Detachable Backlit Keycap Structure for Brighter Keyboard Keys
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current keyboards with light-emitting functions face issues of structural occlusion and insufficient brightness due to fixed light-emitting elements at the bottom of keys, limiting variability and requiring replacement of entire keycaps rather than individual light sources.
Innovation Solution
A key structure with a detachable keycap module that includes a light source, allowing for replacement of the light source along with the keycap module, enabling adjustable lighting and expanded applicability based on user needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If light-emitting elements are fixed at the bottom of keys, then the keyboard structure is simple, but the brightness projected to keycaps is insufficient due to structural occlusion
Solution Approach 1:
The keycap assembly is divided into separable modules: the keycap itself and the keycap module containing the light source. This segmentation allows the light source to be positioned within the keycap module rather than fixed at the bottom, reducing structural occlusion while maintaining assembly simplicity. The keycap module can be detached and replaced independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The light source is repositioned from the bottom horizontal plane to the keycap module vertical structure. By changing the spatial dimension and arrangement of the light source within the keycap module, the projection path is optimized to reduce occlusion by the scissor structure, improving brightness without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If light-emitting elements are fixed at the bottom of keys, then the structure is stable, but the keycaps cannot be replaced with variability in lighting
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard system is segmented into the base structure (scissor mechanism, elastic member) and the replaceable keycap module. This segmentation maintains the stability of the base structure while enabling easy replacement of keycap modules with different lighting characteristics, patterns, or colors to suit different use environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The keycap module is designed with detachable connections to the scissor structure, transforming the static fixed configuration into a dynamic replaceable system. The elastic member provides continuous contact force to maintain stable connection during use, while allowing straightforward detachment and replacement when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the keycap module is detachably assembled, then the replaceability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detachable keycap module design segments the replaceable components from the permanent structure. By clearly defining the boundary between the keycap module and the scissor structure, the design achieves replaceability through simple attachment/detachment mechanisms without requiring complex assembly systems throughout the entire keyboard.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member acts as an intermediary between the keycap module and the scissor structure. It provides continuous contact force to maintain stable connection during use, while allowing straightforward detachment when needed. This intermediary element simplifies the connection mechanism compared to rigid fixed mounting.
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 solution allows for customizable lighting and keycap arrangements, enhancing user experience by accommodating different use conditions and environments, such as document processing or e-sports activities, while reducing the need for fixed light sources.
Implementation Method 1
A top portion of the carrier has light transmittance, so that light of the light source passes through the top portion to be projected from the key structure
Data Source
AI summary
A key structure includes a base, an elastic member disposed on the base, a scissors structure movably disposed on the base, and a keycap module having a carrier and a light source. The carrier is detachably assembled to the scissors structure and abuts the elastic member. The light source is disposed in the carrier. The light source is electrically connected to a bottom portion of the base through a flexible circuit member penetrating the carrier, passing the scissors structure, and penetrating the base. A top portion of the carrier has light transmittance, so that light of the light source can pass through the top portion to be projected from the key structure.