EP0725970A1 - Clavier plat de saisie pour appareils de traitement de donnees ou similaires et son procede de fabrication - Google Patents

Clavier plat de saisie pour appareils de traitement de donnees ou similaires et son procede de fabrication

Info

Publication number
EP0725970A1
EP0725970A1 EP95900605A EP95900605A EP0725970A1 EP 0725970 A1 EP0725970 A1 EP 0725970A1 EP 95900605 A EP95900605 A EP 95900605A EP 95900605 A EP95900605 A EP 95900605A EP 0725970 A1 EP0725970 A1 EP 0725970A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
input keyboard
flat input
layer
switching function
keyboard according
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.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP95900605A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Matthias-Reinhard Koehn
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.)
Marketing Partners Gesellschaft fur Marketing-Projecting und Marketing-Services Mbh
Original Assignee
Marketing Partners Gesellschaft fur Marketing-Projecting und Marketing-Services Mbh
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
Priority claimed from DE19939316733 external-priority patent/DE9316733U1/de
Application filed by Marketing Partners Gesellschaft fur Marketing-Projecting und Marketing-Services Mbh filed Critical Marketing Partners Gesellschaft fur Marketing-Projecting und Marketing-Services Mbh
Publication of EP0725970A1 publication Critical patent/EP0725970A1/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
    • G06F3/033—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor
    • G06F3/039—Accessories therefor, e.g. mouse pads
    • G06F3/0395—Mouse pads
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
    • G06F3/0202—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
    • G06F3/0202—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device
    • G06F3/0221—Arrangements for reducing keyboard size for transport or storage, e.g. foldable keyboards, keyboards with collapsible keys
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
    • G06F3/033—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor
    • 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
    • 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
    • H01H13/703—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 spacers between contact carrying layers
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2207/00—Connections
    • H01H2207/022—Plug
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2207/00—Connections
    • H01H2207/032—Surface mounted component
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2207/00—Connections
    • H01H2207/048—Inductive or infrared coupling
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2209/00—Layers
    • H01H2209/024—Properties of the substrate
    • H01H2209/03—Properties of the substrate elastomeric
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2209/00—Layers
    • H01H2209/046—Properties of the spacer
    • H01H2209/052—Properties of the spacer elastomeric
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2209/00—Layers
    • H01H2209/068—Properties of the membrane
    • H01H2209/074—Properties of the membrane elastomeric
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2217/00—Facilitation of operation; Human engineering
    • H01H2217/016—Pressure reduction membrane; Spreader layer
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2223/00—Casings
    • H01H2223/046—Casings convertible
    • H01H2223/052—Casings convertible reductible in size, e.g. for transportation

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a flat input keyboard for data processing devices or the like, which from the side facing away from the operating side successively a support layer, an electrical switching function system with a keyboard pattern corresponding electrical contact points, a buffer layer and a flexible elastic provided on the operating side facing away from the switching function system with the keyboard pattern Cover layer, wherein the support layer, the switching function system, the buffer layer and the cover layer are connected to each other at least along the circumferential edge, characterized in that the switching function system is designed to be permanently flexible by forming film segments of at least one film around the roll axis (s) ; and that the switching function system is provided with a one-piece and seamless casing by connecting the support layer and the buffer layer at the edge and through flow openings in the switching function system, for this purpose the full-surface connection of the buffer layer and the top layer, and methods for producing such a flat input keyboard.
  • the switching function system to which evaluation electronics are assigned, generally consists of three film layers laminated on top of one another, namely a first contact film, a second contact film and a spacer film arranged between them, which is usually punched and has openings at the intended contact points.
  • the two contact foils preferably have printed layers of conductive lacquer on the side facing the spacer foil. It can be provided that one of the two contact foils carries all the electrical conductor tracks. These are then often designed with the contact surfaces so that here two conductor track ends protrude into one another in a comb-like manner. The other contact foil is attached to the The contact points then have a complete print made of conductive varnish. However, it can also be provided that the two contact foils carry conductor tracks, which can, if necessary, reduce the number of conductor track crossings on one of the contact foils.
  • the contact foils like the spacer foil, generally consist of plastic material.
  • the contact film closest to the cover layer bends at the pressure point over the edges of the corresponding punched-out portions of the spacer film and touches the contact surface of the lower contact film.
  • the contact creates an electrically conductive connection between the upper and lower contact points.
  • electrical current can flow over the conductor tracks of the upper contact foil during the connection, and can be used as a signal to evaluate the key press.
  • keyboards For data entry on data processing devices, e.g. B. also in so-called notebook computers, in addition to flat input keyboards of the type described above, other keyboards can be used, which are comparable in terms of the key shape and arrangement of a typewriter keyboard. If necessary, individual keys with a relatively large key stroke are provided. All keyboards used so far have a fixed housing or at least a rigid base plate. This does not apply to rubber keyboards, which however do not follow the principle of membrane keyboards used here.
  • the conventional keyboards have a number of disadvantages.
  • the keyboard takes up a lot of space in relation to the other functional units of the computer and is relatively heavy.
  • the keyboard reduced to the extent that it is adapted to the size of the small computer, it becomes ergonomically unwieldy.
  • the conventional keyboards are inherently rigid and therefore bulky when being transported, moved and stowed away.
  • contact security is generally guaranteed by the contact of dome-shaped designer membrane keys. These usually offer considerable resistance to finger pressure and thus prevent pleasant and quick keyboard operation.
  • Membrane keyboards without dome embossing do not generate any tactile feedback and therefore do not indicate to the user that the key has been triggered.
  • the tactile feedback in this subject of the invention is generated by the nature of the elastic plastic.
  • the key shapes possible here are to be equated with the key shapes of mechanical keyboards, so that the keying itself is much easier than with conventional membrane keyboards.
  • the height of mechanical keyboards is generally ergonomically unfavorable for the hand position if no contact surfaces are created for the palm of the hand. Furthermore, the keyboard hampers work with other work equipment due to its height at the workplace, unless flat input keyboards of the type described are used, but with other disadvantages, such as unfavorable ergonomic handling. Such keyboards are often also not protected against unintentional key release, which in some user programs can have uncontrollable consequences up to the loss of data. In addition, generate mechanical
  • Keyboards make significant tactile noises that can have a negative impact on the environment.
  • a layout that has been changed compared to DIN 2137 and has significantly shorter key spacing and smaller keys is often used, with the ease of use suffering particularly badly. All keyboards are prone to contamination and
  • the subject of the invention is through the one-piece
  • the keyboard is also easy to clean, even with a steam jet.
  • the invention has for its object a
  • this object is achieved in that at least one of the foils of the switching function system consists of foil segments, the overlay layer, buffer layer, cover layer and the peripheral edge jointly form an elastic jacket and thus the switching function system is permanently flexible and watertight about the roll axis (s).
  • the switching function system has a switching function system which, following the support layer, has in succession a first contact film, provided at least in regions on the side facing the support layer, with an electrically conductive first contact layer, one with openings in accordance with the keyboard pattern provided spacer and a second contact film provided on the side facing the spacer at least in regions with an electrically conductive second contact layer.
  • an elastically flexible buffer layer is arranged between the second contact film and the cover layer.
  • the invention also provides that the spacing device consists at least partially of discrete spacing elements surrounding the keyboard pattern of corresponding contact points.
  • Spacing elements are essentially annular.
  • the invention also proposes that one of the contact foils consists at least in regions of discrete contact regions corresponding to the spacer elements.
  • the contact areas are essentially circular.
  • one of the contact foils carries all discrete electrical conductor tracks.
  • the invention also proposes that the conductor tracks protrude into one another at the contact points corresponding to the keyboard pattern.
  • the invention also provides that the electrical contact points of the contact foils are arranged in rows parallel to the roll axis.
  • the invention provides that at least one of the foils consists of foil segments which either enclose contact areas or contact openings and form air channels. It is also provided that more than one film, in the extreme case all films of the switching function system, consist of film segments.
  • the segmentation permanently prevents the foils from warping when the switching function system is bent.
  • the invention also provides that the overlay, the
  • the buffer layer and the cover layer are substantially elongated; and that the support layer has two substantially rigid first edge webs parallel to the roll axis.
  • the invention also proposes that the first edge webs can be releasably connected to the support layer, the switching function system, the buffer layer and the cover layer. It can also be provided that at least the second edge webs are designed to be flexible about the roll axis.
  • both edge webs can be fixed components of the casing.
  • part of the buffer layer and the keyboard pattern of the cover layer is designed as an operating surface for a computer mouse.
  • the invention is also characterized by a detachable plug connection for connection to the data processing device or the like.
  • the invention also provides that the plug connection is integrated in one of the edge webs.
  • the end of the connecting cable can be firmly enclosed in one of the edge webs.
  • control unit is integrated in one of the edge webs e_-r_e.
  • control unit is designed as an SMD assembly.
  • an illumination device illuminating the keyboard pattern from the edge is integrated in at least one of the edge webs.
  • the invention proposes that optical display devices are integrated in part of the keyboard pattern of the cover layer or in the edge webs.
  • the invention proposes that in a part of
  • Keyboard pattern of the top layer or acoustic display devices are integrated in the edge webs.
  • the invention proposes that transmitter or receiver devices for digital signals are integrated in part of the keyboard pattern of the cover layer, in the buffer layer or in the edge webs.
  • the invention proposes that energy sources are integrated in a part of the keyboard pattern of the cover layer, in the buffer layer, in the peripheral edge web or in the edge webs.
  • the invention is further characterized by an accessory base designed as a carrier and / or base plate for receiving the casing and possibly the edge webs.
  • the base plate has on its upper side a recess provided with a flat support surface for the positive reception of the support layer and / or the support plate and possibly the edge webs.
  • the invention also provides that the switching function system has a sensor keyboard that is essentially free of mechanically movable functional elements.
  • the switching function system has a short-stroke keyboard with short-stroke keys firmly attached to a flexible circuit board or the like.
  • the invention is characterized by expanded air chambers corresponding to the keyboard pattern for use under extreme pressure conditions and the like.
  • the switching function system is cast in elastic plastic material, which forms in one piece the support layer, the buffer layer, the cover layer and a peripheral edge web that connects the switching function system and surrounds it.
  • the invention also provides that the support layer, the buffer layer and the cover layer through a number of flow openings of the switching function system penetrating connecting webs while fixing the Relative position of the functional elements of the switching function system are interconnected.
  • the method according to the invention for producing such a keyboard is characterized in that the switching function system is cast into plastic material to produce the overlay layer, the buffer layer, the cover layer and a continuous peripheral edge web including the edge webs connecting them in one piece.
  • the invention proposes that elastically curing plastic material is used in this method.
  • thermoplastic or thermosetting plastics or steaming in a closed mold can also be used.
  • the invention provides that the pouring takes place by means of a liquid pourable and then curable elastomeric material.
  • the invention also provides that in a casting mold whose internal dimensions measured in the plane of its bottom surface exceed the external dimensions of the switching function system on all sides by the width of the peripheral edge web to be produced, the cover layer and the buffer layer are first poured and at least partially hardened by a first layer of the Plastic material are provided; that the switching function system is then introduced into the casting mold while the at least partially hardened cover layer and buffer layer are left in the casting mold and is placed on the support plate Lcht while leaving a peripheral strip corresponding to the width of the peripheral edge web to be produced; that further liquid pourable plastic material is then poured on at a height corresponding to the thickness of the overlay layer to be produced while filling the peripheral edge strip and covering the switching function system; that thereupon the final hardening of the entire plastic material takes place; and that the flat input keyboard, which is tightly enclosed on all sides by the plastic material, is then removed from the casting mold.
  • cover layer is provided with the keyboard pattern after the casting or spraying or steaming and curing and, if appropriate, demolding.
  • the invention also proposes that a switching function system is used which has a plurality of openings which are open both on the side of the support layer to be produced and on the side of the cover and buffer layer to be produced; and that the openings are poured out with the jacket material, whereby after hardening an elastic, one-piece spatial plastic matrix is produced which penetrates the switching function system and fixes its functional elements in a spatially defined relative position, which consists of the support layer, the buffer layer, the cover layer, the peripheral edge web and There are connecting webs which connect the support layer, the buffer layer and the cover layer through the openings in the switching function system.
  • polyurethane is used as the plastic material.
  • the invention also provides that silicone is used as the plastic material.
  • a development of the method according to the invention for producing an essentially elongated flat input keyboard with a roll axis parallel to one of the sides is characterized in that the sections of the peripheral edge web parallel to the roll axis are essentially stiff, while the sections of the peripheral edge web perpendicular to the bending or rolling axis are essentially flexible be formed. It can be provided that the stiff and the flexible portions of the peripheral edge web is given different thickness.
  • the invention may also suggest that different plastic materials be used for the rigid and flexible sections of the peripheral edge web.
  • the invention also relates to a flat input keyboard produced by the method according to the invention.
  • the invention is based, among other things, on the knowledge that it is possible to remedy the disadvantages of the known keyboards and to create an ergonomically perfect keyboard with an optimal work surface and the smallest possible space requirement during transport by using an overall flexible flat input keyboard which is rolled up when not in use and then can be easily stowed away with the smallest space requirement.
  • a buffer layer is designed in such a way that it leads to better force distribution and a more pleasant tactile sensation.
  • Such a buffer layer is first mentioned in DE 3132484 AI. There the layer consists of foam and is glued to the cover film. This invention is based on the intention of producing the buffer layer and the cover layer in one piece with the formation of raised buttons.
  • the keyboard can, if necessary, be applied to correspondingly designed accessory bases, which act as a base plate or the like, in a non-positive or positive manner and releasably at any time.
  • the key input can be switched off or on again by pressing a specific key combination.
  • the flat input keyboard can of course also be used reliably on unplanned, solid surfaces.
  • an operating surface for any type of display can be integrated into the keyboard, for example LEDs and displays as well as for acoustic signal generators, energy sources and transmitting and receiving units for digital signals.
  • a casting process with liquid castable elastic, thermosetting or thermoplastic materials is used.
  • the switching function system is cast with this plastic material, whereby either the electronics for evaluating the keyboard matrix can already be cast in, or it can only be provided that the peripheral edge web produced in the casting process is penetrated by a supply line to the conductor tracks of the switching function system.
  • the casting process can be carried out, for example, in an open mold in such a way that first the cover layer and the buffer layer or the key side of the keyboard pattern is poured "upside down" on the flat input keyboard, so to speak, and hardens. Then the switching function system is also placed upside down on the hardened layer forming the cover layer, the edges of the first cast layer remaining open to the side of the switching function system. Then a second layer of the liquid plastic material is poured into the mold via the switching function system.
  • the open top can be covered with an adhesive or other suitable substances can be coated.
  • the last cast layer connects either through the material properties of the plastic material used or through the adhesion mediation with the plastic material already in the casting mold in such a way that a watertight and tear-resistant connection is created.
  • the casting process ensures that no casting material can penetrate the electrical contact points. In the case of contact foil systems, this can be achieved by gluing, in the case of short-stroke keys by appropriate design consideration of rubber seals or the like.
  • the keyboard can be provided in any arrangement with predetermined bending lines which are parallel to the intended roll axis, the roll axis not necessarily having to be parallel to one of the side edges of the keyboard.
  • These predetermined bending lines can in particular also be generated by lamellar row arrangement of film segments.
  • Edge webs are at least partially constructed from telescopic elements or else from individual elements connected by tensioning wires, whereby a rigid frame can be generated in the use state of the flat input keyboard, while stowing in the transport state can take place with the smallest possible space requirement.
  • Figure l shows a first simplified embodiment of a flat input keyboard according to the invention in a perspective exploded view
  • Figure 2 a second simplified embodiment of a flat input keyboard according to the invention in a perspective exploded view
  • Figure 3 shows a third simplified embodiment of a flat input keyboard according to the invention in section perpendicular to the keyboard plane;
  • FIG. 4 shows the exemplary embodiment of a flat input keyboard according to the invention shown in FIG. 3 in a perspective view, partially cut open, the first contact foil and the spacer foil being embodied here in individual elements;
  • FIG. 5 shows a fourth exemplary embodiment of a part of a flat input keyboard according to the invention, specifically in FIG. 5 a) a section along the line a) - a) of FIG. 5 b) and in FIG. 5 b) the exemplary embodiment in plan view;
  • FIG. 6 shows the bending displacement in the case of a flat input keyboard according to FIG. 1 in section perpendicular to the roll axis;
  • FIG. 7 shows the bending displacement in the case of a flat input keyboard
  • the flat input keyboard according to the invention in the exemplary embodiment shown there has a flexible support layer 10 made of plastic material, a first contact film 12, which has a first contact layer 14 in the form of discrete electrical conductor tracks, a spacer film 16, which is flexible and bears a number of openings 18 corresponding to a keyboard pattern, a second contact foil 20 which is provided with a second electrical contact layer 22 in the form of discrete electrical conductor tracks and likewise consists of elastic, flexible plastic material, a flexible, elastic buffer layer 24 made of plastic material and a cover layer 26 made of elastic plastic, which is provided with the keyboard pattern 28.
  • the layers described above can be held together along the narrower sides by rigid edge webs 30, 32.
  • a detachable plug connection 34 enables connection to a data processing device, e.g. B. a notebook computer.
  • the representation of the switching function system (12, 16, 20) is simplified.
  • the foils are used in conventional membrane keyboards.
  • the cover layer is shown here as a film, as is customary when using the design films with conventional membrane keyboards.
  • the detachability of edge webs and cables represents an alternative implementation.
  • the edge web 30 has an integrated lighting device 36 which can illuminate the keyboard pattern 28 from the side.
  • FIG. 2 shows that a control unit 38 is integrated there near the edge web 30 in the edge region of the flat input keyboard.
  • the flexible part of the flat input keyboard which ends on its underside with the support layer 10, can be inserted in a form-fitting manner in a thin, rigid carrier plate 40, onto which the edge webs 30, 32 can be attached.
  • the carrier plate 40 in turn can be inserted in a form-fitting manner in a recess 42 in a base plate 44.
  • part of the keyboard pattern 28 is designed as an operating surface for a computer mouse 46.
  • the integration of optical and acoustic reproduction units is also conceivable here.
  • the flat input keyboard according to the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2 is used as follows:
  • the extremely flat flat input keyboard according to the invention is so flexible that it is about a roll axis lying parallel to the edge webs 30, 32 in FIGS can be rolled up and then stowed away with minimal space requirements.
  • the flat input keyboard according to the invention combines improved mobility compared to conventional keyboards due to low weight and flexibility with the possibility of nevertheless being able to use a complete keyboard with a common layout and normal DIN standard key spacing.
  • the flat design enables the flat input keyboard to remain on the desk, even if other work is to be carried out in the area of the flat input keyboard.
  • the flat input keyboard can be switched off using at least one special key combination.
  • the keyboard has a modular structure.
  • the actual flat input keyboard consisting of the support layer 10, the first contact film 20, the buffer layer 24 and the cover layer 26, can be fixed with the aid of the fixed edge webs 30 u. 32, which are shaped accordingly, are fastened in a form-fitting manner on different bases, for example al ⁇ o of the carrier plate 40 or also directly or, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, indirectly, on the base plate 44 or the like.
  • At least two different bases are provided as accessories.
  • One consists of the simple, flat and thin, but rigid support plate 40, preferably made of plastic, which serves as a base in the case of uneven surfaces Work surfaces can be used mobile.
  • the second base is a larger, firmer component in the form of the base plate 44, in the recess 42 of which the flat input keyboard can be inserted together with the carrier plate 40 described above.
  • This second base that is to say the base plate 44, is provided for stationary use on a desk or the like.
  • the electronic control unit 38 with the plug connection representing an electrical line connection is attached as a flat functional unit on the side of the keyboard within the edge area thereof.
  • the flat input keyboard according to the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2 can be transported in a very space-saving and simple manner.
  • the actual keyboard can be separated from the data processing device by the detachable plug connection 34 on the side of the keyboard.
  • the extremely flat design of the flat input keyboard enables an ergonomically favorable hand position during operation without additional design effort, since the palms can be placed loosely in front of the keyboard. There is no need to raise your hands to reach the buttons.
  • Arranged between the cover layer 26 and the switching function system is the buffer layer 24, which transfers the finger pressure that is exerted on the cover layer 1 C at the locations specified by the keyboard pattern 28 to the switching function system.
  • the finger pressure required to release the keys is therefore low, which enables fast, quiet, and pleasant contact-safe operation of the keyboard. Otherwise, it is of course possible without further ado, the keyboard pattern 28 and the others Adapting the design of modules to the needs of the user, as well as the overall design of the cover layer 26.
  • the support layer 10 is made of castable plastic material, whereupon the first contact film 12, the spacer film 16, the second contact film 20 and the buffer and cover layer 26 are made of the same plastic material exists as the support layer 10, connect.
  • the support layer 10 and the cover layer 26 are integrally connected to one another by a circumferential peripheral edge web 48 in the casting process, which also includes the edge webs 30 u. 32 ( Figure 3) integrated.
  • the cover layer 26 is no longer shown as a film but has raised buttons. Nevertheless, the surface of the cover layer is closed.
  • the first contact film 12 and the spacer film 16 are designed in the form of individual elements, as will be explained further below with reference to the embodiment of FIG. 5, without this being related to the embodiment of FIG. 4 Presentation needed.
  • Flow openings 19 can be seen in the second contact film 20, which are penetrated by plastic material during the manufacture of the flat input keyboard and thus connect and secure the individual functional layers of the flat input keyboard in their relative positions.
  • the flow openings are arranged in such a way that they lie in the spaces between the film segments of the spacer film and the first contact film.
  • the film segments of the spacer film not only form the contact openings 18 but also form air channels between the contact openings, through which air displaced by the touch of the contact openings in the air channels can flow in and, after loosening the pressure, can also flow back again.
  • the flat input keyboard according to FIGS. 3 and 4 is produced as follows: First, a polyurethane mixture is filled into a suitably shaped flat mold, which is open at the top, in the thickness corresponding to the manufacture of the cover layer 26, buffer layer 24 and edge webs 30. This layer is then hardened. Then the switching function system consisting of the first contact film 12, the spacer film 16 and the second contact film 20 is placed upside down on the layer thus produced. Subsequently, a further hardenable polyurethane mixture is poured in in an amount sufficient to produce the support layer 10 on the one hand and the peripheral edge web 48 on the other hand.
  • connecting webs are formed between the buffer layer 24 and the support layer 10, which permanently guarantee a stable position of the switching function system 12, 16, 20.
  • care is naturally taken to ensure that a peripheral strip of the casting mold corresponding to the peripheral edge web 48 to be produced is left free all around, all dosing and positioning processes being able to take place under suitable electronic control or by robots or the like.
  • the flat input keyboard which has not yet been provided with the keyboard pattern 28 in this state, is removed from the mold. Then z. B. da ⁇ keyboard pattern 28 applied to the cover layer 26 in the screen printing process. After usual testing etc. the flat input keyboard is ready for dispatch.
  • the contact foil 12 consisting of flexible plastic material, is formed continuously. It carries discrete electrical conductor tracks, which represent the first contact layer 14.
  • the spacer film 16 consists only of
  • the second contact foil 20 is also not continuous, but the shape of the diameter of the outer foil of the spacer foil sections is
  • Spacer film 16 corresponding circular surfaces, with circular electrical contacts being applied as the second contact layer 22 on the side facing the first contact layer 14.
  • FIGS. 6 and 7 The different ratios that result when bending or rolling the flat input keyboards according to FIGS. 1 and 2 on the one hand and FIG. 5 on the other hand are compared in FIGS. 6 and 7:
  • FIG. 6 shows that because of the different bending radii R1, for the first contact film 12, R2 for a neutral fiber 50, which lies approximately centrally in the spacer film 16 formed there over the entire surface, and R3 for the second, likewise continuously formed contact film 20, in each case thus corresponding to the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, there is a tendency to the relative length shift of the individual films.
  • R1 for the first contact film 12
  • R2 for a neutral fiber 50
  • R3 for the second, likewise continuously formed contact film 20
  • Length difference occur are not absorbed by the elasticity of the film material, so that the adhesive layers loosen under unfavorable circumstances, at least permanently shift them, and can impair the function of the system.
  • the film segments 17 maintain the functionality and dimensional accuracy of the switching function system 12, 16, 20 despite the small bending radii and large number of bending processes.
  • this individual film represents the first contact film 12 provided with the first contact layer 14 in the form of discrete conductor tracks.
  • the conditions could of course also be reversed, namely by the second contact film 20 being continuous and instead the first contact foil 12 would be constructed from discrete contact foil sections.
  • the contact points including foil segments 17 are applied as spacer foil 16.
  • the segments enclose the area of the contact point and create a contact area of a defined width on the outside around this contact area.
  • the film segments 17 form the. Spacer film 16 between the contact openings 18, those air channels which ensure sufficient pressure equalization in the contact openings in the long term.
  • the comb-shaped mutually protruding conductor track ends of the first contact layer 14 opposite the first contact film 12 a layer of conductive material corresponding to the contact area size is applied as a component of the second contact layer 22 consisting of these discrete circular areas.
  • the loaded contact foil 20 bends at the pressure point over the edges of the spacing foil portion 16 and touches the opposite contact layer 14 of the first contact foil 12.
  • the contact provides an electrically conductive connection between the comb ends of the conductor tracks of the first contact layer 14 on the first contact foil 12 ago, which is used for evaluating the key pressure.
  • the spacer film sections 16 are firmly glued to the first contact film 12, which carries the electrical contact tracks 14 as the first contact layer 14, and to the contact film sections 20.
  • Spacer film section 16 and contact film section 20 can cover both a single contact point and a plurality of combined contact points.
  • the composite more appropriately consists of strips which can then be applied next to one another on the first contact film 12, the strip axis expediently containing air channels and lying parallel to the roll axis. This arrangement ensures that the entire composite system can be bent without the individual foils being able to shift relative to one another.
  • the length of a composite of the first contact foil 12, spacer foils 16 and the second contact foil section 20 is small enough in relation to the thickness of the foils so that even with smaller bending radii no large changes in length of the individual foil sections relative to one another result.

Abstract

Un clavier plat de saisie pour appareils de traitement de données ou similaires comprend successivement, depuis le côté opposé au côté d'utilisation, une couche de support (10), un système de commutation électrique (12, 16, 20) avec des points de contact électrique correspondants au dessin du clavier, une couche tampon (24) et une couche élastique flexible de couverture (26) pourvue d'un dessin de clavier (28) du côté d'utilisation. La couche de support, le système de commutation, la couche tampon et la couche de couverture sont mutuellement reliés au moins le long de leur circonférence. Le clavier plat de saisie se caractérise en ce que le système de commutation est flexible de manière permanente autour d'axes de roulement, étant donné qu'il est constitué de segments (17) composés d'au moins une feuille. Etant donné que la couche de support et la couche tampon sont reliées l'une à l'autre par leur circonférence, que le système de commutation est pourvu de passages de coulée (19) et que la couche tampon et la couche de couverture sont reliées l'une à l'autre sur toute leur surface, le système de commutation est pourvu d'une enveloppe (48) en une seule pièce sans soudures. L'invention concerne également un procédé de fabrication d'un tel clavier plat de saisie.
EP95900605A 1993-10-26 1994-10-25 Clavier plat de saisie pour appareils de traitement de donnees ou similaires et son procede de fabrication Withdrawn EP0725970A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE19939316733 DE9316733U1 (de) 1993-10-26 1993-10-26 Flexible Folientastatur mit modularem Aufbau
DE9316733U 1993-10-26
DE4424496A DE4424496A1 (de) 1993-10-26 1994-07-12 Flacheingabetastatur für Datenverarbeitungsgerät oder dergleichen sowie Verfahren zu ihrer Herstellung
DE4424496 1994-07-12
PCT/DE1994/001297 WO1995012208A2 (fr) 1993-10-26 1994-10-25 Clavier plat de saisie pour appareils de traitement de donnees ou similaires et son procede de fabrication

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0725970A1 true EP0725970A1 (fr) 1996-08-14

Family

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP95900605A Withdrawn EP0725970A1 (fr) 1993-10-26 1994-10-25 Clavier plat de saisie pour appareils de traitement de donnees ou similaires et son procede de fabrication

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (1) US5748114A (fr)
EP (1) EP0725970A1 (fr)
AU (1) AU8138794A (fr)
DE (1) DE4498145C1 (fr)
WO (1) WO1995012208A2 (fr)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO1995012208A2 (fr) 1995-05-04
DE4498145C1 (de) 2003-06-26
WO1995012208A3 (fr) 1995-08-10
AU8138794A (en) 1995-05-22
US5748114A (en) 1998-05-05

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