EP3704725B1 - Module de touches pour clavier et clavier - Google Patents

Module de touches pour clavier et clavier Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3704725B1
EP3704725B1 EP18746187.6A EP18746187A EP3704725B1 EP 3704725 B1 EP3704725 B1 EP 3704725B1 EP 18746187 A EP18746187 A EP 18746187A EP 3704725 B1 EP3704725 B1 EP 3704725B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
key module
wing
key
wing element
contact
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP18746187.6A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
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EP3704725A1 (fr
Inventor
Eduard Ruff
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
ZF Electronics GmbH
Original Assignee
ZF Electronics GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
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First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=63036077&utm_source=***_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=EP3704725(B1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Priority claimed from DE102017125373.4A external-priority patent/DE102017125373A1/de
Priority claimed from DE102018102604.8A external-priority patent/DE102018102604A1/de
Application filed by ZF Electronics GmbH filed Critical ZF Electronics GmbH
Publication of EP3704725A1 publication Critical patent/EP3704725A1/fr
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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H3/00—Mechanisms for operating contacts
    • H01H3/02—Operating parts, i.e. for operating driving mechanism by a mechanical force external to the switch
    • H01H3/12—Push-buttons
    • H01H3/122—Push-buttons with enlarged actuating area, e.g. of the elongated bar-type; Stabilising means therefor
    • H01H3/125—Push-buttons with enlarged actuating area, e.g. of the elongated bar-type; Stabilising means therefor using a scissor mechanism as stabiliser
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
    • H01H13/70—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard
    • H01H13/7006—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard comprising a separate movable contact element for each switch site, all other elements being integrated in layers
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
    • H01H13/70—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard
    • H01H13/702—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard with contacts carried by or formed from layers in a multilayer structure, e.g. membrane switches
    • H01H13/705—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard with contacts carried by or formed from layers in a multilayer structure, e.g. membrane switches characterised by construction, mounting or arrangement of operating parts, e.g. push-buttons or keys
    • H01H13/7065—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard with contacts carried by or formed from layers in a multilayer structure, e.g. membrane switches characterised by construction, mounting or arrangement of operating parts, e.g. push-buttons or keys characterised by the mechanism between keys and layered keyboards
    • H01H13/7073—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard with contacts carried by or formed from layers in a multilayer structure, e.g. membrane switches characterised by construction, mounting or arrangement of operating parts, e.g. push-buttons or keys characterised by the mechanism between keys and layered keyboards characterised by springs, e.g. Euler springs
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
    • H01H13/70—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard
    • H01H13/83—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by legends, e.g. Braille, liquid crystal displays, light emitting or optical elements
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2221/00—Actuators
    • H01H2221/058—Actuators to avoid tilting or skewing of contact area or actuator
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2233/00—Key modules
    • H01H2233/07—Cap or button on actuator part
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2237/00—Mechanism between key and laykey
    • H01H2237/004—Cantilever

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a key module for a keyboard and to a keyboard with at least one such key module.
  • keyboards such as are used in connection with computers
  • different key systems can be used.
  • the EP 1 612 821 A2 discloses a tactile switch, a keyboard, and a tactile switch assembly jig.
  • a key switch device In the U.S. 2001/0007301 A1 a key switch device, a keyboard with the key switch device, and an electronic device with the keyboard are described.
  • the CN 104299828A shows an ultra-thin keyboard switch.
  • the U.S. 2001/0027914 A1 discloses a button or push button button with scissors mechanism.
  • a key switch with scissors mechanism and a keyboard with the key switch are shown.
  • the CN 105023789A shows a keyboard switch with a linearly guided key plunger.
  • the CN 204332781 U discloses an illuminated keyboard switch with a linearly guided key plunger.
  • the present invention provides an improved key module for a keyboard and an improved keyboard according to the independent claims.
  • Advantageous configurations result from the dependent claims and the following description.
  • a mechanical system or guiding mechanism can be provided for a key module, which has a double-wing unit and an elastic means coupled to the double-wing unit.
  • the guide mechanism can be formed in order to bring about, for example, a parallel, synchronous and backlash-free or low-backlash guidance or parallel guidance of an upper part of the key module.
  • the double unit and the elastic means are also designed in connection with a switching unit to, with regard to actuation of the Key module provide a restoring force and cause a specific force-displacement curve and make it adjustable.
  • a very flat mechanical switch module can be provided, for example for games or gaming applications, high-end office applications or office applications in the upscale segment and the like.
  • the switch module can be used in notebooks and flat keyboards, for example.
  • the force-displacement curve of the button module with regard to an actuation can be provided by the manufacturer, by the customer and additionally or alternatively be set by the user.
  • the button module can, for example, allow customer-specific further processing by the user.
  • a service life of the key module can also be achieved which can be in the range of classic mechanical key modules, for example.
  • the key module can support a uniform and economical illumination of a key cap or an upper part by a light source or light source that can be integrated.
  • Such a key module can, for example, also meet very flat dimensions, such as a block dimension of 1 to 4 millimeters, in particular a block dimension of up to about 2 millimeters.
  • the keyboard can be provided for a computer or the like, for example.
  • the keyboard can have at least one key module.
  • the button module can be part of a key or represent a key. One key module can thus be provided for each key.
  • the button module can also be referred to as a mechanical button.
  • the at least one spring element can also be referred to as an elastic means.
  • the receiving sections of the carrier element can be formed as bearing notches, incisions or the like. In other words, the receiving sections of the carrier element can be formed in a notch shape, a V shape and additionally or alternatively in a dovetail shape.
  • the carrier element can be formed in one piece.
  • each wing element can have coupling sections for mechanically coupling the wing elements to one another.
  • a first coupling portion may be formed at an end of the first arm of each wing member.
  • a second coupling portion may be formed at an end of the second arm of each wing member.
  • the first coupling section and the second coupling section can be shaped differently.
  • the first coupling section of the first wing element can be coupled to the second coupling section of the second wing element.
  • the second coupling section of the first wing element can be coupled to the first coupling section of the second wing element.
  • the first coupling sections can be shaped complementarily to the second coupling sections.
  • Such an embodiment offers the advantage that the wing elements can be coupled to one another safely and reliably.
  • the wing elements can be formed as identical parts.
  • first coupling section can be formed as a link and the second coupling section can be formed as a projection section.
  • first coupling section and the second Coupling section be formed as teeth.
  • the first wing element and the second wing element can also be shaped identically to one another. Additionally or alternatively, each wing element can be formed in one piece. Additionally or alternatively, each wing element can be formed from a metal material. In particular, the wing elements can be designed as stamped parts and additionally or alternatively as identical parts. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that production of the wing elements can be simplified and reduced in cost. In addition, the stability of the wing elements can be increased.
  • each wing element can have at least one connecting section for connecting the wing element to an upper part for the key module.
  • the upper part can have a key cap or can be coupled to a key cap.
  • the keycap may represent a part of the key that is visible to an operator and operable by depressing it.
  • the at least one connecting section can be formed as an elastically deformable bar section or as an elastically deformable bar section with an end section that is bent into a base area of the web.
  • the bent end section can be arranged between the web of the wing element and the carrier element when the key module is in a mounted state.
  • the carrier element can have solder pads or connection pins for attaching the carrier element to a circuit substrate of the keyboard. Additionally or alternatively, the carrier element can be formed from a metal material. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that the button module can be attached directly to a printed circuit board or the like. Furthermore, the carrier element can be of robust design.
  • the carrier element can also have at least one anchoring section for anchoring a stabilizer bracket for stabilizing an upper part for the key module with regard to torques and bending moments.
  • the at least one anchoring section can be shaped as an ear, an eyelet or the like.
  • Such an embodiment offers the advantage that the stabilizer bracket can be attached directly to the button module. This means that an integrated solution for additional stabilization can be implemented, especially for long keys.
  • the at least one spring element is designed as a tension spring.
  • a restoring force can be provided that is structurally simple, reliable and adjustable by replacing the at least one spring element.
  • At least one cam is provided for deforming the at least one spring element when the key module is in an actuated state.
  • the at least one cam can be formed on the carrier element, on a switching unit and additionally or alternatively on an upper part for the key module.
  • the upper part can have a key cap or can be coupled to a key cap.
  • the at least one cam can also be referred to as a projection element, a tooth, a nose or the like.
  • the button module can have a switching unit.
  • the switching unit can have a housing and a contact device, which is arranged at least partially in the housing, for establishing an electrical contact when the key module is actuated.
  • the contact device can have a fixed contact piece with a first contact and a contactor with a first spring clip carrying a second contact and additionally or alternatively a second spring clip for generating an actuation noise and additionally or alternatively at least one actuation section.
  • the contactor can be formed in one piece.
  • the contactor can have either the first spring shackle and at least one actuating section or the first spring shackle, the second spring shackle and at least two actuating sections.
  • the at least one actuating section can be pressed by the upper part or an auxiliary actuator.
  • the electrical contact can be established at a contact point between the first contact and the second contact.
  • Each contact can be elongate and additionally or alternatively have a linear contact area.
  • a contact area of the first contact and a contact area of the second contact can cross.
  • Each contact area can extend obliquely to a longitudinal axis of the spring clip.
  • the second spring tab can have an actuating section that is angled, kinked, or curved.
  • the second spring tab may be shaped to produce the actuation sound upon rebound against the housing.
  • Such an embodiment offers the advantage that the electrical contact can be made reliably, it being possible for the force-displacement curve of an actuation to be influenced by a suitable design of the contact device.
  • an actuation noise can optionally be implemented in a simple manner.
  • the switching unit can enable both the function of making electrical contact and acoustic feedback. This can be realized by the one-piece contactor with the at least one spring clip.
  • the housing can be formed at least in a section from a transparent or opaque material and additionally or alternatively at least in a section as at least one lens. Additionally or alternatively, the housing can have a receiving bay for a light source. Additionally or alternatively, at least one groove for receiving at least a partial section of the at least one spring element can be formed in the housing when the key module is in an actuated state.
  • the at least one groove can also be referred to as a depression section, an elongate trough or a groove.
  • the at least one lens may be configured to distribute light from a light source across the top of the key module and additionally or alternatively across the keycap.
  • the at least one lens can be configured to focus or diffuse light.
  • the at least one lens can be designed as an optical diffuser.
  • the contact device can also have soldering pads or connection pins for attaching the switching unit to a circuit substrate of the keyboard. Additionally or alternatively, the contact device can be formed in order to produce the electrical contact by generating friction between the first contact and the second contact. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that a deterioration in contact due to contamination by particles can be avoided.
  • the key module can have an upper part.
  • the upper part can have a key cap or can be coupled to a key cap.
  • at least one groove for receiving at least a partial section of the at least one spring element can be formed in the upper part when the key module is in an actuated state.
  • the key module can have a stabilizer bracket for stabilizing an upper part for the key module with regard to torques and bending moments.
  • the stabilizer bar can be anchored to the carrier element of the key module.
  • the housing can have an actuation opening for exposing the at least one actuation section of the contact device. Additionally or alternatively, the housing can have a deflection section for deflecting the second spring clip of the contact device when the key module is actuated.
  • the deflection portion may be formed obliquely inclined relative to the movement of the key module upon actuation.
  • the deflection section can be curved, slightly stepped, shaped as a nub or cam, or the like. The deflection section can be designed to bring about a deflection or deflection of the second spring clip transversely or obliquely with respect to the movement of the key module during actuation when the key module is actuated.
  • An angle of inclination of the deflection section relative to the movement of the button module during actuation can be smaller than an angle of inclination of an angled or kinked actuation section of the second spring clip.
  • Such an embodiment offers the advantage that simple and reliable actuation of the contact device can be made possible through the actuation opening. Additionally or alternatively, a defined and low-friction deflection or deflection of the second spring shackle can be achieved in order to cause the second spring shackle to snap back for the purpose of generating noise.
  • the button module can also have an auxiliary actuator for actuating the contact device.
  • the housing can have at least one holding section for holding the manual actuator.
  • the auxiliary actuator may have at least one attachment portion for movably attaching the auxiliary actuator to the at least one mounting portion of the housing. Additionally or alternatively, the auxiliary actuator can have at least one lug for deflecting the first spring clip and additionally or alternatively the second spring clip of the contact device when the key module is actuated.
  • a movable attachment of the auxiliary actuator to the housing can be effected, wherein the movable attachment can be, for example, articulated or translational.
  • the second spring tab may be shaped to produce the actuation sound upon rebound against the auxiliary actuator.
  • the auxiliary actuator can have a lug for deflecting the first spring shackle and additionally or alternatively the second spring shackle or at least one first lug for deflecting the first spring shackle and a second lug for deflecting the second spring shackle.
  • the auxiliary actuator can have at least one fixing section for fixing the auxiliary actuator to the first wing element or the second wing element.
  • the auxiliary actuator can be carried along or moved along with the at least one fixing section when the key module is actuated by at least one of the wing elements in at least one direction of movement.
  • the at least one fixing section can be formed as a projection.
  • At least one key module mentioned above can be used or used in connection with the keyboard.
  • the at least one key module can be attached directly to the circuit substrate, for example by means of soldering or by inserting contact pins.
  • the key module described can be used as a replacement for existing key modules, for example for key modules with a linear guide.
  • Such modules are robust, reliable, durable and have a classic switching mechanism with precious metal contacts and metal return springs.
  • the mechanical concept allows the realization of precise, low-tilting linear movements with large actuation paths, e.g. B. 3 to 4 millimeters, and is one of the classic mechanical switches. Switches with different force-displacement curves and with linear force-displacement curves, with tactile curves or with a noticeable pressure point and with click curves or curves that can be felt and heard are widespread.
  • Embodiments of the button module described here avoid the disadvantages of such existing button modules and still have the advantages mentioned above and also a lower overall height than the modules mentioned above. For this reason, embodiments of the key module described can be used not only for flat keyboards but also for notebooks or the like.
  • the button module described can also be used as a replacement for button modules with a scissor mechanism as a parallel guide and with a rubber bell as a switching mechanism.
  • Key modules with a scissor mechanism have a flat design combined with relatively large actuation paths.
  • the functionalities of guidance and force-displacement curve are usually separate, so that the scissor mechanism takes on the function of guidance or parallel guidance and a rubber bell or snap-action disc forms a switching mechanism and is responsible for the specific force-displacement curve.
  • the parallel guidance can be made stable and precise, rigidity against tilting can be provided and a service life can be extended.
  • noise during actuation can be minimized.
  • a force-displacement characteristic and reliability that is stable over the service life of the module can also be achieved, in contrast to some silicone rubber bells due to the setting behavior.
  • a double wing mechanism or butterfly mechanism is not very common. Either classic rubber bells with and without switching membranes or metal snap-action discs are used as switching mechanisms.
  • the wings of the dual wing mechanic are half the length of the levers of the scissor mechanic. Because of this, such mechanisms are more rigid against tilting compared to scissor mechanisms. With the same angular position of the levers, an actuation path is half as large as with scissor mechanisms.
  • the wings of the mechanics are often realized as a connection by means of a film hinge. However, a pseudo-parallel movement can occur if only one wing is rotatably mounted and the second wing is implemented as a link.
  • a snap disk can also be selected as the rear derailleur.
  • the double-wing mechanism assumes the role of parallel guidance, while the snap-action disc forms a switching mechanism and ensures a specific force-displacement curve and reset. Hinges can introduce play and affect tilting stiffness. Key modules with the double-wing mechanism have advantages in terms of rigidity against tilting and parallelism. Embodiments of the button module described here can avoid disadvantages and achieve the advantages mentioned above and also advantages with regard to the overall actuation path.
  • the keyboard 100 is, for example, part of a notebook computer, laptop computer or the like. Alternatively, the keyboard 100 is designed in particular as a peripheral device for a computer.
  • the keyboard 100 has a circuit substrate 110 .
  • the circuit substrate 110 is, for example, a circuit board, circuit board or the like.
  • the keyboard 100 has a plurality of key modules 120 .
  • the key modules 120 are arranged on the circuit substrate 110 .
  • the key modules 120 are soldered onto the circuit substrate 110, for example.
  • each key module 120 a key cap 125 attached.
  • each key cap 125 is coupled to its own key module 120 .
  • Each unit of key module 120 and key cap 125 represents a key on keyboard 100.
  • each key module 120 represents a key on keyboard 100.
  • Key modules 120 in particular will be discussed in more detail with reference to the following figures.
  • Keycap 125 represents a portion of a key that a user of keyboard 100 can see and touch.
  • a key module 120 is actuated by pressing the key cap 125.
  • Each key module 120 is designed to react to an actuation force with a force-displacement characteristic of a resistance or a restoring force.
  • each button module 120 is designed to produce an electrical connection in response to an actuation with a predefinable actuation path, with a switching process being carried out.
  • the 2 12 shows a partially exploded view of a key module 120 according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • the button module 120 corresponds to or resembles the button module 1 .
  • the key module 120 also has the key cap 125 .
  • the key cap 125 is provided separately from the key module 120 and can be coupled to the same.
  • the key cap 125 represents an upper part of the key module 120 or for the key module 120. At least one alphanumeric character or a special character is printed on the key cap 125.
  • the key module 120 has a first wing element 230 and a second wing element 230 for guiding a movement of the key module 120 when operated by a user.
  • the two wing elements 230 are mechanically coupled to one another.
  • the wing members 230 are shown in an unactuated state of the button module 120.
  • FIG. In the unactuated state, the mechanically coupled wing members 230 subtend an obtuse angle of repose therebetween.
  • the wing elements 230 coupled to one another span an opening angle between them which is greater than the rest angle.
  • the opening angle can also be 180 degrees.
  • a difference between the angle of repose and the angle of opening can be in a range of approximately 12 degrees to 18 degrees, for example.
  • Each wing member 230 includes a web, a first arm, and a second arm.
  • the arms here extend away from the bridge.
  • the arms extend perpendicularly from the web.
  • the arms also extend parallel to one another, for example within a tolerance range.
  • the arms can also extend obliquely with respect to one another.
  • the first wing member 230 and the second wing member 230 are formed identical to each other.
  • each wing element 230 is formed in one piece.
  • each wing member 230 is formed of a metal material. The manner in which the wing elements 230 are shaped and coupled to one another will also be discussed in more detail with reference to the following figures.
  • Each of the wing elements 230 has, according to FIG 2 shown and described embodiment, for example, two attachment sections 232 for attaching a spring element and two bearing sections 234 for storing the wing element 230.
  • the fastening sections 232 are formed on the web of the wing element 230 .
  • the attachment portions 232 are as Through openings, in particular as rounded triangular through openings, formed in the wing element 230.
  • the bearing portions 234 are formed on the arms of the wing member 230 .
  • a first bearing section 234 is formed on the first arm and a second bearing section 234 is formed on the second arm.
  • the bearing portions 234 are formed as ledges, steps, or lugs in outer side edges of the arms of the wing member 230 .
  • Each wing member 230 also includes at least one connecting portion 236 for connecting the wing member 230 to an upper part for the button module 120 .
  • the upper part has the key cap 125 .
  • each wing element 230 has a connecting section 236 by way of example.
  • the connecting portion 236 is formed on the ridge of the wing member 230 .
  • the connecting section 236 is formed as an elastically deformable beam section.
  • the connecting section 236, which is designed as an elastically deformable beam section has an end section 238 which is bent into a base area of the web.
  • the key cap 125 can be connected to the wing elements 230 and thus to the key module 120 via a snap connection by means of the connecting section 236 .
  • the key module 120 also has at least one spring element 240 for providing a restoring force when the key module 120 is actuated.
  • the key module 120 has a spring element 240 by way of example.
  • the spring element 240 is attached to one of the attachment sections 232 of the first wing element 230 and to one of the attachment sections 232 of the second wing element 230 .
  • the spring element 240 is designed as a tension spring.
  • the key module 120 also includes a support member 250 for supporting the wing members 230 .
  • the support member 250 is also configured to support the spring member 240 and optionally the keycap 125 when attached to the wing members 230 .
  • This is Support member 250 formed from a metal material.
  • the carrier element 250 has a plurality of receiving sections 252 for receiving the bearing sections 234 of the wing elements 230 . According to the 2 In the exemplary embodiment shown and described, the carrier element 250 has four receiving sections 252 .
  • the receiving sections 252 are formed as bearing notches in the carrier element 250 . In other words, the receiving sections 252 are formed in a notch shape, a V-shape or a dovetail shape.
  • the bearing sections 234 of the wing elements 230 are mounted in the mounting sections 252 when the button module 120 is in an installed state.
  • the wing elements 230 are thus mounted on the carrier element 250 in a pivotable or tiltable manner in a predefinable angular range.
  • the angular range can also be defined by a shape of the receiving sections 252 .
  • the assembly of wing elements 230 and spring element 240 can also be referred to as a guide system.
  • the carrier element 250 is thus designed to carry at least the guide mechanism.
  • the button module 120 also has a switching unit 260 .
  • the switching unit 260 has a housing 270 and a contact device 280 .
  • the contact device 280 is at least partially arranged in the housing 270 .
  • the housing 270 is shaped to accommodate at least a portion of the contactor 280 .
  • the contact device 280 is designed to establish an electrical contact when the key module 120 is actuated. In this case, the contact device 280 can be pressed or deformed, for example, by the key cap 125 in order to bring about the establishment of the electrical contact.
  • the switching unit 260 will be discussed in more detail with reference to the following figures.
  • FIG 3 12 shows a partially exploded view of button module 120.
  • FIG 2 in a partially assembled condition. while showing 3 the button module 120 in one compared to 2 further assembled state.
  • the switching unit 260 is shown in an assembled state, with the contact device 280 being partially accommodated in the housing 270 .
  • the wing elements 230 are mounted on the carrier element 250 .
  • the bearing sections 234 of the wing elements 230 are arranged in the receiving sections 252 of the carrier element 250 .
  • FIG 4 12 shows an oblique top view of the button module 120.
  • FIG 2 or. 3 in an assembled state. Here are from the button module 120 due to the perspective in the representation of 4 the key cap 125 and the carrier element 250 visible.
  • the key cap 125 is connected to the wing elements and the switching unit is arranged surrounded by the webs and arms of the wing elements.
  • figure 5 12 shows an oblique bottom view of button module 120.
  • FIG 4 The key cap 125, the wing elements 230 with two of the four fastening sections 232, two of the four bearing sections 234 and one of the two connecting sections 236 with the bent end section 238 are shown here from the key module 120. Furthermore, the carrier element 250 with two of the receiving sections 252 and soldering surfaces 554, the housing 270 with a receiving bay 574 and the contact device 280 with soldering surfaces 582 are shown.
  • the solder pads 554 of the support member 250 are used to attach the support member 250 to a circuit substrate of a keyboard.
  • the solder pads 582 of the contact means 280 of the switching unit are used to attach the switching unit to the circuit substrate of the keyboard.
  • the button module 120 can be assembled directly on the circuit substrate by soldering the pads 554 and 582 onto the circuit substrate.
  • the receiving bay 574 for receiving a light source is formed.
  • the housing is 270 according to an exemplary embodiment, at least in a partial section, it is formed from a transparent or opaque material, in particular a plastic material.
  • the switching unit with the housing 270 and the contact device 280 is arranged in an installation space which is surrounded by the webs and arms of the wing elements 230 .
  • the carrier element and the switching unit can be attachable to the circuit substrate of the keyboard by means of connection pins.
  • FIG 6 12 shows an oblique top view of the button module 120.
  • FIG Figures 2 to 5 in an assembled condition and without the keycap.
  • the representation in 6 the representation 2 or. 3 except that the keycap is omitted and the key module 120 is shown in the assembled state.
  • FIG. 7 Figure 12 shows an oblique view of a portion of the button module Figures 2 to 6 .
  • the inside 7 Illustrated section of the key module includes the guide mechanism or the wing elements 230 and the spring element 240.
  • the attachment sections 232, the bearing sections 234, the connecting sections 236 and the first coupling sections 731 and second coupling sections 733 of the wing elements 230 are shown.
  • the coupling portions 731, 733 are formed to mechanically couple the wing members 230 to each other.
  • Each wing element 230 has a first coupling portion 731 and a second coupling portion 733 .
  • the first coupling portion 731 is formed at an end of the first arm of each wing member 230 and the second coupling portion 733 is formed at an end of the second arm of each wing member 230 .
  • the first coupling portion 731 and the second coupling portion 733 each Wing element 230 are shaped differently. All of the first coupling sections 731 are shaped in the same way and all of the second coupling sections 733 are shaped in the same way.
  • first coupling section 731 of the first wing element 230 can be coupled to the second coupling section 733 of the second wing element 230 and the second coupling section 733 of the first wing element 230 can be coupled to the first coupling section 731 of the second wing element 230 .
  • first coupling section 731 is shaped as a gate and the second coupling section 733 is shaped as a projection section or a plate.
  • first coupling section and the second coupling section can be formed as teeth.
  • 8 12 shows a side view of button module 120.
  • FIG 4 or. figure 5 Here are in the side view of 8 represented by the key module 120, the key cap 125, the wing elements 230 with two of the bearing sections 234, the carrier element 250 with two of the receiving sections 255 and the housing 270 of the switching unit.
  • 9 12 shows a side view of button module 120.
  • FIG 4 or. figure 5 The in 9 illustrated side view of the side view 8 except that the button module is 120 in 9 compared to the representation 8 is rotated a quarter turn about a direction orthogonal to a character printed surface of the key cap 125 .
  • the spring element 240, the carrier element 250 and the housing 270 of the switching unit with the groove 272 are shown of the key module 120.
  • FIG. 12 shows a plan view of a key cap 125.
  • the key cap 125 is the key cap from one of the figures described above or a similar key cap.
  • buttons 11 12 shows a side view of button module 120.
  • FIG 6 The in 11 shown side view of in 9 shown side view with Except that the keycap is omitted.
  • the button module 120 in the illustration of FIG 11 one of the wing elements 230 with the connecting portion 236, the spring element 240, the carrier element 250 and the housing 270 of the switching unit with the groove 272 are shown.
  • 12 12 shows a side view of button module 120.
  • FIG 4 or. figure 5 The in 12 shown side view of in 8 side view shown except that the key cap is omitted.
  • the wing elements 230 are shown with two of the bearing sections 234, the spring element 240, the carrier element 250 with two of the receiving sections 255 and the housing 270 of the switching unit.
  • 13 12 shows a top view of the key module 120 from FIG 6 , 11 or. 12 .
  • the wing elements 230 with the fastening sections 232, the connecting sections 236 and the coupling sections 731 and 733, the spring element 240, sections of the carrier element 250, the housing 270 with the groove 272 and sections of the contact device 280 are shown.
  • first arms 1337 and second arms 1339 of the wing elements 230 are also explicitly referred to.
  • a portion 1376 of housing 270 formed as at least one lens.
  • the groove 272 is arranged between the partial section 1376 and a further partial section of the housing 270 in which the contact device 280 is partially accommodated.
  • Section 1376 of housing 270 is configured to diffuse and/or focus light from a light source. According to one exemplary embodiment, the light source can also be accommodated at least partially in the housing 270 .
  • the contact device 280 corresponds or is similar to the contact device from one of the figures described above.
  • the contact device 280 can be used as a contact device for a switching unit of a key module from one of the figures described above.
  • the contact device 280 has a fixed contact piece 1482 and a contactor 1484 .
  • the fixed contact piece 1482 and the contactor 1484 are electrically insulated from one another.
  • a first contact of the contact device 280 is arranged on the fixed contact piece 1482 .
  • a second contact of the contact device 280 is arranged on the contactor 1484 .
  • the contactor 1484 has a first spring clip 1486 carrying the second contact and two actuating sections 1488, merely by way of example.
  • the first spring clip 1486 can be moved via the actuating sections 1488 until electrical contact is established between the first contact and the second contact.
  • the actuating sections 1488 can be actuated, for example, by an upper part for the key module or the key module.
  • the contactor 1484 is elastically deformable. Thus, the contactor 1484 also functions as an elastic means.
  • the fixed contact piece 1482 and the contactor 1484 each have at least one soldering surface, as shown in figure 5 are shown.
  • 15 shows the contact device 280 from 14 . More precisely shows 15 the contactor 280 off 14 from a different perspective.
  • the first contact 1583 and the second contact 1585 are also shown and explicitly labeled.
  • the first contact 1583 has a linear or elongate contact area with a first axis of extension and the second contact 1585 has a linear or elongate contact area with a second axis of extension.
  • the first axis of extension and the second axis of extension cross one another, with electrical and mechanical contact being able to be produced between the first contact 1583 and the second contact 1585 in a punctiform contact section.
  • each axis of extension extends obliquely, in particular at an angle of, for example, 45 degrees with respect to a longitudinal axis or transverse axis of the fixed contact piece 1482 or of the contactor 1484.
  • the first contact 1583 and the second contact 1585 each have a triangular sectional profile.
  • contacts 1583 and 1585 are cut from wire and welded to contactor 280 .
  • FIG 16 shows a contact device 280 for a button module according to an embodiment.
  • the contact device corresponds to 280 in 16 the contact device 14 or. 15 with the exception that the contactor 1484 has only one actuating section 1488 and is shaped differently, in particular with regard to the first spring tab 1486 and the actuating section 1488.
  • the contact device 280 in 16 a structural variant of the contact device 14 or. 15 .
  • the contactor 280 is similar to FIG 16 the contact device 14 or. 15 .
  • Of the contacts of the contact device 280 only the first contact 1583 is visible due to a perspective selected in the illustration.
  • the contactor 280 in 17 corresponds to the contact device 16 except that the contactor 1484 is shaped differently, particularly with respect to the first spring tab 1486 and the actuation portion 1488 .
  • FIG. 18 shows a contact device 280 for a button module according to an embodiment.
  • the contact device corresponds to 280 in 18 the contact device 14 or. 15 with the exception of the fact that the contactor 1484 is shaped differently, in particular with regard to the first spring clip 1486 and the actuating sections 1488. Of the contacts of the contact device 280, only the first contact 1583 is visible due to a perspective selected in the illustration.
  • the contact device 280 in particular the contactor 1484 with the at least one actuating section 1488 and the first spring clip 1486, is formed in order to establish the electrical contact by generating friction between the first contact 1583 and the second contact 1585.
  • 19 12 shows a sectional view of a button module 120 according to an embodiment.
  • the button module 120 in 19 is similar to the button module 2 , 3 , Figure 4, Figure 5 , 8 or. 9 . From the button module 120 are in 19 in this case the key cap 125 with an upper cam 1928, the wing elements 230, the spring element 240, the carrier element 250 and only by way of example two lower cams 1978 are shown.
  • the upper cam 1928 is formed as a partial portion of the key top 125 . More specifically, the upper cam 1928 is formed as a portion of the key top 125 protruding toward the spring member 240 .
  • the lower cams 1978 are molded as sections of the housing of the switch unit. The lower cams 1978 are formed as partial sections of the housing that project in the direction of the spring element 240 . For example, the lower cams 1978 are located in the groove of the housing.
  • spring element 240 is positioned between upper cam 1928 and lower cam 1978 .
  • the cams 1928 and 1978 are formed in order to deform the spring element 240 in an actuated state of the key module 120, more precisely to deform it elastically.
  • the spring element 240 can be deformed by the cams 1928 and 1978 as the actuation path increases when the button module 120 is actuated.
  • cams 1928 and 1978 are shaped and positioned to flex spring member 240 .
  • a spring force of the spring element 240 loses linearity, with the deformed spring element 240 increasing a restoring force counteracting an actuating force or a resistance counteracting an actuating force.
  • At least one cam can be formed on the carrier element 250 according to one exemplary embodiment.
  • the key module 120 corresponds to the key module from one of the figures described above, with the exception that the key module 120 has a switching unit with a different contact device 280 and a housing 270 adapted thereto and also an intermediate piece 2025 that can be coupled to the key cap 125.
  • the key cap 125 and the intermediate piece 2025 represent the upper part for the key module 120.
  • the intermediate piece 2025 can be connected to the wing elements 230 by means of the connecting sections 236.
  • the key cap 125 can be coupled to the intermediate piece 2025 .
  • 21 12 shows a partially exploded view of a key module 120 according to an exemplary embodiment.
  • the button module 120 corresponds to the button module from one of Figures 2 to 9 or. 19 except that the support member 250 includes anchoring portions 2156 for anchoring a stabilizer bracket 2190 for stabilizing an upper part for the button module 120 with respect to torques and bending moments.
  • Anchoring portions 2156 are formed in the shape of eyelets. According to the exemplary embodiment shown here, two anchoring sections 2156 are formed on the carrier element 250 by way of example. In this case, the upper part for the key module 120 has the key cap 125 . The stabilizer bracket 1190 is bent in a U-shape. The stabilizer bar 1190 is anchored in the anchoring portions 2156 . According to an exemplary embodiment, the key module 120 has the stabilizer bar 1190 .
  • 22 12 is an oblique view of a portion of a key module according to an embodiment not belonging to the present invention.
  • the section shown corresponds to that in 7 Section shown with the exception that two spring elements 240 are provided, which are designed as compression springs, and in the illustration Carrier element 250 is shown, which is similar to the carrier element from one of the figures described above, the wing elements 230 and the carrier element 250 being structurally adapted to the spring elements 240 in some cases.
  • Each of the spring members 240 extends along a coupled pair of arms of the wing members 230.
  • the attachment portions of the wing members 230 are shown in FIG 22 covered by the receiving sections 252 having wall sections of the carrier element 250.
  • the wing elements 230 are coupled to one another via the coupling sections 731 and 733 and have the bearing sections 234 and the connecting section 236 .
  • 23 12 shows a partially exploded view of a key module 120 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the button module 120 according to in 23 The exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown corresponds to the button module from one of the figures described above, with the exception that the housing 270 and the contact device 280 of the switching unit and the connecting section 236 of each wing element 230 are shaped differently and the button module 120 also has an auxiliary actuator 2392.
  • the representation in 23 is similar to the illustration 2 or 20 .
  • In 23 are of the key module 120 in particular the key cap 125, the wing elements 230 with the fastening sections 232, the bearing sections 234 and the connecting sections 236, the spring element 240, the carrier element 250 with the receiving sections 252, the housing 270 with the groove 272, the partial section 1376, two actuating openings 2371 and a mounting portion 2375, the contact device 280 with the fixed contact piece 1482, the contactor 1484, the first spring clip 1486, two actuating portions 1488 and a second spring clip 2387 and the auxiliary actuator 2392 are shown.
  • the housing 270 are according to in 23 illustrated embodiment of the present invention, for example, two actuating openings 2371 for exposing the at least one actuating section 1488 of contact device 280. Furthermore, the housing 270 has at least one holding section 2375 for holding the manual actuator 2392. According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention illustrated here, the at least one mounting section 2375 is formed as a pin.
  • the housing 270 is arranged on the support element 250 .
  • the auxiliary actuator 2392 is designed to actuate the contact device 280 . In this case, the auxiliary actuator 2392 is formed from a plastic material.
  • the contactor 1484 of the contact device 280 has the second spring clip 2387 for generating an actuation noise.
  • the first spring tab 1486 has an actuating section 1488 .
  • the second spring tab 2387 also has an actuating section 1488 .
  • the contactor 1484 is formed in one piece.
  • the contactor 1484 is formed as a stamping or stamping and bending from a metal material.
  • the housing 270, the contact device 280 and the auxiliary actuator 2392 will be discussed in more detail with reference to the following figures.
  • 24 12 shows a partially exploded view of parts of the key module 120.
  • FIG 23 The representation in 24 the representation 23 except that the key cap is omitted from the illustration.
  • FIG. 12 shows an oblique top view of the switching unit 260 and the carrier element 250.
  • FIG 23 or. 24 in a partially assembled condition.
  • the contact device is partially accommodated in the housing 270 .
  • the actuation sections 1488 of the contact device can be seen through the actuation openings 2371 of the housing 270 .
  • 26 shows the contact device 280 from 23 , 24 or. 25 .
  • the first contact 1583 arranged on the fixed contact piece 1482 is also explicitly identified.
  • the first spring tab 1486 and the second spring tab 2187 extend next to each other and over the fixed contact piece 1482. Also is in the representation of 26 It can be seen in more detail that the first spring tab 1486 tapers in the actuation section 1488 .
  • the actuating section 1488 of the second spring shackle 2387 has a kink on a side facing away from the first spring shackle 1486, at which the actuating section 1488 is bent in the direction of the fixed contact piece 1482 and the first spring shackle 1486.
  • the auxiliary actuator 2392 has two attachment sections 2794, two lugs 2796 and three fixing sections 2798.
  • the auxiliary actuator 2392 is molded in one piece, for example from a plastic material.
  • the attachment portions 2794 are shaped to allow the auxiliary actuator 2392 to be movably attached to the at least one mounting portion of the housing of the shift unit.
  • the attachment sections 2794 are formed, for example, in the shape of an arc or a hook and are designed to receive the at least one mounting section by latching or snapping.
  • the lugs 2796 are formed in order to deflect the first spring shackle and/or the second spring shackle of the contact device when the button module is actuated.
  • the auxiliary actuator 2392 can have only one lug 2796 and/or at least one lug 2796 shaped differently.
  • the fixing portions 2798 are formed to fix the auxiliary actuator 2392 to the first wing member or the second wing member.
  • the fixing sections 2798 are formed as projections.
  • the auxiliary actuator 2392 can have a different number of fixing sections 2798 and/or fixing sections 2798 shaped differently.
  • the auxiliary actuator 2392 23 , 24 or. 27 in an oblique top view. Due to the illustration, one of the lugs 2796 is covered by one of the fixing sections 2798. It can be seen that the fixing sections 2798 are arranged and shaped in order to arrange the web of one of the wing elements between one of the fixing sections 2798 on the one hand and the remaining two fixing sections 2798 on the other hand.
  • FIG 29 12 shows a partially exploded view of parts of the key module 120.
  • FIG 24 in a partially assembled condition.
  • the spring element 240 is hooked into a respective fastening section 232 of the first wing element 230 of the second wing element 230 .
  • the wing members 230 are coupled to each other via their coupling portions.
  • the switching unit and the support member 250 are in the state of 25 shown.
  • the contact device is thus accommodated at least partially in the housing 270 .
  • FIG 30 12 shows an oblique top view of the button module 120.
  • FIG 24 or. 29 in an assembled and unactuated condition.
  • the wing elements 230 are attached to the carrier element 250 , with the bearing sections 234 of the wing elements 230 being arranged in the receiving sections 252 of the carrier element 250 .
  • the auxiliary actuator 2392 is attached to the housing 270 by its attachment portions and fixed to one of the vane members 230 by its fixing portions. In this case, a plane of extension of the auxiliary actuator 2392 is inclined relative to a plane of extension of the housing 270 .
  • 31 12 shows an oblique top view of the button module 120.
  • FIG 24 , 29 or. 30 in an assembled and actuated condition. It can be seen that the spring element 240 is immersed in the groove 272 of the housing 270 . A portion of an actuating force exerted on the wing members 230 is transmitted via the auxiliary actuator 2392 to the contact means of the switching unit. In this case, the plane of extension of the auxiliary actuator 2392 is aligned along the plane of extension of the housing 270 in the actuated state of the key module 120 .
  • 32 12 shows a side view of button module 120.
  • FIG 30 The representation is similar to that in 32 the representation 12 .
  • the wing elements 230 with two of the bearing sections 234, the spring element 240, the carrier element 250 with two of the receiving sections 252, a section of the housing 270 and a section of the manual actuator 2392 are shown of the button module 120.
  • a section line AA for a sectional view or partial sectional view through the key module 120 is also drawn in.
  • the cutting line AA runs transversely to a longitudinal axis of the spring element 240.
  • Figure 33 12 shows a partial sectional view of the key module 120.
  • FIG 32 along section line AA.
  • a first of the lugs 2796 of the auxiliary actuator 2392 is formed and arranged to actuate or deflect the first spring clip 1486 and thus to close the contacts 1583 and 1585 .
  • a second of the lugs 2796 of the auxiliary actuator 2392 is shaped and arranged to actuate or deflect the second spring shackle 2387 in order to generate an actuation noise.
  • the deflecting portion 3373 of the housing 270 is shaped to deflect the second spring tab 2387 of the contactor 280 when the key module 120 is operated.
  • the deflection portion 3373 is formed obliquely inclined with respect to a movement or movement axis of the key module 120 when the same is operated.
  • a bending angle of the actuation section of the second spring tab 2387 is larger than an inclination angle of the deflection section 3373 relative to the axis of movement.
  • a final edge of second spring tab 2387 spaced from deflection portion 3373 . In this way, friction, scratching and the like between the deflection section 3373 and the operating section of the second spring tab 2387 can be minimized or prevented.
  • the wing elements 230 move, which is transmitted to the first spring shackle 1486 and the second spring shackle 2387 via the auxiliary actuator 2392 .
  • the first spring clip 1486 With such a deflection movement of the first spring clip 1486, the first contact 1583 and the second contact 1585 come into contact with one another.
  • the second spring shackle 2387 With such a deflection movement of the second spring shackle 2387, the latter is deflected laterally at its actuation section by the deflection section 3373.
  • the lateral deflection of the second spring shackle 2387 increases with increasing deflection, until the actuating section of the second spring shackle 2387 slips from the nose 2796 of the auxiliary actuator 2392 that actuates it and there is a noise that generates the actuation noise Kickback of the second spring clip 2387 against the housing 270 or the manual actuator 2392 comes.
  • a basis of the button module 120 is formed in particular by a double-leaf mechanism, which, in addition to the task of guiding the button in parallel, also assumes the task of restoring and of the specific force-displacement curve.
  • the wing elements 130 of the double wing mechanism are designed, for example, as stamped parts. This enables the parts to be manufactured from high-strength steel at low cost, resulting in advantages in terms of rigidity and wear. It is also conceivable to mold the parts out of plastic, for example.
  • the wing elements 230 are designed as identical parts and two wing elements 230 are used for each button module 120 .
  • the double-wing mechanism is designed for an optimal actuation path of around 1.5 millimeters or the like.
  • the wing elements 230 are not designed as a rotary hinge, but rather by means of bearing notches or the receiving sections 252, with a pivoting movement being able to be carried out only in a predefined angular range. Since the two wing elements 230 are clamped together by means of the at least one spring element 240 and pressed into the receiving sections 252, the two wing elements 230 move without play or with little play and with little noise.
  • the wing elements 230 are connected to one another by the coupling sections 731 and 733 or also by means of connecting links, which decouple counter-rotating circular movements of both wing elements 230 that result when the button module 120 is actuated.
  • the receiving sections 252, bearing sections 234, links or first coupling section 731 and fastening sections 232 or spring suspensions are arranged in such a way that the key module 120 has a falling force-displacement curve during actuation after an early maximum.
  • the force-displacement curve can be set as desired, in particular by means of the spring element 240 and the switching unit 260 and optionally the cam 1928 and/or 1978.
  • the intermediate part 2025 or the key cap 125 is designed as prestressed compensating springs or flat springs by means of two snappers Connecting sections 236 of the wing elements 230 latched and is thus backlash-free floating. During actuation, the upper part 125 or 125 and 2025 moves evenly or parallel to the carrier element 250.
  • the mechanical switching mechanism 260 Surrounded by the guide mechanism is the mechanical switching mechanism 260, which forms a classic, mechanical switch.
  • the switching mechanism has the housing 270 and the contact device 280 with two contact parts: the fixed contact piece 1482 and the resilient contactor 1484. Both contact parts are equipped with so-called crosspoint gold contacts, for example, which improves the service life and reliability of the switching unit 260.
  • the housing 270 of the switching mechanism also performs an optical function, with the housing 270 being configured to guide and distribute light from a light source onto an inner surface of the keycap 125 .
  • an actuation force initially increases abruptly because the guide mechanism is pretensioned by the at least one spring element 240 and the restoring force is highest in the rest position.
  • This behavior of the key module 120 allows a very short pre-travel to be implemented, it being possible in particular to prevent a key command from being erroneously triggered by an accidental key touch. With a rubber bell as the switching unit, the increase in force would be considerably flatter and with a longer pre-travel.
  • an actuating element of key cap 125 touches the at least one actuating section 1488 or an actuating tongue of contactor 1484, and after a defined path, contacts 1583 and 1585 or the crosspoint contacts are closed.
  • the force-displacement curve of the button module 120 changes, since the force-displacement curve of the switching mechanism or the switching unit 260 is integrated into the force-displacement curve of the guide mechanism.
  • the rigidity of the contactor 1484 changes so that the switching point can be perceived by experienced users, with the force-displacement curve showing a kink. This can be advantageous in computer games, among other things, since it is not absolutely necessary to continue pressing the button and the speed of action and effectiveness in the game can be increased as a result.
  • the spring body of the at least one spring element 240 strikes a lower cam 1978 or support cam of the rear derailleur housing or housing 270. From this moment on, the spring body begins to bend and produces an increasing force curve that keystroke softens.
  • the derailleur or the switching unit 260 can be latched into a base or the carrier element 250 .
  • the carrier element 250 of the button module 120 is designed, for example, as a stamped part, so that the button module 120 as a single, SMD-solderable part can be realized. This makes it possible to flexibly equip the switching units 260 simultaneously with other SMD parts such as LEDs, resistors, diodes, etc. on the circuit substrate 110 in an assembly process using a conventional SMD assembly system. This reduces the overall manufacturing costs, makes the design of the key field of a keyboard 100 flexible and saves investments in machines, systems and tools.
  • Flat soldering pads or soldering areas 554 and 582 mean that the circuit substrate 110 is not dependent on the thickness and the key modules 120 can be fitted on switch foils, for example.
  • the button module 120 can be implemented with conventional plug-in connections and soldered as usual with wave soldering machines.
  • the upper part can be implemented as a single part in the form of the key cap 125 .
  • key caps 125 can be painted individually or as an entire key field, for example, and then inscribed with any country variants using a laser process.
  • the upper part can be provided as an intermediate piece 2025, which is designed as a standard part.
  • the key cap 125 can then be implemented as a simple shell and snapped onto the intermediate piece 2025. In this case, an inscription can take place as previously described.
  • button symbols can be produced using two-component technology, for example. Country variants are switched over by exchanging key caps 125.
  • the key cap 125 and/or the intermediate piece 2025 can be provided by the customer.
  • the stabilizer bracket 2190 or key stabilizer can be implemented inexpensively.
  • a round wire bent into a U-shape can be used as the stabilizer bracket 2190 .
  • the central part of the stabilizer bracket 2190 is snapped into the key cap 125 or into the intermediate piece 2025 and is thereby supported in a rotatable manner by means of rotary hinges.
  • the carrier element 250 is formed with two additional straps in the form of the anchoring sections 2156 .
  • Each anchoring portion 2156 includes, among other things, an angled portion one bore each for one leg of the stabilizer bar 2190. During assembly, the legs of the stabilizer bracket 2190 are inserted into the holes in the.
  • the anchoring portions 2156 can additionally be soldered to other soldering pads of the circuit substrate 110 .
  • the stabilizer bracket 2190 can be used to provide multiple mechanics for elongated keys and protection against torque and bending as well as lateral stability.
  • the anchoring sections 2156 can, for example, be stamped together with the carrier element 250 .
  • the button module 120 can be constructed according to the modular principle.
  • the at least one spring element 240 has a function of decoupling the upper part 125 and/or 2020 and a function of enabling a play-free, uniform movement of the upper part 125 and/or 2020.
  • An embodiment of the wing elements 230 and the carrier element 250 as metal parts offers the advantage that a metal construction is stiff and inexpensive.
  • the force-displacement curve during an actuation has a maximum after a minimum actuation travel and then an almost linearly decreasing curve up to a peak point up to contact between the at least one spring element 240 and the cams 1928 and/or 1978.
  • an embodiment includes an "and/or" link between a first feature and a second feature, this can be read in such a way that the embodiment according to one embodiment includes both the first feature and the second feature and according to a further embodiment either only the first Feature or has only the second feature.

Landscapes

  • Push-Button Switches (AREA)
  • Input From Keyboards Or The Like (AREA)

Claims (15)

  1. Module de touche (120) pour un clavier (100), le module de touche (120) comprenant:
    un premier élément d'aile (230) et un second élément d'aile (230) pour guider un mouvement du module de touches (120) lors de l'actionnement, chaque élément d'aile (230) comprenant une barre (1335), un premier bras (1337) et un second bras (1339), les bras (1337, 1339) s'étendant à l'écart de la barre (1335), une partie de montage (232) étant formée sur la barre (1335), une première partie de support (234) pour supporter l'élément d'aile (230) étant formée sur le premier bras (1337), une seconde partie de support (234) pour supporter l'élément d'aile (230) étant formée sur le second bras (1339), le premier élément d'aile (230) et le second élément d'aile (230) étant accouplables mécaniquement l'un à l'autre;
    au moins un élément de ressort (240) pour fournir une force de réinitialisation lors de l'actionnement du module de clé (120), le au moins un élément de ressort (240) étant fixable sur la partie de montage (232) du premier élément d'aile (230) et la partie de montage (232) du second élément d'aile (230), le au moins un élément de ressort (240) étant formé comme un ressort de tension;
    un élément de support (250) pour supporter les éléments d'aile (230), une pluralité de parties de logement (252) pour loger les parties de support (234) des éléments d'aile (230) étant formées dans l'élément de support (250);
    caractérisé en ce que le module de touche (120) comprend:
    au moins une came (1928, 1978) pour déformer le au moins un élément de ressort (240) dans un état actionné du module de touche (120).
  2. Module de touche (120) selon la revendication 1, selon lequel chaque élément d'aile (230) comprend des parties d'accouplement (731, 733) pour accoupler mécaniquement les éléments d'aile (230) les uns aux autres, une première partie d'accouplement (731) étant formée à une extrémité du premier bras (1337) de chaque élément d'aile (230), une seconde partie d'accouplement (733) étant formée à une extrémité du second bras (1339) de chaque élément d'aile (230).
  3. Module de touche (120) selon la revendication 2, selon lequel la première partie d'accouplement (731) et la seconde partie d'accouplement (733) sont formées différemment, la première partie d'accouplement (731) du premier élément d'aile (230) étant accouplable à la seconde partie d'accouplement (733) du second élément d'aile (230), et la seconde partie d'accouplement (733) du premier élément d'aile (230) étant accouplable à la première partie d'accouplement (731) du second élément d'aile (230).
  4. Module de touche (120) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 à 3, selon lequel la première partie d'accouplement (731) est formée comme une liaison et la deuxième partie d'accouplement (733) est formée comme une partie saillante, ou selon lequel la première partie d'accouplement (731) et la deuxième partie d'accouplement (733) sont formées comme des dents.
  5. Module de touche (120) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, selon lequel le premier élément d'aile (230) et le deuxième élément d'aile (230) sont formés identiques l'un à l'autre, et/ou chaque élément d'aile (230) est formé d'un seul tenant, et/ou chaque élément d'aile (230) est formé d'un matériau métallique.
  6. Module de touche (120) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, selon lequel chaque élément d'aile (230) comprend au moins une portion de connexion (236, 238) pour connecter l'élément d'aile (230) à une partie supérieure (125; 2025) pour le module de touche (120), la partie supérieure (125; 2025) comprenant un capuchon de touche (125) ou est accouplable à un capuchon de touche (125), la au moins une partie de connexion (236, 238) étant formée comme une poutre élastiquement déformable (236) ou comme une poutre élastiquement déformable (236) avec une partie d'extrémité (238) pliée dans une région de zone de base de la barre (1335).
  7. Module de touche (120) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, selon lequel l'élément de support (250) comprend des surfaces de soudure (554) ou des broches de connexion pour fixer l'élément de support (250) à un substrat de circuit (110) du clavier (100), et/ou selon lequel l'élément de support (250) est formé d'un matériau métallique.
  8. Module de touche (120) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, selon lequel l'élément de support (250) comprend au moins une partie d'ancrage (2156) pour ancrer un support de stabilisation (2190) pour stabiliser une partie supérieure (125; 2025) pour le module de touche (120), à condition que cette revendication ne se réfère pas à une combinaison de caractéristiques comprenant les caractéristiques de la revendication 6, ou pour stabiliser la partie supérieure (125; 2025), à condition que cette revendication se réfère à une combinaison de caractéristiques comprenant les caractéristiques de la revendication 6, au regard des moments de torsion et des moments de flexion.
  9. Module de touche (120) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, selon lequel l'au moins une came (1928, 1978) est formée sur l'élément de support (250), sur une unité de commutation (260) et/ou sur une partie supérieure (125; 2025) pour le module de touche (120), à condition que cette revendication ne se réfère pas à une combinaison de caractéristiques comprenant les caractéristiques de la revendication 8, ou sur la partie supérieure (125; 2025), à condition que cette revendication se réfère à une combinaison de caractéristiques comprenant les caractéristiques de la revendication 8, la partie supérieure (125; 2025) comprenant un capuchon de touche (125) ou étant accouplable avec un capuchon de touche (125).
  10. Module de touche (120) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, avec une unité de commutation (260), à condition que cette revendication ne se réfère pas à la revendication 9, l'unité de commutation (260) comprenant un boîtier (270) et un dispositif de contact (280) disposé au moins partiellement dans le boîtier (270) pour établir un contact électrique lors de l'actionnement du module de touche (120), le dispositif de contact (280) comprenant une pièce de contact fixe (1482) avec un premier contact (1583) et un contacteur (1484) avec une première pince à ressort (1486) portant un second contact (1585) et/ou une seconde pince à ressort (2387) pour produire un son d'actionnement et/ou au moins une partie d'actionnement (1488), le contacteur (1484) étant formé d'un seul tenant.
  11. Module de touche (120) selon la revendication 10, selon lequel le boîtier (270) est formé d'un matériau transparent ou opaque au moins dans une sous-section (1376) et/ou comme au moins une lentille au moins dans une sous-section (1376), et/ou selon lequel le boîtier (270) comprend une baie de réception (574) pour une source de lumière, et/ou selon lequel au moins une rainure (272) est formée dans le boîtier (270) pour recevoir au moins une sous-section du au moins un élément de ressort (240) dans un état actionné du module de touche (120).
  12. Module de touche (120) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 10 à 11, selon lequel le dispositif de contact (280) comprend des surfaces de soudure (582) ou des broches de connexion pour fixer l'unité de commutation (260) à un substrat de circuit (110) du clavier (100), et/ou selon lequel le dispositif de contact (280) est formé pour établir le contact électrique en produisant un frottement entre le premier contact (1583) et le deuxième contact (1585).
  13. Module de touche (120) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 10 à 12, selon lequel le boîtier (270) comprend une ouverture d'actionnement (2371) pour dégager l'au moins une partie d'actionnement (1488) du dispositif de contact (280) et/ou une partie de déviation (3373) pour dévier la deuxième pince à ressort (2387) du dispositif de contact (280) lors de l'actionnement du module de touche (120), la partie de déviation (3373) étant formée pour être inclinée obliquement par rapport au mouvement du module de touche (120) lors de l'actionnement.
  14. Module de touche (120) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 10 à 13, avec un actionneur auxiliaire (2392) pour actionner le dispositif de contact (280), le boîtier (270) comprenant au moins une partie de maintien (2375) pour maintenir l'actionneur auxiliaire (2392), l'actionneur auxiliaire (2392) comprenant au moins une partie de fixation (2794) pour fixer de manière mobile l'actionneur auxiliaire (2392) à la au moins une partie de maintien (2375) du boîtier (270) et/ou au moins un nez (2796) pour dévier la première pince à ressort (1486) et/ou la deuxième pince à ressort (2387) du dispositif de contact (280) lors de l'actionnement du module touche (120), et/ou l'actionneur auxiliaire (2392) comprenant au moins une partie de fixation (2798) pour fixer l'actionneur auxiliaire (2392) au premier élément d'aile (230) ou au second élément d'aile (230).
  15. Clavier (100), le clavier (100) comprenant:
    au moins un module de touche (120) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes; et
    un substrat de circuit (110), le au moins un module de touche (120) étant disposé sur le substrat de circuit (110).
EP18746187.6A 2017-10-30 2018-07-27 Module de touches pour clavier et clavier Active EP3704725B1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102017125373.4A DE102017125373A1 (de) 2017-10-30 2017-10-30 Tastenmodul für eine Tastatur und Tastatur
DE102018102604.8A DE102018102604A1 (de) 2018-02-06 2018-02-06 Tastenmodul für eine Tastatur und Tastatur
PCT/EP2018/070384 WO2019086152A1 (fr) 2017-10-30 2018-07-27 Module de touches pour clavier et clavier

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3704725A1 EP3704725A1 (fr) 2020-09-09
EP3704725B1 true EP3704725B1 (fr) 2022-03-23

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP18746187.6A Active EP3704725B1 (fr) 2017-10-30 2018-07-27 Module de touches pour clavier et clavier

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (1) US11257635B2 (fr)
EP (1) EP3704725B1 (fr)
CN (1) CN110199369B (fr)
WO (1) WO2019086152A1 (fr)

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US11770123B2 (en) 2018-01-05 2023-09-26 Darfon Electronics Corp. Optical keyswitch comprising a keycap having a light transmission area and a keycap projection area projected on a circuit board
TWI699796B (zh) * 2019-06-25 2020-07-21 達方電子股份有限公司 按鍵開關
DE102020122745B4 (de) 2020-08-31 2022-03-31 Cherry Europe Gmbh Halterungsbauteil für Stabilisatorbügel und Stabilisator-System zur Stabilisierung einer Tastenkappe einer Tastatur, Stabilisator-Set und Tastatur
US11721500B2 (en) 2021-04-07 2023-08-08 Darfon Electronics Corp. Keyswitch assembly and support mechanism thereof
US11735379B2 (en) 2021-04-07 2023-08-22 Darfon Electronics Corp. Keyswitch assembly
CN116031094A (zh) * 2021-10-25 2023-04-28 光宝科技股份有限公司 按键结构
US11978598B2 (en) 2021-12-16 2024-05-07 Darfon Electronics Corp. Keyswitch structure and lift mechanism thereof
TWI802498B (zh) 2021-12-16 2023-05-11 達方電子股份有限公司 按鍵結構及其升降機構
US11923159B2 (en) 2021-12-16 2024-03-05 Darfon Electronics Corp. Keyswitch structure and keycap support mechanism thereof

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TW484152B (en) * 2000-01-07 2002-04-21 Brother Ind Ltd Key switch device, keyboard having key board and electronic equipment having key board
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JP4562576B2 (ja) 2004-07-01 2010-10-13 富士通コンポーネント株式会社 キースイッチ装置、キーボード及びキースイッチ組立治具
TWI293151B (en) * 2005-07-21 2008-02-01 Darfon Electronics Corp Key structures
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20200294733A1 (en) 2020-09-17
WO2019086152A1 (fr) 2019-05-09
US11257635B2 (en) 2022-02-22
CN110199369A (zh) 2019-09-03
EP3704725A1 (fr) 2020-09-09
CN110199369B (zh) 2021-07-09

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