Keyswitch Buffer Layer Design for Noise Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Keyboards with balance bars generate noise due to the connecting section hitting the inner wall during operation, and existing solutions fail to effectively absorb impact energy and improve tactile feedback.
Innovation Solution
A keyswitch design incorporating a base plate with a linking portion, a membrane switch layer, a keycap, and at least one buffer layer, where the buffer layer absorbs the impact energy of the balance bar, allowing smooth sliding and reducing noise, while maintaining tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the connecting section of the balance bar passes through the linking portion without buffer layers, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the connecting section hits the inner wall during operation causing noise and poor tactile feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by introducing buffer layers between the connecting section of the balance bar and the inner wall of the linking portion. These buffer layers are positioned in advance to cushion and absorb impact energy before the connecting section can hit the inner wall, thereby eliminating noise and improving tactile feedback without complicating the overall structure
2Object-generated harmful factors
If buffer layers are added to absorb impact energy, then noise is eliminated and tactile feedback is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible thin film buffer layers that can be integrated into the existing structure. These thin film buffer layers provide the necessary cushioning and noise elimination functions while adding minimal complexity to the device, as they can be manufactured as thin flexible layers rather than bulky components
3Loss of energy
If the membrane elasticity coefficient is lower than the buffer elasticity coefficient, then the buffer layer effectively absorbs impact energy, but the membrane switch layer becomes less responsive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a differentiated elasticity structure where the buffer layer has higher elasticity coefficient localized at the impact absorption zone, while the membrane switch layer maintains its original lower elasticity coefficient for responsive tactile feedback. This localized differentiation allows each layer to perform its specific function optimally without compromising the other
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 keyswitch effectively absorbs impact energy to eliminate noise and enhances the tactile experience for the user by using buffer layers with higher elasticity coefficients than the membrane switch layer, ensuring smooth operation and maintaining keycap balance.
Implementation Method 1
a membrane elasticity coefficient of the contact portion is less than a buffer elasticity coefficient of the at least one buffer layer. The impact energy of the connecting section and the linking portion is mainly absorbed by the at least one buffer layer
Data Source
AI summary
A keyswitch includes a base plate, a keycap, a balance bar, at least one buffer layer, and a membrane switch layer disposed on a base plate. A linking portion of the base plate protruding upward penetrates through the membrane switch layer such that a contact portion of the membrane switch layer is located proximate to the linking portion. A connecting section of the balance bar passes through a through hole of the linking portion. The at least one buffer layer is formed on a lower surface of the contact portion, and extends along a first lateral path and a second lateral path. The contact portion supports the connecting section to abut against a top wall of the linking portion. When the keycap moves upward and downwards, the connecting section pivotally slides on the contact portion, between the first lateral path and the second lateral path.