Optical Multi-Stage Key Structure for Precise Trigger Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing key structures lack multi-stage triggering functions and sensitivity, failing to meet the needs of users requiring precise and instantaneous key operations, particularly in gaming scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A multi-stage key structure incorporating a reflective optical component with a light emitter and receiver, a base plate, and a keycap with a light-blocking reflective member, which changes the distance between components to alter light reception and output an analog signal for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional key structure is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it can only switch between on and off without multi-stage triggering functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical key switch detection with an optical detection system. A light emitter emits light toward a reflective member on the keycap, and a light receiver detects the reflected light. When the keycap is pressed, the distance between the reflective member and the optical component changes, altering the light reception intensity. This optical system enables multi-stage triggering functions by detecting different light intensity levels corresponding to different key press depths, thereby achieving enhanced adaptability without relying on complex mechanical structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical component serves multiple functions: it detects key press status, determines pressing depth through light intensity variation, and enables multi-stage triggering. The same optical system can detect different pressing stages by comparing light reception levels, making the key structure versatile for various applications including gaming and precision control where multi-stage feedback is needed.
2Measurement precision
If a traditional key structure is used, then the manufacturing cost is low, but the sensitivity and precision for instantaneous key operations are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical switches or capacitive sensors with an optical detection system. The light emitter and light receiver form an optical path that is interrupted or modified when the keycap is pressed. By measuring changes in light intensity or reflection, the system achieves high-precision detection of key press timing and depth. This optical approach provides superior measurement precision for instantaneous key operations compared to traditional mechanical or electrical contacts, enabling accurate gaming and control applications.
3Measurement precision
If the light-blocking reflective member is positioned close to the optical component, then the sensitivity is high, but the risk of false detection from ambient light increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective member acts as an intermediary between the light emitter and light receiver. It reflects light from the emitter back to the receiver when the keycap is in the unpressed state, creating a controlled optical path. When the keycap is pressed, the reflective member moves, changing the reflection geometry and reducing light reception. This intermediary mechanism allows the system to distinguish between ambient light and actual key press signals, as only light following the specific reflection path through the reflective member will be detected by the receiver.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the light emitter directly face the light receiver with the keycap blocking light when pressed, the system inverts the approach by using a reflective member that directs light to the receiver when the keycap is unpressed. The keycap press action disrupts this reflected light path, causing the receiver to detect reduced light intensity. This inverted configuration enhances sensitivity while naturally filtering ambient light interference, as the receiver only detects light that has specifically reflected from the movable reflective member.
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 multi-stage triggering and improved sensitivity, allowing accurate control of key operations and personalized usage experiences by altering light intensity based on key pressure.
Implementation Method 1
the light emitter is configured to emit a light beam toward the light-blocking reflective member, and the light-blocking reflective member is configured to reflect the light beam to the light receiver
Implementation Method 2
the keycap has a light-blocking reflective member facing the light emitter and the light receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-stage key structure includes a circuit board, a reflective optical component, a base plate and a keycap. The reflective optical component includes a light emitter and a light receiver that are disposed over the circuit board and separated from each other. The base plate is disposed over the circuit board and has at least one first through hole accommodating the reflective optical component. The keycap has a light-blocking reflective member facing the light emitter and the light receiver of the reflective optical component, in which the light emitter is configured to emit a light beam toward the light-blocking reflective member, and the light-blocking reflective member is configured to reflect the light beam to the light receiver.