Waterproof Keyboard Switch Assembly with Sliding Channel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional keyboard switches are prone to short circuits due to water permeation through gaps between the driving plunger and base, which adheres to the movable and static plates, causing electrical issues.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof assembly for keyboard switches is designed, comprising a body element, waterproof cover, sliding channel, and pushing rod, with features like a gasket, ultrasonic welding, and oil storage grooves to prevent water ingress, and a convex protuberance for enhanced water resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional keyboard switch structure is used, then the device complexity is low, but water permeates through gaps causing short circuits and reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard switch is divided into separate functional modules: a base, a top cover, and a waterproof assembly. The waterproof assembly itself is segmented into a waterproof cover, sliding channel, pushing rod, and conductive member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while contributing to overall waterproof performance without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A waterproof cover is introduced as an intermediary component between the base and top cover. This waterproof cover includes a sliding channel that acts as a mediator to guide the pushing rod while preventing water from reaching the conductive members. The intermediary structure effectively blocks water penetration paths without requiring complete redesign of the entire switch assembly.
2Reliability
If the keyboard switch is made waterproof with multiple components, then reliability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the waterproof assembly into distinct components (waterproof cover, sliding channel, pushing rod, conductive member), each part can be manufactured separately using optimized processes and then assembled. This segmentation enables specialized manufacturing techniques for each component while simplifying quality control and assembly procedures compared to manufacturing a monolithic waterproof structure.
3Ease of operation
If gaps are left for the pushing rod to move, then ease of operation is maintained, but water can permeate through causing short circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding channel serves as an intermediary structure that accommodates the pushing rod's movement while preventing water penetration. The channel provides a controlled pathway that allows the pushing rod to move freely for switch operation, yet its enclosed structure blocks water from following the rod into the conductive member area. This intermediary design simultaneously satisfies operational requirements and waterproofing needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding channel is designed with flexible sealing features that maintain their sealing function while accommodating the movement of the pushing rod. The channel structure acts as a flexible barrier that adapts to the rod's motion without compromising the waterproof seal, allowing ease of operation while maintaining reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively prevents water from reaching the conductive members, ensuring reliable operation by maintaining a watertight seal and preventing short circuits, thus enhancing the waterproofing of keyboard switches.
Implementation Method 1
The gasket is arranged between the body element and the waterproof cover. The gasket is used to enhance compactness of a junction between the conductive member accommodating groove and the waterproof cover, thereby improving waterproof effect.
Implementation Method 2
an ultrasonic welding layer is provided at a junction between the body element and the waterproof cover. The ultrasonic welding layer is applied to seal the junction between the body element and the waterproof cover, so as to achieve a better waterproof effect.
Data Source
AI summary
A waterproof assembly is adapted for a keyboard switch. The water proof assembly includes a body element, a water proof cover, a sliding channel, and a pushing rod. The body element defines a plunger guiding groove and a conductive member accommodating groove. The waterproof cover covers the conductive member accommodating groove. The sliding channel is defined between the conductive member accommodating groove and the waterproof cover, and is communicated with the plunger guiding groove and the conductive member accommodating groove. The pushing rod is mounted inside the sliding channel to control a conductive member of the keyboard switch to be turned on or turned off.