Touch Key Module Layout for Dual Input and Independent Backlight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing keyboards lack the ability to provide independent light emission and dual input options, such as pressing and touching, which limits their functionality and user experience.
Innovation Solution
A key module design incorporating a touch member, flexible circuit board, and a backlight assembly with a bottom plate, circuit layer, and key cap that allows for independent light emission and dual input options through a touch-sensitive mechanism, where the flexible circuit board is protected and the light source is covered by the key cap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If side-emitting light sources and light guide plate are used for backlight, then light can be emitted to the entire keyboard, but light cannot be exclusively provided to specific keys
Solution Approach 1:
The backlight system is segmented into individual key-level light sources rather than using a continuous light guide plate. Each key has its own light source that can be independently controlled, allowing selective illumination of specific keys while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Ease of operation
If flexible circuit board is exposed for touch member connection, then electrical connection is achieved, but appearance is compromised and protection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible circuit board is routed through a vertical path from the bottom plate, passing through openings in the circuit layer and bottom plate, to reach the touch member on the key cap. This three-dimensional routing conceals the circuit board within the keyboard structure, maintaining a clean appearance while preserving touch functionality.
3Ease of operation
If key cap moves downward for pressing input, then mechanical input is achieved, but flexible circuit board may be damaged due to bending
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible circuit board is positioned to bend along a predetermined path between the key cap and bottom plate, with sufficient space allocated for this bending motion. This intermediary routing allows the key cap to move downward for pressing input while the circuit board flexes within its designed range, preventing damage and maintaining reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A key module includes a bottom plate, a circuit layer, a key cap, a supporting structure, a touch member, and a flexible circuit board. The bottom plate has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other. The circuit layer is disposed on the first surface and has a first opening. The key cap is disposed above the circuit layer and covers the first opening. The supporting structure is disposed between the bottom plate and the key cap. The touch member is disposed at the key cap. The flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the touch member and passes through the first opening to extend next to the second surface of the bottom plate. When the key cap moves downward relative to the bottom plate, a portion of the flexible circuit board located between the key cap and the bottom plate is bent.