CN100431081C - Keyboard improvements - Google Patents

Abstract

A keypad has both hill keys (12) that provide a corresponding output when individually pressed, and valley keys (14) are labeled to correspond with an output that results at least from the simultaneous or near-simultaneous manipulation of a predetermined set of two or more hill keys (12) adjacent the valley key (14). Pairs of hill keys (12) are joined to form elongated dual keys (16) that provide a nominal effective key width (H) substantially equal to a nominal effective key width (V) of the valley keys.

Description

Keypad and use its electronic installation

Technical field

Relate generally to keyboard of the present invention and keypad (keypad) more specifically relate to keyboard and keypad with projection and depression key area.

Background technology

Along with the portable electric appts miniaturization more that becomes, the key factor that ergonomics quality of its input equipment (such as keypad) and size become its design.Set up international standard for the minimum dimension between the adjacent key switch that for example adapts to the typical human finger tip." button " represents a unit in the cell array from the teeth outwards, results from the corresponding identification output in position of this unit when knocking.Term " key area " comprises, for example, and by the regional area of the keypad that barrier film or key combination form is set above the contact-making switch array." keypad " is button or key area array, and except that other, comprises traditional keypad (such as being seen on most of phones, calculator etc.), and keyboard.

Some keyboard has with respect to contiguous button or key area, with respect to the nominal plane of keyboard or the button or the key area of surface local projection or rising.These buttons or key area are called " Qiu Jian (hill key) ", and are called " Gu Jian (valleykey) " with respect to the key area of contiguous mound key local dent.The paddy key range can be depression or projection, but in both cases, exposed surface all wants the last exposed surface of neighbour nearly mound key obviously lower on it.In some cases, adjacent mound key algorithm is relevant in the Gu Jianyu device." algorithm relevant " expression to the triggering on the paddy key range or push be subjected to often one or more adjacent mound bonded state have a mind to influence.In some cases, this expression paddy key range has and the corresponding sign of output, in the time of the adjacent operation of this output and one group of two or more key area or the action algorithm of approximate while relevant.

For example, my early stage a few thing is at IACK (independence and combination button) keypad, and wherein output key is movable and determine from the combined moving of adjacent switch from independent switch.In the document, Qiu Jian is called " independent button " or " independent key area " sometimes, and the paddy key is called " combination button " or " combination button zone ".In several my early stage IACK embodiment, because paddy key itself does not have following switch, in triggering the output relevant with each the paddy key that needs the key combination of adjacent mound to operate, Gu Jian is associated with adjacent mound key function.The further background information of She Zhiing can find in my unexamined U.S. Patent Application Serial Number 09/862,948 at this point, and this application was submitted to May 22 calendar year 2001, and its full content is herein incorporated by reference, as illustrating fully.

" algorithm is relevant " of using also comprises other associations herein, all has related switch and setting that the activity of paddy key output by the movable of paddy key switch or the combination of adjacent mound key switch produces such as its two-story valley and Qiu Jian, and the activity of its two-story valley key switch and adjacent mound key switch all only causes the output relevant with the paddy key switch (if determine the contiguous paddy key of mound key, in some sense, do not consider the input of mound key) setting.Further background information for a kind of setting after this can be seen in my unexamined U.S. Patent Application Serial Number 60/444,227, and this application was submitted on February 3rd, 2003, and its full content is herein incorporated by reference, as illustrating fully.

The QWERTY button is designed to utilize the recognised standard across ten letters of its width.This standard is used to limit the width of multiple product.The width (serviceability of holding device simultaneously) that minimizes these ten buttons is the critical aspects that minimizes hand-held product.The early stage trial of compression IACK keypad width comprises keypad rotation 45 degree.The result has increased the quantity that is fitted in the button in the delegation with 1.4 coefficient.Although increased the width density of button really, this has caused mound and Gu Jian alternately (for example, " Q " on the mound, " W " in paddy, " E " is first-class on the mound).Produce very strong difference between the easy-to-use degree of this character that also importance is equal from the teeth outwards.

Expectation has the IACK keypad of mound and Gu Jian and the ease of use of other keypad has further improvement.

Summary of the invention

Several aspect of the present invention is general to be characterised in that a kind of keypad, it has with respect to contiguous button, and with respect to the button of the nominal plane local crowning of keyboard, these buttons are called Qiu Jian, and be called Gu Jian with respect to the button of contiguous mound key local dent, described keypad defined expose Gu Jianhe be elevated to the above exposure mound key of paddy key both.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the name of Qiu Jian effectively equals the name of Gu Jian effectively by width of key substantially by width of key." effectively by width of key " unexpectedly do not run into the distance of contiguous button for can be used for key tap.For measure given button effectively by width of key, from given button right side (or top) not the nearest edge of relative nearest button to the nearest edge metering of nearest uncorrelated button in its left side (or below)." name " expression is with respect to keypad integral body, and it is typical measuring for such button.

In multiple structure, each is associated a plurality of at least mounds key with corresponding mound key, makes adjacent mound key to forming two keys of elongation with join domain.

According to a further aspect in the invention, each is associated a plurality of at least mounds key with corresponding mound key function, and the adjacent mound key of keypad is to forming two keys of elongation with join domain.Two mound keys of the every centering of " function is associated " expression separately or function together provide common signal for processor, such as by movable single switch.

Each embodiment of any one aspect of the present invention is characterised in that the various combinations of following characteristic.

In certain embodiments, join domain is the form of the local bridge that raises, thereby forms the bridge of waist such as narrowing down between the key of adjacent mound.Bridge is preferably downward-sloping towards its mid point, thereby forms saddle between adjacent mound key.

Preferably, a plurality of pairs of keys have left side and right side with different identification marks at least.

In some structure, the switch of two key covering boards, and with usually separate and when pushing its relevant mound key, be associated with conduction movement device that switch electrically contacts from switch is vertical.Preferably, each two key is associated with the movement device of an only elongation, and it has the lower surface along its curved in length in some cases.

In some was provided with, each two key was associated with the tactile feedback elements of an only elongation.

In some cases, at least a plurality of pairs of keys each be associated with a pair of movement device, this is arranged in the movement device each under of a pair of mound key of two keys.For example, two right movement devices of movement device can be arranged as the single switch of combined circuit plate.Perhaps, two right movement devices of movement device can be arranged as the different switches of combined circuit plate.

In some cases, at least a plurality of pairs of keys each be associated with a pair of tactile feedback elements, this is arranged in the feedback element each under of a pair of mound key of two keys.

The paddy key can be arranged by row, and every row comprise two keys.

In certain embodiments, each two key is configured to can be used as the rigidity press-key structure that the unit moves with respect to following circuit board.The rigidity press-key structure of each two key also can stride across at least one adjacent paddy key, and the formation rigidity press-key structure of several pairs of keys at least also strides across two adjacent paddy keys, and each is in any side of two keys.

In some cases, the row of the row at two key place and paddy key is alternately arranged.

In certain embodiments, adjacent paddy key is to linking to each other on the structure, make towards the paddy key that following circuit board moves paddy key centering will make this to the paddy key in another paddy key move away from circuit board.For example, every pair of paddy key comprises the bar (on the meaning of function, if not literal meaning) that strides across a pair of paddy key and can center on fulcrum rotation between the paddy key that is striden across.In some cases, bar is at fulcrum place contact circuit plate, perhaps the round button on the circuit board.Preferably, the round button under the fulcrum is configured to provide the higher feedback force of round button than relevant with the mound key.

In certain embodiments, but this school keyboard also comprises pivotable member, and two mound keys that each strides across different two keys make that when one of described mound key moved down, another of described mound key moved up.Preferably, but pivotable member also strides across Gu Jian.

In certain embodiments, Gu Jian has the exposed surface of protrusion.

Gu Jian preferably includes the local zone that raises, and it is relative and the mound key is recessed.

The center of adjacent valleys key is preferably to separate less than about 6 mm distance, more preferably to separate less than about 5.4 mm distance.

In at least one preferably was provided with, each was associated a plurality of mounds key with at least six paddy keys.

In being provided with of a kind of special purpose, delegation's button tag arrangement read into, from left to right, Q-W-E-R-T-Y.

In certain embodiments, when pushing separately, Qiu Jian provides corresponding output, and its two-story valley key label be corresponding at least from predetermined group of two or more mound keys of contiguous paddy key the time or the output of the approximate generation of operation simultaneously.

In some cases, only the mound key provides electroresponse when being actuated, and the output corresponding with the mark of paddy key only gets from the combination from the electroresponse of actuating of adjacent mound key.

In some preferred keypad, the contiguous mound key algorithm of Gu Jianyu is correlated with.For example, both determine from the single switch activity with from the movable combination of adjacent switch in button output.

According to a further aspect in the invention, a kind of electronic installation comprises above-mentioned keypad, wherein when pushing separately, Qiu Jian provides corresponding output, and wherein no matter is close to any while or the approximate operation simultaneously of any one mound key of paddy key, and Gu Jian provides output separately.

Another aspect of the present invention is more wide in range to be characterised in that a kind of keypad, needn't be the IACK type, array with the button (or key area of flexible surface) that can move towards following circuit board, wherein adjacent button or key area are to linking to each other on the structure by the structure of contact circuit plate between button that connects or key area, thereby limit fulcrum, make the button of connection or a button or a key area in the key area leave circuit board towards this another connection of centering of mobile lifting of circuit board.

In certain embodiments, at least a plurality of buttons or key area effectively are connected to two different buttons or key area in this way, make towards printed circuit board (PCB) moved in these dual link buttons or the key area lifting connected two buttons like this or key area.Preferably, the button of connection or key area are provided with in push-button array located adjacent one anotherly.Eliminating on the meaning of actuating that adjacent key do not expect, button that button that lifting is pushed or key area are contiguous or key area can help to avoid the interference between the adjacent key and close especially button in the keypad.

The ease for use that various aspects of the present invention can provide keypad to improve, particularly for IACK type device, such as by provide between mound and the paddy key balance more effectively by width of key.Several characteristic disclosed herein is considered to provide useful especially elongation push-button array, is provided with such as the standard QWERTY that comprises button.

The details of one or more embodiment of the present invention is shown in accompanying drawing and the following introduction.Other features, objects and advantages of the present invention will require and distincter by introduction and accompanying drawing and accessory rights.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is the plane graph of prior art IACK keypad;

Fig. 2 A and 2B are the sectional view of the keypad of Fig. 1, show the operation finger and directly place Qiu Jian and Gu Jian top respectively;

Fig. 3 shows the embodiment of the IACK keypad of improvement, has the zone of two keys;

Fig. 4 A and 4B are the sectional view of the keypad of Fig. 3, show the operation finger and directly place two keys and Gu Jian top respectively;

Fig. 5 shows the keypad of Fig. 3, with QWERTY key arrangement mark;

Fig. 6 is along the sectional view of the line 6-6 intercepting of Fig. 5, has passed the embodiment with single wide actuator and two wide switches;

Fig. 7 is along the sectional view of the line 7-7 intercepting of Fig. 5, has passed the embodiment with two wide actuators and switch;

Fig. 8 is along the sectional view of the line 8-8 intercepting of Fig. 5, has passed the embodiment with single wide actuator and single wide switch;

Fig. 9 and 10 is respectively along the sectional view of the line 9-9 of Fig. 5 and 10-10 intercepting;

Figure 11 shows the printed circuit board switch setting of the keypad that is used for Fig. 5;

Figure 12 shows the keypad of Fig. 3, and some two keys are provided with alternately sign and function;

Figure 12 a is the sectional view along the line 12a-12a intercepting of Figure 12;

Figure 13 to 15 is respectively line 13-13, the 14-14 along Figure 12, the sectional view of 15-15 intercepting;

Figure 16 shows the array of the round button (dome) of the keypad that is used for Fig. 5;

Figure 17 shows the two key settings of another keypad;

Figure 18 a and 18b are the sectional view along the line 18-18 intercepting of Figure 17, are respectively that press-key structure is in the free time and depresses button " P ";

Figure 19 a and 19b are the sectional view along the line 19-19 intercepting of Figure 17, are respectively that press-key structure is in idle and the next paddy key of pressure;

Figure 20 a to 20c is the sectional view along the line 20-20 intercepting of Figure 17, is respectively that press-key structure is in the free time, presses next paddy key and presses next mound key;

The axle pivot that Figure 21 a to 21c shows two mound keys crossing over any side of paddy key links, and under Gu Jian, the rigid insulation bearing is arranged between keymat and the circuit board.

Identical Reference numeral is represented components identical in each accompanying drawing.

Embodiment

Fig. 1 shows prior art IACK, and each has and typically become the corresponding diameter in contact zone of finger overlapping circle 10.Independent key area 12 raises a little, is called " mound " key thus.Avale a little on (with respect to the mound key) and be called " Gu Jian " in combination button zone 14.Size by " H " expression shows effective mound width of key 20, and reflected knock in the middle of mound key 12 and do not contact total distance that the finger of adjacent independent button can stride across.About 75% the name that as directed general proportions, the prior art keypad of Fig. 1 have a typical case finger contact zone diameter is mound width of key 20 effectively.Typically designing provides 8MN-2M-2N+1 button in keyboard, M is wide for the finger contact zone, and N is finger contact zone height.Shown in the keyboard (M=4 and N=2), 53 movable key areas of independence are arranged, 32 independences (mound) key 12 and 21 combinations (paddy) key 14.Quantity across the combination button zone 14 of installing width in the delegation is provided by 2M-1.Suppose that actuating of any given paddy key can be that the function of actuating of adjacent mound key is (as my unexamined application 09/862 individually, described in 948), effectively Macintosh width 22 is across the distance between the key area of any side of this paddy key and not related with this paddy key rising.In the accompanying drawing, nominal combination button width 22 is expressed as " V " and is approximately 125% of finger contact zone 10 diameters.Distance between the adjacent combination button center, being shown in dotted line of the contact grid below expression is approximately the adult and points about 50% of width of contact region.

Fig. 2 A is the sectional view of the keypad of Fig. 1, intercepts and show the one-tenth finger 10 that is centrally located on the selected independent button 12 along the Qiu Jian of delegation 12.Effectively mound width of key 20 is approximately 75% of finger width of contact region.As a reference, typically the adult points about 15 to 20 mm wides.

Similarly, Fig. 2 B shows identical sectional view, the top that is centered close to combination button zone 14 (that is, the center is seen in this figure between the adjacent independent key area, and outside its plane) of finger 10.As seen, effective paddy width of key 22 is obviously greater than finger width.In some sense, the prior art IACK keypad of Fig. 1 is " imbalance ", it is obviously necessary effectively by width of key greater than comfortable operation that combination button provides, and the mound key is slightly less than the requirement that the finger that can be desirably intended size provides comfortable operation.

Fig. 3 shows the keypad in the zone with two keys 16.In this example, each two key 16 comprises two adjacent mound keys 12 and cross structure 37.From user's viewpoint, operate specific combination button 14 by two keys 16 of pushing the combination button above and below, other combination button 14 is operated by pushing around four of this combination button adjacent two keys 16.The interval of following independent button grid is reduced to 1/3rd of the finger width of being grown up approximately, and is shown in dotted line.Similarly, the distance between the adjacent combination button 14 is reduced to and points 1/3rd of width of contact region approximately, advantageously will be increased to 2.5M from 2M-1 across the quantity of the combination button 14 that installs width thus.The number of keys that is arranged in the keyboard that M takes advantage of N finger contact zone is 7MN+2N-M-1, lacks 10% button approximately than the IACK keypad of Fig. 1.(in the keyboard of Fig. 3, M=4 and N=2 draw 47 independently buttons of activity, 20 two keys 16 and 27 combination buttons 14.) Fig. 4 A and 4B show the sectional view of the keyboard of Fig. 3, wherein show respectively be centered close on the selected separate double key range 37 be centered close to the combination button zone on become finger 10.The effective width that is appreciated that Gu Jian and two keys by these accompanying drawings is approximate identical, and the both equals finger width.

The design of comparison diagram 1 and Fig. 3, the less relatively whole button density of Fig. 3 can be offset by tangible improvement.For example, the design of Fig. 3 is " balance " in the following areas, promptly effectively all is approximately equal to the width of finger contact zone by the value of width of key H (20) and V (22).Thus, Qiu Jian and Gu Jian are easy to use comparably, increase the whole ease for use of device thus.In addition, by reduce Gu Jian effectively by width of key to being approximately a finger width, can increase the density of easy-to-use (finger size) button on the keyboard width.In design with relative broad, be provided with such as common QWERTY button, be combined in pocket-sized and less product and when not sacrificing by width of key, this point can particular importance.Utilize about 5.4 millimeters centre distance (be approximated to finger width about 1/3rd), whole qwerty keyboard can be assemblied in the keypad of 60 mm wides (less than 2.5 inches) only.5.0 the centre distance (be about adult finger width 25%) of millimeter is decreased to only 56 millimeters with required keyboard width, it is minimum to make that combination is easy to actuate the qwerty keyboard width of button.

Fig. 5 shows the keypad of Fig. 3 design, and comprises the setting of QWERTY button.Each two key 16 comprises left side 32, right side 34 and therebetween waist 38 (shown in plane graph narrower zone).Each two key 16 has higher aspect ratio, allows each two key to use by dual mode: along the adjacent a pair of of long limit with along the adjacent tetrad of minor face.Thus, some paddy key input is designated as conventional I ACK method, and wherein induction force is applied to the relative Qiu Jianshang in adjacent Qiu Jian diagonal angle simultaneously.For example, for keying in letter " W ", the user pushes in the center of correlation combiner button, pushes four adjacent double bonds 16, is numbered at least two two keys that the diagonal angle is relative in " 1 ", " 2 ", " 4 " and " 5 ".Yet the input of other paddy key can be arranged on the record of actuating of switch under two adjacent mound keys in the same column by induction.For example, be input alphabet " Q " that the user is centered close to relevant Gu Jianshang with its finger naturally, push the two keys 16 that are numbered " 1 " and " 4 " thus.Push left side 32 of " 1 " two keys or the left side 32 or the right side 34 of right side 34 and " 4 " two keys simultaneously and think " Q " input.Any combination of " 2+4 " or " 1+5 " will be input as " W ".

The result is the continuous row of high density button, and wherein each button in the delegation has identical character, and is different with the trial that reduces width in the above-mentioned prior art, and the prior art is with IACK keypad inclination 45 degree and be arranged alternately mound and Gu Jian.Operate two keys 16 by on left side 32, right side 34 or the waist 38 of this pair key, pushing.Because the mound key of this embodiment effectively by width of key obviously than wide (although centre distance reduces between the paddy key) of the keypad of Fig. 1, the also easier use of these mound keys.In the IACK of Fig. 1 keypad, each mound key 12 is with four adjacent combination buttons are relevant at the most.Among Fig. 5, the two keys of each during the middle double key is capable are associated with six adjacent combination buttons.For example, numeral " 5 " is associated with W, E, R, S, D and F.This structure helps to keep whole button density, and the design of balance more and the width density of increase combination button 14 are provided simultaneously.

Consider various following switches and feedback element structure.For example, among Fig. 6, the mound of each two key 16 comprises left side 32, right side 34 and the saddle type zone of relaxing a little 36 therebetween.Each two key has covered two rubber round button tactile feedback elements (rubber dome tactile feedback element) 46 and movement device, and one in its left side 32 times and another on its right side 34 times.Yet each two key 16 is only corresponding to a switch 28 on the printed circuit board (PCB) 30, and it is positioned under two movement devices.Therefore, on left side 32, the right side 34 of knocking two keys 16 with knock simultaneously and do not have difference between the both sides.Advantage comprises the number of leads that reduces to be connected to processor.Be not on PCB 30 if each movement device connects use 4 row 11 row that switch is required, present embodiment uses 4 row, 6 row, and required pin number has been reduced 5, reduces 50%.Figure 11 shows relevant printed circuit board (PCB) 30, has the switch of arranging by four capable 42 and six circuit row 44 of circuit 28.

In the example depicted in fig. 7, the left side 32 of each two key 16, right side 34 and saddle 36 are shared common switch activation device 40 and two wide rubber round button tactile feedback elements 48.In the example of Fig. 8, the left side 32 of each two key and right side 34 have own switch activation device 40, its own related switch 28, with and own rubber round button tactile feedback elements 46.

Fig. 9 shows the sectional view through Fig. 5, and round button (snap dome) 50 is arranged on combination button 14 and gets off to provide tactile feedback.

With reference to Figure 10, saddle 36 is lower than the neighbouring part of two keys 16.Waist 38 is narrower than the neighbouring part of two keys 16.Make bridge 37 recessed formation saddles, and make the narrow formation waist 38 of bridging, for the finger that is centered close on the adjacent combination button 14 provides additional space.

In the embodiment of Figure 12, each combination button 14 has the contact of relevant switch, and the explanation priority that it has been given on the switch of two keys 16 makes that combination button 14 will be selected as user view by system when operating at the same time.Give prominence to paddy key range 14, so itself be " mound shape ".Yet it highly is lower than the left side 32 and the right side 34 of two keys 16.Be function letter " Q " that the user pushes on the mark " Q " that is in relevant Gu Jian center.Yet if the user has also pushed two keys 16 and/or two key " 4@ " of mark " 1$ ", system will discern combination button 14 " Q " as main.Similarly, be function letter " W " that the user pushes on the combination button zone of mark " W ".Yet if the user has also pushed the edge of two keys 16 of mark " $ ", " 2 ", " @ " and/or " 5 ", system will discern combination button 14 as mainly, translate and be output as " W ".(these principles are in my explanation in the unexamined temporary patent application 60/444,227 that belongs to together.)

It is noted that also among this embodiment that some two keys 16 comprise independently mark 33, a left side 32 and a right side 34.For example, upper left pair of key is labeled as " 1 " and is labeled as " $ " on its right side 34 in its left side 32.A mark can be expressed as mainly, and the input relevant with other mark needs this pair key to combine with another button series of combination, such as with " standby " or " performing " key, thereby and can print with different color and reflect advantage.

By observing this sectional view of Figure 12 a, be appreciated that the keymat profile can help to avoid wrong input in the keypad of extreme miniaturization by providing during operation contacting the physical barriers of contiguous button.Each left side 32 and right side 34 are played by lifting the peripheral human body of finger and are isolated the effect of adjacent paddy key 14.By explanation, this figure has determined to be printed on each structural character, as shown in figure 12.As example, when pushing " W " key, the part that finger may touch " Q " stops (leaving " Q " Gu Jian 14) by the right side 34 (and right side that is labeled as " " 34 of Figure 12) that is labeled as " ".The part that finger may contact " E " stops (leaving E paddy key 14) by the left side 32 (and left side that is labeled as " 5 " 32 of Figure 12) that is labeled as " 2 ".Be appreciated that equally that when not having double bond structure 16 the finger human body of planning to knock on paddy key 14 may the contiguous button of unexpected contact.

As shown in figure 13, switch activation device 40 is centered close to each two key 16 times, and along its main shaft elongation.This also helps on the bottom surface 53 of each switch activation device 40 slight curves to be set, as shown in the figure.The actuation gear 40 of Figure 13 center illustrates and is divided into three parts, but carries out identical functions.Oval two round button 52 (shown in Figure 16) is positioned at each two key 16 below.The cross section of movement device 14 also can be along with the profile of two round buttons 52 in the keyboard plane.

Then with reference to Figure 14 and 15, round button 50 is arranged on 14 belows, combination button zone, and its upper surface protrudes, and is opposite with depression among the embodiment of Fig. 5.Combination button zone 14 upper surfaces keep recessed with respect to the upper surface of independent key area 12.Yet the shape of protrusion can be preferred in some applications, and wherein the left side 32 of adjacent double bonds and right side 34 actuates the execution difference in functionality.

Figure 16 shows the round button 50 that is used for any above-mentioned button design and the array of two wide round buttons 52, and the round button 52 of wherein each elongation is set directly at relevant two keys below, makes that the pressure on the round button response pair any ends of key that elongate provides tactile feedback.This has prevented to respond actuating of single pair of key two tactile feedback results has taken place.

With regard to once have a plurality of key switches be positioned at finger down with regard to, have several with reduce keypad, such as, the problem that the size of QWERTY keypad is relevant.A problem is, accurately and significantly guides and points correct position.Among Fig. 5 to 13, saddle 36 and bridge 37 help head it off in two keys 16.

Figure 17 shows keypad, and each is associated its two-story valley key 14 with two keys 16 (and relevant saddle 36 and bridge 37), as rigid structure 80.How this figure this structure of having demonstrated can be expressed as two keys 16 and stride across the rhombus button 80 that its center is provided with, on one side and two key 16 along the zone of its triangle button 82 that is provided with.Each rhombus button 80 mold forms two keys 16 and two paddy keys 14, and each is arranged on any side of Gu Jian 14, and approximate its center that is positioned at, and preferably long actuation gear 40 is arranged on two key 16 belows, shown in Figure 18 a and 18b.

Another problem relevant with the extreme miniaturization is feedback.Target is that actuating of the single button of response receives single " compressing ".Utilization is arranged on a plurality of tactile feedback elements under the finger, and this purpose is extremely elusory.Shown in Figure 18 a, the actuation gear 40 that is arranged under two keys 16 is long slightly, at least round button 50 knock distance, shown in size " S ", or the height difference of round button.In either case, this target is to allow rhombus button 80 to move down, and makes that the round button 50 that is arranged under two keys 16 can be movable under the situation of not actuating the round button 50 under the Gu Jian 14.Round button 50 under two keys can be configured to show the resistance higher to deflection.Shown in Figure 18 b, use center actuation gear 40 as fulcrum, finger shakes rhombus button 80.Actuate the necessary higher force level of round button 50 under two keys 16 by preventing that actuating center round button 50 assists this process up to the distance that button 80 swings to the round button 50 of enough actuating under the Gu Jian 14.Therefore unexpected hit on two nearby keys 16 can much less, and be although software also can solve unexpected two keys action before the input of paddy key being come the Qiu Jian input, said.Therefore, if two key 16 accident during paddy key 14 is actuated is knocked, this pair key is left in the basket.Because two keys 16 relatively significantly and be easy to knock, such as obtaining the input precision of height with physical structure (and with Fig. 5 to 12 the structure) algorithm of combination.

Inadvertent depression when another problem relevant with extreme miniaturization QWERTY keypad is to distinguish adjacent key (such as " Q " and " W ").A kind of method is for to deal with problems in software, specifically be during the supposition utmost point short time in adjacent pushing (double hit) for unexpected, and ignore for the second time button thus and push.Obviously, owing to need the user to slow down the input of the adjacent key that occurs in the English text of being everlasting, such as input " R " after the input " S " or " E " after " A ", this can reduce typing speed.It is reactionless that another kind of software approach with minimum QWERTY keypad is to make device to knock two adjacent key at the same time.Figure 19 a and 19b show another kind of solution.With reference to Figure 19 a, the rigid element 84 of a series of overlappings extends to from a paddy key 14 that another is adjacent with it, and the mid point that fulcrum 86 is therebetween makes that when pushing a paddy key 14 adjacent paddy key raises, shown in Figure 19 b.Actuation gear 40 compressing round buttons 50.Fulcrum 86 compressings are on rigid surface, such as PCB 30.The end of adjacent rigid parts 84 all under common paddy key, in the middle of promptly among this figure one.Though parts 84 are shown from the independent linear part of button, parts 84 also can be integrated with button itself, such as interlocking one mold sheet button.This method helps to solve the extremely difficulty of miniaturization of keypad, it at first is the software layer of having a mind to ignore potential correct input by not increasing, secondly by introducing the analog feedback system that proportional tactile feedback is provided to the user, make her " muscle memory " association finger how accurately to place and actuate button, but not go no go simply.

In Figure 20 a to 20c, lever 84 is depicted as the mound key 12 across adjacent double bonds, and Gu Jian 14 is arranged on each fulcrum 86 top, and fulcrum remains on round button 50 tops.The effective stroke length that is arranged on the actuation gear 40 under the Qiu Jian 12 slightly is longer than the movement device size " S " under the Gu Jian 14.Thereby this allows this structure to actuate Gu Jian 14 (Figure 20 b) to moving down, and does not actuate the round button of any continuous mound key 12, thereby and rotates and actuate Qiu Jian 12 (Figure 20 c).Though parts shown in the figure 84 are and the whole mold sheet (similar with the rhombus button of Figure 17) of button, it also can be a part independently, as Figure 19 a.As above described with reference to Figure 18 a and 18b, higher force round button 50 can use (in the case paddy key 14 times) at fulcrum 86 places.

Follow with reference to Figure 21 a to 21c the visible features of keyboard shown in mold sheet rubber 90 provides.Sheet 90 and the insulated leg 92 of paddy key 14 corresponding zones by rigidity such as duroplasts, keep leaving PCB 30.Sheet rubber 90 can form with parts molds such as mound key 12 and Gu Jian 14, and insulated leg 92 forms by the rigidity insert.In this example, Gu Jian 14 is mainly depression or smooth, and non-protruding.Though other structure and Figure 20 a's is similar, the operating principle difference of this example.Among Figure 21 b, contact two adjacent mound keys 12 but not the finger of middle paddy key 14 is transported to power actuation gear 86 on the round button 50 that is associated with paddy key 14 by rigid element 84.During deflection, bearing 92 can be configured to keep corresponding to distance between the zone of the sheet 90 of paddy key 14 and the PCB 30.Because relatively short knock (0.15 to 0.45mm the magnitude) that is comprised, the deflecting force in the sheet 92 is very low.Among Figure 21 c, finger is directly pushed Qiu Jian 12, and the shaft-pivot structure 84 that tilts thus.Insulated leg 92 provides bigger power on sheet 92, because stroke is higher, but also played the effect that reduces to act on the power on the round button 50 that is associated with paddy key 14.This push more frequent of paddy key 14 and expectation lower make every effort to promote moving level the time very effective.

Introduced the present invention with reference to a plurality of embodiment.Yet, be appreciated that not breaking away from and carry out various adjustment on the spirit and scope of the invention basis.Therefore, other embodiment belongs to the scope of claims.

Claims (37)

1. keypad, it has Qiu Jian, and described mound key is with respect to contiguous button and with respect to the nominal plane of keyboard projection partly, and described keypad also has Gu Jian, and described paddy key caves in partly with respect to contiguous mound key,

The name of Qiu Jian (12) effectively equals the name of Gu Jian effectively by width of key (V) by width of key (H).

2. keypad as claimed in claim 1, each is associated wherein a plurality of at least mound keys (12) with corresponding mound key (12), make adjacent mound key (12) to and join domain (37) form two keys (16) of elongation.

3. keypad, it has Qiu Jian, and described mound key is with respect to contiguous button and with respect to the nominal plane of the keyboard button of projection partly, and described keypad also has Gu Jian, and described paddy key caves in partly with respect to contiguous mound key,

Each is associated wherein a plurality of at least mound keys (12) with corresponding mound key (12) function, the adjacent mound key (12) of keypad to and join domain (37) form two keys (16) of elongation.

4. as claim 2 or 3 described keypads, wherein join domain (37) is the form of the local bridge that raises.

5. keypad as claimed in claim 4 is wherein observed from the direction perpendicular to keypad, and bridge is narrower, thereby forms waist (38) between adjacent mound key (12).

6. keypad as claimed in claim 4, its jackshaft is downward-sloping towards its mid point, thereby forms saddle (36) between adjacent mound key (12).

7. as claim 2 or 3 described keypads, wherein a plurality of pairs of keys (16) have left side (32) and right side (34) with different identification marks at least.

8. as the keypad of claim 2 or 3, the switch (28) of two key (16) covering boards (30) wherein, and with separate and when pushing its relevant mound key (12), be associated from switch (28) is vertical with conduction actuation gear (40) that switch electrically contacts.

9. keypad as claimed in claim 8, wherein each two key (16) is associated with the actuation gear (40) of an only elongation.

10. keypad as claimed in claim 9, wherein Shen Chang actuation gear (40) has the lower surface along its curved in length.

11. keypad as claimed in claim 8, wherein each two key (16) is associated with the tactile feedback elements (48) of an only elongation.

12. keypad as claimed in claim 8, wherein at least a plurality of pairs of keys (16) each be associated with a pair of actuation gear (40), this is arranged in the actuation gear each under of a pair of mound key (12) of two keys (16).

13. keypad as claimed in claim 12, wherein right two actuation gears (40) of actuation gear cooperate the single switch (28) of circuit board (30).

14. keypad as claimed in claim 12, wherein right two actuation gears (40) of actuation gear cooperate the different switches (28) of circuit board (30).

15. as any described keypad in the claim 12 to 14, wherein at least a plurality of pairs of keys (16) each be associated with a pair of tactile feedback elements (48), this is arranged in the feedback element each under of a pair of mound key (12) of two keys (16).

16. as any described keypad in the claim 12 to 14, its two-story valley key (14) is arranged by row, every row comprise two keys (16).

17. as any described keypad in the claim 12 to 14, wherein each two key (16) is with respect to following circuit board (30) rigidity press-key structure (80) movably.

18. keypad as claimed in claim 17, wherein the rigidity press-key structure (80) of each two key (16) also strides across at least one adjacent paddy key (14).

19. keypad as claimed in claim 18, the rigidity press-key structure (80) that wherein forms several pairs of keys (16) also strides across two adjacent paddy keys (14), and described two adjacent paddy keys lay respectively at the both sides of two keys (16).

20. keypad as claimed in claim 17, wherein the row of the row at two key (16) places and paddy key (14) is alternately arranged.

21. as the described keypad of claim 12 to 14, wherein adjacent paddy key (14) is to linking to each other on the structure, make a paddy key (14) towards the mobile paddy key of following circuit board (30) centering will make this to the paddy key in another paddy key (14) move away from circuit board.

22. keypad as claimed in claim 21, wherein every pair of paddy key (14) comprises the bar that strides across a pair of paddy key and can center on fulcrum (86) rotation between the paddy key (14) that is striden across.

23. keypad as claimed in claim 22, its king-rod (84) is located contact circuit plate (30) at fulcrum (86).

24. keypad as claimed in claim 22, its central bearing point (86) contact circle button (50).

25. keypad as claimed in claim 24, the round button (50) under its central bearing point (86) are configured to provide the higher feedback force of round button (50) than relevant with mound key (12).

26. as claim 2 or 3 described keypads, but also comprise pivotable member (84), but pivotable member (84) strides across two the mound keys (12) and the paddy key (14) of different two keys (16), makes that when one of described mound key (12) moved down, another of described mound key (12) moved up.

27. as claim 2 or 3 described keypads, the surface that its two-story valley key (14) exposes is what protrude.

28. as claim 2 or 3 described keypads, its two-story valley key (14) comprises the local zone that raises, it is recessed with respect to mound key (12).

29. as claim 2 or 3 described keypads, wherein the center of adjacent valleys key (14) is to separate less than 6 mm distance.

30. as claim 2 or 3 described keypads, wherein the center of adjacent valleys key (14) is to separate less than 5.4 mm distance.

31. as claim 2 or 3 described keypads, each is associated wherein a plurality of at least mound keys (12) with at least six paddy keys (14).

32. as claim 2 or 3 described keypads, wherein delegation's button tag arrangement read into, from left to right, Q-W-E-R-T-Y.

33. as claim 2 or 3 described keypads, wherein when pushing separately, Qiu Jian (12) provides corresponding output, and the output that its two-story valley key (14) is labeled as corresponding at least from predetermined group of two or more mound keys (12) of contiguous paddy key (14) time or approximate operation simultaneously produces.

34. as claim 2 or 3 described keypads, wherein only mound key (12) provides electroresponse when being actuated, the output corresponding with the mark of paddy key (14) only gets from the combination from the electroresponse of actuating of adjacent mound key (12).

35. as claim 2 or 3 described keypads, its two-story valley key (14) is relevant with contiguous mound key (12) algorithm.

36. keypad as claimed in claim 35, wherein button output is actuated and is actuated combination from adjacent switch both determine from single switch.

37. electronic installation, have claim 1 or 3 described keypads, wherein when pushing separately, Qiu Jian (12) provides corresponding output, and at the same time or during approximate two mound keys (12) of pushing contiguous described paddy key (14) simultaneously, Gu Jian (14) provides output.

Images