Keyboard Touch Sensor Structure for Independent Key Deformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional touch sensitive mechanical keyboards suffer from restricted tactile sensation due to the deformation of the touch sensitive structure being affected by a decorative layer, which is made of different materials and adhered to the touch sensitive structure, leading to a compromised user experience.
Innovation Solution
A touch sensor design featuring a base layer with main sensor structures and resilient structures that allow independent deformation, where the resilient structures have a cross-sectional width less than the gap between adjacent main sensor structures, enabling partial deformation and improved tactile sensation without interfering with keycap motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the touch sensitive structure is adhered to the decorative layer, then the decorative layer provides protection and aesthetic coverage, but the deformation of the touch sensitive structure is restricted, affecting tactile sensation
Solution Approach 1:
The base layer is divided into arrangement portions (for sensor electrodes) and connecting portions (for connecting wires), creating a segmented structure that allows independent deformation of sensor regions while maintaining overall structural integrity through the connecting portions
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the base layer are given different functional qualities: arrangement portions are optimized for sensor functionality while connecting portions are designed for flexibility and deformation, allowing each region to perform its specific function optimally
2Adaptability or versatility
If the membrane or FPC is made of flexible material, then the touch sensitive structure can deform under key pressure, but the deformation amount is restricted by adjacent portions, affecting tactile sensation
Solution Approach 1:
The base layer is segmented into arrangement portions and connecting portions, allowing the arrangement portions to deform independently under key pressure while the connecting portions provide structural support and electrical connectivity
Solution Approach 2:
The base layer structure is designed to be dynamically adaptable: the connecting portions can stretch and deform to accommodate key presses, while the arrangement portions maintain their sensor functionality, creating a dynamic system that responds to user input
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 design enhances tactile sensation in touch sensitive keyboards by allowing individual deformation of main sensor structures under pressure, preventing interference with keycap motion and providing a better user experience.
Implementation Method 1
each of the resilient structures has a cross-sectional width less than a width of the gap... allowing individual deformation of main sensor structures under pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A touch sensor and a keyboard using the same are provided. The touch sensor includes a plurality of main sensor structures and a plurality of resilient structures. Any two adjacent ones of the main sensor structures have a gap therebetween. Each of the resilient structures is connected between two adjacent ones of the main sensor structures, and each of the resilient structures has a cross-sectional width that is less than a width of the gap.