Electronic Keyboard Key Pressure Sensing for Precise Input Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic keyboards only generate signals when keys are pressed, limiting user interaction and convenience by not allowing for varying pressure inputs, which reduces the user experience and operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating pressure sensors between the keyboard cavity and circuit board, allowing for the detection and generation of pressure signals corresponding to the force applied on keys, enabling more nuanced input and interaction with electronic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pressure sensors are incorporated between the keyboard cavity and circuit board to detect pressure signals, then user interaction and input precision are enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical switch mechanisms with pressure sensors that detect force applied to keys. The pressure sensor converts mechanical pressure into electrical signals, eliminating the need for complex mechanical switch assemblies while enabling nuanced pressure-based input detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from simple key press presence to continuous pressure magnitude. By measuring the force applied to each key, the system transforms discrete binary input into continuous analog pressure data, enabling varied pressure inputs for enhanced user interaction.
2Productivity
If pressure sensors are added to enable varied pressure inputs, then operational efficiency and user experience improve, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor serves multiple functions: it detects key press presence, measures pressure magnitude, and generates corresponding electrical signals for various input modes. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate mechanisms, simplifying the overall manufacturing process despite the advanced sensing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure sensor acts as an intermediary component between the mechanical key structure and the electronic circuit board. It translates physical key pressure into electrical signals that the electronic device can process, bridging the mechanical and electronic domains with a single specialized component.
3Device complexity
If signal generation occurs only when keys are pressed, then device complexity is reduced, but user experience and operational convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static binary key press detection to dynamic continuous pressure measurement. The system continuously monitors pressure magnitude on each key, enabling real-time detection of varying pressure levels during key presses, which provides richer input information for enhanced user interaction and control precision.
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
This solution enhances user experience by allowing for varied pressure inputs, simulating real-world interactions and improving operational efficiency by enabling more precise control over electronic device functions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one pressure sensor is provided between a lower portion of the cavity and the circuit board... each pressure sensor is provided with a pressing layer arranged on one side of the circuit board... allowing for the detection and generation of pressure signals corresponding to the force applied on keys
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic keyboard comprises a plurality of keys and a housing comprising a cavity. The cavity accommodates a circuit board, a pressing layer and at least one pressure sensor arranged therein. Each pressure sensor is provided between a lower portion of the cavity and the circuit board, the pressing layer is moveably connected to each of the keys and the circuit board is provided between the pressing layer and the lower portion. Each pressure sensor is connected to the circuit board, and a force-receiving surface of each pressure sensor aligns with a projection area of the corresponding one of the keys.