Mechanical Keyboard Analog Input via Impedance Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Mechanical computer keyboards are limited to binary input registration, failing to provide analog input data, which is necessary for applications requiring nuanced control, such as computer games, and cannot easily integrate analog input without altering the existing key switch design.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an analog-to-digital converter and a distance sensor into the key switch, utilizing the conductive spring as an element of a complex electrical impedance circuit to measure keystroke travel distance, converting this impedance into a digital signal for output, without modifying the key switch itself.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a mechanical keyboard uses binary key switch registration, then the keyboard structure remains simple and manufacturing is easier, but the input resolution is limited and analog input capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical binary switch registration system with an electrical impedance measurement system. A distance sensor unit measures the travel distance of the keycap by detecting changes in electrical impedance, and an analog-to-digital converter transforms these analog impedance variations into digital signals. This substitution enables analog input capability while maintaining the mechanical key switch structure, thereby improving measurement precision without significantly increasing device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If analog input capability is added to mechanical keyboards, then input data resolution improves, but the key switch design must be altered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the key switch system into functionally independent components: the original mechanical key switch structure for actuation, a separate distance sensor unit for analog measurement, and an analog-to-digital converter for signal processing. This segmentation allows the analog input capability to be added without modifying the proven mechanical key switch design, maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving high-resolution analog input.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a distance sensor unit as an intermediary component that measures keycap travel distance by detecting electrical impedance changes. This intermediary enables analog input functionality without requiring direct modification of the key switch itself, thereby preserving the original key switch design and manufacturing simplicity while achieving the desired analog measurement capability.
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 the registration of analog input data, enhancing the keyboard's capability to provide high-resolution input, maintaining the advantages of existing key switches like Cherry MX and ALPS, and allowing seamless integration with existing systems through digital communication.
Implementation Method 1
arranged to determine a travel distance of said pushing-down of said keycap by measuring a complex electrical impedance corresponding to said travel distance
Implementation Method 2
an analog-to-digital converter, arranged to convert said complex electrical impedance to a digital input signal comprising a digitalized keystroke travel distance
Implementation Method 3
a spring, arranged for forcing said keycap in a neutral release position and providing a perceptible increase in pressing force upon pushing-down said keycap
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanical computer keyboard including a plurality of keys and an input/output (i/o) interface for output of registration of pressing one or more of the plurality of keys. Each key includes a keycap, a key switch including a stem, a key registration unit for registering a keystroke, and a spring for forcing the keycap in a neutral release position and providing a perceptible increase in pressing force. The keyboard further includes an analog-to-digital converter and the keys include a distance sensor unit for determining a travel distance of the pushing-down of the keycap by measuring a complex electrical impedance corresponding to the travel distance of the pushing-down the keycap, wherein the analog-to-digital converter is configured to convert the complex electrical impedance to a digital input signal including a digitalized keystroke travel distance for outputting of the digital input signal by the i/o interface towards the computer.