| Class / Patent application number | Description | Number of patent applications / Date published |
|---|
| 200005000 | Independent operators interlocked | 20 |
| 20080202911 | Fail safe membrane switches - Membrane switches have at least one trace with two leads, such that its integrity can be tested during deployment of the switch. | 08-28-2008 |
| 20090026055 | Sealed dual plunger switch assembly with simultaneity - A sealed dual plunger switch assembly includes two switch sub-assemblies comprising plunger actuating mechanisms and basic switches. The sub-assemblies can be inserted into an overall enclosure using shims in order to position their operate points in the desired range relative to the enclosure's mounting surface. The enclosure is then sealed using a combination of covers, gaskets, o-rings, connectors and potting. The sub-assemblies individually and/or simultaneously receive actuation inputs within a fixed distance from the assembly's mounting surface. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090188781 | RUBBER KEY DEVICE - A rubber key device is provide with a key top member, multiple rubber keys, a click feel generating mechanism and a load transmitting mechanism. When a depression area of the key top member is depressed by a user, the key top member is rotated to depress a top face of a rubber key via the load transmitting mechanism. The load transmitting mechanism transmits the load caused by the depression of the depression area to the top face of the corresponding rubber key such that the load is transmitted to only a substantially central portion of the top face of the corresponding one of the multiple rubber keys regardless of the depression amount of the depression area. | 07-30-2009 |
| 20090200149 | Operation device for vehicle - An operation device for a vehicle is provided that enables switching over of a plurality of operation menu display screens and switching over of a plurality of function display screens for in-vehicle equipment displayed on a monitor by tilting of an operating knob ( | 08-13-2009 |
| 20100032274 | MULTI-FUNCTIONAL SWITCH ASSEMBLY - A multi-functional switch assembly for a vehicle interior is provided. In at least one embodiment, the switch assembly includes a switch base having a guide with a longitudinal axis and a transverse beam member; and a switch body mounted to the guide of the switch base for limited translation along the longitudinal axis between a rest position and a transient position, wherein at the rest position, the switch body is pivotal about the transverse beam member between a first and a second transverse positions, wherein the rest and the transient positions are translatable to a first set of operative functions, wherein the first and the second transverse positions are translatable to a second set of operative functions. | 02-11-2010 |
| 20100084253 | INPUT UNIT FOR ELECTROTECHNICAL DEVICES - The invention relates to an input unit for electrotechnical devices, the unit being configured such that it is technically particularly effective, yet still cost-effective. Further, it is the aim to also provide illumination elements at little expense. For touching by finger, such an input unit comprises a cover suitable for capacitive field transmissions, the cover having a contact region that can be used for touching more than a single location. A sensor film is disposed directly beneath the cover, wherein the film has a resistance structure on the side facing the cover, the structure being electrically contacted via three contact points. The resistance structure is configured such that it continually, or at least quasi continually, capacitively responds as a function of the current location of touch of the cover by a human finger and sets a corresponding resistance variable, which can be tapped at the three contact points and used to generate a respectively associated input signal for the electrotechnical device for the corresponding control thereof. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100133083 | SIDE-SURFACE LIGHT-EMITTING UNIT AND ILLUMINATED PANEL USING THE SAME - A side surface light emitting unit illuminates, from its side surfaces, one or more objects to be illuminated which are arranged to extend in one direction on a flat surface. The side surface light emitting unit is provided with a light guide body arranged along the side surface of the objects to be illuminated, for projecting light to the side surfaces of the objects, and an LED arranged at least on one end of the light guide body. In the side surface light emitting unit, the upper surface and the lower surface, excluding the side surfaces facing the objects, are blocked from light. The objects to be illuminated, such as key switches, can be brightly illuminated by unintermittent continuous outgoing light, along the arrangement direction of the objects from one end. | 06-03-2010 |
| 20100181180 | CAPACITIVE TOUCH SENSING USING AN INTERNAL CAPACITOR OF AN ANALOG-TO-DIGITAL CONVERTER (ADC) AND A VOLTAGE REFERENCE - An internal sampling capacitor of an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) in a digital device is charged to a reference voltage, then some of the voltage charge on the internal sampling capacitor is transferred to an external unknown capacitor through a low resistance switch internal to the digital device. After the charge transfer has stabilized, the voltage charge remaining on the internal sampling capacitor is measured. The difference between the known reference voltage and the voltage remaining on the internal sampling capacitor is used to determine the capacitance value of the external capacitor. Alternatively, the external capacitor may be charged to a reference voltage then the external capacitor is coupled to the internal sampling capacitor, e.g., having no charge or a known charge on it, and the resulting voltage charge on the internal sampling capacitor is measured and used for determining the capacitance value of the external capacitor. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100187083 | Switch mechanism - A switch mechanism | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100307906 | CONNECTION WIRE FOR SERIAL PORT - A connection wire for a serial port comprises a first electrical connector, a second electrical connector, and a double pole double throw switch. The first electrical connector comprises a first transmit-data pin, a first receive-data pin, and a first ground pin. The second electrical connector comprises a second transmit-data pin, a second receive-data pin and a second ground pin. The double pole double throw switch comprises a first pole, a second pole, a first throw, a second throw, a third throw and a fourth throw. The first pole is configured to be connected to the first transmit-data pin, the second pole is configured to be connected to the first receive-data pin; the first and the fourth throws are configured to be connected to the second receive-data pin, and the second and the third throws are configured to be connected to the second transmit-data pin of the serial port transmission line. The first ground pin is configured to be connected to the second ground pin. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20110233041 | Two-Stage Switch Assembly - A switch assembly is provided to actuate a pair of switches using a single push key. e.g. for a camera that utilizes a first switch to activate an image focusing function and a second switch to activate a camera shutter. The switch assembly comprises a contact pad switch and a dome switch that are located laterally to one another. When the push key receives a first downward force, only the contact pad switch becomes activated and a first electric circuit is completed. When the push key receives a second downward force that is greater than the first force, the dome switch collapses and a second electric circuit is completed. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110303519 | MULTI-DIRECTIONAL SWITCH - A multi-directional switch includes switches, a wiring board having an electrode, a pressure-sensitive body disposed over the electrode, a detection pin disposed on the upper surface of the pressure-sensitive body, and an operating body configured to push the detection pin and the switches by being tilted. The degree of a pushing force exerted by the operating body onto the detection pin changes the contact resistance between the pressure-sensitive body and the electrode. The multi-directional switch enables an electronic apparatus connected thereto to perform diverse functions by reflecting changes in the contact resistance. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20120018291 | SWITCH ASSEMBLY - A switch assembly includes a cover, a main body, a base and a fixing member to connect the cover with the base. The cover is fixed to the base to define a space for the main body. Two switch elements are disposed apart from each other on the base. The main body includes two buttons connected by a connection element. The connection element includes a combination portion, two elastic arms and two connection portions. The combination portion is fixed to the base. The elastic arms extend respectively upwards from the combination portion. The elastic arms are respectively connected to one end of the connection portion away from the combination portion. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120061225 | SWITCH UNIT - A switch unit for detecting movement of a target object in a first direction and in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction includes a first movable body arranged to move in the first direction together with the movement of the target object in the first direction, a first substrate provided with a first detecting unit for detecting a position of the first movable body in the first direction, a second movable body arranged to move in the second direction together with the movement of the target object in the second direction, and a second substrate provided with a second detecting unit for detecting a position of the second movable body in the second direction. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120090975 | SWITCHING DEVICE - To increase safety when working on electrical installations, a switching device which has a first switch position and a second switch position, includes a first movable switch contact contacting a first contact part in the first switch position and a third contact part in the second switch position, and a second movable switch contact contacting a second contact part in the first switch position and a fourth contact part in the second switch position, wherein the third contact part and the fourth contact part are conductively connected with one another. The switching device can be constructed as a ground-fault circuit interrupter and/or a line circuit breaker. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120160654 | Assembly of a Multipole Switchgear Device With Double Enclosure and Circuit Breaker Comprising the Same - In order to take maximum advantage of the modularity provided by a multipole circuit breaker with double enclosure ( | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120175234 | Switch Unit and Switchgear - A switch unit includes a plurality of switches, which are linearly disposed. The movable electrode in one switch and the fixed electrode in another switch are electrically connected to each other. | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120285809 | TOUCH PANEL - A touch panel includes a first electrode substrate including a first substrate and a first conductive film formed on the first substrate, and a second electrode substrate including a second substrate and a second conductive film formed on the second substrate to face the first conductive film. A part or the entirety of the first conductive film is divided into plural conductive areas. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20130153388 | TOUCH DEVICES AND FABRICATION METHODS THEREOF - A touch device and a fabrication method thereof are provided. The touch device includes a cover lens, a first light shielding pattern and a touch sensing element disposed on the cover lens, a passivation layer covering the touch sensing element and the first light shielding pattern, and a second light shielding pattern disposed on the passivation layer, wherein the second light shielding pattern overlaps with a part of the first light shielding pattern. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130161175 | ELECTRONIC APPARATUS - An electronic apparatus of the present invention includes an operating portion formed by a non-conductive material, a rotating plate configured to rotate in accordance with a rotational operation of the operating portion, a substrate including a first sensing electrode whose capacitance changes by a touch operation to the operating portion and a plurality of second sensing electrodes whose potential changes by a rotation of the rotating plate on a surface different from a surface on which the first sensing electrode is disposed, and a detector configured to detect the capacitance of the first sensing electrode and the rotational operation of the operating portion based on an output from the plurality of second sensing electrodes. A protruding portion that protrudes toward the first sensing electrode is formed on the operating portion, and the protruding portion is formed on a lightening portion on a back side of the operating portion. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130161176 | SWITCHING APPARATUS PROVIDED WITH SWITCHES AND LEVER - A switching apparatus includes a base, a housing, a main switch for mechanically disconnecting a power supply circuit and an interlock switch for electrically disconnecting the power supply circuit. The switching apparatus also includes a lever which is rotatably supported by one of the base and the housing and also is engaged with an engaging section formed in the other of the base and the housing. The lever causes a wall of the housing to be slid in a depth direction of an annular groove of the base in accordance with a rotation of the lever. The interlock switch is disconnected ahead of the main switch by separating a movable terminal of the interlock switch away from a fixed terminal of the interlock switch when the lever is rotated to cause the housing slid in a direction away from the base. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130168215 | TOUCH PANEL AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - The present disclosure discloses a touch panel and a method of manufacturing the same. The touch panel comprises a transparent substrate, a non-transparent insulation layer disposed on the transparent substrate, wherein the non-transparent insulation layer has a first opening and a second opening, transparent conductive patterns disposed in the first opening and the second opening, and non-transparent conductive patterns disposed on the non-transparent insulation layer beyond the first opening and the second opening, wherein the non-transparent conductive patterns electrically connect the transparent conductive pattern in the first opening and the transparent conductive pattern in the second opening. | 07-04-2013 |
| 20130199912 | HYBRID CURRENT SWITCHING DEVICE - A hybrid current switching device has a casing which includes a main current switch having first fixed and movable contacts connected in series with first and second terminals, a power switch device connected in parallel with the main current switch and switchable between an on-state and an off-state, a secondary current switch having second fixed and movable contacts and being connected in series with the power switch device, and a movable-contacts holding shaft on which the first and second movable contacts are mounted. The contacts-holding shaft is positioned inside the casing rotating around a rotation axis to move the movable contacts between a closed position where they are coupled with the corresponding fixed contacts and an open position where they are electrically separated therefrom. The first and second movable contacts are mounted on the rotating shaft with an angular offset relative to each other when in the open position. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20130213783 | TOUCH-SENSING MODULE - A touch-sensing module including a plurality of first sensing strings and a plurality of second sensing strings is provided. Each of the first sensing strings includes a first strip-shaped conductive line and a plurality of first sensing pads connected to a same side of the first strip-shaped conductive line. Each of the second sensing strings includes a second strip-shaped conductive line and a plurality of second sensing pads connected to a same side of the second strip-shaped conductive line. The first strip-shaped conductive lines of the first sensing strings cross the second strip-shaped conductive lines of the second sensing strings. A crossing position of each of the first strip-shaped conductive lines and each of the second strip-shaped conductive lines forms an electrical reference node. | 08-22-2013 |
| 20130299328 | MICRO ELECTRO MECHANICAL SYSTEM (MEMS) MICROWAVE SWITCH STRUCTURES - A structure having a plurality serially coupled variable capacitors, each one of the variable capacitors having a pair of plates, one of the plates being electrostatically moveable relative to the other one of the plates, to provide each one of the variable capacitors with a variable capacitance; and a transmission line. A first one of the variable capacitors has a first one of the one plates thereof coupled between and input and output of the transmission line and a second one of the plates thereof serially coupled to a first one of the plates of a second one of the variable capacitors. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20140027257 | TAP CHANGER WITH VACUUM INTERRUPTERS - The invention relates to a tap changer having vacuum interrupters for switching over between winding taps of a tapped transformer without interruption. The tap changer according to the invention having vacuum interrupters is based on the general idea of combining the functionalities of at least one conventional vacuum switching contact which switches under load and a further mechanical switching means according to the prior art in just one single vacuum interrupter with two separately moving contact systems. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140054153 | MULTI DIRECTION SWITCH - A multi direction switch ( | 02-27-2014 |
| 20140102869 | OPERATING DEVICE - Disclosed herein is an operating device including: a circuit board; a frame arranged on top of the circuit board; a plate-shaped operating member located on top of the frame, the plate-shaped operating member including a surface touched by a user's finger and a touch sensor adapted to detect the position of the user's finger that has touched the surface, the plate-shaped operating member being arranged to be able to move up and down so that the operating member can be pressed by the user; and an elastic member arranged between the frame and operating member to bias the operating member upward. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140138233 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD - A luminous keyboard includes a lateral-emitting type illumination element, a light guide plate, a reflective plate, a sensing circuit pattern, and plural keys. The lateral-emitting type illumination element is used for providing a light beam to the light guide plate, so that the light beam is diffused to the whole light guide plate. The light guide plate has plural light-guiding dots for collecting and scattering the light beam. The portion of the light beam scattered upwardly by the light-guiding dots is projected to the plural keys. The portion of the light beam scattered downwardly is reflected by the reflective plate and incident into the light guide plate again. The sensing circuit pattern is formed on a surface of the reflective plate. When any key is moved toward the sensing circuit pattern, the sensing circuit pattern generates a corresponding non-contact key signal. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140144764 | Optically Transmissive Key Assemblies for Display-Capable Keyboards, Keypads, or Other User Input Devices - A key that includes a body with an optically transmissive or light permeable region and an optical film coupled to or carried by the light permeable region. The key also includes a resilient structure coupled to the body. The key can be assembled or coupled to, or disposed relative or adjacent to, a display screen. The key also includes a switch actuator (e.g., an electromechanical switch actuator or contact element). Displacement of the key, more specifically the body of the key, displaces the switch actuator for actuating a switch. The resilient structure is configured to bias the body at a first position. The body can be actuated or displaced from the first position to a second position for effectuating corresponding displacement of the switch actuator and actuation of the switch. The resilient structure provides or establishes a positive tactile feedback upon user-directed or user-controlled actuation or displacement of the body. The resilient structure and/or the switch actuator is positioned and configured to minimize, reduce, or eliminate obstruction of light transmission through the light permeable region of the body. | 05-29-2014 |
| 20140216908 | KEYBOARD ASSEMBLY - A keyboard assembly includes a keyboard unit, a securing bracket, and an outer panel. The keyboard unit includes a base panel and a number of keys mounted on the base panel. The securing bracket defines a number of receiving holes receiving the keys. The outer panel includes a transmission portion and a light shield layer attached on the transmission portion. The transmission portion defines a number of light holes also receiving the keys. The light shield layer is used for reflecting light from the transmission to emit into the light holes, thereby lighting the keys. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140251776 | KEY BUTTON ASSEMBLY FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF - An electronic device includes a substrate having a key sensor region and a touch sensor regions, a dome key unit, a key button, and a touch sensor. The dome key unit is arranged on the key sensor region of the substrate. The key button is arranged above the dome key unit in alignment with the dome key unit. The touch sensor is arranged on the touch sensor region of the substrate. The touch sensor is arranged such that it includes a region overlapping with a part of the key button. The key button can perform at least two functions associated with different input schemes at the same input point of the key button by means of the dome key unit and the touch sensor. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140262718 | PUSH BUTTON SWITCH - A push button switch comprises a base, a plurality of contact plates, a switching assembly, and a push button assembly. The base has a first cavity with a plurality of first, second, and third conductive terminals assembled therein. A length of the first conductive terminal is greater than that of the second and third conductive terminals. The contact plate is of a planar structure or has an extending structure. The switching assembly has a switching body with a displacement-restricting guiding trench and a plurality of second cavities and a plurality of switching units. The switching units are respectively arranged in the second cavities and push against the contact plates. The push button assembly is connected to the base and has a pushing element and a first elastic unit. The pushing element pushes against the displacement-restricting guiding trench and the first elastic unit is assembled to the pushing element. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140360853 | SWITCHGEAR AND OPENING AND CLOSING METHOD THEREOF - A switchgear including a plurality of switch units having a fixed electrode and a movable electrode; and an operating device configured to operate the movable electrode of each of the switch units, wherein the operating device is configured of one motive part and two follower parts that intermittently operate with each other, and part of each of the follower parts touches the motive part, thereby in a condition that moving force is not transmitted from the motive part to the follower part, a state of the follower part is fixed, and in a condition that the motive part shifts from an initial position to a final position, a state of one of the follower parts is allowed to transit, and a state of the other of the follower parts is changed with a delay from such state transit, thereby the switch units are driven while a time delay is produced. | 12-11-2014 |
| 20140360854 | PRESSURE-SENSITIVE CAPACITIVE MEASUREMENT DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TOUCH-SENSITIVE AND CONTACTLESS INTERFACES - A capacitive measurement device for control interfaces, includes: (i) a support plate ( | 12-11-2014 |
| 20150014139 | FOUR-DIRECTION SWITCH DEVICE - In a four-direction switch device, an outer peripheral surface of a disc-shaped switch knob is provided with first to fourth pivot projections arranged in phase with first to fourth switch operation parts and first to fourth movable stoppers arranged with a phase shift by 45° from the projections, respectively, and a switch case is provided with first to fourth fixed stoppers facing lower surfaces of the movable stoppers, respectively. If the knob is pushed at a switch dead part, the knob swings about a straight line connecting a pair of the pivot projections located on an opposite side of the switch dead part, but the movable stopper and the fixed stopper both located below the pushed switch dead part come into contact with each other, thereby avoiding actuation of any switch. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150021153 | TOUCH-SENSITIVE INPUT DEVICE - A touch-sensitive input device ( | 01-22-2015 |
| 20150027870 | TOUCH SCREEN, ELECTRONIC DEVICE COMPRISING SAME AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SAME - Embodiments of the present invention provide a touch screen, an electronic device comprising the same and a method for manufacturing the same. The touch screen comprises driving electrode layers, a transparent organic polymer layer and metal bridges conductively communicated with two adjacent driving electrode layers, and protective layers covering the metal bridges to prevent the oxidation of the metal bridges are disposed between the driving electrode layers and the metal bridges. In the touch screen provided by the embodiment of the present invention, as the metal bridges are respectively covered by the protective layers, the metal bridges will not undergo oxidation reaction due to the contact of transparent organic polymers, and thus the electric conductivity of the metal bridges can be effectively guaranteed; the increase of the impedance of oxide layers can be avoided; and the product yield of the touch screen can be improved. | 01-29-2015 |
| 20150034472 | TOUCH PANEL - A touch panel includes a substrate, first conductive series, second conductive series, and insulation patterns. Each of the first conductive series includes first conductive patterns arranged in a first direction and first narrow portions, and each first narrow portion is connected to two adjacent first conductive patterns. The second conductive series are insulated from the first conductive series. Each of the second conductive series extends in a second direction and includes a plurality of intersections intersected with the first narrow portions. The insulation patterns are located between the first narrow portions and the intersections, so that one of the first narrow portions and a respective one of the intersections intersected with the one of the first narrow portions are separate. An edge of each of the insulation patterns and one of the first conductive patterns of each of the first conductive series partially overlap. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150041301 | TOUCH SENSOR - There is provided a touch sensor including: a base substrate; a first electrode pattern formed on the base substrate and including first electrode lines repeatedly arranged in parallel with each other; and a second electrode pattern formed on a surface spaced apart from a surface on which the first electrode pattern is formed and including second electrode lines intersecting with the first electrode lines and repeatedly arranged in parallel with each other, wherein an extension line connecting intersection points between the first and second electrode lines to each other is formed as an oblique line with respect to a horizontal direction. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150060251 | TOUCH PANEL AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - A touch panel includes an insulative substrate, a first adhesive layer, a first transparent conductive layer, a second adhesive layer, a second transparent conductive layer, a number of first electrodes, a first conductive trace, a number of second electrode, and a second conductive trace. The insulative substrate, the first adhesive layer, the first transparent conductive layer, the second adhesive layer, and the second transparent conductive layer are stacked with each other in that order. The first transparent conductive layer and the second transparent conductive layer are electrically insulated from each other only by the second adhesive layer. A method for making the touch panel is also related. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150060252 | TOUCH SCREEN AND DISPLAY DEVICE - The present invention provides a touch screen and a display device with better touch effect. The touch screen includes: a first substrate, a plurality of first touch electrodes distributed along a first direction on the first substrate, and a first insulating layer between the first substrate and the first touch electrodes; and a plurality of second touch electrodes distributed along a second direction intersecting the first direction, wherein uneven areas are provided on one side of the first insulating layer facing the first touch electrodes at regions corresponding to each of the first touch electrodes, and the first touch electrodes are disposed on the first insulating layer according to its shape, forming corresponding uneven areas. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150060253 | DECORATIVE SUBSTRATE AND TOUCH PANEL - A decorative substrate and a touch panel are provided. The decorative substrate has a first region and a second region at least partially surrounding the first region. The decorative substrate includes a substrate, a decorative layer and a protective layer. The substrate has a first surface and a first sidewall. The decorative layer is disposed on the first surface and located in the second region. The decorative layer has a second sidewall adjacent to the first sidewall of the substrate, and a portion of the first surface disposed between the second sidewall and the first sidewall is defined as an outer border region. The protective layer is at least partially disposed in the outer border region of the first surface. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150060254 | TOUCH PANEL AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - A touch panel and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. The touch panel includes an insulating layer, a plurality of first conductive electrodes, a plurality of second conductive electrodes, a plurality of first auxiliary electrodes and a plurality of second auxiliary electrodes. The insulating layer has a plurality of through holes. The first conductive electrodes are arranged along a first direction and electrically connected with each other. The second conductive electrodes are arranged along a second direction and electrically connected with each other. The first auxiliary electrodes and the first conductive electrodes are electrically connected via part of the though holes. The second auxiliary electrodes and the second conductive electrodes are electrically connected via another of the though holes. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150060255 | TOUCH PANEL - A touch panel including a substrate and touch sensitive units is provided. Each touch sensitive unit includes a first electrode set and a second electrode set. Each first electrode set includes first electrodes separated by a first space between one another. Each second electrode set includes second electrodes separated by a second space between one another. One of a width of each second electrode and a width of each first electrode is increased along a first direction, and the other one is decreased along the first direction, wherein at least one of the second space is not aligned to at least one of the first space so that an extended trajectory of the at least one of the second space passes through one of the first electrodes. Two adjacent first electrodes are electrically independent and two adjacent second electrodes are electrically independent. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150068881 | TWO-POLE CIRCUIT BREAKER WITH TRIP BAR APPARATUS AND METHODS - A two-pole circuit breaker has an internal rotating trip bar that causes a second pole to trip (i.e., interrupt power) in response to a first pole tripping. A first pole may trip when the two-pole circuit breaker senses an electrical fault in the first pole. The tripping of the second pole in response to the first pole tripping may be referred to as common tripping. The trip bar may be connected to a tripping mechanism in each pole and may have interface features that result in less force required to trip the second pole, greater trip bar design tolerances, and/or ultimately more reliable common tripping. Methods of assembling a two-pole circuit breaker are also provided, as are other aspects. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150068882 | CAPACITIVE TOUCH PANEL - A capacitive touch panel includes a first transparent substrate, a second transparent substrate, and an isolation layer. First and second sensing electrode serials are disposed on surfaces of the first and second transparent substrates, respectively. The first sensing electrode serials are formed by cascading first sensing electrodes. A first hollow region is formed between two adjacent first sensing electrodes. A first compensating electrode is formed in the first hollow region on the surface of the first transparent substrate. The second sensing electrode serials are formed by cascading second sensing electrodes. A second hollow region is formed between two adjacent second sensing electrodes. A second compensating electrode is formed in the second hollow region on the surface of the second transparent substrate. The isolation layer is disposed between the first and second transparent substrates. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150068883 | TOUCH PANEL AND MANUFACTURING PROCESS THEREOF - A touch panel includes a plurality of first electrodes arranged along a first direction and parallel to each other, wherein each first electrode includes a plurality of first electrode blocks and a plurality of first connection traces. A plurality of second electrodes arranged along a second direction and parallel to each other, wherein each second electrode includes a plurality of second electrode blocks and a plurality of second connection traces. And a plurality of insulating blocks, wherein each insulating block includes a main portion and at ;east one extending portion, the main portion is disposed between each first connection trace and each second connection trace, the extending portion extends from the main portion to the space between the first electrode block and the second electrode block. The present invention further provides a method for forming the touch panel mentioned above. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150068884 | CONDUCTIVE SHEET AND CONDUCTIVE SHEET FOR TOUCH PANEL - A conductive sheet, method for using conductive sheet and touch panel, having a base substance and conductive parts formed on one of the principal surfaces of the base substance. The conductive parts respectively extend in primary directions, and have two or more conductive patterns made from metal wires arranged in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction. The conductive pattern is constituted by serially connecting two or more large gratings in the first direction, and each of the large gratings is constituted by combining two or more small gratings. Around the edges of the large grating, non-connective patterns are formed from metal wires which are not connected with the large gratings. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150075958 | TOUCH PANEL - A touch panel includes a first substrate and a plurality of conductive electrodes. The conductive electrodes are located at the first substrate, and each of the conductive electrodes includes at least one mesh electrode. Each of the mesh electrodes includes a plurality of conductive patterns, and the conductive patterns of the same mesh electrode are connected together. Each of the conductive patterns has a central point, and distances from the central point of each of the conductive patterns to the central points of adjacent conductive patterns are incongruent, such that the conductive patterns are arranged in an irregular manner. | 03-19-2015 |
| 20150075959 | TOUCH PANEL - A touch panel including a touch area and a peripheral area adjacent to the touch area is provided. The touch panel includes a plurality of first electrodes, a plurality of second electrodes, a plurality of third electrodes, a plurality of pads and a plurality of wirings. The first electrodes, the second electrodes and the third electrodes are located in the touch area and electrically insulated to each other, wherein the third electrodes expose at least a part of the first electrodes and at least a part of the second electrodes. The pads are located in the peripheral area. The first electrodes, the second electrodes and the third electrodes are electrically connected to the pads through the wirings respectively. | 03-19-2015 |
| 20150083565 | CAPACITANCE TOUCH PANEL MODULE AND FABRICATION METHOD THEREOF - A method of fabricating a capacitance touch panel module includes forming a plurality of first conductive patterns on a substrate comprising a touching area and a peripheral area along a first orientation, a plurality of second conductive patterns along a second orientation, and a plurality of connecting portions in the touching area; forming a plurality of insulated protrusions, in which each insulated protrusion covering one connecting portion, and forming an insulated frame on the peripheral area; and forming a bridging member on each insulated protrusion. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150083566 | CAPACITANCE TOUCH PANEL MODULE AND FABRICATION METHOD THEREOF - A method of fabricating a capacitance touch panel module includes forming a plurality of first conductive patterns on a substrate comprising a touching area and a peripheral area along a first orientation, a plurality of second conductive patterns along a second orientation, and a plurality of connecting portions in the touching area; forming a plurality of insulated protrusions, in which each insulated protrusion covering one connecting portion, and forming an insulated frame on the peripheral area; and forming a bridging member on each insulated protrusion. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150083567 | CAPACITANCE TOUCH PANEL MODULE AND FABRICATION METHOD THEREOF - A method of fabricating a capacitance touch panel module includes forming a plurality of first conductive patterns on a substrate comprising a touching area and a peripheral area along a first orientation, a plurality of second conductive patterns along a second orientation, and a plurality of connecting portions in the touching area; forming a plurality of insulated protrusions, in which each insulated protrusion covering one connecting portion, and forming an insulated frame on the peripheral area; and forming a bridging member on each insulated protrusion. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150090572 | TOUCH PANEL - A touch panel according to the embodiment includes a substrate including an effective area and a dummy area surrounding the effective area; a transparent electrode on the substrate; and an outer dummy layer on the dummy area, wherein the outer dummy layer comprises a piezoelectric material. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150090573 | SILVER NANOSTRUCTURE-BASED OPTICAL STACKS AND TOUCH SENSORS WITH UV PROTECTION - Disclosed herein are optical stacks that are stable to light exposure by incorporating one or more UV-blocking layers. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150090574 | TOUCH PANEL AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - A touch panel is formed by firstly forming a film layer on a first plate, and next, sequentially forming a buffer layer on the film layer, forming a sensing layer on the buffer layer, forming a second plate on the sensing layer. After the foregoing formation procedures, the first plate is removed from the film layer. Next, a cover is attached to the film layer. In this way, the film layer is located between the cover and the buffer layer. Finally, the second plate is removed from the sensing layer, so as to form a touch panel with the features of light weight, thin thickness and low costs. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150101919 | TOUCH PANELS AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING TOUCH PANELS - An exemplary embodiment of the present invention discloses a method of manufacturing a touch panel, the method including, forming a plurality of sensing cells in a first region of a substrate, forming an insulating interlayer on the plurality of sensing cells, removing at least a portion of the insulating interlayer to form contact holes exposing the plurality of sensing cells, and forming a connection pattern and a transparent conductive pattern on the insulating interlayer simultaneously, wherein the connection pattern is electrically connected to adjacent sensing cells, and the transparent conductive pattern is disposed in a second region of the substrate outside of the first region. | 04-16-2015 |
| 20150101920 | CCONDUCTIVE FILM OF A TOUCH PANEL AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - The present disclosure provides a conductive film of a touch panel. The conductive film has a film and a plurality of a plurality of hydrophobic units. The film is used for sensing touch signals, and the hydrophobic units are disposed in the film with intervals. Conductive material of the conductive film of the touch panel is distributed outside the region of the hydrophobic units, and as the hydrophobic units have good light transmittance, the touch panel of the present disclosure has a characteristic of high light transmittance. | 04-16-2015 |
| 20150107977 | TOUCH SCREEN PANEL AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A touch screen panel includes a touch substrate, first sensing electrodes, second sensing electrodes, and outer lines. The touch substrate includes a touch active area and a touch non-active area. The first and second sensing electrodes are disposed in the touch active area and insulated from each other while crossing each other. Each first sensing electrode includes a first sensing metal layer and a first transparent sensing electrode layer. Each second sensing electrode includes a second sensing metal layer and a second transparent sensing electrode layer. Each outer line includes a first outer metal layer, a transparent outer electrode layer, and a second outer metal layer. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150107978 | TOUCH PANEL - A touch panel includes a cover substrate; a first sensing electrode including first unit sensing electrodes spaced apart from each other in a first direction on the cover substrate and first connecting electrodes to connect the first unit sensing electrodes to each other; a second sensing electrode including second unit sensing electrodes spaced apart from each other in a second direction on the cover substrate; and a bridge electrode insulated from the first unit sensing electrodes to connect the second unit sensing electrodes to each other, wherein the bridge electrode includes connecting bridge electrodes to connect the second unit sensing electrodes to each other and second unit bridge electrodes overlapping with the second unit sensing electrodes. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150114815 | TOUCH PANEL AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - The present disclosure provides a touch panel, including a substrate, at least one sensing electrode layer, a wire layer, a first light-shielding layer and a second light-shielding layer. The substrate has a visible region and a non-visible region. The wire layer corresponds to the non-visible region, wherein the wire layer includes signal lines and at least one gap therebetween, the signal lines electrically connect the sensing electrode layer. The first light-shielding layer is disposed within the non-visible region and between the substrate and the wire layer, wherein the first light-shielding layer includes at least one recess and a position of the recess corresponds to a position of the gap. The second light-shielding layer corresponds to the recess, wherein an area covered by the second light-shielding layer is equal to or greater than an aperture of the recess. The present disclosure also provides a method for manufacturing a touch panel. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150122623 | TOUCH PANEL AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A touch panel includes a transparent substrate, a first pattern/layer on the transparent substrate, and an second pattern/layer on or under the first pattern/layer. The first pattern/layer includes first electrodes detecting a first coordinate value and first metal interconnections connecting the first electrodes to a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The second pattern/layer includes second electrodes detecting a second coordinate value and second metal interconnections connecting the second electrodes to the FPCB. The first and second metal interconnections extend on side and back surfaces of the transparent electrode. Therefore, the metal interconnections connect the first and second patterns/layers to the FPCB by being formed on the side and back surfaces of the transparent substrate, which reduces the length and/or width of the bezel (a non-active region). | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150122624 | TOUCH PANEL AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THEREOF - A touch panel including: a substrate; first conductive patterns separately disposed on the substrate with a preset distance therebetween; second conductive patterns formed thereon to separately intersect the first conductive patterns with a preset distance therebetween; a second connecting member configured to connect adjacent second conductive patterns to each other; an insulating pattern configured to cover a preselected region of the second connecting member; and a first connecting member disposed on the insulating pattern to connect adjacent first conductive patterns to each other. The first conductive patterns and the second conductive pattern portion are flexible. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150122625 | TOUCH SCREEN PANEL AND DISPLAY DEVICE - The present invention provides a touch screen panel and a display device which include a plurality of first electrodes arranged in a first direction in parallel; a plurality of second electrodes arranged in a second direction to intersect with the first electrodes; and a cover, wherein a width of at least one electrode of the first electrodes is different from widths of the other first electrodes, a width of at least one electrode of the second electrodes is different from widths of the other second electrodes, or the width of the at least one electrode of the first electrodes is different from the widths of the other first electrodes and the width of the at least one electrode of the second electrodes is different from the widths of the other second electrodes. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150318126 | Method for Producing a Switching Module and an Associated Grid Module, and an Associated Grid Module and Corresponding Electronic Subassembly - A method for producing a switching module that comprises at least one electronic component and at least one cooling element configured to cool the at least one electronic component is disclosed. The method comprises coupling the at least one electronic component with the at least one cooling element, inserting the at least one electronic component and the at least one cooling element into an injection mold, positioning a spring element between the at least one electronic component and an inner side of the injection mold, the spring element being supported on the inner side of the injection mold such that the at least one cooling element is pressed against a wall of the injection mold, and at least partially encapsulating the at least one electronic component and the at least one cooling element with a plastic. | 11-05-2015 |
| 20150349773 | Single Layer Touchscreen with Ground Insertion - A sensor array that has first electrodes, second electrodes and third electrodes formed from a single layer of conductive material and interleaved without intersecting one another, in which each first electrode is coupled with at least one of the second electrodes via a mutual capacitance. Some of the third electrodes are disposed between the first electrodes and the second electrodes. All electrodes are interleaved without intersecting one another. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20160042893 | LEVER SWITCH DEVICE OF SADDLE-TYPE VEHICLE AND INSTALLING METHOD THEREOF - A saddle-type vehicle is provided with a lever switch device for an operation lever for operating a clutch lever or a brake lever of the vehicle, and a band-shaped operation switch is arranged in a longitudinal direction of the operation lever at least on an upper surface thereof. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20170236664 | MULTI-MODE AIR COMPRESSOR PRESSURE POWER SWITCH | 08-17-2017 |
| 20180025866 | TOGGLE SWITCH ACTUATING MECHANISM | 01-25-2018 |
| 20190146132 | SILVER NANOSTRUCTURE-BASED OPTICAL STACKS AND TOUCH SENSORS WITH UV PROTECTION | 05-16-2019 |
| 20090050461 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A CONTROL PANEL THAT REDUCES OVERALL SIZE WHILE PROVIDING INTEGRATED BUTTON PROTECTION FOR FUNCTIONAL ADVANTAGE - An apparatus and method for providing a control panel that reduces overall size while providing integrated button protection for functional advantage. The control panel includes a function activator disposed at a fixed position on panel face of a device and a moveable cover, disposed over the panel face, the moveable cover having a first selection aperture configured to allow selection of a desired function by allowing engagement of a function activator only when the first selection aperture is moved to align with a function activator associated with the desired function. | 02-26-2009 |
| 20090107825 | Annular multi-instruction switch - The preset invention includes a circuit board wired to connect at least one common terminal and a plurality of signal terminals to form multiple instruction switches and an annular click member. Each of the instruction switches has an elastic contact element built with a return force. The circuit board has a plurality of displacement portions. The annular click member has actuating portions corresponding to and engageable with the displacement portions such that the annular click member is movable up and down relative to the circuit board to form a normal position and an instruction generating position. When the annular click member receives a force and is moved to the instruction generating position, a contact depresses the elastic contact element to store the return force When the force is released from the annular click member it is pushed by the return force of the elastic contact element to the normal position. | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090321239 | SET OF CIRCUIT BREAKERS WITH INTERLOCK MEANS - A set of circuit breakers with interlock means, particularly a set of circuit breakers capable of realizing any mechanical interlock and unlock between two or more circuit breakers, wherein in the set of circuit breakers, each circuit breaker has an interlock means, said interlock means comprising a base plate | 12-31-2009 |
| 20100300860 | ARMATURE WINDING SWITCH MODULE AND SWITCHING DEVICE THEREOF - An armature winding switch module has a first connection set, a second connection set and a third connection set. The first, the second and the third connection set are respectively connected between a neutral point and a corresponding phase line point and have terminals and contacts. Each two terminals of each connection set are respectively connected to two ends of a corresponding armature winding of a power supply device. The contacts of each connection set are connected among the corresponding terminals. Selectively turning on/off the contacts can connect the armature windings of each connection set in series or in parallel and thereby output required voltage without redoing wiring work. Therefore the present invention avoids second time complicated wiring work and possible connection faults. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100326809 | Safety switchgear for solar plants - The invention achieves the objective of ensuring that a solar installation mounted on a unit such as, for example, a residential house, can be safely switched off cost-effectively, whereby the consumers are to be galvanically disconnected from the solar installation, and the feed lines leading to the consumers are to be de-energized in case the safety switchgear has triggered a switch-off. A safety switchgear for a solar installation is proposed, whereby the solar installation consists of at least one photovoltaic element, of two connections, each to a feed line leading to a consumer, and said safety switchgear has a bypass that is situated between the two connections and upstream from the feed lines and that has at least one switching mechanism to close the contact points, whereby at least one additional switching mechanism for purposes of opening the contact points is arranged in each of the two feed lines. The invention is characterized in that the at least one switching mechanism in the bypass and the additional switching mechanisms present in each feed line of the photovoltaic installation are arranged, and can be jointly actuated by means of a coupler, in such a way that, when the safety switchgear is actuated, first the contact points of the at least one switching mechanism in each one of the two feed lines is opened and subsequently, with a time delay, the contact points of the at least one switching mechanism, which is situated in the bypass, are closed. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20110005910 | Transformer On-Load Tap Changer Using MEMS Technology - An on-load tap changer (OLTC) for a transformer winding is disclosed. The OLTC includes a first MEMS switch coupled in series with a first tap on the transformer winding and a neutral terminal. The OLTC also includes a second MEMS switch coupled in series with a second tap on the transformer winding and the neutral terminal. The OLTC further includes a controller coupled to the first MEMS switch and the second MEMS switch, the controller configured to coordinate the switching operations of the first MEMS switch module and the second MEMS switch module to obtain a first predetermined turns ratio or a second predetermined turns ratio for the transformer winding. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110036700 | APPARATUS FOR MUTUAL INTERLOCKING OF TWO SWITCHES, IN PARTICULAR CIRCUIT BREAKERS - An apparatus is disclosed for mutual interlocking of two switches, in particular circuit breakers. In at least one embodiment, the apparatus includes two plungers which each engage in one of the two switches and can be moved in the plunger longitudinal direction, wherein, when one switch is being switched on, the plunger which engages in this switch is moved by pivoting of a control disk from its nil-point position to its opening position. In at least one embodiment, the apparatus includes a blocking device which blocks pivoting of the other control disk by moving the plunger to its opening position. In order to achieve a maintenance-free apparatus, in at least one embodiment it is proposed that at least one blocking element of the blocking device is moved by the plunger when this plunger is being moved to its opening position, such that pivoting of the other control disk with respect to the other plunger, which is located in the nil-point position, is blocked. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110056819 | MODULAR TEST SWITCH - A modular test switch assembly includes a plurality of stackable features that may be arranged in a variety of configurations. Each module includes a test switch and includes features to engage adjoining modules in the assembly. The entire test switch assembly is secured together using a retaining rod that is inserted through aligned thru-holes in the assembly. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110147190 | Control Button Having a Single Return Spring for Multiple Buttons - A control device, such as a wireless remote control for a load control system, comprises a return spring that operates to return multiple buttons to respective idle positions resulting in lower cost and complexity of the remote control. Specifically, the remote control comprises a first button having an edge, and a second button having a flange positioned adjacent the edge of the first button, such that the edge of the first button rests on the flange of the second button. The return spring has a first end fixed in location with respect to the housing and a second end contacting the second button for returning to the second button to an idle position after an actuation of the second button. After an actuation of the first button, the return spring causes the flange of the second button to force the first button back to an idle position. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110303518 | INTERLOCK APPARATUS FOR SOLID INSULATED SWITCHGEAR - For a solid-insulated switchgear in which a main circuit switching mechanism and a ground circuit switching mechanism are provided laterally, and there is disclosed an interlock apparatus for the solid-insulated switchgear comprising a first interlock mechanism connected to a switching shaft of the ground circuit switching mechanism to press the on shaft of the main circuit switching mechanism to be at the locking position or release the on shaft of the main circuit switching mechanism; and a second interlock mechanism connected to the switching shaft of the main circuit switching mechanism in an interlocking manner to press the on shaft of the ground circuit switching mechanism to be at the locking position or release the on shaft of the ground circuit switching mechanism. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20120006667 | KEY ASSEMBLY FOR A MOBILE DEVICE - A key assembly for an electronic device comprises at least one key including a body having a first external contact portion and a second external contact portion. The first external contact portion is movable to thereby actuate a first switch of a pair of switches. The second external contact portion is movable to thereby actuate a second switch of the pair of switches. The body of the at least one key pivots about the first external contact portion when the second external contact portion moves to thereby actuate the second switch. The body of the at least one key also pivots about the second external contact portion when the first external contact portion moves to thereby actuate the first switch. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120012449 | DISCONNECTING SWITCH WITH EARTHING SWITCH - Operating shaft | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120073945 | Multipole Electrical Switching Device - A multipole electrical switching device is disclosed with an outer housing in which at least two separate switching pole housings are accommodated. In at least one embodiment, the at least two separate switching pole housings on walls facing towards one another, each have a least one mounting which form a mounting pair assigned to one another. In at least one embodiment, for mechanical connection of the at least two separate switching pole housings, the mounting pair is assigned at least one connection device which engages into the two mountings forming the mounting pair. The two mountings forming the mounting pair, in relation to a dividing joint formed between the two facing walls, each form an undercut, whereby the at least one connecting device engages behind the undercuts and the at least one connecting device is formed in a primary process in one piece on the outer housing. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120152718 | Functional Separating Spacer of the Cartridges in a Multipole Switchgear Device and Circuit Breaker - In order to take maximum advantage of the modularity provided by a multipole circuit breaker ( | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120241300 | Selector Switch Assembly For Load Tap Changer - A selector switch assembly for a load tap changer includes a bevel gear coupled with a motor drive shaft. A shaft assembly is coupled with the bevel gear and a switch is provided for each phase. Each switch includes a helical gear fixed to the shaft assembly, a Geneva pinion gear engaged with the helical gear, a first Geneva gear wheel mounted on a first shaft moved by a first follower of the pinion gear, a first contact arm associated with the first Geneva gear wheel to rotate therewith, a second Geneva gear wheel mounted on a second shaft and moved by a second follower of the pinion gear, and a second contact arm associated with the second Geneva gear wheel so as to rotate therewith. The contact arms include contacts that engage fixed contacts that define tap positions of the load tap changer. | 09-27-2012 |
| 20120325636 | POWER WINDOW SWITCH - A power window switch has a case, a substrate disposed in the case, a window operation knob disposed on the case, a window lock button disposed on a front side of the window operation knob on the case, a window operation switch mechanism disposed in the case and activated in accordance with an operation of the window operation knob, a window lock switch mechanism disposed in the case and activated in accordance with an operation of the window lock button, and a connector having a terminal with a first terminal end protruding from the case and a second terminal end connected to the substrate. The window lock switch mechanism includes two conductive plate springs, and a pressing unit for pressing the plate springs. | 12-27-2012 |
| 20130161174 | MULTI-DIRECTIONAL BUTTON ASSEMBLY AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE - A multi-directional button assembly includes a first switch, a second switch, a support piece, a pressing slice, a center button body, and a directional button body. The first switch and the second switch respectively provide a first trigger point and a second trigger point to be pressed to generate a first trigger signal and a second trigger signal. The support piece is disposed above the first switch and includes an aperture corresponding to the first trigger point. The pressing slice extends from the support piece to a position above the second switch. The center button body includes an extension post and is pressed for driving the extension post to press the first trigger point via the aperture. The directional button body is disposed above the pressing slice and is pressed to bias the pressing slice to press the second trigger point without pressing the first trigger point. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130327623 | SWITCHGEAR - A bus is placed at the center of a housing. Breakers and cables forming branch circuits branching from the bus are placed at the upper and lower stages in the housing, being displaced in the right-left direction. Spaces formed between the side wall of the housing and the side walls of an upper-stage breaker compartment and an upper-stage cable compartment containing the upper-stage apparatuses are used as paths leading to the housing ceiling for a bus compartment, and a lower-stage breaker compartment and a lower-stage cable compartment containing the lower-stage apparatuses. The bus compartment and all the apparatus compartments each directly lead to a ceiling portion of the housing and have an opening portion. Pressure discharge plates are provided on the opening portions. | 12-12-2013 |
| 20140144763 | Power Disconnect Switch - The present invention is a mechanical device used in the mining industry. The switching device is attached to air lock doors preventing air-changes in mines thus providing a safer work environment for miners. The power disconnect switch provides for a long felt need in the mining industry to provide fresh, breathable air to any person working in mines. The switching device is attached to air lock doors preventing air-changes in mines thus providing a safer work environment for miners. This power disconnect switching device is attached to air lock doors and thus prevents air-changes in mines further, providing a safer work environment for miners. | 05-29-2014 |
| 20150014138 | SWITCH DEVICE FOR SUNROOF - A switch device for a sunroof includes: a glass switch piece, which is switchable between glass opening positions and a glass closing position, which are for selecting whether to open or close the opening of a sunroof with a roof glass; and a shade switch piece, which is switchable between a shade opening position and a shade closing shade positions, which are for selecting whether to open or close the opening with of a roof shade. The shade closing positions include a first closing position and a second closing position. The switch device is provided with an interlocking portion, which links the glass switch piece to the shade switch piece so that the glass switch piece is moved into the glass closing position when the shade switch piece is moved to the second closed position. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20110062010 | SWITCH DEVICE FOR VEHICLE - A switch device for a vehicle including: a first switch that enables input by a rotation operation or a tilting operation; a second switch that enables input by a predetermined operation; an operation direction detector that detects the operation direction of the rotation direction of the first switch or the tilting operation of the first switch; and a controller that is capable of controlling an on-vehicle equipment in accordance with the input operations to the first switch and the second switch, wherein the controller, in the case of the second switch being located substantially on an extension of the operation direction of the first switch, prohibits execution of a control of the on-vehicle equipment in accordance with an input operation to the second switch until a predetermined time from after the operation direction of the first switch is detected by the operation direction detector elapses. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20140001021 | PRESS KEY | 01-02-2014 |
| 20090020404 | KEYBOARD - A keyboard is disclosed as including at least a key and two switches associated with each key, in which the key includes at least a first, a second, a third, a fourth, a fifth and a sixth legs, in which only one of the first and second legs is movable to activate a respective of the switches at a time, and the third and fourth legs are movable to each activate a respective of the switches in succession in a first order of activation of the switches, and the said fifth and sixth legs are movable to each activate a respective of the switches in succession in a second order of activation of the switches. | 01-22-2009 |
| 20090038926 | DOUBLE-SHOT MOLDED BUTTON AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - A double-shot molded button includes a main portion including an operation surface and at least one inserted portion embedded in the main portion. The inserted portion includes an exposed surface exposed from the operation surface to configure a symbol for denoting an operation function and being pressed. An orthographic projection image of the inserted portion on the exposed surface is enclosed within the exposed surface. A method for making the double-shot molded button is also provided. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090107826 | NAVIGATION KEY OF ELECTRONIC DEVICE - An electronic device includes a circuit board and a navigation key arranged on the circuit board. The circuit board forms a number of switches thereon. The navigation key includes a key cap, a frame, and a number of elastic connecting arms The key cap includes an annular operating portion configured for pressing, and a number of actuators extending from the operating portion towards the circuit board. Each actuator hangs above one corresponding switch, and contacts with the corresponding switch when the operation portion of the navigation key is pressed. The frame is arranged around the key cap, and is fixedly assembled to the circuit board. The elastic connecting arms interconnect the operation portion of the key cap and the frame to limit rotation of the key cap. | 04-30-2009 |
| 20100084252 | TWO-STAGE SWITCH ASSEMBLY - A switch assembly is provided to actuate a pair of switches using a single push key, e.g. for a camera that utilizes a first switch to activate an image focusing function and a second switch to activate a camera shutter. The switch assembly comprises a contact pad switch and a dome switch that are located laterally to one another. When the push key receives a first downward force, only the contact pad switch becomes activated and a first electric circuit is completed. When the push key receives a second downward force that is greater than the first force, the dome switch collapses and a second electric circuit is completed. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100163389 | Thin-type keycap structure, keypad structure including the same, and method of making the same - A thin-type keycap structure comprising a key cap layer and a plastic film on the upper surface of the key cap layer. The thin-type keycap structure and the metal dome on a PCB are assembled to form a keypad structure. The thin-type keycap structure is made through compression molding of the plastic film and a resin together. The surface of the plastic film may be embossed before the compression molding. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20110259725 | ELECTRICAL SWITCH FOR NAUTICAL EQUIPMENT - The disclosure concerns an electrical switch for nautical equipment. The switch comprises electric actuation means, which in turn comprise at least one control button, able to be connected to an external electric circuit, and a housing of such electric actuation means. Advantageously, the switch also comprises a covering element that is moveable with respect to the housing between a first position, at which the button can be directly activated by the user by just inserting a finger into a suitable recess, and a second position, at which the covering element prevents direct access to the button and is itself moveable by the user in the direction towards the button for its activation. When the covering element is in the second position, the activation of the button can be obtained by pressing the covering element with a foot or with a hand. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20130105293 | ELECTRICAL SWITCH | 05-02-2013 |
| 20130306457 | MULTI-DIRECTIONAL KEY ASSEMBLY - A multi-directional key assembly is mounted on an electronic device to control the electronic device, and has a pressing module, a circuit board, and a housing. The pressing module has a flexible first panel, at least one dividing groove, multiple pressing portions, and multiple first contact elements. The at least one dividing groove divides the first contact elements from one another. Each pressing portion corresponds to and drives one of the first contact elements. The circuit board has multiple signal generators respectively corresponding to the first contact elements. The housing has multiple dividing protrusions protruding toward the first panel. The dividing grooves and the dividing protrusions divide the first panel into multiple sections. Thus, when one of the pressing portions is pressed, only one of the first contact elements moves. The other first contact elements do not move simultaneously. | 11-21-2013 |
| 20090194404 | PRESSING-TYPE INPUT DEVICE - A pressing-type input device includes an operation part and pressure sensors that are provided on the lower surface of the operation part. The operation part includes an operation region where the pressure sensors are provided, and an outer region that is formed outside the operation region. An inner portion of the operation region is locally more flexible than the outer region that is formed outside the operation region. | 08-06-2009 |
| 20120234661 | SWITCH DEVICE - A switch device includes an operation knob; a supporting shaft that swingably supports the operation knob; a board substantially parallel to the supporting shaft; a first push button switch located on one side of a surface that includes the supporting shaft and is perpendicular to the board, and provided on the board to be operated by swing of the operation knob; a second push button switch located on another side of the perpendicular surface, and provided on the board to be operated by the swing of the operation knob; and a third push button switch intersecting the perpendicular surface, and provided on the board to be operated by the swing of the operation knob. A first point of effort of a force acting on the first push button switch in the operation knob is located on the one side, spaced from the perpendicular surface. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20080223705 | Touch-sensing device and sensing method for electrical apparatus - The invention discloses a touch-sensing device for an electrical apparatus. The touch-sensing device, according to the invention, includes a sensing panel, a detector, and a controller. The sensing panel includes an inner sensing region and an outer sensing region. The inner sensing region, disposed on the sensing panel, is substantially divided into a plurality of equivalent inner sensing sub-regions. The outer sensing region, disposed on the sensing panel, is at the outer edge of the inner sensing region. The outer sensing region is substantially divided into a plurality of equivalent outer sensing sub-regions. The detector is electrically connected to the inner sensing region and the outer sensing region. When an object contacts a region of the inner sensing sub-regions or the outer sensing sub-regions, the detector generates a corresponding detected signal. The controller is used to receive the detected signal. | 09-18-2008 |
| 20080223706 | INPUT DEVICE - A flat-type input unit capable of outputting information regarding a position where a finger touches as coordinate data is provided in a casing of an input device. A main-switch unit and sub-switch units operated by the flat-type input unit are also provided in the casing. When ON output signals are simultaneously supplied from the main-switch unit and one of the sub-switch units, the flat-type input unit determines a position where the finger touches by performing a detection operation. It can be determined on the basis of the position whether the main-switch unit or the sub-switch unit is controlled. Moreover, since pressing any position of the flat-type input unit can cause the main-switch unit to supply an ON output signal, a confirmation input can be performed easily with the ON output signal supplied from the main-switch unit. | 09-18-2008 |
| 20080223707 | METHOD AND APPARATUS TO IMPROVE TACTILE FEEL FOR KEYBOARDS AND BUTTON ASSEMBLIES - A keyboard for an electronic device that incorporates a flexible carrier for the keys. The flexible carrier has cutouts or slots that aid in decoupling the actions of one from its neighbors. Moreover, in addition to or instead of cutouts or slots, the flexible carrier optionally has cutouts around its outer perimeter. In some embodiments, the keys are molded as part of the flexible carrier. In other embodiments, the keys are attached to or inserted in the flexible carrier during manufacture. Various embodiments of the invention employ various key shapes to aid the user's tactile experience while typing. | 09-18-2008 |
| 20080237017 | EASY-TO-CLEAN KEYPAD DEVICE - Keypad devices have become commonplace in everyday life. They are part of our everyday life, in the form of pocket calculators, telephones, remote control devices, and cellular phones. Cleaning these keypad devices is problematic, since they have a large number of actuatable keys, due to the functions to be performed. As a mechanical interface in the keypad device, each key is a critical weak point in terms of maintaining a tight seal. An easy-to-clean keypad device, in particular an emergency call device, has a main body, an electronic assembly—which includes circuit elements and is installed in main body—a closing shell and keys, which are installed in closing shell and are designed to mechanically actuate the circuit elements. Closing shell with installed keys is a first preinstalled assembly, and main body with installed electronic assembly is a second preinstalled assembly. The first and second preinstalled assemblies are interconnected such that they may be separated. | 10-02-2008 |
| 20080237018 | INPUT DEVICE AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - An input device for constructing an inputting operation unit for various electronic apparatus and a method of manufacturing the input device are provided. The input device allows push-down inputting operation and position inputting operation using the same operating unit. The input device has a position input sensor provided under a key, and a base sheet having a movable contact joined to its bottom face depending on the location where the key is disposed, and a columnar section is disposed in a manner sandwiched between the position input sensor and the base sheet at the center of the movable contact. | 10-02-2008 |
| 20080245646 | SELF-CONFIGURING OPERATOR CONTROL - An operator control assembly including at least one operator control mounted in a panel cover or dashboard with at least one opening for receivably mounting the operator control, and at least one printed circuit board mounted beneath the panel cover. A unique configuration of projecting members on the bottom of the operator control comes in contract with and engages sensors mounted on the printed circuit board. Depending on the number and arrangement of the projecting members a unique subset o sensors t engaged, providing a unique electronic ID for each operator control installed. This electronic ID can then be transmitted to an electronic control unit, which will alter its operation based on the types o operator controls currently installed. | 10-09-2008 |
| 20080251365 | INPUT DEVICE - An electronic device, e.g. a mobile telephone, may comprise an input device such as a rocker key device for operating functions in the electronic device. The input device may comprise a switch device with at least one switch pad mounted on a support structure, and an input actuator for actuating the switch device. Each switch pad comprises a plurality of press detection switches. Each press detection switch of the multiple press detection switches is configured to output a signal upon depression of the press detection switch, when the switch pad is actuated by means of the input actuator. | 10-16-2008 |
| 20080257704 | Compound operation input device - A compound operation input device includes: an first operating body that can be pressed in a direction substantially orthogonal to a circuit board; an second operating body of annular shape, disposed around the first operating body and substantially parallel to the circuit board, tilt operable, and rotatably operable; a first switch actuable in response to pressing movement of the first operating body; second switches independently actuable in response to tilt movement of the second operating body; an attachment having an outer portion, the second operating body being provided with the outer portion, and an inner portion facing the second face of the first operating body; and a rotation detector for detecting rotation of the second operating body. The rotation detector is attached to an inner portion of the attachment and disposed in a space between the circuit board and the first operating body and inside the second switches. | 10-23-2008 |
| 20080283378 | SMALL FORM-FACTOR KEYBOARD USING KEYS WITH OFFSET PEAKS AND PITCH VARIATIONS - A small form-factor keyboard or keypad for key structures is provided in which individual key structures have a contact surface on which there is a center reference and a peak. The center reference and the peak or offset, so that an offset distance between the center reference and the peak is greater than or equal to zero. The offset distance for at least two or more key structures in the plurality of key structures may different. The difference in the offset distance may be based on a position of the individual key structures relative to a first reference line. | 11-20-2008 |
| 20080308397 | Keyboard - A keyboard includes a key module and a base. The key module includes at least a second anchor portion. The base has a first anchor portion corresponding to the second anchor portion that is engageable with each other to couple the key module with the base. The base further has a signal transmission module to form electric connection with the key module. The keyboard thus formed is thinner. Assembly is simpler and production cost is lower. | 12-18-2008 |
| 20090057121 | Key Base, Key Sheet and Method of Forming Key Base - The present invention has an object thereof is to provide a key base which can be thinned, a key sheet which can be thinned and a method of forming a key base which can be thinned. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090065342 | Dome switch, method of manufacturing the same, and keypad assembly having the same - Provided is a dome switch including soldering pads formed at an upper surface of a circuit board and spaced a certain distance from one another, and a dome switch fixed to the soldering pads at two ends of the dome switch. Since the dome switch is directly fixed to the circuit board, even if a degree of fatigue of the dome switch increases due to long term use thereof, it is possible to prevent deformation of the dome switch, thereby increasing the reliability of products. | 03-12-2009 |
| 20090090609 | Rotating Dual Switching Mechanism - The present invention provides a rotating dual switching mechanism comprising: a first switch ( | 04-09-2009 |
| 20090095611 | ELECTRICAL SWITCH WITH MULTIPLE SWITCHING CHANNELS - An electrical switch with multiple switching channels may include a frame, a panel with which a pointing element comes into contact. The electrical switch may have a location element which locates the point of contact of the pointing element on the panel which may include a plurality of switching elements. The electrical switch may have a detection element which detects at least one control action independent of the position of the point of contact with the panel. The electrical switch may have an intermediate plate on which the panel acts in order to cause the change in state of the switching elements. The intermediate plate may be configured to cause the change in state of switching elements and detection element. The plate can be at least in part deformed in order to actuate the detection element after changing the state of the switching elements. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090107823 | Light-emitting keyboard - A light-emitting keyboard includes an upper cover with a plurality of keystrokes, a printed circuit board (PCB) connected to a connector via a cable, a lower cover, and an electric luminescent (EL) plate connected to the PCB via a transformer. The transformer is configured for receiving power from the PCB. The EL plate is arranged between the upper cover and the lower cover. The upper cover and the keystrokes are made of transparent material. | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090107824 | INPUT PANEL AND PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE USING THE SAME - An input panel for a portable electronic device including a switch sheet, a touch-sensing sheet and an interposing sheet is provided. The switch sheet includes a circuit board and at least one dome switch. The circuit board has at least one contact pad, and the dome switch is disposed on the contact pad. The touch-sensing sheet is disposed on the switch sheet for sensing a touch action. The interposing sheet is disposed between the switch sheet and the touch-sensing sheet. The touch-sensing sheet contacts the dome switch when the touch-sensing sheet is pressed, so that the dome switch is deformed elastically to switch on the contact pad. | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090114516 | METALLIC PANEL ASSEMBLY HAVING RIPPLE LUSTER - A metallic panel assembly having a ripple luster includes an elastic layer, an adhesive layer, a metallic keypad panel, an electroplated layer and an ultraviolet curable resin layer. The elastic layer has a carrier. The carrier is provided thereon with a plurality of protrusions. The adhesive layer is provided on one side surface of the carrier. The metallic keypad panel is provided on one side surface of the adhesive layer and has a thin plate thereon. The plate is provided thereon with a first hollowed portion and a second hollowed portion. The first hollowed portion is set as a pressing region of a key, and the second hollowed portion is set as an icon on the surface of the pressing region. The electroplated layer is provided on one side surface of the metallic keypad panel and penetrates into the first hollowed portion and the second hollowed portion. The ultraviolet curable resin layer is provided on one side surface of the electroplated layer to seal and fill the first hollowed portion and the second hollowed portion. The ultraviolet curable resin layer has a carrier thereon, and one side surface of the carrier is provided with a pattern surface. When external light illuminates the pattern surface of the metallic keypad panel, the pattern surface generates a reflective effect of a ripple luster. | 05-07-2009 |
| 20090134000 | SWITCH CONFIGURATION - A switch configuration for use with a keyboard comprises a plurality of support structures positioned adjacent each other in spaced relation and a plurality of dome switches, with at least one dome switch being coupled to each of the plurality of support structures. A keyboard and mobile communication device incorporate the switch configuration. | 05-28-2009 |
| 20090139847 | CONTROL PANEL ASSEMBLY FOR LAUNDRY DEVICE - A control panel assembly of a laundry device is disclosed, by which a manipulation of buttons ( | 06-04-2009 |
| 20090166169 | KEY-PRESS STRUCTURE AND A METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - In one aspect, a key-press structure comprises a frame and a plurality of keys disposed in said frame. Said frame comprises a main portion and two reflecting portions. The main portion has two opposite sides and the two reflecting portions are disposed on the two opposite sides of the main portion, respectively. Said reflecting portion has a reflective surface facing toward the main portion. Said keys are made of a transparent material, and the keys comprise characters formed on the internal surface of said keys. In another aspect, a method of preparing a key-press structure comprises forming a frame that includes a main portion and two reflecting portions. The reflecting portions each have a reflective surface. The main portion has two opposite sides that is connected to the two reflecting portions. The method further comprises forming characters on the internal surface of a plurality of keys, and disposing said keys in the main portion of the frame. | 07-02-2009 |
| 20090173613 | Electronic Key - The aim of the invention is to provide a simple and economical embodiment of an electronic key comprising dimensionally stable push buttons ( | 07-09-2009 |
| 20090173614 | ENHANCED KEY STRUCTURE WITH COMBINED KEYCAP FOR A MOBILE COMPUTING DEVICE - A key structure assembly is provided for a mobile computing device. The key structure assembly includes a keycap having at least a first segment and a second segment. A first actuation member extends inward into the housing from the first segment of the keycap, and a second actuation member extends inward from the second segment of the key cap. A substrate including a plurality of electrical connects, including a first electrical contact aligned underneath the first actuation member, and a second electrical contact aligned underneath the second actuation member. The keycap is moveable inward to direct either the first actuation member into contact with the first electrical contact, or the second actuation member into contact with the second electrical contact. One or more sections of material are positioned above the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact. The material for the one or more sections is formed from a material that deforms with inward movement of either the first segment or the second segment of the keycap. A layer formed by a thickness of the one or more sections of material extending over the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact is non-uniform in either dimension or amount of material. | 07-09-2009 |
| 20090178911 | KEY DOME ASSEMBLY WITH IMPROVED TACTILE FEEDBACK - A dome assembly for use in a keyboard assembly of an electronic device is provided. The dome assembly includes a deflectable dome shaped element having a concave surface terminating at a periphery and a number of elevating members disposed on the element adjacent the periphery and protruding away from the concave surface. The elevating members serve to space the periphery from a mounting surface. The element is movable between an undeflected position and a deflected position. | 07-16-2009 |
| 20090178912 | MULTI-DIRECTIONAL KEY AND KEY ASSEMBLY - A multi-directional key for an electronic device includes a hollow frame a key substrate, a multi-directional key body, and a supporting frame. The hollow frame includes a pair of first opposite parallel bars and a pair of second opposite parallel bars. Perpendicular planes of the first opposite parallel bars and perpendicular planes of the second opposite parallel bars are substantially perpendicular to each other. Each of two opposite sides of the key substrate is correspondingly connected to each of the first opposite parallel bars of the hollow frame by a pair of first connection portions. The multi-directional key body is positioned on the key substrate. The supporting frame is connected to the second opposite parallel bars of the hollow frame by a pair of second connection portions. A key assembly employing the multi-directional key is also provided. | 07-16-2009 |
| 20090188780 | SWITCH DEVICE - A switch device, includes a device main body incorporating a fixed pressure contact portion and includes a fixed sliding contact portion that forms a circuit together with the fixed pressure contact portion, and at least one pair of switches supported on the device main body, each switch comprising an operating knob. One switch of the at least one pair of switches includes a pressure-operated switch includes a movable pressure contact portion corresponding to the fixed pressure contact portion, and another switch includes a slide-operated switch includes a movable sliding contact portion corresponding to the fixed sliding contact portion. | 07-30-2009 |
| 20090200148 | KEY SHEET - Provided is a key sheet allowing reliable sliding operation input through accurate coordinate position detection and depressing operation input of satisfactory depression operability through clear click feel. Fixation layers are formed at positions under depressing operation portions, and there are no fixation layers in portions around the depressing operation portions but gaps are formed. With this construction, it is possible to suppress a depression operation load to a low level at a time of depressing input operation, and, when contact switches with click feel are depressed, the click feel can be easily transmitted. Further, a surface sheet has movable contact portions which enter the gaps at a time of sliding input operation and which are displaced so as to be capable of coming into contact with a sensor sheet. With this construction, it is possible to sense, in a stable manner, capacitance at an in-plane position of a sliding operation surface of the sensor sheet. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090205943 | PANEL SWITCH - A panel switch includes an insulating substrate, a resist layer provided on an upper surface of the insulating substrate, a cover sheet, an adhesive layer bonded onto an upper surface of the resist layer, and plural push switches activated upon being pressed via the cover sheet. The resist layer has plural contact openings and a communication opening provided therein. The contact openings and the communication opening exposes the upper surface of the insulating substrate from the contact openings and the communication opening. The communication opening allows the contact openings to communicate with each other. The adhesive layer is provided entirely on a lower surface of the cover sheet and covers the contact openings and the communication opening. The push switches are accommodated in the contact openings, respectively. In this panel switch, the adhesive layer can easily be printed on the cover sheet and bond the cover sheet securely to the insulating substrate. | 08-20-2009 |
| 20090236210 | KEYBOARD ASSEMBLY - A keyboard assembly is provided. The keyboard assembly includes a keyboard having at least one input key assembly positioned within the housing and an infection controllable apparatus attached thereto. | 09-24-2009 |
| 20090242374 | KEY SWITCH SHEET AND KEY SWITCH MODULE - A key switch sheet has a pressure sensitive adhesive layer for holding a contact spring by adhering to an apex portion of a dome-shaped contact spring at a back surface of a base material sheet. A thickness of the pressure sensitive adhesive layer at a region to be made to adhere to the apex portion of the contact spring is thicker than a thickness of the pressure sensitive adhesive layer at a peripheral region. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090242375 | COMMUNICATION TERMINAL HAVING HOUSING WITH KEY BUTTONS COUPLED THERETO - A communication terminal including a housing having elastic key buttons integrally coupled thereto is provided. The housing is configured to define an external appearance of the communication terminal. Each of the key buttons may have one end thereof integrally coupled to the housing and a free end at an opposite end thereof. A plurality of key-input switches may be respectively positioned beneath each key button. Each of the key-input switches may detect a corresponding key-input when the free end of the key button is brought into contact with the key-input switch. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090250328 | INPUT DEVICE WITH A FLEXIBLE CIRCUIT BOARD AND RELATED COMPUTER SYSTEM - An input device includes a body, and a flexible circuit board connected to the body and receivable inside the body. A plurality of keys is disposed on the flexible circuit board. The input device further includes a signal transmission module installed inside the body and electrically connected to the flexible circuit board for transmitting data corresponding to signals generated by the plurality of keys to a host. | 10-08-2009 |
| 20090250329 | Touch keypad assembly - A touch keypad assembly ( | 10-08-2009 |
| 20090260969 | OPERATING DEVICE, INFORMATION PROCESSING TERMINAL INCLUDING THE OPERATING DEVICE, AND ASSEMBLY METHOD FOR THE OPERATING DEVICE AND THE INFORMATION PROCESSING TERMINAL - The simplification of a mounting structure of a side surface operation part, the simplification of the mounting process, and the reduction of the manufacturing cost can be realized. | 10-22-2009 |
| 20090260970 | KEYSWITCH AND KEYBOARD - The invention discloses a keyswitch and a keyboard which applies the keyswitch. The keyswitch includes a scissors-like supporting structure and a keycap. The scissors-like supporting structure includes a first arm member. The first arm member has a first axle. A retaining member is formed at the bottom of the keycap. The retaining member has a retaining portion and a block. The distal end of the retaining portion and the distal end of the block form an opening. | 10-22-2009 |
| 20090266696 | SHEET-SWITCH MODULE - A sheet-switch module includes a substrate; a plurality of switches formed on the substrate; a light guiding sheet disposed above the plurality of switches and having a plurality of protruding portions formed on a surface thereof facing each of the switches, each of the protruding portions being disposed to face a respective switch; and a light source disposed at one end of the substrate and causing light to enter the light guiding sheet, at least one of the plurality of protruding portions of the light guiding sheet having a light-shielding portion at a position of location of the at least one of the plurality of protruding portions. The light-shielding portion is configured by a light-shielding portion provided at least one of a peripheral surface and a peripheral edge of the protruding portions on an opposite side to a surface close to and facing the light source, or is configured by a light-shielding portion provided at a contact portion of the protruding portions and the switches. | 10-29-2009 |
| 20090266697 | Handheld device - A pair of side keys disposed on a lateral plate casing of a stationary-side rear case in a cellular phone is coupled with a film sheet that is fabricated in a substantially identical length to the length of the pair of side keys. The pair of side keys is coupled with the film sheet by applying double-faced adhesive tapes having adhesive faces on both sides only to both ends of the film sheet. | 10-29-2009 |
| 20090301855 | ROTATABLE INPUTTING APPARATUS - Disclosed herein is a rotatable inputting apparatus. When a circuit board of the rotatable inputting apparatus is coupled to a main circuit board of a terminal or remote control, the rotatable inputting apparatus of the invention allows reference points of the boards to be instinctively recognized without the necessity of forming reference projections or using screws, thus enabling its easy assembly. The rotatable inputting apparatus includes a wheel having a ring magnet, a support having a pressure pin, a center key moving in a vertical direction, a dome seat including a central dome button and peripheral dome buttons, a circuit board to which the dome seat is attached, and a connecting guide which is secured to the circuit board and has a connecting part. The connecting part passes through the circuit board and is inserted into the main circuit board. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090321238 | Conductive Webs Containing Electrical Pathways and Method For Making Same - Presented is a variety of products and apparatuses employing a conductive nonwoven web. Products and apparatuses include an RFID system, a radiofrequency shielding system, a flexible electronic circuit component, a heating element, an antenna, an electromagnetic energy shield, a membrane switch, a keypad, and a packaging system. In one embodiment, the conductive nonwoven web contains conductive carbon fibers in combination with pulp fibers and/or synthetic fibers. Electric pathways are formed into the conductive material using ultrasonic energy. The electric pathways can be used to produce various electronic devices. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20100018848 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY - A key assembly ( | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100025214 | Unitized Appliance Control Panel Assembly and Components of the Assembly - An electronics enclosure and associated components form a self-contained, unitized assembly including control buttons and illuminated indicator elements, that can be mated as a single piece with an outer user interface control panel fascia. A front panel of the electronics enclosure provides a mounting location for various buttons and lighted indicators that will show through mating apertures provided in the control panel fascia. This may include light pipe collars and integral spring levers. Specially configured cup structures may be integrally molded at the ends of the spring levers to provide electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. A mount of planar spring button pieces on the front enclosure panel, over the associated spring levers, results in an assembly incorporating two springs serving to bias the associated button to its return position, and eliminating any rattle or looseness of the parts. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100038227 | Touch detected voice-prompted 2-stage keypad - The present invention discloses a touch detected voice-prompted 2-stage keypad. The keypad has a touching detector switch (first stage) and a contact switch (second stage). The touching signal of a finger is identified by the detector and then input to the microprocessor, a number or a function (voice) represent this keypad is output to a speaker, the user confirms that this keypad is the required one, thus press the contact switch to output a signal to the microprocessor to execute the function of this key. The touch detected voice-prompted 2-stage key may form an array of numbers and/or functions, and control by touching instead of viewing. It is convenient in the night, for a blind or weak sighted people. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100044201 | CONTROL KEY UNIT FOR TELEVISION RECEIVER - A control key unit for a television receiver includes a rectangular wiring board, a key switch and a frame. The frame is configured to be attached to a cabinet of the television receiver and supports the wiring board. The frame is integrally formed as a one-piece, unitary member. The frame includes a front panel, a clamping section, a lengthwise positioning section and a lateral positioning section. The front panel has a push operated key top overlying the key switch. The clamping section clamps the wiring board in a thickness direction of the wiring board. The clamping section positions the wiring board in the thickness direction. The lengthwise positioning section positions the wiring board in a lengthwise direction of the wiring board. The lateral positioning section positions the wiring board in a width direction of the wiring board. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100044202 | ELECTRIC OPERATING DEVICE OF VEHICLE SEAT - An electric operating device includes an operation member for operating to activate a plurality of electric functions provided at a vehicle seat. The operation member is disposed at a position outside of the vehicle seat allowing operation by a seated person seated on the vehicle seat. The operation member is constructed to be capable of operating to pivot about an axis and operating to move to slide in a diametrical direction. Further, an operation structure for pivoting about the axis for switching a pivoting position of the operation member is configured as an electric function mode switching structure for selecting the electric function as an operational object from the plurality of electric functions. Further, a slide moving operating structure for switching a slide position in the diametrical direction of the operation member is configured as an activation control structure for operating to activate the electric function selected as the operational object. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100044203 | PORTABLE TERMINAL - In a portable terminal, a plurality of operation keys | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100051432 | Membrane type computer keyboard - A computer keyboard includes a base membrane and a upper membrane each having a number of electric contacts aligned with each other, a spacer layer disposed between the membranes for separating the contacts of the membranes from each other and having a number of openings aligned with the contacts of the membranes for allowing the contacts of the upper membrane to be actuated to engage with the contacts of the base membrane, and a number of symbols aligned with the contacts of the membranes for indicating the contacts of the membranes. A graphic overlay is attached onto the upper membrane, and the symbols are applied onto the graphic overlay or applied onto the base membrane. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100051433 | Multi-point touch-sensitive device - A touch-sensitive device includes a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer. The first conductive layer has at least a first edge and a second edge. The second edge is substantially parallel to the first edge and there is a voltage drop across the first conductive layer between the first edge and the second edge when a power supply is coupled to the first edge and the second edge. The second conductive layer is separated from the first conductive layer by a spacer layer. The second conductive layer includes multiple electrically isolated conductive regions. When a plurality of the conductive regions are in contact with the first conductive layer simultaneously, each of the plurality of the conductive regions generates an output signal and the magnitude of the output signal depends at least in part upon the conductive region's position relative to the first and second edges. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100051434 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE USING THE SAME - An exemplary keypad assembly includes a printed circuit board (PCB) including a plurality of fixed contact points, an elastic member disposed on the printed circuit board; a plurality of metallic domes fixed to the elastic member between the printed circuit board and the elastic member. Each of the metallic domes corresponds to each of the fixed contact points, and each metallic dome covers each fixed contact point. The keypad assembly has a thin configuration due to a combination configuration of the typical metallic dome sheet and the elastic member. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100051435 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH KEY ASSEMBLY - An electronic device includes an enclosure accommodating a plurality of electronic elements therein, a circuit board positioned in the enclosure and spaced from the panel, and a key assembly positioned between the panel and the circuit board. The enclosure includes a panel defining an opening. The circuit board includes a plurality of switches. The key assembly includes a plurality of key bodies protruding out from the opening of the panel and movable relative to the panel, and a supporting frame attached to the panel for supporting and fixing the plurality of key bodies. The switches are positioned under the plurality of key bodies. Movement of a portion each of the plurality of key bodies along a first direction allows movement of another portion of each of the key bodies along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction to open or close a corresponding switch. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100051436 | KEY INPUT DEVICE - In a voltage dividing circuit, a first circuit where only a first switch is connected, a second circuit where a first resistor and a second switch are connected in series, a third circuit where a second resistor and a third switch are connected in series and a fourth circuit where a third resistor and a fourth switch are connected in series are connected in parallel. One end of the parallel circuit is connected to a limit resistor and the other end of the parallel circuit is connected to a ground point. One switch is provided between a connecting point in one circuit and a connecting point in another circuit, and each resistor of at least two circuits is connected in parallel by said one switch. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100059353 | ELECTRICAL ACTUATOR SYSTEM - An electrical actuator system, especially for adjustable articles of furniture, comprising at least one electric actuator for bringing about the adjustment, a mains based power supply and possibly also rechargeable batteries, a control unit and a hand ( | 03-11-2010 |
| 20100059354 | KEYBOARD AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE - A keyboard and an electronic device are provided. The electronic device includes a host, a display module and a keyboard. The display module is electrically connected to the host. The keyboard is electrically connected to the host. The keyboard includes a circuit membrane, a lighting film and a plurality of keycaps. The circuit membrane has a plurality of key contacts. The circuit membrane and the lighting film are stacked, and the lighting film emits light with different wavelengths according to different voltages applied thereon. The keycaps are disposed on the circuit membrane and the lighting film and located above the key contacts. | 03-11-2010 |
| 20100059355 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE USED FOR MEASURING AND DETECTING THE VARIATIONS OF AT LEAST ONE INPUT SIGNAL - An electronic device used for measuring and detecting the variations of at least one input signal, comprising a first component (OSC | 03-11-2010 |
| 20100065409 | KEYBOARD AND KEYSWITCH - The invention discloses a keyswitch including a keycap, a base plate, and a support frame. The keycap includes an engagement part, and the base plate includes a slide part. The support frame is between the keycap and the base plate and includes a first end and a second end. The first end is connected to the engagement part of the keycap, and the second end slides in the slide part of the base plate. The engagement part includes a first concave part and a second concave part, and a radial dimension of the first concave part is different from a radial dimension of the second concave part. The first end of the support frame includes a first protrusion part and a second protrusion part, and a radial dimension of the first protrusion part is different from a radial dimension of the second protrusion part. The first protrusion part and the second protrusion part respectively are engaged with the first concave part and the second concave part respectively. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100078303 | MECHANICAL ARCHITECTURE FOR DISPLAY KEYBOARD KEYS - Mechanical architecture for providing maximum viewing area on key button tops of keys for a user input device. The viewing area is for the display of information on the key buttons, and also includes tactile feedback similar to standard laptop keyboards, all using low cost manufacturing methods such as injection molding. The architecture optimizes an aperture through the core of the key switch assembly in order to project an image through the aperture and onto the display area of the key button. The architecture relocates in at least one embodiment the tactile feedback mechanism (e.g., dome assembly) out from underneath the key button to the perimeter or side of the key switch assembly. The architecture finds particular application to input devices such as keyboards, game pods, data entry device, etc., that operate in combination with an optical surface (e.g., wedge lens). | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100084251 | DUAL-ACTION SINGLE-KEY MECHANISM - A switch assembly is provided to actuate a pair of switches using a single key cap, e.g. for a camera that utilizes a first switch to activate an image focusing function and a second switch to activate a camera shutter. The switch assembly comprises an inner switch and an outer switch, wherein the outer switch, partially or completely surrounds the perimeter of the inner switch. The outer switch comprises an upper conductive surface and a lower conductive surface that, when in contact, electrically couples two terminals for closing a circuit. The inner switch comprises an actuator and a dome switch. When the key cap receives a first downward force, only the outer switch becomes activated and a first electric circuit is completed. When the key cap receives a second downward force that is greater than the first force, the dome switch collapses and a second electric circuit is completed. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100089735 | HAPTIC KEYBOARD APPARATUS AND METHOD - A haptic keyboard apparatus includes a membrane resistor keyboard device and a haptic device. The membrane resistor keyboard device includes a plurality of key switches, each of the key switches being responsive to touch by a user. The haptic device is coupled to the membrane resistor keyboard device. The haptic device includes a plurality of haptic cells, each of which is disposed under a corresponding key switch. Each of the haptic cells is configured to provide haptic feedback in response to the touch by the user. In a specific embodiment, the haptic keyboard apparatus also includes a processor and a haptic controller that provide control signals to the haptic device. In an embodiment, the control signals include programmable voltages and frequencies, causing the haptic cells to effect vibrational patterns in response to the control signals and provide haptic feedback to the user. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100089736 | KEYSWITCH AND KEYBOARD - The invention discloses a keyswitch and a keyboard. The keyboard includes a substrate, an upper cover and a plurality of the keyswitches. The upper cover, disposed on the substrate, has a plurality of accommodating spaces. Each keyswitch is respectively disposed in one of the accommodating spaces. Each keyswitch includes a keycap and a lift support device. The keycap has a skirt portion. The skirt portion contacts the upper cover. The lift support device is disposed between the keycap and the substrate. The lift support device enables the keycap to move vertically relative to the substrate. A complete surface is formed by the upper cover, the keycaps and the skirt portions, so as to prevent light leakage and maintain an equal height of the keyswitches. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100089737 | KEYSWITCH AND KEYBOARD - The invention discloses a keyboard comprising a substrate and a plurality of keyswitches. The keyswitches are disposed on the substrate. The substrate includes a first connection portion and a reinforcement structure. The first connection portion is formed from bending the substrate. Each keyswitch includes a keycap and a lift support device. The keycap has a second connection portion. The lift support device is disposed between the keycap and substrate. The lift support device has a third connection portion and a fourth connection portion. The first connection portion is connected to the third connection portion, and the second connection portion is connected to the fourth connection portion. The lift support device is used for carrying the keycap to move vertically relative to the substrate. The reinforcement structure can enhance the connection strength between the first connection portion and the substrate. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100096247 | ELECTRIC CONTROL MODULE, PARTICULARLY FOR MOTOR VEHICLES - The present invention relates to an electric control module comprising—a substrate ( | 04-22-2010 |
| 20100116637 | BUTTON-KEY STRUCTURE AND ELECTRIC DEVICE HAVING THE SAME - A button-key structure includes a plurality of button-keys arranged next to each other; and a button-key supporting portion disposed on a downstream side in a direction that the button-keys move. The button-key supporting portion includes a guide portion disposed between the button-keys in parallel to the direction that the button-key move. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100122897 | Keypad, Keypad Matrix and Electronic Device - A keypad, a keypad matrix and an electronic device comprising a keypad are disclosed. The keypad comprises a plurality of keys and a keypad matrix. The keypad matrix comprises a plurality of conductive traces. At least three conductive traces are coupled to an actuation area of the keypad matrix which is associated with a key. | 05-20-2010 |
| 20100133081 | Keypad manufacturing method and device thereof - A keypad manufacturing method and a device thereof are disclosed. The keypad manufacturing method includes the steps of: (1) pouring materials for a keypad into a mold; (2) covering a film on the mold; (3) film printing: arranging a printed layer on the film; (4) attaching a layer of positioning plate; that's to attach the film with the printed layer on the layer of positioning plate. The device consists of a film which is a transparent layer; a keypad set formed by a plurality of keypads arranged on the film and a connecting piece is located on bottoms of two adjacent keypads; a printed layer disposed on bottom of the film to form characters or symbols corresponding to the keypads. Therefore, the manufacturing of the keypad device is easy, convenient for mass-production, with lower cost of related equipment, reduced operation time and higher yield rate. Moreover, both economic benefits and competitiveness of products are improved. | 06-03-2010 |
| 20100133082 | Switch Apparatus for Adjusting Power Seat in Vehicle - A switch apparatus for adjusting a power seat in a vehicle, may include a body, a plurality of switches installed on the body including a first switch manipulated in a horizontal direction, and a second switch spaced apart from the first switch and manipulated in a vertical direction, and a guide bracket, a first end portion of which is integrally coupled to the first switch and a second end portion of which is placed around the second switch and selectively coupled to the second switch according to a horizontal movement of the first switch, wherein the second switch is movable in the vertical direction while the first switch is in a neutral position, while the first switch is out of the neutral position, and wherein the second end portion of the guide bracket is interfered with the second switch while the second switch is out of a neutral position. | 06-03-2010 |
| 20100147667 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY - A keypad assembly used in a portable electronic device is described. The keypad assembly includes a shelf, a keypad mounted to the shelf, and at least one light-emitting source. The keypad is made of a light-guiding material. The light-emitting source faces the keypad and is adjacent to the keypad. | 06-17-2010 |
| 20100155213 | Panel Assembly Control Units - Disclosed is a portable control unit for activating a panel assembly of a vehicle that includes a housing, a first switch disposed on the housing, at least one connector, and a battery, wherein the at least one connector is configured to engage a receptor of a panel assembly of a vehicle, the panel assembly lacking a power source, such that the battery provides power to the panel assembly and the first switch controls movement of a panel within the panel assembly. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100163388 | KEY SHEET AND KEY UNIT HAVING THE SAME - Regarding a key sheet having a plurality of key tops provided at a key base made of a transparent or translucent resin, and a key unit using the key sheet, in order to make the key sheet thinner and thereby make a device using the key sheet, e.g., a cellular phone, thinner, the key sheet comprises a key base made of a transparent or translucent resin; a plurality of key tops provided on said key base; and pressing elements or a pressing element sheet having pressing elements provided at a bottom surface thereof, provided at a bottom surface of said key base, wherein said key base is molded, into a sheet form, of a thermoplastic resin which is solid at a room temperature and obtains adhesive force only in a physical change of hot melting and cooling solidification. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100170775 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - Disclosed is a keypad assembly and a method for manufacturing the keypad assembly in which a base film member and a button member of the keypad assembly are integrally formed. The keypad assembly includes a base film member, a button member integrally formed with the base film member, and a processed part formed by recessing a space between buttons keys of the button member in a predetermined depth to be spaced apart from the base film member, the processed part being formed on the base film member. The keypad assembly is manufactured such that the button member and the base film member to be recessed between a button key including a pattern of the button member and an adjacent button key in a predetermined depth of the base film member so as to form a processed part. Therefore, the button member can be formed through UV-molding and the press of the button member is simplified. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100175976 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY AND MATHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - A keypad assembly, comprising: a main body made of metal, the main body defining a plurality of slots and the slots enclosing a plurality of pressing buttons thereon, each pressing button defining at least one symbol slot, the main body having a contact surface and a operating surface; and a light-transmissive filling member, the filling member defining a plurality of protruding strips and the protruding strips enclosing a plurality of button areas thereon, each button area having at least one symbol block protruding therefrom, the filling member bonding to the contact surface with the protruding strips and the symbol blocks respectively engaging in the corresponding slots and the symbol slots. A method for making the present keypad assembly is also described. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100181179 | SCADA Ready Field Test Switch - A monitored SCADA Ready Field Test (FT) Switch is disclosed. The monitored switch relates to the incorporation of a monitoring switch for each switch unit in a FT switch to monitor the position of the corresponding switch unit and the FT switch, generally. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100187080 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AN ELECTRONIC INTERACTIVE SWITCH - An interactive switch system for a stowage compartment system for a mobile platform (for example, commercial aircraft) is provided. The switch system is mounted to a moveable structure, such as an overhead stowage bin, and is responsive to a local input from a user, as well as to a remote input from an external control/monitoring panel. The switch system has at least one indicator surface responsive to the local input and the remote input to display indicator data. The indicator surface has a portion that forms at least one user input device for enabling the local input. The switch system further comprises a control system disposed behind the indicator surface. The control system is responsive to the local input and the remote input to transmit the indicator data to the indicator surface. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100187081 | Circuit Breaker Configuration - A circuit breaker configuration contains a number of circuit breakers each to be connected via lines to a system component of a power distribution system and a plurality of control buttons with a respective one of the control buttons connected to a respective one of the circuit breakers. The respective control button for the respective circuit breaker passes through a control panel and is actuated from a front side of the control panel. A coupling element accessible from the front side of the control panel is provided for an interchange of diagnosis data and/or parametrization data. The coupling element is associated with the circuit breakers. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100187082 | Keyboards - A switch useful for, inter alia, a touch type keyboard or keypad which may be used for a personal computer or the like in a substantially waterproof form while being relatively inexpensive to manufacture. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100193341 | Multidirectional Input Device - an object is to provide a multidirectional input device capable of detecting an arbitrary direction of depression before the generation of the feeling of click to depress a directional key in the arbitrary direction with a predetermined small force based on the feeling of click. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100193342 | METHOD AND DEVICE OF INPUT FOR A PORTABLE TERMINAL - An input device of a portable terminal is provided. The input device includes a keypad unit consisting of a plurality of key buttons, a board consisting of a plurality of pressure sensors and dome switches for generating signals when pressed, an actuator for simultaneously pressing the corresponding dome switch and the corresponding pressure sensor when a key button is pressed, and a controller for performing and finishing a first operation based on the signal generated by the relevant dome switch if generation of the signal generated by the dome switch stops before a valid time has expired, and for performing a second operation based on a pressure change sensed by the relevant pressure sensors simultaneously pressed until the generation of the signal generated by the relevant dome switch remains after the valid time has expired. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100200385 | Anti-Ghosting Keyboard - A computer keyboard is disclosed to remediate the phantom key or ghosting problem. Diodes are added to the PCB or contact-receptive membrane to eliminate reverse current, which is responsible for phantom key strikes. These one-way diodes increase the number of possible concurrent combinations that a microcontroller with limited inputs can support. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100200386 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY FOR MOBILE PHONE - A keypad assembly mounted in a portable terminal is disclosed. The keypad assembly has a window keypad including a display window disposed on a front face of the portable terminal. A keypad top is integrally molded with the display window and simultaneously assembled on the front face of the portable terminal, thereby providing an easier assembly than known heretofore, as two parts can be assembled at the same time and additionally provide an elegant exterior front face. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100213042 | Electric Hand Control, Especially for Electrically Adjustable Hospital and Care Beds - An electric hand control, especially for electrically adjustable hospital and care beds and comprising a housing ( | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100213043 | KEY ASSEMBLY FOR A HANDHELD ELECTRONIC DEVICE HAVING A ONE-PIECE KEYCAP - A key assembly for an electronic device having a one-piece keycap and an electronic device having such a keycap are provided. In accordance with one embodiment, there is provided a key assembly for use in an electronic device, comprising: a keycap having a plurality of rigid key portions separated by mechanically deforming portions; and a flexible member having opposed first and second sides, the first side having a plurality of key stems which are attached to the plurality of key portions, the second side having a plurality of actuators for actuating dome switches of the electronic device. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100219057 | ELECTRONIC APPARATUS - The structure of an electronic apparatus ( | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100219058 | CUSTOMIZABLE KEYBOARD - A keyboard includes a panel and a number of input keys. The input keys are assembled on the panel. The panel includes at least one first positive contact, at least one first negative contact and at least one first signal contact disposed on the panel. Each input key of the number of input keys includes a second positive contact, a second negative contact, a second signal contact and a signal transmitter received therein. The second positive contact, the second negative contact and the second signal contact are configured for connecting to the at least one first positive contact, the at least one first negative contact and the at least one first signal contact respectively when the input key is assembled on the panel. The signal transmitter is configured for emitting a signal reflecting the function of the input key when the input key is pressed. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100219059 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY USING OPTICAL SHUTTER AND LIGHT GUIDE PANEL AND PORTABLE TERMINAL HAVING THE SAME - A keypad assembly includes an optical shutter configured to shield or transmit light according to a voltage applied thereto; a light guide panel configured to guide an internal light generated inside of the keypad assembly and coupled to the interior of the light guide panel; and a symbol pattern layer including at least one symbol pattern illuminated by both the internal light irradiated from the light guide panel and an external light from outside of the keypad assembly that has passed through the optical shutter. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100230264 | Keypad - An apparatus including: a substrate; a keypad including a plurality of distinct rigid elongate keys wherein each elongate key includes: a first end portion supported by the substrate and a second end portion separated by a dimension of the elongate key from the first end portion, and suspended from the substrate in free space by the elongate key; and a plurality of switches, wherein each switch detects travelling towards the substrate of the second end portion of a respective one of the plurality of elongate keys in response to user actuation of the second end portion. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100230265 | DRIVE UNIT - A switch section includes a common terminal connected to a terminal at one end of each of a pair of motors, a first terminal connected to a terminal at the other end of one of the motors and a second terminal connected to a terminal at the other end of the other of the motors, and three-contact switches each including one common contact and two switching contacts. In the switch section two switches corresponding to one direction selected from the up and down directions form a switch group, at least one switch corresponding to the other direction selected from the up and down directions is provided, two switches corresponding to one direction selected from the left and right directions form a switch group, and at least one switch corresponding to the other direction selected from the left and right directions is provided. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100243421 | METHOD AND APPARATUS TO IMPROVE TACTILE FEEL FOR KEYBOARDS AND BUTTON ASSEMBLIES - A keyboard for an electronic device that incorporates a flexible carrier for the keys. The flexible carrier has cutouts or slots that aid in decoupling the actions of one from its neighbors. Moreover, in addition to or instead of cutouts or slots, the flexible carrier optionally has cutouts around its outer perimeter. In some embodiments, the keys are molded as part of the flexible carrier. In other embodiments, the keys are attached to or inserted in the flexible carrier during manufacture. Various embodiments of the invention employ various key shapes to aid the user's tactile experience while typing. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100252407 | Keyboard with back-lighted ultra-durable keys - A key for a keyboard includes a keycap having a top surface configured to be contacted for pressing the key down, and having a bottom. The keycap is substantially transparent. An intermediate layer is coupled to the bottom of the keycap. The intermediate layer is translucent and includes a top and a bottom. The top of the intermediate layer faces the bottom of the keycap. A character layer is positioned between the bottom of the keycap and the top of the intermediate layer. A resilient member is coupled to the bottom of the intermediate layer. The resilient member is translucent and is configured to direct light through the intermediate layer, through the character layer, and out from the keycap. The character layer is configured to be lighted for viewing through the keycap. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100258423 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES - A keypad assembly includes a PCB, a light guiding board disposed on the PCB, a panel disposed on the light guiding board, a plurality of panel portions made of transparent material, set on the panel, a lighting device disposed on the PCB, and a sensing device disposed on the PCB. when an object touches or slides on/above the surface of the panel portion, the intensity of light sensed by the sensing device changes which causes the current of the four sensors to be changed, thus the sensing device generates a signal to complete a corresponding information input. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100258424 | SLIDE SWITCH STRUCTURE AND POWER SEAT SWITCH USING THE SAME - A power seat switch includes a structure main body; switches provided in the structure main body; sliders slidably provided in the structure main body and changing over contacts of the switches; and moderation units each including a moderation adjuster fitted into the structure main body and an elastic portion provided on the slider. Each slider includes a shaft and a pair of legs provided on one end of the shaft. The elastic portion is provided to elastically protrude from the one end of the shaft in an axial direction of the shaft. The moderation adjuster includes a moderation groove arranged to be sandwiched between the legs, in contact with the elastic portion, and applying a moderation according to sliding of the slider. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100264005 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY AND PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE USING SAME - A keypad assembly includes a pressing cover, a pressing body, a printed circuit board, and a support member. The pressing cover includes a plurality of pressing caps. The pressing body includes a plurality of keys respectively mounted to the pressing caps and a deformable area surrounding the keys. The printed circuit board includes a plurality of contacting sheets. The contacting sheets are respectively aligned with the keys. The support member is mounted between the pressing body and the printed circuit board. The support member includes a plurality of support beams. The support beams are mounted to the deformable area and separate adjacent contacting sheets and keys from each other. | 10-21-2010 |
| 20100264006 | POWER SEAT SWITCH TO PREVENT SIMULTANEOUS ACTIVATION - A switch actuating assembly for an automobile seat has a switch operating member moveable along a first path to operate a first switch associated with a first function and moveable along a second path to operate a second switch associated with a second function. To inhibit operation of both functions simultaneously a guide controls movement of the switch operating member. Guide members act between the switch operating member and the guide so that movement of the switch operating member along one of the paths upon movement of the switch operating member along the other of the paths from a rest position. An interlock is provided between the switch operating members of a pair of switch assemblies so that only one function of one of the switch assemblies can be operated at a time. | 10-21-2010 |
| 20100288613 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE USING SAME - A keypad assembly is used for an electronic device. The keypad assembly includes a support member, a plurality of key strips and a plurality of elastic members. The support member defines a plurality of openings and a plurality of cantilever plates, each cantilever plate extending into a corresponding opening. The key strips are received in the openings. Each key strip defines a first slot in which each cantilever plate is received. Each elastic member supports one of the key strips and provides a force extending one portion of the key strips out of its corresponding opening. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100288614 | LIGHTGUIDES HAVING LIGHT EXTRACTION STRUCTURES PROVIDING REGIONAL CONTROL OF LIGHT OUTPUT - Lightguides, devices incorporating lightguides, and processes for making lightguides are described. A lightguide includes light extractors arranged in a pattern on a surface of the lightguide. The pattern of light extractors is arranged to enhance uniformity of light output across a surface of the lightguide and to provide enhanced defect hiding. The efficiency of the light extractors is controlled by a shape factor. The areal density of the light extractors across the surface of the lightguide may be substantially constant or may decrease along the direction of propagation of light from the light source. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100288615 | KEYBOARD DEVICE - A keyboard device includes: a plurality of arranged key tops; a support mechanism which supports each of the key tops so as to be elevatable; a membrane switch which outputs a switch signal when the key top moves down with an operation of the support mechanism performed upon pressing the key top; and an illumination mechanism which includes a light source and a light guiding member, and propagates light of the light source to the inside of the light guiding member so as to illuminate the key top, wherein the light guiding member is provided with a plurality of groove portions provided in the course of a path of the light and changing a light advancing direction, and wherein the light reaches the key top by the groove portions. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100294639 | MULTI-DIRECTIONAL OPERATING SWITCH ASSEMBLY - A multi-directional operating switch assembly includes: a recessed base; first and second switches disposed in the recessed base; a slider disposed in the recessed base and having a main part and a protrusion protruding from the main part, the slider being slidable in a first direction so as to actuate the first switch; an operating lever having a slot defined by a slot-defining wall, the protrusion of the slider extending into the slot, the operating lever being movable in the first direction to drive the slider to move in the first direction, and being further movable relative to the slider in a second direction to actuate the second switch; and an urging member disposed in the slot and abutting against the protrusion and the slot-defining wall. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100300859 | DOME ARRAY FOR USE WITH A SWITCH - An array of domes is constructed from a single sheet of constructed material. For example, several domes can be stamped at a preset distribution within a sheet of metal. The domes can be placed at any suitable position along the surface of the material, including for example at positions defined by the locations of contact pads on a circuit board. The conductive material can be electrically coupled to the circuit board at any suitable location, including for example along an edge of the piece of material. In some embodiments, the sheet of material can extend around the side walls of the circuit board, for example bent around the periphery of the circuit board. The sheet of material can be electrically coupled to the bottom of the circuit board, for example by soldering. This approach may provide a water resistant dome switch, whereby water can be prevented from leaking between the dome and the circuit board. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100307904 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE USING SAME - A keypad assembly is used for an electronic device. The keypad assembly includes a support member, and a plurality of key strips. The support member defines a plurality of openings and a plurality of cantilever plates, each cantilever plate extending into a corresponding opening. The key strips are received in the openings. Each key strip defines a slot, and each cantilever plate is received in a slot. The cantilever plates provide force to extend one portion of the key strips from the receiving groove. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100307905 | KEYSWITCH AND KEYBOARD - A keyswitch includes a keyswitch member and a base. The keyswitch member includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion. The base includes a sliding portion and a fixing portion. The sliding portion is for adjusting a height of the keyswitch member. The sliding portion includes a step portion and a protrusion portion. The first connecting portion is movably disposed in the step portion. The step portion includes a flat structure and a reversed L-shaped structure. The protrusion portion is adjacent to the step portion. The protrusion portion restrains the first connecting portion from moving. The fixing portion is disposed on the base relative to the sliding portion. A hole is formed on the fixing portion. The second connecting portion is pivotally connected to the fixing portion via the hole. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100320067 | Switch, circuitry, and method of assembly for electrosurgical pencil - Formation of an assemblage of electrically conductive components for a new electrosurgical pencil is disclosed, and assembly of those components in a method for automating the manufacture and combination of current carrying metal circuitry and operable switching components in “electrosurgical pencils” which supply current to an active terminal, for application of high frequency or high power electrical current to a surgical site, and control of such current through coaction of the elements of the switch. In manufacture, the design of the switch components allows start-to-finish automated assembly of the switch, in an industry which knows only partially automated assembly, and partial assembly by hand, to create an improved tool for surgical cutting, coagulation, and cauterizing. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100320068 | PUSHBUTTON SWITCH ASSEMBLY FOR ENHANCING INPUT SENSITIVITY - A pushbutton switch assembly includes a key unit, a circuit board, and a press unit. The key unit includes a keycap and a press member disposed at a bottom portion of the keycap. The press member has a protruding portion. The circuit board is disposed under the key unit, and includes an electrical contact unit opposing the key unit. The electrical contact unit has a first electrode region and a second electrode region. The press unit includes a positioning film disposed on the circuit board, and a conducting plate positioned between the positioning film and the circuit board. The conducting plate is connected to the first electrode region. The conducting plate is deformed to interconnect the first and second electrode regions when the key unit is pressed and the protruding portion presses down on the positioning film, and restored when the key unit is released. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100326807 | LIGHT GUIDE PLATE, LIGHT GUIDE KEY PLATE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE LIGHT GUIDE KEY PLATE - A light guide key plate includes a light guide plate ( | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100326808 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH TWO KEYPADS - An electronic device with two keypads is provided. The electronic device includes a recessed portion and a pressable member rotatably attached to the recessed portion. A plurality of key switches is arranged on a surface of the recessed portion. A plurality of first pressable portions are formed on a first surface of the pressable member, and a plurality of second pressable portions are formed on a second surface of the pressable member. The first pressable portions and the key switches form the first keys, and the second portions and the key switches form the second keys. The electronic device further includes a switch unit and a processor. The processor is configured for assigning the key switches to correspond to the first pressable portions or the second portions according to the switch signal generated by the switch unit. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20110024276 | KEYBOARD ASSEMBLY FOR A MOBILE DEVICE - A keyboard assembly for a mobile device having a housing, including a circuit board provided within the housing and having a plurality of contact assemblies thereon, a keyboard having a plurality of keys and being provided in a front face of the housing, a dome sheet assembly arranged between the keyboard and the circuit board, the dome sheet assembly including a dome carrier configured for carrying a plurality of domes, wherein a gap is defined between the circuit board and the dome sheet assembly. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110024277 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES - A keypad assembly includes a pressing cover, a keypad and a shading plate. The button cover includes a plurality of buttons. The keypad includes a plurality of key bodies respectively corresponding to the buttons. A plurality of posts are arranged on the keypad. The shading plate is positioned on the keypad and is supported by the posts. The shading plate is positioned under the buttons for preventing light leakage. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110024278 | SUPPORTING STRUCTURE, METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SUPPORTING STRUCTURE AND KEYBOARD - A supporting structure is used for supporting a key cap. The supporting structure includes a first supporting member and a second supporting member. A first arm of the first supporting member includes a first connecting part and a second connecting part. The first connecting part can be movably connected to the key cap. The second connecting part has a C-shaped hole. A second arm of the second supporting member includes a third connecting part and a fourth connecting part. The third connecting part can be movably connected to the key cap. The fourth connecting part has a shaft. The shaft can be embedded into the C-shaped hole via an opening of the C-shaped hole, such that the first supporting member and the second supporting member can rotate relative to each other. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110042195 | KEYBOARD - A keyboard includes: a membrane circuit board comprising a plurality of switches; at least one keycap provided with a plurality of contact portions, each of which corresponding to one of the plurality of switches of the membrane circuit board; and a base plate provided with a plurality of openings each of which being positioned at a location corresponding to one of the plurality of switches of the membrane circuit board and one of the plurality of contact portions of the keycap, a buffering portion being formed at a corner adjoining the base plate and one of the plurality of openings. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110042196 | PUSH SWITCH EQUIPPED WITH CAPACITANCE SENSOR AND INPUT DEVICE INCLUDING THE SAME - A push switch includes an operating member, a holding member, a detecting electrode including a plate-shaped spring, a conductive coil spring, and a wiring substrate. The operating member includes a top portion. The rear surface of the top portion and the holding member define a storage space. The detecting electrode, received in the storage space, includes a detecting portion in resilient contact with the top portion, a base in resilient contact with the coil spring, and a height adjusting portion coupling the detecting portion to the base. The amount of compression of the detecting electrode is defined depending on the height of the storage space. The detecting portion detects a change in capacitance caused when the operation surface is touched by a human body and a detection signal indicating the change is output to the wiring substrate through the height adjusting portion, the base, and the coil spring. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110048912 | COMPOSITE ROTARY SWITCH - A composite rotary switch includes a first rotary operation member configured to be rotatable around a rotational center, a second rotary operation member configured to be rotatable around the rotational center, an electrical position detector operable to electrically detect a rotational position of the first rotary operation member, and an optical position detector operable to optically detect a rotational position of the second rotary operation member. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110048913 | BACKLIGHT APPARATUS AND KEYBOARD - A backlight apparatus includes a light-guiding plate, two first light-emitting members and two second light-emitting members. The light-guiding plate has a first edge and a second edge parallel to the first edge. The light-guiding plate has two first recesses and two second recesses. The two first light-emitting members are disposed in the two first recesses respectively, and the two second light-emitting members are disposed in the two second recesses respectively. The two first light-emitting members are rotated at a predetermined angle respectively, such that first light-emitting axes of the two first light-emitting members tend toward the first edge and the second edge of the light-guiding plate respectively. Besides, second light-emitting axes of the two second light-emitting members are parallel to the first edge and the second edge of the light-guiding plate. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110056818 | KEY SWITCH DEVICE - A key switch device and a keyboard, capable of preventing key-entry noise from rebounding and having a drip-proof effect so as to avoid a contact fault and/or insulation failure. The key switch device includes a switch panel; a key top positioned above the switch panel; a pair of link members positioned between the key top and the switch panel and adapted to interlock with the key top so that the key top may be moved in a vertical direction while maintaining a horizontal posture; and an annular elastic wall member positioned between the switch panel and a membrane sheet and configured to contact opposing surfaces of the switch panel and the membrane sheet, wherein the elastic wall member is arranged along a contour of the key top. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110062008 | KEYBOARD - A keyboard includes a pressable structure and a plurality of keycaps. The pressable structure includes a flat member and a plurality of elastic members. The flat member defines a plurality of through holes corresponding to the plurality of the elastic members. The plurality of the elastic members is integrated with the flat member as a single element by a double injection process. The plurality of keycaps are resiliently supported by the plurality of elastic members correspondingly. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110062009 | KEYBOARD DEVICE - A keyboard device including a frame made of two materials, a keypad film, and multiple button assemblies is provided. The frame made of two materials includes a bottom plate and multiple fixing structures, wherein the fixing structures are integrally formed at the bottom plate by in-mold injection. The keypad film is disposed on the frame made of two materials, and the button assemblies are disposed on the keypad film and assembled to the fixing structures. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110067990 | WEBBED KEYBOARD ASSEMBLY - A keyboard assembly configured for converting keystroke activation into electrical signals. The keyboard assembly includes a plurality of key caps, each of the plurality of key caps being configured to transition between a rest position and a depressed position. The keyboard assembly also includes a web-like structure having a plurality of interconnected ribs defining a plurality of apertures. The plurality of key caps are disposed such that the plurality of key caps move within the plurality of apertures and traverse a plane formed by an upper surface of the web-like structure when the plurality of key caps transition between the rest position and the depressed position. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110073454 | KEY ASSEMBLY FOR AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE HAVING A MULTI-CHARACTER KEYCAP - A key assembly for use in an electronic device is provided. The key assembly includes a plurality of dome switches and a plurality of single-piece keycaps. Each keycap identifies a row of keyboard characters. Each keycap has a plurality of character-representing portions separated by deforming portions. Each character-representing portion is associated with a separate one of the plurality of dome switches. The key assembly further comprises a plurality of actuators for activating the dome switches. Each actuator has a first side which is engaged by one of the character representing portions of the keycap. Each actuator has a second side which engages the dome switch associated with that character-representing portion. In a rest state in which the keycap is not depressed, at least some of the actuators preload at least some of the dome switches by exerting a force upon the dome switches. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110073455 | KEY STRUCTURE AND KEYBOARD HAVING SUCH KEY STRUCTURE - A key structure and a keyboard including multiple key structures are provided. The key structure includes a keycap, a base plate and a scissors-type support member between the keycap and the base plate. The scissors-type support member includes an inner frame having a convex part and an outer frame having a recess. The convex part is accommodated within the recess. By controlling relative positions between the convex part and the recess, the keycap is stably moved in the vertical direction. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110073456 | KEY ASSEMBLY FOR AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE HAVING ONE-PIECE KEYCAPS AND MULTI-TOUCH PREVENTING SUPPORTS - According to one aspect, a keypad for an electronic device includes a plurality of switches and a plurality of keycaps. Each keycap has a plurality of external contact portions defining a full row of the keypad. Each external contact portion corresponds to one of the switches and includes at least one of a text-entry character and a functional character. Each of the external contact portions is movable to actuate the corresponding switch. The keypad further includes a plurality of keycap supports. Each keycap support is disposed between adjacent external contact portions. After one of the external contact portions has been moved to actuate the corresponding switch, at least one of the keycap supports engages the keycap having the one of the external contact portions to inhibit the keycap from actuating at least one of the other switches. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110073457 | MULTIDIRECTIONAL OPERATING SWITCH - In a multidirectional operating switch, an operating body has a support having a spherically convex surface on the lower end of a central cylinder, and a holding base has a retainer having a spherically concave surface disposed opposite to the support. Through the movement of the support sliding over the retainer, the holding base retains the operating body rockably in multiple directions. The rotational center of the rocking movement of the operating body coincides with the position at which the push element is in contact with the push section disposed at the lower end of the operation button. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110073458 | MEMBRANE SWITCH SHEET - Disclosed herein is a membrane switch sheet for a switch matrix-type key input apparatus. The membrane switch sheet is used in a switch matrix-type key input apparatus, including a plurality of switch contacts, so as to prevent the occurrence of a ghost key phenomenon. The membrane switch sheet includes at least one film wired through a single patterning process using only ink having low conductivity so as to have resistors having a same resistance value, with distances between start points of lines of a switch matrix in a column scan direction and the switch contacts being set to the same value. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110089008 | CONFIGURABLE MULTI-GATE SWITCH CIRCUITRY - Integrated circuits with configurable multi-gate switch circuitry are provided. The switch circuitry may include switch control circuitry and an array of multi-gate switches. Each multi-gate switch may have first and second terminals, first and second gates, and a metal bridge. The metal bridge is attached to the first terminal. The metal bridge may extend over the gates and may hover above the second terminal in the off state. The metal bridge may have a tip that bends down to physically contact the second terminal in the on state. Switch control circuitry may provide row and column control signals to load desired switch states into the switch array. The switch array may be partitioned into groups of switches that form multiplexers. The multiplexers may be used in programmable circuits such as programmable logic device circuits. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110089009 | AIR CONDITIONER CONTROL MODULE - An air conditioner control module has a control panel and a circuit board mounted on a rear side of the control panel. The control panel has a plurality of buttons, a plurality of light holes, a display window and a dial. The control circuit is mounted on the circuit board and is connected with a plurality of micro switches, a plurality of indicators, a display device and a continuous variable resistor. The micro switches, indicators and display device respectively correspond to the buttons, light holes and display window. The continuous variable resistor is connected with the dial. The dial and the continuous variable resistor constitute a continuous dial fine-tuning temperature and humidity of an air conditioner and facilitating the operation of the air conditioner. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110089010 | COMPLEX SHEET STRUCTURE AND COVER LENS ASSEMBLY - A complex sheet structure includes a base plate, a microstructure layer, and a shielding layer. The microstructure layer is formed on the base plate and has a first side and an opposite second side. The microstructure layer has a plurality of prismatic structures, and the base plate touches the first side of the microstructure layer. The shielding layer covers the second side of the microstructure layer and contains a low light-transmittance material. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110094868 | KEY ASSEMBLY FOR AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE HAVING A CONNECTED KEYCAP - The present application provides a key assembly for use in an electronic device. The key assembly comprises a plurality of dome switches and one or more single-piece keycaps. Each keycap has a plurality of key portions separated by deforming portions. The key assembly further comprises a plurality of actuators for activating the dome switches. Each actuator has a stem portion and an enlarged rigid blocking portion. The key assembly also comprises one or more rigid blocking members disposed between the blocking portion of the actuators and the keycaps and in close proximity to the blocking portion of the actuators. The blocking members form a barrier to limit a rotational movement of the actuators away from the dome switches. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110100791 | KEY MODULE AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME - A key module includes a light guide board made from polycarbonate material and a plurality of elastic keypads made from thermoplastic elastomer material and injected molding with the light guide board with a push member projecting above the light guiding board. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110114462 | KEYSWITCH AND INPUT APPARATUS - The invention provides an input apparatus including a plurality of keyswitches. The keyswitch includes a keycap and a covering layer. The keycap includes an upper surface and a plurality of lateral surfaces. The plurality of lateral surfaces shows a first color related to the material of the keycap. The covering layer covers a first region of the top surface, so that the first region of the top surface shows a second color different from the first color. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110120848 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD - A luminous keyboard includes plural keycaps, a membrane circuit board, at least one light-emitting element, and a lower cover. The plural keycaps, the membrane circuit board and the light-emitting element are supported on the lower cover. In addition, the lower cover of the luminous keyboard has a light-guiding function. Since an additional light guide plate is required, the luminous keyboard has simplified configuration and the overall thickness thereof is reduced. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110120849 | OPERATION INPUT DEVICE AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE USING THE SAME - An operation input device includes a base including at least four elastic engagement receiving portions raised at a periphery of a center thereof; a print substrate configured to be stacked and integrated on the base; an annular operation plate mounted on push button switches of the print substrate and configured to prevent slip-out; an operation dial mounted on the annular operation plate on an axial center; and a fixing tool configured to be inserted to a fit-in hole of the operation hole and engage with at least two elastic engagement receiving portions of the base at an edge on a lower side and with an inner peripheral edge of the operation dial. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110127152 | BLIND POINT KEYSWITCH AND INPUT APPARATUS - The invention provides an input apparatus including a bottom plate and a plurality of keyswitches disposed on the bottom plate. Each keyswitch includes a blind point keyswitch. The blind point keyswitch includes a keycap and a blind point. The keycap has a smooth surface. The blind point is made of a specific material by a specific process, and the blind point is formed on the surface of the keycap for being a protrusion. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110147187 | POWER SEAT SWITCH ASSEMBLY - A switch assembly is provided that includes a series of bridge actuators that include oppositely spaced protrusions separated by a bridge. The protrusions extend through apertures in a support that provides a sliding surface for overlying actuator plates. The actuator plates include ramps to act on the protrusions and in turn activate underlying dome switches. The bridge actuators utilize an angled underside to provide better alignment with the top surface of the dome to reduce shearing. The switch assembly also includes a sub-assembly that uses a micro switch cell in a knob instead of a PCB to reduce the number of connections. The sub-assembly uses an elastomeric keypad to preload a button on the knob and provide tactile feel. The switch assembly also includes a four-way knob that provides distinct feel to the directions of movement using a contoured male-female connection that uses tabs and slots, a contoured female connection and a protrusion on the tip of the male connector. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110147188 | ELECTRONIC APPARATUS - In an electronic apparatus, a first switch and a second switch are located in a correspondence relationship with each other. The first switch is configured to obtain an electric output by causing a first contact and a second contact to contact each other with an operation member. The second switch is configured to obtain an electric output by deforming a dome-shaped plate spring covering a third contact. The electronic apparatus includes a supporting member configured to keep a gap between the first contact and the second contact constant and to regulate the first switch and the second switch to be located on an approximately same line with respect to an operation direction of the operation member. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110147189 | Printed Circuit Board for a Mobile Device - A printed circuit board is provided for use in a keyboard assembly of a mobile device having a plurality of keys in a key layout. The printed circuit board has a plurality of contacts, such as dome switches, arranged in a contact layout. The contact layout is such that it can be used with a plurality of different key layouts, each actuating different combinations of contacts. Some keys in a particular key layout are overlying at least two of the plurality of contacts, and such keys actuate only one of the underlying contacts. As such, a common printed circuit board can be used for a plurality of complementary mobile device designs having different key layouts, thereby allowing a manufacturer to realize cost efficiencies. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110155551 | KEYBOARD STRUCTURE - There is provided a keyboard structure capable of preventing a fingernail of a user from being inserted between key tops and achieving uniform illumination without illumination leakage. A key top body portion ( | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110155552 | SUPPORTING STRUCTURE, KEYSWITCH, AND KEYBOARD - A supporting structure includes two supporting members. Each of the supporting members has a connecting portion, a first side arm, and a second side arm. The first side arm and the second side arm are connected opposite to the connecting portion respectively. The first side arm protrudes to form a shaft and the second side arm forms a hole corresponding to the shaft. The shaft of each of the two supporting members can be rotatable contained in the hole of another supporting member respectively. The shape of the supporting member is similar to a U shape. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110155553 | KEYPAD - A keypad includes a circuit board, a key, and a rotating member. The circuit board includes at least one first keypad switch and at least one second keypad switch. The key includes a first protruding post configured for actuating the at least one first keypad switch, and a second protruding post for actuating the at least one second keypad switch. The rotating member is rotatably connected to the circuit board and able to retain in a first position and a second position. In the first position, the rotating member prevents the first protruding post from actuating the at least one first keypad switch and allows the second protruding post to actuate the at least one second keypad switch. In the second position, the rotating member allows the first protruding post to actuate the at least one keypad switch. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110168538 | THIN ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD - A thin illuminated keyboard comprises at least one keycap, an upper light guide plate and a lower light guide plate. The upper and lower light guide plates have respectively a first light guide layer and a second light guide layer opposing each other. The first and second light guide layers have respectively a first circuit layer and a second circuit layer laid on the opposing surfaces thereof. The first and second light guide layers also have respectively a first mask layer and a second reflection layer on the sides opposite to the first and second circuit layers to form an optical passage therebetween. The first mask layer has at least one light penetration zone receiving light from the optical passage. The light is transmitted and confined in the optical passage between the first and second light guide layers, and condensed to project to the keycap through the light penetration zone. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110174602 | Manual Reset Pressure Switch - A switching device including a plurality of electrical switches, and an activation lever adapted to substantially simultaneously change the switches from a first state to a second state in response to a single physical input. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110180378 | SLIDING ELECTRICAL SWITCH - A sliding electrical switch comprising a first slider which is able to establish a first electrical switching channel, a first actuator for the first slider, a second slider which is able to establish a second electrical switching channel, a second actuator for the second slider, and a common return spring which is a compression spring which is mounted axially compressed between the first and second sliders and which simultaneously stresses each of the two sliders towards its idle axial position. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110186413 | KEYBOARD DOME OVERLAY STRUCTURE - A dome overlay structure for a mobile device keyboard includes a plurality of dome switches, a circuit board disposed beneath the plurality of dome switches with each dome switch electrically coupled to the circuit board, a main overlay disposed over the plurality of dome switches, and a first adhesive dab centrally interposed between the dome switch and the main overlay with a second adhesive dab surrounding the first adhesive dab. Each dome switch has a central portion and a non-central portion. The first adhesive dab can bond the central portion of the dome switch to the main overlay. The second adhesive dab is configured to form a gap between the second adhesive dab and the non-central portion of the dome switch in an unactuated configuration and configured to contact the non-central portion of the dome switch in an actuated configuration. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110203913 | KEYBOARD DOME STIFFENER ASSEMBLY - A keyboard dome stiffener assembly includes a circuit board having a plurality of dome pads that each defines a venting aperture, a dome sheet disposed over the circuit board, and a stiffener disposed beneath the circuit board that defines a plurality of cutouts corresponding to each venting aperture. The dome pads correspond to a key of an associated keyboard to be assembled with the keyboard dome stiffener assembly. The dome sheet forms an air space associated with each dome pad that is in fluid communication with the corresponding venting aperture. The cutouts of the stiffener provide an air cavity between the circuit board and the stiffener. Each air cavity is in fluid communication with an air space, and when one of the keyboard keys is depressed, some of the air in the air space travels between the air space of the keyboard to the corresponding air cavity. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110209975 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY - A keypad assembly is described herein in which the keypad assembly includes a substrate and a plurality of domes positioned on the substrate and configured to translate operator action into a corresponding input for a machine. The keypad assembly also includes a dome overlay positioned over the domes and the substrate in which the dome overlay can create a sealed environment for the substrate and the domes. A light guide that directs light in the keypad assembly and an interlocking component coupled to the light guide can also be part of the keypad assembly. In one arrangement, the interlocking component can selectively compress the dome overlay to assist in the creation of the sealed environment. In another arrangement, the interlocking component can compress the dome overlay by bending the dome overlay at an edge of the substrate. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110214976 | WATERPROOF OPERATING DEVICE - A waterproof operating device has a pressure resistant housing including a support surface with one or more openings therethrough; a cover plate having corresponding openings therethrough; an elastic member having opposing major surfaces facing the support and cover plates with a protrusion extending from one major surface through an opening in the support surface. A button shaft extends through each pair of aligned openings into the protrusion. Each opposing major surface of the elastic member is maintained in direct continuous contact with the cover and support plates from the openings in the support and cover plates outward to beyond an area covered by the head portion of the button. The protrusion is dimensional for the selected elastic material and button dimensions to resist elongation from water pressure at greater than sixty meter depths, sufficient to actuate a switch element proximal to the distal end of the protrusion. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110220479 | KEYS WITH DOUBLE-DIVING-BOARD SPRING MECHANISMS - Keys may be formed for keyboards. The keyboards may be attached to electronic devices such as computers or may be formed within a portable computer or other electronic equipment. A keyboard may be provided with a planar housing member such as a top plate. The top plate may have openings through which key caps protrude. Each key cap may be attached to a respective spring mechanism. The spring mechanism for each key may have first and second diving-board structures that flex about respective parallel flex axes. A dome switch may be mounted under each spring mechanism. The dome switch is compressed when the key cap is pressed and the first diving-board structure moves towards the dome switch. The top plate may have edge portions surrounding each key opening that form upstop structures that prevent the key caps and spring mechanisms from tilting when the dome switch is compressed. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110220480 | IN-VEHICLE INPUT DEVICE - An in-vehicle input device includes a housing including a supporting member; an operating knob including a shaft hole (supported part) and supported by the supporting member in such a manner that the operating knob rocks; and a switch (a moving contact of a bulge and a fixed contact of a main substrate) operated by rocking the operating knob, wherein the operating knob has a notch defining an opening intersecting with a rocking axis on a first side intersecting with the rocking axis, and wherein a rotary knob, which is an operating (second operating knob) corresponding to another switch, is disposed in the notch. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110226600 | KEYSWITCH AND KEYBOARD - A keyswitch includes a key cap, a base, a first support member, a second support member and a link member. The base has a first restraining portion and a third restraining portion. The first support member is disposed between the key cap and the base. The first support member has a second restraining portion. The first restraining portion restrains the second restraining portion from moving in a direction perpendicular to the base. The second support member is disposed between the key cap and the base and opposite to the first support member. The second support member has a fourth restraining portion. The third restraining portion restrains the fourth restraining portion from moving in the direction perpendicular to the base. When the key cap is pressed to a bottom of the base, the second and fourth restraining portions are located under the first and third restraining portions respectively. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110233037 | Normally Closed Dome Switch - A normally closed dome switch comprises a printed circuit board including a switch trace having first and second contact areas electrically insulated from one another, and a conductive switch dome having a central portion spaced from the printed circuit board and a plurality of contacting portions extending from the central portion such that each of the first and second contact areas is contacted by at least one of the contacting portions when the switch dome is unpressed such that the unpressed switch dome forms a closed switch between the first and second contact areas. The switch dome is resiliently pressable to urge the central portion toward the printed circuit board and pivot the contacting portions about a corresponding fulcrum to remove the plurality of contacting portions of the switch dome from contact with at least one of the first and second contact areas to open the switch. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110233038 | ROOF SWITCH ASSEMBLY - A switch assembly comprises a housing, an actuating member mounted on the housing and a plurality of electrical switching members. The actuating member is able to translate frontward and backward and to pivot upward and downward, thus cooperating with the electrical switching members to control the roof displacements. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110233039 | MOBILE TERMINAL DEVICE AND KEYPAD - A mobile terminal device includes a keypad including an elastic sheet member, on a first surface of which a plurality of convex pressing portions for pressing switches are formed, and a key top member including first sheet portions disposed in areas overlapping the convex pressing portions, the areas being on a second surface different from the first surface of the elastic sheet member, and second sheet portions disposed in areas other than the areas overlapping the convex pressing portions on the second surface of the elastic sheet member, the second sheet portions having a thickness larger than that of the first sheet portions. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110233040 | KEYPAD HAVING THREE-DIMENSIONAL PATTERNS - A keypad having three-dimensional patterns includes a base layer, a light-guiding plate, a pattern layer, a shielding layer and a keycap layer. The light-guiding plate is overlapped on the base layer. The pattern layer is provided on the light-guiding plate. A plurality of three-dimensional patterns is provided on the front surface of the pattern layer. The shielding layer is coated on the back surface of the pattern layer, and is formed with a plurality of hollowed regions to correspond to the three-dimensional patterns. The keycap layer is overlapped on the pattern layer and formed with a plurality of keycaps to correspond to the three-dimensional patterns. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110240450 | INTEGRAL KEYBOARD ASSEMBLY - An integral keyboard assembly is provided. The integral keyboard assembly includes a top casing, a keyboard module, and a support plate. The first surface of the top casing is defined a keyboard bonding area where a plurality of openings is arranged as a keyboard structure distribution. The keyboard module includes multiple keys with interspaces formed therebetween. Each of the keys is inserted into a corresponding one of the openings. The support plate is coupled to the top casing so that the keyboard module is sandwiched between the top casing and the support plate. By implementing the present invention, the keyboard assembly has better integrity and space impression. Furthermore, the keyboard module is provided with improved support by utilizing the support plate. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240451 | KEY INPUT UNIT - Provided is a key input unit for facilitating a user's input operation, including a plurality of keys and a space key provided between two predetermined key columns among the plurality of keys. The key input unit also includes a plurality of keys and a predetermined region surrounding the plurality of keys, in which the predetermined region is used as a space function. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240452 | Keyboard - A keyboard includes keys are provided. Each key includes a base, inner and outer frames and a key cap. The base has a body, a first hook and two second hooks. The first and second hooks are connected to the body. Each second hook has an L-shaped portion with one end connected to the body, and an inverse hook portion extending from the other end of the L-shaped portion to the body to form a space. The inner frame disposed on the body has a first opening. The first hook passes through the first opening to engage with a portion of the inner frame. The outer frame disposed on the body crosses the inner frame and has two second openings. Each second hook passes through the corresponding second opening to receive a portion of the outer frame in the space. The key cap is on the inner and outer frames. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240453 | KEY MODULE FOR PORTABLE DEVICES - A key module for portable devices includes a PCB having at least one pair of high resistance film and welding point, a rubber key having a protruded key head, and a set of upper case and bottom case. The rubber key has two conducting carbon arcs opposite to the at least one pair of high resistance film on a concave backside thereof. A top of the head portion has a concave on a middle portion thereof and two protrusions on right and left ends thereof for specific input functions. The upper case has at least one through hole for revealing the concave and the protrusions of the head portion while the rubber key and the PCB are covered by the upper and bottom cases. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110247925 | KEYSWITCH MODULE AND KEYBOARD - A keyswitch module includes a base plate module and a keycap disposed on the base plate module. The base plate module includes a circuit board, a mylar and a light emitting source disposed on the circuit board. The mylar covers the circuit board, a protruding structure protrudes from the mylar, and a hole is formed on the protruding structure. The light emitting source is located in a position corresponding to the protruding structure. A space is formed between the protruding structure and the light emitting source. The keycap includes a transparent structure located in a position corresponding to the hole, wherein the light emitting source emits light to pass through the space, the hole on the protruding structure and the transparent structure of the keycap in sequence. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110253520 | LIGHT DIFFUSER ACTUATOR FILM (LDAF) KEYPAD MODULE - A keypad module which comprises a light diffuser actuator film (LDAF) and metal dome sub modular assembly for a total keypad solution that can overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, also being slim in thickness, consume less electrical energy as well as being easy to manufacture reducing the amount of involved human resources, consolidating plunger sheet and light guide film into one layer and also capable of providing a good tactile feel and an uniform luminescence on the key top, being properly applicable to telecommunication devices, remote controls, PDAs, car audios and controls etc as shown in FIG. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110259724 | METHOD AND TERMINAL FOR PROVIDING USER INTERFACE USING TILT SENSOR AND KEY INPUT - A method of providing a user interface in a terminal equipped with a tilt sensor. The method includes sensing an input of a key. The method also includes sensing a tilt input by the tilt sensor after sensing the input of the key. The method further includes performing a function corresponding to a combination of the key and the tilt input, when the tilt sensor senses the tilt input. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110272262 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD - A luminous keyboard includes plural keys, a membrane circuit board, at least one light-emitting element and a base. The light-emitting element serves as a light source of the luminous keyboard. The base is used for supporting the plural keys, the membrane circuit board and the light-emitting element. At least one component of the membrane circuit board is made of light-guiding material, so that the membrane circuit board possesses a light-guiding function. That is, the luminous keyboard has simplified configurations and the overall thickness thereof is reduced. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110272263 | METAL DOME SHEET COMPRISING CONDUCTIVITY SHEET - The keypad assembly uses a metal dome sheet that shields electromagnetic waves and noise. A metal dome is placed on a base sheet. And a conductive sheet is placed above the base sheet to shield electromagnetic waves and noise. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110278146 | KEY SWITCH AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE - Key switches and an electronic device are provided, which have excellent design in which the key tops cover at least the whole of the width direction and the sides. A key switch ( | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110278147 | KEYBOARD DEVICE - A keyboard device includes at least an illuminant element, at least a pressing key element and a light guide element. The pressing key element includes a keycap reciprocating along a first axial direction when being pressed and a recovering component attached to the keycap for supporting and pushing back the keycap when not pressed. The light guide element is located at one side of the recovering component. The light guide element includes at least a light-incident part and a light-emitting part. The light-incident part is used for receiving light emitted from the illuminant element. The light-emitting part emits light along a second axial direction to the recovering component so that the recovering components guide light to the keycap, wherein the second axial direction is different to the first axial direction. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110284355 | Keyboard - A keyboard includes: a membrane circuit substrate; a press key set including a one-piece membrane and a plurality of rigid reinforcing plates, the membrane having a plurality of resilient keycap portions and a connecting portion extending among and interconnecting the keycap portions, the connecting portion being fixed to the membrane circuit substrate, the keycap portions protruding upwardly from the connecting portion, each of the keycap portions having a press wall, and a surrounding wall extending downwardly from the press wall to the connecting portion, each of the reinforcing plates being disposed over the press wall of a corresponding one of the keycap portions; and a plurality of elastic members each of which is disposed between the press wall and the membrane circuit substrate. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110284356 | Keypad plunger structure and method of making the same - A keypad plunger structure and a method of making the keypad structure, in which, a polymer film (such as a PET film) and a plunger material layer (such as a silicone rubber) are co-molded to form a co-molded article including the polymer film and a plurality of plungers. The co-molded article is utilized to attach a plurality of metal domes on a printed circuit board through an adhesive layer. The plungers are located correspondingly to the metal domes. Before the co-molding process, the other side of the polymer film may be combined with an adhesive and a release paper, which further facilitates the manufacturing process. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110290628 | MEMBRANE KEYBOARD WITH PARTS BEING FIXEDLY SECURED TOGETHER - A membrane keyboard includes transparent keys, bridge structures each with the key mounted thereon, a plastic board, a frame board, a film circuit board, an insulative board, a light guide film plate, a base board, and fasteners for fastening the plastic board, the frame board, the film circuit board, the insulative board, and the light guide film plate on the base board. The plastic board, the frame board, the film circuit board, the insulative board, the light guide film plate, the base board, and the fasteners are secured together by subjecting to ultrasonic welding. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110290629 | INPUT DEVICE FOR A MOBILE TERMINAL - An input device for a mobile terminal is disclosed herein. The input device may include a keypad having a plurality of buttons, a printed circuit board provided below the keypad to convert an input on the keypad to an electric signal, at least one light source configured to illuminate the keypad, and a light guide film provided between the keypad and the printed circuit board. The at least one light source may be positioned to emit light toward a light receiving surface positioned at a lateral surface of the light guide film. A height of the light receiving surface may be formed to be greater than a thickness of the light guide film. Accordingly, illumination of the keypad may be increased without increasing the overall thickness of the light guide film or the body of a mobile terminal. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110297523 | BACK LIGHTED MEMBRANE KEYBOARD WITH COMPONENTS BEING SECURED TOGETHER BY SUBJECTING TO ULTRASONIC WELDING - A back lighted membrane keyboard includes a key housing, a membrane, a key support plate, a membrane circuit board, an insulative plate, a light guide membrane plate, and a base plate. The key housing, the membrane, the key support plate, the membrane circuit board, the insulative plate, and the light guide membrane plate are aligned by inserting stems thereinto. Eventually, these components are subjected to ultrasonic welding to be bound together. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110303517 | KEYBOARD WITH REPLACEABLE KEYS - A keyboard includes a plurality of keys. Each key includes a base, a key cap detachably connected to the base and includes at least two conductors, a flexible element connected between the key cap and the base, and a plurality of conduct lines mounted on the base. The conduct lines are not contacting each other. One end of each conduct line is connected to a processing unit. Each conduct line is assigned a code. If the key cap of one key is pressed, the conductors of the key contacts the conduct lines, thereby creating an electrical connection between the two conduct lines, and generating an electrical signal. The processing unit determines the function of the key according to the codes of the connected conduct lines. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110308927 | STRUCTURE FOR OPERATING PIVOT SWITCHES OF MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH ASSEMBLY - A multi-function switch assembly configured to implement a push switch function is provided. A structure for operating pivot switches of the multi-function switch assembly includes a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) disposed between upper and lower casings coupled together to face each other, push. switches and rotary switches mounted on the PCB, pivot switches mounted on a bottom of the PCB, a pair of sliders disposed to cross each other at a bottom of the lower casing and configured to laterally ground and operate the pivot switches in eight directions while operating in conjunction with a manipulation direction of the actuation lever, and alignment means configured to elastically support at least one of bottoms of the pair of sliders so that restoring force of a neutral state is generated. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308928 | Switch, In Particular Switch Disconnector For Low Voltages - A switch is disclosed, in particular a switch disconnector for low voltages, including at least one cuboid pole housing; a switching shaft which runs transversely with respect to the side walls and disconnects contact elements which are resting on one another in order to open the switch; and an aperture opening formed in one wall of the pole housing. In order to prevent the risk of an electrical flashover to the rear wall, it is proposed in at least one embodiment, that the aperture opening is formed in a side wall, to which a channel is connected, which dissipates any overpressure that occurs in the pole housing in an end-face outlet direction. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20120000759 | DEFLECTION WEB FOR A KEYPAD ASSEMBLY - A deflection web is provided for use in a keypad assembly. The deflection web comprises a plurality of actuators resiliently coupled together by a flexible membrane. Each actuator of the deflection web corresponds to a key of the keypad assembly, and for each actuator, the flexible membrane comprises a corresponding radially outwardly extending flange whose thickness varies in a direction from the corresponding actuator. In some instances, the thickness of the flange may increase as the flange extends a distance radially outward from its corresponding actuator. A method for creating the deflection web of the keypad assembly and a method for assembling the keypad assembly are also provided. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120006665 | GAS-INSULATED SWITCHGEAR ASSEMBLY - A gas-insulated switchgear assembly is provided. The gas-insulated switchgear assembly includes at least one busbar which defines an axial direction. The busbar includes encapsulation which surrounds at least one nominal conductor. The encapsulation includes at least one pair of axially adjacent modules which are connected to one another via a compensation unit. The pair of modules are attached by at least one tie rod, which extends in the axial direction and is attached to a first attachment point of the first module and to the second attachment point of the second module. A thermal change in the length in the axial direction of the at least one tie rod between the first attachment point and the second attachment point, a thermal change in the axial direction in the distance between the first attachment point of the first module and the first reference point, and a thermal change in the axial direction in the distance between the second attachment point of the second module and the second reference point are at least partially compensated for such that the module distance changes by less than a predetermined amount in the axial direction when the encapsulation is heated or cooled. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006666 | KEYSWITCH AND KEYBOARD - A keyswitch includes a key cap, a base, a circuit board, a film, a resilient member and a pressure sensing member. The circuit board is disposed on the base. The film is disposed on the circuit board. The resilient member is disposed between the film and the key cap. The pressure sensing member is disposed at a position selected from a group consisting of a position between the resilient member and the film, a position between the film and the circuit board, and a position between the circuit board and the base. When the key cap is pressed by an external force, the pressure sensing member senses a magnitude of the external force. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120012448 | KEYBOARD ILLUMINATION - Methods and apparatuses disclosed herein relate to backlit visual display elements. One embodiment may take the form a keyboard including at least one keycap, a dome switch layer underlying the keycap, and an encapsulation layer underlying the dome switch layer. The encapsulation layer may include a first printed circuit layer configured to transmit a signal corresponding to the at least one keycap. The keyboard may further include a light emissive layer underlying the encapsulation layer. The light emissive layer may include at least one emissive area corresponding to the at least one keycap and a second printed circuit layer configured to supply a voltage to the at least one emissive area. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120018288 | KEYPAD HAVING TAMPER-RESISTANT KEYS - A tamper resistant keypad includes one or more key assemblies having a resilient key member and a contact. The resilient key member is configured to flex when the key assembly is depressed to allow the contact to close a key press detection circuit on a circuit board to register a key press. A tamper detection switch assembly at least partially surrounds the resilient key member. The tamper detection switch assembly is configured to detect attempts to access the key assembly. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120018289 | LOCAL LIGHTING KEYBOARD - A local lighting keyboard includes a baseboard, a plurality of keycaps movable up and down against the baseboard, and a circuit board located between the baseboard and the keycaps that is depressible by the keycaps in the up and down movement to output corresponding signals. A mask is provided beneath the keycaps that has a light permeable zone and an impermeable zone, and at least one light source located below a lower surface of the mask. The light source emits light which is transmitted below the mask and passes through the permeable zone to project upwards outside the keyboard. Thus locations of the keycaps are easier to distinguish and keystroke accuracy improves. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120018290 | KEY STRUCTURE - A key structure includes a substrate, a key cover positioned on the substrate, a first fixed contact, a second fixed contact and a conductive portion. The key cover includes a first movable contact, a second movable contact and a fixed portion. The first movable contact, the second movable contact and the fixed portion are located at inner surface of the key cover. The first fixed contact, the second fixed contact and the conductive portion are electrically positioned on the substrate and correspond to the first movable contact, the second movable contact and the fixed portion. When the key cover deforms, the first movable contact and the second movable contact move toward the substrate, the second movable contact and the first movable contact electrically contact the second fixed contact and the second fixed contact to generate a first command signal and a second command signal. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120024682 | TWO-LEVEL PRESSURE SENSITIVE KEYBOARD - A two-level pressure sensitive keyboard includes at least one key and a membrane switch circuit module. The membrane switch circuit module includes a first contact, a second contact, a first spacing layer for separating the first contact from the second contact, a third contact, a fourth contact, and a second spacing layer for separating the third contact from the fourth contact. The thickness of the second spacing layer is greater than that of the first spacing layer. When the key is depressed in response to the first pressure, the first contact and the second contact are electrically connected with each other to generate a first sensing signal. When the key is depressed in response to the second pressure, the first contact and the second contact are electrically connected with each other and the third contact and fourth contact are electrically connected with each other to generate a second sensing signal. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024683 | TACTILE INTERFACE FOR A COMPACT ELECTRONIC DEVICE - In a compact electronic device having switches controlling a plurality of commands, the user interface is conditionally modified to enable the user to invoke a subset of the total command set under conditions of diminished tactile or visual acuity. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024684 | SEGMENTAL ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT BREAKER AND INSTALLATION COMPRISING SAME - A circuit breaker includes several elementary circuit breakers ( | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120031746 | TOUCH SCREEN AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - The present invention provides a method of manufacturing a touch screen, comprising the steps of: a) forming a conductive layer on a substrate; b) forming an etching resist pattern on the conductive layer; and c) forming a conductive pattern having a line width smaller than the line width of the etching resist pattern by over-etching the conductive layer by using the etching resist pattern and a touch screen manufactured by the method. According to the present invention, a touch screen comprising a conductive pattern having an ultrafine line width can be economically and efficiently provided. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120037484 | Key Device for Mobile Phone - The present invention discloses a key device for a mobile phone, which comprises a printed circuit board (PCB), a key disposed on the PCB and a metal dome disposed above the key. The metal dome is able to make electrical contact with the key. The key comprises a first electrode, a second electrode and a third electrode, and the third electrode is formed as two rings in which the first electrode and the second electrode are disposed respectively. In the key device for a mobile phone provided by the present invention, the key is formed with three electrodes, so when the metal dome makes contact with the first electrode or the second electrode, the three electrodes of the key are electrically connected with each other simultaneously. This imparts the key for a mobile phone with the compatibility, thereby reducing the product cost and shortening the duration of research and development. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120043191 | SINGLE SUPPORT LEVER KEYBOARD MECHANISM - A keyboard mechanism for a low-travel keyboard and methods of fabrication are described. The low-travel keyboard is suitable for a thin-profile computing device, such as a laptop computer, netbook computer, desktop computer, etc. The keyboard includes a key cap that can be formed of a variety of materials in the form of a flat slab. The key cap is attached to one end of a support lever that supports it from underneath. In one embodiment, the support lever is formed of a rigid material and is pivotally coupled with a substrate on the other end. In another embodiment, the support lever is formed of a flexible material and is fixedly attached to the substrate on the other end. The portion of the support lever that is attached to the key cap is positioned over a metal dome that can be deformed to activate the switch circuitry of the membrane on printed circuit board underneath the dome. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120043192 | KEYPAD MODULE FOR PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE - A keypad module includes a light source, a light guide plate and a keypad. The light guide plate includes a plurality of coarse surfaces. The keypad forms a plurality of ribs corresponding to the coarse surfaces. The light source is positioned in the light guide plate, the coarse surfaces and the ribs guiding light of the light source to uniform on the light guide plate. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120073941 | BACKLIGHTING APPARATUS FOR A KEYPAD ASSEMBLY - A keypad assembly including a dome configured to operatively engage a switch sensor; a dome overlay guide operatively coupled by to the dome; a key corresponding to the dome and configured to operatively engage the dome; and a light emitting source, configured to emit light. The dome overlay guide is configured to receive the light emitted by the light emitting source and direct the received light toward the keys. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120073942 | KEYSWITCH AND KEYBOARD - A keyswitch includes a base, a circuit board, a resilient support member and a key cap. The circuit board is disposed on the base and has a switch. The resilient support member is disposed on the circuit board. The resilient support member includes a trigger portion, a resilient portion and a support portion, wherein the resilient portion connects the trigger portion and the support portion, and the trigger portion faces the switch on the circuit board. The key cap is disposed on the resilient support member. The support portion of the resilient support member supports the key cap over the base. When the key cap is pressed, the trigger portion of the resilient support member triggers the switch and the resilient portion provides an elastic force for the key cap. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120073943 | KEYSWITCH AND KEYBOARD - A keyswitch includes a base, a circuit board, a film, a resilient member, a support member and a key cap. The circuit board is disposed on the base and has a switch. The film is disposed on the circuit board. The resilient member is fixed on the film and opposite to the switch on the circuit board. The support member is disposed on the film and has a driving portion, wherein the driving portion is opposite to the resilient member. The key cap is disposed on the support member. When the key cap is pressed, the driving portion drives the resilient portion to trigger the switch. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120073944 | SWITCH INTEGRATED CASING AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT HAVING THE CASING - A switch integrated type housing includes a housing body, a switch button sheet, a conductor and a cover sheet. The housing body is provided with a plurality of concave sections on an outer surface of the housing body. The switch button sheet is provided on the outer surface to cover the plurality of concave sections. The conductor has a dome shape downwardly projecting and is provided in each of the plurality of concave sections to contact the switch button sheet. The cover sheet is provided between the switch button sheet and the outer surface of the housing body in a portion of the outer surface of the housing body other than the plurality of concave sections and to cover a lower surface of the conductor in each of the plurality of concave sections. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120080299 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD - An illuminated keyboard includes a supporting plate, a transparent frame plate, a key, a light source and a membrane switch circuit module. The light source is arranged between the key and the transparent frame plate. The transparent frame plate is disposed on said supporting plate for enhancing the structural strength of the illuminated keyboard. The light beam emitted by the light source is incident into the transparent frame plate, reflected by the supporting plate, and transmitted through the transparent frame plate, the membrane switch circuit module and the key. In such way, the key is illuminated. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120080300 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD - An illuminated keyboard includes a transparent frame plate, a key, a light source and a membrane switch circuit module. The light beam emitted by the light source is transmissible through the transparent frame plate. Consequently, the light source may be disposed on the membrane switch circuit module, between the key and the transparent frame plate, or under the transparent frame plate. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120085632 | KEYPAD APPARATUS FOR PORTABLE COMMUNICATION DEVICE - Provided is a keypad apparatus for a portable communication device structured to have a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) including a plurality of dome switches and a plurality of Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs). The keypad apparatus includes a waveguide sheet portion provided on the dome switches, a plurality of printed surfaces which are printed on a top surface of the waveguide sheet portion and adjust a brightness of light from the LEDs, in a stepwise manner from a position distant from the LEDs to a position adjacent to the LEDs, and a keypad provided on the printed surfaces. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120090973 | ILLUMINATED MEMBRANE KEYBOARD - An illuminated membrane keyboard includes a keys monoblock; a membrane structure formed of a resilient, transparent film and mounted over the keys monoblock, the membrane structure comprising a plurality of rectangular cavities protruded from a top of the membrane structure for covering on the keys monoblock; a keyboard housing mounted to an edge of the keys monoblock; and a light source assembly mounted on an inner surface of the keyboard housing and comprising a printed circuit board (PCB) and a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) mounted on the PCB for illuminating the keys monoblock. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120090974 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD OF NOTEBOOK COMPUTER - An illuminated keyboard of a notebook computer includes a base, a base cover, a key module and a light-guiding and supporting plate. The base is sheltered by the base cover. The light-guiding and supporting plate is disposed under a base cover opening of the base cover and fixed on the base cover. Since the key module is supported on the light-guiding and supporting plate and exposed outside the base cover opening, the thickness of the illuminated keyboard is not increased, and it is not necessary to shorten the travelling distance of the key module. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120097511 | LIGHTED KEYBOARD - A lighted keyboard includes transparent, rectangular keys each comprising a bottom stem; scissors shaped structures disposed under the keys, each scissors shaped structure being aligned with the stem and comprising a first frame and a second frame pivotally secured together; an OLED sheet disposed under the scissors shaped structures and comprising units each including a hole; an optically transmissive rubber plate disposed under the OLED sheet and comprising units each including a resilient dome passing through the hole of the unit of the OLED sheet, the resilient dome having a conductive shaft aligned with the stem; a membrane circuit board disposed under the rubber plate and comprising a plurality of contacts each aligned with the conductive shaft; and a rectangular aluminum plate disposed under the membrane circuit board and comprising units each including snapping grooves and a slide guide groove secured to the scissors shaped structure. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120097512 | IN-CELL TOUCH PANEL FOR FLAT PANEL DISPLAY DEVICE - The present disclosure relates to an in-cell touch panel embedded into the flat panel display devices. The present disclosure suggests an in-cell touch panel for flat panel display device comprising: a transparent substrate; a routing part having a conductive material formed on an inner side of the transparent substrate; a plurality of sensor lines running to a first direction on the inner side of the transparent substrate; a plurality of driving lines that each driving line has a plurality of segments running to a second direction between the sensor lines; a first insulating layer covering the sensor lines and the driving lines; a connecting part linking the segments of the driving line to the second direction; and a second insulating layer covering the whole surface of the transparent substrate having the connecting part. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120097513 | DUST-PROOF KEYBOARD - A dust-proof keyboard includes a keyboard main body and a plurality of keyboard keys ( | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120103776 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING A MULTI-MODE KEYBOARD - A multi-mode keyboard for a portable electronic device is provided. The keyboard comprising: a layer of flexible transparent touch sensors for receiving touch input; a layer of flexible output device; and a dome sheet for receiving key click input. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120111708 | SWITCH DEVICE - A first operation portion and a second operation portion are depressed in a direction orthogonal to a surface of an electronic circuit board, at least the first operation portion is shifted relative to the center of a first switch, and travel distances or depression forces of a depression operation necessary for respective first and second protrusions to reach respective first and second depression faces are equal to each other. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120111709 | Switch Device - A switch device includes a lid arranged between a tactile switch, which is arranged on a substrate, and an operation button, which is coupled to a retainer so that the operation button can be pushed. The lid includes an opening at a location corresponding to the tactile switch. A lower surface of the elastic member is coupled to a surface of the lid. The operation button, when pushed, activates the tactile switch with an elastic member. The operation body, when released from the pushed state, deactivates the tactile switch as a reaction force of the elastic member returns the operation button to an initial position. The switch device includes a projection that supports the operation button. The projection is formed on an upper surface of the elastic member at a location corresponding to the surface of the lid. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120111710 | MOBILE TERMINAL KEYBOARD - A mobile terminal keyboard comprises a keyboard body and a key, where sidewalls of the key can produce a cavity so as to form a capsule structure. The keyboard body and the sidewalls can be made of a transparent material; and transparent liquid can be included in the cavity. The mobile terminal keyboard can be convenient for a user and humanized. Light can pass through the transparent liquid in the cavity from one or more directions and generate refraction to form a colorful effect. The liquid in the cavity also can be deformed to generate various color changes on the press of a key. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120111711 | MOBILE TERMINAL - Disclosed is a mobile terminal. The mobile terminal of the present invention comprises: a front case having a keypad-accommodating portion; a rear case attachably/detachably coupled to a rear surface of the front case such that a component-accommodating space, in which a main PCB is arranged, is interposed between the front case and the rear case; and a keypad which has a plurality of key buttons, and which is made of a flexible material, and which is accommodated in the keypad-accommodating portion of the front case. The keypad has an edge on which a water-resistant blade extends toward the keypad-accommodating portion. The keypad-accommodating portion has a bottom surface on which a blade insertion rain is formed to enable a portion of the water-resistant blade to be inserted into the rail. The mobile terminal of the present invention has a simple structure to enable easy manufacture and assembly, and in particular prevents water or moisture from entering a keypad area. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120118716 | ROTARY INTERLOCK MECHANISM FOR ELECTRICAL SWITCHES - Rotary switch interlock mechanisms and electrical switch assemblies with a rotary switch interlock mechanism are presented herein. An electrical distribution device with at least two electrical switches is disclosed. Each of the electrical switches has a switch actuator that is movable between engaged and disengaged positions. A rotary interlock member is rotatably mounted to the housing of the electrical distribution device adjacent the first and second electrical switches. The rotary interlock member is rotatable 180 degrees between a first orientation, whereat the rotary member allows the switch actuator of the second electrical switch into its engaged position while preventing the switch actuator of the first electrical switch from being moved into its engaged position, and a second orientation, whereat the rotary member allows the first switch actuator to be moved into its engaged position while preventing the second switch actuator from being moved into its engaged position. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120118717 | Actuator for a Rocker Switch - A rocker switch may include a housing and an actuator pivotably mounted relative to the housing for movement between an initial position and an actuated position. The actuator may include an exterior face defining a first contact surface and a second contact surface, the first contact surface being substantially planar and disposed within a first contact plane, and the second contact surface being substantially planar and disposed within a second contact plane, wherein the second contact plane is spaced from and substantially parallel to the first contact plane. The contact surfaces are oriented to clearly indicate, by look and/or feel, whether the rocker switch is in a first position or a second position, thereby allowing a position of the switch to be readily discerned | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120118718 | Switching Devices for Medical Apparatuses and Related Systems and Methods - In some aspects, a switching device for a medical apparatus includes a first switching member adapted to select an assigned operating function of the medical apparatus; and a second switching member adapted to permit the selecting of the assigned operating function of the first switching member. The second switching member is adapted such that it has a detection space in which it detects a presence of an operating object; and the first switching member is arranged in the detection space of the second switching member. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120125753 | SIDE BUTTON STRUCTURE FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICE - A side button structure includes a housing with switches, and a button assembly moveably fixed on the housing; the button assembly includes a flexible pin and at least one pressing blocks, the flexible pin passing through the pressing blocks. Pressing the button assembly enables the flexible pin to deform, the button assembly to move to the housing, and the pressing blocks to attach to the switches. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125754 | SWITCH DEVICE - In the switch device including the case in which switches are accommodated, tube portions provided on an upper surface of the case, operation knobs swingably provided to the tube portions, operation rods for transmitting movement of the operation knobs to the switches, and the cover covering the upper surface of the case while exposing the operation knobs, projections protruding on the side of the cover are provided on the upper surface of the case, projections protruding on the side of the case are provided on a back surface of the cover, and the projections are arranged in a space between the cover and the case formed when the case is covered by the cover so as to be overlapped with each other when seen from the front and back direction. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120132509 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY, AND IMAGE FORMING DEVICE AND DATA PROCESSOR INCORPORATING THE SAME - A keypad assembly includes a first keypad element including a first frame element, first elastic elements connecting with the first frame element, keycaps swingably connected to the first frame element via the first elastic elements, and pressing elements protruding downward from the keycaps, and a second keypad element including a second frame element, second elastic elements connecting with the second frame element, keycaps swingably connected to the second frame element via the second elastic elements, and pressing elements protruding downward from the keycaps. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120138439 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH BUTTONS - An electronic device includes a housing, a button mechanism fixed to the housing, a switch circuit, at least two switches and at least one support. The button mechanism includes a button body, at least two buttons integrated on the button body, and a stopper formed between every each two adjacent buttons. The switches are covered by the button mechanism and connect to the switch circuit. The at lease one support is fixed to the housing and one of the at least one support is positioned between two adjacent switches. When one of the buttons is pressed, the pressed button activates the corresponding switch and the adjacent support of the switch resists the adjacent stopper of the pressed button. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120138440 | METHOD FOR SETTING FUNCTION OPTIONS AND MULTI FUNCTION PERIPHERAL USING THE SAME - A method for setting function options and a multi function peripheral (MFP) using the same are provided. The MFP at least includes an image sensor and an option switch, wherein the option switch includes a sliding groove and a shift lever, and the shift lever is disposed in sliding way in the sliding groove. The method includes using the image sensor to obtain an option image of the option switch; judging a corresponding position relating to the shift lever in the option image; and setting a peripheral function according to a function option corresponding to the corresponding position. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120138441 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY FOR PORTABLE TERMINAL - A keypad assembly includes an operation member deformed according to user's manipulation to operate key switches, a binding member disposed on a top surface of the operation member, binding pieces extending and bent from the binding member to enclose sides of the operation member on an edge of the binding member, and a manipulation member disposed on a top surface of the binding member, the manipulation member including at least one key tops, in which the binding members are bound onto inner side walls of a housing of the portable terminal. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120152715 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD - The present invention discloses a luminous keyboard. The luminous keyboard includes an illumination element, a membrane circuit board, and a plurality of keys. The membrane circuit board includes an upper board and a lower board with a plurality of light guide points. The lower board and the upper board have a first circuit layout and a second circuit layout respectively to form a plurality of membrane switches. The plurality of light guide points of the lower board are used to aggregate and scatter light beams provided by the illumination element. Besides, the lower board includes a first membrane and a second membrane in order to increase the upward-scattering light quality of the plurality of light guide points. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152716 | SWITCHGEAR - It is an object to provide a switchgear capable of alleviating burden to a manager. In order to solve the aforementioned problem, the switchgear according to the present invention includes a plurality of compatible switch units each provided in a housing and closing/interrupting/ground functions so that the plurality of switch units are connected to supply power to the load side. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152717 | KEYBOARD AND ELECTRONIC APPARATUS - Disclosed herein is a keyboard, including: a membrane switch having contacts disposed at positions thereof corresponding to keys; a spacer member provided on the membrane switch and having openings at least at portions thereof corresponding to the keys; a resilient member provided on the spacer member and spaced from and opposed to the membrane switch through the openings; and a key member provided at a portion of the resilient member which corresponds to each of the keys. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120160650 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE HAVING MISOPERATION PREVENTION BUTTON - An electronic device proofed against unintended consequences when a button is depressed is provided. The electronic device includes a case, a movable pad rotatably received in the case, and a button body movably attached to the case and above the movable pad. The movable pad includes at least one switch arranged thereon. The button body includes at least one protruding post corresponding to the at least one switch and facing to the movable pad. The electronic device further includes a driving member slidably connected to the case and connected to the movable pad, sliding the driving member in one direction effectively isolates the movable pad from the button body, and sliding it in the reverse direction restores the connection. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120160651 | MULTI-DIRECTIONAL SWITCH DEVICE - In a multi-directional switch device including: an operation body which moves to be inclined in multiple directions; four actuators which are operated to be pressed by an inclination operation of the operation body so as to be moved; and three switch elements which perform switching operations by the movements of the actuators, the first actuator causes the first switch element to perform the switching operation, the second actuator causes the second switch element to perform the switching operation, the third actuator causes the third switch element to perform the switching operation, and the fourth actuator causes the first switch element to perform the switching operation, such that the plurality of actuators are disposed at positions where any of the three switch elements performs the switching operation even through the operation body is operated to be inclined in any direction. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120160652 | KEYBOARD WITH PLATE-TYPE KEYCAP ASSEMBLY - A plate-type keycap assembly is used in a keyboard. A main body, a keycap, and a connecting part of the keycap assembly are integrated monolithically and form a plate structure with substantially equal thickness. When the main body of the keycap assembly is constrained by a cover and a pedestal part, the keycap in the keyboard is formed as a cantilever structure via the connecting part. The cantilever structure enables the keycap for moving up and down steadily, which no longer needs scissors-type structure in the keyboard. Accordingly, the keyboard may be simplified and miniaturized when utilizing such keycap assembly. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120160653 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD - A plurality of light-transmittable or transparent keycaps is disposed on a luminous keyboard. Between a bottom surface of each keycap and a circuit board, printed layers with various patterns corresponding to each keycap are disposed therebetween. The pattern of each printed layer is composed by a light-transmittable section and an opaque section. A light source module, which is composed by a light guide plate and a light emitting diode, can further be added to the luminous keyboard, under each keycap, so as to provide a self luminous light source for the keyboard. With the light-transmittable or transparent keycaps, the patterns or texts of the printed layers can be shown. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120186960 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH SWITCHES TO SELECTIVELY CONTROL SAFE ACCESS - An exemplary electronic device includes a casing, a first switch, a second switch and a switch control unit. The second switch is connected in parallel with the first switch. The casing includes a side plate and a top plate detachably connected with a top end of the side plate. The first switch is turned on when the top plate mounted to the side plate and turned off when the top plate detached from the side plate. The switch control unit includes a sliding member mounted at the second switch. The sliding member includes a pressing plate and is moveable relative to the side plate between a first position in which the pressing plate aligned with and pressing the second switch to turn on the second switch and a second position in which the pressing plate is staggered with the second switch to turn off the second switch. | 07-26-2012 |
| 20120186961 | INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS AND OPERATION INPUT DEVICE - An information processing apparatus includes a keyboard having a plurality of keys. The keyboard includes a sheet having a plurality of switch units for switching a non-conductive state and a conductive state according to operation with which the plurality of keys are respectively pressed down, the sheet having a first opening portion at a position corresponding to at least one of the keys, and a light emitting member provided below the sheet to emit light toward the key, the light emitting member having a second opening portion at a position corresponding to at least one of the keys. | 07-26-2012 |
| 20120186962 | GROUP OF MOMENTARY-CONTACT SWITCHES AS CONTROL PANEL WHICH CAN BE ILLUMINATED IN MOTOR VEHICLES - A pushbutton switch array is proposed which provides an illuminatable operating surface and manages with only few light sources without requiring any separate optical waveguide structures. The pushbutton switch array has a frame which is covered by a transparent film and includes recesses which have actuating elements accommodated therein for displacement. The actuating elements are configured to have light-guiding and light-coupling structures. A shared light source is, or only few shared light sources are, optically coupled to the light-coupling structures of the actuating elements which, for their part, are optically coupled to each other by adjoining light-coupling structures. The light-guiding structures guide the light coupled into the actuating elements to the actuating surface adjacent to the film. The actuating elements may be provided with symbols on their actuating surface adjoining the film, the symbols being visible through the film. Preferably, however, it is the film itself which is provided with symbols and/or legends which are assigned to the actuating elements arranged therebehind. These symbols are then illuminated by the actuating elements. | 07-26-2012 |
| 20120193203 | CARBON NANOTUBE BASED KEYBOARD - A keyboard includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a first electrode layer and a second electrode layer. The first substrate includes a first upper surface and a first lower surface. The second substrate is located apart from the first substrate and includes a second upper surface and a second lower surface. The second upper surface faces the first lower surface. The first electrode layer is located on the first lower surface and includes a first conductive layer including a carbon nanotube layer structure. The second electrode layer is located on the second upper surface and includes a second conductive layer. A number of keys is located on the first upper surface or the second lower surface. | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120193204 | CARBON NANOTUBE BASED KEYBOARD - A keyboard includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a first electrode layer, and a second electrode layer. The first substrate includes a first upper surface and a first lower surface opposite the first upper surface. The second substrate is positioned apart from the first substrate and includes a second upper surface and a second lower surface. The second upper surface faces the first lower surface. The first electrode layer is positioned on the first lower surface and includes a number of first conductive layers disposed apart from each other and including a carbon nanotube layer structure. The second electrode layer is positioned on the second upper surface and includes a second conductive layer. A number of keys is positioned on the first upper surface or the second lower surface. | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120193205 | CARBON NANOTUBE BASED KEYBOARD - A keyboard includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a first electrode layer and a second electrode layer. The first substrate includes a first upper surface and a first lower surface opposite the first upper surface. The second substrate is positioned apart from the first substrate and includes a second upper surface and a second lower surface. The second upper surface faces the first lower surface. The first electrode layer is positioned on the first lower surface and comprises a plurality of first conductive layers disposed apart from each other and including at least one lead wire. The second electrode layer is positioned on the second upper surface and includes a second conductive layer including a carbon nanotube layer structure. A plurality of keys is positioned on the first upper surface or the second lower surface. | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120193206 | KEYPAD APPARATUS FOR PORTABLE COMMUNICATION DEVICE - A keypad apparatus for a portable communication device in which a plurality of pressurizing protrusions are integrated with a plurality of dome switches is provided. To this end, the keypad apparatus includes a keypad comprising a plurality of key buttons, a front frame provided on a top surface of the keypad, a light path provided on a bottom surface of the keypad, and a plurality of dome switches provided on a bottom surface of the light path, such that a respective plurality of pressurizing protrusions are integrated with the plurality of dome switches on top surfaces of the plurality of dome switches. | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120193207 | ENCRYPTION KEYBOARD - An encryption keyboard is provided, especially an encryption keyboard including a front spying and detecting protection system. The encryption keyboard comprises a panel and a main control panel. A sealed flexible printed circuit board (PCB) is set between the panel and the main control panel. A circuit for preventing from spying and detecting is set in the sealed flexible circuit. The circuit for preventing from spying and detecting is connected to the surface of the sealed flexible circuit through a circuit pin, and is connected electrically to the control circuit of the main control panel for realizing a self-destroyed function through the circuit pin. The keyboard also includes a split style key grain, which comprises a keycap and a press post. The keycap comprises a cap top and an admission space which is positioned on the undersurface of the cap top and includes a downward opening. The keycap sockets the press post through the admission space, and a gap matching is formed between the press post and the wall of the admission space. | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120199457 | ELECTRONIC MOBILE DEVICE SEAMLESS KEY/DISPLAY STRUCTURE - A key/display assembly includes first and second switches, a display module, and a lens is disposed adjacent the display module. The lens includes a first contact region, a second contact region, and an inner surface that supports a first foot between the first contact region and the second contact region. A first key is defined by the first switch and the first contact region and is actuated by deflecting the first contact region to actuate the first switch. A second key is defined by the second switch and the second contact region and is actuated by deflecting the second contact region to actuate the second switch. When actuating the first key, the first foot inhibits the second contact region from actuating the second switch. When actuating the second key, the first foot inhibits the first contact region from actuating the first switch. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120199458 | KEY SWITCH DEVICE AND KEYBOARD - A key switch device including a key top; a pair of link members connected to the key top and interlocked with each other to guide a vertical motion of the key top; a switch mechanism including a membrane sheet switch capable of opening and closing a contact section of an electrical circuit in accordance with the vertical motion of the key top; a flexible thin film sheet attached to the membrane sheet switch; and a housing attached to the thin film sheet, the housing adapted to connect the link members to the thin film sheet. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120199459 | PUSH-BUTTON SWITCH HAVING CAPACITIVE TOUCHING DETECTION - A pushbutton switch has a pressure switching function to recognize a key actuation and a capacitive sensor function to recognize a key touch. It has an at least partly electrically conductive key ( | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120205227 | GROUP OF MOMENTARY-CONTACT SWITCHES AS UNIFORM CONTROL PANEL IN MOTOR VEHICLES - A pushbutton switch array is proposed which provides a uniform operating surface in which switching units are distinguished from dummy elements only by symbols provided on the switching units and the switching units are realized with few functional parts. The pushbutton switch array has a frame which is covered by a transparent film and includes recesses which selectively have an actuating element accommodated therein for displacement or a dummy element accommodated therein so as to be non-displaceable. The actuating elements are provided with symbols on the surface thereof facing the film and hold a printed circuit board at the opposite end. The printed circuit board carries a switch element that cooperates with a contact element on an opposite base plate. The transparent film, which completely covers the frame along with the actuating elements and the dummy elements, provides a continuous smooth surface. Arranged behind the film are the actuating elements, which are identifiable only by the selectively illuminated symbols. | 08-16-2012 |
| 20120211342 | Method of fabricating a keypad structure having an engraved pattern, keypad structure, and keypad semi-structure - A method of fabricating a keypad structure having an engraved pattern, in which a keycap layer including a hard coating as a top layer is provided. The keycap layer is punched to form at least a keycap component utilized to assembly a keypad semi-product. The keypad semi-product is kept in a storage place. A pattern is provided. After a demand of the pattern is confirmed, the keypad semi-product is fetched and the hard coating is partially removed to form the confirmed pattern to complete a keypad structure. A keypad structure and a keypad semi-structure are also provided. | 08-23-2012 |
| 20120217145 | CAPACITIVE TOUCH SENSITIVE HOUSING AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - A capacitive touch sensitive housing comprises: a housing wall; an array of capacitive touch sensor pads formed on the housing wall; a plurality of conductive bonding pads formed on the housing wall; and a plurality of conductive lines formed on the housing wall. Each conductive line extends from a respective one of the touch sensor pads to a respective one of the bonding pads and cooperates with the respective one of the capacitive touch sensor pads and the respective one of the bonding pads to define a touch sensor unit having a layered structure including an active metal layer and an electroless deposited metal layer. The active metal layer contains an active metal capable of initiating electroless deposition. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120222946 | Key Module, Keyboard and Electric Device - A key module, keyboard and electric device are provided in this invention. The key module includes a metal substrate, a circuit board stacked on the metal substrate, a light-emitted element installed on the circuit board, and a film flat disposed on the circuit board and covering the light-emitted element. The circuit board is provided with a plurality of apertures capable of exposing the metal substrate beneath. The film is with a light-pervious portion and a plurality of penetrating holes. The light-pervious portion is installed on the film to align with the light-emitted element. The penetrating holes are arranged on the film to surround the light-pervious portion and to align with the apertures one on one. | 09-06-2012 |
| 20120228105 | KEYSWITCH CONTROLLER - A keyswitch controller includes a housing, a circuit board, a keyswitch module, and a force feedback module. The housing includes a keyswitch hole. The circuit board is disposed in the housing and includes a switch. The keyswitch module disposed on the circuit board and passing out of the keyswitch hole is for turning on the switch by being pressed so as to generate a pressing signal. The force feedback module is coupled to the keyswitch module for vibrating according to the pressing signal. | 09-13-2012 |
| 20120228106 | INPUT DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING INPUT DEVICE - A method of manufacturing an input device includes a step of bonding a translucent first optical adhesive layer to one surface of a first transparent base so that a part of first lead electrodes is exposed to the outside; a step of disposing a FPC so that a predetermined gap is formed between the FPC and the first optical adhesive layer in plan view, and electrically connecting the FPC to the first lead electrodes exposed to one surface of the first transparent base; a step of bonding a surface member, which forms an input surface, to the first transparent base with the first optical adhesive layer interposed therebetween; and a step of sealing the exposed lead electrodes by injecting a resin into a space between the first transparent base and the surface member facing each other. | 09-13-2012 |
| 20120241297 | System and Method for Keypad Light Guide Optical Features and Coatings - Systems and methods are provided for a keypad assembly with optical features and coatings. In one exemplary embodiment, the keypad assembly for a portable electronic device includes a keypad including a plurality of keys and a light guide for transmitting light from at least one light source. The light guide includes at least one light source feature and at least one light guide feature, and the at least one light guide feature and the at least one light source feature have applied thereto a highly-reflective coating. | 09-27-2012 |
| 20120241298 | APPARATUS, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD, FOR APPLYING A FINISH TO A KEYPAD - A keypad assembly, and an associated method, is constructed in a manner to permit application of a finish, such as a decoration or painting, to any desired portion of the keys of the assembly, including at interstitial portions between adjacent keys. The keypad assembly includes a carrier membrane upon which keys forming a keypad array and key membrane pieces are supported. The carrier membrane is wrapped about a cylindrical fixture to position all portions of the keys in orientations to permit application of the finish thereto. | 09-27-2012 |
| 20120241299 | KEY ASSEMBLY FOR AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE HAVING A CONNECTED KEYCAP - The present application provides a key assembly for use in an electronic device. The key assembly comprises a plurality of dome switches and one or more single-piece keycaps. Each keycap has a plurality of key portions separated by deforming portions. The key assembly further comprises a plurality of actuators for activating the dome switches. Each actuator has a stem portion and an enlarged rigid blocking portion. The key assembly also comprises one or more rigid blocking members disposed between the blocking portion of the actuators and the keycaps and in close proximity to the blocking portion of the actuators. The blocking members form a barrier to limit a rotational movement of the actuators away from the dome switches. | 09-27-2012 |
| 20120247935 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR A COMBINATION LIGHT PIPE AND AIR GAP SWITCH - An electrical switch device includes a housing, faceplate, and a light pipe assembly that includes a light transmissive channel, a position stop, and a cam. The device also includes an air gap switch having a movable contact assembly and a stationary contact assembly. The movable contact assembly includes a cam follower that engages the cam of the light pipe assembly. The light pipe assembly is configured to pulled outward from the outer surface of the faceplate. Movement of the light pipe assembly cause the cam follower of the movable contact assembly to move along the cam and separate the movable contact from the stationary contact, shorting the circuit. Pushing the light pipe assembly in a direction back into the faceplate causes the cam follower to move in the opposite direction along the cam and allows the movable contact to engage the stationary contact and close the circuit. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120247936 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD - An illuminated keyboard includes a main circuit board, a membrane switch circuit module and an illumination circuit board. The membrane switch circuit module includes a first connecting zone and a bus bar. Through the bus bar, the membrane switch circuit module is connected with the main circuit board. The illumination circuit board includes a second connecting zone. The second connecting zone and the first connecting zone are connected with each other. Consequently, the illumination circuit board is electrically connected with the main circuit board through the second connecting zone, the first connecting zone and the bus bar. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120255846 | DISPLAY SWITCH UNIT FOR A VEHICLE AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING THE DISPLAY SWITCH UNIT - A display switch unit is provided for a vehicle and a method for producing the display switch unit. The display switch unit has at least one transparent front plastic region and a rear plastic region. Plastic switch symbols are disposed in the transparent front plastic region of the plastic body. Sensor structures of proximity sensors are each disposed behind one of the plastic switch symbols in the rear plastic region. The material of the plastic switch symbols includes, but is not limited to light-sensitive invisible particles, which are disposed in such a manner that under irradiation, colored illuminated switch symbols are visible in the surrounding transparent front plastic region. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120255847 | KEY ASSEMBLY FOR AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE HAVING A MULTI-CHARACTER KEYCAP - A key assembly for use in an electronic device is provided. The key assembly includes a plurality of dome switches, a plurality of single-piece keycaps and plurality of actuators which activate the dome switches. Each single-piece keycap has a plurality of character-representing portions identifying a number of keyboard characters which are separated by deforming portions. Each character-representing portion is associated with a separate one of the plurality of dome switches. Each actuator has g a first side which is engaged by one of the character-representing portions of the single-piece keycap and a second side which engages the dome switch associated with that character-representing portion. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120267227 | Apparatus and Method Pertaining to a Key Assembly Having a Plinth-Receiving Key Mat - A key assembly comprises a contact-responsive switch and a keycap having a plinth extending from an underside surface thereof. A key mat disposed between the keycap and the contact-responsive switch has a recessed area formed therein. This recessed area is sized and configured to receive the keycap's plinth. If desired, an adhesive can physically adhere the keycap to the key mat. By one approach, the key assembly also comprises a substantially-planar elastic layer disposed between the keycap and the contact-responsive switch. If desired, this elastic layer and the aforementioned key mat are integrally coupled to one another. By one approach this elastic layer has at least one opening disposed therethrough. This opening (or these openings) can be disposed at least in part in common with the aforementioned recessed area of the key mat. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120273335 | Power Seat Switch to Present Simultaneous Activation - A switch actuating assembly for an automobile seat has a switch operating member moveable along a first path to operate a first switch associated with a first function and moveable along a second path to operate a second switch associated with a second function. To inhibit operation of both functions simultaneously a guide controls movement of the switch operating member. Guide members act between the switch operating member and the guide so that movement of the switch operating member along one of the paths upon movement of the switch operating member along the other of the paths from a rest position. An interlock is provided between the switch operating members of a pair of switch assemblies so that only one function of one of the switch assemblies can be operated at a time. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120285807 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD - An illuminated keyboard includes plural keys, a membrane switch circuit member and an illumination module. The illumination module is used for emitting plural light beams. When the membrane switch circuit member is triggered by depressing a key, the membrane switch circuit member issues a corresponding key signal. The membrane switch circuit member includes plural light-guiding zones. Each of the light-guiding zones is filled with the corresponding light-guiding layer, so that no vacant space is formed in the light-guiding zone. As a consequence, the light-guiding layer is structurally rigid, and the possibility of abrading the light-guiding layer is minimized. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120285808 | KEYBOARD STRUCTURE - A keyboard structure includes a frame, a button, a first circuit unit and a second circuit unit. The frame includes at least a through hole. The button is disposed at the through hole and magnetically connected with the frame. The first circuit unit includes a first electrical contact point disposed corresponding to the button. The second circuit unit includes a second electrical contact point disposed corresponding to the first electrical contact point. When the button is pressed, the button and the frame are separated, and the first electrical contact point contacts with the second electrical contact point. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120292169 | QUANTUM DOTS IN ELECTRONIC DEVICE EXTERIOR SURFACE - Applying quantum dots to surface features of an electronic device to augment or replace reflective and transmissive features. Applying quantum dots can yield more efficient illumination of those features and can permit use of diverse internal light sources to cause those features to emit any color of visible light. An electronic device, keyboard for same and method of applying features to areas of the exterior surface of an electronic device are provided. Quantum dots are applied to an area of the exterior surface that is illuminated by the device's internal light source. The quantum dots absorb incident light then emit predetermined longer wavelength light. The interior light may be a UV light, high energy light emitting diode, or back light. The quantum dots can be applied to exterior surfaces, buttons or key on electronic devices, mobile devices, and keyboards for mobile devices. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20120298496 | PRESS KEY AND KEYBOARD - A press key includes: a keycap made of metal; a base board; a circuit board disposed on the base board; an insulating film disposed on the circuit board; and an elastic member disposed between the insulating film and the keycap, the elastic member being pressed toward the circuit board when the keycap is pressed, and being resilient to return the keycap to an original position when the keycap is released. A keyboard including a plurality of the aforesaid press keys is also disclosed. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120318655 | KEYPAD ASSEMBLY FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES - A key pad assembly includes a keypad and a shading sheet. The keypad includes a board and a plurality of supporting portions formed on and protruding from the board, each supporting portion has an end surface for pressing and sidewalls surrounding and connecting to the end surface and the board. The shading plate includes a base sheet attaching to and shading the board and a plurality of shading cavities formed on the base sheet, the shading cavities surrounds and shades the corresponding supporting portions while allowing light to pass through the end surface. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20120325635 | TAMPER-RESISTANT KEYPAD FOR MOBILE DEVICE - A tamper-resistant keypad is described. The keypad includes a keycap for actuation by a user. An actuator includes a first end that is coupled to the keycap. A frame having an aperture is adapted to receive the actuator such that the second end of the actuator is captured by the frame. The actuator is prevented from being removed from the frame. | 12-27-2012 |
| 20130015046 | MECHANICAL TYPE CONTROL PANEL OF AN EXERCISE EQUIPMENTAANM CHANG; WEI-CHUNAACI Taichung CityAACO TWAAGP CHANG; WEI-CHUN Taichung City TW - A mechanical type control panel of an exercise equipment comprises a light source layer, a light-transmitting cover layer, and a film button layer, which employs the light-on button with a turned-on backlight to guide the user to press so as to reduce the possibility of pressing the wrong buttons, and also to enable the user to use the control panel to do the setting of the exercise equipment even in a dim environment. On top of that, the light-transmitting cover layer enables the light of the light emitting elements to be smoothly distributed to the buttons, so as to provide a better sense of the look of the buttons. | 01-17-2013 |
| 20130015047 | SWITCH UNITAANM Fujimoto; TakeyoshiAACI Utsunomiya-shiAACO JPAAGP Fujimoto; Takeyoshi Utsunomiya-shi JPAANM Motohashi; YasuoAACI New DelhiAACO INAAGP Motohashi; Yasuo New Delhi INAANM Hashimoto; KojiAACI Utsunomiya-shiAACO JPAAGP Hashimoto; Koji Utsunomiya-shi JP - A switch unit includes an upper case that has an operation portion attached therein; a circuit board that has a switch attached thereto that is able to switch contact points by operation of the operation portion; and a lower case that fits into the upper case such that the lower case is surrounded by the upper case, and that accommodates the circuit board between the upper case and the lower case. A draining portion is provided at a side surface of the upper case, and the draining portion is integrally formed with a sidewall forming the side surface and protrudes downward, and has a width that gradually narrows from the top to the bottom thereof. | 01-17-2013 |
| 20130020186 | TOUCH SENSING APPARATUS - A touch sensing apparatus has a plurality of unit regions, and each of the unit regions includes a first substrate, a second substrate and a spacer structure. The first substrate has a first electrode layer thereon. The second substrate is disposed opposite to the first substrate and has a second electrode thereon. The spacer structure is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. In particular, there are plural of sensing units in each of the unit regions, and sensing trigger forces of the sensing units in the unit region are not completely the same. | 01-24-2013 |
| 20130026021 | ACTUATOR MANUFACTURING METHOD, SWITCHING APPARATUS, TRANSMISSION LINE SWITCHING APPARATUS, AND TEST APPARATUS - To manufacture a switching apparatus that includes a piezoelectric actuator with increased lifespan, provided is a method for manufacturing a bimorph actuator, comprising first piezoelectric element layer formation of forming a first piezoelectric element layer on a substrate; support layer formation of forming a support layer made of an insulator on the first piezoelectric element layer; second piezoelectric element layer formation of forming a second piezoelectric element layer on the support layer; and removal of removing a portion of the substrate to form an actuator that includes the first piezoelectric element layer, the support layer, and the second piezoelectric element layer. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130026022 | KEY SWITCH APPARATUS AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE - A key switch apparatus includes a key top, a dome switch and an elastic member. The key top includes a pressing surface whose vertical and lateral lengths are different. The form of the dome switch changes with the key top being pressed. The elastic member is placed around the dome switch and adds a repulsive force against the pressing force by the key top. In addition, in the elastic member, at least a part of the two ends of the longitudinal direction of the pressing surface is missing, in the whole circumference around the dome switch. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130026023 | SWITCH MODULE SYSTEM - A switch module system includes switch modules. Each switch module has a housing, a keypad with switch domes, and an actuator for the switch domes. The housing of each switch module includes a housing chassis and a housing cover. The switch modules are attached to a substrate with contact areas of the substrate being electrically connectable through the switch domes of the keypads of the switch modules. For each switch module a respective section of the substrate is inserted into the housing chassis of the switch module and the respective section of the substrate is attached by the housing cover of the switch module to the housing chassis of the switch module. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130032459 | TELEPHONE KEYPAD BASED ON TRIPODS - An ambiguous keyboard has three to five columns and at least three rows of keycaps, each with three actuators arranged in a triangle. At least nine keycaps have a digit entry portion at either the keycap's top or bottom portion, a number digit, an actuator and a sensor. At least nine keycaps have left and right non-digit symbol entry portions. A plurality of the keycaps have at least one non-digit symbol assigned to them. Pressing the right non-digit symbol entry portion activates the sensor for the right non-digit symbol entry portion and pressing on the left non-digit symbol entry portion activates the sensor for the left non-digit symbol entry portion. | 02-07-2013 |
| 20130032460 | KEYBOARD MOUNTING APPARATUS - A mounting apparatus secures a keyboard to a base. The keyboard defines a plurality of nicks. The base comprises a supporting member and a receiving member installed on the supporting member. A plurality of resilient pieces is located on the supporting member. The receiving member defines a plurality of through holes allowing the resilient pieces to extend through. Each of the resilient pieces is elastically deformable to be over the keyboard to engage in each of the nicks. | 02-07-2013 |
| 20130032461 | FLAME-QUENCHING KEYPAD ASSEMBLY - A process analytic device includes a metallic enclosure having electronics disposed therein. The enclosure has an enclosure wall with a reference surface. A plurality of operating rods is provided. Each operating rod is configured to pass through an aperture in the enclosure wall and to cooperate with the enclosure wall to provide a flame quenching pathway. A plurality of electrical switches is provided where each electrical switch is aligned with a respective operating rod, and is mounted a controlled distance from the reference surface. Each operating rod transfers movement to a respective electrical switch through the flame quenching pathway. | 02-07-2013 |
| 20130037400 | SUBSTRATES FOR FLEXIBLE KEYBOARDS AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A keyboard that comprises a flexible film of a thickness having a first surface and a second surface spaced apart from the first surface by the thickness of the film; a plurality of shallow wells in the flexible film, each shallow well including a chamber formed into the flexible film from the first surface and corresponds to one key of the keyboard; a plurality of sensor, each sensor is configured in the chamber of one of the shallow wells; a patterned conductive layer on the flexible film; and an adhesive layer on the patterned conductive layer. | 02-14-2013 |
| 20130043115 | KEYBOARD MODULE - A keyboard module includes a key unit, a fixed unit and a cover layer. The key unit includes a plurality of key structures. The fixed unit includes a plurality of position limiting structures, and the position limiting structures are fixed to the corresponding key structures, respectively. The cover layer covers and connects to the key unit and the fixed unit. | 02-21-2013 |
| 20130062176 | HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE HAVING A USER INTERFACE WITH A USER-EXCHANGEABLE TOUCH WHEEL AND ROTARY ENCODER - A household appliance having a touch user interface that includes a touch panel with a touch area and a printed circuit board with a capacitive touch switch trace and wherein the printed circuit board is mounted to the touch panel such that the capacitive touch switch trace is aligned with the touch area. | 03-14-2013 |
| 20130062177 | REPLACEABLE KEY MODULE AND KEYBOARD WITH THE SAME - A replaceable key module for a keyboard, comprising: a keycap holder, a springy member and a keycap. The keycap holder embraces an accommodation space, a first surface having an opening, and a second surface having a hole. The springy member is located on the second surface and within the accommodation space of the keycap holder. The keycap is movably connected to the springy member through the opening of the first surface of the keycap holder and capable of moving between a released position and a depressed position. The keycap is referred to as in a released position when not depressed and in a depressed position pushing the springy member to be deformed downwardly when depressed. By means of adjusting some factors such as hardness, length, material and pressing angle of the springy member, the user may obtain the key module with the specified pressure load as desired. | 03-14-2013 |
| 20130068601 | KEYBOARD SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A keyboard apparatus is provided. The apparatus can include a rigid member comprising a plurality of keycaps and a proximity sensing member comprising a plurality of proximity sensors and a plurality of illuminators disposed proximate the rigid keycap member. The apparatus can also include a backing member comprising a switch disposed proximate the proximity sensing member. A displacement of the rigid member and the proximity sensing member can activate the switch. | 03-21-2013 |
| 20130075241 | ACCESSORY CONTROLLER FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES - Accessories such as headsets for electronic devices are provided. A headset may be provided with a button controller assembly that has user-actuated buttons and a microphone. The microphone may be formed by mounting a microphone transducer on a printed circuit board. A housing may be mounted over the transducer to form a sealed cavity for the transducer. Circuitry may be mounted on portions of the printed circuit board that extend beyond the edges of the microphone housing. The button controller assembly may have dome switches. The dome switches may have a housing that encloses dome switch components and that forms a structural internal part for the button controller. The dome switch housing structure may have tabs or other engagement features that mate with corresponding engagement features in a button member. The button member may be pressed by a user to actuate a desired dome switch. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130087441 | TOUCH PANEL AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - Disclosed herein are a touch panel and a method of manufacturing the same. The touch panel | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130087442 | Operating Device with a Plurality of Actuating Elements Arranged Next to and/or Below one Another - An operating device with a number of actuating elements, such as switches and/or pushbuttons, arranged next to one another and/or one below the other is provided. The actuating elements are delimited, at least in part, by at least one frame element. The frame element is provided, at least in some regions, with surface sections that are shaped such that they can be detected haptically. One actuating element is respectively assigned to at least a part of the haptically detectable surface sections. | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130098743 | KEYBOARD MODULE AND METHOD FOR FABRICATING THE SAME - A keyboard module includes a base, a plurality of retaining members and a plurality of keycaps. Each of the retaining members includes a bottom portion, a bending portion and an upper portion. The bottom portion is disposed on the base. The bending portion is connected to the bottom portion and extends along a direction away from the bottom portion. The upper portion is connected to the bending portion. The keycaps are respectively disposed on one of the upper portions corresponding thereto. After the keycaps are pressed by an external force, the upper portions are abutted by the keycaps, and the bending portion is deformed. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130105290 | KEYBOARDS AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING SAME | 05-02-2013 |
| 20130105291 | TOUCH PANEL | 05-02-2013 |
| 20130105292 | MODULAR KEYBOARD ASSEMBLY | 05-02-2013 |
| 20130118875 | Touch Panel - The Present Disclosure provides a touch panel, which consists of a main panel and a light-emitting touch module mounted under the main panel. The light-emitting touch module consists of a first circuit board provided with a plethora of touch sensors and light-emitting devices under the main panel. These touch sensors are used to induce the approaching signals of the operator, and transmit the induction signals to a touch control circuit for controlling the light-emitting status of the corresponding light-emitting device. The light-emitting touch module also consists of a second circuit board, electrically connected with the first circuit board. The touch control circuit is provided on the second circuit board, spatially separated from the first circuit board by a certain distance, so that the electromagnetic interferences of the touch control circuit on the touch sensors may be reduced. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130118876 | BREATHABLE SEALED DOME SWITCH ASSEMBLY - A sealed dome switch assembly is provided to allow air to flow between the interior and the exterior of the dome switch during the collapse and recovery of the resilient dome shell. The sealed dome switch assembly comprises at least one vent leading between the interior space and the exterior space of the sealed dome switch, wherein the vent is covered by a membrane that is permeable to air and resilient to liquid (e.g. water) and small particles (e.g. dirt). A vent may also be used to network the interiors of a plurality of sealed dome switches to at least one exterior entranceway that is covered by the membrane. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130118877 | MULTIPLE FUNCTION INLINE CONTROLLER WITH BUTTONS EXTENDING ALONG DIFFERENT AXES - Methods, apparatus and systems which provide buttons oriented at angles relative to each other as a part of a multiple function switch are described. In one embodiment, the multiple function switch is part of an inline controller that is suitable for use to control features or functions of a portable electronic device. A multiple function switch may be incorporated in a cable associated with an earpiece arranged to be interfaced with a portable electronic device. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130118878 | Input Assembly For A Waterproof Keyboard - An input assembly for a human interface device such as a keyboard comprises a first membrane ( | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130126324 | KEYBOARD WITH Z-SHAPED SUPPORT MEMBER - A keyboard includes a base and a plurality of keyswitches. The keyswitches are disposed on the base. One of the keyswitches includes a key cap, a first support member and a second support member. The first support member is Z-shaped and has a first sliding portion and a first rotating portion, wherein the first sliding portion is selectively disposed on one of the base and the key cap and the first rotating portion is selectively disposed on the other one of the base and the key cap. The second support member is Z-shaped and has a second sliding portion and a second rotating portion, wherein the second sliding portion is selectively disposed on one of the base and the key cap and the second rotating portion is selectively disposed on the other one of the base and the key cap. | 05-23-2013 |
| 20130126325 | PHYSICAL FORCE CAPACITIVE TOUCH SENSORS - A physical force capacitive touch sensor comprises a capacitive sensor element on a substrate, a physically deformable electrically insulating spacer over the capacitive sensor element and a conductive deformable plane over the physically deformable electrically insulating spacer. A protective deformable fascia may be placed over the conductive deformable plane to provide an environmental seal for physical and weather protection, but is not essential to operation of the capacitive touch sensor. Back lighting is accomplished through a light transmissive layer(s) in the capacitive touch sensor. When the conductive deformable plane is displaced toward the capacitive touch sensor element, the capacitance value of the capacitive touch sensor element changes and that change may be detected and used as an actuation signal. | 05-23-2013 |
| 20130134021 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD - A luminous keyboard includes a light-emitting element, a membrane circuit member, a key base plate, and plural keys. The membrane circuit member includes an upper wiring board and a lower wiring board. A first circuit pattern is formed on the lower wiring board. A second circuit pattern is formed on the upper wiring board. The first circuit pattern and the second circuit pattern collectively define plural membrane switches. The lower wiring board further includes plural film layers for increasing the light-guiding efficacy of the lower wiring board. Moreover, the plural keys are connected to the key base plate. The key base plate is arranged between the plural keys and the membrane circuit member. | 05-30-2013 |
| 20130134022 | BUTTON STRUCTURE AND KEYBOARD STRUCTURE USING THE SAME - A button structure includes a key cap, a first supporting member, a second supporting member, an elastomer and a base plate. The first supporting member has a first bending portion and a second bending portion. The second supporting member is cross-connected with the first supporting member. The second supporting member has a third bending portion and a fourth bending portion. The third bending portion passes through the first bending portion and abuts an inside of the first bending portion. The second bending portion passes through the fourth bending portion and abuts an inside of the fourth bending portion. The elastomer below the key cap supports the key cap. The base plate is for supporting the first supporting member, the second supporting member and the elastomer. The key cap is able to move up and down through operations of the first supporting member, the second supporting member and the elastomer. | 05-30-2013 |
| 20130134023 | THIN FILM SWITCH AND PRESS KEY/KEYBOARD USING THE SAME - A thin film switch, comprising: a first thin film, having a first conductor unit mounted thereon; and a second thin film, having a second conductor unit mounted on a surface thereof facing toward the first thin film; wherein, the first conductor unit is composed of at least one first electric conductor; and the second conductor is composed of a plurality of second electric conductors to be arranged in a manner that one of the plural second electric conductors is disposed at a first position defined on the second thin film while designating another one of the plural second electric conductors to be disposed at a second position of the second thin film. Operationally, the thin film switch is capable of outputting different signals in response to different forces exerted thereon for triggering different electric conductors mounted on different positions in the thin film switch. | 05-30-2013 |
| 20130134024 | BUTTON MECHANISM AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE THEREOF - A button mechanism includes a casing. A lock hole and an engaging portion are formed and disposed on a bottom of the casing, and a plurality of open slots is formed on a lateral wall of the casing. The button mechanism further includes a plurality of buttons respectively disposed on the corresponding open slots, a fixing component, and a supporting component. An end of the supporting component is engaged with the engaging portion. The supporting component includes a first part whereon a piercing hole is formed. The fixing component pierces through the piercing hole and the lock hole to fix the first part on the bottom of the casing. The supporting component further includes a second part connected to the first part and contacting against the plurality of first buttons for constraining movements of the plurality of buttons relative to the casing. | 05-30-2013 |
| 20130140163 | Assembling a Keypad to a Mobile Device - A mobile device has a front frame with a key opening, a first forward facing surface adjacent the key opening and a second forward facing surface adjacent the key opening. The mobile device includes a keypad with keys coupled to a flexible backing The keypad is insertable from behind the front frame of the mobile device to position the keys into openings in the front frame and laterally expandable to position the keys on opposing lateral sides of the keypad in front of forward facing surfaces of the front frame. | 06-06-2013 |
| 20130140164 | THIN FILM SWITCH AND PRESS KEY/KEYBOARD USING THE SAME - A thin film switch is disclosed, which comprises: a first thin film, having a first conductor unit mounted on a surface thereof; and a second thin film, having a second conductor unit mounted on a surface thereof facing toward the first thin film; wherein, the first conductor unit is composed of a plurality of first electric conductors, and the second conductor is composed of at least one second electric conductor; and the first conductor unit and the second conductor unit are arranged at positions corresponding to each other while being spaced from each other by a specific interval; the at least one second electric conductor is enabled to engage with one of the plural first electric conductors for constructing an electrical conduction when the thin film switch is subjected to a load for forcing the first and the second thin films to move toward each other. | 06-06-2013 |
| 20130140165 | INPUT DEVICE AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - An input device and a manufacturing method of the input device are provided. The input device includes a circuit board and a plurality of mechanical switches. The circuit board has a first surface, a second surface and a plurality of conductive sheets. A plurality of holes are formed on the circuit board and the conductive sheets are disposed at one side of the first surface in pairs around the hole, and the conductive sheets have a coupling section bent toward the first surface along the direction of the second surface. The mechanical switches are detachable from the circuit board and include a plunger and a plurality of pins. Each of the plungers has a positioning column embedded in the hole. One end of the pin is connected to the plunger, and the other end of the pin is attached to the coupling section of the conductive sheets. | 06-06-2013 |
| 20130140166 | Handle Switch Device - A handle switch device capable of ensuring electrical insulation between switches with a simple structure and capable of being easily mounted to a handle of a vehicle. An inner casing of the handle switch device is disposed on an outer periphery of the handle pipe, and front and rear casings are disposed on an outer periphery of the inner casing to hold the inner casing therebetween. The inner casing is formed with partition ribs each of which partitions between corresponding ones of microswitches disposed on the inner casing. Passages are defined by the partition ribs to correspond to respective ones of the microswitches, and are each configured to achieve a drain passage function and achieve a wiring guide function for corresponding ones of electric cords connected to the microswitches. | 06-06-2013 |
| 20130146434 | KEY SWITCH DEVICE - One aspect provides a key switch device including: a base plate; a sheet laminated on the base plate; a key top disposed above the sheet; and an elastic dome that is disposed between the sheet and the key top and is configured to press the sheet in response to the key top being pressed down. Other aspects are described and claimed. | 06-13-2013 |
| 20130153386 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH KEYPAD ASSEMBLY - A keypad assembly is attached to a housing of an electronic device. The housing defines a plurality of key holes, the keypad assembly including an elastic sheet and a number of key caps. The elastic sheet includes a number of key bodies and a number of contacts formed at opposite surfaces thereof. The elastic sheet is positioned at a first side of the housing, and the key bodies extend through the key holes. The key caps are positioned at a second side of the housing, and are mounted on the key bodies. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130153387 | BUTTON LIGHTING STRUCTURE AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE - Provided is a button lighting structure that includes: a plurality of button members ( | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130161170 | KEYBOARD DEVICE WITH LUMINOUS KEY - A keyboard device includes at least one luminous key, at least one light-emitting element, a membrane switch circuit member, an opaque seal structure, and a transparent seal structure. The luminous key has a light-transmissible zone. The light-emitting element is electrically connected with the membrane switch circuit member, and disposed under the light-transmissible zone. A top surface of the light-emitting element is encapsulated by the transparent seal structure. The transparent seal structure is partially surrounded by the opaque seal structure. Consequently, the light beam from the light-emitting element is transmissible through the transparent seal structure, and directed to the light-transmissible zone. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130161171 | Keyboard Mechanisms for Electronic Devices - An input device configured to communicate with a computing device includes at least one keycap, a support mechanism operably connected to the keycap and configured to move the keycap from a first position to a second position, and a feature plate operably connected to the support mechanism. The support mechanism includes a first support and a second support. The first support and the second support are each connected to the at least one keycap and the feature plate. The first support and second support pivot to allow vertical movement of the keycap but lateral movement of the first support and second support are restricted. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130161172 | Keyboard with Position Sensing Mechanism - An input device configured to communicate with a computing device includes at least one keycap, a support mechanism operably connected to the keycap and configured to move the keycap from a first position to a second position, a feature plate operably connected to the support mechanism, and a sensing member. The sensing member is configured to detect at least one of a change of position of the at least one keycap, a speed of the at least one keycap, an amount of force applied to the at least one keycap, or a location of a finger. The sensing member may be a capacitive sensor. In some embodiments, the input device may not include the support mechanism and the sensing member may be configured to detect the location of a finger regardless whether or not the keycap moves. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130161173 | BUTTON ASSEMBLY WITH ONE ELASTIC MEMBER FOR MULTIPLE BUTTONS - A button assembly includes several buttons, a circuit board, and an elastic member sandwiched between the buttons and the circuit board. The circuit board includes several switches, each of which corresponds to one of the buttons and is mounted under the corresponding button. The elastic member includes a main body and several arms projecting from the main body, each of which is securely connected to a bottom of one of the buttons, and is used to support the one of the buttons. The elastic member is configured to apply a pushing force to the buttons, thereby enabling the buttons to return their original positions. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130168214 | THIN PROFILE KEYBOARD - A thin profile keyboard is provided with a monoblock having a plurality of rectangular openings arranged in rows, and a plurality of bottom grooves; a plurality of keys each including a rectangular frame movably disposed in the opening of the monoblock, and two lever arms extending from both ends of a forward edge of frame, each lever arm filled in the bottom groove; a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed below the keys and the monoblock; and a base disposed below the PCB. The base, the monoblock, and the PCB are assembled. | 07-04-2013 |
| 20130175150 | LAPTOP KEYBOARD STRUCTURE - The present invention discloses a laptop keyboard structure, comprising a base board, a FPC board functioning as keys, silica gel keys, scissor-switches and keycaps, wherein the silica gel keys are directly attached to the base board, the keycaps are connected to the base board via the scissor-switches, and beneath the base board is disposed with the FPC board, which is arranged with apertures for computer assembly. As the FPC board provided in the invention is disposed beneath the base board, structure bores are not required to be arranged on the FPC board to cooperate with the key slots, so that fewer structure bores are needed and the fabrication of the FPC board is further simplified. In accordance with the present invention. | 07-11-2013 |
| 20130192967 | STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLY WITH USER CONTROLS - A steering wheel assembly comprises a plurality of control elements disposed on a user-accessible surface of the steering wheel assembly. Each of the plurality of control elements has a plurality of user-selectable operational states and is electrically coupled to a corresponding branch of an electric circuit. The electric circuit defines an output node and is configured to produce a single output signal at the output node. Each of the plurality of control elements is configured for affecting the single output signal based on an active one of the plurality of user-selectable operational states of the respective one of the plurality of control elements. The single output signal is indicative of the active ones of the plurality of user-selectable operational states for each of the plurality of control elements. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130199911 | MEMBRANE SWITCH UNIT AND KEYBOARD DEVICE INCLUDING THE MEMBRANE SWITCH UNIT - In a membrane switch unit having an illumination function that is formed of a pair of sheets and has a plurality of light sources arranged therein, a plurality of fixed contacts having wiring portions are provided on a lower membrane sheet, a plurality of movable contacts formed independently of one another are formed on an upper membrane sheet, and a plurality of white LEDs (light sources) are provided on the upper membrane sheet where there is no wiring among the movable contacts. As a result, wiring paths can be freely provided and, hence, the plurality of the white LEDs connected in parallel with a power supply can be easily housed. Since the plurality of the white LEDs are connected in parallel with the power supply, the plurality of the white LEDs can be lit without using a voltage step-up circuit or a dedicated lighting power supply. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20130206562 | KEYBOARD WITH WATER-DRAINING FUNCTION - A keyboard with a water-draining function is provided. The keyboard includes a base, an upper cover, and a flexible plate. The base has at least one drainage hole. The upper cover has at least one upper cover opening corresponding to the at least one drainage hole. The flexible plate has at least one flexible plate opening corresponding to the at least one drainage hole. The flexible plate is arranged between the upper cover and the base. The flexible plate is contacted with the upper cover and the base, so that the at least one drainage hole is connected with the corresponding upper cover opening. The liquid splashed on the keyboard may flow through the upper cover opening, the flexible plate opening and the drainage hole, and then the liquid is exhausted out of the keyboard. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130206563 | PRESSING-TYPE INPUT DEVICE - A switching substrate on which switching portions are mounted is attached at an angle to a case. The length in the pressing direction of a first push button of a push button unit is larger than the length in the pressing direction of a second push button. A first contact portion about which the push button unit rotates when the first push button is pressed and a second contact portion about which the push button unit rotates when the second push button is pressed are at substantially the same height from the surface of the switching substrate. Therefore, the rotation angle when a first operating surface is pressed can be made equal to the rotation angle when a second operating surface is pressed. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130206564 | IN-VEHICLE LEVER SWITCH DEVICE - In a lever switch device, a holder is assembled in and fixed to a cylindrical lever body formed by combining halved lever bodies and the holder supports two rotating knobs so as to allow the rotating knobs to rotate. Further, a circuit board is mounted on the holder, and both main surfaces of the circuit board face the rotating knobs, respectively. The rotating knob is exposed to the outside at the end of the cylindrical lever body in the axial direction, and the rotating knob is exposed to the outside through window portions formed at the cylindrical lever body. Sliders are mounted on the rotating knobs, respectively, one slider can come into contact with and be separated from contact patterns formed on the main surface, and the other slider can come into contact with and be separated from contact patterns formed on the main surface. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130220788 | ELECTRICAL SWITCH - An electrical switch has a switch body, actuators, and switch contacts, and at least one moving contact member having first and second ends. Elongate cam sliders extend side-by-side in the switch body, between the actuators and the moving contact member, for sliding lengthwise by the actuators to cause pivotal movement of the moving contact member about the first end such that the second end is moved into and out of contact with at least one of the switch contacts. The first and second ends of the moving contact member lie in a plane extending parallel to the longitudinal extent of the cam sliders, or extend parallel to the length of the cam sliders. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130220789 | BUTTON ASSEMBLY WITH DRIVE ASSEMBLY - A process is provided for characterizing a tactile response of a first mechanical actuator (e.g., button) based on a back off distance. The first mechanical actuator may include a plunger, a dome-shaped flexible membrane, and an electrical contact, all aligned with each other so that a contact signal is generated when the flexible membrane touches the contact. The plunger can be moved a first distance towards the contact until the contact signal is generated at a contact point. Then the plunger can be backed off a second distance from the contact point. This second distance may be called the “back off distance”. The particular feel of the first mechanical actuator can then be correlated to a particular back off distance. This process can be repeated a number of times to classify a number of different “feels” for the first mechanical actuator based on a number of different back off distances. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130228433 | Force Concentrator - Force concentrator techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a pressure sensitive key includes a sensor substrate having a plurality of conductors, a flexible contact layer spaced apart from the sensor substrate and configured to flex to contact the sensor substrate to initiate an input; and a force concentrator layer disposed proximal to the flexible contact layer on a side opposite the sensor substrate. The force concentrator layer has a pad disposed thereon that is configured to cause pressure applied to the force concentrator layer to be channeled through the pad to cause the flexible contact layer to contact the sensor substrate to initiate the input. | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130228434 | Input Device Securing Techniques - Input device adhesive techniques are described. A pressure sensitive key includes a sensor substrate having one or more conductors, a spacer layer, and a flexible contact layer. The spacer layer is disposed proximal to the sensor substrate and has at least one opening. The flexible contact layer is spaced apart from the sensor substrate by the spacer layer and configured to flex through the opening in response to an applied pressure to initiate an input. The flexible contact layer is secured to the spacer layer such that at first edge, the flexible contact layer is secured to the spacer layer at an approximate midpoint of the first edge and is not secured to the spacer along another portion of the first edge and at a second edge, the flexible contact layer is not secured to the spacer layer along an approximate midpoint of the second edge. | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130228435 | Sensor Stack Venting - Sensor stack venting techniques are described. In one or more implementations, one or more vent structures are formed within layers of a pressure sensitive sensor stack for a device. Vent structures including channels, holes, slots, and so forth are designed to provide pathways for gas released by feature elements to escape. The pathways may be arranged to convey outgases through the layers to designated escape points in a controlled manner that prevents deformities typically caused by trapped gases. The escape points in some layers enable at least some other layers to be edge-sealed. Pathways may then be formed to convey gas from the edge-sealed layer(s) to an edge vented layer(s) having one or more escape points, such that feature elements in the edge-sealed layer(s) remain protected from contaminants. | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130228436 | KEYBOARD - A keyboard includes a keyboard shell, a supporting panel, a plurality of keycaps, a plurality of keycap supports between the supporting panel and the corresponding keycaps; a plurality of elastomers through the corresponding elastomer holes; and a key signal pad substrate with a plurality of key signal pad corresponding to the elastomer hole; the elastomer includes a top part, an elastic supporting part, the elastomer is arranged on the key signal pad substrate; and a conductive layer arranged on the bottom surface of the pressure enhancing protrusion; the pressure enhancing protrusions are corresponding to the key signal pad, respectively, when pressure is supplied on the keycap, the corresponding pressure enhancing protrusion is pressed and make the conductive layer electrically connect to the key signal pad, the pressure enhancing protrusion is supported on the key signal pad substrate by the elastic supporting part. | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130228437 | KEYBOARD - An exemplary keyboard includes a keyboard shell; a supporting panel arranged to the keyboard shell and having a plurality of elastomer holes therein; a plurality of keycaps arranged on the lastomer holes; a plurality of keycap supports between the supporting panel and the corresponding keycaps; a plurality of elastomers being exposed out of the supporting panel; and an FPC sheet arranged under the supporting panel, and a key signal pads substrate arranged under the FPC sheet; the FPC sheet comprises a key signal pads layer with a plurality of upper key signal pads corresponding to the plurality of elastomers holes and a insulative layer with a plurality of connecting holes under the key signal pads layer; lower key signal pads corresponding to the upper key signal pads are arranged on the key signal pads substrate, the lower key signal pads opposite to the upper key signal pads. | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130228438 | COMMON ACTUATOR SYSTEM OF MULTI SWITCHES FOR SWITCHGEAR - A common actuator system of multi switches for a switchgear is capable of selectively opening or closing the plurality of switches using a single common actuator motor. The actuator system includes a single actuator motor providing a rotational force for commonly opening or closing the plurality of switches and having an output shaft, a plurality of link members provided to correspond to the plurality of switches, respectively, to transfer the rotational force of the actuator motor to the plurality of switches, a selective power transfer mechanism to selectively connect one of the plurality of link members to the actuator motor, and a rotational-linear force conversion mechanism to convert the rotational force of one of the plurality of link members into a linear force for opening or closing a corresponding switch and providing the linear force to the switch. | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130233686 | KEYS WITH DOUBLE-DIVING-BOARD SPRING MECHANISMS - Keys may be formed for keyboards. The keyboards may be attached to electronic devices such as computers or may be formed within a portable computer or other electronic equipment. A keyboard may be provided with a planar housing member such as a top plate. The top plate may have openings through which key caps protrude. Each key cap may be attached to a respective spring mechanism. The spring mechanism for each key may have first and second diving-board structures that flex about respective parallel flex axes. A dome switch may be mounted under each spring mechanism. The dome switch is compressed when the key cap is pressed and the first diving-board structure moves towards the dome switch. The top plate may have edge portions surrounding each key opening that form upstop structures that prevent the key caps and spring mechanisms from tilting when the dome switch is compressed. | 09-12-2013 |
| 20130233687 | MULTI-LAYER INTEGRAL KEYPAD - A multi-layer integral keypad is provided with a plurality of key tops each having a plastic layer coupled to a display layer. A key top support layer integrally couples a plurality of the key tops to one another. A method for producing a multi-layer integral keypad is also provided. | 09-12-2013 |
| 20130233688 | BACKLIGHTING APPARATUS FOR A KEYPAD ASSEMBLY - A keypad assembly including a dome configured to operatively engage a switch sensor; a dome overlay guide operatively coupled by to the dome; a key corresponding to the dome and configured to operatively engage the dome; and a light emitting source, configured to emit light. The dome overlay guide is configured to receive the light emitted by the light emitting source and direct the received light toward the keys. | 09-12-2013 |
| 20130233689 | SEAMLESS FACEPLATE ASSEMBLY FOR KEYPAD DEVICE - An assembly ( | 09-12-2013 |
| 20130240339 | INPUT DEVICE AND MOBILE TERMINAL - In order to improve operability when operating a target key, an input device has a plurality of keys arranged in a column direction. Each of the plurality of keys comprises a key indication mark ( | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130248338 | ELECTRIC SWITCHING DEVICE AND RELATED ELECTRIC APPARATUS - An electric switching device for an electric circuit, including at least one electric phase having at least one circuit breaking unit associated with a disconnector unit. The circuit breaker unit including a circuit breaker movable contact configured to be actuated between a closed position and an open position with respect to a corresponding circuit breaker fixed contact. The disconnector unit includes at least one disconnector movable contact configured to be actuated between a connection position and a disconnection position with respect to a corresponding disconnector fixed contact. A casing that includes an insulating shell coupled to a metal shell. The casing houses at least the circuit breaker unit and the associated disconnector unit of said at least one electric phase. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130256106 | BUTTON MECHANISM AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE USING THE SAME - A button mechanism is arranged in an electronic device for actuating a switch. The button mechanism includes a support fixed in the electronic device, a button, an elastic connection member, and a resisting member. The button includes a button body that can be pressed, and an actuation portion protruding from the button body, the actuation portion being located above the switch. The elastic connection member connects the button body to the support, and the elastic connection member is elastically deformed when the button body is deformed. The resisting member is arranged between the button body and the switch, for preventing the button body from moving down too far, thereby limiting a traveling range of the button body. | 10-03-2013 |
| 20130256107 | BUTTON MECHANISM AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE USING THE SAME - A button mechanism is arranged in an electronic device for actuating a switch. The button mechanism includes a support fixed in the electronic device, a button for receiving an external press to move towards and actuate the switch, and an elastic connection member connecting the button to the support, wherein the elastic connection member is elastically deformed when the button is depressed. The button mechanism further includes a resisting member. The resisting member includes a first end fixed in the button, and a second, suspended end for resisting against a stopping member fixed in the electronic device, wherein when the button moves a predetermined distance towards the switch, the second end resists against the stopping member to prevent the button from further moving towards the switch. | 10-03-2013 |
| 20130256108 | Legend Highlighting - A method for manufacturing keycap includes applying a first coating layer on a surface of a keycap layer, applying a second coating layer on top of the first coating layer, etching at least a portion of the first coating layer to a first depth to form a first etched area, and etching at least a portion of the first etched area to a second depth to form a second etched area. | 10-03-2013 |
| 20130256109 | CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED DC GRIDS - Switching and switchover devices for DC networks make it possible to realize, particularly in the event of faults, rapid and reliable switching processes in combination with good overvoltage damping and low energy losses during normal operation. The switching devices furthermore have short turn-off times and require no cooling since they have no on-state power losses during normal operation. | 10-03-2013 |
| 20130264182 | SLIM KEY STRUCTURE AND SLIM KEYBOARD HAVING THE SAME - A slim key structure includes a lower case having at least one positioning slot, a flexible membrane disposed on the lower case, an upper case dispose on the flexible membrane, a keycap and an elastic piece. The flexible membrane has a post opening corresponding to the positioning slot. The upper case has at least one hollow guiding cylinder and a central passage. The guiding cylinder is protruded upwardly and downwardly from the upper case, and the downward protruding portion of the guiding cylinder is received in the positioning slot. The keycap has at least one guiding post and a pushing stem protruding downwardly from a bottom surface thereof The guiding post is reciprocably received in the guiding cylinder. The elastic piece is disposed between the keycap and the flexible membrane in the central passage depressable by the pushing stem against the flexible membrane. | 10-10-2013 |
| 20130270090 | KEYBOARD - A keyboard includes a keyboard shell, a supporting panel, a plurality of keycaps, a keycap support opposite to the supporting panel, a plurality of elastomer arranged on FPC, a light emitting substrate disposed at a lower side of the supporting panel, a plurality of light emitting members disposed on the light emitting substrate, a FPC sheet, and a flexible support portion of the elastomer having a top part and extending from the top part in an arch shape and a pressure protrusion of the elastomer formed on a bottom surface of the top part, and a conductive layer formed on the surface of the pressure protrusion; the pressure protrusion is opposite to the key signal pad on FPC, the pressure protrusion contacts the key signal pad and is supported by the flexible support portion; the supporting panel has a plurality of receiving holes arranged through a thickness direction. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130270091 | KEYBOARD - An exemplary keyboard includes a keyboard shell; a supporting panel arranged to the keyboard shell and having a plurality of elastomer holes therein; a plurality of keycaps arranged on the corresponding elastomer holes; a plurality of keycap supports between the supporting panel and the corresponding keycaps; a plurality of elastomers through the corresponding elastomer holes and being exposed out of the supporting panel; light emitting members arranged on the light emitting substrate and corresponding to each of the keycap; and an FPC sheet arranged between the light emitting substrate and the supporting panel, the FPC sheet comprising a key signal pads corresponding to each of the elastomer holes; light emitting substrate arranged under the supporting panel; the cross-section area of the elastomer hole is greater than that of the elastomer. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130292236 | CONTROLLER FOR OPERATING A RECLINER - A controller for operating an electric drive of a reclining chair or couch has a housing mountable on the chair or couch, a pair of control switches on the housing and connectable to the drive motor to operate same, a locking or cutoff switch on the housing, and a supply cable extending from the housing to an electricity source capable of powering and forming with the electric drive. The control switches, and cutoff switch form a circuit interruptible by the cutoff switch so that in the off position of the cutoff switch the control switches are unable to operate the drive and in the on position of the cutoff switch the control switches can operate the drive. A cover shiftable on the cover between a first position setting the cutoff switch in the on position and a second position can set the cutoff switch in the off position. | 11-07-2013 |
| 20130292237 | SWITCH AND INPUT DEVICE - Provided are a switch and input device that can give a user a switch pressing sensation and push-back sensation and that are highly quiet. This switch | 11-07-2013 |
| 20130299326 | WIRELESS KEYBOARD WITH A SPECIALLY DESIGNED POWER SWITCH STRUCTURE - A wireless keyboard includes a keyboard body carrying a set of operating key switches, an elongated spacer block hinged to the front side of the keyboard body and turnable between a first position where the elongated spacer block is kept at the front side of the keyboard body in a substantially flush manner and a second position where the elongated spacer block is attached to a bottom side of the keyboard body for supporting the keyboard body on a flat surface in a tilted condition, a circuit module consisting of a circuit board, a battery power supply, a wireless module and a solenoid switch, and a magnetic member for acting with the solenoid switch to switch off the battery power supply when the elongated spacer block is in the first position or to switch on the battery power supply when the elongated spacer block is in the second position. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130299327 | TOUCH DEVICE - A touch device includes a touch panel, a circuit board, and at least one capacitive sensing element located between the touch panel and the circuit board. The circuit board includes a top layer and a bottom layer, each capacitive sensing element is mounted to the top layer, the bottom layer defines at least one first area, each first area corresponds to each capacitive sensing element, and each first area is not coated with copper. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130306455 | MULTICOLOR LIGHT-EMITTING COMPUTER INPUT DEVICE - A multicolor light-emitting computer input device includes a key switch module including a bottom plat having through holes, press members spaced above the bottom plate, and linking members respectively coupled between the bottom plate and the press members for moving the press members up and down, a circuit board arranged above the bottom plate and carrying light-emitting diodes in the through holes of the bottom plate and a light guide cap of a selected color capped around each light-emitting diode, elastomer members arranged the top side of the circuit board, and a light guide panel arranged at the bottom side of the bottom plate for receiving light from the light-emitting diodes and the respective light guide caps and guiding the received light toward the press members. | 11-21-2013 |
| 20130306456 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE - An electronic device includes a housing, a number of keys and a keypad fixed on an inner surface of the housing under the keys. The PCB includes a plurality of edges, a plurality of cutouts having one is defined in a first edge of the edges, and a plurality of bolt holes having one is arranged adjacent to a second edge of the edges. A bolt extends through the bolt hole and threaded engaged with the housing. The housing further includes a plurality of holders arranged on the inner surface of the housing, each holder includes a first retaining plate and a second retaining plate, the first retaining plate is accommodated in the corresponding cutout and the second retaining plate resists against the keypad to prevent the keypad from disengaging from the holder. | 11-21-2013 |
| 20130313093 | KEYBOARD DEVICE - A keyboard device including a bottom plate, a keyboard film and button structures is provided. The keyboard film is disposed on the bottom plate and has a first electrode film, an insulating layer, and a second electrode film. The first electrode film has keypad circuits. The second electrode film is disposed opposite to the first electrode film and has light sources. The insulating layer is disposed between the first electrode film and the second electrode film. The button structures are disposed on the keyboard film. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130313094 | WATERPROOF KEYBOARD - A waterproof keyboard includes a lower housing, a circuit membrane disposed on the lower housing, a pressure plate disposed on the circuit membrane, an elastomer member, an upper housing disposed on the elastomer member and a plurality of key caps disposed on the upper housing. The pressure plate has a main body formed with a plurality of openings and ridges. The elastomer member has a plurality of switch domes disposed in the openings correspondingly, a base layer disposed on the main body, and a plurality of raised portions disposed on the ridges respectively. The key caps abut to the switch domes respectively. The raised portions of the elastomer member are fixed to the bottom surface of the upper housing, while the ridges of the pressure plate presses tightly to the underside of the raised portions. The pressure plate is constructed to evenly support the elastomer member. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130313095 | KEY STRUCTURE - A resilient key structure includes an insulating layer, a pressing unit, an upper cover, a first conducting layer, a second conducting layer, and a spacer. The pressing unit is mounted on the insulating layer and includes a plurality of pressing members. Each pressing member partially defines a sealed receiving space filled with a fluid. The upper cover is mounted on the pressing unit and defines a plurality of openings penetrated by the pressing members. The first conducting layer is mounted to the underside of the insulating layer. The underside of the first conducting layer has a plurality of first conducting portions. The second conducting layer is arranged underneath the first conducting layer and has a plurality of second conducting portions directly facing the first conducting portions. The spacer is disposed between the first and second conducting layers and defines a plurality of through holes. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130334020 | Foldable Keyboard - The present invention provides a foldable keyboard comprising a plurality of sections, a flat cable electrically connected between the sections, and a folding component connected between the sections. The folding component comprises fixing parts corresponding to the sections, and a connecting part connected between the fixing parts. The sections are correspondingly fixed on the fixing parts of the folding component. The connecting part is located between the sections. The sections pivot about the connecting part therebetween for folding or unfolding the foldable keyboard. The present invention adopts a folding component to connect the sections of the keyboard for folding the sections of the keyboard thereby being portable. The folding component is easy to manufacture with low cost, effectively reduces the thickness of the keyboard and extends the service life of the keyboard. | 12-19-2013 |
| 20130334021 | Keyboard Preventable Keycaps from Breaking off - The present invention provides a keyboard preventable keycaps from breaking off, which comprises a keyboard main body, and a limit board fixed to the keyboard main body. The keyboard main body comprises a base board, a thin film circuit board mounted on the base board, an elastic body mounted above the thin film circuit board, a scissors structure, and a keycap. The centre of the scissors structure is provided with a hollow part. The elastic body is located above the thin film circuit board and in the hollow part at the centre of the scissors structure. The keycap is located on the elastic body. The scissors structure is mounted to the keycap and passes through the thin film circuit board to be moveably mounted to the base board. The keycap comprises a top surface and side surfaces connected with the top surface, and the side surface is provided with a locking part extending outwards therefrom. The limit board is provided with a plurality of openings corresponding to keycaps, the keycaps pass through the openings, and the limit board covers the locking parts. The present invention can effectively prevent the keycap from breaking off under an external force. Furthermore, the present invention has a certain dustproof function, has more stable keycaps, is efficient and durable to use, and facilitates miniaturization of the keyboard. | 12-19-2013 |
| 20130334022 | Keyswitch and Keyboard Including the Same - A keyswitch, disposed on a base plate, includes a keycap and a scissors-like supporting structure. The scissors-like supporting structure is disposed on the base plate and supports the keycap. The scissors-like supporting structure includes a first supporting member and a second supporting member. The first supporting member includes a first engaging shaft and a second engaging shaft respectively engaged with the base plate and the keycap. The second supporting member is pivotally connected to the first supporting member and includes a third engaging shaft and a fourth engaging shaft respectively engaged with the base plate and the keycap. A line connected between the centers of gravity of the first and second engaging shaft is not perpendicular to the first and second engaging shaft. A line connected between the centers of gravity of the third and fourth engaging shaft is not perpendicular to the third and fourth engaging shaft. | 12-19-2013 |
| 20130341170 | KEY MEMBRANE AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE USING THE SAME - An electronic device comprises a housing, a printed circuit board (PCB) received in the housing, and a key membrane covered on the PCB. The housing comprises a key portion with a plurality of keys. The key membrane comprises a first insulating layer and a second insulating layer covered by the first insulating layer. The second insulating layer is mounted on the PCB and defines a plurality of through holes. The through holes correspond to the plurality of keys in a one-to-one relationship. When one of the plurality of keys is being pressed, a part of the first insulating layer corresponding to the pressed key is deformed and establishes the electrical connection with the PCB, thus the PCB is actuated to generate a corresponding control signal. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20140008196 | PATTERNED CONDUCTIVE TRACES IN MOLDED ELASTOMERE SUBSTRATE - Touch sensitive mechanical keyboards and processes for routing the drive and sense lines of the touch sensitive keyboard using patterned dome-switches are provided. The keyboard can include one or more mechanical keys having a touch sensor located within or beneath a keycap. The keyboard can further include a dome-switch beneath each keycap to detect a depression of the corresponding key. The dome-switch can be formed from an elastic (or malleable) material and can include patterned conductive traces within the elastic material. The patterned conductive traces can be used to route stimulation signals and sense signals to and from the touch sensor. In some examples, a first end of the patterned conductive traces can be coupled to the drive and sense lines of the touch sensor and a second end of the patterned conductive traces can be coupled to a flexible circuit or PCB. | 01-09-2014 |
| 20140008197 | NESTED KEY ASSEMBLY - The invention relates to a nested key assembly ( | 01-09-2014 |
| 20140014486 | KEYSWITCH USING MAGNETIC FORCE - A key for user input having superior tactile qualities. The key is suspended by a magnetic field force to improve the smoothness of motion. Two compact interleaved members link a keycap to a key base to provide highly precise parallel travel with reduced tilt and flexion, and improved durability. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140014487 | BUTTON MATRIX AND METHOD OF MOLDING THEREOF - A button matrix is disclosed. The button matrix includes a base portion. A button body extends from the base and is formed from a translucent material. A button top formed from an opaque material is connected to the button body. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140014488 | BACK LIGHTED MEMBRANE KEYBOARD WITH PARTS BEING SECURED TOGETHER BY SUBJECTING TO ULTRASONIC WELDING - A membrane keyboard is provided with transparent keys each including a bottom key shaft; a key housing including openings for receiving the keys, and downward extending stems; a membrane circuit board below the key housing and including elastic members and a light blocking layer; scissor-shaped structures each including a central opening, two first slide axles, two second slide axles below the first slide axles, a first pivot shaft opposing the first slide axles, and a second pivot shaft opposing the second slide axles and below the first pivot shaft wherein the first slide axles and the first pivot shaft are pivotably secured to the key bottom; a transparent light emitting and guiding plate below and electrically connected to the membrane circuit board; and an aluminum plate below the light emitting and guiding plate and including retaining members for pivotably receiving the second slide axles and the second pivot shaft. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140014489 | TOUCH PANEL - A touch panel including sensing electrode sets, first pads, second pads, first conductive lines, second conductive lines and resistors is provided. Each sensing electrode set includes a first sensing electrode pattern and second sensing electrode patterns disposed beside the first sensing electrode pattern. The first conductive lines electrically connect the first sensing electrode pattern with the first pads respectively. The second conductive lines connect the second electrode patterns into multiple series. The second sensing electrode patterns of the same sensing electrode set belong to different series and two terminals of each series are connected to different second pads. Two terminals of each resistor are connected to the different second pads connected with the two terminals of the each series. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140027254 | HYBRID KEYPAD APPARATUS - Hybrid keypad apparatus are disclosed herein. An example hybrid keypad apparatus includes a dome-switch assembly having a first plurality of domes composed of a first material and a second plurality of domes composed of a second material different from the first material. A carrier couples the first and second plurality of domes. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140027255 | KNOB STRUCTURE AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE THEREOF - A knob structure and an electronic device thereof are disclosed. The knob structure is assembled with a case of the electronic device and includes a plurality of pressing portions, an elastic component, and a fixing component. At least one pressing portion has a pressing rib used for pressing a switch module. The elastic component includes a main body and a plurality of elastic ribs. The plurality of elastic rib is disposed on the main body to support the pressing portion. When the pressing portion is pressed along a supporting direction, the elastic rib is capable of providing an elastic force. The fixing component includes a first end and a second end, wherein the first end connects to at least one of the plurality of pressing portions and the second end is extended along a direction different from the supporting direction and fixed to the case. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140027256 | MOBILE TERMINAL - A mobile terminal having a terminal body, a circuit board located in the terminal body, the circuit board including a plurality of switches located thereon and an input device is provided. The input device is configured to input a control command and is installed at the terminal body. The input device includes a key top configured to be pressable in one direction, the key top having a rear surface facing the circuit board, a plurality of pressing portions protruding from the rear surface of the key top, each pressing portion being configured to extend toward a corresponding switch of the plurality of switches and at least one dummy pressing portion disposed between one pressing portion and another pressing portion of the plurality of pressing portions, the at least one dummy pressing portion being supported by the circuit board when the key top is pressed such that, when one switch of the plurality of switches is pressed by said one pressing portion, the at least one dummy pressing portion is configured to prevent said another pressing portion from pressing another switch of the plurality of switches. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140034467 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD WITH A LIGHT TRANSMISSION CHANNEL - An illuminated keyboard with a light transmission channel contains a substrate used to hold a plurality of press units, a circuit board disposed on the substrate and triggered by the press units, and a light shielding unit disposed on the circuit board and having a permeable area and a light impermeable area. The light impermeable area of the light shielding unit and a non-transparent surface of the circuit board form a light transmission channel between the substrate and the plurality of press units. The illuminated keyboard also contains at least one illuminating unit to emit light into the light transmission channel, thus the light can be projected to the plurality of press units through the light permeable area of the light shielding unit. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140034468 | TOUCHSURFACE ASSEMBLIES WITH LINKAGES - A key assembly in accordance with embodiments of the invention comprises a base, a keycap, a biasing mechanism, a first linkage, and a second linkage. The keycap is spaced from the base along a press direction and configured to move between an unpressed position and a pressed position relative to the base. The unpressed and pressed positions are separated by a first amount in the press direction and a second amount in a lateral direction orthogonal to the press direction. The first amount is at least as much as the second amount and no larger than twice the second amount. The biasing mechanism is configured to bias the keycap away from the base. The first and second linkages are rotatably coupled to the base and the keycap. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140034469 | TOUCHSURFACE ASSEMBLY WITH DEFLECTABLE SPRING MECHANISM - A touchsurface assembly comprises a base, a pressable touchsurface, and a deflectable spring. The pressable touchsurface is configured to move between an unpressed position and a pressed position relative to the base. The deflectable spring comprises a fixed portion and a contact portion. The contact portion is configured to contact a spring guiding profile. As the touchsurface moves from the unpressed position to the pressed position, the contact portion physically interacts with different sections of the spring guiding profile. This interaction causes different deflections of the deflectable spring and produces reaction forces that resist keycap motion toward the pressed position and bias the keycap toward the unpressed position. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140034470 | TOUCHSURFACE ASSEMBLY WITH LEVEL AND PLANAR TRANSLATIONAL RESPONSIVENESS VIA A BUCKLING ELASTIC COMPONENT - Methods and apparatus for a touchsurface assembly such as a key assembly are described. The touchsurface assembly includes a keycap, a base and an elastic component coupled to the keycap and the base. The elastic component supports the keycap away from the base in an unpressed position, and directionally buckles during movement of the keycap toward a pressed position responsive to a press force. The press force moves the keycap in a press direction toward the pressed position, and the directionally buckling of the elastic component allows the keycap to move in a second direction orthogonal to the press direction. Upon release of the press force, the elastic component moves the keycap toward the unpressed position after release of the press force. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140034471 | TOUCHSURFACE ASSEMBLY UTILIZING MAGNETICALLY ENABLED HINGE - Methods and apparatus for a touchsurface assembly such as a key assembly are described. The touchsurface assembly includes a base, a keycap and a magnet physically coupled to the base near to the keycap. A keycap coupler has a first portion magnetically attracted to the magnet and a second portion cantilevered from the magnet to support the keycap in an unpressed position. When a press force applied to the keycap overcomes a magnetic force pulling the keycap coupler toward the magnet, the keycap coupler pivots away from the magnet to allow the keycap to move toward a pressed position. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140034472 | KEYBOARD CONSTRUCTION HAVING A SENSING LAYER BELOW A CHASSIS LAYER - A keyboard having a sensor layer below a chassis layer is described. In one embodiment, the keyboard includes a keyboard chassis and a plurality of keycaps positioned above the keyboard chassis. Each of the plurality of keycaps has a touch surface for receiving a press force. A sensor substrate is positioned below the keyboard chassis and has sensor electrodes configured to sense that one or more of the plurality of keycaps is in a pressed position | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140042005 | RESILIENT PRESSING MEMBER STRUCTURE - The instant disclosure is a resilient pressing member structure having a pressing unit disposed on top of a translucent insulated layer, an upper cover, a light-emitting unit, two conductive layers and a spacer. The pressing unit includes a plurality of pressing members while the cover is formed with a cavity filled with a fluid to achieve the effect of pressure dispersion. A light guiding structure and a light reflecting structure are disposed on the topside and the backside of the insulated layer, respectively. The insulated layer is formed by at least one light unit opening which extends through the insulated layer. The light-emitting unit is hosted inside the light unit opening. Light from the light-emitting unit penetrates the insulated layer and reaches the pressing member. Then the guiding structure directs light while the reflecting structure reflects light towards the pressing member, thus illuminates the pressing member. | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140048397 | SELF ALIGNING MINIMAL GAP KEYCAPS - Keyboard keys are outfitted with alignment features whose configuration, placement and geometry on a key serve to allow the key to automatically self-locate when the key returns from a pressed down, accessed, position, to its home, resting, position. In this manner, keyboards can be designed with keys with minimal keycap gaps that reduce the perceptible variance in the keycap spacing to be ascetically pleasing with minimal manufacturing costs. | 02-20-2014 |
| 20140048398 | TOUCH PANEL - A touch panel includes a protective cover with a lower surface herein, and an active region and a periphery region defined on the lower surface. A first sensing structure is disposed on the lower surface and covers the active region. A shelter layer is disposed on the lower surface and in the periphery region, wherein the shelter layer includes a highlight region and a highlight contrast region, a first pattern is disposed in the highlight region, and a non-transparent layer with a second pattern is disposed in the highlight region, wherein the first pattern is overlapped by the second pattern. | 02-20-2014 |
| 20140048399 | Input Device Securing Techniques - Input device equalization techniques are described. In one or more implementations, an input device includes a sensor substrate having a plurality of sets of one or more conductors of a respective plurality of pressure sensitive keys, a spacer layer disposed proximal to the sensor substrate and having a plurality of openings that expose the plurality of sets of conductors, respectively, a flexible contact layer, and a press equalization device. The pressure equalization device is formed as a series of connected channels that connect one or more of the plurality of openings to an outside area of the input device to permit air pressure of the outside area to generally equalize with air pressure within the one or more of the plurality of openings. | 02-20-2014 |
| 20140054149 | TOUCH PANEL AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - The present invention provides a touch panel. The touch panel includes first sensing lines extending in a first direction, second sensing lines extending in a second direction and intersecting with the first sensing lines, an insulating pad disposed at each intersection between the first sensing lines and the second sensing lines for isolating the first sensing lines and the second sensing lines. A direction of an external force exerted in the insulating pad is non-perpendicular to the edge of said insulating pad on the same horizontal plane. The present invention also provides a manufacturing method of the touch panel. The design of the insulating pad can disperse the external impact force caused by air knife, washing and so on, and preventing the cut-off of the insulating pad, thereby improving the yield of the touch panel. | 02-27-2014 |
| 20140054150 | CARBON NANOTUBE TOUCH PANEL HAVING AT LEAST TWO CARBON NANOTUBE FILMS - A carbon nanotube (CNT) touch panel includes a base with a first touch region and a second touch region, a first CNT film placed on the first touch region of the base, a second CNT film placed on the second touch region of the base, and a flexible printed circuit (FPC) mounted on an edge of the base. A plurality of first connection wires and a plurality of second connection wires are formed on the base. The first connection wires interconnect the first CNT film and the FPC, and the second connection wires interconnect the second CNT film and the FPC. | 02-27-2014 |
| 20140054151 | TOUCH PANEL AND TOUCH DISPLAY APPARATUS USING SAME - A touch panel includes a first sub-panel and a second sub-panel. One of the first sub-panel and the second sub-panel comprises a carbon nanotube (CNT) film. Each of the first sub-panel and the second sub-panel comprises a touch sensing region and a first side region connecting a first side of the touch sensing region. The first side region is bent towards the touch sensing region and an intersection angle is formed between the side region and the touch sensing region. The first side region of the first sub-panel is attached to the first side region of the second sub-panel such that the touch sensing region of the first sub-panel and the touch sensing region of the second sub-panel are joined together. | 02-27-2014 |
| 20140054152 | TOUCH PANEL AND TOUCH DISPLAY APPARATUS USING SAME - A touch panel includes a first sub-panel and a second sub-panel. Each of the first sub-panel and the second sub-panel comprises a carbon nanotube (CNT) film and defines a touch sensing region and a first side region connecting a first side of the touch sensing region. The first side region is bent towards the touch sensing region and an intersection angle is formed between the side region and the touch sensing region. The first side region of the first sub-panel is attached to the first side region of the second sub-panel such that the touch sensing region of the first sub-panel and the touch sensing region of the second sub-panel are located in a same plane and joined together. | 02-27-2014 |
| 20140061017 | LUMINESCENT KEYSWITCH MODULE AND KEYBOARD THEREOF - A luminescent keyswitch module includes a base plate, a keyswitch, a light guide plate, a light source, a diffusion structure, and a reflector. The keyswitch is disposed on the base plate. The light guide plate, disposed under the base plate, has an accommodating space communicated with a through hole of the base plate. The light source passes through the through hole, is accommodated in the accommodating space, and emits light having a first divergence angle. The diffusion structure is accommodated in the accommodating space and located between the light source and the light guide plate. The light passes through the diffusion structure. The light leaving the second light exit surface has a second divergence angle larger than the first divergence angle. The reflector is disposed under the light guide plate, so as to reflect the light to pass through the light guide plate and the base plate to the keyswitch. | 03-06-2014 |
| 20140069790 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING INPUTS TO AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH A BUTTON ASSEMBLY - This is directed to systems and methods for providing inputs to an electronic device with a button assembly. The button assembly may include a center region, a first end region that may extend from a first side of the center region, and a second end region that may extend from a second side of the center region. Each one of the first end region and the second end region may include a first flexibility, and the center region may include a second flexibility that may be less than the first flexibility. | 03-13-2014 |
| 20140069791 | FLEXIBLE KEYBOARD ASSEMBLY - Embodiments of the invention are directed to a method of assembling a folio case. The method comprises molding a set of molded key caps over a flexible fabric layer to form a fabric key cap layer, where the key caps do not pass through the flexible fabric layer. The method further comprises affixing a first portion of the flexible key cap layer opposite the set of molded key caps to an interior portion of a housing, and affixing an intermediate layer between the interior portion of the housing and a second portion of the fabric key cap layer corresponding to the set of molded key caps opposite the first portion. The method further comprises attaching a first portion of a holder to the first portion of the flexible key cap layer configured to receive a computing device, wherein a second portion of the holder is not fixedly attached to the flexible key cap layer. | 03-13-2014 |
| 20140069792 | Protective Cover for a Tablet Computer - In certain embodiments, an input device includes a key frame having a top surface and comprised of a flexible fabric, and a plurality of key caps disposed on the surface of the key frame, where the key caps do not pass through the key frame. In some cases, the plurality of key caps can be comprised of a flexible material such as polyurethane (PU). The key frame can be comprised of PU or a flexible polyester. The input device can further include an outer shell having an exterior portion and an interior portion and the interior portion having a front side and a back side. The key frame can be coupled to the interior portion such that the plurality of key caps is configured on the interior portion and front side of the outer shell. | 03-13-2014 |
| 20140069793 | TUNED SWITCH SYSTEM - The described embodiments relate to methods and apparatus for fine-tuning a resistance profile for a mechanical switch. In one embodiment, by combining a switch with one or more damping or support materials a tuned switch system can be formed. The damping or support materials can modify the force and displacement characteristics of the switch, thereby allowing a user experience to be customized. The damping or support materials can be arranged in series and/or in parallel with the mechanical switch. | 03-13-2014 |
| 20140076703 | LIGHT EMITTING KEYBOARD - A light emitting keyboard is provided. The keyboard includes: a plurality of keys, wherein each of the keys has a light source; and a controller, for turning on the light source of at least one second key when a user presses a first key. | 03-20-2014 |
| 20140090966 | KEYBOARD WITH SCREW NUT - A keyboard comprising a keyboard module, a support plate and at least one screw nut attached to the support plate. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140097072 | KEYBOARD AND METHOD FOR ASSEMBLING KEYBOARD AND PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE - A keyboard applicable to a portable electronic device includes a flexible circuit board, a plurality of keys, a flexible frame, a first support plate, and a second support plate. The flexible circuit board has a first and a second surface. The plurality of keys is disposed on the first surface. The flexible frame is disposed on the first surface and has a plurality of through holes for keys to pass through. The first support plate is disposed on the second surface, and a part of the periphery of the first support plate is connected to the flexible frame. The second support plate is disposed on the second surface and adjacent to the first support plate, and a part of the periphery of the second support plate is connected to the flexible frame. Additionally, also provided is a method for assembling a keyboard and a portable electronic device. | 04-10-2014 |
| 20140102868 | KEYBOARD - A keyboard is provided with a base member, moving members provided on the base member and unit parts. Each of the unit parts includes a contact which is electrically connected when depressed and an elastic member. The moving members include a first moving member which engages with one unit part, and a second moving member which engages with plural unit parts. The second moving member has a structure where the second moving member pushes the elastic member of one unit part and avoids pushing the elastic member of the other unit part. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140110236 | TOUCH SCREEN PANEL - A touch screen panel includes a substrate having a touch area and a routing wiring area, a plurality of first electrode serials formed in a first direction in the touch area, a plurality of second electrode serials which are arranged in a second direction crossing the first direction in the touch area so that the first and second electrode serials do not contact, a plurality of first routing wires which are formed in the routing wiring area and are respectively connected to one ends of the first electrode serials, and a plurality of second routing wires which are formed in the routing wiring area and are respectively connected to one ends of the second electrode serials. Odd-numbered first routing wires and even-numbered first routing wires of the first routing wires are formed on different layers. | 04-24-2014 |
| 20140124347 | TOUCH ELECTRODE STRUCTURE AND A METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - The present disclosure discloses a touch panel, a touch electrode structure, and a manufacturing method thereof. The touch electrode structure comprises a plurality of first-axis sensing lines and at least one first laser etching line. The plurality of first-axis sensing lines are formed by laser etching a first conducting layer, wherein each first-axis sensing line at least has a first output pin. The first laser etching line is formed around the corresponding first output pin by laser etching the first conducting layer. Thus, the present disclosure can reduce overall production time by using a simplified manufacturing process in a laser etching process to form an improved touch electrode structure. | 05-08-2014 |
| 20140124348 | KEYBOARD DEVICE - A keyboard device including a lower cover, an upper cover for covering the lower cover and a keyboard module is provided. The lower cover has a plurality of hook structures, and the keyboard module includes a plurality of key caps and a plurality of scissor-type connecting elements. The plurality of hook structures are connected with the plurality of scissor-type connecting elements, and the plurality of scissor-type connecting elements are connected with the plurality of key caps. As a result, the lower cover is able to connect with the plurality of key caps without an additional base plate such that the cost of the keyboard device can be decreased and the volume of the keyboard device can be reduced. | 05-08-2014 |
| 20140124349 | POWER WINDOW SWITCH - A power window switch includes: an upper case including a plurality of openings; a plurality of operation portions which are respectively positioned in the openings and are supported to be oscillated; a plurality of drive bodies which are arranged on a lower side of the operation portions and are lifted and lowered according to the oscillation operations of the operation portions; an elastic sheet including a plurality of pressing portions that are pressed according to the lifting and lowering operations of the drive bodies; a board disposed on a lower side of the elastic sheet; and a lower case. In the board, at least a first board and a second board are electrically connected, the second board includes a plurality of contact portions corresponding to the pressing portions, and conduction of the contact portions can be switched according to the operations of the pressing portions. | 05-08-2014 |
| 20140138226 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD - An illuminated keyboard includes a key structure and a backlight membrane switch board. The backlight membrane switch board includes a light source, a light guide plate, a wiring plate, and a partition plate. The light guide plate includes a first circuit layer. The wiring plate includes a second circuit layer and a light source circuit layer. The electrical connection between the first circuit layer and the second circuit layer results in a key signal. The light source circuit layer is used for driving the light source. Since the first circuit layer is disposed on the light guide plate, less amount of substrates is required and the illuminated keyboard is slim. Moreover, since the second circuit layer and the light source circuit layer have a shared pin, the ease of assembling the backlight membrane switch board is enhanced. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140138227 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD - An illuminated keyboard includes a key structure, a non-contact sensor board, a light source, a light guide plate, and a light source circuit layer. The non-contact sensor board is used for sensing the key structure. The light source circuit layer is disposed on the non-contact sensor board for driving the light source to emit a light beam. The light guide plate is located at a side of the light source for transferring the light beam from the light source. Since the light source circuit layer is disposed on the non-contact sensor board, the overall height of the illuminated keyboard is reduced. Moreover, since the light source circuit layer is disposed on the non-contact sensor board, the non-contact sensor board and the light source circuit layer have a shared pin. Under this circumstance, the ease of assembling the illuminated keyboard of the present invention is enhanced. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140138228 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD - A luminous keyboard includes plural bottom-emitting type illumination elements, a sensing module, plural keys, and plural light-transmissible elastic elements. As a key is moved toward the sensing module, the sensing module generates a corresponding non-contact key signal. Each bottom-emitting type illumination element is aligned with a key, and disposed under the corresponding key. Each light-transmissible elastic element is aligned with a bottom-emitting type illumination element, and arranged between the corresponding bottom-emitting type illumination element and the corresponding key. After the light beam provided by each bottom-emitting type illumination element is transmitted through the corresponding light-transmissible elastic element, the light beam is projected to the corresponding key. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140138229 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD - A luminous keyboard includes plural bottom-emitting type illumination elements, a sensing module, plural keys, and a light-transmissible supporting plate. As a key is moved toward the sensing module, the sensing module generates a corresponding non-contact key signal. Each bottom-emitting type illumination element is aligned with the corresponding key, and disposed under the corresponding key. The light-transmissible supporting plate is arranged between the plural bottom-emitting type illumination elements and the plural keys. After the light beam provided by each bottom-emitting type illumination element is transmitted through the light-transmissible supporting plate, the light beam is projected to the corresponding key. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140138230 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD - An illuminated keyboard includes a keycap, a keycap guiding frame, a light guide plate and a sensing circuit layer, which are sequentially arranged from top to bottom. The keycap guiding frame is used for fixing the keycap and guiding movement of the keycap. The light guide plate is used for fixing the keycap guiding frame and transferring the light beam from a light-emitting element. As the keycap is depressed by the user, the approaching keycap is sensed by the sensing circuit layer, and thus the sensing circuit layer generates a corresponding non-contact key signal. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140138231 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD - A luminous keyboard includes a lateral-emitting type illumination element, a light guide panel, a sensing circuit pattern and plural keys. The lateral-emitting type illumination element is used for providing a light beam to the light guide panel, so that the light beam is diffused to the whole light guide panel. The light guide panel has plural light-guiding dots for collecting and scattering the light beam. The portion of the light beam scattered upwardly by the light-guiding dots is projected to the plural keys. The sensing circuit pattern is formed within the light guide panel or formed on a surface of the light guide panel. When any key is moved toward the sensing circuit pattern, the sensing circuit pattern generates a corresponding non-contact key signal. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140138232 | EXTENDED KEYBOARD, ELECTRONIC DEVICE, AND KEYBOARD EXTENDING SYSTEM - An extended keyboard includes keys and conductive contact points. Each key is connected to a corresponding one or more conductive contact points. The conductive contact points protrude from a backside of the extended keyboard. The conductive contact points are used to contact with a multi-point touch screen of an electronic device when the extended keyboard is placed on the multi-point touch screen of the electronic device, such that when an operation is applied to one key, the corresponding one or more conductive contact points electrically connected to the key conduct the operation to positions of the multi-point touch screen contacted with the corresponding conductive contact points. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140151208 | SIMPLE ASSEMBLY THIN KEYBOARD - A simple assembly thin keyboard includes at least one circuit board and a plurality of keycap assembly located on the circuit board and movable vertically to press the circuit board to generate keyboard command signals. The keycap assembly includes a plurality of first keycaps and second keycaps. Each first keycap abuts at least one second keycaps. The abutting first keycaps and second keycaps are interposed by a plurality of connection arms. Each connection arm includes at least one first connecting section connecting to the first keycap, at least one second connecting section connecting to the second keycap and an elastic section which bridges the first connecting section and second connecting section and contains at least one stress reversion spot. Through the connection arm bridged the first and second keycaps to substitute the conventional driven mechanism total thickness of the keyboard can be reduced, and assembly also is simpler. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140151209 | THIN KEYBOARD - A thin keyboard includes a circuit board, a plurality of keycaps and a frame. The circuit board has a plurality of command portions to receive contact to generate command signals and a plurality of elastic support members located on the command portions. Each keycap is corresponding to one elastic support member and has at least one depressible press surface and a holding surface formed at an elevation difference interval with the press surface. The transverse cross section of the holding surface is greater than the transverse cross section of the press surface. The frame is positioned corresponding to the keycaps and has a plurality of installation portions corresponding to the keycaps, and a plurality of ribs abutting the circumference of the installation portions and overlapped over the holding surface of each keycap. Each installation portion has a carved out area which is smaller than the holding surface. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140151210 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD EQUIPPED WITH LIGHT EMITTING KEYCAPS - An illuminated keyboard equipped with light emitting keycaps includes a keyboard portion and a light emitting portion. The keyboard portion includes at least one circuit board contained a plurality of keyboard command portions and a plurality of press members located above the circuit board corresponding to the keyboard command portions that are depressible to trigger the keyboard command portions. Each press member has a press surface, a holding surface and a coupling surface interposed between the press surface and holding surface. The press surface and circuit board form a light projection zone therebetween. The light emitting portion includes a lighting unit to provide light to the light projection zone and a light mask plate. The light mask plate has an aperture to expose the press surface and a light mask portion overlapped over the holding surface. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140151211 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD - A luminous keyboard includes: a plurality of key caps; a light guiding plate disposed under the key caps; a reflector disposed under the light guiding plate; a masking layer disposed between the key caps and the light guiding plate; a membrane circuit unit disposed under the key caps and on the masking layer; and a luminous unit having a conductive lead, and an illuminant electrically connected to the conductive lead. The conductive lead is made of a material including a conductive polymer gel and a conductive powder and is formed directly on one of the reflector, the masking layer and the membrane circuit unit. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140151212 | KEYBOARD - A keyboard includes a non-conductive board, a plurality of keyswitches, and a capacitive touch sensing sheet. The plurality of keyswitches is disposed on the non-conductive board. Each keyswitch includes a keycap and a support device. The support device is connected to the keycap and the non-conductive board so as to make the keycap movable between a pressing position and a non-pressing position relative to the non-conductive board. The capacitive touch sensing sheet is disposed under the non-conductive board for providing a cursor signal to a computer device. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140166454 | SENSING KEYBOARD DEVICE WITH LUMINOUS KEY - A sensing keyboard device includes at least one luminous key, a non-contact sensor board, at least one light-emitting element, a light guide plate, and a bottom plate. When the non-contact sensor board is triggered by the at least one luminous key, at least one key signal is generated. The at least one light-emitting element is used for emitting at least one light beam. The light guide plate is used for guiding the at least one light beam. An edge of the bottom plate is bent toward the at least one luminous key, and the edge of the bottom plate is near an edge of the light guide plate, so that the at least one light beam is prevented from being leaked out from the edge of the light guide plate. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166455 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD - A luminous keyboard includes a lateral-emitting type illumination element, a light guide panel, a sensing circuit pattern, a light-transmissible substrate, a supporting plate, and plural keys. When one of the keys is moved toward the sensing circuit pattern, the sensing circuit pattern generates a corresponding non-contact key signal. The lateral-emitting type illumination element is used for providing a light beam to the light guide panel. Consequently, the light beam can be diffused to the whole light guide panel. The light guide panel has plural light-guiding dots for collecting and scattering the light beam. The light-transmissible substrate is arranged between the light guide panel and the plural keys, and has plural light diffusion structures corresponding to the plural keys. The light beam scattered upwardly by each light-guiding dot is sequentially transmitted through the corresponding light diffusion structure and the supporting plate and directed to the corresponding key. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166456 | KEYBOARD DEVICE WITH LUMINOUS KEY - A keyboard device with a luminous key is provided. The keyboard device includes at least one luminous key, a light-emitting element, and a light shade, and a membrane switch circuit module. When the membrane switch circuit member is triggered by the at least one luminous key, the membrane switch circuit member generates at least one luminous key signal. The light-emitting element is used for emitting a light beam. The light shade is used for shading the light beam. Moreover, the light shade and the membrane switch circuit member are integrally formed with each other. Consequently, the light shade can be securely fixed on the membrane switch circuit module. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166457 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD - An illuminated keyboard includes a key structure, a key wiring board, and a light-emitting element. The light-emitting element is located at a lateral side of the key wiring board. The key structure is disposed over the key wiring board. When the key structure is depressed, the key wiring board is triggered to generate a corresponding key signal. Moreover, a light-guiding structure is formed on the key wiring board. The light beam transferred within the key wiring board is guided by the light-guiding structure to be scattered to the key structure. After the light beam to be scattered to the key structure is converged by a light-converging microstructure on the key wiring board, the light beam is converged and centralized to be directed to keycap of the key structure. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166458 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD - A luminous keyboard includes a lateral-emitting type illumination element, a light guide panel, a sensing circuit pattern, a light-transmissible supporting plate, and plural keys. The lateral-emitting type illumination element is used for providing a light beam to the light guide panel. Consequently, the light beam can be diffused to the whole light guide panel. The light guide panel has plural light-guiding dots for collecting and scattering the light beam. The light-transmissible supporting plate is arranged between the light guide panel and the plural keys, and has plural light diffusion structures corresponding to the plural keys. The light beam scattered upwardly by each light-guiding dot is sequentially transmitted through the corresponding light diffusion structure and directed to the corresponding key. When one of the keys is moved toward the sensing circuit pattern, the sensing circuit pattern generates a corresponding non-contact key signal. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140183017 | CONTROL MODULE WITH REDUNDANT SWITCHES - A control module includes a housing, a continuous cover supported by the housing, and a plurality of switches positioned within the housing in selective mechanical engagement with the continuous cover. Each of the plurality of switches is electrically configured to be capable of independently triggering a particular function when the continuous cover is moved relative to the housing. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140183018 | ILLUMINATED KEYCAP FOR GENERATING SOFT LIGHT - An illuminated keycap for generating soft light is located in a keyboard which includes a command circuit board located beneath the keycap and a lighting unit to project light to the keycap. The keycap includes a press surface, a connecting section extended from the press surface towards the command circuit board and a color display surface extended from the connecting section and parallel to the press surface. The press surface, connecting section and color display surface form a light retaining zone. The press surface has a top surface coated with a first pigment layer. The color display surface has a bottom surface coated with a second pigment layer whose color is different from the first pigment layer. The first and second pigment layers form a mixed color so that light generated by the lighting unit to enter the light retaining zone is emitted softly through the connecting section. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140183019 | KEY INPUT DEVICE - There is provided a key input device including a supporting member including groove portions inclined with respect to a horizontal direction, a plurality of keytops each including a sliding portion which is fitted in a corresponding groove portion of the groove portions and slides along the groove portion, and a control member configured to cause two or more keytops of the plurality of keytops to slide obliquely downward along the groove portions. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140183020 | CAPACITIVE TOUCH SENSITIVE HOUSING AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - A method for making a capacitive touch sensitive housing, comprises: forming a non-patterned active metal layer on a housing wall; patterning the non-patterned active metal layer on the housing wall by laser ablation such that the non-patterned active metal layer is formed into a patterned active metal layer including a plurality of plating portions separated from each other, and a plurality of non-plating portions separated from the plating portions; and forming a metal layer on the patterned active metal layer such that the metal layer has first portions formed on the plating portions of the patterned active metal layer, and second portions formed on the non-plating portions of the patterned active metal layer. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140190807 | TOUCH PANEL AND A MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - The present disclosure relates to a touch technology, and more particularly, to a touch panel and a manufacturing method the same. A touch panel is provided, comprising an inductive electrode layer and a patterned protective layer covering the inductive electrode layer; wherein formative pattern of the patterned protective layer is identical to that of the inductive electrode layer. The present disclosure also provides a manufacturing method for touch panels. A touch panel and a manufacturing method the same are provided in the present disclosure, in which the patterned protective layer is used for covering the inductive electrode layer to isolate the inductive electrode layer from oxygen and overcome the influence of oxygen on the diamond resistance changes of conductive materials under the condition of high-temperature baking, thereby enhancing the accuracy of touch positions recognized by touch panel. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140190808 | BRIDGING STRUCTURE FOR SIGNAL TRANSMISSION OF TOUCH PANEL - The invention includes a substrate with a visible area and a shielded area, a touch panel overlapped on the substrate and having touch sensor units overlapping with the visible area and a bridging layer with an insulating film. The touch sensor units are connected with signal wires to electric contacts corresponding to the shielded area. The insulating film cloaks the signal wires and electric contacts. The insulating film is formed with through holes corresponding to the electric contacts and is provided with bridging wires between every two adjacent through holes for connecting all of the electric contacts. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140190809 | AUXILIARY KEYBOARD AND AUXILIARY INPUT DEVICE - An auxiliary keyboard comprises an insulating board and a plurality of conductive keys. The insulating board has a sheet having a plurality of portions respectively defining a plurality of thru holes, a plurality of resilient supporting portions respectively connected to the sheet correspondingly arranged to the thru holes, and a plurality of combined portions respectively connected to the resilient supporting portions. The thickness of each combined portion is about 0.05 mm to 1 mm. Each conductive key is defined by a bonded portion and an exposed portion. The bonded portions of the conductive keys are respectively and seamlessly coupled to the combined portions, and the exposed portions are arranged to allow exposure from the insulating board. Thus, the conductive keys are firmly fixed on the insulating board by the connection between each conductive key and each combined portion. The instant disclosure also provides an auxiliary input device. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140190810 | STABILIZATION TECHNIQUES FOR KEY ASSEMBLIES AND KEYBOARDS - Key stabilization techniques for a key assembly or keyboard are provided. In one embodiment, a key assembly includes a keycap having a touch surface for receiving a press force that moves the keycap from an unpressed position toward a pressed position. The key assembly also includes a base having a planar-translation effecting mechanism supporting the keycap to guide the keycap in the press direction and the second direction as the keycap moves from the unpressed position toward the pressed position. A key stabilization mechanism positioned in the keycap, the base or both the keycap and the base configured to the stabilize the keycap so that the touch surface remains substantially planar while the keycap moves from the unpressed position toward the press position to resist tilt of the keycap and rotation of the keycap about an axis in the press direction as keycap moves toward the pressed position. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140190811 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CAPACITIVELY DETECTING KEY MOTION AND FINGER PRESENCE ON A MAGNETIC KEYBOARD KEY - Devices and methods for capacitively sensing key cap position during the initial and latter stages of a keystroke. A key assembly includes a stationary key guide magnet, a movable key cap magnet, and a transmitter/receiver electrode pair. One or both of the electrodes underlies the key cap. The capacitance change between the electrodes during a keystroke includes the capacitance change between the key cap and the electrode pair, and the change in capacitance between the key cap and the key guide. Key cap position may thus be accurately detected throughout the entire keystroke. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140202839 | KEY ASSEMBLY FOR A HANDHELD ELECTRONIC DEVICE HAVING A ONE-PIECE KEYCAP - A key assembly for an electronic device having a one-piece keycap and an electronic device having such a keycap are provided. In accordance with one embodiment, there is provided a key assembly for use in an electronic device, comprising: a keycap having a plurality of rigid key portions separated by mechanically deforming portions; and a flexible member having opposed first and second sides, the first side having a plurality of key stems which are attached to the plurality of key portions, the second side having a plurality of actuators for actuating dome switches of the electronic device. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140202840 | Capacitively Operating Touch Panel Device - A multi-layer body has a transparent first area which comprises a plurality of touch panels in the first area with a carrier substrate transparent in the first area, and a partially electrically conductive first layer transparent at least in the first area. The first layer has, in the first area, electrically conductive transmission areas, receiving areas and connection areas each formed by a pattern of electrically conductive, non-transparent tracks whose width in the first area is such that the electrically conductive transmission areas, receiving areas and connection areas are transparent. One of the electrically conductive transmission areas and one of the electrically conductive receiving areas are in each touch panel in the first layer and galvanically separated from each other on both sides of a gap separating them, wherein n transmission areas of different touch panels in the first layer are electrically connected to each other and to a contact area outside the first area in the first layer via one of the electrically conductive connection areas of the first layer, and m receiving areas of different touch panels in the first layer are electrically connected to each other and to a contact area formed outside the first area in the first layer via one of the electrically conductive connection areas formed in the first layer, wherein n≧ and m≧2. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140216907 | KEYBOARD DEVICE - A keyboard device is located in an accommodating space of a housing having first openings and a second opening. The keyboard device includes a flexible body and a transparent liquid. The flexible body is located in the accommodating space, and includes a main body, first pressing portions, patterns, and a second pressing portion. The first pressing portions are respectively located in the first openings. The patterns are located on the main body or the first pressing portions and are respectively exposed through the first openings. The second pressing portion is located in the second opening. The main body, and the first and second pressing portions have an enclosure space therein. The transparent liquid is located in the enclosure space. When the second pressing portion is pressed, the first pressing portions expand to protrude from the first openings, such that the patterns are enlarged. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140231234 | KEYSWITCH AND KEYBOARD THEREOF - A keyswitch includes a cap, a board, first and second support members rotatably connected to the cap and the board, a seesaw member, and a magnetic member. The seesaw member movably supports at least one of the cap and the first and second support members. The magnetic member is disposed on the board corresponding to the seesaw member. When the cap is pressed, the at least one of the cap and the first and second support members drives the seesaw member to raise and the cap moves from a non-pressed position to a pressed position. When the cap is released, a magnetic attraction force between the magnetic member and the seesaw member drives the seesaw member to raise for lifting the at least one of the cap and the first and second support members, so as to move the cap back to the non-pressed position. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140246299 | Configurable Multi-Pole Relay - In some aspects, a configurable multi-pole relay system is provided. The configurable multi-pole relay system can include a first relay module, a second relay module, and a connecting structure. The first relay module can include a first switch that can be electrically connected to a first electrical circuit. The second relay module can include a second switch that can be electrically connected to a second electrical circuit. The connecting structure can include first and second physical connectors. The first physical connector can be attached to a first interlocking portion of the first relay module. The second physical connector can be attached to a second interlocking portion of the second relay module. | 09-04-2014 |
| 20140262715 | KEYFRAME MODULES FOR A FLEXIBLE KEYBOARD - Embodiments provide a flexible keyboard including a flexible skin layer and a set of key frame modules coupled to one side of the flexible skin layer. The flexible skin layer can be made of at least one of polyurethane or polyester. The keyframe module can include a metal support plate for conducting a signal and a key structure situated over the metal support plate for providing tactile feedback when the key frame module is actuated. A plastic key cap structure can be situated over the dome structure. The flexible skin layer can be coupled to the plastic key cap. The key structure can be a dome structure where the flexible skin layer is a rubber or a fabric skin layer. The key structure can be a scissors key structure where the flexible skin layer is a rubber skin layer. Flexible key caps can be molded to the flexible skin layer. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140262716 | TOUCHSURFACE ASSEMBLY HAVING KEY GUIDES FORMED IN A SHEET METAL COMPONENT - Methods and apparatus for a touchsurface assembly such as a key assembly are described. The touchsurface assembly includes a sheet metal component having ramps formed therein and a keycap having ramp contacting features and a touchsurface for receiving a press force that moves the keycap toward a pressed position. The ramp contacting features contact at least one of the ramps in the sheet metal component while the keycap moves toward the pressed position, the ramps guiding the keycap to move in a second direction orthogonal to the press direction as the keycap moves from the unpressed position toward the pressed position. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140262717 | ANTI-TILT AND ROTATION TECHNIQUES FOR A TOUCHSURFACE ASSEMBLY HAVING TRANSLATING KEYS - The key assembly comprises a keycap having a touchsurface for receiving a press force that moves the keycap from an unpressed position toward a pressed position. The keycap has first and second ramp contacting features comprising first and second angular protrusions. The first and second angular protrusions have first and second protrusion angles relative to first and second side portions of the keycap (respectively). The key assembly also comprises a base having first and second ramps that contact the first and second ramp contacting features and guide the keycap in the press direction and the second direction as the keycap moves from the unpressed position toward the pressed position. The base has first and second angular features configured to contact the first and second angular protrusions of the first and second ramp contacting features (respectively) to resist rotation of the keycap as the keycap moves toward the pressed position. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140284193 | COMMAND GENERATION STRUCTURE FOR THIN KEYBOARDS - A command generation structure for thin keyboards includes a circuit board and a frame stacked over the circuit board. The circuit board has a plurality of keyboard command portions to receive contact to generate command signals. The frame includes a plurality of housing zones corresponding to the keyboard command portions, at least two connection arms extended from any two diagonal corner positions of each housing zone towards the keyboard command portion, and at least one press member connected to the connection arms and depressible to contact the keyboard command portion. Each connection arm has at least one first connecting section connected to one corner position, at least one second connecting section connected to the press member, and an elastic section which bridges the first connecting section and second connecting section and has at least one stress bend spot. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140284194 | MEMBRANE SWITCH AND CONNECTION SOCKET - A membrane switch has two membranes. Each membrane includes a substrate section and a tail section extending from the substrate section. Each membrane has a circuit surface and a back surface opposite to each other. The two substrate sections overlap with the two circuit surfaces facing to each other. One of the two tail sections has a bypass portion at least partially avoiding the projection of the other tail section in the normal direction of the other circuit surface. The distal ends of the two tail sections overlap with the two back surfaces facing to each other. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140291134 | Input Device Securing Techniques - Input device adhesive techniques are described. A pressure sensitive key includes a sensor substrate having one or more conductors, a spacer layer, and a flexible contact layer. The spacer layer is disposed proximal to the sensor substrate and has at least one opening. The flexible contact layer is spaced apart from the sensor substrate by the spacer layer and configured to flex through the opening in response to an applied pressure to initiate an input. The flexible contact layer is secured to the spacer layer such that at first edge, the flexible contact layer is secured to the spacer layer at an approximate midpoint of the first edge and is not secured to the spacer along another portion of the first edge and at a second edge, the flexible contact layer is not secured to the spacer layer along an approximate midpoint of the second edge. | 10-02-2014 |
| 20140299456 | THIN KEYBOARD STRUCTURE - A thin keyboard structure includes a circuit board and a keycap assembly board located on the circuit board. The circuit board has a plurality of command portions to receive contact and generate command signals. The keycap assembly board has a frame with a plurality of press zones corresponding to the command portions. Each press zone has at least one press portion corresponding to one command portion and depressible to move towards the command portion. Each press zone also has a deformation portion centered on the press portion and coiled and extended continuously from the press portion towards the frame at a preset interval to provide deformation and return force for the press portion during movement towards the command portion. The press portion and deformation portion replace the driven mechanism used in the conventional keyboard, hence total thickness of the keyboard can be reduced to make the keyboard thinner. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140299457 | KEYBOARD MODULE AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE HAVING THE SAME - A keyboard module adapted to be used in an electronic device. The electronic device has a casing. The casing has a containing opening. The keyboard module contained in the containing opening includes a bottom plate, an elastic component, a cover and a key cap disposed on the elastic component. The bottom plate disposed within the casing has a circuit. The elastic component is disposed on the bottom plate or the circuit. The cover movably disposed in the containing opening is located above the bottom plate. The cover has an opening aligned to the elastic component. A portion of the key cap protrudes from the opening Another portion of the key cap interferes with the opening, such that the key cap resists elasticity of the elastic component and moves to shorten a distance between the key cap and the bottom plate when the cover moves toward the bottom plate. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140299458 | INPUT TECHNOLOGIES - A device is provided. The device includes a first T-shaped structure defined via a first leg and a first platform. The device further includes a key cap with an interior open chamber. The cap is mounted onto the first structure such that the chamber contains the first platform. The device also includes a second T-shaped structure defined via a second leg and a second platform. The first leg vertically moves within the second leg such that the cap travels between a depressed position and a pressed position. The cap is raised above the second platform in the depressed position. The cap is in contact with the second platform in the pressed position. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140305781 | KEYSWITCH AND KEYBOARD THEREOF - A keyswitch includes a base, a keytop, and first and second support members rotatably intersecting with each other. The keytop has an engaging slot having a rotation space and an opening. The first support member has a first pivot shaft pivoted to the engaging slot and a first connecting mechanism movably connected to the base. When the first pivot shaft is passing through the opening, the engaging slot squeezes the first pivot shaft to cause deformation of a groove of the first pivot shaft so as to make the first pivot shaft have a first size. When the first pivot shaft enters the rotation space, the amount of deformation of the groove decreases to make the first pivot shaft have a second size greater than the first size and a gap of the opening, so that the first pivot shaft could be constrained in the engaging slot. | 10-16-2014 |
| 20140311880 | RETRACTABLE KEYBOARD KEYS - A keyboard includes a bezel having a plurality of key openings and a plurality of key holding features configured adjacent to the plurality of key openings on a bottom side of the bezel. A plurality of keycaps are positioned within the plurality of key openings. A chassis is included that has a plurality of planar-translation effecting mechanisms each supporting a respective one of the plurality of keycaps to guide the respective keycap in a press direction and a second direction as the keycap moves from the unpressed position toward the pressed position. The keypad or keyboard includes a key retraction mechanism configured to move the chassis relative to the bezel wherein the key holding features of the bezel limit movement of the keycaps in the second direction during movement of the chassis relative to the bezel, while the planar-translation effecting mechanisms move the plurality of keycaps toward a retracted position. | 10-23-2014 |
| 20140311881 | KEYBOARDS WITH PLANAR TRANSLATION MECHANISM FORMED FROM LAMINATED SUBSTRATES - Keyboards with planar translation effecting mechanisms formed by laminated key guides are disclosed. A key assembly for a keyboard includes a keycap having a touch surface for receiving a press force that moves the keycap from an unpressed position toward a pressed position, the unpressed position and pressed position separated in a press direction and a second direction orthogonal to the press direction. A base is included having a laminated key guide contacting a portion of the keycap to provide a planar translation effecting mechanism to guide the keycap in the press direction and the second direction as the keycap moves from the unpressed position toward the pressed position. | 10-23-2014 |
| 20140318941 | KEYBOARD WITH PIVOTING KEY SUPPORTING PORTION - A keyboard with a key supporting portion which is retractable and ergonomically suited for typing activities includes a hollowed main body. The key supporting portion has one end pivotally connected to the hollowed main body, and one or more latching holes at the other end. A latching member is slidably received in the space within the hollowed main body, and the latching member has a free end that is slidable into a latching hole, thereby locking the key supporting portion to the main body. A fingertip-operated handle transfers a releasing force to the latching member, thereby freeing the key supporting portion and allowing it to tilt upwards under spring pressure. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140318942 | KEY SWITCH AND KEYBOARD - Provided is a key switch that enables sufficiently enhancement of the rigidity of a key top. A key switch includes a support plate; a key top disposed on the support plate; a link configured to link the key top with the support plate; a switch; a first arm disposed on a back surface of the key top between the link and a first short-side end of the key top, and extending in a long-side direction of the key top; a second arm disposed on the back surface of the key top between the link and a second short-side end of the key top, and extending in the long-side direction of the key top; and a reinforcement plate mounted on the key top. The reinforcement plate comprises a short-side part extending in the short-side direction of the key top between the first arm and the second arm. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140326589 | KEY PLATE AND ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD HAVING THE SAME - A key plate includes a light-permeable covering plate having a plurality of first key openings and includes a key symbol display plate disposed on the light-permeable covering plate and having a plurality of second key openings and a plurality of light-permeable key symbol blocks. The light-permeable key symbol blocks are positioned proximate to the second key openings, respectively. The second key openings correspond in position to the first key openings, respectively. Further provided is an illuminated keyboard with the key plate. Accordingly, the key plate and the illuminated keyboard feature simplified structure, low manufacturing costs, and short manufacturing process, prevent users' fingers from hiding symbols displayed on the keys in bright and dark environments, prevent the symbols displayed on the keys from getting blurred or smeared after long contact with the users' fingers, and feature variable appearance of the key symbol display plate. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140332360 | Keyboard Integrated Pushbutton with Multi Illumination - A multi-illuminated pushbutton, including a substrate having a switch and a button cap. A lighting board may be affixed to the substrate, the lighting board having a first light source, a second light source, and a through channel disposed between the first light source and the second light source. The button cap can have a first window for transmission of light from the first light source, a second window for transmission of light from the second light source, and a button base disposed through the channel of the lighting board and in operable relation with the switch. The button base can be shaped to prevent substantially all light emitted from the first light source from transmission through the second window and prevents substantially all light emitted from the second light source from transmission through the first window. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140332361 | TOUCH INDUCTIVE UNIT AND TOUCH PANEL - A touch inductive unit includes a receiving electrode pattern and a driving electrode pattern. The receiving electrode pattern includes a first main stem, a first branch portion and a second branch portion. The first branch portion and the second branch portion are extended from the first main stem. The driving electrode pattern includes a second main stem, a third branch portion and a fourth branch portion. The third branch portion and the fourth branch portion are extended from the second main stem. The receiving electrode pattern and the driving electrode pattern are interdigitated and physically spaced apart from each other. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140339063 | Method And Apparatus Pertaining To A Keyboard Cover Having Light-Masking Paint - A keyboard cover comprises non-opaque material and has a periphery and a plurality of key-cap receiving apertures formed therethrough to receive the various keycaps of a corresponding keyboard. By one approach the keyboard cover includes side walls disposed along the aforementioned periphery thereof, which side walls extend outwardly from the inner surface of the keyboard cover. The keyboard cover has light-masking paint disposed on only an inner surface thereof and only towards the periphery thereof By one approach the light-masking paint comprises black-colored paint. This light-masking paint can extend inwardly of the keyboard cover from the periphery thereof no further than, for example, twenty percent of the available distance. When the keyboard cover includes the aforementioned side walls, the light-masking paint can also be disposed on the inner surfaces of those side walls. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140339064 | KEYSWITCH AND KEYBOARD THEREWITH - A key switch disposed on a base of a keyboard includes a key cap, a linkage bar, an edge plate and a recess portion. The key cap is disposed above the base. The linkage bar connects the key cap and the base. The edge plate is connected to the base. A slot is formed on the edge plate, and an end of the linkage bar is slidably latched in the slot. The recess portion is formed on the base and adjacent to the slot. A step is between a holding surface of the recess portion and a top surface of the base. The end of the linkage bar is caved in the recess portion and held on the holding surface of the recess portion when the end of the linkage bar is slidably latched in the slot. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140339065 | KEYSWITCH DEVICE AND KEYBOARD - A keyswitch device which is provided with a support mechanism which supports a keytop in a movable manner, and a membrane sheet which has a plurality of upper electrodes and a plurality of lower electrodes which respectively correspond to the plurality of the upper electrodes and which form contact pairs with the corresponding upper electrodes. A plurality of contact pairs are arranged for a single keytop. The rubber cup pushes the plurality of contact pairs which are arranged for the single keytop. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140346024 | OPERATING KEY AND OPERATING DEVICE - An operating key includes a recessed portion on a top surface thereof, and the recessed portion includes a bottom surface and wall surfaces. A graphic is configured with paint on the bottom surface, and the graphic is circumscribed by at least a portion of the wall surfaces. | 11-27-2014 |
| 20140353134 | MECHANICALLY LOCKABLE HAND SWITCH - A switch for controlling a control circuit or an operating current of electric-motors in linear gear drives includes: a switch casing, having at least an upper part including keys, and a lower part for forming a receiving space; a circuit board incorporated in the receiving space with micro-switches including a switch casing and a spring-biased push-rod therein; wherein, when the keys are actuated by a user, the push rod actuates the micro-switch to control a control circuit or operating current, and wherein the switch contains at least one locking element, transferable between a locking position, which locks the keys, and a release position, which releases the keys. To prevent damage to a switch from pressure forces during actuation, the locking device is formed such that the pressure applied to the key is transferred onto the switch casing and/or the circuit board plate over as wide an area as possible. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140367237 | SWITCH ASSEMBLY FOR A MOBILE DEVICE - A switch assembly for an electronic device comprises a switch mount and a keycap. The switch mount has a slide switch with a slide switch base and a slide switch actuator. The keycap is positionable for slidable movement relative to the switch mount and is coupleable to the slide switch actuator. The keycap has an exposed portion slidable by a user between at least a first position and a second position to execute a first control function. The keycap is depressible in at least one of the first and second positions to execute a second control function. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140367238 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD DEVICE - A luminous keyboard device includes a keypad module, a supporting plate, a light-mixing type light-emitting element, a first light guide plate, and a second light guide plate. The supporting plate has a partition part. By the partition part, a first color light beam and a second color light beam from the light-mixing type light-emitting element are not mixed with each other. The first color light beam is guided by the first light guide plate to a first light-outputting zone and a third light-outputting zone of the keypad module. The second color light beam is guided by the second light guide plate to a second light-outputting zone and the third light-outputting zone of the keypad module. The first color light beam and the second color light beam projected on the third light-outputting zone are mixed as a third color light beam. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140367239 | CAPACITIVE KEYPAD POSITION SENSOR WITH LOW CROSS-INTERFERENCE - A capacitive keypad position sensor includes a keypad touch panel having a first defined key area disposed in a plane having first and second orthogonal axes. First and second electrodes respectively occupy first and second areas below the first defined key area. Each electrode includes a plurality of parallel rows extending along the first axis and spaced apart from one another along the second axis. Each of the plurality of rows has a length along the first axis that is substantially equal to a width of the first defined key area along the first axis measured at a position along the second axis corresponding to the respective one of the plurality of rows. At least some of the first and second pluralities of rows are interleaved with one another. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140367240 | KEYSWITCH AND KEYBOARD THEREWITH - A key switch disposed on a base of a keyboard is disclosed. The key switch includes a key cap, an edge plate, a linkage bar and a sliding end. The key cap is disposed above the base. The edge plate is connected to the base, and a slot is formed on the edge plate. The linkage bar is for connecting the keycap and the base. The sliding end is connected to an end of the linkage bar, and the sliding end is slidably disposed in the slot and abuts against a top surface of the base, wherein a cross section area of the sliding end is smaller than a cross section area of the end of the linkage bar. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140367241 | Keyboard Design - Embodiments of a backlit keyboard assembly are described. A keycap assembly is mounted into a case web having intersecting ribs. A flange, which can be angled, is on the bottom perimeter of the keycap and a correspondingly shaped flange is on each rib of the case web. An overlap of the keycap flange and the case web flanges prevents direct sighting of the backlight light source and also provides a more evenly distributed halo around the keycap, thereby improving both aesthetics and functionality by providing better light control and contrast. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140374230 | PRESSURE SENSITIVE KEYS WITH A SINGLE-SIDED DIRECT CONDUCTION SENSOR - The present disclosure describes pressure sensitive keys with a single-sided direct conduction sensor that includes a sensor substrate, a conductive layer formed on an underside of a contact layer, and a force sensing layer formed on the underside of the contact layer substantially surrounding the conductive layer. The contact layer, the conductive layer, and the force sensing layer are configured to cooperatively flex in response to an application of pressure to contact the sensor substrate. | 12-25-2014 |
| 20150008111 | KEYPAD - A keypad including a keypad housing an array of data entry key assemblies mounted in the keypad housing, each of the data entry key assemblies being designated by at least two indices and including at least two mutually electrically insulated electrical contacts, each electrical contact being identified by one of the at least two indices and an electrically conductive element which, when depressed, is electrically coupled to the at least two mutually electrically insulated electrical contacts and an electrical circuit coupled to the array of data entry key assemblies, sensing a voltage state of specific ones of the at least two mutually electrically insulated electrical contacts, identified by specific ones of the indices, caused by depression of a specific electrically conductive element and indicating by the at least two indices the identity of a specific one of the data entry key assemblies which is actuated. | 01-08-2015 |
| 20150008112 | HYBRID KEYPAD APPARATUS - Hybrid keypad apparatus are disclosed herein. An example dome sheet carrier apparatus disclosed herein includes a first carrier portion having a first plurality of domes and a second carrier portion adjacent the first carrier portion. The second carrier portion has a second plurality of domes different than the first plurality of domes, where each of the second plurality of domes has a conductive material adjacent an apex of the second plurality of domes. | 01-08-2015 |
| 20150014134 | SELECTABLE WINDOW SWITCH CONTROLLER - A vehicle window control panel for controlling a plurality of vehicle window assemblies comprises a common window control switch and a plurality of selector interfaces. The common window control switch is configured for controlling operation of a window assembly when the window assembly occupies an active state. The plurality of selector interfaces is electrically coupled to the common window control switch, and each of the plurality of selector interfaces is associated with an associated window assembly and configured for selectively coupling the associated window assembly to the common window control switch so as to cause the associated window assembly to occupy an active state. Each of the plurality of selector interfaces is also configured for selectively decoupling the associated window assembly from the common window control switch so as to cause the associated window assembly to occupy an inactive state. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150014135 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD - An illuminated keyboard comprises a fixing sheet, a membrane switch circuit module, a supporting plate, a light guide plate, a sensing circuit, a sensing chip, a light-emitting element, and an illumination circuit board. The sensing circuit is formed on the fixing sheet or the membrane switch circuit module. The sensing chip and the light-emitting element are disposed on the illumination circuit board. In addition, the sensing chip is accommodated within corresponding openings of the fixing sheet, the membrane switch circuit module, the supporting plate and the light guide plate. The illuminated keyboard uses the sensing circuit and the sensing chip to sense the presence of an object. Since the illuminated keyboard does not need an additional space to accommodate the sensing circuit and the sensing chip, the illuminated keyboard can meet the requirement of slimness. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150014136 | POINTING STICK CURSOR KEY AND ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD THEREWITH - The illuminated keyboard includes a base plate, a backlight module, a plurality of input keys and a mask layer. The backlight module and the plurality of input keys are disposed on opposite sides of the base plate. The mask layer is disposed between the base plate and the backlight module. A pointing stick cursor key includes a holding structure, an opening and a masking portion. The holding structure with a hole is disposed on the base plate. The opening is formed on the mask layer in a position corresponding to the holding structure. The holding structure is extended into the backlight module via the opening. The at least one masking portion is connected to a periphery of the opening for bendably attaching against the holding structure for covering the hole when the holding structure is extended into the backlight module via the opening. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150014137 | INPUT TECHNOLOGIES - A device is provided. The device includes a first T-shaped structure defined via a first leg and a first platform. The device further includes a key cap with an interior open chamber. The cap is mounted onto the first structure such that the chamber contains the first platform. The device also includes a second T-shaped structure defined via a second leg and a second platform. The first leg vertically moves within the second leg such that the cap travels between a depressed position and a pressed position. The cap is raised above the second platform in the depressed position. The cap is in contact with the second platform in the pressed position. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150021151 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD - A luminous keyboard includes a light-emitting element, a proximity sensor, a membrane wiring board, and plural keys. The plural keys are aligned with the plural membrane switches for triggering the plural membrane switches. The light-emitting element is used for providing a light beam to the luminous keyboard. The membrane wiring board has a receiving part for accommodating a signal processing unit of the proximity sensor. In accordance with the present invention, a sensing unit and the signal processing unit of the proximity sensor are used for sensing whether an object is locate near the illuminated keyboard or not. Since the signal processing unit of the proximity sensor is accommodated within the receiving part, it is not necessary to provide an additional accommodation space for accommodating the proximity sensor. Consequently, the luminous keyboard can meet the requirements of slimness and miniaturization. | 01-22-2015 |
| 20150021152 | KEYBOARD - A keyboard includes multiple key tops that are arranged adjacent to each other, a panel member including a crosspiece part formed between the multiple key-tops, and a cover part that covers a space between the plurality of key tops and the panel member. | 01-22-2015 |
| 20150027869 | KEYSWITCH, KEYBOARD AND RELATED FORCE FEEDBACK METHOD - A keyswitch with force feedback function includes a vibrating source, a switching circuit and a controller. The vibrating source is connected to a cap of the keyswitch. The switching circuit is switched on according to states of the keyswitch. The controller is electrically connected to the vibrating source and the switching circuit. When the switching circuit is switched on, the controller outputs a first driving signal to the vibrating source, and the vibrating source transmits a pressing vibration to the cap of the keyswitch. A period of the first driving signal is smaller than or equal to a predetermined period, a user can feel vibration of the keyswitch due to the pressing vibration. | 01-29-2015 |
| 20150034467 | KEYCAP MODULE FABRICATED BY INTEGRATED INJECTION - A keycap module fabricated by integrated injection includes a support frame which has a plurality of interlaced rims to define a plurality of keycap installation apertures. Each keycap installation aperture holds a keycap which has four sides and four corners. Each side of the keycap and each rim of the support frame have respectively a first wall and a second wall bridged by a movable arm. The keycaps, movable arms and support frame are integrally formed by injection. Each movable arm has a fist connecting section connected to one corner of the keycap and a second connecting section connected to the first connecting section at a first bend spot. The second connecting section is extended towards a neighboring corner of the keycap and connected to one rim of the support frame. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150034468 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD EQUIPPED WITH A THIN KEY MODULE - An illuminated keyboard is equipped with a thin key module which includes a support frame with multiple keycap installation apertures and multiple keycaps corresponding to the keycap installation apertures. Each keycap has at least three movable arms each is connected between the first wall of one side of the keycap and the second wall of the keycap installation aperture. The support frame, keycaps and movable arms are integrally formed by injection. The movable arm has a first connecting section connected to the keycap and a second connecting section connected to the first connecting section at a first bend spot. The second connecting section is extended between the keycap and support frame and connected to the keycap installation aperture. In the illuminated keyboard, light is generated by a lighting unit and transmitted through a light guide plate or light guide circuit board to project to the keycaps for illumination. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150034469 | FORMABLE INPUT KEYPAD AND DISPLAY DEVICE USING THE SAME - A formable input keypad includes: an electroactive polymer (EAP) layer having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; a first conductive electrode pattern defining outlines of user input keys at the first surface of the EAP layer; and a second conductive electrode pattern at the second surface of the EAP layer. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150034470 | KEYBOARD DEVICE - Provided is a keyboard device including a key top that is arranged in an opening of a cover member and is depressible, a first magnet that is provided in the key top, and a support section that includes a second magnet, to which the first magnet is attracted, and supports the key top. The support section supports the key top to move in a moving direction intersecting with a height direction of the key top, between a first position where the first magnet is attracted to the second magnet and a second position where the attraction by pressing is released. The key top has an inclined surface formed at an edge along the moving direction. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150034471 | KEYBOARD HAVING TACTILE FEEDBACK - A keyboard capable of generating a tactile feedback signal makes use of acceleration change of pressing behavior and releasing behavior of a physical keyswitch during pressing and releasing stages. The acceleration change is modulated according to a touch sensitive frequency response in various ways so that a simulated tactile feedback may be generated on the keyswitches of the keyboard. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150041298 | SWITCH AND KEYBOARD PROVIDED THEREWITH - A switch comprising: a cover; a base; and a push button comprising: an elastic touch piece formed in a sidewall of a sliding part of the push button, wherein the push button is vertically and slidably installed in a space formed by assembling the cover to the base, wherein a free end of the elastic touch piece is configured to abut the base when the push button is pushed, and the free end is configured to abut the cover when the pushed push button is returned. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150041299 | OPERATING DEVICE FOR VEHICLE - This operating device for a vehicle includes: a holding portion provided at a steering wheel of the vehicle and adapted to be held by an operator; a first operation member provided on a surface of the holding portion, the first operation member having a first operating surface that is operatable by a finger of the operator through a contact operation and through a tilting operation; and a second operation member provided at a central portion of the first operating surface, the second operation member having a second operating surface that is operatable by the finger of the operator through a contact operation and through a pressing operation, wherein the first operating surface has an annular concave shape with the central portion being furthest recessed to an inside. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150041300 | INPUT DEVICE - An input device having a touch sensor installed on a push switch includes a first detection unit for detecting a first predetermined operation on the push switch, a second detection unit for detecting a second predetermined operation on the touch sensor, and a control unit for invalidating the second predetermined operation when the second predetermined operation is detected by the second detection unit within a predetermined time after detection of the first predetermined operation by the first detection unit. For example, the device is disposed on a spoke unit that is operable by a driver's thumb while the driver grips a steering wheel. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150060250 | KEYBOARD DEVICE - There is provided a keyboard device including a plurality of key tops that include magnets and are depressible, an opposing member which is provided to face the plurality of key tops and in which signal lines are wired, and a plurality of openings that is formed corresponding to positions of the magnets when the key tops are pressed in the opposing member. The signal lines are wired while avoiding the openings. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150068880 | OPERATING DEVICE - An operating device includes a push operation mechanism including an operating portion to be push-operated, a tactile presenting means that drives the operating portion, a detecting portion for detecting movement of the operating portion, and a drive control unit that drives the driving portion by a drive control signal and a main vibration pulse signal output after outputting the drive control signal, the drive control signal being generated based on a start pulse signal and a pre-vibration pulse signal. The drive control unit sets a mask time to invalidate a detection signal of the detecting portion in a certain period when the drive control signal is output and switches from the output of the drive control signal to the output of the main vibration pulse signal based on a detection signal of the detecting portion after an elapse of the mask time. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150075957 | HIGH VOLTAGE CONTROL WITH DIGITAL MEMS LOGIC - A complex logic gate comprising digital MEM switches, coupled to a high voltage MEMS buffer, to provide a high voltage depending upon gate and body voltages of the digital MEM switches. | 03-19-2015 |
| 20150083564 | Arrangement of pushbutton switches with a programmable display - The present invention concerns to an arrangement of pushbutton switches with a programmable display, having a support structure comprising, attached to one another:
| 03-26-2015 |
| 20150090569 | OPERATION KEY ASSEMBLY - An operation key assembly facilitates operation of a plurality of keys disposed in a mutually adjacent manner and facilitates operation by simultaneously operating the keys. The operation multi-direction key assembly includes a plurality of direction keys disposed in a mutually adjacent manner. In the operation key assembly, the plurality of keys can be singly operated or the mutually adjacent keys can be simultaneously operated. On an upper surface of an operation portion of the key, protrusions are formed in at least one part of a portion facing the adjacent key. By touching one key with the fingertip on the protrusion, the key can be singly operated on the basis of the touch of the finger. By simultaneously operating two mutually adjacent keys by simultaneously touching the protrusions of the two keys, the two mutually adjacent keys can be simultaneously operated on the basis of the touch of the finger. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150090570 | KEYCAPS WITH REDUCED THICKNESS - An illuminated metal keycap having a legend diffuser material that may diffuse light through a legend opened in a background layer. The background layer may be opaque and the legend may be transparent. The metal keycap is adhered to a scissor mechanism positioned above electrical switch circuitry. Included within, below, or adjacent to the scissor mechanism may be one or more light sources positioned to emit light through the metal keycap, around the perimeter of the metal keycap, and/or through the background layer. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150090571 | KEYCAPS HAVING REDUCED THICKNESS - An illuminated glass keycap having a glyph diffuser layer that may diffuse light through a glyph window opened in a background layer. The background layer may be opaque and the glyph window may be transparent. The keycap is adhered to a scissor mechanism positioned above electrical switch circuitry. Included within, below, or adjacent to the scissor mechanism may be one or more light sources positioned to emit light through the keycap, around the perimeter of the keycap, and/or through the background layer. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150101916 | KEY MODULE AND KEYBOARD HAVING THE SAME - A key module and a keyboard having the key module are provided. The key module includes a base, a scissor-type unit and a keycap. The scissor-type unit has a first frame and a second frame. The first frame has a connection shaft rotatably pivotally connected to a shaft hole of the second frame. The shaft hole has a travel distance therein for the shaft to move within the shaft hole along a predetermined direction. The first and second frames respectively have a first side pivotally connected to a pivot connection unit of the key cap, and a second side slidably connected to a restricting unit of the base. Through the above-mentioned design, the first frame can rotate with respect to the second frame, so that the keycap can move up and down with respect to the base. | 04-16-2015 |
| 20150101917 | MAGNETIC KEYSWITCH AND RELATED KEYBOARD - A magnetic keyswitch includes a base, a keycap, a curved supporter, a bracket and a second magnetic portion. The keycap moves relative to the base upwardly and downwardly. The curved supporter is disposed between the keycap and the base and has a first end and a second end. A first magnetic portion is disposed on the first end. The bracket slides relative to the base and is switched between a first position and a second position. The second magnetic portion is disposed on the bracket. An attractive force is generated between the second magnetic portion and the first end when the bracket is located at the first position, so that the second end supports the keycap at a first height. The attractive force is removed when the bracket moves to the second position, and the keycap is descended to a second height by an external force. | 04-16-2015 |
| 20150101918 | LEVER SWITCH - A lever switch has a base member, a first switch knob member, a first moderation mechanism, a substrate having a first contact member, and a first slider. The base member has a first supporting surface formed along an outer peripheral surface of a column centered on a rotational axis of the first switch knob member and a second supporting surface formed on one side across the rotational axis. The first switch knob member includes a first supported surface and a second supported surface, and the second supported surface is provided with a first cam portion. The first supported surface is rotatably supported on the first supporting surface, the second supported surface is rotatably supported on the second supporting surface, and the first slider is held on a side opposite to a side where the second supporting surface is provided across the rotational axis. | 04-16-2015 |
| 20150107974 | KEYBOARD EQUIPPED WITH LIGHT EMITTING STRUCTURE - A keyboard equipped with light emitting structure comprises a plurality of keycap portions and a light guide command circuit board which includes an upper light guide plate, a lower light guide plate and a middle plate located between the upper and lower light guide plates. The upper and lower light guide plates have respectively an upper trigger portion and a lower trigger portion at one side facing the middle plate. The middle plate has a hollow zone corresponding to the upper and lower trigger portions, a plurality of coupling portions corresponding to the keycap portion and a plurality of apertures. The upper light guide plate also has an upper mask layer at one side facing the keycap portion and having a transparent zone. The command circuit board receives light from a light emitting unit and transmits the light to illuminate the keycap portion through the transparent zone. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150107975 | ILLUMINATED KEYBOARD - An illuminated keyboard includes at least one light-emitting element, a membrane switch circuit module, plural keys, a fixing plate, and a proximity sensor. The fixing plate includes plural openings, plural joining regions, and plural fixing regions. The plural fixing regions are arranged between the plural openings for fixing plural elastic elements of the plural keys. The proximity sensor includes an induction antenna circuit. The induction antenna circuit is formed on the plural joining regions or the plural fixing regions of the fixing plate for sensing whether an object enters a sensing range. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150107976 | RETRACTABLE SNAP DOMES - A retractable snap dome in a keyboard, serving as a force resistor for a key in a conventional manner, includes an additional collapsed state wherein the key can be retracted by an electromechanical polymer (EMP) actuator to a persistent down position. In one embodiment, the EMP actuator is a bimorph EMP actuator that can be actuated to bring the key from down position to up position, ready for conventional keyboard operation, and vice versa. Such operations allow the keyboard to have a desirable decreased thickness relative to conventional keyboards. Thus, a keyboard of the present invention finds application in ultra-slim electronic devices. When provided in a notebook computer wherein the keyboard is folded against a video or graphic display, the keyboard keys may be placed in the retracted down position, thereby preventing the keys from pressing against the video or graphical display with a force that may damage the display. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150114813 | KEYBOARD - A keyboard includes a membrane switch circuit module, a metallic supporting plate, plural keys, an induction antenna assembly, and a signal processing unit. The induction antenna assembly includes a first partition plate, a second partition plate and an antenna layer. The first partition plate is arranged between the metallic supporting plate and the keycap of a specified key. The second partition plate is connected with the first partition plate and arranged between the first partition plate and the keycap of the specified key. The antenna layer is arranged between the first partition plate and the second partition plate. The signal processing unit is electrically connected with the antenna layer. When the antenna layer senses that an object enters the sensing range, the signal processing unit issues a sensing signal. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150114814 | PRESSURE-SENSITIVE SWITCH, MANUFACTURING METHOD FOR SAME, TOUCH PANEL INCLUDING PRESSURE-SENSITIVE SWITCH, AND MANUFACTURING METHOD FOR TOUCH PANEL - The present disclosure relates to a pressure-sensitive switch including a support substrate, a conductive structure provided on the support substrate, and an electrode unit disposed to face the support substrate with the conductive structure interposed therebetween. The conductive structure includes an elastic component extending to protrude from the support substrate toward the electrode unit, and an electrode layer covering the elastic component. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150122621 | Controller-Less Quick Tactile Feedback Keyboard - In some examples, techniques are provided for quick haptic feedback, without the use of a controller, which is local to individual, non-actuating keys, such as keys of a thin keyboard or keypad. The haptic feedback may be in the form of a simulated “key-click” feedback for an individual key that is pressed by a user such that the finger used to press the key feels the tactile sensation. The haptic feedback mimics the tactile sensation of a mechanical key (e.g., buckling spring, pop-dome key switch) to give a user the perception that they have actuated a mechanically movable key. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150122622 | KEYBOARD DEVICE AND KEY FABRICATING METHOD FOR KEYBOARD DEVICE - A keyboard device includes an upper cover, an elastic key plate, a switch module, and a base plate. The upper cover includes plural openings. The elastic key plate is disposed on an inner surface of the upper cover. The elastic key plate includes plural elastic keys. The plural elastic keys are inserted into the plural openings of the upper cover and exposed outside the upper cover. The elastic key plate is integrally formed with the upper cover. There are no gaps between the plural elastic keys and the openings of the upper cover. Since dust or foreign liquid cannot be introduced into the inner portion of the keyboard device, the inner circuitries of the keyboard device will not be damaged by the dust or the foreign liquid. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150129406 | KEYBOARD DEVICE - A keyboard device includes a base seat, a circuit board including a plurality of switches, a press key membrane connected to a periphery of the base seat to forma sealed space to enclose the circuit board therein, and a plurality of resilient members. The press key membrane includes a plurality of protrusion units defining a plurality of press zones on the press key membrane. Each of the resilient members is disposed between the press key membrane and a respective one of the switches for deforming to close the respective one of the switches when a respective one of the press zones is pressed and for restoring to open the respective one of the switches when the respective one of the press zone is released. | 05-14-2015 |
| 20150129407 | Two-Shot Injection Molded Housing with Seats for Keycaps in User-Interface - A device has a housing with a top part that accommodates one or more pressable keys forming the user-interface of the device. Each specific key has a specific keycap. The top part is formed from a harder plastic element and a softer rubber layer in a two-shot injection molding process. The harder plastic element has one or more openings occupied by the softer rubber layer. The harder plastic element has a specific pin positioned in a specific hole of the softer rubber layer. The specific keycap has a bottom face with a specific protruding sleeve configured for engaging with the specific pin. The bottom face of the specific key and an area at a top face of the softer rubber layer have complimentarily shaped profiles configured for accurately orienting the keycap relative to the top part. | 05-14-2015 |
| 20150136576 | FIVE-DIRECTION SWITCH BASE STRUCTURE - A five-direction switch base structure includes a bottom rest, four base components, and two outer covers. A self-luminous push switch is centrally selectively disposed at the bottom. rest. The base components each have one side selectively disposed with a self-luminous tactile switch and another side corresponding in position to four sides of the bottom rest so as to be inserted into and fixed to the bottom rest to therefore form a base structural body. The two outer covers cover the self-luminous push switch from above such that, after the base components have been coupled together to form the base structural body, the base structural body and the self-luminous push switch are fixed to each other to form two connection layers. Hence, the base structural body comprising the bottom rest and the base components enables switch installation to take place in five directions, namely forward, backward, leftward, rightward, and upward. | 05-21-2015 |
| 20150295576 | HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE COMPRISING A TOUCH BUTTON - The present invention relates to a household appliance ( | 10-15-2015 |
| 20150311014 | Pressure Sensitive Key Normalization - Pressure sensitive key techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a device includes at least one pressure sensitive key having a flexible contact layer spaced apart from a sensor substrate by a spacer layer, the flexible contact layer configured to flex responsive to pressure to contact the sensor substrate to initiate an input, for a computing device, associated with the pressure sensitive key. At least one of the flexible contact layer or the sensor substrate are configured to at least partially normalize an output resulting from pressure applied at a first location of the flexible contact layer with an output resulting from pressure applied at a second location of the flexible contact layer that has lesser flexibility than the first location. | 10-29-2015 |
| 20150332874 | BACKLIT KEYBOARD INCLUDING REFLECTIVE COMPONENT - A backlit keyboard including a metal reflective component. The backlit keyboard may include a top case, and a plurality of keys positioned adjacent a membrane. The plurality of keys may be positioned within the top case. The keyboard may also include a metal feature plate positioned adjacent to the membrane, and a light guide positioned adjacent the metal feature plate. The backlit keyboard may also include a light source positioned on a portion of the light guide. Additionally, the keyboard may include a metal reflective component positioned adjacent the light guide. The metal reflective component may be coupled to the top case, or the metal feature plate. The reflective component may form a substantially rigid end layer, that may provide structural support to at least a portion of the layers included in the backlit keyboard. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150340176 | KEYBOARD HAVING TOUCH MODE AND CHARACTER MODE AND METHOD FOR OPERATING THE SAME - The present invention is a keyboard having a touch mode and a character mode. The keyboard includes a circuit board having multiple through holes, a plurality of elastic portions disposed on the circuit board, a plurality of key caps being arrayed and adjacent to each other and a plurality of supporting structures. The key caps define a plurality of character buttons and at least one switching button, and the keyboard enters the touching mode or the character mode by activating the switching button. In the touch mode, the adjacent character buttons allow to be touched and pressed to make the circuit board to output a touch or a sliding signal. In the character mode, each character button is touched and pressed to make the circuit board to output character signal from the circuit board. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150340177 | KEYPAD SHIELD FOR ELECTRONIC TERMINAL KEYPAD AND CORRESPONDING ELECTRONIC TERMINAL - A keypad shield for a keypad of an electronic payment terminal includes at least one key, called an externalized key. The externalized key enables activation of at least one corresponding key of the keypad. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150364276 | OPTICALLY TRANSMISSIVE KEY SWITCH MECHANISM FOR DISPLAY-CAPABLE KEYBOARDS, KEYPADS, OR OTHER USER INPUT DEVICES - Key switch mechanisms are typically used for mediating user input to computing devices. A key switch mechanism provides immediate tactile feedback to a user upon user-actuation thereof. Unlike touchscreen interfaces, existing key switch mechanisms of conventional keyboards do not provide a user with a dynamically changeable interface. Described is a key switch mechanism that comprises a circuit module, a key cap and a linkage mechanism for guiding travel of the key cap substantially along a travel axis. The linkage mechanism comprises a positioning board and a main link pivotably inter-coupling the positioning board and the key cap. The main link substantially impedes tilt of the key cap away from the travel axis during travel of the key cap therealong from a released position, whereat the key cap is biased, to a depressed position whereat a control signal is generated. | 12-17-2015 |
| 20160005557 | PUSH BUTTON KEYBOARD DEVICE - A keyboard device is disclosed. The keyboard device includes a base, a key top, a film actuator, a position sensor, and a controller. The key top is movably arranged on the upper surface side of the base. Disposed between the base and the key top, the film actuator bends according to an applied voltage. Also disposed between the base and the key top, the position sensor detects a position of the key top. The controller applies a voltage to the film actuator in order to generate a repulsive force corresponding to the position of the key top detected by the position sensor. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160006436 | AUTOMATION KEYPAD WITH TRANSPARENT BUTTONS - A unitary transparent/translucent button element with UV ink curable graphics directly printed thereon having a sensing circuit that detects touch gestures made on or in front of the transparent element directly through an illuminating Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting layer. Engraved markings help a user to identify the corresponding key function. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160012987 | Household Electrical Appliance Control Panel and Method of Manufacturing Such a Control Panel | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160013790 | Method For Forming A Sensor Electrode For A Capacitive Sensor Device | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160027596 | VEHICLE SWITCH DEVICE - Provided is a vehicle switch device capable of preventing an operating error while improving the operability. A power window switch device | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160027597 | INPUT DEVICE AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT - An input device includes a housing which has an opening, button parts which are exposed from the opening and which are pressed down in a first direction, a support component which has a support part to support the button parts, a first surface to face the housing, a second surface provided opposite to the first surface, and fixation parts provided at a first distance from the support part and fixed to the housing on a side of the first surface, a substrate which is provided so as to face the second surface of the support component, and a component which is inserted into the substrate in the first direction and which presses a specified area of the second surface, positioned at a second distance shorter than the first distance from the support part, toward the housing in a direction opposite to the first direction. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160035515 | SINGLE ACTUATOR CONTROL SWITCH - A control switch includes a key, a housing structure, in the upper portion of which the key is secured in a manner such that the key can rotate about a first fulcrum. A tip is secured at one end to the key and moving integrally therewith, so as to slide along a first axis (X) of the key is countered by an elastic element. A printed circuit board includes at least two push-buttons, arranged in the lower portion of the housing structure. The housing structure includes in its internal portion, a flared structure having two inclined contact planes specularly opposite with respect to a second vertical axis (Z) and forming a first obtuse angle (a), on which the tip can slide along its stroke. The flared structure is structurally secured to the housing structure. The switch includes at least one actuator positioned in proximity to the flared structure. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160035516 | KEYBOARD BACKLIGHT SYSTEM - Disclosed systems provide keyboard backlighting from organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) placed under the keys. A keyboard stack optionally includes a light guide or reflector. A single OLED can illuminate multiple keys through a light guide. OLEDs used for backlighting may be arranged in a strip to illuminate more than one key. OLEDs can be deposited directly to the light guide or reflector, and can include a seal to promote air stability. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160042886 | SWITCHING DEVICE AND RELATED SWITCHGEAR - An exemplary switching device connects and disconnects a power line to and from, respectively, at least an associated electrical load. The switching device includes at least one phase of the switching device having a housing that includes a movable contact configured to be coupled to and separated from a corresponding fixed contact, wherein the at least one phase of the switching device includes an electrically semiconducting assembly having an insulating support operatively associated with a plurality of semiconductor devices, wherein the plurality of semiconductor devices are connected in series and are electrically connected to said fixed contact and to said movable contact, and wherein the semiconducting assembly is configured to be installed into the housing to surround at least a portion of at least one of said fixed contact the movable contact when it is coupled to the fixed contact. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160042890 | KEY STRUCTURE AND KEYBOARD MODULE - A key structure includes a switch circuit, an elastic member and a press unit. The switch circuit includes a predetermined press area. The elastic member is disposed on the predetermined press area of the switch circuit. The press unit is disposed on the elastic member and includes a flexible membrane and a plate. A part of the flexible membrane forms a press zone corresponding to the plate, wherein a position of the press zone is corresponding to a position of the elastic member, and the plate is fixed with the press zone. As one corner of the press zone is pressed, a corner of the plate moves downward accordingly while an opposite corner of the plate is limited by the flexible membrane from moving upward, such that the whole plate and the whole press zone move downward together to press the elastic member uniformly and trigger the switch circuit. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160049266 | FABRIC KEYBOARD - An input device, such as a keyboard, includes one or more keys that each includes a keycap operable to move within an aperture of a frame to activate a switch and fabric disposed over the frame and keycap. A first region of the fabric is bonded to the keycap and a second region of the fabric is bonded to the frame. The first region may be an embossed region and the second region may be an unembossed region. The fabric may dampen sound from within the keyboard, such as noise related to movement of the keycap, activation of the switch, and so on. The fabric may also form a barrier that restricts passage of contaminants into the aperture and/or other portions of the input device. | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160055991 | PORTABLE ELECTRONIC USER DEVICE - A portable electronic user device, in the form of an electronic key, having an inherently rigid button for activation by a user. The portable electronic user device further has a flexibly deformable membrane including a first side having at least one support section on which the at least one button is supported via the plunger, and an actuating section, separate from the at least one support section, for receiving and forwarding an actuation of the button to an electrical switch element. There is a rigid frame which bears the membrane on a second side opposite the first side, wherein, in the assembled state, having the membrane in the region of the at least one support section, the frame has at least one breakout, via which the membrane is moveable by the plunger upon activating the at least one button and, in dependence on the size and/or the shape of the breakout, provides a force for resetting the button. As a result of the separation of the generating of the reset force on the support sections movable by the first breakouts and the switch function in the region of the activation section, there is great freedom in the design of the portable electronic user device, wherein reliable triggering of the switch element is always ensured. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160059924 | HANDLEBAR-MOUNTED SWITCH DEVICE FOR A SADDLE-TYPE VEHICLE, AND VEHICLE INCLUDING SAME - A handlebar-mounted switch control device includes switch activation buttons which respectively correspond to specific switches, and which are arranged on surfaces of a switch case adjacent to a grip in an end portion of a handlebar. Two switch activation buttons are disposed on a front outer surface of the switch case. The two switch activation buttons are configured and placed in such a way so that a rider can easily recognize which of the two switch activation buttons the rider touches. The second switch activation button is placed above the first switch activation button, and inward of the first switch activation button in a vehicle width direction. A guide surface inclining to extend inward in the vehicle width direction toward an upper side is formed on a side surface of the switch case which is above the first switch activation button, and which faces the grip. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160064166 | SWITCH WITH USER FEEDBACK - A switch includes a substrate that has a contact area on a first face. At least one first conductor is located in the substrate and extends onto the contact area. At least one second conductor is located in the substrate and extends onto the contact area. A sensor is configured to detect when a user contacts the contact area. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160071665 | PUSH SWITCH AND SWITCH MODULE - Provided are a switch module and a push switch that have a soft sensation when pressed. A push switch and a switch module have a substrate, a first fixed contact point disposed on the substrate surface, a second fixed contact point disposed around the first fixed contact point on the substrate surface, a convex dome-shaped upper spring disposed on the substrate surface so that an end part is in contact with the second fixed contact point, the upper spring being pressed so as to invert the dome shape and to establish conduction between the first fixed contact point and the second fixed contact point, and a lower spring disposed below the upper spring, the lower spring adjusting the operation load applied to the upper spring during inversion of the dome shape. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160071666 | Keyboard and Assembly Method Thereof - The invention provides a keyboard and an assembly method thereof. The keyboard comprises a face frame, a multi-link keycap board, a metal shrapnel, a flexible circuit board and a backplane connected successively, the multi-link keycap board is of integrated self-balancing multi-link structure, and multiple keycaps are fixedly arranged on the multi-link structure, the metal shrapnel is of integrated structure, and arc-shaped obstacles are respectively arranged at the corresponding positions of the keycaps, thus realizing the advantages of thin product thickness, good hand feeling, low production cost and high assembly efficiency. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160079012 | KEYBOARD EQUIPPED WITH MULTIPOINT PRESS POSITIONS - A keyboard equipped with multipoint press positions comprises at least a baseboard, a keycap assembly and a command trigger assembly. The keycap assembly includes a support frame to hold a plurality of keycaps. The command trigger assembly includes a command circuit board and a plurality of elastic switches. The command circuit board includes a plurality of trigger portions corresponding to the keycaps and triggered by the keycaps, and at least one primary command circuit electrically connected to each trigger portion. The elastic switches are corresponding to and depressible by the keycaps to trigger the trigger portions. Each elastic switch includes a base and a primary movement portion, a first secondary movement portion and a second secondary movement portion that are respectively corresponding to a primary trigger switch and at least two secondary trigger switches of the trigger portions. The keyboard thus formed can provide higher press sensitivity. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160093455 | KEY SWITCH DEVICE AND KEYBOARD - A key switch device includes: a key top that includes an operating surface; a pair of link members that is interlocked with each other to move the key top upward and downward; a frame member that includes a leg portion extending downward and a flange portion provided at an end of the leg portion, and pivotably supports the pair of the link members; and a support plate that includes a through hole through which the leg portion and the flange portion penetrate, and a projection portion projecting upwardly from a part of an outer periphery of the through hole toward an inside of the through hole. | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160111232 | Tamper Resistant Rugged Keypad - A tamper-resistant or tamper-evident keypad device for use in secure transactions. The keypad comprises multiple security mechanisms to prevent tampering to the device, and thus access to users' private information. The keypad is made of resilient materials and contains a tamper-resistant collar for housing the keypad's connector interface. The keypad comprises a multi-layered printed circuit board with at least two internal security-shield layers comprising switch trace protection, as well as additional security layers for tamper protection. The keypad comprises a silicon-rubber keypad actuator that engages tamper switches on the flexible security circuit. The keypad comprises metal discs mounted on the front or rear face of the flexible circuit and an optional dome layer. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160118204 | KEYSWITCH MODULE AND KEYBOARD - A keyswitch module includes a bottom plate, a movable plate, a keycap, and a connecting assembly. The moving plate is stacked with the bottom plate and capable of moving between a first position and a second position relative to the bottom plate. The movable plate moves a horizontal stroke from the first position to the second position. The connecting assembly is operatively connected to the bottom plate and connected to the keycap. A forced portion of the connecting assembly is configured to be moved by a forcing structure of the movable plate to make the keycap move between an opening position and a closing position relative to the bottom plate. When the movable plate is located at the first position, the forcing structure and the forced portion are separated by a distance, and the keycap is located at the opening position. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160118205 | KEYBOARD - Keyboard includes a keyboard unit for inputting commands into an electronic device and a base unit. The base unit includes a first part and a second part. The keyboard unit is movably received in the first part to connect the second part, thereby the keyboard unit and the second part are together configured to operate the electronic device. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160118206 | KEYBOARD - A keyboard includes plural keys, a base plate and a backlight module. Each key includes a keycap and a sliding element. The keycap includes a first protrusion part. The sliding element includes a second protrusion part. The first protrusion part has a first slant surface. The second protrusion part has a second slant surface. The first slant surface and the second slant surface are in parallel with each other. When the keycap is depressed and moved toward the base plate, the first slant surface is moved along the second slant surface to push the sliding element to be moved relative to the base plate in a horizontal direction. Consequently, a light beam transmitted through the base plate is further transmitted through the sliding element and outputted from the keycap, or the light beam transmitted through the base plate is blocked by the sliding element. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160126952 | CONTROL UNIT FOR CONTROLLING ELECTRICAL APPARATUS - A control unit for controlling electrical apparatus. The control unit has (i) a control device which may be wall-mounted; (ii) an actuation plate which may be secured to the control device and comprises a cover surface which is at least partially transparent; (iii) a sensor member for detecting when a user's finger or another body comes into contact with a touch zone; and (iv) a control designed to control the electrical apparatus according to a specific function following detection of the contact action. The control device comprises a switching device associated with the touch zone through the control in such a way that the actuation of the switching device controls the electrical apparatus according to the same function associated with the touch zone. | 05-05-2016 |
| 20160155582 | KEYBOARD AND METHOD FOR ASSEMBLING THE KEYBOARD | 06-02-2016 |
| 20160155583 | CIRCUIT BOARD AND ELECTRONIC KEY USING SAME | 06-02-2016 |
| 20160155585 | OPERATING PANEL DEVICE | 06-02-2016 |
| 20160168779 | LASER-MARKED FABRIC | 06-16-2016 |
| 20160172129 | DOME SWITCH AND SWITCH HOUSING FOR KEYBOARD ASSEMBLY | 06-16-2016 |
| 20160172130 | MEMBRANE CIRCUIT BOARD AND LIGHT-EMITTING KEYBOARD USING THE SAME | 06-16-2016 |
| 20160189890 | VENTING SYSTEM AND SHIELD FOR KEYBOARD - A venting system for a keyboard assembly is disclosed. A keyboard assembly including a printed circuit board defining a set of apertures, and a group of switch housings coupled to the printed circuit board. Each switch housing of the group of switch housings may define a switch opening positioned above one of the set of apertures of the printed circuit board. The keyboard assembly may also include a shield defining at least one channel of a venting system formed below the printed circuit board. The at least one channel may be in fluid communication with at least one aperture, and at least one of the switch openings positioned above the at least one aperture. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160189891 | KEY AND SWITCH HOUSING FOR KEYBOARD ASSEMBLY - A key and a switch housing for a keyboard assembly is disclosed. A switch housing for the keyboard assembly may include a body having a switch opening and a light source recess formed adjacent the switch opening. The switch opening may house or receive a dome switch for the keyboard assembly and the light source recess may house or receive a light source assembly configured to illuminate a keycap of the keyboard assembly. The switch housing also can include a top panel integrally formed and molded to a portion of the body. The top panel covers the switch opening formed in the body and the top panel is a light guide. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160194804 | Laundry Appliance Provided with a Control-Panel Assembly | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160196937 | COMPUTER THIN FILM SWITCH KEYBOARD | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160379772 | KEYBOARD COMPRISING MULTIPLE STABILIZED TILE-SHAPED KEYS - The keyboard having a plurality of plate-shaped keys which are connected to actuators stabilizes the keys by all the keys and all the actuators being connected to a bending-elastic but tension-resistant band-like membrane. | 12-29-2016 |
| 20160379773 | NOVEL CONDUCTING STRUCTURE AND CONDUCTING METHOD FOR UPPER SHEET AND LOWER SHEET OF FILM BUTTON CIRCUIT - A novel conducting structure and conducting method for an upper sheet and a lower sheet of a film button circuit. A first upper sheet conducting layer and a second upper sheet conducting layer are coated in sequence on an upper sheet conducting contact point. A first lower sheet conducting layer and a second lower sheet conducting layer are coated in sequence on a lower sheet conducting contact point. The first upper sheet conducting layer, the second upper sheet conducting layer, the second lower sheet conducting layer and the first lower sheet conducting layer are overlapped in sequence, thereby forming a composite conducting layer that is slightly greater than a back glue layer in thickness. The present invention can simplify assembly processes and can improve the production efficiency. | 12-29-2016 |
| 20160379774 | KEYFRAME MODULE FOR AN INPUT DEVICE - System and methods for providing a keyframe module for a input device are disclosed. In an embodiment, the input device includes a keyframe having a key opening, and a key disposed within the key opening. The key includes a keycap having a bottom surface, a plurality of tabs that extend laterally from the bottom surface of the keycap, and a protrusion extending from the bottom surface of the keycap. A compressible dome structure is disposed underneath the protrusion, and a plate is coupled to the keyframe and disposed underneath the compressible dome structure. A plurality of openings is disposed within the plate, where a location of the plurality of openings corresponds to a location of the plurality of tabs such that one or more of the plurality of tabs pass through one or more of the plurality of openings in response to the depression of the key. | 12-29-2016 |
| 20160379775 | KEYBOARD ASSEMBLIES HAVING REDUCED THICKNESSES AND METHOD OF FORMING KEYBOARD ASSEMBLIES - Keyboard assemblies having reduced thicknesses and methods of forming the same. A keyboard assembly may include a printed circuit board (PCB) and a single membrane sheet adhered directly to the PCB. The single membrane sheet may substantially cover the PCB. The keyboard assembly may also include a group of dome switches coupled directly to the single membrane sheet. Another keyboard assembly may include a group of conductive pads and a group of membrane pads. Each of the group of membrane pads may be adhered directly to a corresponding one of the group of conductive pads. The keyboard assembly may also include a group of dome switches coupled directly to the membrane pads. Each of the group of dome switches may be coupled directly to a corresponding one of the group of membrane pads. | 12-29-2016 |
| 20160379776 | KEYBOARD FOR AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE - Particular embodiments described herein provide for a system that includes means for receiving a signal from a key, the signal indicating that the key has been activated and means for sending lateral haptic feedback to the key in response to the received signal that the key was activated. Additionally, the system may include a means for generating acoustic feedback in response to the received signal indicating that the key was activated and a means for generating visual feedback in response to the received signal indicating that the key was activated. | 12-29-2016 |
| 20180025859 | KEYBOARD DEVICE | 01-25-2018 |
| 20180025862 | KEYBOARD DEVICE | 01-25-2018 |
| 20180025863 | KEYSWITCH DEVICE AND KEYBOARD | 01-25-2018 |
| 20190148091 | LUMINOUS KEYBOARD | 05-16-2019 |
