Convertible Key Structure Digital Analog Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Notebook computers lack a key structure that can seamlessly switch between digital and analog control signals, limiting their functionality in gaming and other applications, as existing keys only provide ON/OFF signals without the capability to sense press strength, necessitating external joysticks that compromise portability and compatibility with mice.
Innovation Solution
A key structure comprising a circuit board, membrane, positioning frame, sensor module, scissor leg, and a key cap with interchangeable elastic components that allow switching between digital and analog modes by generating non-linear or linear deformations to trigger corresponding control signals, enabling the key to function as either a digital or analog key.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an extra analog joystick or analog key is installed to experience analog control, then analog control functionality is achieved, but portability and compatibility are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines digital and analog control functionalities into a single key structure. The key cap can be configured with either a first elastic component for digital mode or a second elastic component for analog mode, merging two previously separate functions into one integrated system that maintains portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The key structure is designed to perform multiple functions through interchangeable elastic components. The same key structure can operate in digital mode with the first elastic component or analog mode with the second elastic component, making it a universal solution that eliminates the need for separate devices.
2Ease of operation
If digital keys are used in notebook computers, then portability is maintained, but analog control functionality is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The key structure employs dynamic configurability through interchangeable elastic components. Users can switch between digital and analog modes by replacing the elastic component, allowing the system to adapt its functionality based on usage requirements while maintaining the portable notebook form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the key structure by using different elastic components with distinct deformation characteristics. The first elastic component provides non-linear deformation for digital mode, while the second elastic component provides linear deformation for analog mode, enabling mode switching through parameter variation.
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 the key to be easily switched between digital and analog modes without external hardware, enhancing portability and compatibility, allowing for more realistic control inputs in games and other applications, while maintaining the lightweight and portable nature of notebook computers.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor module is adapted to detect a press stroke of the key cap relative to the membrane
Implementation Method 2
the elastic component generates a non-linear deformation to squeeze the membrane to further trigger a digital control signal
Implementation Method 3
the elastic component generates a linear deformation to further trigger an analog control signal through a press stoke of the key cap relative to the membrane detected by the sensor module
Data Source
AI summary
A key structure including a circuit board, a membrane, a positioning frame, a sensor module, a scissor leg, and a key cap is provided. The membrane is disposed on the circuit board and is electrically connected to each other. The positioning frame is disposed on the membrane. The sensor module is disposed on the membrane and is electrically connected to the circuit board. The scissor leg is connected to the positioning frame and is adapted to move up and down relative to the positioning frame. The key cap is detachably disposed at the scissor leg and is spaced with positioning frame. The key cap has a reflective plane and a shaft component. The reflective plane faces the membrane. The shaft component is extended from the reflective plane and penetrates through the scissor leg and the positioning frame to abut the membrane. The sensor module is aligned with the reflective plane.