EP4318522A2 - Key module for a keyboard and keyboard - Google Patents

Abstract

A key module (120) for a keyboard is presented. The key module (120) has a guide device (230) for guiding a movement of the key module (120) during an actuation, at least one spring element (240) for providing a restoring force when the key module (120) is actuated, and a carrier element (250) for carrying that of the guide device (230) and a switching unit. The switching unit has a housing (270) and a contact device (280) arranged at least partially in the housing (270) for establishing an electrical contact when the key module (120) is actuated. The contact device (280) has a fixed contact piece with a first contact and a contact maker with a first spring tab carrying a second contact, a second spring tab for generating an actuation noise and/or at least one actuation section. The contactor is formed in one piece.

Description

The present invention relates to a key module for a keyboard and to a keyboard with at least one such key module.

Different key systems can be used for keyboards, such as those used in connection with computers.

The EP 1 612 821 A2 discloses a tactile switch, a keyboard and a tactile switch assembly jig.

Against this background, the present invention provides an improved key module for a keyboard and an improved keyboard according to the main claims. Advantageous refinements result from the subclaims and the following description.

According to embodiments of the approach described here, a switching unit or a switching mechanism can be provided for a key module, with such a switching unit being able to establish electrical contact and optionally additionally generating an actuation noise. The switching unit can, for example, enable the function of establishing electrical contact and, optionally, additional acoustic feedback. This can be achieved in particular by a contactor formed in one piece with at least one spring tab. In addition, for example, the switching unit can also be designed in conjunction with a suitable guide unit of the key module to provide a restoring force with regard to an actuation of the key module and, additionally or alternatively, to effect a specific force-path curve and make it adjustable.

A very flat mechanical switch module can advantageously be provided, for example for game applications or gaming applications, high-end office applications or office applications in the upper segment and the like. The switch module can be used, for example, in notebooks and flat computers Keyboards can be used. The electrical contact can be established reliably, and the force-distance curve of an actuation can be influenced by suitable design of the contact device. In addition, an actuation noise can optionally be implemented in a simple manner. The switching unit can enable the electrical function and optionally also the acoustic function, in particular by means of the contactor. Such a button module can, for example, also meet very flat dimensions requirements, such as 1 to 4 millimeters block size, in particular up to about 2 millimeter block size. A service life of the key module can also be achieved, which can be in the range of classic mechanical key modules, for example.

• eine Führungseinrichtung zum Führen einer Bewegung des Tastenmoduls bei einer Betätigung;
• ein Trägerelement zum Tragen der der Führungseinrichtung; und
• eine Schalteinheit, wobei die Schalteinheit ein Gehäuse und eine zumindest partiell in dem Gehäuse angeordnete Kontakteinrichtung zum Herstellen eines elektrischen Kontakts bei einer Betätigung des Tastenmoduls aufweist, wobei die Kontakteinrichtung ein Festkontaktstück mit einem ersten Kontakt und einen Kontaktgeber mit einer einen zweiten Kontakt tragenden ersten Federlasche und zusätzlich oder alternativ einer zweiten Federlasche zum Erzeugen eines Betätigungsgeräuschs und zusätzlich oder alternativ zumindest einem Betätigungsabschnitt aufweist, wobei der Kontaktgeber einstückig ausgeformt ist.

A key module for a keyboard is presented, the key module having the following features:

• a guide device for guiding a movement of the key module upon actuation;
• a support element for supporting the guide device; and
• a switching unit, wherein the switching unit has a housing and a contact device arranged at least partially in the housing for establishing an electrical contact when the key module is actuated, the contact device having a fixed contact piece with a first contact and a contactor with a first spring tab carrying a second contact and additionally or alternatively has a second spring tab for generating an actuation noise and additionally or alternatively at least one actuation section, wherein the contactor is formed in one piece.

The keyboard can be intended for a computer or the like, for example. The keyboard can have at least one key module. The key module can be part of a key or represent a key. One key module can therefore be provided per key. The button module can also be used as a mechanical buttons. The housing can have at least one wall or a wall section. The housing can be shaped as a hood, a cage or the like. The housing can have one part or several parts. The at least one actuation section can be pressed by an upper part of the button or an auxiliary actuator. The electrical contact can be established in a contact point between the first contact and the second contact. Each contact can be elongated and additionally or alternatively have a line-shaped contact area. A contact area of the first contact and a contact area of the second contact may intersect. Each contact area can extend obliquely to a longitudinal axis of the first spring tab. The second spring tab can have an actuating section that is angled, bent or curved. The second spring tab may be shaped to produce the actuation sound upon kickback against the housing or another part.

According to one embodiment, the contactor of the contact device can have the first spring tab carrying the second contact and the at least one actuating section. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that a reliable and robust switching unit with an electrical function can be implemented in a structurally simple and cost-neutral manner.

Alternatively, the contactor of the contact device can have the first spring tab carrying the second contact, the second spring tab for generating the actuation noise and the at least one actuation section. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that a reliable and robust switching unit with electrical function and acoustic function can be implemented in a structurally simple and cost-neutral manner.

According to one embodiment, 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 tab of the contact device when the key module is actuated. Here, the deflection section can be relative to the movement of the button module must be designed to be inclined at an angle when operated. The deflection section can be curved, slightly stepped, shaped as a knob or a cam or the like. The deflection section can be designed to cause a deflection or deflection of the second spring tab transversely or obliquely with respect to the movement of the key module during operation when the key module is actuated. An angle of inclination of the deflection section relative to the movement of the key module during actuation can be smaller than an angle of inclination of an angled or bent actuation section of the second spring tab. 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 tab can be achieved in order to cause the second spring tab to kick back for the purpose of generating noise.

The key module can also have an auxiliary actuator for actuating the contact device. Here, the housing can have at least one holding section for holding the auxiliary actuator. The auxiliary actuator can have at least one attachment section for movably attaching the auxiliary actuator to the at least one holding section of the housing. Additionally or alternatively, the auxiliary actuator can have at least one nose for deflecting the first spring tab and additionally or alternatively the second spring tab of the contact device when the key module is actuated. Using the mounting portion and the mounting portion, 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 can be shaped to generate the operating noise in the event of a kickback against the auxiliary actuator. The auxiliary actuator can have a nose for deflecting the first spring tab and additionally or alternatively the second spring tab or at least a first nose for deflecting the first spring tab and a second nose for deflecting the second spring tab. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that the contact device can be operated in a robust and simple manner, with one Design of the contactor with two spring tabs can be implemented in a structurally simple manner.

Furthermore, the auxiliary actuator can have at least one fixing section for fixing the auxiliary actuator to the guide device. The auxiliary actuator can be carried along or moved along in at least one direction of movement via the at least one fixing section when the key module is actuated by the guide device. The at least one fixing section can be shaped as a projection. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that when the key module is actuated, an electrical contact and additionally an integrated generation of the actuation noise can be achieved in a reliable and robust manner. This can also be achieved using a minimal number of components and in a structurally simple manner.

In addition, the contact device can have soldering surfaces or connection pins for attaching the switching unit to a circuit substrate of the keyboard. Additionally or alternatively, the contact device can be shaped to produce the electrical contact by generating friction between the first contact and the second contact. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that contact deterioration due to contamination by particles can be avoided.

The housing can also be formed at least in a partial section from a transparent or opaque material and additionally or alternatively at least in a partial 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 can be formed in the housing for receiving at least a partial section of at least one spring element for providing a restoring force when the key module is actuated in an actuated state of the key module. The at least one groove can also be referred to as a depression section, an elongated trough or a groove. The at least one lens can be designed to transmit light from a light source the top part of the key module and additionally or alternatively over the key cap. The at least one lens can be designed to focus or scatter light. For example, the at least one lens can be designed as an optical diffuser. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that lighting of the key can be achieved in a space-saving manner and, additionally or alternatively, a saving of installation space for the key module can be achieved by at least partially immersing the at least one spring element in the groove. In addition, the key module can support uniform and economical illumination of a key cap or a top part by a light source or a light source that can be integrated.

According to one embodiment, the carrier element may have soldering 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 key module can be attached directly to a circuit board or the like. Furthermore, the carrier element can be robust.

In particular, the guide device can have a first wing element and a second wing element. Each wing element can have a web, a first arm and a second arm. The arms can extend away from the bridge. A fastening section can be formed on the web. A first bearing section for supporting the wing element can be formed on the first arm, and a second bearing section for supporting the wing element can be formed on the second arm. The first wing element and the second wing element can be mechanically coupled to one another. Furthermore, at least one spring element can be attachable to the fastening section of the first wing element and the fastening section of the second wing element for providing a restoring force when the key module is actuated. A plurality of receiving sections for receiving the bearing sections of the wing elements can also be formed in the carrier element. The receiving sections of the carrier element can be shaped as bearing notches, incisions or the like. In other words, the recording sections can of the carrier element can be notched-shaped, V-shaped and additionally or alternatively dovetail-shaped. The carrier element can be formed in one piece. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that a mechanical system or guide mechanism can be provided which has a double-wing unit and an elastic means coupled to the double-wing unit. In this way, for example, identical-sided, synchronous and backlash-free or low-backlash guidance or parallel guidance of an upper part of the key module can be achieved. A force-travel curve of the button module with regard to an actuation can also be set by the manufacturer, by the customer and additionally or alternatively by the user. The key module can, for example, allow customer-specific further processing by the user.

The key module can also have at least one spring element for providing a restoring force when the key module is actuated. The at least one spring element can be designed in particular as a tension spring or as a compression spring. The at least one spring element can also be referred to as an elastic means. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that a defined force-path curve for actuation of the key module as well as a structurally simple, reliable provision of a restoring force that can be adjusted by replacing the at least one spring element can be made possible. In addition, a compression spring can also optionally serve as a bending link.

• zumindest ein Exemplar einer Ausführungsform des vorstehend genannten Tastenmoduls; und
• ein Schaltungssubstrat, wobei das zumindest eine Tastenmodul an dem Schaltungssubstrat angeordnet ist.

A keyboard is also presented, with the keyboard having the following features:

• at least one example of an embodiment of the above-mentioned key module; and
• a circuit substrate, wherein the at least one key module is arranged on the circuit substrate.

Thus, 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 soldering or inserting contact pins.

• Fig. 1 eine schematische Darstellung einer Tastatur mit Tastenmodulen gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• Fig. 2 eine schematische Darstellung eines Tastenmoduls gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• Fig. 3 eine partielle Explosionszeichnung eines Tastenmoduls gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• Fig. 4 eine partielle Explosionszeichnung von Teilen des Tastenmoduls aus Fig. 3;
• Fig. 5 eine schräge Draufsicht auf die Schalteinheit und das Trägerelement aus Fig. 3 bzw. Fig. 4 in einem teilweise zusammengesetzten Zustand;
• Fig. 6 die Kontakteinrichtung aus Fig. 3, Fig. 4 bzw. Fig. 5;
• Fig. 7 den Hilfsbetätiger aus Fig. 3 bzw. Fig. 4 in einer schrägen Unteransicht;
• Fig. 8 den Hilfsbetätiger aus Fig. 3, Fig. 4 bzw. Fig. 7 in einer schrägen Draufsicht;
• Fig. 9 eine partielle Explosionszeichnung von Teilen des Tastenmoduls aus Fig. 4 in einem teilweise zusammengesetzten Zustand;
• Fig. 10 eine schräge Draufsicht auf das Tastenmodul aus Fig. 4 bzw. Fig. 9 in einem montierten und unbetätigten Zustand;
• Fig. 11 eine schräge Draufsicht auf das Tastenmodul aus Fig. 4, Fig. 9 bzw. Fig. 10 in einem montierten und betätigten Zustand;
• Fig. 12 eine Seitenansicht des Tastenmoduls aus Fig. 10 ;
• Fig. 13 eine Teilschnittdarstellung des Tastenmoduls aus Fig. 12;
• Fig. 14 eine schräge Unteransicht eines Tastenmoduls gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• Fig. 15 eine Schrägansicht eines Teilabschnitts des Tastenmoduls aus den Fig. 14; und
• Fig. 16 eine Schrägansicht eines Teilabschnitts eines Tastenmoduls gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung.

The invention is explained in more detail using the accompanying drawings. Show it:

• Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a keyboard with key modules according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• Fig. 2 a schematic representation of a key module according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• Fig. 3 a partial exploded view of a key module according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• Fig. 4 a partial exploded view of parts of the button module Fig. 3 ;
• Fig. 5 an oblique top view of the switching unit and the carrier element Fig. 3 or. Fig. 4 in a partially assembled state;
• Fig. 6 the contact device Fig. 3 , Fig. 4 or. Fig. 5 ;
• Fig. 7 the auxiliary actuator Fig. 3 or. Fig. 4 in an oblique bottom view;
• Fig. 8 the auxiliary actuator Fig. 3 , Fig. 4 or. Fig. 7 in an oblique top view;
• Fig. 9 a partial exploded view of parts of the button module Fig. 4 in a partially assembled state;
• Fig. 10 an oblique top view of the button module Fig. 4 or. Fig. 9 in an assembled and unactuated state;
• Fig. 11 an oblique top view of the button module Fig. 4 , Fig. 9 or. Fig. 10 in an assembled and operated condition;
• Fig. 12 a side view of the button module Fig. 10 ;
• Fig. 13 a partial sectional view of the button module Fig. 12 ;
• Fig. 14 an oblique bottom view of a key module according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• Fig. 15 an oblique view of a portion of the key module from the Fig. 14 ; and
• Fig. 16 an oblique view of a portion of a key module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In the following description of preferred exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the same or similar reference numbers are used for the elements shown in the various figures and having a similar effect, with a repeated description of these elements being omitted.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a keyboard 100 with key modules 120 according to an exemplary embodiment. The keyboard 100 is, for example, part of a notebook computer, laptop computer or the like. Alternatively, the keyboard 100 is also 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 printed circuit board, circuit board or the like. According to the in Fig. 1 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the keyboard 100 has a plurality of key modules 120. The key modules 120 are arranged on the circuit substrate 110. Here, the key modules 120 are soldered onto the circuit substrate 110, for example.

Furthermore, according to in Fig. 1 shown and described embodiment, a key cap 125 is attached to each key module 120. 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 the keyboard 100. Alternatively, each key module 120 represents a key on the keyboard 100. The key modules 120 in particular will be discussed in more detail with reference to the following figures.

The keycap 125 represents a part of a key that is visible and touchable to a user of the keyboard 100. A key module 120 is actuated by pressing the key cap 125. Each key module 120 is designed to respond to an actuation force with a force-path characteristic Resistance or a restoring force to react. Furthermore, each key module 120 is designed to establish an electrical connection in response to an actuation with a predefinable actuation path, whereby a switching operation is carried out.

Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of a key module 120 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The key module 120 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown here has a guide device 230, a spring element 240, a carrier element 250 and a switching unit 260 with a housing 270, a contact device 280 and an auxiliary actuator 2392. An arrangement of the guide device 230, the spring element 240, the carrier element 250, the housing 270, the contact device 280 and the auxiliary actuator 2392 is shown in the illustration Fig. 2 to be understood only as an example and schematically and can also vary from exemplary embodiment to exemplary embodiment.

The guide device 230 is designed to guide a movement of the key module 120 during an actuation. The guide device 230 is designed, for example, as a double-wing mechanism, a scissor mechanism or the like. The at least one spring element 240 is designed to provide a restoring force when the key module 120 is actuated. The carrier element 250 is designed to carry at least the guide device.

The switching unit 260 points according to in Fig. 2 illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the housing 270, the contact device 280 and the auxiliary actuator 2392. The housing 270 is designed to at least partially accommodate the contact device 280. The contact device 280 is designed to produce an electrical contact when the key module 120 is actuated in order to enable a switching signal or actuation signal and/or to generate an actuation noise. The contact device 280 has a fixed contact piece with a first contact and a contactor with a first spring tab carrying a second contact and/or a second spring tab for generating an actuation noise and/or at least one Operating section. The contactor is formed in one piece. The auxiliary actuator 2392 is designed to actuate the contact device 280.

The housing 270, the contact device 280 and the auxiliary actuator 2392 will be discussed in more detail with reference to the following figures.

Fig. 3 shows a partial exploded view of a key module 120 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The key module 120 according to in Fig. 3 The exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown corresponds to or is similar to the key module from one of the figures described above.

In Fig. 3 Of the key module 120, in particular, the key cap 125, the guide device 230 in the form of two wing elements 230 with fastening sections 232, bearing sections 234 and connecting sections 236, the spring element 240, the carrier element 250 with receiving sections 252, the housing 270 with a groove 272, a section 1376 , two actuation openings 2371 and a holding section 2375, the contact device 280 with the fixed contact piece 1482, the contactor 1484, the first spring tab 1486, two actuation sections 1488 and the second spring tab 2387 and the auxiliary actuator 2392 are shown.

According to the in Fig. 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the key module 120 also has the key cap 125. Alternatively, the key cap 125 is provided separately from the key module 120 and can be coupled to the same. In a state of the key cap 125 mounted on the key module 120, the key module 120 and the key cap 125 represent a key. 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 as a guide device 230 according to in Fig. 3 illustrated embodiment of the present invention is a first Wing element 230 and a second wing element 230 for guiding a movement of the key module 120 when actuated by a user. The two wing elements 230 are mechanically coupled to one another. In the representation of Fig. 3 the wing elements 230 are shown in an unactuated state of the key module 120. In the unactuated state, the mechanically coupled wing elements 230 form an obtuse angle of rest between them. When the key module 120 is in an actuated state, the wing elements 230 coupled to one another span an opening angle between them that is greater than the angle of rest. The opening angle can also be 180 degrees. A difference between the repose angle and the opening angle can, for example, be in a range of approximately 12 degrees to 18 degrees.

Each wing element 230 has a web, a first arm and a second arm. The arms extend away from the bridge. In particular, the arms extend at right angles away from the web. The arms also extend parallel to one another, for example within a tolerance range. Alternatively, the arms can also extend obliquely with respect to each other. According to the in Fig. 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first wing element 230 and the second wing element 230 are shaped identically to one another. In addition, each wing element 230 is formed in one piece. For example, each wing element 230 is also formed from a metal material. How the wing elements 230 are formed and coupled to one another will also be discussed in more detail with reference to the following figures.

Each of the wing elements 230 points according to the in Fig. 3 shown and described embodiment, for example, two fastening sections 232 for fastening a spring element and two bearing sections 234 for supporting the wing element 230. The fastening sections 232 are formed on the web of the wing element 230. The fastening sections 232 are formed as through openings, in particular as rounded triangular through openings, in the wing element 230. The bearing sections 234 are formed on the arms of the wing element 230. A first bearing section 234 is formed on the first arm and is on the second arm second bearing section 234 is formed. The bearing sections 234 are formed as shoulders, steps or noses in outer edges of the arms of the wing element 230.

Each wing element 230 also has at least one connecting section 236 for connecting the wing element 230 to a top part for the key module 120. The upper part has the key cap 125. According to the in Fig. 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, each wing element 230 has, for example, a connecting section 236. The connecting section 236 is formed on the web of the wing element 230. The connecting section 236 has elastically deformable beam sections. The key cap 125 can be connected to the wing elements 230 and thus to the key module 120 via a snap connection using the connecting sections 236.

The key module 120 further has at least one spring element 240 for providing a restoring force when the key module 120 is actuated. According to the in Fig. 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the key module 120 has, for example, a spring element 240. The spring element 240 is attached to one of the fastening sections 232 of the first wing element 230 and to one of the fastening sections 232 of the second wing element 230. Here, the spring element 240 is designed as a tension spring.

The key module 120 also has a support element 250 for supporting the wing elements 230. The support element 250 is also designed to support the spring element 240 and optionally the keycap 125 when they are attached to the wing elements 230. For example, the carrier element 250 is 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 in Fig. 3 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 notch-shaped, V-shaped or dovetail-shaped shaped. The bearing sections 234 of the wing elements 230 are stored in the receiving sections 252 when the key module 120 is mounted. The wing elements 230 are thus mounted on the support element 250 so that they can pivot or tilt 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 mechanism. The carrier element 250 is thus designed to carry at least the guide mechanism.

The key module 120 also has the switching unit 260. The switching unit 260 has the housing 270, the contact device 280 and the auxiliary actuator 2392. The contact device 280 can be arranged at least partially in the housing 270. In other words, the housing 270 is shaped to accommodate at least a portion of the contact device 280. The housing 270 is formed, for example, from a plastic material. The auxiliary actuator 2392 is designed to actuate the contact device 280. The auxiliary actuator 2392 is formed, for example, from a plastic material.

In the housing 270 is according to in Fig. 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, for example, only a groove 272 is formed for receiving at least a portion of the spring element 240 in an actuated state of the key module 120. Here, the groove 272 is arranged between the section 1376 and a further section of the housing 270, in which the contact device 280 can be at least partially received. The portion 1376 of the housing 270 is designed to scatter and/or focus light from a light source. According to one exemplary embodiment, the light source can also be at least partially accommodated in the housing 270.

In addition, in the housing 270 according to in Fig. 3 illustrated embodiment of the present invention, two actuation openings 2371 are formed for exposing the at least one actuation section 1488 of the contact device 280. Furthermore, this shows Housing 270 has at least one holding section 2375 for holding the auxiliary actuator 2392. The at least one holding section 2375 is shaped as a pin according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown here. The housing 270 is arranged on the carrier element 250.

The contact device 280 is designed to establish electrical contact when the key module 120 is actuated and to generate an actuation noise. The contact device 280 can be pressed or deformed, for example by the auxiliary actuator 2392, in order to produce the electrical contact and the actuation noise. According to another exemplary embodiment, the contact device 280 can, for example, alternatively be pressed or deformed by the key cap 125 in order to effect the establishment of the electrical contact and the actuation noise.

The contactor 1484 of the contact device 280 points according to the in Fig. 3 illustrated embodiment of the present invention, in addition to the first spring tab 1486 carrying the second contact, the second spring tab 2387 to generate an actuation noise. Here, the first spring tab 1486 has an actuating section 1488. Furthermore, the second spring tab 2387 also has an actuation section 1488. The contactor 1484 is formed in one piece. In particular, the contactor 1484 is formed as a stamped part or stamped and bent part made of 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.

Fig. 4 shows a partial exploded view of parts of the key module 120 Fig. 3 . This corresponds to the representation in Fig. 4 the representation Fig. 3 except that the keycap is omitted from the illustration.

Fig. 5 shows an oblique top view of the switching unit 260 and the carrier element 250 Fig. 3 or. Fig. 4 in a partially assembled state. 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. The auxiliary actuator 2392 is shown in the illustration Fig. 5 omitted.

Fig. 6 shows the contact device 280 Fig. 3 , Fig. 4 or. Fig. 5 . 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 or another key module.

The contact device 280 has the fixed contact piece 1482 and the contactor 1484. The fixed contact piece 1482 and the contactor 1484 are electrically isolated from each other. The first contact 1583 of the contact device 280 is arranged on the fixed contact piece 1482. The second contact of the contact device 280 is arranged on the contactor 1484.

The contactor 1484 has the first spring tab 1486 carrying the second contact, the second spring tab 2387 and the two actuating sections 1488. The first spring tab 1486 and the second spring tab 2387 can be moved via the actuation sections 1488 until electrical contact is established between the first contact 1583 and the second contact and the actuation noise is generated. The actuation sections 1488 can be actuated by the auxiliary actuator when the key module is actuated. The contactor 1484 is elastically deformable. Thus, the contactor 1484 also functions as an elastic means.

The first contact 1583 has a linear or elongated contact area with a first extension axis. Even if it is from the representation in Fig. 6 only implicitly, the second contact also has a linear or elongated contact area with a second extension axis. The first extension axis and the second extension axis intersect each other, with electrical and mechanical contact being able to be established between the first contact 1583 and the second contact in a point-shaped contact section. According to the exemplary embodiment shown here, each extension axis 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 the contactor 1484. According to in Fig. 6 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first contact 1583 and the second contact each have a triangular sectional profile. For example, the first contact 1583 and the second contact are cut from a wire and welded to the contact device 280. The contactor 1484 is shaped to make the electrical contact while generating friction between the first contact 1583 and the second contact.

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 Fig. 6 It can be seen in more detail that the first spring tab 1486 tapers in the actuating section 1488. The actuating section 1488 of the second spring tab 2387 has a kink on a side facing away from the first spring tab 1486, at which the actuating section 1488 is bent in the direction of the fixed contact piece 1482 and the first spring tab 1486.

Fig. 7 shows the auxiliary actuator 2392 Fig. 3 or. Fig. 4 in an oblique bottom view. According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown here, the auxiliary actuator 2392 has two attachment sections 2794, two lugs 2796 and three fixing sections 2798. The auxiliary actuator 2392 is formed in one piece, for example from a plastic material.

The attachment portions 2794 are shaped to enable movable attachment of the auxiliary actuator 2392 to the at least one mounting portion of the switching unit housing. The attachment sections 2794 are, for example, curved or hook-shaped and are designed to accommodate the at least one holding section is formed by snapping or snapping.

The lugs 2796 are shaped to deflect the first spring tab and/or the second spring tab of the contact device when the key module is actuated. According to a further exemplary embodiment, in which the contact device is shaped differently, the auxiliary actuator 2392 can only have a nose 2796 and/or at least one differently shaped nose 2796.

The fixing sections 2798 are shaped to fix the auxiliary actuator 2392 to the guide device or the first wing element or the second wing element. The fixing sections 2798 are shaped as projections. According to another exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary actuator 2392 may have a different number of fixing sections 2798 and/or differently shaped fixing sections 2798.

Fig. 8 shows the auxiliary actuator 2392 Fig. 3 , Fig. 4 or. Fig. 7 in an oblique top view. Due to the illustration, one of the noses 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. 9 shows a partial exploded view of parts of the key module 120 Fig. 4 in a partially assembled state. The spring element 240 is suspended in a respective fastening section 232 of the first wing element 230 of the second wing element 230. Furthermore, the wing elements 230 are coupled to one another via their coupling sections. The switching unit and the carrier element 250 are in the state of Fig. 5 shown. The contact device is therefore at least partially accommodated in the housing 270.

Fig. 10 shows an oblique top view of the key module 120 Fig. 4 or. Fig. 9 in an assembled and unactuated state. Here the wing elements are 230 attached to the support element 250, the bearing sections 234 of the wing elements 230 being arranged in the receiving sections 252 of the support element 250. The auxiliary actuator 2392 is attached to the housing 270 by means of its attachment sections and fixed to one of the wing elements 230 by means of its fixing sections. An extension plane of the auxiliary actuator 2392 is inclined relative to an extension plane of the housing 270.

Fig. 11 shows an oblique top view of the key module 120 Fig. 4 , Fig. 9 or. Fig. 10 in an assembled and operated state. It can be seen that the spring element 240 is arranged immersed in the groove 272 of the housing 270. A portion of an actuating force exerted on the wing elements 230 is transmitted to the contact device of the switching unit via the auxiliary actuator 2392. Here, the extension plane of the auxiliary actuator 2392 is aligned along the extension plane of the housing 270 in the actuated state of the key module 120.

Fig. 12 shows a side view of the key module 120 Fig. 10 . In the side view of Fig. 12 of the key module 120, 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 partial section of the housing 270 and a partial section of the auxiliary actuator 2392 are shown. Furthermore, a section line AA is drawn for a sectional view or partial section view through the key module 120. The cutting line AA runs transversely to a longitudinal axis of the spring element 240.

Fig. 13 shows a partial sectional view of the key module 120 Fig. 12 along section line AA. In the partial sectional view of Fig. 13 from the key module 120 there are partial sections of one of the wing elements 230 with two of the fastening sections 232, partial sections of the spring element 240, partial sections of the carrier element 250, partial sections of the housing 270 with a deflection section 3373, partial sections of the auxiliary actuator 2392 with the two lugs 2796 and partial sections of the contact device with the first spring tab 1486, the second spring tab 2387, the first contact 1583 and the second contact 1585 are shown.

It can be seen here that a first of the lugs 2796 of the auxiliary actuator 2392 is shaped and arranged to actuate or deflect the first spring tab 1486 and thus to close the contacts 1583 and 1585. Furthermore, it can be seen that a second of the lugs 2796 of the auxiliary actuator 2392 is shaped and arranged for actuating or deflecting the second spring tab 2387 in order to generate an actuation noise. The deflection section 3373 of the housing 270 is shaped to deflect the second spring tab 2387 of the contact device 280 when the key module 120 is actuated. The deflection section 3373 is formed obliquely inclined with respect to a movement or movement axis of the key module 120 when the same is actuated. Here, a bending angle of the actuating section of the second spring tab 2387 is greater than an angle of inclination of the deflection section 3373 relative to the movement axis. Thus, an end edge of the second spring tab 2387 is arranged at a distance from the deflection section 3373. Thus, friction, scratching and the like between the deflection portion 3373 and the operating portion of the second spring tab 2387 can be minimized or prevented.

When the key module 120 is actuated, the wing elements 230 move, which is transmitted to the first spring tab 1486 and the second spring tab 2387 via the auxiliary actuator 2392. During such a deflection movement of the first spring tab 1486, the first contact 1583 and the second contact 1585 come into contact with one another. Furthermore, during such a deflection movement of the second spring tab 2387, the second spring tab 2387 is laterally deflected at its actuation section by the deflection section 3373. Due to the slope or inclination of the deflection section 3373 relative to the movement, the lateral deflection of the second spring tab 2387 increases with increasing deflection until the actuating section of the second spring tab 2387 slips from the nose 2796 of the auxiliary actuator 2392 that operates it and it becomes one that generates the actuation noise Kickback of the second spring tab 2387 against the housing 270 or the auxiliary actuator 2392 occurs.

Fig. 14 shows an oblique bottom view of a key module 120 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The key module 120 corresponds to the key module Fig. 10 except that the keycap 125 is connected to the wing elements 130 and the connecting sections 236 are shaped differently and have curved end sections 238.

Here, the key cap 125 of the key module 120, 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 a curved end section 238 are shown. 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 soldering pads 554 of the carrier element 250 serve to attach the carrier element 250 to a circuit substrate of a keyboard. The soldering surfaces 582 of the contact device 280 of the switching unit are used to attach the switching unit to the circuit substrate of the keyboard. The key module 120 can therefore be fitted directly to the circuit substrate by soldering the soldering pads 554 and 582 onto the circuit substrate.

According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown here, the receiving bay 574 is formed in the housing 270 of the switching unit for receiving a light source. The light source can be, for example, a light-emitting diode for surface mounting or an SMD-LED (SMD = surface-mounted device; LED = light-emitting diode). Furthermore, according to one exemplary embodiment, the housing 270 is formed at least in a partial section from a transparent or opaque material, in particular a plastic material.

In the representation of Fig. 14 It can be seen that the switching unit with the housing 270 and the contact device 280 is arranged in a space that is surrounded by the webs and arms of the wing elements 230.

According to another exemplary embodiment, in particular as an alternative to the soldering pads 554 and 582, the carrier element and the switching unit can be attachable to the circuit substrate of the keyboard by means of connection pins.

Fig. 15 shows an oblique view of a portion of the key module Fig. 14 . The in Fig. 15 The section of the key module shown includes the guide mechanism or the wing elements 230 and the spring element 240. In the illustration of Fig. 15 Here, of the wing elements 230, the fastening sections 232, the bearing sections 234, the connecting sections 236, first coupling sections 731 and second coupling sections 733 and webs 1335, first arms 1337 and second arms 1339 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 section 731 and a second coupling section 733. The first coupling section 731 is formed at one end of the first arm of each wing element 230 and the second coupling section 733 is formed at one end of the second arm of each wing element 230. The first coupling section 731 and the second coupling section 733 of each wing element 230 are shaped differently. All first coupling sections 731 are shaped the same and all second coupling sections 733 are shaped the same. Thus, the 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. According to the exemplary embodiment shown here, the first coupling section 731 is formed as a link and the second coupling section 733 is formed as a projection section or a plate. According to another exemplary embodiment, the first coupling section and the second coupling section can be formed as teeth.

Fig. 16 shows an oblique view of a portion of a key module according to an exemplary embodiment. The in Fig. 16 The section shown corresponds to this in Fig. 12 Partial section shown with the exception that two spring elements 240 are provided, which are designed as compression springs, the connecting sections 236 are shaped differently and the illustration shows a carrier element 250 which is similar to the carrier element from one of the figures described above, with the wing elements partially 230 and the support element 250 are structurally adapted to the spring elements 240.

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 Fig. 16 Wall sections of the support element 250 which have the receiving sections 252 are covered. 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 sections 236.

If an exemplary embodiment includes an "and/or" link between a first feature and a second feature, this can be read as meaning that the exemplary embodiment has both the first feature and the second feature according to one embodiment and either only the first feature according to a further embodiment Feature or only the second feature.

Reference symbols

100

Keyboard

110

Circuit substrate

120

Button module

125

Keycap

230

Management facility

232

Fastening section

234

Storage section

236

connection section

238

End section

240

Spring element

250

Support element

252

Recording section

260

Switching unit

270

Housing

272

Nut

280

Contact facility

554

soldering surface

574

Receiving bay

582

soldering area

731

first coupling section

733

second coupling section

1335

web

1337

first arm

1339

second arm

1376

Section

1482

Fixed contact piece

1484

Contactor

1486

first spring tab

1488

Operating section

1583

first contact

1585

second contact

2371

Actuation opening

2375

Bracket section

2387

second spring tab

2392

Auxiliary actuator

2794

Attachment section

2796

Nose

2798

fixation section

3373

Deflection section

Claims (15)

Key module (120) for a keyboard (100), the key module (120) having the following features: a guide device (230) for guiding movement of the key module (120) upon actuation; and a switching unit (260), wherein the switching unit (260) has a housing (270), a contact device (280) arranged at least partially in the housing (270) for establishing an electrical contact when the key module (120) is actuated, and an auxiliary actuator (2392 ) for actuating the contact device (280), wherein the contact device (280) is deformed by the auxiliary actuator (2392) in order to bring about the establishment of the electrical contact, with a part of an actuating force exerted on the guide device (230) via the auxiliary actuator ( 2392) is transferred to the contact device (280) of the switching unit (260). Key module (120) according to claim 1, in which the contact device (280) is a fixed contact piece (1482) with a first contact (1583) and a contactor (1484) with a first spring tab (1486) carrying a second contact (1585) and / or a second spring tab (2387) for generating an actuation noise and / or at least one actuation section (1488), the contactor (1484) being formed in one piece. Key module (120) according to claim 2, in which the contactor (1484) of the contact device (280) has the first spring tab (1486) carrying the second contact (1585) and the at least one actuating section (1488). Key module (120) according to claim 2, in which the contactor (1484) of the contact device (280) has the first spring tab (1486) carrying the second contact (1585), the second spring tab (2387) for generating the Operating noise and the at least one operating section (1488). Key module (120) according to one of claims 2 to 4, in which the housing (270) has an actuation opening (2371) for exposing the at least one actuation section (1488) of the contact device (280) and / or a deflection section (3373) for deflecting the second Spring tab (2387) of the contact device (280) when the key module (120) is actuated, the deflection section (3373) being formed obliquely inclined relative to the movement of the key module (120) during actuation. Key module (120) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (270) has at least one holding section (2375) for holding the auxiliary actuator (2392), wherein the auxiliary actuator (2392) has at least one mounting section (2794) for movably attaching the auxiliary actuator (2392 ) on the at least one holding section (2375) of the housing (270) and/or at least one nose (2796) for deflecting the first spring tab (1486) and/or the second spring tab (2387) of the contact device (280) when the key module is actuated (120). Key module (120) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the auxiliary actuator (2392) has at least one fixing section (2798) for fixing the auxiliary actuator (2392) to the guide device (230). Key module (120) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the contact device (280) has soldering surfaces (582) or connection pins for attaching the switching unit (260) to a circuit substrate (110) of the keyboard (100). The key module (120) according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the contact means (280) is formed to establish the electrical contact while generating friction between the first contact (1583) and the second contact (1585). Key module (120) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the housing (270) is formed at least in a partial section (1376) from a transparent or opaque material and/or at least in a partial section (1376) as at least one lens, and/or wherein the housing (270) has a receiving bay (574) for a light source, and/or wherein in the housing (270) at least one groove (272) for receiving at least a partial section of at least one spring element (240) for providing a restoring force during actuation of the key module (120) is formed in an actuated state of the key module (120). Key module (120) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a carrier element (250) for carrying the guide device (230), and / or wherein the carrier element (250) has soldering pads (554) or connection pins for attaching the carrier element (250) to a Circuit substrate (110) of the keyboard (100), and / or wherein the carrier element (250) is formed from a metal material. Key module (120) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the guide device (230) has a first wing element (230) and a second wing element (230). The key module (120) according to claim 12, wherein each wing element (230) has a bridge (1335), a first arm (1337) and a second arm (1339), the arms (1337, 1339) extending from the bridge (1335 ) extend away, a fastening section (232) being formed on the web (1335), a first bearing section (234) for supporting the wing element (230) being formed on the first arm (1337), wherein on the second arm (1339 ) a second bearing section (234) is formed for supporting the wing element (230), wherein the first wing element (230) and the second wing element (230) can be mechanically coupled to one another, with at least one spring element (240) for providing a restoring force during actuation of the button module (120) on the Fastening section (232) of the first wing element (230) and the fastening section (232) of the second wing element (230) can be fastened, wherein in the carrier element (250) a plurality of receiving sections (252) for receiving the bearing sections (234) of the wing elements (230 ) are formed. Key module (120) according to one of the preceding claims, with at least one spring element (240) for providing a restoring force when the key module (120) is actuated, in particular wherein the at least one spring element (240) is shaped as a tension spring or as a compression spring. Keyboard (100), the keyboard (100) having the following features: at least one key module (120) according to one of the preceding claims; and a circuit substrate (110), wherein the at least one key module (120) is arranged on the circuit substrate (110).

Images