Patent ID: 8383971
Filing Date: 2013-02-26
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
1. An illuminated keyboard comprising: a plurality of keys arranged in a matrix layout; a base plate; an LED circuit board disposed on the base plate and comprising a first circuitry and a plurality of LEDs electrically connected to the first circuitry to be powered therefrom; a spacer plate disposed on the LED circuit board and below the keys, the spacer plate comprising a plurality of units each corresponding to the key thereabove, each unit including two first groove connectors, two second groove connectors, and at least one opening each for receiving the LED; an optically transmissive film circuit board for generating signals in response to a pressing of the key, the film circuit board disposed on the spacer plate and comprising a second circuitry, a plurality of switch contacts, and a plurality of holes each being in a one to one relationship to the first or second groove connector so that the first or second groove connector is adapted to pass through the hole; and a rubber plate formed of optically transmissive plastic and disposed on the film circuit board, the rubber plate comprising a plurality of resilient domes each disposed between the key and the switch contact, the dome having a recessed top for retaining the key, a conductive bottom stem disposed above the switch contact, and a plurality of through holes grouped as a plurality of groups, each group formed as four corners around the dome, the through holes being aligned with the holes and the first groove connectors or the second groove connectors so that the first or second groove connectors are adapted to pass through the holes.