Keyboard Support Assembly Using Lattice Cover and Integrated Posts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable information handling systems face challenges in securely assembling keyboards due to the use of metal peg standoffs, which increase complexity, cost, and make repairs difficult, while also disrupting component placement and requiring inverted assembly steps.
Innovation Solution
A keyboard assembly method that couples to the portable information handling system's upper surface using a lattice cover and connector posts, allowing screws to be inserted from above, eliminating the need for metal peg standoffs and enabling secure attachment without exposing sensitive components during assembly or repair.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metal peg standoffs are used to support the keyboard, then the keyboard can be securely attached to the base, but the assembly complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the metal peg standoff component entirely and replaces it with a keyboard support surface that integrates directly into the base housing. This extraction of the problematic component eliminates the need for additional assembly steps while maintaining the keyboard support function.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyboard support surface is merged with the base housing structure, combining two functions (base structure and keyboard support) into a single integrated component. This eliminates the need for separate metal peg standoffs and simplifies the overall assembly.
2Reliability
If metal peg standoffs are used, then the keyboard can be supported, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the metal peg standoff component, the patent eliminates the need to purchase, inventory, and assemble additional parts, directly reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining keyboard support stability through the integrated support surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The base housing structure serves multiple functions: it provides the base structure, supports the keyboard through the integrated keyboard support surface, and eliminates the need for separate metal peg standoffs, thereby reducing component count and manufacturing cost.
3Reliability
If inverted assembly steps with screws are used, then the keyboard can be attached to the base, but the assembly and repair difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of inserting screws from the bottom of the base through the keyboard (inverted assembly), the patent uses a top-down approach where the keyboard is attached to the upper surface of the base, allowing assembly and repair operations to be performed from the top side, improving accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyboard support surface integrates directly into the base housing, allowing the keyboard to be attached and detached without requiring complex inverted assembly steps or specialized tools, making both assembly and repair operations simpler and more user-friendly.
4Reliability
If metal peg standoffs are used, then the keyboard can be supported, but the path through the motherboard is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the metal peg standoff component, the patent eliminates the need for it to pass through or disrupt the motherboard path. The keyboard support function is achieved through the integrated base housing structure, clearing the path for electronic components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent separates the mechanical keyboard support function from the electronic motherboard path by using an integrated base housing structure that provides support without requiring interruptions to the electronic component layout.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable information handling system keyboard rests on a support surface of a housing with securing actions taken from above the housing, such as by screws that insert through the keyboard and then into the housing. A lattice cover having key openings fits over the keyboard to align adapters of its bottom surface with posts extending from the support surface through openings formed in the keyboard. The adapters snap to the posts to couple the cover against the keyboard so that the cover bottom surface presses the keyboard against the information handling systems upper support surface.