Swing Operation Input Device Reducing Total Height
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional keyswitches require more mechanical space for upright operation, leading to increased total height and complex assembly, resulting in higher manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
The input device employs a swing operation mechanism with a cap pivoted to a supporting base, utilizing a resilient conductive component and a flexible flat cable, reducing the need for additional space and simplifying assembly by using fewer components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If upright operation mechanism is used, then the cap can rebound properly, but the total height of the input device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional upright operation mechanism by implementing a swing operation where the cap rotates horizontally around a pivot point instead of moving vertically. The cap is connected to the supporting base through a pivot joint, allowing it to swing between a normal position and a pressed position, thereby achieving rebound function while reducing total height.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the dimension of cap movement from vertical (upright operation) to horizontal (swing operation). By rotating the cap around a horizontal pivot axis, the movement occurs in a different dimensional plane, enabling the cap to achieve proper rebound while occupying less vertical space and reducing the total height of the input device.
2Reliability
If scissors-type frame and rubber dome are used, then the cap can operate upright, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple components into fewer integrated parts. The cap is directly pivoted to the supporting base through a pivot joint, eliminating the need for separate scissors-type frames and rubber domes. The resilient conductive component is integrated between the printed circuit board and the cap, combining support and electrical function in a single element, thereby simplifying the overall structure and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes unnecessary components from the conventional keyswitch structure. By eliminating the scissors-type frame and rubber dome while retaining the essential rebound and electrical contact functions through the swing mechanism and resilient conductive component, the design reduces part count and simplifies assembly without compromising operational reliability.
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 total height of the input device, conserves mechanical space, and lowers manufacturing and assembly costs while maintaining operational functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient conductive component disposed between the printed circuit board and the cap for being pressed by the cap to conduct the printed circuit board when the cap is pressed down
Implementation Method 2
the supporting base is fixed on the printed circuit board in a hot melt manner
Data Source
AI summary
An input device includes a printed circuit board for outputting a signal, a supporting base fixed on the printed circuit board, and a cap pivoted to the supporting base. A protrusion is formed on an end of the cap for contacting against the printed circuit board when the cap is not pressed down. The cap pivots relative to the supporting base when the cap is pressed down. The input device further includes a resilient conductive component disposed between the printed circuit board and the cap for being pressed by the cap to conduct the printed circuit board when the cap is pressed down.