Adjustable Key Structure Using Electromagnetic Force Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing key structures, such as those in keyboards and gamepads, are unable to adjust pressing force and rebound time in real-time, limiting the dynamic gaming experience.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a magnetic system with an induction coil and a permanent magnet, where the direction and magnitude of the current applied to the induction coil control the magnetic attraction or repulsion between the magnetic members, allowing for dynamic adjustment of pressing force and rebound time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a rubber dome or spring is used to determine pressing force and rebound force, then the key structure can provide tactile feedback, but the pressing force and rebound force cannot be adjusted in real-time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of pressing force and rebound forceVSAvoidcomplexity of key structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical spring or rubber dome with an electromagnetic system consisting of an induction coil and permanent magnet. The pressing force is generated by electromagnetic attraction when current flows through the induction coil, and the rebound force is generated by electromagnetic repulsion. This substitution allows real-time adjustment of forces through electrical control while maintaining the tactile feedback function, directly resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical state and parameters of the electromagnetic system by controlling the direction and magnitude of current flow through the induction coil. By reversing current direction, the system switches between attraction (pressing force) and repulsion (rebound force). By adjusting current magnitude, the system dynamically controls the strength of forces. This parameter control enables real-time adjustability without mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Duration of action of moving object

If the pressing force and rebound force are determined by a rubber dome, then the key structure is simple in design, but the duration of deformation cannot be adjusted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveduration of key deformationVSAvoidcomplexity of control system

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the passive mechanical rubber dome with an active electromagnetic system that can be precisely controlled through electrical signals. The duration of key deformation is controlled by the timing and duration of current flow to the induction coil, allowing dynamic adjustment without mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent maintains continuous control over the key structure's deformation through sustained or pulsed electromagnetic forces. By controlling the duration of current flow, the system can maintain the key in a pressed state for any desired duration, enabling continuous adjustment of deformation time without mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables real-time adjustment of pressing force and rebound time, enhancing the gaming experience by simulating different game scenarios and accommodating individual user preferences.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic system including an induction coil and a permanent magnet, wherein the direction and magnitude of the current applied to the induction coil control the magnetic attraction or repulsion between the magnetic members

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11670469B1Key structure providing adjustability of pressing force and rebound force, and key device using key structure

Publication Date: 2023.06.06 HONGFUJIN PRECISION ELECTRONICES YANTAI CO LTD

AI summary

A key structure which is adjustable in pressing force required and in duration of key pushback includes a circuit board, a keycap, a first magnetic member, an elastic member, a membrane switch, and a second magnetic member. The keycap includes an extending portion. The membrane switch is spaced apart from the first magnetic member, and the elastic member buffers the first magnetic member against the membrane switch. The second magnetic member is disposed between the membrane switch and the circuit board. When energized, the second magnetic member generates magnetic attraction or magnetic repulsion to the first magnetic member. A pressing force required on the key structure and a rebound force and a delay of rebound can be dynamically adjusted by a direction and magnitude of a current applied to the second magnetic member. A key device including the key structure is also disclosed.