Thin Mechanical Keyboard Switch X-Shaped Balance Rack
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thin type mechanical keyboard switches face limitations in providing a satisfactory sense of touch and sound reaction due to insufficient elastic force and internal space constraints, leading to instability and poor user experience.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a base with a balance rack, torsional spring, tension spring, guiding core, and conducting component with static and dynamic contacts, along with a cover and stator, to enhance stability, sound generation, and tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a metal contact sheet is used as a dynamic contact piece in a thin type keyboard switch, then the switch thickness is reduced, but the elastic force becomes insufficient and the sense of pressing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The balance rack is divided into two separate U-shaped racks (left and right) that intersect to form an X-shape. This segmentation allows each rack to independently provide elastic support while collectively achieving better force distribution and stability within the limited thickness space.
Solution Approach 2:
The balance rack transitions from a traditional single-plane structure to a three-dimensional X-shaped configuration. The left and right U-shaped racks are arranged in different planes that intersect, creating a spatial structure that maximizes elastic force generation within the constrained thickness dimension.
2Length of moving object
If the internal space of the thin type keyboard switch is limited, then the switch thickness is reduced, but the sound reaction during pressing cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The X-shaped balance rack structure is designed to generate mechanical vibration and clicking sound when the keycap is pressed. The interaction between the left and right U-shaped racks creates a snapping motion that produces the desired sound reaction, transforming the limitation of thin space into a feature for enhanced tactile feedback.
3Device complexity
If traditional single balance lever structure is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the balancing performance and stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The single balance lever is segmented into two separate U-shaped racks that work together. This segmentation improves balancing performance by distributing the load and providing redundant support paths, enhancing overall stability while maintaining reasonable structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The left and right U-shaped racks are positioned asymmetrically relative to each other, forming an X-shape. This asymmetric arrangement optimizes the balance and stability of the keycap, allowing for better force distribution and more reliable tactile feedback compared to a symmetric single-lever design.
4Device complexity
If the dynamic contact is directly subjected to pressing force, then the conducting component structure is simplified, but the deformation risk increases and stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A piston is introduced as an intermediary component between the guiding core and the dynamic contact. The piston receives the pressing force from the guiding core and transmits it to the dynamic contact, preventing direct application of force that could cause deformation. This intermediary structure enhances reliability by distributing and controlling the force transmission path.
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
The combination of an X-shaped balance rack with tension springs improves stability and sound production, while the conducting component's controlled force reduces deformation risk, enhancing the overall user experience through balanced performance and tactile feedback.
Implementation Method 1
a second side accommodating groove (12), in which a torsional spring (5) is arranged
Implementation Method 2
a middle accommodating groove (13), in which a blocking piece (6), a hanging piece (7), a tension spring (8) and a guiding core (9) are arranged. One end of the tension spring (8) is clamped in the guiding core (9) and connected with the hanging piece (7), and the other end of the tension spring (8) is connected with the balance rack (4)
Data Source
AI summary
A thin type mechanical keyboard switch including a base and a keycap arranged on the base is provided. The base is provided with a first side accommodating groove, a conducting component. The base is further provided with a second side accommodating groove, a middle accommodating groove disposed between the first and the second side accommodating grooves, and a surrounding groove arranged around an upper end edge of the base. A balance rack is arranged in the surrounding groove, and the second side accommodating groove is provided with a torsional spring. The middle accommodating groove is provided with a blocking piece, a hanging piece, a tension spring and a guiding core. A through groove is formed between the first side accommodating groove and the middle accommodating groove. The through groove—is provided with a piston located between the guiding core and the conducting component.