Keyboard Key Structure with Integrated Fitting Portion for Self-Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing key pullers require sufficient space and an inclined angle to operate, making them inconvenient and limited in usage for removing damaged keys from keyboards.

Innovation Solution

A key structure featuring a movable support element, keycap, and fitting portion where the keycap is jointed with the movable support element and includes a rim with a fitting portion that allows for easy detachment without stretching into the keycap's interior, using an operation body to clamp and pull the keycap out.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a key puller is used to remove damaged keys, then the key can be pulled out, but sufficient space and inclined angle are required making the operation inconvenient and limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconvenience of key removalVSAvoidusage limitation in certain conditions

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The keycap is designed with a built-in fitting portion that enables self-removal capability. The operation body engages with the fitting portion to directly pull the keycap off the support element without requiring a separate key puller tool, making the system self-servicing and eliminating tool dependency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The keycap is segmented into distinct functional portions: the fitting portion for tool engagement, the top surface for user interaction, and the bottom surface for mounting. This segmentation allows the fitting portion to be specifically optimized for tool engagement while the rest of the keycap maintains its structural integrity and aesthetic function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Force

If a key puller stretches into the interior of the key to hook the inner surface, then the key can be gripped, but the operation requires inclined angle and sufficient space reducing ease of use

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegripping force on keyVSAvoidoperational convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fitting portion acts as an intermediary element between the operation body and the keycap body. Instead of the operation body directly stretching into the keycap interior to hook the inner surface, the fitting portion provides an external engagement interface that transmits the pulling force efficiently while avoiding the need for intrusive tool insertion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If traditional key puller operation is used, then key removal is achieved, but space requirements limit usability in certain conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvekey removal efficiencyVSAvoidspace required for operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated fitting portion design enables the keycap to be self-removable with a simple operation body, eliminating the need for complex key puller tools that require significant workspace. This self-service mechanism maintains high productivity while minimizing the space footprint required for operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10699853B2Key structure

Publication Date: 2020.06.30 ASUSTEK COMPUTER INC

AI summary

A key structure includes a movable support element, a keycap, and a fitting portion. The keycap includes a top surface, a bottom surface, and a rim, the bottom surface is jointed with the movable support element, and a periphery of the top surface extends downward to form the rim. The fitting portion is located on the rim, and operated by an operation body to separate the keycap from the movable support element.