Light-transmission Key Module with Dynamic Display Panel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current key modules in keyboards are unable to change the image on the key body, making it difficult for users to determine the input command corresponding to each key at a glance, as the image and command are fixed at the factory and only the input command can be switched using a macro key.
Innovation Solution
A key module design that includes a light-transmission key body and a display panel, where the display panel is positioned below the key body to show an image corresponding to the key, allowing users to see the image through the key and change both the image and input command using a control unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the image on the key body is fixed at the factory, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the user cannot identify the input command at a glance and cannot customize the key function
Solution Approach 1:
The key module is divided into separate functional layers: a light-transmission key body for mechanical input and a display panel for visual information display. This segmentation allows the image display function to be independently controlled and updated without affecting the mechanical key structure, enabling users to identify input commands at a glance while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A display panel is introduced as an intermediary between the key body and the user. This display panel shows the current input command image, mediating the communication between the fixed key body and the variable input commands. The display panel acts as a visual mediator that updates to reflect the current function of the key, solving the problem of identifying input commands without requiring physical changes to the key body.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the image on the key body is fixed, then the manufacturing cost is low, but the user cannot customize the text or symbol on the key
Solution Approach 1:
The display panel is configured to dynamically change the displayed image according to different input commands. While the physical key body remains static, the visual representation on the display panel is dynamic and can be updated to reflect different functions, macros, or commands assigned to the key. This dynamic display capability provides adaptability and customizability without requiring a complex reconfigurable physical structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a macro key is provided to switch input commands, then the user can change the function, but the image on the key body cannot be correspondingly changed
Solution Approach 1:
The display panel provides visual feedback that corresponds to the current input command or macro assigned to the key body. When the user switches the input command using the macro key, the display panel automatically updates to show the new command's image or text. This feedback mechanism ensures that users can visually confirm the current function of the key, preventing information loss and improving usability.
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
Enables users to easily identify the input command for each key by displaying corresponding images, allowing for customizable text or symbols on macro or special function keys through software, enhancing user interaction and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light-transmission key body... The display panel is disposed at the base and has at least one display region... an image displayed on the display region of the display panel is changeable
Data Source
AI summary
A key module including a base, a circuit layer, at least one light-transmission key body, and a display panel is provided. The circuit layer is disposed at the base and has at least one input portion. The light-transmission key body has an abutting end and a pressing end opposite to each other. The abutting end abuts the base, and the light-transmission key body is adapted to be pressed downward by taking the abutting end as a rotation axis, such that the pressing end presses the input portion. The display panel is disposed at the base and has at least one display region, the display region is aligned with the light-transmission key body, and an image displayed on the display region by the display panel is changeable.