US3815066A - Magnetic key mechanism or the like - Google Patents
Magnetic key mechanism or the like Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US3815066A US3815066A US00263831A US26383172A US3815066A US 3815066 A US3815066 A US 3815066A US 00263831 A US00263831 A US 00263831A US 26383172 A US26383172 A US 26383172A US 3815066 A US3815066 A US 3815066A
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- magnets
- actuator
- force
- displacement
- biasing
- 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.)
- Expired - Lifetime
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- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 title claims abstract description 86
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 99
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 23
- 239000000696 magnetic material Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 230000002457 bidirectional effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 9
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 9
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 7
- 230000000994 depressogenic effect Effects 0.000 description 6
- 230000003655 tactile properties Effects 0.000 description 5
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 4
- 208000035155 Mitochondrial DNA-associated Leigh syndrome Diseases 0.000 description 3
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000002452 interceptive effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 208000003531 maternally-inherited Leigh syndrome Diseases 0.000 description 3
- XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N Iron Chemical compound [Fe] XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- AJCDFVKYMIUXCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N oxobarium;oxo(oxoferriooxy)iron Chemical compound [Ba]=O.O=[Fe]O[Fe]=O.O=[Fe]O[Fe]=O.O=[Fe]O[Fe]=O.O=[Fe]O[Fe]=O.O=[Fe]O[Fe]=O.O=[Fe]O[Fe]=O AJCDFVKYMIUXCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 230000010287 polarization Effects 0.000 description 2
- 241000969130 Atthis Species 0.000 description 1
- 230000005355 Hall effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- FYYHWMGAXLPEAU-RNFDNDRNSA-N Magnesium-28 Chemical compound [28Mg] FYYHWMGAXLPEAU-RNFDNDRNSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000000418 atomic force spectrum Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003795 chemical substances by application Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000881 depressing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052742 iron Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000005415 magnetization Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011159 matrix material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000008439 repair process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001846 repelling effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000284 resting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000005060 rubber Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004065 semiconductor Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920003051 synthetic elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000005061 synthetic rubber Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H03—ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY
- H03K—PULSE TECHNIQUE
- H03K17/00—Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and –breaking
- H03K17/51—Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and –breaking characterised by the components used
- H03K17/90—Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and –breaking characterised by the components used by the use, as active elements, of galvano-magnetic devices, e.g. Hall-effect devices
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H2215/00—Tactile feedback
- H01H2215/034—Separate snap action
- H01H2215/042—Permanent magnets
Definitions
- a key mechanism has co-axial permanent magnets as a biasing means for key operator and co-axial permanent'magnets operable to cause snap action operation of a cylindrical cup within a housing.
- the co-axial biasing magnets are magnetized in parallel to their common axis and have a polarity of opposite direction.
- the actuator permanent magnets are magnetized in parallel with their common axis and have a polarity in the same direction.
- the force-displacement characteristic of the biasing magnets is matched to the forcedisplacem'ent characteristic of the actuator magnets to provide a predetermined tactile force-displacement characteristic for the operator.
- FIG.8 I l I I I I I I I20 140 I60 I I I 120 I40 I60 I60 DISPLACEMENT IN MILS o DISPLACEMENT m MILS DISPLACEMENT IN MILS O O o 6 w 0 mm 0 O O m M 3 2 4 3 2 @5165 5x8 22% 5 M28 II I)
- FIG.8 I l I I I I I I I 20 140 I60 I I I 120 I40 I60 I60 DISPLACEMENT IN MILS o DISPLACEMENT m MILS DISPLACEMENT IN MILS O O o 6 w 0 mm 0 O O m M 3 2 4 3 2 @5165 5x8 22% 5 M28 II I
- keyboard devices It is also desirable in keyboard devices to have key mechanisms which are capable of high speed operation and in which the switching action always occurs at precisely the same location and with the same feel for each operation. lt is also desirable that the key mechanisms retain these qualities of feel and precision in spite of a large number of operations for an extended period of time. It is also desirable from the user point of view that each of the key mechanisms of multiple key devices be substantially identical in their tactile and operating characteristics.
- Prior art key devices have employed spring elements which affect the tactile properties of the operation of the mechanism. Precision spring elements are generally costly items and even the best quality spring elements tend to alter after normally extensive use. Thus, operator efficiency tends to be affected or repair and replacement becomes a relatively frequent and costly expedient.
- this invention features the matching of the decreasing force-displacementcharacteristic of co-axial permanent magnets with an increasing force-displacement characteristic of a biasing means to provide a preselected force-displacement characteristic of the operator of the key mechanism as a means for providing a preselected tactile quality to the operator member.
- the matching is such that a reciprocating key operator member has a constant tactile force-displacement characteristic.
- the force-displacement characteristic of the bias means is linear while the force-displacement characteristic of the co-axial permanent magnets is inversely linear.
- co-axial permanent actuator magnets having a decreasing force-displacement characteristic the rate of which is greater than the increase force-displacement characteristic of the biasing means.
- the force-displacement characteristic of the operator member is decreasing or negative over the range of its displacement in an operating member of the key mechanism.
- the biasing means comprise a pair of coaxial permanent magnets operating on a pair of relatively movable operating members.
- the permanent magnets are magnetized in parallel with a common axis but are, oppositely polarized.
- the co-axial biasing magnets are cylindrical and ring type and their relative lengths are adjusted to a factor of 2.0. This assures that the coaxial biasing magnets will have, if desired, a linear force-displacement characteristic. It thus becomes possible with combinations of co-axial permanent magnets to eliminate the need for mechanical springs as a biasing means for a key mechanism.
- co-axial permanent magnets that have a linear force-displacement characteristic to match them with snap action type co-axial permanent magnets to obtain predetermined tactile properties for the operator member of the key mechanism. Since both the biasing means and the actuating means are designed from longlife permanent magnet materials, the switching and tactile properties of the key mechanism will be substantially unchanged over indefinite periods of time regardless of the amount of use. Such structures are relatively simple to manufacture and may be readily reproduced in large quantities.
- FIG. 6 is a graph showing force-displacement characteristic curves for various combinations of coaxial permanent magnets
- FIGS. 7a-7i are sequence drawings illustrating the operation of the key mechanism ofFIGf 2;
- FIGS. 8, 9 and 10 show three different tactile forcedisplacement plots for different kinds of key mechanisms utilizing this invention.
- a first embodiment of this invention is illustrated in a single key mechanism 10 mounted on a printed circuit board 11.
- Key mechanisms I and board 11 are representative parts of a keyboard assembly, further details of which are omitted to simplify the description.
- the key mechanism basically comprises an external housing 12 fixedly attached to the board 11 and an internal operating mechanism actuatable by manual pressure applied to button 13.
- Button 13, FIG. 2 is attached by suitable means such as pin 14 to the upper end of a reciprocating plunger assembly which comprises shaft 15 having an upper bearing 16 and a lower bearing 17 connected by connector pin 18.
- the plunger assembly is normally subjected to an upward biasing force.
- biasing means may be provided; however, it is a feature of this invention that the biasing means comprise coaxial permanent magnets. 19 and 20.
- the biasing means takes the form of a cylindrical permanent magnet 19 which has an aperture for receiving pin 18 in order that it may be sandwiched between the bearings 16 and 17 so as to be movable as part of the plunger assembly.
- Permanent magnet 19 co-acts with and is surrounded by permanent ring magnet 20 which is mounted externally to housing 12.
- Biasing magnet 19 is magnetized in parallel v 4 with biasing magnet 20 but with opposite polarity.
- the bearings 16 and 17 of plunger assembly reciprocably slides within chamber 21 of the upper section of housing 12.
- the limits of the displacement of the plunger assembly are established by a stop rim 22 formed in housing 12 and by flange 23, which is part of the attachment'pin 14 for button 13.
- the upward displacement of the plunger assembly is limited by the engagement of stop 22 by the upper surface of the upper bearing portion 16 while the downward displacement of the plunger is limited by the abutment offlange 23 on the upper edge surface 24 of housing 12.
- the bearing portion 16 and housing 12 are designed so that at the upper displacement position of the plunger assembly, the magnetic center line 25 of bias ing magnet 19 is displaced a finite distance below the magnetic center line 26 of biasing magnet 20.
- the operating mechanism in accordance with this invention further includes a pair of snap action co-axial permanent magnets 27 and 28.
- Permanent magnet 27 is, preferably a cylindrical disc magnet attached by some suitable means, such as pin 29, which extends through an aperture in permanent magnet 27, and supports it on the bottom surface of bearing 17 of the plunger assembly.
- Permanent magnet 28 is attached to the upper open end of a cylindrical cup 30 which is reciprocally slidable within chamber 31 in the lower section of housing 12. Permanent magnets 27 and 28 are magnetized in the same direction parallel to their common axis. The reciprocal displacement of permanent magnet 27 relative to ring magnet 28 by down/up application of manual force to key 13 causes permanent magnet 28 and cup 30 to move with snap action in a reciprocating manner within chamber 31 in the lower section of housing 12.
- the limits of displacement of cup 30 are controlled by stop rim 32 on the upper end of chamber 31 in housing 12 and an annular base rim 33 on the bottom surface of cup 30 which abuts printed circuit board 1].
- a switching means is also attached to cup 30 such that when it reciprocates within chamber 31 of housing 12, a circuit or the like (not shown) is activated or deactivated on printed circuit board 11.
- the switching means comprises a permanent magnet structure 34 mounted within a recess in the center of the bottom of cup 30.
- the magnetic switch structure 34 basically comprises a cylindrical or disc type permanent magnet 35 with a soft iron magnetic keeper 36.
- This permanent magnet structure is designed to provide an intense concentrated localized field which is capable of operating a magnetic sensor element such as a Hall effect cell (not shown) mounted as part of an integrated circuit semiconductor chip on the upper surface of printed circuit board ll. Further details of the magnetic switching structure and its operation may be obtained by reference to copending application of Michael Sulich and Albert W. Vinal, Ser. No. 263,832 filed June 19, I972,
- switching mechanisms either of the capacitive or mechanical type, may be attached to the bottom of the cup for performing other switching operations for circuit devices mounted on printed circuit board 1 1.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 Various materials may be used for making the key mechanism of FIGS. 1 and 2, however, in the preferred embodiment housing 12, shaft 15, along with bearing portions 16 and 17 and cup 30, are made of a plastic non-magnetic material. Likewise, pins 18 and 29 are also preferably non-magnetic. With the structural arrangement shown in FIG. 2 the permanent magnets 19, 20, 27 and 28 are capable of being very precisely located relative to each other so that the switching operation occurs at precisely the same physical location every. time. Also, by using these structures the stop positions'for the plunger assembly and cup 30 and hence,
- the. permanent magnets are very precisely controllable. It is also to be noted that the use of cup 30 as the support for permanent magnet 28 in combination with housing structure 12 permits the actuating permanent magnets 27 and 28 to be very precisely positioned radially as well as longitudinally. Thus, permanent magnets 27 and 28 are supported such that there are no intervening structures which would affect the efficiency or control of the magnetic forces which produce the snap action operation of these two magnets. With this arrangement the concentric actuating permanent magnets 27 and 28 can have a relatively small air gap 39, FIG. 4, which also can be precisely maintained so that the interactive magnetic forces experienced by the op erator on plunger assembly and key 13 does not deviate even after long periods of use. It is also to be noted that with the structures provided in the embodiment of FIG.
- the permanent magnets 19, 20, 27 and 28 are movable withoutbeing subjected to mechanical wearing which would degrade its magnetic properties.
- plastic materials as supporting mechanisms for the permanent magnets the key mechanism is capable of being manufactured economically and due to the long wear and self-lubricating properties of available plastic materials the operating characteristics of the key mechanism will not be appreciably altered after long periods of intensive use.
- a preferred magnetic material comprises barium ferrite particles embedded in a synthetic rubber matrix. Such a permanent magnetic material is available commercially under the trade name of 1-H type Plastiform, manufactured by the Dialectric Materials Division of 3M Company. Permanent magnet material of this type is available in sheet form.
- the variouspermanent magnets 19, 20, 27 and 28 are readily produced from such by a stamping operation. Not only is this economical, but the dimensions of the magnet can be very precisely maintained for use in a key mechanism. While the subject invention of embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is illustrated as a single key mechanism, it will be appreciated that for a keyboard mechanism using multiple key mechanisms the housing 12 might constitute a single block of non-magnetic material having a plurality of chambers of the type illustrated for housing 12 with plural individual plunger assemblies movable within the individual chambers. The location and position of the chambers and plunger assemblies would coincide with the arrangement of plural sensors and related circuit on the printed circuit board 1 l.
- FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of a key mechanism in which the biasing means has a coil spring 40 mounted under button I 42 which is integral with plunger shaft 41.
- the other end of the coil spring 40 is held within annular recess 43 in the upper portion of housing 44.
- Shaft 41 has a recess 45 in the bottom thereof which carries a cylindrical permanent actuator magnet 46.
- a cup 47 slidable within recess 48 in the bottom section of housing 44 carries a ring type permanent magnet 49 such that it surrounds the permanent magnet 46.
- Stop rim 50 on chamber 48 engages stop flange 51 on plunger 41 tolimit its upward displacement under the operation of biasing spring 40.
- housing 44, shaft 41 and cup 47 are a non-magnet plastic and the permanent magnets 46 and 49 are barium ferrite impregnate rubber.
- the actuator ring magnet 55 is part of the manually operable plunger 56 which slides reciprocally on housing 57.
- a biasing spring 58 is held between the upper end of housing 57 and plunger 56.
- Aco-axial cylinder permanent magnet 59 reciprocates in snap action manner within vented chamber 60 of housing 57.
- a switch element 61 is attached by pin 62 through an opening in the bottom of housing 57 to cylinder magnet 59.
- a base structure 63 which may be part of a keyboard support housing 57 and has a chamber 64 for guiding switch element 61. It is understood that switch element 61 could be operative for either a capacitive or resistive circuit (not shown) which might be mounted on a printed circuit board such as 11 in FIGS. 1 and 2.
- FIG. 7a shows the key mechanism at start position, as shown in complete detail in FIG. 2.
- the magnetic center line 37 of the actuator magnet 27 is located a finite distance above the magnetic center line 38 of actuator 28.
- a repulsion force between the actuator magnets-27 and 28 causes cup 30 to be depressed downwardly to its fullest extent such that rim 33 on the bottom of cup 30 presses on the upper surface of printed circuit board 11.
- the plunger assembly is held at its upper limit by an upward force due to the interacting repulsion of the actuator magnets 27 and 28, as well as the previously described biasing force of the magnets 19 and 20.
- the upper bearing 16 of the plunger assembly is pressed against the upper stop rim 22 of housing 12 (see FIG. 2).
- FIG. 76 shows the plunger assembly further depressed to the point where the center lines 37 and 38 of the actuator magnets 27 and 28 are substantially in alignment. At this point a first critical position is reached just prior to the reversal of the interacting magnetic forces between the actuator permanent magnets 27 and 28.
- FIG. 7d shows the displacement of permanent magnet 28 and cup 30 at the time when the center line'37 of actuator magnet 27 crosses the center line 38 of actuator magnet 28.
- the center lines 37 and 38 are reversed from the positions shown in FIG. 7a, cup 30 and magnet 28 has moved upwardly with rapid snap action motion (as shown by the arrow).
- Magnets 27-28 now interact with an upwardly directed repulsion force thereby holding magnet 28 against rim 32 on chamber 31 of housing 12.
- the plunger assembly is still moving downward in opposition to the force of biasing magnets I9 and 20, but with repulsion force of magnets 27 and 28 downwardly directed.
- FIG. 7e shows the plunger assembly depressed to its maximum downward limit.
- flange 23 (see FIG. 2) rests on the upper rim 24 of housing '12.
- the center line 37 of permanent magnet 27 is below the center line 38 of permanent magnet 28.
- Cup 30, therefore, will continue to be maintained up with permanent magnet 28 abutting rim 32 of housing 12 due to the upwardly directed repulsion force interacting between magnets 27 and 28.
- permanent magnets 19 and 20 will continue to exert upward biasing force on the plunger assembly to key 13 and the operator's finger. This bias force is greater than the downward repulsion force of magnet 28 on magnet 27.
- the plunger assembly will begin upward motion upon removal or lessening of external manual force on button 13.
- FIG. 7/ shows theplunger assembly in motion upwards.
- the plunger has moved partially upward under the force of the biasing magnets 19 and 20. Since the center line 37 of permanent magnet 27 is below the center line 38 of permanent magnet 28, repulsion force of the actuator magnets 27 and 28 is downward on the plunger assembly but upward on cup 30. In this position the interactive repulsion magnetic force between the permanent magnets 27 and 28 continue to cause cup 30 to be held at its upper limit against a rim 32 ofhousing 12.
- FIG. 7g shows the position of the actuator permanent magnets 27 and 28 at the position where their center lines 37 and 38 virtually coincide. This is again at the critical position of instability just prior to the time when the repulsion force between the actuator magnets reverses direction.
- FIG. 7h shows the position of the actuator magnets 27 and 28 when their center lines 37 and 38 have crossed over with plunger still moving upward.
- cup 30 will have moved rapidly downward to its bottom limit with rim 33 resting on printed circuit board II.
- the second switching action of the switch structure 34 takes place.
- the upward force on the operator is considerably increased since now the repulsion force of the permanent magnets 27 and 28 operates upwardly in conjunction with the biasing force of the permanent magnets 19 and 20.
- the plunger assembly is slightly depressed. Bias and repulsion forces act in combination in an upward direction.
- FIG. 71' shows the key mechanism back in its original position of FIG. 7a with plunger fully released in upper limit position set by rim 22 of housing 12 (see FIG. 2).
- one of the significant features of this invention is the combination of a biasing means having a preselected force-displacement characteristic with a pair of co-axial permanent magnets havthat each pair of coaxial magnets has a forcedisplacement characteristic which intersects the abscissa at least three times.
- the abscissa intersection points represent the stable and unstable force positions for co-axial magnets.
- the abscissa intersection at the 0 point is an unstable force position
- the abscissa intersections of the curves are the stable force positions.
- the 0 intersection of the abscissa for each of the curves in the graph of FIG. 6 represents the unstable positions for thepermanent magnesium 28 when there has been a relative displacement such that their respective center lines 37 and 38 coincide, as previously described in connection'with drawings FIG. and FIG. 7g. It is atthis position of instability where the permanent magnets experience a magnetic force which is at the threshold of changing direction from the positive to the negative force direction or vice versa which brings about the snap action motion of the permanent magnets and cup 30.
- the abscissa intersections at the positive or negative positions on either side of the O abscissa position represent the stable positions for permanent magnets 29 and 28 provided the displacement of the magnets is permitted to extend sufficiently far to permit the magnets to assume these stable positions. In accordance with this invention, however, the stops 22 and 32 for the plunger assembly and cup 30 are set so that the stable positions of magnets 27 and 28 will not be reached.
- the curves of the graph of FIG. 6 are conversely significant. Namely, the 0 abscissa intersection point indicates the stability position whereas the i abscissa intersection points represent unstable force positions. in reference to the biasing magnets 19 and 20 of the key mechanism embodiment of FIG. 2, this means that the 0 abscissa intersection point would occur if the center lines 25 and 26 of said magnet were to coincide. However, as indicated in connection with the description of FIG. 2, the biasing magnets 19 and 20 are not It will be noted further in connection with the curves 65-68 of the graph in FIG.
- this characteristic is used to'permit the matching of the I force of the biasing means and the force of the actuator magnets to produce a controlled tactile force displacement characteristic.
- the stops for the plunger assemblies and the cup for the actuator magnet are located such that their limits of displacement occur so that the magnets are operating over the linear portion of the curves 6668. While limiting is not necessarily required to get controlled tactile force-displacement characteristics, as previously indicated, this is a preferred way to design a key mechanism since as a practical matter it would be easier to match a linear force-displacement characteristic of a biasing means with the linear forcedisplacement characteristic of a pair of co-axial magnets.
- FIG. 9 shows a tactile force displacement curve in whic h t h e force-displacement characteristic of the biasing means is linear and the force-displacement characteristic of the actuator magnet is inversely linear.
- Curve 80 is the force displacement curve for the biasing means.
- Curves 81 and 82 are the composite tactile force displacement curves for the plunger assembly of the key mechanism which includes the force from the biasing means.
- Set point 83 and reset point 85 are the critical positions for the actuator magnets at which snap'action occurs to either decrease the tactile force level or to increase it, depending on whether the plunger assembly is being depressed or released.'lt is to be noted that between points 86 and 83 on curve 81 and between points 84 and 85 on curve 82 that the tactile force is substantially flat over the displacement range of approximately 60 mils. This indicates that the repulsion forces between the actuator magnets 27 and 28 are decreasing on a force displacement curve of FIG. 6 at substan tially the same the force is increasing f ro nTthe displacement of the biasing means.
- the key mechanism operator experiences a substantially uniform tactile force from the key mechanism during its reciprocal operation, both in the depression and release operations while providing for a tactile force level during depression which is higher than the force level during the release motion.
- a key mechanism comprising in combination a stationary housing of non-magnetic material, an operator member guided by said housing for reciprocal motion along an axis, means for biasing said operator member along said axis, an actuator member of non-magnetic material guided for reciprocal motion by said housing co-axially relative to said operator member, means carried by said actuator for performing a switch operation or the like, means for imparting a bidirectional snap action motion to said actuator member upon reciprocal displacement of said operator member'and comprismg a first actuator permanent magnet carried by said operator member, a second actuator permanent magnet surrounding and eo-axial with said first actuator magnet and carried by said actuator member,
- said actuator magnets being magnetized parallel with their common axis and in the same polar direction
- biasing means comprising a pair of co-axial permanent magnets mounted on said housing and said operator member respectively, said biasing magnets being magnetized mutually parallel and in opposite polar directions.
- an operating mechanism comprising in combination a pair of operator members, i said members being relatively reciprocally movable parallel to a common axis, means for exerting a bias force on said members parallel to said axis comprising t a first permanent magnet attached to one of said members, a second permanent magnet attached to the'other of said members and surrounding said first magnet, said magnets being magnetized in a direction parallel with said axis and in opposite polar directions, and means for performing a switch operation or the like comprising third and fourth co-axial actuator magnets longitudinally displaced from said bias magnets, one of said actuator magnets being movable with one of said bias magnets and the other of said magnets being independently movable relative to both of said operator members and its associated actuator magnet, said actuator magnets being magnetized in parallel '14 with a common axis and in the same polar direction whereby
- an operating mechanism in accordance with claim 5 in which said bias magnets have a unidirectional linear forcedisplacement characteristic, and said. actuator magnets have a force-displacement characteristic preselected to match the forcedisplacement characteristic of said biasing magnets whereby a preselected tactile force-displacement characteristic is obtainable for said operating members.
- said force-displacement characteristic of said actuator magnets is inversely linear over at least a portion of the range of displacement of said actuator magnets.
- an operating mechanism in accordance with claim 7 in which said inversely linear force-displacement characteristic of said actuator magnets is substantially equal in magnitude to said linear force-displacement characteristic of said bias magnets whereby a substantially uniform tactile force-displacement characteristic is provided to said operator members.
Landscapes
- Push-Button Switches (AREA)
- Input From Keyboards Or The Like (AREA)
- Tumbler Switches (AREA)
- Switches That Are Operated By Magnetic Or Electric Fields (AREA)
- Switches With Compound Operations (AREA)
Priority Applications (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US00263831A US3815066A (en) | 1972-06-19 | 1972-06-19 | Magnetic key mechanism or the like |
JP48052690A JPS4950466A (enrdf_load_stackoverflow) | 1972-06-19 | 1973-05-14 | |
FR7321355*A FR2189946B1 (enrdf_load_stackoverflow) | 1972-06-19 | 1973-05-25 | |
GB2654173A GB1418222A (en) | 1972-06-19 | 1973-06-04 | Magnetic actuator mechanism |
DE2330730A DE2330730A1 (de) | 1972-06-19 | 1973-06-16 | Schalttaste mit einem magnetschaltwerk |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US00263831A US3815066A (en) | 1972-06-19 | 1972-06-19 | Magnetic key mechanism or the like |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US3815066A true US3815066A (en) | 1974-06-04 |
Family
ID=23003407
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US00263831A Expired - Lifetime US3815066A (en) | 1972-06-19 | 1972-06-19 | Magnetic key mechanism or the like |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US3815066A (enrdf_load_stackoverflow) |
JP (1) | JPS4950466A (enrdf_load_stackoverflow) |
DE (1) | DE2330730A1 (enrdf_load_stackoverflow) |
FR (1) | FR2189946B1 (enrdf_load_stackoverflow) |
GB (1) | GB1418222A (enrdf_load_stackoverflow) |
Cited By (47)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3863182A (en) * | 1974-03-22 | 1975-01-28 | Magsat Corp | Magnetically operated electrical switch |
US3934215A (en) * | 1974-05-28 | 1976-01-20 | Inflo Systems, Inc. | Switch mechanisms |
US3942145A (en) * | 1974-09-03 | 1976-03-02 | Teletype Corporation | Snap-action switch |
US3950719A (en) * | 1974-08-21 | 1976-04-13 | Maxwell Palmer M | Proximity actuated magnetic button-contactor assembly for switches |
US3984797A (en) * | 1975-03-20 | 1976-10-05 | Square D Company | Switch operator |
US4054944A (en) * | 1975-01-17 | 1977-10-18 | Redactron Corporation | Finger operated switching device |
US4081114A (en) * | 1974-10-03 | 1978-03-28 | Tdk Electronics Company, Limited | Magnetic supporter assembly |
US4104603A (en) * | 1977-02-16 | 1978-08-01 | Hei, Inc. | Tactile feel device |
US4201489A (en) * | 1976-08-04 | 1980-05-06 | Creatcchnil Patent AG | Keyboard actuatable with the aid of the fingers of at least one hand |
US4290356A (en) * | 1978-08-29 | 1981-09-22 | International Business Machines Corporation | Actuator mechanism for a print hammer or the like |
US4513271A (en) * | 1982-07-16 | 1985-04-23 | Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company | Momentary contact magnetic switch |
US4574728A (en) * | 1984-06-07 | 1986-03-11 | Purolator Technologies Inc. | Filter differential pressure impending and bypass indicator |
FR2804541A1 (fr) * | 2000-01-27 | 2001-08-03 | Bfgoodrich Avionics Systems In | Codeur magnetique comportant un commutateur a action brusque |
US6329895B1 (en) * | 1995-11-14 | 2001-12-11 | Albert Maurer | Releasing magnet for anti-theft devices for sales goods |
US20060169097A1 (en) * | 2005-01-18 | 2006-08-03 | Chuck Peniston | Pedal kickdown mechanism and treadle attachment mechanism |
US20080248434A1 (en) * | 2007-04-03 | 2008-10-09 | Michael Wein | Magnetic lighter |
US20090043324A1 (en) * | 2007-08-10 | 2009-02-12 | Dynamic Magnetics, Llc | Magnetic lancet device |
US20100011544A1 (en) * | 2007-04-03 | 2010-01-21 | Michael Wein | Dual magnetic interlocking pin system |
WO2010042451A1 (en) * | 2008-10-08 | 2010-04-15 | The Dual Magnetic Interlocking Pin System, Llc | Kit for quick attaching and disconnecting an item |
USD621999S1 (en) | 2009-07-08 | 2010-08-17 | The Dual Magnetic Interlocking Pin System, Llc | Magnetic lighter |
US20100263172A1 (en) * | 2007-04-03 | 2010-10-21 | The Dual Magnetic Interlocking Pin System, Llc | Method for magnetically attaching and detaching portable items |
US20110191988A1 (en) * | 2008-10-08 | 2011-08-11 | The Dual Magnetic Interlocking Pin System, Llc | Kits for quick attaching and disconnecting an item |
US20110291777A1 (en) * | 2010-05-29 | 2011-12-01 | Winfried Stiltz | Magnetically operated switch |
US20130284577A1 (en) * | 2010-10-01 | 2013-10-31 | Trw Automotive Electronics & Components Gmbh | Switching device |
CN103973286A (zh) * | 2013-02-01 | 2014-08-06 | 东莞市川强电子科技有限公司 | 高性能编码开关 |
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US20170062168A1 (en) * | 2015-09-02 | 2017-03-02 | Fisher Controls International Llc | Switch apparatus for enclosures having environmental protection |
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US10100919B1 (en) | 2016-06-10 | 2018-10-16 | Kongsberg Power Products Systems I, Inc. | Shifter assembly |
US10117504B2 (en) | 2014-08-09 | 2018-11-06 | Apple Inc. | Wearable band including magnets |
US10123608B2 (en) | 2014-08-11 | 2018-11-13 | Apple Inc. | Wearable band including magnets |
US10172426B2 (en) | 2015-09-16 | 2019-01-08 | Apple Inc. | Magnetic band clasp |
US10264691B2 (en) * | 2015-03-02 | 2019-04-16 | Endress+Hauser SE+Co. KG | Field device for automation technology |
DE102018102230A1 (de) | 2018-02-01 | 2019-08-01 | Valeo Schalter Und Sensoren Gmbh | Rotations-Bedienelement, Bedieneinrichtung und Fahrzeug |
US11170954B2 (en) * | 2018-01-10 | 2021-11-09 | Alps Alpine Co., Ltd. | Input apparatus |
CN114423584A (zh) * | 2019-09-19 | 2022-04-29 | 西得乐集团 | 具有磁性双稳态装置的模制单元 |
US20220321121A1 (en) * | 2016-09-20 | 2022-10-06 | Apple Inc. | Input device having adjustable input mechanisms |
DE102022108320B3 (de) | 2022-04-06 | 2023-06-22 | Tonner Solutions GmbH | Magnetischer Taster |
US11830684B2 (en) | 2022-04-01 | 2023-11-28 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Magnetically preloaded push button |
US20240309616A1 (en) * | 2019-05-31 | 2024-09-19 | Hot Spot Holdings Pty Ltd | Securing Device And Removal Tool For Use With The Securing Device |
US12316314B1 (en) * | 2024-07-19 | 2025-05-27 | Finalmouse LLC | Hall effect keyboard |
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JPS61256392A (ja) * | 1985-05-10 | 1986-11-13 | 松下電器産業株式会社 | 電子楽器用鍵盤装置 |
GB2433351B (en) * | 2005-12-16 | 2009-03-25 | Dale Mcphee Purcocks | Keyboard |
DE102012008684A1 (de) * | 2012-04-28 | 2013-10-31 | Johnson Electric Germany GmbH & Co. KG | Schalter für ein Elektrogerät |
CN113838629B (zh) * | 2016-06-24 | 2024-10-01 | 泰坦触觉公司 | 触觉反馈执行器及其电子装置、操作方法 |
EP3488190B1 (de) * | 2016-07-22 | 2021-12-15 | Diehl AKO Stiftung & Co. KG | Drehbetätigungsvorrichtung |
EP4564124A1 (de) * | 2024-02-13 | 2025-06-04 | Stiwa Advanced Products GmbH | Eingabevorrichtung zur eingabe von steuerbefehlen in einen digitalrechner, sowie ein verfahren zum betreiben einer eingabevorrichtung |
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Cited By (63)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US3863182A (en) * | 1974-03-22 | 1975-01-28 | Magsat Corp | Magnetically operated electrical switch |
US3934215A (en) * | 1974-05-28 | 1976-01-20 | Inflo Systems, Inc. | Switch mechanisms |
US3950719A (en) * | 1974-08-21 | 1976-04-13 | Maxwell Palmer M | Proximity actuated magnetic button-contactor assembly for switches |
US3942145A (en) * | 1974-09-03 | 1976-03-02 | Teletype Corporation | Snap-action switch |
US4081114A (en) * | 1974-10-03 | 1978-03-28 | Tdk Electronics Company, Limited | Magnetic supporter assembly |
US4054944A (en) * | 1975-01-17 | 1977-10-18 | Redactron Corporation | Finger operated switching device |
US3984797A (en) * | 1975-03-20 | 1976-10-05 | Square D Company | Switch operator |
US4201489A (en) * | 1976-08-04 | 1980-05-06 | Creatcchnil Patent AG | Keyboard actuatable with the aid of the fingers of at least one hand |
US4104603A (en) * | 1977-02-16 | 1978-08-01 | Hei, Inc. | Tactile feel device |
US4290356A (en) * | 1978-08-29 | 1981-09-22 | International Business Machines Corporation | Actuator mechanism for a print hammer or the like |
US4513271A (en) * | 1982-07-16 | 1985-04-23 | Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company | Momentary contact magnetic switch |
US4574728A (en) * | 1984-06-07 | 1986-03-11 | Purolator Technologies Inc. | Filter differential pressure impending and bypass indicator |
US6329895B1 (en) * | 1995-11-14 | 2001-12-11 | Albert Maurer | Releasing magnet for anti-theft devices for sales goods |
FR2804541A1 (fr) * | 2000-01-27 | 2001-08-03 | Bfgoodrich Avionics Systems In | Codeur magnetique comportant un commutateur a action brusque |
US6556005B1 (en) | 2000-01-27 | 2003-04-29 | Goodrich Avionics Systems, Inc. | Magnetic encoder apparatus capable of resolving axial and rotational displacements |
US6577120B2 (en) | 2000-01-27 | 2003-06-10 | Bfgoodrich Avionic Systems, Inc. | Display controller including a multifunctional encoder |
US6642824B2 (en) | 2000-01-27 | 2003-11-04 | Goodrich Avionics Systems, Inc. | Magnetic encoder with snap action switch |
US20060169097A1 (en) * | 2005-01-18 | 2006-08-03 | Chuck Peniston | Pedal kickdown mechanism and treadle attachment mechanism |
US20100011544A1 (en) * | 2007-04-03 | 2010-01-21 | Michael Wein | Dual magnetic interlocking pin system |
US20080248434A1 (en) * | 2007-04-03 | 2008-10-09 | Michael Wein | Magnetic lighter |
US20100263172A1 (en) * | 2007-04-03 | 2010-10-21 | The Dual Magnetic Interlocking Pin System, Llc | Method for magnetically attaching and detaching portable items |
US8739386B2 (en) | 2007-04-03 | 2014-06-03 | The Dual Magnetic Interlocking Pin System, Llc | Method for magnetically attaching and detaching portable items |
US8402612B2 (en) | 2007-04-03 | 2013-03-26 | The Dual Magnetic Interlocking Pin System, Llc | Dual magnetic interlocking pin system |
US20090043324A1 (en) * | 2007-08-10 | 2009-02-12 | Dynamic Magnetics, Llc | Magnetic lancet device |
US10383560B2 (en) | 2007-08-10 | 2019-08-20 | Dynamic Magnetics, Llc | Magnetic drive device |
US9700254B2 (en) | 2007-08-10 | 2017-07-11 | Dynamic Magnetics, Llc | Magnetic lancet device |
US9247898B2 (en) * | 2007-08-10 | 2016-02-02 | Dynamic Magnetics, Llc | Magnetic lancet device |
US8776327B2 (en) | 2008-10-08 | 2014-07-15 | The Dual Magnetic Interlocking Pin System, Llc | Kits for quick attaching and disconnecting an item |
US20110191988A1 (en) * | 2008-10-08 | 2011-08-11 | The Dual Magnetic Interlocking Pin System, Llc | Kits for quick attaching and disconnecting an item |
WO2010042451A1 (en) * | 2008-10-08 | 2010-04-15 | The Dual Magnetic Interlocking Pin System, Llc | Kit for quick attaching and disconnecting an item |
USD621999S1 (en) | 2009-07-08 | 2010-08-17 | The Dual Magnetic Interlocking Pin System, Llc | Magnetic lighter |
US20110291777A1 (en) * | 2010-05-29 | 2011-12-01 | Winfried Stiltz | Magnetically operated switch |
US20130284577A1 (en) * | 2010-10-01 | 2013-10-31 | Trw Automotive Electronics & Components Gmbh | Switching device |
US9530585B2 (en) * | 2010-10-01 | 2016-12-27 | Trw Automotive Electronics & Components Gmbh | Switching device |
CN103973286A (zh) * | 2013-02-01 | 2014-08-06 | 东莞市川强电子科技有限公司 | 高性能编码开关 |
US10117504B2 (en) | 2014-08-09 | 2018-11-06 | Apple Inc. | Wearable band including magnets |
US10609990B2 (en) | 2014-08-11 | 2020-04-07 | Apple Inc. | Magnetic actuated attachment mechanisms for electronic devices |
US20190053610A1 (en) * | 2014-08-11 | 2019-02-21 | Apple Inc. | Wearable band including magnets |
US9693609B2 (en) | 2014-08-11 | 2017-07-04 | Apple Inc. | Magnetic actuated attachment mechanisms for wearable devices |
US10674803B2 (en) * | 2014-08-11 | 2020-06-09 | Apple Inc. | Wearable band including magnets |
US9585445B2 (en) | 2014-08-11 | 2017-03-07 | Apple Inc. | Magnetic buckle |
US10123608B2 (en) | 2014-08-11 | 2018-11-13 | Apple Inc. | Wearable band including magnets |
US20160042897A1 (en) * | 2014-08-11 | 2016-02-11 | Apple Inc. | Mechanisms having a magnetic latch and tactile feedback |
US20160064172A1 (en) * | 2014-09-02 | 2016-03-03 | Delta Systems, Inc. | Plunger switch assembly and method of operation |
US20160172136A1 (en) * | 2014-09-22 | 2016-06-16 | Polara Engineering, Inc. | Hall effect pushbutton switch |
US20180232060A1 (en) * | 2014-11-05 | 2018-08-16 | Razer (Asia-Pacific) Pte. Ltd. | Input devices |
US10264691B2 (en) * | 2015-03-02 | 2019-04-16 | Endress+Hauser SE+Co. KG | Field device for automation technology |
US9620306B2 (en) * | 2015-05-08 | 2017-04-11 | Primax Electronics Ltd. | Magnetic keyboard |
US20170062168A1 (en) * | 2015-09-02 | 2017-03-02 | Fisher Controls International Llc | Switch apparatus for enclosures having environmental protection |
US10172426B2 (en) | 2015-09-16 | 2019-01-08 | Apple Inc. | Magnetic band clasp |
US10100919B1 (en) | 2016-06-10 | 2018-10-16 | Kongsberg Power Products Systems I, Inc. | Shifter assembly |
US10190675B2 (en) | 2016-06-10 | 2019-01-29 | Kongsberg Power Products Systems I, Inc. | Shifter assembly |
US20220321121A1 (en) * | 2016-09-20 | 2022-10-06 | Apple Inc. | Input device having adjustable input mechanisms |
US12341508B2 (en) * | 2016-09-20 | 2025-06-24 | Apple Inc. | Input device having adjustable input mechanisms |
US20180144853A1 (en) * | 2016-11-22 | 2018-05-24 | American Magnetic Engineering, Inc. | Cup-Magnet Module of Composite Structure |
US11170954B2 (en) * | 2018-01-10 | 2021-11-09 | Alps Alpine Co., Ltd. | Input apparatus |
DE102018102230A1 (de) | 2018-02-01 | 2019-08-01 | Valeo Schalter Und Sensoren Gmbh | Rotations-Bedienelement, Bedieneinrichtung und Fahrzeug |
US20240309616A1 (en) * | 2019-05-31 | 2024-09-19 | Hot Spot Holdings Pty Ltd | Securing Device And Removal Tool For Use With The Securing Device |
CN114423584A (zh) * | 2019-09-19 | 2022-04-29 | 西得乐集团 | 具有磁性双稳态装置的模制单元 |
US11830684B2 (en) | 2022-04-01 | 2023-11-28 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Magnetically preloaded push button |
DE102022108320B3 (de) | 2022-04-06 | 2023-06-22 | Tonner Solutions GmbH | Magnetischer Taster |
WO2023194429A1 (de) | 2022-04-06 | 2023-10-12 | Tonner Solutions GmbH | Magnetischer taster |
US12316314B1 (en) * | 2024-07-19 | 2025-05-27 | Finalmouse LLC | Hall effect keyboard |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
FR2189946A1 (enrdf_load_stackoverflow) | 1974-01-25 |
FR2189946B1 (enrdf_load_stackoverflow) | 1976-05-14 |
DE2330730A1 (de) | 1974-01-10 |
JPS4950466A (enrdf_load_stackoverflow) | 1974-05-16 |
GB1418222A (en) | 1975-12-17 |
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