Keyboard Device With Dual Pivot Mechanism Prevents Display Damage
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Solution Overview
Problem
The configuration of swing-type keys in clamshell-type electronic devices, such as laptops, causes damage when the lid is closed as the pivoting side of the key is fixed and can abut against the display screen, leading to potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A keyboard device design featuring a substrate with pivoting bases and elastic members that allow the key to swing relative to the substrate, maintaining a liftable distance and preventing the key from abutting the display screen when the lid is closed, by using first and second elastic members to facilitate movement and trigger signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the pivoting side of the key is fixed on the substrate to enable swing motion, then the key can trigger signals when pressed, but the key abuts against the display screen when the lid is closed, causing potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fixed pivoting side configuration to a dynamic structure where the key can pivot about a different axis. The key body rotates about a transverse axis passing through its thickness direction, allowing the key to adapt its orientation based on whether the device is open or closed, thus preventing damage while maintaining functionality
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of fixing the pivoting side and allowing the key top to move, the patent inverts the approach by fixing the key body rotation axis in the thickness direction and allowing the key cap to pivot relative to the key body. This reversal of the pivot location eliminates the abutting problem while preserving the swing-type input mechanism
2Ease of operation
If the key is designed to swing relative to the substrate, then the key provides tactile feedback and signal triggering, but the key cannot move freely when external pressure is applied, risking damage to the electronic device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic dual-pivot mechanism where the key can rotate about a transverse axis through its thickness and simultaneously pivot about a longitudinal axis. This dynamic adaptability allows the key to absorb external pressures in multiple directions without transmitting damaging forces to the display screen or substrate
Solution Approach 2:
The patent anticipates potential damage from external pressures by designing a key structure that can pivot and rotate to accommodate such forces. The elastic key body and dual-axis rotation capability act as a cushioning mechanism, absorbing unexpected pressures before they can reach and damage the display screen or internal components
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
Prevents damage to the electronic device by allowing the key to move freely and avoid contact with the display screen when the lid is closed, enabling secure operation and reducing the risk of damage from external pressures.
Implementation Method 1
The first elastic member is elastically abutted against the bottom of the third side of the key, so that the top edge of the pivoting portion is abutted against and pivoted to the bottom edge of the extension portion, and a liftable distance is maintained between the extension portion and the bottom of the third side of the key
Implementation Method 2
The second elastic member is disposed on the assembly area and between the first elastic member and the second side. The second elastic member is elastically abutted against a bottom of the key
Data Source
AI summary
The keyboard device includes a substrate, a key, a first elastic member, and a second elastic member. The substrate includes a top surface having an assembly area. The assembly area has a pivoting base including a standing portion and an extension portion extending from the standing portion. The key is liftably disposed over the assembly area. A pivoting hook is extending from the bottom of the key toward the assembly area, and one end of the pivoting hook includes a pivoting portion. The first elastic member and the second elastic member are disposed on the assembly area and elastically abutted against the bottom of the key, so that the pivoting portion is abutted against and pivoted to the extension portion, and a liftable distance is maintained between the extension portion and the bottom of the key.