Key Cover Chamber With Slots for Mixed-Width Key Bows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing key caps are not universally compatible, as they either stretch or tear when attempting to fit wider SC1 key bows, and fail to provide a secure friction fit for narrower key bows, leading to bulkiness and inefficiency in accommodating different key types.
Innovation Solution
A key cover design featuring a closed chamber with slots for receiving the lateral bow tips of SC1 keys, allowing for a smaller, more durable key cover that can fit various key types without causing stress, and incorporating features like metallic plates and magnets for enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the key cap chamber is made wide enough to accommodate SC1 key bows, then SC1 keys can be fitted, but the key cap becomes bulky and larger in size
Solution Approach 1:
The key cap chamber is segmented into multiple regions with different width characteristics. The chamber includes a wider portion for accommodating SC1 key bows and a narrower portion for accommodating KW1 and WR5 key bows. This segmentation allows the single key cap to adapt to different key types without requiring the entire chamber to be wide, thus avoiding bulkiness while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the key cap material is stretched to fit wider SC1 key bows, then SC1 keys can be accommodated, but the stress causes the key cap to tear
Solution Approach 1:
The key cap chamber geometry is specifically designed with parameter changes that allow it to accommodate wider SC1 key bows without excessive stretching. The chamber includes expanded sections, angled surfaces, or flexible zones that can deform elastically to accept wider keys while distributing stress evenly, preventing material failure and maintaining durability.
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 secure friction fit for keys of different widths, including SC1, KW1, and WR5, without bulkiness or material stress, while allowing for easy re-use across different keys and additional features like magnetic and RFID capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The key cover may include a magnet embedded within a first wall
Implementation Method 2
a metallic plate embedded in a first wall of the key cover
Data Source
AI summary
A cover for a key is disclosed. The cover includes: a first wall; a second wall opposite to the first wall; and an outer wall extending between the first wall and the second wall, the outer wall defining a pair of slots extending therethrough, the slots being positioned opposite to each other on the outer wall, wherein the first wall, the second wall, and the outer wall define a closed chamber for receiving a bow of the key and an opening to the chamber.