Bellows Light Blockers for Keyboard Key Gap Sealing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with user input interfaces, such as keyboards, often experience light leakage through gaps between keys and the surrounding framework, detracting from the user experience, especially in low-light environments, and are not suitable for thin devices that cannot accommodate additional light-blocking materials.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a flexible bellow-like light blocker that extends between keys and the framework, spanning key gaps to block or control light leakage, using materials like silicone or thermoplastic polyurethane that are opaque or partially transparent to manage light emission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional light-blocking materials are used, then light leakage is prevented, but device thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light blocker extends in the horizontal dimension across the key gap rather than adding vertical thickness. The blocker spans from one side of the key gap to the other, blocking light laterally without requiring additional vertical space that would increase device thickness.
Solution Approach 2:
The light blocker is implemented as a thin, flexible membrane or film that can conform to the key gap geometry. This thin-film approach provides effective light blocking while maintaining minimal thickness, allowing the device to remain thin without sacrificing light leakage prevention.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If light blocking structures are added, then light leakage is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light blocker serves multiple functions: it blocks light leakage, maintains key travel clearance, and can be integrated with existing key structures. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby simplifying the overall device structure despite adding light blocking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The light blocker acts as an intermediary element positioned in the key gap between the key and the framework. This mediator approach allows light blocking without requiring direct modification of the key or framework structures, simplifying integration while achieving the light leakage prevention goal.
Data Source
AI summary
In an example, a light blocker may comprise a bellow to extend from an outer edge of a key to an inner edge of a key window to span a key gap in between the key and the key window. The bellow may extend along a periphery of the key, and the bellow may block light originating from under the key from passing through the key gap.