Key Structure With Symmetric Balance Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional keyboards with thicker link bars for balance compromise the slim design due to increased space requirements, affecting the responsiveness of key caps.
Innovation Solution
A key structure utilizing plate-shaped balance plates symmetrically disposed between a bottom board and key cap, providing strength while reducing height, combined with a strengthening plate under the key cap for enhanced durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If thicker link bars are used to provide sufficient strength for preventing corners of a key cap from being unresponsive, then the strength and responsiveness of the key cap is improved, but the space required increases, compromising the slim design of the keyboard
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from using cylindrical link bars (one-dimensional circular cross-section) to plate-shaped balance bars (two-dimensional flat structure). This dimensional change allows the balance bar to provide greater moment of inertia and structural strength without increasing the height profile, enabling slim keyboard design while maintaining key cap responsiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the balance bar from circular cross-section to plate-shaped configuration. By altering the shape parameters (from radius-based to width/thickness-based dimensions), the design achieves higher strength-to-space ratio, providing sufficient structural support with reduced height occupation
Data Source
AI summary
A key structure comprises a bottom board, a key cap and two first balance plates. The two first balance plates are plate shaped, disposed between the bottom board and the key cap, and symmetric to each other. An upper end of each of the two first balance plates is connected to the key cap. A lower end of each of the two first balance plates is connected to the bottom board. Thereby, a key structure is formed which provides a normal tactile feel while saving space, thereby achieving a slim design.