Replaceable Key Structure for Analog Signal Output
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional keyboards can only output digital signals, limiting their ability to process analog controls required for gaming and software applications, necessitating additional equipment like gamepads or mice for tasks that require fine adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A replaceable key structure featuring a key holder with a mounting slot, a circuit board with a magnetic sensor and contact connector, and key modules with movable shafts and springs, allowing for both analog and digital signal output through magnetic induction and trigger switches, respectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional key modules with trigger switches are used, then digital signal output is achieved, but analog signal output capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The key module is designed with dual functionality: it can output both digital signals (through the trigger switch) and analog signals (through the magnetic sensor detecting shaft position). This allows a single key module to replace multiple specialized modules, enabling the keyboard to handle both digital commands and analog controls for gaming and software applications.
Solution Approach 2:
A magnetic coupling mechanism is introduced as an intermediary between the shaft and the magnetic sensor. The magnetic element attached to the shaft creates a magnetic field that the magnetic sensor detects, allowing non-contact signal transmission. This intermediary enables analog signal output without mechanical contact, preserving the trigger switch's digital signaling capability while adding analog functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional equipment like gamepads or mice are used for analog controls, then analog signal processing capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the analog control capability directly into the keyboard's key module, merging previously separate functions (keyboard for digital input, gamepad for analog input) into a single integrated device. The magnetic sensor and shaft assembly enable analog control within the keyboard structure, eliminating the need for external gamepads or specialized controllers.
Solution Approach 2:
The key module becomes a universal control element that can provide both digital signals (for traditional keyboard functions) and analog signals (for gaming and fine-adjustment software controls). This multi-functionality allows the keyboard to replace multiple specialized devices, reducing system complexity and cost.
3Measurement precision
If a magnetic sensor and magnetic element system is added to enable analog signals, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based position detection with a magnetic field-based detection system. The magnetic element attached to the shaft creates a magnetic field that the magnetic sensor detects, allowing non-contact, high-precision position measurement. This substitution eliminates wear and tear from mechanical contacts while providing continuous analog position data for precise control.
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 flexible and precise control signals for gaming and software applications, breaking the digital signal limitation of conventional keyboards and enhancing user interaction with analog signal capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
the magnetic sensor outputs an analog signal by inducing a magnetic field of the magnetic element, and a strength of the analog signal is changed according to a distance between the magnetic element and the magnetic sensor
Implementation Method 2
the shaft is capable of returning to the topmost position by a recovering force of the spring when the external force is removed
Data Source
AI summary
A replaceable key structure includes a key holder and a circuit board. The key holder is disposed above a circuit board. The key holder is formed with a mounting slot for selectively receiving a first key module or a second key module therein. A magnetic sensor and a contact connector are disposed on the circuit board positionally corresponding to the mounting slot of the key holder. The first key module has a shaft, and a magnetic element disposed on the bottom of the shaft. The magnetic sensor can output an analog signal when the magnetic element approaches. The second key module has a trigger switch which has two electrical terminals disposed on the bottom surface of the second key module. When the second key module is installed in the mounting slot, the electrical terminals can be electrically connected to the contact connector.