Key Structure with Soft Top Stopper for Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional key structures with stabilizer bars generate noise due to collisions at coupling regions when the keycap is pressed, which affects the overall user experience.
Innovation Solution
A key structure with a position-limiting structure made of two different materials, where the stabilizer bar contacts a softer top stopper material, reducing noise generation during rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a stabilizer bar is used to ensure uniform keycap descent, then key stability is improved, but noise is generated due to collisions at the coupling regions
Solution Approach 1:
The position-limiting structure uses two different materials with different hardness levels: a harder sidewall for structural support and a softer top stopper for noise reduction. This local differentiation of material properties allows the structure to simultaneously provide stability and reduce collision noise when the stabilizer bar contacts the softer portion during rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The position-limiting structure is constructed as a composite of two materials with different hardness characteristics. The sidewall provides rigid structural support while the top stopper, being softer, absorbs collision energy and reduces noise generation. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between stability and noise by combining materials with complementary properties.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the top stopper is made of softer material to reduce noise, then noise reduction is improved, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the position-limiting structure are assigned different material hardness levels according to their functional requirements. The sidewall uses harder material for structural support and positioning, while the top stopper uses softer material for noise reduction. This localized material differentiation resolves the strength-noise contradiction by optimizing each region's material properties for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The position-limiting structure combines two materials with different mechanical properties in a single component. The harder sidewall maintains structural integrity and positioning accuracy, while the softer top stopper reduces noise during stabilizer bar rotation. The composite material design allows simultaneous achievement of strength and noise reduction.
Data Source
AI summary
A key structure includes a base plate, a position-limiting structure, a stabilizer bar and a keycap. The position-limiting structure is connected with and fixed on the base plate. A slot is defined by the position-limiting structure and the base plate. The stabilizer bar is connected with the keycap and pivotally coupled to the slot. The position-limiting structure includes a top stopper. The top stopper is made of soft material. As the stabilizer bar is rotated and the stabilizer bar is contacted with the top stopper, the efficacy of reducing noise is enhanced.