Keyswitch Link Member Segmentation for Slim Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional scissor-type support mechanisms in keyswitches become difficult to assemble as they miniaturize, and may lead to damage or a weak linking effect, especially in slim keyboards.
Innovation Solution
A keyswitch design incorporating a first and second support member and a link member, where the link member is slidably and pivotally connected between the key cap and base, allowing for easy assembly and miniaturization, with restraining portions to ensure correct action and movement of the key cap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the conventional scissor-type support mechanism is miniaturized for smaller keyswitches, then the keyswitch size is reduced, but the assembly becomes difficult and may cause damage to the support member
Solution Approach 1:
The support mechanism is divided into separate support members and link members that can be assembled independently. The link member connects to the key cap at a seventh end portion between fifth and sixth end portions, allowing modular assembly without requiring manual pulling of opposite sides as in conventional scissor mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a conventional scissor mechanism where support members are pulled out from opposite sides, this invention inverts the assembly approach by having link members connect to the key cap at an intermediate position, enabling easier assembly while maintaining structural integrity at miniaturized scales.
2Volume of moving object
If the conventional scissor-type support mechanism is miniaturized, then the keyswitch size is reduced, but the linking effect inside the keyswitch becomes weak
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism is segmented into multiple link members (first support member, second support member, and link member) that work together to maintain strong linking effects even when the overall keyswitch size is reduced. Each member contributes to the cumulative linking strength.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple support members and link members are combined to work together as an integrated system. The link member with its seventh end portion connecting to the key cap combines the forces and movements of the first and second support members, creating a stronger overall linking effect than a single scissor mechanism could provide at miniaturized scales.
3Length of stationary object
If the keyswitch is miniaturized for slim keyboards, then the keyboard profile is reduced, but the assembly procedure becomes harder and may cause damage
Solution Approach 1:
The keyswitch is segmented into modular components (key cap, base, support members, link members) that can be assembled in a simplified sequence. The link member design with the seventh end portion allows for easier assembly compared to conventional scissor mechanisms, even when the overall keyswitch is miniaturized for slim keyboards.
Solution Approach 2:
The support members and link members are designed to self-align and connect through their slidable and pivotal connections, reducing the complexity of the assembly procedure and minimizing the risk of damage during assembly, even at miniaturized dimensions required for slim keyboards.
Data Source
AI summary
A keyswitch includes a key cap, a base, a first support member, a second support member and a link member. The base has a first restraining portion and a third restraining portion. The first support member is disposed between the key cap and the base. The first support member has a second restraining portion. The first restraining portion restrains the second restraining portion from moving in a direction perpendicular to the base. The second support member is disposed between the key cap and the base and opposite to the first support member. The second support member has a fourth restraining portion. The third restraining portion restrains the fourth restraining portion from moving in the direction perpendicular to the base. When the key cap is pressed to a bottom of the base, the second and fourth restraining portions are located under the first and third restraining portions respectively.