Keyboard Key Cap Locking Mechanism via Rotational Engagement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in intuitively locking and unlocking specific keys on a keyboard without generating user input, as existing methods require cumbersome software changes or physical removal of key caps.
Innovation Solution
A keyboard design that allows specific keys to be locked or unlocked by rotating the key cap, using a rotational support plate and fixing support plate mechanism, preventing input recognition when the key cap is rotated to a specific angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software methods are used to lock a specific key, then the key can be locked to prevent user input, but the operating procedure becomes non-intuitive and the restoring procedure becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces software-based key locking with a mechanical locking mechanism. The key cap is equipped with a locking protrusion that can engage with a locking groove on the key stem, creating a physical lock that prevents the key cap from being pressed. This mechanical approach provides intuitive locking/unlocking through simple manual manipulation while reliably preventing key input.
Solution Approach 2:
The key cap is divided into functional segments: a pressing portion for normal input, and a rotating/locking portion for security. The locking mechanism is segmented into a locking protrusion on the key cap and a corresponding locking groove on the key stem. This segmentation allows the key to serve multiple functions - normal pressing and secure locking - through distinct physical actions.
2Reliability
If physical removal of key cap is used to prevent input recognition, then the key input is blocked, but the procedure is cumbersome and requires separate restoration steps
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring complete removal of the key cap, the patent implements a mechanical locking system where a locking protrusion engages with a locking groove. This partial mechanical engagement provides sufficient input blocking while allowing the key cap to remain in place, enabling simple rotational locking and unlocking without the cumbersome removal and reinstallation process.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to the key structure, then key locking function is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into minimal components: a locking protrusion integrated into the key cap and a locking groove on the key stem. This segmentation achieves reliable locking functionality while keeping each component simple and the overall structure minimal, avoiding excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is merged with the existing key cap and key stem structures. The locking protrusion is formed as part of the key cap, and the locking groove is formed on the key stem, combining the locking function with the basic key structure rather than adding separate independent components.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A keyboard includes a circuit board comprising a contact terminal, a key cap, a housing comprising at least one key cap hole configured to penetrate the key cap, an elastic support member configured to support the key cap for moving the key cap and to press the contact terminal while the key cap moves in a downward direction, a link configured to guide an elevation movement of the key cap by connecting a first end of the link to the bottom of the key cap; a rotational support plate configured to be connected to a second end of the link and to rotate on the center of the elastic support member, and a fixing support plate comprising a circular groove configured to internally accommodate the rotational support plate.