Patent ID: 6501038
Filing Date: 2002-12-31
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
A key switch comprising:a base; a key top arranged above said base; first and a second link members interlocked to each other and operatively engaged with said base and said key top to support said key top above said base and direct said key top in a vertical direction, said first and second link members including a sliding portion slidably and shiftably engaged with either one of said base and said key top; at least one plate spring disposed between at least said first link member and either one of said base and said key top with which said sliding portion is engaged, to exert biasing force, relative to a shifting amount of said sliding portion, onto said at least said first link member in a direction different from said vertical direction, said at least one plate spring including, in an integral manner, a first spring portion extending along a fixed-end side in a direction substantially parallel to a shifting direction of said sliding portion of said first link member and a second spring portion extending along a free-end side in a direction intersecting said first spring portion; and a switching mechanism for selectively opening and closing an electric circuit in connection with a vertical movement of said key top.