Patent ID: 6706985
Filing Date: 2004-03-16
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
A key switch comprising:a key which is pressed down by a user's finger; a linkage assembly comprised of a first linking member with an arm connected to an outer end thereof, a second linking member with an arm connected to an outer end thereof, and a downwardly convex bow-shaped elastic object connected between the arms of the first and second linking members, which is lowered by pressure of the key to cause a key-input operation to be recognized and is raised together with the key by release of the pressure on the key, one of the first and second linking members including a coupling recess at an inner end and a hinge protrusion at a side surface, and the other of the first and second linking members including a coupling protrusion at an inner end and a hinge protrusion at its side surface, the coupling recess and protrusion being engaged with each other to constitute a linkage rotating shaft; a frame including hinge hooks engaged with the hinge protrusions of the first and second linking members; and an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) placed on the frame, which enables a key-input operation to be recognized by contact with the linkage assembly, wherein, as the key is pressed down, the arms of the first and second linking members are rotated downward around the linkage rotating shaft while linkage rotating shaft is raised, and the elastic object is gradually flattened and then bent into an upwardly convex bow shape, thereby providing a clicking sensation to a user and a restoring force to the linkage assembly.