Adjustable Key Mechanisms Using Magnetic Travel Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional input devices, such as keyboards, are static and cannot be adjusted to match individual user preferences regarding feel and travel of translatable input mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
An input device with adjustable input mechanisms, where the travel distance, feel, and force profile of individual keys or buttons can be customized based on user preferences using magnetic components and coils to dynamically alter the input mechanism's travel profile.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the input device uses a static translatable input mechanism, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot be adjusted to match individual user preferences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the input mechanism adjustable rather than static. The key travel distance and force profile can be dynamically modified through magnetic field adjustments, allowing the device to adapt to different user preferences while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes physical parameters of the input mechanism, specifically the magnetic field strength controlled by the coil, to alter the force profile and travel characteristics. This allows continuous adjustment of input mechanism properties without changing the fundamental device structure.
2Ease of operation
If the input device is made static, then the device complexity is low, but the typing comfort and efficiency for individual users cannot be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The coil enables continuous adjustment of magnetic field parameters, which directly controls the force profile and travel characteristics of the input mechanism. This parameter adjustment capability allows optimization of typing comfort for individual users without requiring complex mechanical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an electromagnetic system. Instead of using complex mechanical linkages or adjustable components, the force profile is controlled through magnetic fields generated by the coil, simplifying the overall device structure while enabling fine-grained adjustment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If magnetic components and coils are added to enable dynamic adjustment, then user preference customization is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic components and coil serve multiple functions: they generate the force profile, control the travel characteristics, and enable user preference customization. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity despite adding customization capability.
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
The input device provides a customized input experience for each user, enhancing typing comfort and efficiency by allowing dynamic adjustment of key travel and force requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a coil that is operative to change a magnetic force of the second magnetic component in response to a received signal
Implementation Method 2
A first magnetic component is coupled to the input mechanism and a second magnetic component is spaced apart from the first magnetic component
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an input device having adjustable input mechanisms. The input mechanisms of the input device may be dynamically adjusted based on one or more input characteristics associated with a user. Accordingly, the input device may be customized to fit a user's input preferences.