodiments of this application is not absolute central symmetry. Approximate central symmetry due to processing errors and assembly errors (e.g., a portion of the structure is offset by a certain distance or angle relative to the axis of symmetry) is also within the range of central symmetry in the embodiments of this application. The embodiments of this application do not impose specific limitations on this.

[0070] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the implementation methods of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0071] Keyboards are common input devices and essential tools for interacting with electronic devices such as desktop computers, laptops, and tablets. Keyboard performance and appearance are increasingly valued by users, with keyboard thickness, keystroke smoothness, and tactile feedback being key design considerations. Currently, to meet the design demands for thinner and lighter electronic devices, the space occupied by internal electronic components has been minimized. With the thickness of electronic components no longer a limiting factor, the only way to achieve thinner devices is by reducing the thickness of mechanical components such as the keyboard and support frame. This shortens the key travel of each key, thus impacting the user experience. Therefore, a thicker keyboard is detrimental to the thinner and lighter design of electronic devices. Conversely, as keyboards become increasingly thinner, it becomes impossible to guarantee sufficient key travel to ensure user comfort and smoothness, further affecting the user experience.

[0072] Key travel refers to the distance a key travels from its initial position to its lowest point when pressed.

[0073] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a key that, by creating a first clearance hole on the substrate, increases the key travel, ensuring a sufficiently long key travel while maintaining a slim and lightweight keyboard design, thereby improving user feel and experience. Furthermore, by fully utilizing the space freed up by the first clearance hole, both the conductive film and the elastomer can be partially accommodated within the hole. This reduces wear during the compression of the elastomer, thus extending the key's lifespan.

[0074] This application also provides a keyboard that uses this key. It should be noted that the specific number of keys in the keyboard is not limited, and the specific function and structural size of the keys are not limited. Specifically, the keys can be keys with a large aspect ratio (i.e., long keys) or function keys, such as the shift key, space key, enter key, and the "0" and "+" keys on the numeric keypad. They can also be ordinary keys with a small aspect ratio, such as the number keys 1 to 9, the 26 letter keys, etc., or special keys with a special shape, such as the enter key set in an "L" shape.

[0075] In one example, the keyboard is a membrane keyboard, which uses circuits formed between multiple layers of membranes. When a key is pressed, the circuit closes.

[0076] This triggers a signal, which is processed and transmitted to the host computer, ultimately converting it into corresponding characters and commands to fulfill the user's input needs. Membrane keyboards are widely used due to their advantages of being thin, portable, and quiet.

[0077] This application also provides an electronic device that utilizes the keyboard. It should be noted that the electronic device can be a laptop, an ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC), a handheld computer, a mobile terminal, a fixed terminal, or a foldable device, etc. This application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0078] This application also provides an electronic device component that utilizes the keyboard, with the keyboard communicatively connected to the electronic device. It should be noted that the electronic device can be a desktop computer, a tablet computer, a mobile terminal, a fixed terminal, or a foldable device. This application does not impose any limitations on this. The following will describe the application in conjunction with specific application scenarios.

[0079] Please refer to Figures 1a-1c. Figure 1a is a schematic diagram of the electronic device in one application scenario according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 1b is a schematic diagram of the electronic device in another application scenario according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 1c is a schematic diagram of the electronic device in yet another application scenario according to an embodiment of this application.

[0080] As shown in Figure 1a, in one possible implementation, the electronic device 100a is a laptop computer 11. Specifically, the laptop computer 11 may include a first housing 111 and a second housing 112 connected by rotation. The first housing 111 is provided with a display screen 15, and the second housing 112 is provided with a keyboard 200. The first housing 111 and the second housing 112 can be connected by a hinge; alternatively, the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 can be connected by a hinge structure. This embodiment does not limit the specific connection. The keyboard 200 serves as an input device for the laptop computer 11 and is electrically connected to a control unit inside the laptop computer 11. During use, the user can press the keys 300 on the keyboard 200 to input characters or operation commands. The laptop computer 11, based on the input from the keyboard 200, executes a response to the input, thus realizing interaction with the user.

[0081] When the laptop 11 is folded, the angle between the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 can approach 0°, allowing the display screen 15 and keyboard 200 to be close together, and the display screen 15 and keyboard 200 can be accommodated within the cavity formed by the first housing 111 and the second housing 112. When the laptop 11 is opened, the angle between the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 can approach 90° to 180°, allowing the display screen 15 and keyboard 200 to be further apart, so that the display screen 15 and keyboard 200 can both face the user for convenient use.

[0082] As shown in Figure 1b, in one possible implementation, the electronic device component 100b includes an electronic device and a keyboard 200, with the keyboard 200 communicatively connected to the electronic device. This electronic device can be a desktop computer 12. Specifically, the desktop computer 12 may include a display screen 15 and a host computer 14. The display screen 15 and the host computer 14 are independently configured. The display screen 15 and the host computer 14 are electrically connected via a data cable 121 to achieve the display effect of the display screen 15. The keyboard 200, as an input accessory of the electronic device component 100b, can input characters or operation commands. In this case, the keyboard 200 and the host computer 14 can be independently configured. It should be noted that the specific placement of the keyboard 200 is not limited; users can adjust the placement of the keyboard 200 arbitrarily according to their personal usage habits. In one possible implementation, the keyboard 200 and the host 14 are electrically connected via a data cable. In other possible implementations, the keyboard 200 and the host 14 can also be wirelessly connected via a wireless signal (e.g., Bluetooth signal). Alternatively, the keyboard 200 can also be interconnected via a communication network to achieve wireless signal interaction. This communication network can be, but is not limited to, a Wi-Fi hotspot network, a Wi-Fi peer-to-peer (PP) network, a Bluetooth network, a Zigbee network, or a near field communication (NFC) network, etc.

[0083] As shown in Figure 1c, in one possible implementation, the electronic device in electronic device component 100b can be a tablet computer 13. Specifically, similar to a desktop computer, the tablet computer 13 also includes a display screen 15 and a host computer 14, and the display screen 15 and the host computer 14 are not separate but integrated together. The tablet computer 13 and the keyboard 200 can be independent devices. In one example, the tablet computer 13 and the keyboard 200 can be detachable; when in use, the tablet computer 13 is placed on the keyboard 200, and after use, the tablet computer 13 and the keyboard 200 can be separated. Exemplarily, the tablet computer 13 and the keyboard 200 can be electrically connected via contacts (not shown). Alternatively, the tablet computer 13 and the keyboard 200 can be electrically connected via a data cable. Alternatively, the tablet computer 13 and the keyboard 200 can also be wirelessly connected via a wireless signal (e.g., Bluetooth). Alternatively, the tablet computer 13 and the keyboard 200 can also be communicatively connected via a communication network.

[0084] The preceding text mainly introduced the usage scenarios and connection methods of the keyboard 200. The following text will provide an exemplary description of the specific structure of the keyboard 200. It should be noted that the keyboard 200 includes multiple keys 300 arranged in rows and columns. While the structures of the different keys 300 are roughly the same, their functions differ. Therefore, pressing each key 300 establishes an internal electrical connection, thereby enabling the function to be activated and transmitting input commands to the host 14 of the electronic device 100a to execute the user's instructions. The following text will first explain the basic structure of a single key 300.

[0085] Please refer to Figures 2a-4. Figure 2a is an exploded view of the button structure in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2b is an exploded view of the button structure from another perspective in an embodiment of this application. Figure 3a is a cross-sectional view of the first scissor pin position in an embodiment of this application. Figure 3b is a structural schematic diagram of the cooperation between the first scissor pin and the second scissor pin in an embodiment of this application. Figure 4 is a central cross-sectional view of the button in an embodiment of this application.

[0086] As shown in Figures 2a and 2b, the key 300 includes a keycap 310, a support component 320, and a substrate component 330 stacked sequentially along a first direction z. The keycap 310 is pressable by the user, and the support component 320 supports the keycap 310 relative to the substrate component 330 in the first direction z. That is, when the key 300 is pressed, the keycap 310 moves towards the substrate component 330 in the first direction z; when the keycap 310 is released, it moves away from the substrate component 330 in the first direction z. It should be noted that the specific structure and material of the keycap 310 are not limited in this embodiment. Those skilled in the art can design and manufacture it according to production needs and user requirements. In one possible implementation, the keycap 310 can be an injection-molded part, facilitating mass production.

[0087] It should be noted that, as shown in Figure 2b, the front 311 of the keycap 310 refers to the side of the keycap 310 facing the user, and the back 312 of the keycap 310 is set opposite to its front 311.

[0088] It should be noted that the first direction z is the pressing direction of button 300. In one possible implementation, the first direction z is the thickness direction of button 300. This embodiment of the application does not limit this.

[0089] As shown in Figures 2a and 4, the substrate assembly 330 includes a conductive film 332 and a substrate 331 stacked along a first direction z. The conductive film 332 is located on the side of the substrate 331 facing the support assembly 320 and has a contact portion 3321. The substrate 331 has a first surface 3311 and a second surface 3312 disposed opposite to each other along the first direction z, with the first surface 3311 facing the conductive film 332.

[0090] It should be noted that, in one possible implementation, the base plate 331 of each key 300 in the keyboard 200 can be integrally formed, that is, the keyboard 200 is provided with only one base plate 331, and then independent keycaps 310 and support components 320 are arranged in the corresponding areas of each key 300. Using this type of base plate 331 is beneficial to improving the structural reliability of the base plate 331, enhancing the stability of the connection between the base plates 331 corresponding to each key 300, thereby improving the reliability of the keyboard 200, and also improving the installation efficiency of each key 300 and the keyboard 200.

[0091] In other possible implementations, the substrates 331 of each key 300 within the keyboard 200 may be configured as a single integrated structure, a separate structure, or all substrates 331 may be configured as separate structures. Those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments of this application do not limit the specific structure and connection method of the substrates 331.

[0092] As shown in Figures 1a to 1c, in one possible implementation, the keyboard 200 may further include a housing, on which the keys 300 are mounted. Referring to Figure 4, the base plate 331 of the keys 300 is fixed to the housing; for example, the base plate 331 can be screwed into the housing of the keyboard 200 and located within the cavity enclosed by the housing.

[0093] It should be noted that the specific implementation of the keyboard 200 housing is not limited. In one possible implementation, as shown in Figure 1a and understood in conjunction with Figure 4, when the keyboard 200 is applied to the electronic device 100a, the housing of the electronic device 100a can be reused as the housing of the keyboard 200. For example, the second housing 112 of the laptop 11 can be reused as the housing of the keyboard 200. The substrate 331 is located in the cavity enclosed by the second housing 112 and can be fixed to the upper shell portion of the second housing 112 (which can be understood as the portion of the second housing 112 facing the user when the laptop 11 is in the open state).

[0094] In another possible implementation, as shown in Figure 1a, the housing of the keyboard 200 and the housing of the electronic device 100a can be set independently of each other, with the housing of the keyboard 200 fixed to the housing of the electronic device 100a.

[0095] In another possible implementation, as shown in Figures 1b and 1c, when the keyboard 200 is applied to the electronic device component 100b, the housing of the keyboard 200 is set independently from the housing of the electronic device.

[0096] As shown in Figures 2a and 4, furthermore, the material of the substrate 331 is not limited in the embodiments of this application. In one possible implementation, the substrate 331 is a rigid metal plate.

[0097] As shown in Figures 2a and 4, in one possible implementation, the substrate 331 is provided with a plurality of second clearance holes 334 at intervals in the area corresponding to the keycap 310. That is, the substrate 331 is provided with a plurality of second clearance holes 334, which can make full use of the space on the substrate 331 without the need to set other wiring layers, which is beneficial for thin and light design.

[0098] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the number and size of the second clearance holes 334 are not limited, and can be specifically set according to functional needs, or they can be omitted.

[0099] It is understandable that the button 300 achieves functional conduction through the internal conductive film 332. That is, during the pressing of the button 300, the conductive film 332 is electrically connected, thereby triggering a signal. The following will describe the possible structure of the conductive film 332 in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0100] In one possible implementation, as shown in FIG2a, the conductive film 332 may also have an opening at the position corresponding to the second clearance hole 334 on the substrate 331, ensuring that the device within the second clearance hole 334 has sufficient mounting space, which also helps to save costs. In other possible implementations, the conductive film 332 may not have an opening at the position corresponding to the second clearance hole 334 on the substrate 331, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0101] As shown in Figure 4, the conductive film 332 has contact portions 3321, which allow the circuit on the conductive film 332 to be closed through the contact portions 3321 during the pressing of the button 300. That is, pressing the keycap 310 transmits the user's pressure to the contact portions 3321 on the conductive film 332, thereby closing the circuit on the conductive film 332 and triggering the function signal of the button 300. Specifically, the position and size of the contact portions 3321 are not limited, and those skilled in the art can design them according to actual needs.

[0102] Furthermore, the specific structure of the conductive film 332 is not limited. In one possible implementation, the conductive film 332 includes a first film and a second film stacked together, which can be made of resin or a soft material. This application embodiment does not limit this. Conductive lines are provided on the opposite sides of the two films. As shown in Figure 4, when the keycap 310 is pressed, the elastic body 400 is compressed and deformed. When the actuating post 412 of the elastic body 400 abuts against the contact portion 3321 of the conductive film 332, the electrical contacts corresponding to the first film and the second film make contact to achieve electrical connection, thereby closing the internal circuit of the key 300 and triggering the function signal. When the keycap 310 is released, under the action of the elastic body 400 and the film itself, the elastic body 400 and the film reset, and the electrical contacts corresponding to the first film and the second film separate, thereby disconnecting the internal circuit of the key 300. The specific structure of the elastic body 400 will be described later in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0103] In other possible implementations, the conductive film 332 may have an independent switch as a contact portion 3321, such as a touch switch. When the keycap 310 is pressed, the elastic body 400 is compressed and deformed, and the actuating post 412 of the elastic body 400 abuts against the independent switch, thereby closing the internal circuit of the key 300. When the keycap 310 is released, the independent switch will reset, thereby opening the internal circuit of the key 300.

[0104] In one possible implementation, the conductive film 332 can be securely connected to the substrate 331 by means of adhesive bonding, snap-fitting, or other methods. Alternatively, during the assembly of the substrate assembly 330, the conductive film 332 can be assembled with the substrate 331 first, followed by the assembly of the substrate 331 with the support assembly 320. In one example, the conductive film 332 can be pre-assembled with the substrate 331 using adhesive, followed by the pre-assembly of the substrate 331 and the support assembly 320, and finally the substrate 331 and the keycap 310 are fixed.

[0105] The above mainly describes the keycap 310 and the base plate assembly 330 of the key 300. The following will describe the support assembly 320 of the key 300 with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0106] It should be noted that the specific structure of the support component 320 is not limited. As shown in Figures 3a and 3b, in one possible implementation, the support component 320 includes a first scissor leg 321 and a second scissor leg 322 that are pivotally connected to each other. The two ends of the first scissor leg 321 are movably connected to the substrate 331 and the keycap 310, respectively, and the two ends of the second scissor leg 322 are movably connected to the substrate 331 and the keycap 310, respectively.

[0107] In one example, the first scissor-switch leads 321 and 322 are arranged in an X-shape. Specifically, the first end 3211 of the first scissor-switch lead 321 is pivotally connected to the keycap 310, and the second end 3212 of the first scissor-switch lead 321 is slidably mounted on the substrate 331. The first end 3221 of the first scissor-switch lead 322 is pivotally connected to the keycap 310, and the second end 3222 of the second scissor-switch lead 322 is slidably mounted on the substrate 331. The axes of the first end 3211 of the first scissor-switch lead 321 and the first end 3221 of the second scissor-switch lead 322 are parallel to each other. During the up-and-down movement of the keycap 310 relative to the substrate 331, the sliding directions of the second ends 3212 of the first scissor-switch lead 321 and 3222 of the second scissor-switch lead 322 are opposite and both perpendicular to the first direction z. For example, when pressing the keycap 310, the second ends 3212 of the first scissor-switch leg 321 and 3222 of the second scissor-switch leg 322 slide in opposite directions away from each other. When releasing the keycap 310, the second ends 3212 of the first scissor-switch leg 321 and 3222 of the second scissor-switch leg 322 slide in opposite directions towards each other. Therefore, the first scissor-switch leg 321 and the second scissor-switch leg 322 work together to support and balance the keycap 310.

[0108] As shown in Figure 3b, when the first scissor-switch leg 321 and the second scissor-switch leg 322 are configured, the first scissor-switch leg 321 is an inner ring structure, and the second scissor-switch leg 322 is an outer ring structure. The first scissor-switch leg 321 is pivotally connected to the inner side of the second scissor-switch leg 322. As shown in Figures 2b and 3a, the back 312 of the keycap 310 is provided with a first pivot seat 314 and a second pivot seat 315. The first end 3211 of the first scissor-switch leg 321 is pivotally connected to the keycap 310 through the first pivot seat 314. The first surface 3311 of the substrate 331 is provided with a first hook portion 3313. The first hook portion 3313 has a first sliding groove 3314, and the second end 3212 of the first scissor-switch leg 321 is slidably mounted in the first sliding groove 3314. Correspondingly, the first end 3221 of the second scissor-switch leg 322 is pivotally connected to the keycap 310 via the second pivot seat 315. The first surface 3311 of the substrate 331 is provided with a second hook portion 3315, which has a second groove 3316. The second end 3222 of the second scissor-switch leg 322 is slidably mounted in the second groove 3316. This facilitates the assembly of the first scissor-switch leg 321 and the second scissor-switch leg 322 between the substrate 331 and the keycap 310.

[0109] It should be noted that in other examples, the first end 3211 of the first scissor-switch leg 321 may be pivotally connected to the keycap 310, and the second end 3212 of the first scissor-switch leg 321 may be slidably mounted on the substrate 331. The first end of the second scissor-switch leg 322 may be slidably mounted on the keycap 310, and the second end of the second scissor-switch leg 322 may be slidably mounted on the substrate 331.

[0110] As shown in Figures 2a and 2b, in one possible implementation, the plurality of second clearance holes 334 on the substrate 331 include a first mounting hole 3341 and a second mounting hole 3342. A first hook portion 3313 is provided on the periphery of the first mounting hole 3341, and a second hook portion 3315 is provided on the periphery of the second mounting hole 3342. The first hook portion 3313 has a first sliding groove 3314, and the second hook portion 3315 has a second sliding groove 3316.

[0111] In other possible implementations, the support assembly 320 may include a pair of rigid rods (not shown in the figure), wherein the first end of each rigid rod is pivotally connected to the keycap 310 and the second end is slidably mounted on the substrate 331; or, the first end of each rigid rod is slidably mounted on the keycap 310 and the second end is pivotally connected to the substrate 331. Alternatively, the support assembly 320 may include a pair of rigid rods arranged in a butterfly shape, with the first end of each rigid rod pivotally connected to the keycap 310 and the second end slidably mounted on the substrate 331, and an elastic body 400 located between the pairs of rigid rods. In a single rigid rod, the axes at the first and second ends of the rigid rod are parallel to each other. During the up-and-down movement of the keycap 310 relative to the substrate 331, the first end of the rigid rod rotates relative to the keycap 310, and the second end slides relative to the substrate 331. The paired rigid rods cooperate to support and balance the keycap 310.

[0112] When assembling the rigid rod, the back 312 of the keycap 310 is provided with multiple pivot seats for pivoting the first end of the rigid rod. The base plate 331 is provided with multiple sliding grooves for sliding assembly of the second ends of different rigid rods. This facilitates the assembly of the rigid rod between the base plate 331 and the keycap 310.

[0113] It should be noted that the specific structure of the rigid rod is not limited in the embodiments of this application. In one possible implementation, the rigid rod is a circular rod.

[0114] The above mainly introduced the telescopic structure (e.g., scissor-leg structure, rigid rod structure) in the support assembly 320. The following will elaborate on the structure of the elastic body 400 in the support assembly 320 and the various possible implementation methods for its cooperation with other parts, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0115] Please refer to Figure 5, which is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the elastic body of the button in an embodiment of this application.

[0116] As shown in Figures 2a, 2b, and 4 to 5, the support assembly 320 also includes an elastic body 400 located between the conductive film 332 and the keycap 310. The elastic body 400 includes a top 410 and a bottom 420; the top 410 connects to the keycap 310, and the bottom 420 can connect to the substrate assembly 330. When the keycap 310 is pressed, the elastic body 400 is compressed. The compressed top 410 of the elastic body 400 abuts against the contact portion 3321 of the conductive film 332 when the keycap 310 is pressed. In this way, the elastic body 400 is compressed and stores energy when the keycap 310 is pressed, closing the circuit of the contact portion 3321 on the conductive film 332, thus enabling functional conduction. When released, the elastic body 400 allows the keycap 310 to return to its original position.

[0117] It should be noted that the specific structure of the top 410 of the elastomer 400 is not limited. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, in one possible implementation, the top 410 of the elastomer 400 may include a top plate 411 and an actuating post 412. The actuating post 412 extends from the inner surface of the top plate 411 toward the conductive film 332 and is used to abut against the contact portion 3321 of the conductive film 332.

[0118] It should be noted that the length of the actuating post 412 in the first direction z is not limited, and those skilled in the art can reasonably set it according to the function of the button 300. Furthermore, the shape and size of the actuating post 412 are not limited; in one possible implementation, the actuating post 412 is a cylinder.

[0119] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the outer surface of the top plate 411 in the elastomer 400 is provided with a first groove 4111. That is, when the keycap 310 is pressed down, due to the elastic deformation of the elastomer 400, the back surface 312 of the keycap 310 and the top surface 410 of the elastomer 400 have a relatively large pressing surface, so that the pressure passing through the keycap 310 is evenly transmitted to the top surface 410 of the elastomer 400. This is beneficial for the elastomer 400 to undergo stable compression deformation and improves the repeatability of the deformation of the elastomer 400.

[0120] It should be noted that the relative position of the elastomer 400 to the telescopic structure mentioned above is not limited. As shown in Figures 3a and 3b, in one possible implementation, the elastomer 400 passes through the middle of the first scissor arm 321 and the middle of the second scissor arm 322. In this case, the elastomer 400 can work with the first scissor arm 321 and the second scissor arm 322 to support the keycap 310. Simultaneously, the elastomer 400 has sufficient space to store energy during the pressing of the key 300, ensuring that the elastomer 400 stably provides rebound force and improving the reliability of the keycap 300. In another possible implementation, the elastomer 400 is located between a pair of rigid rods, and the elastomer 400 can work with the pair of rigid rods to support the keycap 310.

[0121] It should be noted that the material of the elastomer 400 is not limited in this application embodiment. In one possible implementation, the elastomer 400 is made of silicone, which provides a better comfortable rebound force, good durability, and is not prone to aging. In other possible implementations, the elastomer 400 is made of rubber, which provides a good pressing feel and is easy to process and recycle.

[0122] Furthermore, the relative positional relationship between the top 410 and the bottom 420 of the elastomer 400 is not limited. In one possible implementation, the projection of the top 410 of the elastomer 400 onto the keycap 310 lies within the projection of the bottom 420 onto the keycap 310. In one example, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the elastomer 400 is configured as a hollow frustum-shaped structure. A frustum-shaped structure refers to a three-dimensional structure located between two parallel planes after a cone, elliptical cone, or prismatic pyramid is truncated by two parallel planes. Depending on whether the truncated cone is a cone, elliptical cone, or prismatic pyramid, frustums can be classified as frustums of a cylinder, elliptical frustums, or prismatic pyramids. Furthermore, the edges of the prismatic pyramid can be rounded. With this structure, the top 410 of the elastomer 400 has a smaller area, allowing it to fully contact the inner surface of the keycap 310. This also helps to cooperate with other support components 320 (such as the first scissor legs 321 and the second scissor legs 322) to support and stabilize the keycap 310. Meanwhile, the bottom 420 has a larger area, and the elastomer 400 has a hollow structure, which allows it to be better fixed on the base plate assembly 330. When the key 300 is pressed down, the elastomer 400 itself has enough deformation space to better engage the contact part 3321, realize functional conduction, and improve the accuracy of the user's use of the key 300.

[0123] As shown in Figure 5, the frustum-shaped elastomer 400 refers to the elastomer 400 having an appearance that is approximately frustum-shaped. The bottom of the frustum may have an opening 421. The transverse cross-section of the elastomer 400 can be circular, elliptical, polygonal, rounded rectangle, etc., and this embodiment does not limit this. In one example, as shown in Figure 5, the elastomer 400 is a frustum-shaped cone with an opening 421, that is, both the top 410 and the bottom 420 are circular, the diameter of the top 410 is smaller than the diameter of the bottom 420, and the bottom 420 has an opening 421. In this way, during the compression process, by squeezing the top 410, the compressed part of the hollow frustum-shaped elastomer 400 can be partially accommodated in the opening 421. On the one hand, this helps to increase the contact area of ​​the elastic part, thereby releasing some elastic force to other contacting components (here, the conductive film 332 in the substrate assembly 330), reducing the wear of the elastomer 400. On the other hand, it helps to increase the key travel and improve the user experience.

[0124] As shown in Figure 5, and in conjunction with Figures 7a-7c for further understanding, in one possible implementation, the elastomer 400 further includes a ring-shaped connecting portion 430, which connects the top 410 and the bottom 420. The connecting portion 430 includes a first ring-shaped portion 431 and a second ring-shaped portion 432. The first ring-shaped portion 431 is the part of the elastomer 400 that protrudes upward after being compressed and contacts the keycap 310, and the second ring-shaped portion 432 is the part of the elastomer 400 that protrudes downward after being compressed and contacts the conductive film 332. The ring-shaped structure of the connecting portion 430 facilitates elastic deformation of the elastomer 400, causing this portion to be compressed, thereby increasing the stroke. Alternatively, it can be understood that the elastomer 400 is configured with a top 410, a first ring-shaped portion 431, a second ring-shaped portion 432, and a bottom 420 connected in sequence, with the bottom 420 having an opening 421. In one possible implementation, the top 410, the first annular portion 431, the second annular portion 432, and the upper bottom 420 can be an integrally formed structure.

[0125] Specifically, when the keycap 310 is pressed so that the actuating post 412 of the elastic body 400 abuts against the contact portion 3321, the first annular portion 431 protrudes towards the keycap 310 to form an upward protrusion portion 431a, and the second annular portion 432 protrudes towards the substrate assembly 330 to form a downward protrusion portion 432a. With this structure, the elastic body 400 inside the key 300 can fully contact the keycap 310 and the substrate assembly 330, effectively transmitting force, ensuring the smoothness of the user's keystroke process, and improving the user experience.

[0126] The above mainly introduced the basic structure of key 300. It can be understood that the support component 320 is the main structural component for enabling key 300 to conduct its function. By pressing the keycap 310, the elastic body 400 undergoes elastic deformation, and the actuating post 412 of the elastic body 400 closes the circuit on the conductive film 332, thus achieving functional conduction. However, with the overall goal of making the keyboard 200 thinner and lighter, the thickness of each key 300 must also become thinner, resulting in a shorter key travel, which affects the user experience. The following section, with reference to the accompanying drawings, details a reference design solution.

[0127] Please refer to Figure 6, which is a schematic diagram of a button switching from a standing state to a compressed state in a reference design.

[0128] As shown in Figure 6, the keycap 310', elastomer 400', conductive film 332', and substrate 331' are stacked in the first direction z' of the key 300'. The top 410' of the elastomer 400' is in contact with the keycap 310', and the bottom 420' of the elastomer 400' is in contact with the conductive film 332'. As shown in Figure 6, when the keycap 310' is not pressed (i.e., the elastomer 400' is in an upright position), there is a first gap C' between the keycap 310' and the conductive film 332'. As shown in Figure 6, when the keycap 310' is pressed (i.e., the elastic body 400' is in a compressed state), the elastic body 400' is compressed and deformed. When the top 410' of the elastic body 400' abuts against the conductive film 332' and the elastic body 400' can no longer be compressed, there is a second gap C1' between the keycap 310' and the conductive film 332', and the key travel (i.e., key stroke) R' is C'-C1'. However, with this structure, during the pressing of the keycap 310', because the elastic body 400' is restricted by the substrate 331', it cannot continue to deform and move downward after the elastic body 400' is compressed to a certain extent, thus making the key travel shorter.

[0129] Therefore, given the design requirement of making the keyboard 200' thinner and lighter (i.e., C' is smaller), it is impossible to guarantee that the keyboard has a sufficiently long key travel.

[0130] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, when the keycap 310' is pressed, the elastomer 400' is compressed and deformed. Specifically, the outer surface of the elastomer 400' will elastically abut against the inner surface of the keycap 310', for example at position A'. This position is prone to interference with the keycap 310' and fatigue cracking. In addition, the inner surface of the elastomer 400' will elastically abut against the upper surface of the conductive film 332', for example at position B'. This position is prone to interference and compression cracking with the conductive film 332'. At this time, positions A' and B' are in hard contact. Therefore, during the repeated compression of the elastomer 400', fatigue damage to the elastomer 400' will occur, affecting the service life of the keycap 300'.

[0131] To address this issue, this application provides a key 300. By providing a first clearance hole 333, it is possible to ensure a sufficiently long key travel while maintaining a thin and lightweight keyboard design, thereby improving the user's feel and experience. Furthermore, by fully utilizing the space freed up inside the key 300 structure, both the conductive film 332 and the elastomer 400 can be accommodated within the first clearance hole 333. This reduces wear during the compression of the elastomer 400, thus extending the lifespan of both the elastomer 400 and the key 300.

[0132] Please refer to Figures 7a-7c. Figure 7a is a schematic diagram of the button switching from the standing state to the compressed state in an embodiment of this application. Figure 7b is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first state when the button is pressed in an embodiment of this application. Figure 7c is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the second state when the button is pressed in an embodiment of this application.

[0133] As shown in Figure 7a, the substrate 331 has a first clearance hole 333 in the area corresponding to the elastomer 400. When the keycap 310 is pressed, the elastomer 400 is compressed, and the compressed elastomer 400 forces the conductive film 332 to bulge toward the first clearance hole 333. The top 410 of the compressed elastomer 400 abuts between the keycap 310 and the contact portion 3321 of the conductive film 332. The protruding portion of the conductive film 332 is accommodated in the first clearance hole 333 (see Figure 7b), or the protruding portion of the conductive film 332 and the portion of the compressed elastomer 400 are accommodated in the first clearance hole 333 (see Figure 7c).

[0134] As shown in Figure 7a, when the keycap 310 is not pressed, there is a first gap C between the keycap 310 and the conductive film 332. When the keycap 310 is pressed, the elastic body 400 is compressed to a certain extent. Because it has a first clearance hole 333 below and is not restricted by the substrate 331, the compressed elastic body 400 can squeeze the conductive film 332 to deform (i.e., bulge towards the first clearance hole 333). This allows the conductive film 332 to be located inside the first clearance hole 333, or the conductive film 332 and the compressed elastic body 400 to be located inside the first clearance hole 333. The thickness of the conductive film 332 and the elastic body 400 pressed into the first clearance hole 333 can be understood as the increased travel R of the key 300. This can be understood as follows: the compressed elastomer 400 and the deformed portion of the squeezed conductive film 332 can be accommodated in the first clearance hole 333 on the substrate 331, which can reduce the distance C1 between the keycap 310 and the conductive film 332. Furthermore, the elastomer 400 will be compressed more completely, that is, the thickness of the elastomer 400 at the maximum compression will be smaller, which can also reduce the second gap C1 between the keycap 310 and the conductive film 332.

[0135] Therefore, as shown in Figures 6 and 7a, when the thickness of the button 300 is uniform, i.e., C = C', this embodiment of the application can reduce C1 by opening the first clearance hole 333, making C1 smaller than C1'. The pressing stroke of the button 300 is R = C - C1, so the pressing stroke of the button 300 can be increased. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 6 and 7a, the elastic compression is higher at positions A (where the outer surface of the elastomer 400 elastically abuts against the inner surface of the keycap 310) and B (where the inner surface of the elastomer 400 elastically abuts against the upper surface of the conductive film 332). However, the compression force at position A can be released through the elastomer 400 and the displaced conductive film 332, thereby helping to reduce elastic wear at positions A and B and improve the service life of the elastomer 400 and the button 300.

[0136] Therefore, by opening the first clearance hole 333 on the substrate 331, the conductive film 332 and the compressed elastomer 400 can be accommodated within the first clearance hole 333. On the one hand, while keeping the thickness of the key 300 unchanged, by releasing its internal space, the pressing stroke of the key 300 is further increased, which can bring more comfortable feedback to the user, thereby improving the comfort and smoothness of the user when pressing the key 300 and enhancing the user experience. This helps the keyboard 200 to have a sufficiently long key travel while maintaining its thinness. At the same time, the displacement of the conductive film 332 and the compressed elastomer 400 in the first clearance hole 333 can increase the maximum compression of the elastomer 400 when the keycap 310 is pressed, thereby increasing the rebound force provided by the elastomer 400 to the keycap 310, providing the user with clearer key feedback, allowing the user to input commands more easily and smoothly, and improving the user experience of the key 300. On the other hand, by opening the first clearance hole 333 on the substrate 331, the elastomer 400 is directly and effectively provided with a travel distance toward the substrate 331 in the first direction z. Therefore, while ensuring that the pressing travel of the key 300 meets the user's tactile feedback, the thickness of the keyboard 200 can be reduced. For example, by reducing the thickness of the keycap 310 or the support component 320, the pressing travel of the key 300 will not be reduced, thereby promoting the thinner and lighter design of the key 300 and the keyboard 200.

[0137] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 7a-7c, the first clearance hole 333 can provide redundant space for the contact portion 3321 on the conductive film 332. That is, when there are impurities (e.g., small particles such as sawdust and dust) on the surface of the conductive film 332, due to the first clearance hole 333, the impurities will not squeeze the contact portion 3321 on the conductive film 332 and can directly achieve functional conduction, thereby improving the reliability and accuracy of the button 300.

[0138] Furthermore, when the elastomer 400 is compressed, part of it bulges upward to press against the inner surface of the keycap 310, as shown in Figure 7c. When the elastomer 400 is compressed to its maximum compression state, the conductive film 332 and the compressed elastomer 400 can be located within the first clearance hole 333. This allows the pressure generated by the extrusion contact between the outer surface of the elastomer 400 and the inner surface of the keycap 310 to be released along the elastic deformation of the elastomer 400 toward the first clearance hole 333. In addition, the pressure generated by the contact between the inner surface of the elastomer 400 and the surface of the conductive film 332 will also be reduced due to the bending deformation of the conductive film 332 toward the first clearance hole 333.

[0139] In simple terms, as shown in Figures 7b and 7c, the upward protrusion 431a of the first annular portion 431 of the elastic body 400 of the button 300 (i.e., position A in Figure 7a) makes hard contact with the back surface 312 of the keycap 310 through elastic compression. However, the elastic force can be transmitted to the second annular portion 432 and the conductive film 332 for a certain degree of release, making the elastic body 400 less prone to wear. Furthermore, the downward protrusion 432a of the second annular portion 432 (i.e., position B in Figure 7a) makes soft contact with the substrate assembly 330 through elastic compression, making the elastic body 400 less prone to wear. Therefore, by opening the first clearance hole 333 on the substrate 331, the fatigue failure of the elastic body 400 caused by the mutual compression between the elastic body 400 and the substrate assembly 330 can be reduced, thereby reducing the wear of the elastic body 400 and increasing the service life of the button 300.

[0140] In summary, the key 300 provided in this embodiment of the application can ensure a sufficiently long key travel while maintaining the thin and light design of the keyboard 200, i.e., with each key 300 on the keyboard 200 being relatively thin, thereby improving the user's feel and user experience. Furthermore, by fully utilizing the space released by the first clearance hole 333 in the key 300, both the conductive film 332 and the elastomer 400 can be partially accommodated within the first clearance hole 333. This reduces wear during the compression of the elastomer 400, thereby extending the service life of both the elastomer 400 and the key 300.

[0141] It should be noted that the specific placement of the first clearance hole 333 and the elastomer 400 is not limited. In one possible implementation, as shown in Figures 4 and 7c, the first clearance hole 333 extends from the first surface 3311 of the substrate 331 towards the second surface 3312, and the first clearance hole 333 has a first opening 3333 located on the first surface 3311 of the substrate 331, and the projection of the elastomer 400 on the first surface 3311 of the substrate 331 is entirely located within the first opening 3333. In this way, the elastomer 400 can be partially accommodated within the first clearance hole 333 during compression. The specific structure of the first clearance hole 333 will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0142] As shown in Figures 7b and 7c, and for further understanding in conjunction with Figures 8 and 9a, in one possible implementation, the wall surface of the first clearance hole 333 is entirely located on the outer periphery of the elastic body 400 in a plane perpendicular to the first direction z. That is, during the pressing of the button 300, the continuously compressed elastic body 400 can partially displace into the first clearance hole 333, meaning the first clearance hole 333 can partially enclose the elastic body 400. This allows the elastic body 400 to move entirely within the first clearance hole 333 along the first direction z during the button press process, which helps to increase the travel distance and improve the user experience.

[0143] In other possible implementations, the wall of the first clearance hole 333 can also be partially located on the outer periphery of the elastic body 400. That is, a portion of the wall of the first clearance hole 333 near the first opening 3333 is located on the outer periphery of the elastic body 400, allowing the continuously compressed elastic body 400 to still partially displace into the first clearance hole 333. The wall of the first clearance hole 333 is partially located within the projection area of ​​the elastic body 400 on the first plane (in one example, see Figure 10c, where the portion of the first clearance hole 333 away from the first opening 3333 can be located within the projection area of ​​the elastic body 400 on the first plane), which can improve the structural reliability of the first clearance hole 333. Here, the first plane is a plane perpendicular to the first direction z.

[0144] Further, as shown in Figures 7b and 7c, in one possible implementation, the shape of the first clearance hole 333 matches the shape of the bottom 420 of the elastomer 400. In this case, the structural design of the first clearance hole 333 is simple, allowing for better coordination with the movement of the elastomer 400, simplifying the manufacturing process, and simultaneously controlling the area occupied by the first clearance hole 333 on the substrate 331, while also considering the structural strength of the substrate 331 and ensuring reliability. It should be noted that the specific shape of the first clearance hole 333 is not limited. In one example, the elastomer 400 is frustum-shaped, i.e., the bottom 420 is circular. In this case, the first clearance hole 333 can be configured as a circular hole to match the bottom 420 of the elastomer 400, and there is a uniform gap between the first clearance hole 333 and the bottom 420 of the elastomer 400, i.e., the center of the first clearance hole 333 coincides with or approximately coincides with the center of the bottom 420 of the elastomer 400, which can better realize the displacement of the elastomer 400 in the first direction z.

[0145] In other possible implementations, the shape of the first clearance hole 333 may not match the shape of the bottom 420 of the elastomer 400. In one example, the outer wall of the bottom 420 of the elastomer 400 is circular. In this case, the shape of the first clearance hole 333 is not limited. Specifically, the first opening 3333 in the first clearance hole 333 can be square, elliptical, polygonal, etc. Those skilled in the art can design it according to the actual situation.

[0146] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7c, in one possible implementation, the projection of the first clearance hole 333 onto the keycap 310 is located at the center 313 of the keycap 310, so that the center of the first clearance hole 333 coincides with the center of the keycap 310 in the first direction z. This improves the smoothness of the user's keystrokes 300, thereby enhancing the user experience. In other possible implementations, the projection of the first clearance hole 333 onto the keycap 310 may only be partially located at the center 313 of the keycap 310, or it may not be located at the center 313. This application embodiment does not impose any limitations on this. The center 313 of the keycap 310 can be understood as the area where the center of the keycap 310 is located.

[0147] It should be noted that, in one possible implementation, as shown in Figures 2a and 4, the first clearance hole 333 can be independently and spaced apart from multiple second clearance holes 334 on a plane perpendicular to the first direction z, with the first clearance hole 333 located between the multiple second clearance holes 334. In this case, the first clearance hole 333 and the second clearance holes 334 do not interfere with each other, ensuring functional implementation while also taking into account the structural strength of the substrate 331 itself, thus improving the reliability of the button 300 application.

[0148] In other possible implementations, the first clearance hole 333 may share an opening with a portion of the second clearance holes 334, or the portion of the second clearance holes 334 may be independently configured with respect to the first clearance hole 333. This application does not impose any limitations on this. In one example, the first clearance hole 333 may share an opening with either the first mounting hole 3341 or the second mounting hole 3342. In this case, a hook portion is provided on its periphery to cooperate with relevant components in the support assembly 320.

[0149] The above text mainly describes the specific functions and configuration of the first clearance hole 333. The following text will introduce the specific structure of the first clearance hole 333.

[0150] Please refer to Figures 8-9b. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the positional relationship between the first clearance hole 333 of the button 300 and the elastic body 400 in an embodiment of this application. Figure 9a is a structural schematic diagram of another implementation of the first clearance hole 333 of the button 300 in an embodiment of this application. Figure 9b is a cross-sectional view along the AA direction in Figure 9a.

[0151] Those skilled in the art will understand that the specific structure of the first clearance hole 333 is not limited in the embodiments of this application, and therefore designers can make specific choices according to actual needs.

[0152] As shown in Figures 4 and 8, in one possible implementation, the first clearance hole 333 is a through hole, that is, the first clearance hole 333 extends from the first surface 3311 of the substrate 331 to the second surface 3312. In this case, the first clearance hole 333 also has a second opening located on the second surface 3312 of the substrate 331. This allows the button 300 to have a greater stroke during pressing, and it is simple to manufacture and has low cost.

[0153] As shown in Figures 9a and 9b, in another possible implementation, the first clearance hole 333 is a blind hole. This can increase the pressing stroke of the key 300 while also taking into account the overall structural strength of the substrate 331 and improving the reliability of the keyboard.

[0154] Please refer to Figures 10a-10f, which are schematic diagrams of the structure of the first clearance hole of the button in the embodiment of this application.

[0155] As shown in Figures 10a-10f, the extension path of the first clearance hole 333 in the first direction is not limited, and those skilled in the art can set it reasonably according to actual needs. Specifically, the first clearance hole 333 has a first end 3331 and a second end 3332 arranged opposite to each other in the first direction z. The first end 3331 is the first opening 3333. In one possible implementation, as shown in Figures 10a and 10b, the first clearance hole 333 extends from its first end 3331 along a straight line to the second end 3332, which is beneficial for processing, saves production costs, and ensures structural stability.

[0156] Furthermore, the embodiments of this application do not limit the extension direction of the straight line. In one possible implementation, as shown in FIG10a, the first clearance hole 333 extends from its first end 3331 along a straight line to its second end 3332, and the straight line is parallel to the first direction z. In this case, the structure of the first clearance hole 333 is simple, which is beneficial to shortening the process flow. In another possible implementation, as shown in FIG10b, the first clearance hole 333 extends from its first end 3331 along a straight line to its second end 3332, and the straight line is inclined relative to the first direction z.

[0157] In other possible implementations, as shown in FIG10c, the first clearance hole 333 extends from its first end 3331 along a zigzag line to its second end 3332. Specifically, the number of zigzag lines is not limited in this embodiment. Alternatively, as shown in FIG10d-FIG., the first clearance hole 333 extends from its first end 3331 along a curve to its second end 3332. Those skilled in the art will understand that the specific processing technology and processing precision of the first clearance hole 333 are not limited in this embodiment. The curve may be, for example, a wavy line as shown in FIG10d, or an arc arching towards the center of the clearance hole as shown in FIG10e, or an arc arching away from the center of the clearance hole as shown in FIG10f. This is beneficial to the processing of the first clearance hole and can better take into account the structural strength of the periphery of the first clearance hole 333, thereby ensuring the structural strength of the substrate 331 and improving the reliability of the button 300.

[0158] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A button, characterized in that, The device includes a keycap, a support assembly, and a substrate assembly stacked sequentially along a first direction, wherein the support assembly is used to support the keycap to move relative to the substrate assembly in the first direction. The substrate assembly includes a conductive film and a substrate stacked along the first direction. The conductive film is located on the side of the substrate facing the support assembly and has a contact portion. The substrate has a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other along its thickness direction, with the first surface facing the conductive film. The support assembly includes an elastomer located between the conductive film and the keycap, and includes a top and a bottom. The substrate has a first clearance hole in the region corresponding to the elastomer. The first clearance hole extends from the first surface of the substrate toward the second surface and has a first opening on the first surface of the substrate. The projection of the elastomer on the first surface of the substrate is entirely located within the first opening. When the keycap is pressed, the elastomer is compressed, and the compressed elastomer forces the conductive film to bulge toward the first clearance hole. The top of the compressed elastomer abuts between the keycap and the contact portion of the conductive film. The bulging portion of the conductive film is accommodated in the first clearance hole, or the bulging portion of the conductive film and the portion of the compressed elastomer are accommodated in the first clearance hole.

2. The button as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first clearance hole is a blind hole or a through hole.

3. The button as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first clearance hole has a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other in the first direction, the first end being the first opening, and the first clearance hole extending from its first end along at least one of a straight line, a broken line, and a curve to the second end.

4. The button as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first clearance hole extends from its first end along a straight line to its second end, the straight line being parallel to the first direction.

5. The button as described in claim 1, characterized in that, On a plane perpendicular to the first direction, the wall of the first clearance hole is entirely located on the outer periphery of the elastic body.

6. The button as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The shape of the first clearance hole matches the shape of the bottom of the elastomer.

7. The button as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The projection of the first clearance hole on the keycap is located at the center of the keycap.

8. The button as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The projection of the top of the elastomer onto the keycap lies within the projection of the bottom of the elastomer onto the keycap; The top includes a top plate and an actuating post, the actuating post extending from the inner surface of the top plate toward the conductive film, and the actuating post being used to abut against the contact portion of the conductive film; The elastomer further includes an annular connecting portion connected between the top and the bottom. The connecting portion includes a first annular portion and a second annular portion. The first annular portion is the part of the elastomer that protrudes upward and contacts the keycap after being compressed. The second annular portion is the part of the elastomer that protrudes downward and contacts the conductive film after being compressed.

9. The button as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The elastomer is configured as a hollow, frustoconical structure; the material of the elastomer is silicone or rubber. The substrate is a rigid plate.

10. The button as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The support assembly further includes a first scissor leg and a second scissor leg pivotally connected to each other. The two ends of the first scissor leg are movably connected to the substrate and the keycap, respectively. The two ends of the second scissor leg are movably connected to the substrate and the keycap, respectively. The elastic body passes through the middle portions of the first scissor leg and the second scissor leg; or... The support assembly further includes a pair of rigid rods, with the elastic body located between the pair of rigid rods. The first end of each rigid rod is pivotally connected to the keycap, and the second end is slidably mounted on the substrate. Alternatively, the first end of each rigid rod is slidably mounted on the keycap, and the second end is pivotally connected to the substrate.

11. The button as described in any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The substrate has a plurality of second clearance holes spaced apart in the area corresponding to the keycap. On a plane perpendicular to the first direction, the first clearance holes and the plurality of second clearance holes are independent of each other and spaced apart, with the first clearance hole located between the plurality of second clearance holes.

12. A keyboard, characterized in that, Includes the button as described in any one of claims 1-11.

13. An electronic device, characterized in that, Including the keyboard as described in claim 12.

14. An electronic device assembly, comprising an electronic device, characterized in that, It also includes the keyboard as described in claim 12, the keyboard being communicatively connected to the electronic device.

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