Dual-Cavity Key Mechanism for Variable Force Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gaming keyboards lack the ability to reflect different degrees of operation, requiring separate keyboards for gaming and non-gaming applications, which is costly and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A key mechanism with a processor that generates variable key signals through a combination of a first button structure, a second button structure, and an elastic body, allowing for different modes of operation by varying the force applied, enabling a single keyboard to serve both gaming and non-gaming purposes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional keyboard with only open and closed states is used, then the structure is simple and cost-effective, but it cannot reflect different degrees of operation in gaming applications
Solution Approach 1:
The key mechanism is divided into two independent button structures: a first button structure for conventional open/closed states and a second button structure with electrode layers and elastic body for gaming applications. This segmentation allows each button structure to specialize in its function while sharing the same physical key space, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The second button structure (with electrode layers and elastic body) is nested within the same key mechanism housing as the first button structure. The components are arranged such that the first cavity contains the first button structure while the second cavity contains the second button structure, allowing both functionalities to coexist in a single keyboard key without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate keyboards are purchased for gaming and non-gaming applications, then each keyboard can be optimized for its specific use, but the cost increases and it becomes cumbersome to replace keyboards
Solution Approach 1:
The key mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions through its two button structures. The first button structure handles conventional typing tasks while the second button structure enables gaming applications with variable force detection. This multi-functionality allows a single keyboard to replace what would traditionally require two separate keyboards, reducing cost and complexity at the system level.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionalities of a conventional keyboard and a gaming keyboard into a single device. By integrating both button structures within the same key mechanism and processor system, the invention combines the simplicity of conventional keyboards with the advanced capabilities of gaming keyboards, eliminating the need for users to maintain separate devices for different applications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If film resistance or relay mechanisms are used for key triggering, then the implementation is straightforward, but the system cannot provide variable operation states for gaming
Solution Approach 1:
The second button structure utilizes an elastic body that changes its physical parameters (deformation, conductivity) in response to applied force. As the user applies different forces to the key, the elastic body deforms to different extents, causing the electrode layers to contact at different points or with different pressures, thereby generating variable key signals that reflect different degrees of operation. This parameter change approach enables gaming functionality without requiring complex additional mechanisms.
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 a single keyboard to provide both conventional and gaming functionality, reducing the need for separate keyboards and enhancing user convenience by allowing for different levels of operation based on applied force.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastic body provided on a lower surface of said first electrode layer or an upper surface of said second electrode layer; wherein: said processor is configured to: in a first mode of operation, generate a first key signal from said first button structure when a force is applied to said upper wall of said first cavity; and in a second mode of operation, generate a second key signal from said second button structure in response to elastic deformation of said first elastic body when a force is applied to an upper wall of said first cavity compressing said upper wall of said second cavity
Data Source
AI summary
A key mechanism comprises an elastic structure comprising a first cavity located above a second cavity which are spaced apart from each other. The key mechanism comprises first and second button structures. The second button structure comprises an electrode layer on an upper wall of the second cavity and an electrode layer on a lower wall of the second cavity. The second button structure has an elastic body on the surface of one of the electrode layers. The first button structure is configured to generate a first key signal when a force is applied to an upper wall of the first cavity and compress the upper wall of the second cavity upon application of that force. The electrode layers come into contact to generate a second key signal in response to elastic deformation of the elastic body when the force is applied.