Notebook Key Structure for Top-Side Keyboard Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional notebook computers require labor-intensive and time-consuming assembly and maintenance due to the use of numerous screws and rivets, necessitating the keyboard module to be removed for disassembly, which complicates the process.
Innovation Solution
A key structure comprising a base, bracket, sensing circuit, elastic member, and screwing member, where the screwing member passes through an opening in the sensing circuit, allowing the bracket to be screwed to the base, with the elastic member and key cap coaxially arranged to cover and shield the screwing member, facilitating assembly and disassembly from the top side of the body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the keyboard module is assembled with many screws and rivets, then the structural strength is improved, but the assembly complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated screwing member. This member simultaneously secures the bracket to the base and provides mounting points for the elastic member and key cap, eliminating the need for separate screws and rivets while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The screwing member serves multiple functions: it acts as a fastening element to secure the bracket, provides a mounting structure for the elastic member, and enables coaxial alignment of all key components. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of parts needed
2Ease of operation
If multiple keyholes are provided on the mainframe for keyboard assembly, then the ease of assembly is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the screwing member from the traditional peripheral fastening approach and relocates it to the central opening of the sensing circuit. This centralization eliminates the need for multiple distributed keyholes in the mainframe, reducing structural complexity while maintaining assembly ease
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a two-dimensional distribution of multiple keyholes across the mainframe to a three-dimensional centralized arrangement where the screwing member passes through the sensing circuit opening and secures components in stacked layers, reducing the footprint on the mainframe
3Ease of repair
If the keyboard module requires removal for maintenance of internal components, then the accessibility to internal components is improved, but the maintenance time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the keyboard module into distinct functional layers (bracket, sensing circuit, elastic member, key cap) that can be independently accessed. The screwing member design allows technicians to remove only the key cap and elastic member to access the sensing circuit and bracket, without requiring complete disassembly of the entire keyboard module
4Strength
If the screwing member is exposed, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where the elastic member is positioned to cover the screwing member, and the key cap is positioned to cover the elastic member. This nested configuration hides the structural screwing member from view while maintaining its fastening function, achieving both structural integrity and aesthetic appearance
Data Source
AI summary
A key structure includes a base, a bracket, a sensing circuit, an elastic member, a key cap, and a screwing member. The bracket is disposed on the base, the sensing circuit is disposed on the bracket, and the sensing circuit has an opening. The elastic member is disposed on the sensing circuit and covers the opening. The key cap is disposed on the elastic member. The screwing member passes through the opening and screws the bracket to the base, and the key cap, the elastic member, and the screwing member are coaxially arranged. In addition, a portable computer.