Coated Keyboard Link Bar for Quiet Key Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Keyboard keys with key link bars often produce rattling noises during operation, especially when larger keys like the space bar are actuated, due to the mechanical interaction between the key link bar and the keyboard chassis.
Innovation Solution
A noise-reducing coating, such as a polyethylene coating, is applied to the key link bar to absorb or diffuse sound waves, reducing the noise generated by the key link bar's movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a key link bar is used to actuate keyboard keys, then the mechanical operation and structural support are improved, but mechanical noise and rattling sounds increase
Solution Approach 1:
A noise-reducing coating is applied to the key link bar to act as an intermediary layer between the metal components. This coating absorbs and dampens mechanical vibrations and contact noises while the link bar performs its actuation function, thereby reducing rattling sounds without compromising mechanical operation
Solution Approach 2:
The key link bar transitions from a single material (metal) to a composite structure with a noise-reducing coating applied to its surface. This composite approach combines the structural integrity of metal with the noise-dampening properties of the coating material, simultaneously achieving reliable mechanical operation and reduced mechanical noise
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a noise-reducing coating is applied to the key link bar, then mechanical noise is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the surface parameters of the key link bar by applying a coating layer with specific noise-reducing properties. This parameter change (adding surface treatment) achieves noise reduction while the manufacturing process integrates smoothly into existing production workflows, minimizing the increase in manufacturing complexity
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 noise-reducing coating effectively minimizes the mechanical noise associated with the actuation of keyboard keys, enhancing the user experience by reducing the audible rattling sounds.
Implementation Method 1
A noise-reducing coating, such as a polyethylene coating, is applied to the key link bar to absorb or diffuse sound waves, reducing the noise generated by the key link bar's movement.
Data Source
AI summary
A keyboard operatively couplable to an information handling system may include a keyboard chassis with a plurality of physical keyswitch actuation devices at a plurality of key locations. The keyboard may also include a keyboard key operatively coupled to the keyboard chassis at a first key location via a key link bar. The key link bar may include a bent terminal end operatively coupled to the keyboard key via side hourglass hook on the keyboard key. The key link bar includes a noise-reducing coating formed over the key link bar to reduce noise associated with actuation of the keyboard key during actuation by a user except at c-clip interface sections.