Keyboard Sliding Member Mouse Support Ergonomics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional wireless mouse devices are difficult to operate ergonomically due to the need for users to stretch their arms, which does not meet ergonomic requirements, especially when used in conjunction with wireless keyboards.

Innovation Solution

A keyboard device with a sliding member that can be partially protruded to support a mouse device, allowing for easier and more ergonomic operation by storing the mouse device when not in use and allowing it to be used directly on the keyboard when needed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a wireless mouse device is placed on a sofa or separate surface, then the user can operate it without physical cable restrictions, but the user has to stretch the arm extensively which does not meet ergonomic requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewireless operation freedomVSAvoidergonomic operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the keyboard device and mouse device into a single integrated unit. The keyboard base serves as the foundation, and the mouse device can be placed on top of the keyboard base or stored within the storing frame, merging two separate devices into one compact system that improves ergonomics while maintaining wireless freedom

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The keyboard base is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as a keyboard support structure, a storing frame for the mouse device, and a working surface for mouse operation. This multi-functionality allows the same structure to support both keyboard typing and mouse operation in an ergonomic position

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If a sliding member is added to the keyboard device to support mouse operation, then ergonomic operation is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveergonomic operationVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sliding member is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to slide between a stored position and a mouse-supporting position. This dynamic design enables the keyboard device to adapt its configuration based on whether the mouse is being used, providing ergonomic functionality when needed while maintaining a compact form when the mouse is stored

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The sliding member acts as an intermediary element that facilitates the transition between different operational states. It provides a smooth mechanical interface for placing and removing the mouse device, enabling ergonomic operation without requiring complex mounting or dismounting mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10488944B1Keyboard device
Publication Date: 2019.11.26 PRIMAX ELECTRONICS LTD
  • US10488944B1 patent drawing
  • US10488944B1 patent drawing
  • US10488944B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A keyboard device includes a keyboard base, a top cover, plural keys, a storing frame and a sliding member. The keyboard base includes a base slot. The keyboard base is covered by the top cover. The storing frame is fixed on a bottom surface of the top cover. A first end of the storing frame is arranged near the base slot. The sliding member is selectively stored within the storing frame or moved relative to the keyboard base to be partially protruded out of the base slot. When the keyboard device is in a storage state, the sliding member is stored within the storing frame. When the keyboard device is in a mouse operation state, the sliding member is partially protruded out of the storing frame and the base slot so as to support a mouse device.