Pressure-Sensing Key Structure for Composite Input Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mechanical keys can only provide a simple on/off signal, limiting the types of instructions that can be input by users and failing to meet their needs for more complex input options.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a pressure sensing module electrically connected to a circuit board, which monitors the pressure applied by the user and generates composite signals based on the pressure, allowing for more nuanced command inputs through the use of a movable element and elastic elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single mechanical key is used, then the structure is simple, but the signal type is limited to simple on/off signals
Solution Approach 1:
The single key is segmented into multiple functional zones: a first region that triggers a first signal when pressed, and a second region that triggers a second signal when pressed. This segmentation allows one physical key to provide multiple signal types, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and signal versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The key cap is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating multiple pressing regions that can trigger different signals. The same physical key structure serves multiple purposes: it can generate different signals based on which region is pressed, eliminating the need for multiple separate keys while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple keys are used to provide composite signals, then the signal versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional keys are merged into a single key cap structure. The first and second regions are integrated into one physical key, allowing the system to provide composite signals through a unified structure rather than requiring separate keys for each function. This merging reduces device complexity while maintaining signal versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The single key cap structure is designed to perform multiple functions by incorporating different pressing regions. This multi-functional design allows one key to replace what would traditionally require multiple keys, providing composite signals without increasing the number of physical key components.
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 the provision of composite signals that can support a wider range of user inputs, enhancing user experience by allowing for varied commands based on pressing pressure and duration, such as in gaming or word processing.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic element disposed below the movable element. When the user presses or releases the movable element, and the elastic element is pressed and released
Data Source
AI summary
A key structure includes an upper cover, a movable element, an elastic element, a pressure sensing module, a base, and a circuit board. The pressure sensing module is arranged on the base, and the pressure sensing module is electrically connected with the circuit board. The pressure sensing module includes a pressure sensing element and a conducting element, and the pressure sensing element is configured for contacting with the movable element after being pressed, monitoring a pressure on the movable element, and converting the pressure into a pressure signal; the conducting element is configured for conducting the pressure signal to the circuit board.