Multifunction Keyboard Integrating Touch and Mechanical Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of portable computing devices must frequently switch between different input devices, such as keyboards and touchpads, to perform mechanical and touch inputs, which can be inconvenient and disrupt workflow.
Innovation Solution
A multifunction input device that integrates mechanical and touch-sensing capabilities into a single structure, allowing users to provide both types of input simultaneously or separately using a touch-sensitive keyboard with a collapsible dome switch and a touch-sensing layer, enabling gestures and cursor control without hand movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard QWERTY keyboard is provided for mechanical input, then text input capability is improved, but the user must move hands to separate touch input devices for cursor control and icon selection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical key input and touch-sensitive input into a single keyboard structure. Each key cap includes both a mechanical switch for key presses and a touch-sensitive layer for finger contact, merging two separate input functions into one unified device that eliminates the need to move hands between different input devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyboard is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical key input for text entry, touch-sensitive input for cursor control and icon selection, and gesture recognition. This multi-functional design allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require separate keyboards, trackpads, or touchscreens.
2Productivity
If separate input devices are used for mechanical and touch input, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but workflow is disrupted by requiring hand movement between devices
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating touch-sensitive layers directly into the key caps and keyboard surface, the patent eliminates the time loss associated with moving hands between separate input devices. Users can perform text input, cursor control, and icon selection without lifting or relocating their hands, thereby improving workflow efficiency and reducing time loss.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a touch-sensitive layer is integrated into each key, then both mechanical and touch input are enabled on a single surface, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the touch-sensitive input system into discrete segments, with each key cap containing its own touch-sensitive layer and mechanical switch assembly. This segmentation allows each key to be manufactured and tested independently before final assembly, reducing overall manufacturing complexity compared to integrating a single large touch-sensitive surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The design nests the touch-sensitive layer within the key cap structure, with the touch-sensitive film positioned between the key cap surface and the mechanical switch. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional layers to be integrated in a compact configuration, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining both mechanical and touch input capabilities.
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 seamless transition between input types on a single surface, enhancing user experience by allowing continuous operation without hand movement and improving workflow efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a touch-sensing layer attached to the keycap
Implementation Method 2
an array of force-sensitive structures attached to a top surface of the keycap
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a multi-function input device, such as a keyboard. The multifunction input device has a touch-sensing layer that enables a user to use the multifunction input device as a standard keyboard and also as a touch sensitive surface such as, for example, a trackpad.