Multiple-Sloped Dome Element for Thin Keyboard Tactile Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dome-shaped assemblies in handheld electronic devices often lack noticeable tactile feedback, which is improved by adding elastomeric or compliant layers, but these increase the size and thickness of the keyboard or keypad.
Innovation Solution
A multiple-sloped dome-shaped element with an annular array of elastic elements, deflectable between an un-deflected and deflected position, provides a non-linear tactile response without the need for an elastomeric or compliant layer, allowing for a thinner keyboard assembly with enhanced tactile feel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If elastomeric or compliant layers are added to improve tactile feedback, then tactile feel is improved, but the thickness and size of the keyboard increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dome-shaped element is segmented into multiple functional zones with different slopes: a first sloped region, a second sloped region with different characteristics, and a third sloped region. Each region provides different mechanical response characteristics, collectively delivering enhanced tactile feedback without requiring additional elastomeric layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the dome-shaped element by creating multiple slopes with different angles and curvatures. This parameter variation allows the structure itself to provide progressive tactile feedback during compression, replacing the need for separate elastomeric materials while maintaining a thin profile.
2Weight of moving object
If the device is miniaturized for improved portability, then portability is improved, but the size of components such as keyboards decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing keyboard size or adding layers in the vertical dimension, the patent utilizes the dimensional space within the existing thin keyboard structure by creating complex three-dimensional slope configurations. This allows enhanced functionality without increasing the overall footprint or thickness.
3Device complexity
If a simple sphere segment dome assembly is used, then the structure is simple, but the tactile feedback is not noticeable
Solution Approach 1:
The dome assembly is divided into multiple sloped regions (first, second, and third slopes) with distinct geometric characteristics. This segmentation allows each region to contribute differently to the tactile response, creating noticeable feedback while maintaining a single-integrated structure without additional layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs varied curvatures across different regions of the dome-shaped element. The multiple slopes have different radius of curvature values, creating progressive resistance and tactile sensation during compression. This curvature variation enhances tactile feedback while preserving the overall dome geometry.
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 solution provides a noticeable non-linear tactile response to pressing forces, extending the ramp-up stage and travel distance, thus improving user feedback without increasing the device's size, maintaining portability while enhancing user interaction.
Implementation Method 1
The concave surface is deflectable between an un-deflected position and a deflected position
Implementation Method 2
The concave surface includes an annular array of elastic elements extending from the center to the periphery
Data Source
AI summary
A dome-shaped element disposable in a keyboard of an electronic device is provided. The dome-shaped element includes a concave surface originating at a center and terminating at a periphery. The concave surface includes an annular array of elastic elements extending from the center to the periphery. At least one of the elastic elements includes a first portion with a first slope proximate to the center and a second portion with a second slope proximate to the periphery. The concave surface is deflectable between an un-deflected position and a deflected position and is configured to affect an operation of the electronic device in the deflected position.