Movable Keyboard With Conductive Sliding Mechanisms

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional notebook computers with fixed keyboard modules lack user-friendly input options, especially when dealing with large character inputs, as they rely on touch virtual keyboards which are not intuitive for most users.

Innovation Solution

A keyboard device with conductive sliding mechanisms that allows for movement relative to the computing device, equipped with a power supply unit for independent operation, enabling adjustable positioning and wireless communication for enhanced usability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a fixed keyboard module is installed on the notebook computer, then the installation position is stable and reliable, but the keyboard module cannot be moved or adjusted according to user needs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of keyboard positionVSAvoidfixed installation position
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed keyboard module into a movable one through sliding mechanisms. The keyboard module can now slide along the first flat plate in a sliding direction, allowing users to adjust its position dynamically while maintaining stable electrical connections through conductive sliding mechanisms that ensure continuous contact during movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If a touch virtual keyboard is used on the display screen, then the device structure is simplified, but the input efficiency and user experience deteriorate when inputting large numbers of characters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharacter input efficiencyVSAvoidkeyboard structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by separating the physical keyboard module from the display screen area. The keyboard module is installed on the first flat plate independently, allowing users to choose between physical keyboard input for high-efficiency character entry and touch screen input for other operations, thus improving productivity without excessive structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the keyboard module is electrically connected through a cable to the internal circuit, then the electrical connection is reliable, but the keyboard module cannot be detached or repositioned

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverepositionability of keyboardVSAvoidelectrical connection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses conductive sliding mechanisms as intermediaries between the keyboard module and the first flat plate. These mechanisms include conductive members that maintain reliable electrical connections while allowing the keyboard module to slide and reposition. The conductive sliding mechanisms ensure continuous electrical contact during movement, resolving the contradiction between repositionability and connection stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Adaptability or versatility

If a dual-screen notebook computer is designed with a display screen replacing the keyboard region, then the device functionality is expanded, but the traditional physical keyboard input capability is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay functionalityVSAvoidphysical keyboard input
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves this contradiction by adding spatial dimensionality to the keyboard placement. Instead of replacing the keyboard region entirely with a display screen, the physical keyboard module is positioned on the first flat plate adjacent to or overlapping with the display area. This allows the keyboard to occupy a different spatial arrangement, enabling both physical keyboard input and dual-screen display functionality to coexist without interfering with each other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 keyboard device can be moved to desired positions for improved user convenience and remains operational when detached from the computing device, offering a more intuitive input method and maintaining functionality through its integrated power supply and wireless connectivity.

Implementation Method 1

When an external force is exerted on the keyboard module, the sliding base is moved relative to the conductive member by using the conductive member as a fulcrum, and the keyboard module is moved relative to the first system module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLever: Lever

Implementation Method 2

The conductive member is electrically connected with the first system module and the keyboard module. The power supply unit is charged by the first system module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS20200174523A1Keyboard device
Publication Date: 2020.06.04 PRIMAX ELECTRONICS LTD
  • US20200174523A1 patent drawing
  • US20200174523A1 patent drawing
  • US20200174523A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A keyboard device for a computing device is provided. The computing device includes a first system module and a second system module. The keyboard device includes a keyboard module and at least two conductive sliding mechanisms. The keyboard module is installed on the first system module. The keyboard module includes a power supply unit. The power supply unit provides electric power for powering the keyboard module. The keyboard module is movable relative to the first system module through the conductive sliding mechanisms. Each conductive sliding mechanism includes a sliding base and a conductive member. The sliding base is installed on the keyboard module. The conductive member is electrically connected with the first system module and the keyboard module. When the sliding base is moved relative to the conductive member, the keyboard module is moved relative to the first system module.