Modular Laptop Keyboard Latching for Replaceable Key Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Laptop computers struggle to meet the specific requirements of e-sports users, such as favorable key pressing feel and fast signal transmission, due to their inability to replace keyboard components easily.

Innovation Solution

A modularized and replaceable keyboard design for laptop computers, featuring a detachable first key module and a fixed second key module, allowing users to replace key modules based on usage requirements, including pressing stroke, feel, and appearance effects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the keyboard of a laptop computer is made replaceable with modular key modules, then the adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvekeyboard adaptabilityVSAvoidkeyboard structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The keyboard is divided into multiple independent key modules (first key module and second key module) that can be separately assembled and disassembled from the bracket. Each key module contains specific keys that can be independently replaced, allowing users to customize the keyboard configuration without replacing the entire keyboard assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The latching member is designed to be movable between a latched position (securing the key module) and an unlatched position (releasing the key module). This dynamic mechanism allows the keyboard configuration to change from fixed to flexible, enabling easy replacement of key modules while maintaining structural integrity during normal use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If a latching mechanism is added to enable key module replacement, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvekey module replacement easeVSAvoidkeyboard manufacturing ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The latching member is designed to be operable by the user without requiring additional tools or complex mechanisms. The user can directly manipulate the latching member to move between latched and unlatched positions, enabling self-service replacement of key modules. The mechanism uses simple mechanical engagement between the latching member and the key module to achieve secure attachment and easy release.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the first key module is made detachable for customization, then the adaptability is improved, but the reliability of the keyboard connection may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvekey module interchangeabilityVSAvoidkeyboard connection reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The latching member is designed to provide secure engagement before any potential connection issues can arise. When the latching member is in the latched position, it firmly secures the first key module to the bracket, preventing accidental detachment during normal keyboard use. The mechanical engagement is designed to withstand typical typing forces and maintain reliable connection throughout the product lifecycle.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS20250053243A1Laptop computer

Publication Date: 2025.02.13 ACER INC

AI summary

A laptop computer includes a body, a bracket disposed in the body, a latching member movably disposed on the bracket, a first key module detachably assembled onto the bracket, and a second key module disposed on the bracket. A part of the first key module is located on a moving path of the latching member. The latching member is adapted to be driven by an external force to push the part of the first key module away from the bracket.