Patent ID: 6072133
Filing Date: 2000-06-06
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
An elongated key support mechanism comprising:an elongated key top having a length extending in a lengthwise direction and a width extending in a widthwise direction, the length being greater than the width, the key top having two widthwise edges opposite each other with respect to the widthwise direction and having a lower surface;a first holding portion provided on the lower surface of the key top adjacent to one of the widthwise edges;a second holding portion provided on the lower surface of the key top adjacent to another of the widthwise edges;a holder member having a third holding portion confronting the first holding portion and a fourth holding portion confronting the second holding portion; anda guide support member including:a first pair of link members supported between the first and fourth holding portions;a first connection member that extends in the lengthwise direction and that connects the first pair of link members together;a second pair of link members supported by the second and third holding portions;a second connection member that extends in the lengthwise direction and that connects the second pair of link members together; wherein:the first and second pairs of link members are coupled together to enable scissor-like pivoting movements of the first and second pairs of link members to guide movement of the key top toward and away from the holder member, and at least one of the first and second connection members has a rigidity greater than a rigidity of any link member of the first and second pairs of link members.