Swing Operation Input Device Reducing Height
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional keyswitches require more mechanical space for upright operation, leading to increased total height and complex assembly, which results in higher manufacturing and assembly costs.
Innovation Solution
The input device employs a swing operation mechanism using a supporting frame, flexible printed circuit, pivoted cap and hook, and a resilient component to reduce the moving height of the cap, allowing for fewer components and easier assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If upright operation is used for the keyswitch, then the cap can be supported and rebound effectively, but the total height of the device increases due to the need for more mechanical space for cap movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the movement direction of the cap from vertical (upright operation) to horizontal (swing operation). The cap is pivoted at one end and swings along an arc path when pressed, utilizing horizontal space instead of vertical space. This dimensional change allows the device to maintain the cap support and rebound function while significantly reducing the total height requirement.
2Reliability
If conventional structural components with resilient component are used, then the cap can be supported, but the device has large amounts of components and complicated assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into fewer components. The pivoted cap structure combines the support function, the rebound mechanism (through the swing arc and gravity), and the actuation mechanism into a single integrated component. The hook structure merges the pivot support and the actuation leverage point. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed compared to conventional designs that use separate resilient components, pivot mechanisms, and actuation elements.
3Ease of operation
If upright operation with more mechanical space is reserved, then the cap movement is smooth, but the internal mechanical space is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from vertical cap movement to horizontal swing movement. The cap pivots along an arc path in the horizontal plane when pressed, utilizing the horizontal dimension for movement rather than requiring vertical space. This allows smooth cap operation while minimizing the internal mechanical space volume, as the swing arc can be contained within a compact horizontal envelope.
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
This design reduces the internal mechanical space required and lowers manufacturing and assembly costs by enabling the cap to pivot instead of moving upright, thus minimizing the need for additional space and simplifying the assembly process.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient component disposed between the flexible printed circuit and the cap for being pressed by the cap to actuate the flexible printed circuit
Data Source
AI summary
An input device with swing operation includes a supporting frame, a flexible printed circuit installed on the supporting frame for outputting a signal, a supporting base fixed on the supporting frame, a cap pivoted to the supporting base, and a hook respectively pivoted to the supporting base and the cap. An inclined angle is formed between the hook and the supporting frame when the cap is not pressed down. The hook and the cap pivots relative to the supporting base when the cap is pressed down. The input device further includes a resilient component disposed between the flexible printed circuit and the cap for being pressed by the cap to actuate the flexible printed circuit when the cap is pressed down.