Ultrathin Keyboard Switch Layout Without Under-Key FPC
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laptop keyboard designs are thick due to the inclusion of flexible printed circuits (FPCs) underneath the keys, which contributes to a significant portion of the overall device thickness and complexity, limiting design flexibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The keyboard switch mechanism is redesigned to incorporate actuation circuitry near or around the keys instead of underneath them, eliminating the need for FPCs and allowing for a thinner profile while maintaining tactile feel and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If FPC is used underneath the keys for key actuation detection, then key actuation functionality is achieved, but keyboard thickness increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar FPC layout underneath keys to a three-dimensional arrangement where conductive pads are positioned on vertical or angled surfaces of the key switch housing. This dimensional change allows the conductive path to be formed without requiring additional horizontal space, thereby reducing keyboard thickness while maintaining actuation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive pads and circuitry are nested within the key switch housing structure itself, rather than being separate components underneath the keys. The housing walls are configured to provide the conductive surfaces, integrating the circuitry into the mechanical structure and eliminating the need for a separate FPC layer.
2Ease of operation
If FPC is used for key actuation detection, then key press signaling is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mechanical key switch housing with the electrical circuitry by using the housing walls themselves as the conductive pads and signal paths. This merging of structural and electrical functions eliminates the need for a separate FPC component, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining key press signaling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The key switch housing serves multiple functions: it provides the mechanical structure for key actuation, contains the spring mechanism, and simultaneously serves as the electrical circuit board through its conductive pad configurations. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in the keyboard assembly.
3Ease of operation
If FPC is used underneath keys, then key actuation detection is achieved, but water resistance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By moving the conductive pads from a horizontal plane underneath the keys to vertical or angled surfaces within the key switch housing, the patent creates a structure where water must travel against gravity and through tighter clearances to reach the electrical contacts. This dimensional reconfiguration inherently improves water resistance while maintaining detection functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a keyboard includes keys disposed in respective holes of a housing, a set of first conductive pads coupled to respective keys, and a set of second conductive pads coupled to surfaces of the housing defining respective holes. The keys are configured such that the first conductive pad of a key is not in contact with a second conductive pad of a hole corresponding to the key when the key is in a first position (e.g., not actuated), and the first conductive pad of the key is in contact with the second conductive pad of the hole corresponding to the key when the key is in a second position (e.g., actuated).