Nested Keycap Structure for Wear-Resistant Character Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional keycap manufacturing processes are cumbersome, leading to low production efficiency and yield, and the character layer is prone to wear due to direct exposure to users.
Innovation Solution
The keycap design features an inner and outer keycap member with the character layer disposed between them, protecting it from direct contact and allowing for single- or double-layer paint application, simplifying the manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the character layer is made by spraying three layers of paint (coating, top paint, UV paint) with baking processes, then the character layer has complete protective functions, but the production process becomes cumbersome and production efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The keycap is divided into inner keycap member and outer keycap member, with the character layer disposed between them. This segmentation allows the character layer to be protected without requiring multiple paint layers, as the outer keycap member serves as the protective layer while enabling the character layer to be formed with fewer paint applications.
2Ease of operation
If the character layer is exposed to the outside for direct user contact, then the character layer is accessible and visible, but the character layer wears easily
Solution Approach 1:
The character layer is nested between the inner keycap member and the outer keycap member, similar to a nested doll structure. This arrangement allows the character layer to be protected by the outer keycap member while remaining visible and accessible through the transparent or translucent outer keycap member, thus preventing wear while maintaining usability.
3Reliability
If three layers of paint are superimposed to form the character layer, then the character layer has sufficient protection and durability, but the production yield decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective function previously requiring three layers of paint is extracted and transferred to the outer keycap member structure. The character layer only needs coating and baking processes without requiring additional top paint and UV paint layers, as the outer keycap member itself provides the necessary protection, thereby increasing production yield.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a keycap, method for manufacturing a keycap, and keyswitch. The keycap comprises an inner keycap member, an outer keycap member, and a character layer. The inner keycap member comprises an inner body and an inner sidewall. The inner sidewall is disposed on the periphery of the inner body. The outer keycap member is disposed on the inner keycap member. The outer keycap member comprises an outer body and an outer sidewall. The outer sidewall is disposed on the periphery of the outer body. The outer body is corresponding to the inner body. The outer sidewall corresponds to the inner sidewall. The character layer is disposed between the inner keycap member and the outer keycap member. The character layer comprises a character pattern disposed between the outer body and the inner body.