Optically transmissive key assemblies for display-capable keyboards, keypads, or other user input devices
US9455101B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 5, 2011 |
| Grant date | Sep 27, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 11, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H2235/028
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
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.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.