Modular Keyboard Frame for Multi-Layout Notebook Production
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Solution Overview
Problem
The production of notebook computer keyboards with different configurations (US, UK, and JIS) incurs increased costs due to the need for separate molds, as the limited space requires integration of various key regions differently.
Innovation Solution
A modular frame with selectively processable push-button hole groups allows for switching between keyboard configurations through punching, cutting, or hot melt processes, enabling the same frame to accommodate various configurations without material excess or shortage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If separate molds are developed for US, UK, and JIS keyboard configurations, then each configuration can be precisely manufactured, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single modular frame that can serve multiple keyboard configurations (US, UK, and JIS). The frame includes processing regions that can be selectively punched or cut to create different key hole patterns, allowing one frame design to fulfill multiple configuration requirements without needing separate molds for each keyboard type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the frame into modular components with distinct processing regions (first through seventh processing regions) that can be independently configured. Each region can be selectively modified through punching or cutting processes to create the specific key hole patterns required for different keyboard configurations, enabling precise manufacturing without separate molds.
2Manufacturing precision
If separate molds are developed for different keyboard configurations, then each configuration can be produced accurately, but material inventory management becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates inventory management complexity by creating a universal frame design that can produce all keyboard configurations. Instead of maintaining separate inventories of US, UK, and JIS specific frames, manufacturers can stock a single type of modular frame and configure it as needed through selective punching or cutting, simplifying supply chain and inventory management while maintaining configuration accuracy.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single modular frame is used for different keyboard configurations, then production costs are reduced, but the frame must accommodate multiple configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables a single frame to accommodate multiple configurations by segmenting it into distinct processing regions (first through seventh processing regions) that can be independently configured. Each region can be selectively punched or cut to create the specific key hole patterns required for different keyboard configurations, providing the necessary adaptability while maintaining cost efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the frame configuration adaptable and changeable rather than fixed. The processing regions can be selectively modified through punching or cutting processes to transform the frame from one configuration to another, allowing the same physical frame to dynamically adapt to different keyboard layout requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular frame including a push-button area is provided. The push-button area has a function key hole group, an alphabet key hole group, a number key hole group, a shift key hole, a space key hole, a backspace key hole, and an enter key hole. The shift key hole is located at one side of the alphabet key hole group and has a first processing region. The space key hole is disposed at a bottom end of the push-button area and has second, third, and fourth processing regions. The backspace key hole has a fifth processing region. The enter key hole is located below the backspace key hole and has sixth and seventh processing regions. The first to seventh processing regions may be selectively performed with a process to switch the modular frame to a first, second, or third configuration.