Automated Key Pressing Device for Keyboard Testing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current testing procedures for computer products require manual key pressing, leading to errors and increased labor hours, which hinders the automation of test processes.
Innovation Solution
An automated key pressing device with multiple key pressing modules and a control unit that loads a keyboard, allowing for simultaneous and precise key pressing across different key rows, utilizing a combination of electromagnetic components, servo motors, and image capturing devices to automate the testing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual key pressing is used for keyboard testing, then the testing process can be performed with simple equipment, but the testing accuracy decreases and labor hours increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the keyboard testing function into multiple independent key pressing modules, each capable of pressing specific keys. The transmission module segments the movement control into discrete positional steps. This segmentation allows automated precise testing while keeping each module's structure relatively simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission module acts as an intermediary between the base and the key pressing modules, transferring motion and positioning capabilities. The electromagnetic components serve as intermediaries to convert electrical signals into mechanical key pressing actions. This intermediary approach enables automated testing without requiring direct complex control of each key module.
2Productivity
If multiple key pressing modules are used to press different keys simultaneously, then the testing productivity increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple key pressing modules are designed with identical or similar structures, each capable of pressing different keys on the keyboard. This universal design allows the system to test multiple keys simultaneously through replication of a standardized module, increasing productivity while managing complexity through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission module combines the positioning and movement functions for multiple key pressing modules into a single integrated mechanism. By merging the motion control system, the device can coordinate multiple modules simultaneously, achieving high-speed parallel testing without proportionally increasing overall structural complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the first key pressing module is more prominently extended above the loading stage, then the accessibility to keys on the keyboard is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first key pressing module is designed with a longer extension specifically positioned where additional key access is needed on the keyboard layout. This local quality adjustment provides enhanced accessibility to specific key regions without requiring all modules to be equally complex or extended, optimizing the balance between accessibility and simplicity.
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 automated key pressing device enhances the accuracy and efficiency of keyboard testing while reducing labor participation, enabling more reliable and faster test processes.
Implementation Method 1
The electromagnetic component is disposed between the pivoting base and the extending arm, and electrically connected to the control unit for switchably magnetically attracting the extending arm
Implementation Method 2
The elastic member is connected to the pivoting base and the extending arm
Implementation Method 3
The servo motor is located on the transmission module, and electrically connected to the control unit. When the servo motor rotates the cam by one of different rotation angles, the cam is rotated to press down the key through one of the main body and the protrusive portion such that the key is pressed down by one of two different declining distances
Implementation Method 4
The cam is coaxially connected to the rod for pressing down the key of the keyboard by the driving of the servo motor. The cam includes a main body and a protrusive portion. When the servo motor rotates the cam by one of different rotation angles, the cam is rotated to press down the key
Implementation Method 5
The step motor is coaxially connected to one of the pulleys and electrically connected to the control unit for reciprocating the carrier
Implementation Method 6
The moving belt is sleeved on the pulleys, and fixedly connected to the carrier for traveling with the rotation of the pulleys
Data Source
AI summary
An automated key pressing device includes a loading stage, a base, a transmission module, two key pressing modules. The base is located at one side of the loading stage. The transmission module is reciprocatedly slidable on the base. One of the key pressing modules is disposed on the transmission module, and extends outwardly towards the loading stage for pressing one key of a keyboard by the transmission module. The other key pressing module is located on the base and extends outwardly towards the loading stage for pressing another key of the keyboard. The one of the key pressing modules is more prominently extended outwardly than the other. The control unit electrically connected to the key pressing modules and the transmission module.