Elastic Hook Keycap Assembly Damage Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional keyboard devices face damage issues during the assembly process due to the plastic hook being easily broken or deformed when propped open by a connection shaft.
Innovation Solution
The keyboard device incorporates an elastic hook or structure made of an elastic material, such as those formed through double injection, high-frequency welding, or ultrasonic hot welding processes, which allows for restorable elastic deformation during assembly, preventing damage to the keycap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a plastic hook is used to connect the keycap with the connecting element, then the assembly process can be simplified, but the hook is easily damaged or deformed when propped open by the connection shaft
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the hook from plastic to elastic material, transforming its mechanical properties. This allows the hook to undergo elastic deformation when propped open by the connection shaft and then restore to its original shape, preventing permanent damage while maintaining ease of assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic characteristics to the hook by using elastic material that can deform and restore. The hook transitions from a static, rigid plastic component to a dynamic, flexible elastic component that can adapt during assembly and operation, resolving the contradiction between assembly simplicity and structural durability.
2Ease of operation
If the hook is propped open during assembly to connect the keycap with the connecting element, then the connection can be achieved, but the plastic hook structure is easily damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from plastic to elastic material, which fundamentally alters the strength and deformation characteristics. The elastic hook can withstand the prop-open operation during assembly without damage, maintaining both ease of operation and structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic material inherently provides cushioning effect during the assembly operation. When the connection shaft props open the hook, the elastic material absorbs the stress and prevents damage, effectively cushioning against the harmful effects of the assembly operation before damage can occur.
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 elastic hook or structure prevents damage to the keycap during assembly by allowing elastic deformation, ensuring the keycap is not broken or deformed, thus enhancing the durability and reliability of the keyboard device.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic hook is made of an elastic material... allows for restorable elastic deformation during assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A keyboard device includes a base plate, a connecting element and a keycap. The connecting element is connected with a hook of the keycap and the base plate. The keycap includes an elastic structure, a first hooking part and a second hooking part. The elastic structure hook is installed on an inner surface of the keycap. The first hooking part is arranged beside a first side of the elastic structure. The second hooking part is arranged beside a second side of the elastic structure. While the connecting element is assembled with the keycap, the first hooking part and the second hooking part are pushed by the connecting element and the keycap is bent in response to the elasticity of the elastic structure. Consequently, the first hooking part is moved away from the second hooking part.