Touch Panel Auxiliary Key Mounting Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing product sales data processing apparatus has a fixed auxiliary key attachment point on the outer shell, making it difficult to reduce the overall size while accommodating various card reading devices as a payment terminal.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus with a touch panel and an input auxiliary device featuring a frame with through holes and a key unit, allowing the key tops to be inserted and pushed down for input assistance, which reduces the size of the apparatus without the need for a dedicated fixing portion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed auxiliary key attachment point is provided on the outer shell member, then the auxiliary key can be stably fixed, but the apparatus size cannot be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing portion is integrated into the display device structure rather than being provided separately on the outer shell member. The display device's outer shell member serves dual purposes: as a structural component and as the mounting surface for the auxiliary key, eliminating the need for additional dedicated fixing portions and reducing overall apparatus size.
Solution Approach 2:
The outer shell member of the display device is designed to serve multiple functions: providing structural support, housing the display, and serving as the mounting surface for the auxiliary key. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated fixing portions, thereby reducing the overall apparatus size while maintaining stable key fixation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If various card reading devices are added to the apparatus, then the functionality is enhanced, but the apparatus size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary key is positioned on the display device structure, utilizing the vertical or lateral space of the display housing rather than occupying additional horizontal space on the apparatus body. This dimensional reorganization allows card reading devices to be integrated without increasing the overall footprint of the apparatus.
3Reliability
If a dedicated fixing portion is provided for the auxiliary key, then the key can be securely mounted, but the apparatus complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing portion is merged with the display device's outer shell member structure. The same structural component that forms the display housing also provides the mounting surface and fixation mechanism for the auxiliary key, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining secure key mounting.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes: a body having a top configured to allow a touch panel to be disposed thereon; and an input auxiliary device. The input auxiliary device includes: a frame including a first holding piece and a second holding piece configured to hold one side and another side of the body, respectively, to mount the frame on the top; and a key unit attachable to a backside of the frame. The one side includes: a card slot; and a second underside extending along the top toward the another side between the top and the card slot. The first holding piece is configured to be locked to the second underside.