Key Module Scissors Structure for Thin Keyboard Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lightweight keyboards face challenges in providing sufficient actuation stroke and structural strength due to limited internal space, leading to inadequate pressing force feedback for users.
Innovation Solution
A key module design incorporating a scissors structure with pivoted supporting members and a membrane circuit board, featuring protruding shafts and axle holes for dynamic balance and sliding motion, along with an elastic member for force transmission, ensuring uniform torque and preventing skewing even in limited space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the keyboard is made lighter and thinner, then the weight and thickness are reduced, but the internal space becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting member is divided into multiple segments (first supporting member with first extending portions, second supporting member with second extending portions) that can pivot relative to each other. This segmentation allows the structure to achieve the required mechanical function with reduced material, thereby reducing weight while maintaining structural integrity within limited space.
Solution Approach 2:
The scissors structure utilizes a two-dimensional pivoting mechanism where the first and second extending portions intersect and pivot relative to each other. This dimensional approach allows the structure to achieve vertical support function while occupying minimal horizontal space, effectively resolving the space constraint in thin keyboards.
2Weight of moving object
If the keyboard is made lighter and thinner, then the weight and thickness are reduced, but the structural strength is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The scissors structure employs dynamic pivoting joints between the first and second supporting members, allowing the structure to adapt its rigidity based on operational needs. When force is applied, the pivoting joints engage to provide structural strength; when not in use, the structure remains lightweight and flexible.
Solution Approach 2:
The supporting members utilize composite construction with the first and second extending portions made of materials that provide both strength and flexibility. The intersection and pivoting connection of these portions creates a composite structural system that achieves high strength-to-weight ratio.
3Volume of stationary object
If the internal space is limited, then the keyboard thickness is reduced, but the actuation stroke becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The pivoting joints in the scissors structure allow for curved motion paths of the key cap during actuation. This curved trajectory enables the key cap to achieve sufficient vertical displacement (actuation stroke) while the horizontal footprint remains minimal, effectively utilizing the limited internal space.
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second extending portions are positioned to intersect and nest within each other's spatial envelope when not in use. This nested configuration minimizes the overall height requirement while maintaining the full actuation stroke capability when the scissors structure is activated.
4Stability of the object's composition
If conventional balance bar structure is used, then force balance is achieved, but the internal space requirement is not met
Solution Approach 1:
The balance bar function is merged into the scissors structure itself. The first and second supporting members work together as an integrated unit, where their intersecting and pivoting configuration inherently provides force balance without requiring a separate balance bar component. This merging eliminates the need for additional space.
Solution Approach 2:
The scissors structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, enables key actuation, achieves force balance, and maintains a compact profile. The first and second supporting members collectively perform all these functions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
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 key module achieves sufficient structural strength and force balance, providing a good hand feel during key presses with sufficient force, while reducing the need for additional components like balance bars, thus enhancing operational stability and reducing space and manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
The plurality of first extending portions and the plurality of second extending portions are slidably pivoted together where they intersect by the plurality of protruding shafts and the plurality of axle holes
Implementation Method 2
The elastic member is located between the key cap and the membrane circuit board
Data Source
AI summary
A key module including a key cap, a bottom plate, and a scissors structure is provided. The scissors structure has a first supporting member and a second supporting member pivoted to the key cap and the bottom plate respectively. The first supporting member has a plurality of protruding shafts, the second supporting member has a plurality of axle holes, and the protruding shafts are movably pivoted to the axle holes respectively.