U.S. patent application number 16/286249 was filed with the patent office on 2020-06-11 for keyboard key structure that generates an operation sound.
The applicant listed for this patent is Primax Electronics Ltd.. Invention is credited to Hsiang-Wen Cheng, Li-Jen Chien, Sheng-An Tsai.
Application Number | 20200185169 16/286249 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 70736397 |
Filed Date | 2020-06-11 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200185169 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tsai; Sheng-An ; et
al. |
June 11, 2020 |
KEYBOARD KEY STRUCTURE THAT GENERATES AN OPERATION SOUND
Abstract
A keyboard device includes a key structure, a membrane wiring
board and an elastic element. The elastic element is arranged
between the key structure and the membrane wiring board. The key
structure includes a sleeve, a plunger-type support shaft, a keycap
and a resilience element. The plunger-type support shaft is movable
upwardly or downwardly relative to the sleeve. When the keycap is
depressed in response to an external force, the resilience element
and the sleeve interfere with each other. Consequently, the
keyboard device provides the operating sound and the operating
feedback like a mechanical switch.
Inventors: |
Tsai; Sheng-An; (Taipei,
TW) ; Chien; Li-Jen; (Taipei, TW) ; Cheng;
Hsiang-Wen; (Taipei, TW) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Primax Electronics Ltd. |
Taipei |
|
TW |
|
|
Family ID: |
70736397 |
Appl. No.: |
16/286249 |
Filed: |
February 26, 2019 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01H 2235/00 20130101;
H01H 2215/006 20130101; H01H 13/705 20130101; H01H 2221/028
20130101; H01H 13/7065 20130101; H01H 2215/03 20130101; G06F 3/0202
20130101; H01H 13/85 20130101; H01H 13/84 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H01H 13/84 20060101
H01H013/84; H01H 13/7065 20060101 H01H013/7065 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 7, 2018 |
TW |
107144183 |
Claims
1. A key structure, comprising: a sleeve comprising a sliding
groove and a stopping structure, wherein the stopping structure is
disposed within the sliding groove; a plunger-type support shaft,
wherein a first end of the plunger-type support shaft is inserted
into the sliding groove, and the plunger-type support shaft is
movable upwardly or downwardly relative to the sliding groove; a
keycap connected with a second end of the plunger-type support
shaft; and a resilience element disposed on the plunger-type
support shaft and movable with the plunger-type support shaft,
wherein the resilience element comprises a first end part, a second
end part and a swinging part, and the swinging part is arranged
between the first end part and the second end part, wherein the
first end part and the second end part are fixed on the
plunger-type support shaft, wherein while the plunger-type support
shaft is moved upwardly or downwardly relative to the sliding
groove, the swinging part interferes with the stopping structure,
so that the swinging part, is swung, wherein while the plunger-type
support shaft is moved upwardly or downwardly relative to the
sliding groove, the resilience element and the stopping structure
interfere with each other, so that the key structure generates an
operating sound.
2. (canceled)
3. The key structure according to claim 1, wherein the plunger-type
support shaft further comprises a supporting part, wherein the
supporting part i-s protrudes externally from the plunger-type
support shaft, and the swinging part is supported on the supporting
part.
4. The key structure according to claim 1, wherein the resilience
element is a bent metallic wire that is arranged around the
plunger-type support shaft.
5. The key structure according to claim 1, wherein the sleeve
comprises plural inner walls, and the sliding groove is defined by
the plural inner walls collaboratively, wherein the stopping
structure is a raised structure that is protruded from one of the
plural inner walls toward a middle region of the sliding
groove.
6. The key structure according to claim 1, wherein the sleeve
comprises plural inner walls, and the sliding groove is defined by
plural inner walls collaboratively, wherein at least one rib is
formed on the plural inner walls and at least one sliding track
corresponding to the at least one rib is formed in the plunger-type
support shaft, or at least one sliding track is formed in the
plural inner walls and at least rib corresponding to the at least
one sliding track is formed on the plunger-type support shaft.
7. The key structure according to claim 1, wherein the keycap
comprises a first coupling structure, and the plunger-type support
shaft comprises a second coupling structure, wherein the first
coupling structure and the second coupling structure are coupled
with each other, so that the keycap is detachably connected with
the plunger-type support shaft.
8. The key structure according to claim 7, wherein one of the first
coupling structure and the second coupling structure is a
crisscross-shaped recess, and the other of the first coupling
structure and the second coupling structure is a crisscross-shaped
rod.
9. A keyboard device, comprising: a key structure comprising: a
sleeve comprising a sliding groove and a stopping structure,
wherein the stopping structure is disposed within the sliding
groove; a plunger-type support shaft, wherein a first end of the
plunger-type support shaft is inserted into the sliding groove, and
the plunger-type support shaft is movable upwardly or downwardly
relative to the sliding groove; a keycap connected with a second
end of the plunger-type support shaft; and a resilience element
disposed on the plunger-type support shaft and movable with the
plunger-type support shaft, wherein the resilience element
comprises a first end part, a second end part and a swinging part,
and the swinging part is arranged between the first end part and
the second end part, wherein the first end part and the second end
part are fixed on the plunger-type support shaft, wherein while the
plunger-type support shaft is moved upwardly or downwardly relative
to she sliding groove, the swinging part interferes with the
stopping structure, so that the swinging, part is swung, wherein
while the plunger-type support shaft is moved upwardly or
downwardly relative to the sliding groove, the resilience element
and the stopping structure interfere with each other, so that the
key structure generates an operating sound; a membrane wiring board
comprising a membrane switch; and an elastic element arranged
between the key structure and the membrane wiring board, wherein
when the elastic element is pressed by the plunger-type support
shaft, the membrane switch is triggered by the elastic element.
10. (canceled)
11. The keyboard device according to claim 9, wherein the
plunger-type support shaft further comprises a supporting part,
wherein the supporting part protrudes externally from the
plunger-type support shaft, and the swinging part is supported on
the supporting part.
12. The keyboard device according to claim 9, wherein the
resilience element is a bent metallic wire that is arranged around
the plunger-type support shaft.
13. The keyboard device according to claim 9, wherein the sleeve
comprises plural inner walls, and the sliding groove is defined by
plural inner walls collaboratively, wherein the stopping structure
is a raised structure that is protruded from one of the plural
inner walls toward a middle region of the sliding groove.
14. The keyboard device according to claim 9, wherein the sleeve
comprises plural inner walls, and the sliding groove is defined by
the plural inner walls collaboratively, wherein at least one rib is
formed on the plural inner walls and at least one sliding track
corresponding to the at least one rib is formed in the plunger-type
support shaft, or at least one sliding track is formed in the
plural inner walls and at least rib corresponding to the at least
one sliding track is formed on the plunger-type support shaft.
15. The keyboard device according to claim 9, wherein the keycap
comprises a first coupling structure, and the plunger-type support
shaft comprises a second coupling structure, wherein the first
coupling structure and the second coupling structure are coupled
with each other, so that the keycap is detachably connected with
the plunger-type support shaft.
16. The keyboard device according to claim 15, wherein one of the
first coupling structure and the second coupling structure is a
crisscross-shaped recess, and the other of the first coupling
structure and the second coupling structure is a crisscross-shaped
rod.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to an input device, and more
particularly to a keyboard device.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Generally, the widely-used peripheral input device of a
computer system includes for example a mouse device, a keyboard
device, a trackball device, or the like. Via the keyboard device,
characters or symbols can be inputted into the computer system
directly. As a consequence, most users pay much attention to the
keyboard devices.
[0003] Hereinafter, the structure and function of a conventional
keyboard device with a mechanical key structure will be described
with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a schematic
cross-sectional view illustrating a conventional keyboard device
with a mechanical key structure. FIG. 2 is a schematic
cross-sectional view illustrating the mechanical switch of the
conventional keyboard device of FIG. 1, wherein a keycap of the
mechanical key structure is depressed. For succinctness, only one
mechanical key structure and associated components are shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2. The keyboard device 2 comprises plural mechanical
key structures 22 and a circuit board 21. Each mechanical key
structure 22 comprises a keycap 221 and a mechanical switch 224.
The mechanical switch 224 is arranged between the keycap 221 and
the circuit board 21. The mechanical switch 224 comprises a casing
2241, a push element 2242, a linkage element 2243, a first spring
strip 2244, a second spring strip 2245 and an elastic element 2246.
The linkage element 2243, the elastic element 2246, at least a part
of the push element 2242, at least a part of the first spring strip
2244 and at least a part of the second spring strip 2245 are
accommodated within the casing 2241.
[0004] The casing 2241 comprises a pedestal 22411 and an upper
cover 22412. The pedestal 22411 is covered by the upper cover
22412. Moreover, the upper cover 22412 has an upper cover opening
22413. A first end of the push element 2242 is penetrated through
the upper cover opening 22413 and contacted with the keycap 221. A
second end of the push element 2242 is disposed within the casing
2241 and connected with the linkage element 2243. The linkage
element 2243 is located at a middle region of the pedestal 22411.
Moreover, the linkage element 2243 is movable upwardly or
downwardly relative to the pedestal 22411. The linkage element 2243
has a protrusion structure 22431. The protrusion structure 22431 is
extended from a sidewall of the linkage element 2243 and toward the
first spring strip 2244. The elastic element 2246 is located under
the linkage element 2243. A first end of the elastic element 2246
is connected with the linkage element 2243. A second end of the
elastic element 2246 is fixed on the pedestal 22411. Moreover, the
elastic element 2246 provides an elastic force to the linkage
element 2243.
[0005] The first spring strip 2244 is located near a sidewall of
the pedestal 22411. The first spring strip 2244 comprises a first
electric connection part 22441, an elastic part 22442 and a first
fixing part 22443. The first fixing part 22443 is fixed on the
pedestal 22411. Moreover, the first fixing part 22443 is arranged
between the first electric connection part 22441 and the elastic
part 22442. The elastic part 22442 is disposed within the casing
2241 and contacted with the protrusion structure 22431 of the
linkage element 2243. Moreover, the elastic part 22442 can be swung
relative to the first fixing part 22443. After the first electric
connection part 22441 is penetrated downwardly through the pedestal
22411, the first electric connection part 22441 is contacted and
electrically connected with the circuit board 21. The second spring
strip 2245 is arranged between the linkage element 2243 and the
first spring strip 2244. The second spring strip 2245 comprises a
second electric connection part 22451, a conduction part 22452 and
a second fixing part 22453. The second fixing part 22453 is fixed
on the pedestal 22411. Moreover, the second fixing part 22453 is
arranged between the second electric connection part 22451 and the
conduction part 22452. The conduction part 22452 is disposed within
the casing 2241. After the second electric connection part 22451 is
penetrated downwardly through the pedestal 22411, the second
electric connection part 22451 is contacted and electrically
connected with the circuit board 21.
[0006] While the keycap 221 is depressed, the keycap 221 is moved
downwardly to push the push element 2242. Since the linkage element
2243 is connected with the push element 2242, the linkage element
2243 is moved downwardly with the push element 2242. At the same
time, the elastic element 2246 is compressed to generate the
elastic force. As the linkage element 2243 is moved downwardly, the
protrusion structure 22431 of the linkage element 2243 is contacted
with the elastic part 22442 of the first spring strip 2244.
Moreover, the protrusion structure 22431 is moved downwardly
relative to the elastic part 22442 so as to push the elastic part
22442. Consequently, the elastic part 22442 is swung relative to
the first fixing part 22443. As the linkage element 2243 is
continuously moved downwardly, the swung elastic part 22442
correspondingly contacts and collides with the conduction part
22452 of the second spring strip 2245. Meanwhile, as shown in FIG.
2, the first spring strip 2244 and the second spring strip 2245 are
in contact with each other. Consequently, the circuit board 21
generates a corresponding key signal.
[0007] When the elastic part 22442 of the first spring strip 2244
collides with the conduction part 22452 of the second spring strip
2245, a click sound is generated. Due to the click sound, the user
can feel the feedback of depressing the keycap 221. Moreover, when
the keycap 221 is no longer depressed, the linkage element 2243 and
the push element 2242 are moved upwardly in response to the elastic
force of the elastic element 2246. Consequently, the keycap 221 is
returned to its original position as shown in FIG. 1. The
operations of the mechanical switch 224 are well known to those
skilled in the art, and are not redundantly described herein. The
type of the mechanical switch 224 is not restricted to that of
FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0008] However, the mechanical switch still has some drawbacks. For
example, since the structure of the mechanical switch is
complicated, the fabricating cost of the mechanical switch is high.
Moreover, it is difficult to reduce the thickness of the keyboard
device with the mechanical switch. That is, the keyboard device
with the mechanical switch cannot meet the requirements of light
weightiness, slimness and small size. For solving these drawbacks,
a keyboard device with a membrane switch has been introduced into
the market.
[0009] Please refer to FIGS. 3 and 4. FIG. 3 is a schematic side
view illustrating a conventional keyboard device with a membrane
switch. FIG. 4 is a schematic exploded view illustrating a portion
of a membrane wiring board of the conventional keyboard device of
FIG. 3. The conventional keyboard device 1 comprises a base plate
13, a membrane wiring board 14 and plural key structures 12. Each
of the plural key structures 12 comprises a keycap 121, a
scissors-type connecting element 122 and an elastic element 123.
The scissors-type connecting element 122 is connected between the
keycap 121 and the base plate 13.
[0010] Moreover, the scissors-type connecting element 122 comprises
a first frame 1221 and a second frame 1222. The second frame 1222
is pivotally coupled to the first frame 1221. Consequently, the
first frame 1221 and the second frame 1222 can be swung relative to
each other. The elastic element 123 is arranged between the keycap
121 and the membrane wiring board 14. Moreover, the elastic element
123 comprises a contacting part 1231.
[0011] The membrane wiring board 14 comprises an upper film layer
142, a lower film layer 141 and an intermediate film layer 143. The
intermediate film layer 143 is arranged between the upper film
layer 142 and the lower film layer 141. A first circuit pattern
1421 is formed on a bottom surface of the upper film layer 142. The
first circuit pattern 1421 comprises plural upper contacts 14211
corresponding to the plural key structures 12. A second circuit
pattern 1411 is formed on a top surface of the lower film layer
141. The second circuit pattern 1411 comprises plural lower
contacts 14111 corresponding to the plural upper contacts 14211. In
addition, the intermediate film layer 143 comprises plural
perforations 1431 corresponding to the plural upper contacts 14211
and the plural lower contacts 14111. Each of the upper contacts
14211 and the corresponding lower contact 14111 are collectively
defined as a membrane switch 144.
[0012] While the keycap 121 of any key structure 12 is depressed
and moved downwardly relative to the base plate 13, the first frame
1221 and the second frame 1222 of the scissors-type connecting
element 122 are switched from an open-scissors state to a stacked
state. Moreover, as the keycap 121 is moved downwardly to compress
the elastic element 123, the corresponding upper contact 14211 is
contacted with and triggered by the contacting part 1231 of the
elastic element 123. Consequently, the corresponding upper contact
14211 is penetrated through the corresponding perforation 1431 and
contacted with the corresponding lower contact 14111. Under this
circumstance, the corresponding membrane switch 144 is electrically
conducted. When the keycap 121 of the key structure 12 is no longer
depressed, the keycap 121 is moved upwardly relative to the base
plate 13 in response to an elastic force of the elastic element
123. Meanwhile, the first frame 1221 and the second frame 1222 are
switched from the stacked state to the open-scissors state again,
and the keycap 121 is returned to its original position.
[0013] As mentioned above, the keyboard device with the membrane
switch is slim, and the fabricating cost is reduced. However,
unlike the mechanical switch, the depressing action on the membrane
switch cannot generate the click sound. That is, the user cannot
feel the feedback of depressing the keycap. Consequently, the
conventional keyboard device needs to be further improved.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] An object of the present invention a novel key structure
with a plunger-type support shaft and a sleeve. The plunger-type
support shaft is movable upwardly or downwardly relative to the
sleeve. A resilience element is disposed on the plunger-type
support shaft. The resilience element and the sleeve may interfere
with each other. Consequently, the keyboard device provides an
operating sound and an operating feedback like a mechanical
switch.
[0015] Another object of the present invention provides a keyboard
device with the novel key structure and a membrane switch.
[0016] In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a key structure. The key structure includes a sleeve, a
plunger-type support shaft, a keycap and a resilience element. The
sleeve includes a sliding groove and a stopping structure. The
stopping structure is disposed within the sliding groove. A first
end of the plunger-type support shaft is inserted into the sliding
groove. The plunger-type support shaft is movable upwardly or
downwardly relative to the sliding groove. The keycap is connected
with a second end of the plunger-type support shaft. The resilience
element is disposed on the plunger-type support shaft and movable
with the plunger-type support shaft. While the plunger-type support
shaft is moved upwardly or downwardly relative to the sliding
groove, the resilience element and the stopping structure interfere
with each other, so that the key structure generates an operating
sound.
[0017] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a keyboard device. The keyboard device includes a
key structure, a membrane wiring board and an elastic element. The
key structure includes a sleeve, a plunger-type support shaft, a
keycap and a resilience element. The sleeve includes a sliding
groove and a stopping structure. The stopping structure is disposed
within the sliding groove. A first end of the plunger-type support
shaft is inserted into the sliding groove. The plunger-type support
shaft is movable upwardly or downwardly relative to the sliding
groove. The keycap is connected with a second end of the
plunger-type support shaft. The resilience element is disposed on
the plunger-type support shaft and movable with the plunger-type
support shaft. While the plunger-type support shaft is moved
upwardly or downwardly relative to the sliding groove, the
resilience element and the stopping structure interfere with each
other, so that the key structure generates an operating sound. The
membrane wiring board includes a membrane switch. The elastic
element is arranged between the key structure and the membrane
wiring board. When the elastic element is pressed by the
plunger-type support shaft, the membrane switch is triggered by the
elastic element.
[0018] The above objects and advantages of the present invention
will become more readily apparent to those ordinarily skilled in
the art after reviewing the following detailed description and
accompanying drawings, in which:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a
conventional keyboard device with a mechanical key structure;
[0020] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the
mechanical switch of the conventional keyboard device of FIG. 1,
wherein a keycap of the mechanical key structure is depressed;
[0021] FIG. 3 is a schematic side view illustrating a conventional
keyboard device with a membrane switch;
[0022] FIG. 4 is a schematic exploded view illustrating a portion
of a membrane wiring board of the conventional keyboard device of
FIG. 3;
[0023] FIG. 5 is a schematic top view illustrating a keyboard
device according to a first embodiment of the present
invention;
[0024] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a
portion of the keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5;
[0025] FIG. 7A is a schematic exploded view illustrating a portion
of the keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5 and taken along a
viewpoint;
[0026] FIG. 7B is a schematic exploded view illustrating a portion
of the keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5 and taken along another
viewpoint;
[0027] FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the
membrane wiring board of the keyboard device as shown in FIG.
5;
[0028] FIG. 9 is a schematic exploded view illustrating the key
structure of the keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5 and taken along
a viewpoint;
[0029] FIG. 10 is a schematic exploded view illustrating the key
structure of the keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5 and taken along
another viewpoint;
[0030] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a
sleeve of the key structure as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10;
[0031] FIG. 12A is a schematic perspective view illustrating the
sleeve and the plunger-type support shaft of the key structure of
the keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5, in which the key structure
is not depressed;
[0032] FIG. 12B is a schematic cutaway view illustrating the
resilience element and the sleeve of the key structure of the
keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5, in which the key structure is
not depressed;
[0033] FIG. 13A is a schematic perspective view illustrating the
sleeve and the plunger-type support shaft of the key structure of
the keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5 while the key structure is
depressed;
[0034] FIG. 13B is a schematic cutaway view illustrating the
resilience element and the sleeve of the key structure of the
keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5 while the key structure is
depressed;
[0035] FIG. 14A is a schematic perspective view illustrating the
sleeve and the plunger-type support shaft of the key structure of
the keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5 when the key structure is
completely depressed; and
[0036] FIG. 14B is a schematic cutaway view illustrating the
resilience element and the sleeve of the key structure of the
keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5 when the key structure is
completely depressed.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0037] Please refer to FIGS. 5, 6, 7A and 7B. FIG. 5 is a schematic
top view illustrating a keyboard device according to a first
embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic
perspective view illustrating a portion of the keyboard device as
shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 7A is a schematic exploded view illustrating
a portion of the keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5 and taken along
a viewpoint. FIG. 7B is a schematic exploded view illustrating a
portion of the keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5 and taken along
another viewpoint. For succinctness, only one key structure is
shown in FIGS. 6, 7A and 7B. The keyboard device 3 comprises plural
key structures 30, a base plate (not shown), a membrane wiring
board 32 and an elastic element 31. The membrane wiring board 32 is
disposed on the base plate. The elastic element 31 is arranged
between the membrane wiring board 32 and the key structures 30.
These key structures 30 are classified into some types, e.g.,
ordinary keys, numeric keys and function keys. When one of the key
structures 30 is depressed by the user's finger, a corresponding
key signal is generated to the computer (not shown), and thus the
computer executes a function corresponding to the depressed key
structure. For example, when an ordinary key is depressed, a
corresponding English letter or symbol is inputted into the
computer. When a numeric key is depressed, a corresponding number
is inputted into the computer. In addition, the function keys
(F1.about.F12) can be programmed to provide various quick access
functions.
[0038] The membrane wiring board 32 further comprises plural film
layers. FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the
membrane wiring board of the keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5.
The plural film layers of the membrane wiring board 32 are arranged
in a stack form. In this embodiment, the membrane wiring board 32
comprises an upper film layer 322 and a lower film layer 323. A
first circuit pattern 3221 is formed on a bottom surface of the
upper film layer 322. The first circuit pattern 3221 comprises
plural upper contacts 3222 corresponding to the plural key
structures 30. A second circuit pattern 3231 is formed on a top
surface of the lower film layer 323. The second circuit pattern
3231 comprises plural lower contacts 3232 corresponding to the
plural upper contacts 3222. Each of the upper contacts 3222 and the
corresponding lower contact 3232 are separated from each other by a
spacing interval. Moreover, each of the upper contacts 3222 and the
corresponding lower contact 3232 are collectively defined as a
membrane switch 321. Moreover, for maintaining the spacing interval
between each upper contact 3222 and the corresponding lower contact
3232, the membrane wiring board 32 further comprises an
intermediate film layer 324. The intermediate film layer 324 is
arranged between the upper film layer 322 and the lower film layer
323. In addition, the intermediate film layer 324 comprises plural
perforations 3241 corresponding to the plural upper contacts 3222
and the plural lower contacts 3232. Preferably but not exclusively,
at least one of the upper film layer 322, the lower film layer 323
and the intermediate film layer 324 is made of polycarbonate (PC),
polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA),
polyurethane (PU) or polyimide (PI).
[0039] Please refer to FIGS. 9, 10 and 11. FIG. 9 is a schematic
exploded view illustrating the key structure of the keyboard device
as shown in FIG. 5 and taken along a viewpoint. FIG. 10 is a
schematic exploded view illustrating the key structure of the
keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5 and taken along another
viewpoint. FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a
sleeve of the key structure as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10.
[0040] Each of the key structures 30 comprises a sleeve 301, a
plunger-type support shaft 302, a keycap 303 and a resilience
element 304. The sleeve 301 comprises a sliding groove 3011 and a
stopping structure 3012. The stopping structure 3012 is disposed
within the sliding groove 3011. The plunger-type support shaft 302
is movable upwardly or downwardly relative to the sliding groove
3011. A first end of the plunger-type support shaft 302 is inserted
into the sliding groove 3011. A second end of the plunger-type
support shaft 302 is connected with the keycap 303. The resilience
element 304 is disposed on the plunger-type support shaft 302.
Moreover, the resilience element 304 is movable with the
plunger-type support shaft 302.
[0041] In this embodiment, the sliding groove 3011 of the sleeve
301 is defined by plural inner walls 3013 of the sleeve 301
collaboratively. The stopping structure 3012 is a raised structure
that is protruded from one of the inner walls 3013 toward the
middle region of the sliding groove 3011. Moreover, plural ribs
3014 are disposed on the inner walls 3013 of the sleeve 301 along
the vertical direction. Moreover, plural sliding tracks 3021 are
formed in an outer surface of the plunger-type support shaft 302
corresponding to the ribs 3014. As the sleeve 301 and the
plunger-type support shaft 302 are guided by the ribs 3014 and the
sliding tracks 3021, the sleeve 301 and the plunger-type support
shaft 302 are movable relative to each other. It is noted that
numerous modifications and alterations may be made while retaining
the teachings of the invention. For example, in another embodiment,
plural sliding tracks are formed in the inner walls 3013 of the
sleeve 301 along the vertical direction, and plural ribs are formed
on the outer surface of the plunger-type support shaft 302
corresponding to the sliding tracks.
[0042] In an embodiment, the keycap 303 comprises a first coupling
structure 3031. The first coupling structure 3031 is disposed on a
bottom surface of the keycap 303. The plunger-type support shaft
302 further comprises a second coupling structure 3022
corresponding to the first coupling structure 3031. The first
coupling structure 3031 of the keycap 303 and the second coupling
structure 3022 of the plunger-type support shaft 302 are coupled
with each other. Consequently, the keycap 303 is detachably
connected with the plunger-type support shaft 302. In such way, the
keycap may be replaced with another keycap with a different color,
shape or material. Preferably but not exclusively, the first
coupling structure 3031 is a crisscross-shaped recess, and the
second coupling structure 3022 is a crisscross-shaped rod. It is
noted that numerous modifications and alterations may be made while
retaining the teachings of the invention. For example, in another
embodiment, the first coupling structure 3031 is a
crisscross-shaped rod, and the second coupling structure 3022 is a
crisscross-shaped recess.
[0043] In this embodiment, the resilience element 304 is a bent
metallic wire, so that the resilience element 304 has a resilience
property. Moreover, the resilience element 304 is arranged around
the plunger-type support shaft 302. The resilience element 304
comprises a first end part 3041, a second end part 3042 and a
swinging part 3043. The swinging part 3043 is arranged between the
first end part 3041 and the second end part 3042. As shown in FIG.
9, the first end part 3041 and the second end part 3042 are fixed
on the plunger-type support shaft 302. Consequently, as shown in
FIG. 10, the swinging part 3043 can be twisted and swung in a first
direction D1 or a second direction D2 by using the first end part
3041 and the second end part 3042 as fulcrums. In addition, the
plunger-type support shaft 302 further comprises a supporting part
3023. The supporting part 3023 is protruded externally from the
supporting part 3023. The swinging part 3043 of the resilience
element 304 is supported on the supporting part 3023.
[0044] The operations of the keyboard device and the key structure
of the present invention will be illustrated with reference to
FIGS. 12A and 12B. FIG. 12A is a schematic perspective view
illustrating the sleeve and the plunger-type support shaft of the
key structure of the keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5, in which
the key structure is not depressed. FIG. 12B is a schematic cutaway
view illustrating the resilience element and the sleeve of the key
structure of the keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5, in which the
key structure is not depressed. When the keycap 303 of the key
structure 30 is not depressed, the plunger-type support shaft 302
of the key structure 30 is supported by the elastic element 31
under the key structure 30. Meanwhile, the relationship between the
sleeve 301 and the plunger-type support shaft 302 of the key
structure 30 is shown in FIG. 12A, and the relationship between the
sleeve 301 and the resilience element 304 is shown in FIG. 12B.
[0045] Please refer to FIGS. 7A, 7B, 13A and 13B. FIG. 13A is a
schematic perspective view illustrating the sleeve and the
plunger-type support shaft of the key structure of the keyboard
device as shown in FIG. 5 while the key structure is depressed.
FIG. 13B is a schematic cutaway view illustrating the resilience
element and the sleeve of the key structure of the keyboard device
as shown in FIG. 5 while the key structure is depressed. As
mentioned above, the plunger-type support shaft 302 is connected
with the keycap 303. Consequently, while the keycap 303 of the key
structure 30 is depressed and moved downwardly relative to the
membrane wiring board 32, the plunger-type support shaft 302 is
moved downwardly relative to the sliding groove 3011 of the sleeve
301 to press the underlying elastic element 31. Meanwhile, the
relationship between the sleeve 301 and the plunger-type support
shaft 302 of the key structure 30 is shown in FIG. 13A. As the
plunger-type support shaft 302 is moved downwardly, the resilience
element 304 on the plunger-type support shaft 302 is
correspondingly moved downwardly. Consequently, as shown in FIG.
13B, the swinging part 3043 of the resilience element 304 is
correspondingly contacted with the stopping structure 3012 of the
sleeve 301.
[0046] Please refer to FIGS. 7A, 7B, 8, 14A and 14B. FIG. 14A is a
schematic perspective view illustrating the sleeve and the
plunger-type support shaft of the key structure of the keyboard
device as shown in FIG. 5 when the key structure is completely
depressed. FIG. 14B is a schematic cutaway view illustrating the
resilience element and the sleeve of the key structure of the
keyboard device as shown in FIG. 5 when the key structure is
completely depressed. When the keycap 303 of the key structure 30
is completely depressed, the keycap 303 moved downwardly relative
to the membrane wiring board 32 and moved to the lowest position.
Meanwhile, the relationship between the sleeve 301 and the
plunger-type support shaft 302 of the key structure 30 is shown in
FIG. 14A. Moreover, as the elastic element 31 is pressed by the
plunger-type support shaft 302, the upper contact 3222 of the
membrane wiring board 32 is pushed by the elastic element 31. After
the upper contact 3222 is penetrated through the perforation 3241,
the upper contact 3222 is contacted with the lower contact 3232.
Consequently, the corresponding membrane switch 321 is electrically
conducted, and the keyboard device 3 issues a corresponding key
signal.
[0047] When the keycap 303 of the key structure 30 is completely
depressed and moved to the lowest position, the swinging part 3043
of the resilience element 304 and the stopping structure 3012 of
the sleeve 301 interfere with each other. Due to the interference,
the swinging part 3043 of the resilience element 304 is twisted and
swung in the first direction D1 (see FIG. 14B). As the swinging
part 3043 is twisted and swung in the first direction D1, the outer
surface of the plunger-type support shaft 302 is clicked by the
swinging part 3043, or the swinging part 3043 is rubbed against the
inner walls of the sleeve 301. Consequently, the operating sound
and the operating feedback are generated. When the keycap 303 of
the key structure 30 is no longer depressed, the plunger-type
support shaft 302 connected with the keycap 303 is moved upwardly
relative to the sliding groove 3011 of the sleeve 301 in response
to the elastic force of the elastic element 31. At the same time,
the swinging part 3043 of the resilience element 304 and the
stopping structure 3012 of the sleeve 301 do not interfere with
each other. Consequently, the swinging part 3043 is restored and
swung in the second direction D2. Under this circumstance, the
supporting part 3023 of the plunger-type support shaft 302 is
clicked by the swinging part 3043, or the swinging part 3043 is
rubbed against the inner walls of the sleeve 301. Consequently, the
operating sound and the operating feedback are generated again.
[0048] From the above descriptions, the present invention provides
a keyboard device with a membrane switch. The keyboard device is
slim has reduced fabricating cost. The resilience element is
disposed on the plunger-type support shaft of the key structure.
The resilience element and the sleeve may interfere with each
other. Consequently, the keyboard device provides the operating
sound and the operating feedback like a mechanical switch. In other
words, the keyboard device of the present invention is industrially
valuable. The keyboard device is suitably applied to an electronic
sports product, e.g., a keyboard device for the electronic sports
game.
[0049] While the invention has been described in terms of what is
presently considered to be the most practical and preferred
embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention needs not be
limited to the disclosed embodiments. On the contrary, it is
intended to cover various modifications and similar arrangements
included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims which
are to be accorded with the broadest interpretation so as to
encompass all modifications and similar structures.
* * * * *