Capacitive Keyboard Keys With Adjustable Make Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional keyboards require a physical contact between key components to record keystrokes, limiting the adjustability of the 'make point' once the key is installed, and do not allow for variable make points or effective proximity sensing.
Innovation Solution
A capacitive sensing technique is used to detect changes in capacitance between key components, enabling variable make points and proximity sensing, allowing for adjustable keystroke registration and detection without physical contact, and incorporating multiple capacitive sensors to reduce noise and interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If physical contact between key components is used to record keystrokes, then reliable detection is achieved, but the make point cannot be adjusted once the key is installed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical contact-based detection system with a capacitive sensing system. Instead of requiring physical contact between the key and electrical contact, the invention uses capacitive sensors to detect changes in capacitance caused by key depression, thereby eliminating the need for adjustable mechanical make points while maintaining reliable detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the detection parameter from mechanical contact to electrical capacitance. By monitoring capacitance changes rather than physical contact, the system enables variable make points through software configuration of capacitance thresholds, allowing adaptability without mechanical adjustment complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If physical contact is required for keystroke detection, then simple detection mechanism is maintained, but proximity sensing and gesture recognition are not enabled
Solution Approach 1:
The capacitive sensing system detects not only full key presses but also partial depressions and proximity events. By monitoring capacitance changes at multiple threshold levels, the system enables gesture recognition and proximity sensing while maintaining accurate keystroke detection, providing excessive detection capability that enhances versatility without sacrificing precision.
3Ease of operation
If conventional electrical contacts are used, then simple key structure is maintained, but variable make points and customization are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The capacitive sensing system automatically adapts to different keys and usage patterns through software configuration. Each key can be independently configured with custom capacitance thresholds and detection parameters, allowing easy customization without manual mechanical adjustment. The system self-calibrates and requires no physical modification for customization.
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 customizable and dynamic make points for each key, improving keystroke detection accuracy and adaptability, and allowing for gesture recognition and reduced parasitic capacitance, enhancing the input device's functionality and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
A dielectric may be positioned between the first button member and the second button member. The key is also associated with a capacitive sensor that is configured to determine a change in capacitance as a distance between the first button member and the second button member changes.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an input device having variable make points. More specifically, the various embodiments described herein are directed to an input device having a key, a first button member and a second button member. A dielectric may be positioned between the first button member and the second button member. The key is also associated with a capacitive sensor that is configured to determine a change in capacitance as a distance between the first button member and the second button member changes.