Keyboard Switch Link Member Configuration for Deformation-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional key switch devices face issues with smooth operation due to potential deformation of guide holes or sliding spindles during assembly, which can hinder the parallel movement of operation units, especially when corner parts are pressed.
Innovation Solution
A switch design that eliminates the need for snap fits by using a coupling portion to turnably couple link members, allowing them to be folded and spread, with a movement space on the base or operation unit to support the link members without causing elastic deformation, ensuring smooth operation and preventing damage from deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a snap fit assembly method is used to fix the link member to the base, then the assembly process is simplified and productivity is improved, but the guide hole or sliding spindle may be deformed during assembly, hindering smooth operation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the problematic snap fit assembly method from the system and replaces it with a deformation-free assembly approach. The link member is designed to be assembled without snap fits, eliminating the source of deformation while maintaining assembly efficiency through alternative positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies beforehand cushioning by designing the link member with sufficient thickness and appropriate material properties to prevent deformation during assembly. The structural design anticipates potential deformation issues and compensates for them through proper dimensional planning and material selection.
2Length of moving object
If the link member is made thin to achieve a low profile, then the keyboard thickness is reduced, but the link member becomes prone to deformation during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies parameter changes by optimizing the thickness and material properties of the link member. Instead of simply making it thinner, the design adjusts multiple parameters including thickness, material strength, and structural geometry to achieve the right balance between low profile and deformation resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes composite materials or material composites to achieve high strength-to-thickness ratio. By selecting appropriate materials with superior mechanical properties, the link member can maintain thin dimensions while resisting deformation during assembly and operation.
3Ease of manufacture
If the link member is made elastic to enable snap fit assembly, then assembly is facilitated, but the elasticity may cause deformation of the guide hole or sliding spindle
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the elastic snap fit mechanism from the system and replaces it with a rigid or semi-rigid assembly approach. By eliminating the elastic deformation mechanism, the harmful effect of deforming guide holes and sliding spindles is prevented while maintaining assembly capability through alternative methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention accepts that the link member may be a sacrificial or replaceable component, designed to be assembled without causing damage to more critical components like guide holes and sliding spindles. The link member's design prioritizes protecting other components over its own permanent deformation resistance.
Data Source
AI summary
A switch has a base, an operation unit disposed above the base and moving in a contacting-separating direction with respect to the base in response to an external force, a pair of link members configured to guide movement of the operation unit in the contacting-separating direction, and a coupling portion configured to turnably couple the pair of link members to each other. Each of the pair of link members each includes a coupling-portion-side supported portion supported on one of the base and the operation unit and an end-side supported portion supported on the other of the base and the operation unit. One of the base and the operation unit on which the coupling-portion-side supported portion is supported includes a wall surface provided with a movement space.