Backlit Keyboard with Selective Key Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional keyboards used in bowling centers have non-backlit keys, making them difficult to use in dimly lit environments, and often require multiple keyboard models for different lane configurations, increasing manufacturing and storage costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A keyboard with individually illuminated keys that can be selectively set to different operating states based on their usage, allowing only necessary keys to be highlighted for specific operations, reducing the need for multiple models and improving usability in low-light conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If non-backlit keys are used in conventional keyboards, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but visibility and ease of operation in dimly lit environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies backlighting technology that changes the visual appearance of keys by emitting light through transparent or translucent key covers. The backlighting system uses LEDs or other light sources to illuminate the keys from below, making them visible in dimly lit bowling center environments without requiring physical changes to the key structure or materials.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple keyboard models are produced for different lane configurations, then adaptability to different uses is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal keyboard design that can serve multiple lane configurations through software control of backlighting. A single keyboard model can be configured for different lanes (left, right, center) by programming the backlighting system to illuminate appropriate keys and indicators, eliminating the need for separate physical keyboard models for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyboard employs dynamic backlighting control that can change illumination patterns, colors, and intensity based on the selected lane configuration and operational state. This dynamic adaptability allows one physical keyboard to perform multiple functions that previously required separate static keyboard models.
3Ease of operation
If all keys are illuminated continuously, then ease of operation is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard implements periodic or conditional backlighting activation rather than continuous illumination. The backlighting system activates only when the keyboard is in use or when specific keys need to be highlighted, and can be configured to illuminate different key sets based on the operational mode or time of day, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining usability.
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
Enhances typing convenience and speed by providing clear visual cues for key presses and reduces the need for multiple keyboard models, simplifying production and storage while improving user interaction in dimly lit environments.
Implementation Method 1
A mechanism is provided for emitting light radiation at the respective key, in particular to display the respective sign at the key
Data Source
AI summary
A device, in particular a keyboard, for data or command entry is disclosed. The device is suitable for entering data or commands into an electronic processing system, in particular, into an electronic system or apparatus for controlling a respective installation, such as an entertainment centre such as a bowling centre.