Mute-able input device with keystroke tactile feedback

A mute-able input device with keystroke tactile feedback includes: a plurality of keys, each including a tactile structure and a sound-generating structure for respectively generating operational tactile feedback and operating sounds; a plurality of adjusting mechanisms, each including an adjusting portion corresponding to one of the keys; at least one switching unit including an operating portion and a switch member, the operating portion connecting the switch member and the adjusting mechanism, the switch member generating a switching signal involving a mode switching between different tactile modes or different sound modes for one or more keys. When the operating portion moves in response to a force, the switch member is triggered to achieve the mode switching; meanwhile, the adjusting portion moves to interfere with at least one of the tactile structure or the sound-generating structure along with the movement of the operating portion.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention generally relates to an input device with adjustable tactile feedback. Particularly, the invention relates to an input device capable of changing the input feedback in response to the switching of tactile mode.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Input devices such as mouses and keyboards use keys as the main user interface. In general, when the user presses the key of the input device to actuate a keystroke action, the input device will generate a click sound accordingly. Recently, silent input devices which do not produce the click sound when being pressed are developed in response to the operation requirements in a quiet environment. However, in order to reduce or eliminate the click sound, the existing silent input device also prevents the user from receiving sufficient operation feedback.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide an input device with adjustable tactile feedback, which is capable of outputting corresponding keystroke sounds respectively in the mute-on mode and the mute-off mode, so as to provide the user with operation feedback of different timbres or volumes.

In an embodiment, the invention provides an input device, which is directly or indirectly coupled to an output device. The input device includes at least one key, a switching unit, and an adjusting mechanism. The at least one key has a tactile structure and a sound-generating structure adjustably interfering with an operation path of the at least one key to respectively generate a tactile feedback and an operating sound. The switching unit has an operating portion operable by a user. The switching unit is capable of generating a switching signal involving a mode switching of the at least one key between different tactile modes and/or different sound modes. The adjusting mechanism has at least one adjusting portion adapted to move in response to the mode switching to drive the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure, so as to adjust an interference ratio of the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure to the operation path. After the mode switching occurs, the output device outputs an operation feedback as the at least one key is triggered.

Optionally, in an embodiment, the input device is a keyboard. The adjusting mechanism includes an adjusting plate for disposing the at least one adjusting portion. The at least one adjusting portion abuts against the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure and is adapted to push the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure as the adjusting plate moves, so as to adjust the interference ratio of the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure to the operation path.

Optionally, in an embodiment, the input device is a keyboard, and the input device further includes an electric drive module coupled to the switching unit and the adjusting mechanism. The electric drive module directly or indirectly drives the at least one adjusting portion to move in response to the switching signal.

Optionally, in an embodiment, the input device is a keyboard, and the input device further includes a linkage mechanism coupled to the switching unit and the adjusting mechanism. When the operating portion of the switching unit receives a force to move, the linkage mechanism directly or indirectly drives the at least one adjusting portion of the adjusting mechanism to move.

Optionally, in an embodiment, the input device is a keyboard, and the input device further includes a linkage mechanism coupled to the switching unit and the adjusting mechanism. When the operating portion of the switching unit receives a force to rotate, the linkage mechanism directly or indirectly drives the at least one adjusting portion of the adjusting mechanism to move.

Optionally, in an embodiment, the input device is a mouse. The at least one key includes a roller. The tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure includes a ratchet co-axially disposed with the roller. The adjusting mechanism includes a transmission arm coupled to the at least one adjusting portion. The at least one adjusting portion has a bump selectively engaging with or disengaging from at least one ratchet tooth of the ratchet to achieve the mode switching.

Optionally, in an embodiment, the input device is a mouse. The switching unit and the adjusting mechanism are at least partially located under the at least one key. The switching unit includes the operating portion in a turning knob form and a linkage mechanism in a long rod form. The adjusting mechanism includes a plurality of blocks located on the linkage mechanism at different positions and different angles. When the switching unit receives a force to rotate, one of the plurality of blocks abuts below the at least one key to switch a pressing fulcrum or an operation distance of the at least one key, so as to achieve the mode switching.

Optionally, in an embodiment, the at least one key is a microswitch. At least one of the tactile structure and the sound-generating structure includes an elastic member. The elastic member has an upper end adapted to move close to or away from a distal end of the elastic member as the microswitch is pressed under a force or released from the force. The distal end extends to be located between a first surface and a second surface in the microswitch. The distal end of the elastic member is temporarily positioned on one of the first surface and the second surface in response to the movement of the adjusting mechanism to achieve the mode switching.

Optionally, in an embodiment, the switching unit includes a switch member capable of generating the switching signal when the switch member is triggered. The switch member includes at least one of a functional key, a combination of keys, a movable switch, a pair of conductive electrodes, a capacitive switch, and optical switch, a magnetic switch, or a piezoelectric switch.

Optionally, in an embodiment, the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure includes at least one of a torsion spring, a leaf spring, a cantilever, or a linkage structure.

Optionally, in an embodiment, the input device and the output device are coupled to a host in a wired or wireless manner. After the switching signal is generated, the host outputs the operation feedback to the output device for output.

In another embodiment, the invention provides an input feedback method applicable to an input device and an output device directly or indirectly coupled with each other. The input device includes at least one key. A tactile structure of the at least one key adjustably interferes with an operation path of the at least one key to provide a tactile feedback when the at least one key is in a first tactile mode and a mute-on mode, the method includes: in the first tactile mode, a switching unit of the input device generating a switching signal; an adjusting mechanism of the input device adjusting an interference ratio of the tactile structure to the operation path to enable the at least one key to enter a second tactile mode while the at least one key remains in the mute-on mode; the at least one key generating an input signal when being pressed and triggered; and the output device outputting a second operation feedback when the at least one key is triggered in the second tactile mode.

Optionally, in an embodiment, the input device and the output device are coupled to a host in a wired or wireless manner. After the switching signal is generated, the host outputs the second operation feedback to the output device for output.

Optionally, in an embodiment, the at least one key further includes a sound-generating structure adjustably interfering or not interfering with the operation path of the at least one key to selectively generate an operating sound.

In another embodiment, the invention provides an input feedback method applicable to an input device and a near-ear device directly or indirectly coupled with each other. The input device includes at least one key having a tactile structure and a sound-generating structure adjustably interfering with an operation path of the at least one key to respectively generate a tactile feedback and a keystroke sound. The method includes: a switching unit of the input device generating a switching signal; an adjusting mechanism of the input device adjusting the sound-generating structure so as not to interfere with the operation path; the at least one key generating an input signal without triggering the sound-generating structure when the at least one key is pressed and triggered; and the near-ear device outputting a corresponding operation sound file when the at least one key is triggered in the second tactile mode.

Optionally, in an embodiment, the input device and the near-ear device are coupled to a host in a wired or wireless manner. After the switching signal is generated, the host outputs the operation sound file to the near-ear device for output.

In a derived embodiment, the invention provides an input device including a plurality of keys, each of the keys having a tactile structure and a sound-generating structure to respectively generate a tactile feedback and an operating sound when the key is pressed; a plurality of adjusting mechanisms, each of the adjusting mechanisms having an adjusting portion corresponding to a corresponding one of the keys; and at least one switching unit having an operating portion and a switch member, the operating portion coupled to the switch member and the adjusting mechanisms, the switch member capable of generating a switching signal involving a mode switching of the keys between different tactile modes and/or different sound modes, wherein when the operating portion receives a force to move, the switch member is triggered to achieve the mode switching; meanwhile, the adjusting mechanism moves with the operating portion to enable the adjusting portion to interfere with at least one of the tactile structure and the sound-generating structure.

Optionally, the input device is coupled to an output device. After the mode switching occurs, the output device outputs an operation feedback when one of the keys is pressed.

Optionally, the input device is coupled to an output device. The output device outputs a switching feedback when the mode switching occurs.

Optionally, each of the keys includes a pressable portion and a microswitch. The tactile structure and the sound-generating structure are disposed in the microswitch. When the pressable portion receives a force to move downward, the force is transferred to the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure.

Optionally, each of the keys includes a microswitch. The sound-generating structure has a hitting portion located between a first surface and a second surface in the microswitch. The hitting portion moves with the adjusting mechanism to be positioned on the second surface to achieve the mode switching.

Optionally, each of two of the keys includes a microswitch. The switch member is located between two parallel extension lines of the two microswitches. The operating portion is perpendicular to the two parallel extension lines of the two microswitches.

Optionally, the sound-generating structure is interfered and restricted by the adjusting mechanism, so the sound-generating structure does not generate the operating sound when the key is pressed.

Optionally, the adjusting mechanism interferes with the sound-generating structure and does not interfere with the tactile structure, so the sound-generating structure is inoperable when the key is pressed, and the tactile structure still generates the tactile feedback.

The device and the method disclosed in embodiments of the invention directly or indirectly notifies the output device of the switching event of the tactile mode and/or the sound mode of the input device, so the output device can correspondingly output an operation sound file or visual/haptic operation feedback according to the current tactile mode/sound mode of the input device. For the device configuration, it can be that: the input device is built with the output device, the input device is directly coupled to the output device, or the input device is coupled to the output device via a host. Moreover, in a quiet external environment, when the key of the input device is switched to the mute-on mode, the user can perceive the operation sound file or visual/haptic operation feedback corresponding to the first tactile mode through the near-ear device (such as a headphone) to achieve the provision of sound feedback and the maintenance of quiet environment. In addition, when the key of the input device is in the mute-on mode without generating the keystroke sound, in response to the switching of tactile mode of the key, the output device can output the operation sound file or visual/haptic operation feedback corresponding to different tactile modes, so as to satisfy the feedback demand of the user on different operation situations. Moreover, for the synchronous mode switching operation of multiple keys, the operating portion of the switching unit can couple to all adjusting mechanisms and the switch member, so when the adjusting mechanism adjusts the tactile structure or the sound-generating structure, the switch member is also triggered to generate the switching signal, and the output device can output different operation feedback after the mode switching.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring toFIG.1,FIG.1is a schematic view of the feedback system1000in an embodiment of the invention. As shown inFIG.1, the feedback system1000mainly includes an output device1200and an input device1300, which are directly or indirectly coupled to each other in a wired or wireless manner. If necessary, the output device1200can indirectly couple to the input device1300via a host1100. The output device1200and the input device1300can couple to the host1100in a wired or wireless manner.

The host1100can be an electronic device with the computing processing capability, such as a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet, or a smart phone. The host1100can include a central processing unit (CPU)1101, a storage unit1102, and an input/output (I/O) interface1103. The storage unit1102is configured to store multiple keystroke sound files1102S (operation sound files). The central processing unit1101is configured to control the output device1200to output a corresponding one of the keystroke sound files1102S (operation sound files) according to the switching signal N1generated by the input device1300.

The output device1200mainly includes a microprocessor1201, a broadcast element1202, and an I/O port1203. The output device1200can also store a portion of the operation sound files (e.g. the keystroke sound files1102S (operation sound files) mentioned above) in its storage space.

The input device1300includes one or more keys1310, a switching unit1304, a microprocessor1305, a key circuit1306, and an adjusting mechanism1307. The user-manually-operable switching unit1304and the key circuit1306are coupled to the microprocessor1305. The key circuit1306is coupled to a plurality of switches1311, and each switch1311can be triggered to generate an input signal K1(e.g. alphanumeric signals or other input commands) in response to the pressing of a physical key (e.g. the key1310). Each physical key1310mainly includes the switch1311, a trigger structure1312, a tactile structure1313, and a sound-generating structure1314. The specific structures and descriptions can be referred to the following embodiments. In a different embodiment, the switching unit1304can be physically connected to or pivotally coupled to the adjusting mechanism1307, or can be indirectly electrically connected to the adjusting mechanism1307. Accordingly, when the switching unit1304is actuated, the switching unit1304can directly move or indirectly drive the adjusting mechanism1307to adjust the tactile structure1313and/or the sound-generating structure1314of the key1310. As such, the key1310can change the tactile feedback or switch the sound mode, i.e., mute-on or mute-off mode. The key1310moves along an operation path when being pressed, and the tactile structure1313and the sound-generating structure1314are generally an integral elastic member or multiple elastic members, which will interfere with the operation path when the key1310is pressed. Accordingly, by changing the positions of the tactile structure1313and the sound-generating structure1314relative to the operation path, the tactile feedback or the sound mode can be changed.

For example, the input device1300can be a mouse device or a keyboard device. The switching unit1304can adjust the tactile structure1313and/or the sound-generating structure1314of the key1310when switching, so the input device1300and the keys1310thereof can be switched between a first tactile mode and a second tactile mode or between the mute-on mode and the mute-off mode. The sound-generating structure1314and the tactile structure1313can be selectively operated independently, so the tactile mode and the sound mode of the key1310can be switched synchronously or independently. For example, the key1310can provide the tactile feedback under the mute-on mode, or no tactile feedback under the mute-on mode. In other embodiments, the switching of the tactile mode and the sound mode are linked together. For example, the first tactile mode is linked with the mute-off mode, so the key1310will provide an operation feedback of louder keystroke sound and higher pressing resistance or a clear tactile feedback of louder keystroke sound. In contrast, the second tactile mode is linked with the mute-on mode, so the key1310will provide an operation feedback of smaller or inaudible keystroke sound and lower pressing resistance or a quieter or inaudible linear feedback. When the key1310is in the second tactile mode, the volume of the physical keystroke sound is at least smaller than the volume of the physical keystroke sound in the first tactile mode. Moreover, in different embodiments, the key1310can be a longitudinal pressing type input member, a rotating type input member, or other type input member (e.g. traverse sliding type), which has the adjustable tactile structure and is suitable for the device and the method of the embodiments of the invention. In addition, the keys in the embodiments are not limited to traditional keyswitches or buttons. The keys in the embodiments and the claims generally refer to the elements on the input device which are configured to be operated to generate the input signal by the user. The input signal can be generated through a pressing operation (e.g. on the keys of the keyboard) or a scrolling operation (e.g. on the roller of the mouse). A wheel-shaped button such as the mouse roller can generate not only the input signal through the scrolling operation to scroll the page in a browsing operation, but also the input signal through the pressing operation (on the middle button of the mouse). Therefore, the aforementioned operation sound files or keystroke sound files can be pre-recorded or simulated keyswitch click sounds, mouse roller scrolling sounds in ratchet and free spin modes, click sounds of pressing the mouse right/left/middle buttons. These operation sounds will have different timbres and characteristics due to different internal components of the key (e.g. mechanical plunger, microswitch, scissors-like support, butterfly support, with/without metal balance bar, support frame material), different tactile structures or sound-generating structures, and different materials.

The switching unit1304includes a pressable button or rotatable button and is adapted to drive the adjusting mechanism1307in response to a switching operation, so the input device1300and the keys1310thereof are switched between the first tactile mode and the second tactile mode and/or between the mute-on mode and the mute-off mode. When the switching unit1304generates the switching signal N1, the adjusting mechanism1307can be electrically controlled by the microprocessor1305according to the switching signal N1. Alternatively, the switching unit1304can be physically connected to the adjusting mechanism1307to physically drive the adjusting mechanism1307. For the host1100and the output device1200, the switching signal N1involves the mode switching of the key1310between different operation feedback modes, such as the mode switching between different tactile modes or between different sound modes (e.g. mute-on, mute-off, different operation sounds).

In one aspect, the invention aims to realize that the user can listen the corresponding tapping sound of pressing the keys of keyboard/mouse without disturbing people in the neighborhood. In the following embodiments, the near-ear device (e.g. the sound conduction or bone conduction headphone) is used as the example of the output device1200, but not limited thereto. In a specific application, the output device1200can be other types of audio devices, such as wired or wireless speaker (e.g. Bluetooth speaker, Wi-Fi speaker), which can adjust the playback volume in response to the switching of tactile or sound mode.

Referring toFIG.2, a flowchart of the input feedback method in an embodiment of the invention is illustrated. In response to the mode switching of the input device1300, the output device1200outputs a corresponding keystroke sound. The method ofFIG.2can be performed by the feedback system1000ofFIG.1, and these steps are not necessarily performed according to the order shown inFIG.2.FIG.2illustrates an embodiment that the switching of the tactile mode and the sound mode are not linked together. For example, only the sound mode is switched, and the tactile structure1313is normally in the first tactile mode to provide tactile feedback of a perceivable pressing resistance.

Step S101: the switching unit1304generates the (mute-on) switching signal N1(e.g. switching to the mute-on mode). The switching unit1304can generate the (mute-on) switching signal N1according to the operation of the user on the switching unit1304.

Step S102: the adjusting mechanism1307enables the key1310to be switched to the mute-on mode. When the switching unit1304generates the (mute-on) switching signal N1, the switching unit1304can optionally drive the adjusting mechanism1307at the same, so the sound-generating structure1314of the key1310enters the mute-on mode from the mute-off mode. Since the adjusting mechanism1307does not adjust the tactile structure1313, the key1310is in the low noise or no noise state and provides tactile feedback of perceivable (larger) pressing resistance (e.g. the first tactile mode) or linear feedback/tactile feedback of smaller pressing resistance (e.g. the second tactile mode), so that the user can be provided with different operation feedback of different pressing resistances on the finger. The switching unit1304can drive the adjusting mechanism1307in different ways including: electrically driving through an electric drive module, or mechanically driving by connecting the switching unit1304and the adjusting mechanism1307through any suitable linkage mechanism and transferring the force applied to the switching unit1304by the user to the adjusting mechanism1307. After the switching signal N1is generated, the structure of the input device can be changed, so the volume of the click sound generated when the user presses the key1310is changed, for example, from the first tactile mode to the second tactile mode or from the second tactile mode to the first tactile mode.

Step S103: when the key1310is pressed and triggered, the sound-generating structure1314is not triggered. When the user presses the key1310, the key1310and the sound-generating structure1314thereof is in the mute-on mode, so the key1310is pressed without triggering and the sound-generating structure1314. In response to the pressing of the key1310, the input signal K1is generated and transmitted to the host1100.

Step S104: the keystroke sound file (operation sound file) corresponding to the mute-on mode is outputted by the headphone (the output device1200). Since the key1310and the sound-generating structure1314thereof are in the mute-on mode, there is no mechanical click sound in the entire environment, and in response to the pressing of the key1310(and the generation of the input signal K1), the headphone (the output device1200) can output the keystroke sound file (operation sound file) corresponding to the mute-on mode as the audible feedback to the user.

In some embodiments, the headphone (the output device1200) is directly connected to the input device1300in a wired or wireless manner, such as directly connected to the headphone socket of the keyboard or mouse, or wireless connected to the headphone through the communication protocol such as Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/ZigBee/MQTT/CoAP without the host1100. Accordingly, the headphone (the output device1200) can directly receive the (mute-on) switching signal N1and the input signal K1. Meanwhile, the headphone (the output device1200) itself can store the keystroke sound files (operation sound files), so the headphone (the output device1200) can directly receive the (mute-on) switching signal N1and output the keystroke sound file corresponding to the mute-on mode in response to the pressing of the key1310(and the generation of the input signal K1). InFIGS.1and2, the headphone (the output device1200) can indirectly couple to the input device1300via the host1100, so the method further includes:

Step S105, in response to the (mute-on) switching signal N1and the input signal K1, the corresponding keystroke sound file1102S is retrieved. The (mute-on) switching signal N1generated by the switching unit1304is transmitted to the microprocessor1305, and the microprocessor1305can transmit the same or corresponding signal to the host1100based on the switching signal N1, so the host1100will change the status settings of the input device1300to the mute-on mode. After the key1310is pressed to trigger the switch1311, and the input signal K1is transmitted to the host1100via the key circuit1306and the microprocessor1305, the central processing unit1101of the host1100can control and retrieve the corresponding keystroke sound file1102S in the storage unit1102, wherein the keystroke sound file1102S corresponds to the input signal K1and the (mute-on) switching signal N1(i.e., corresponding to the first tactile mode).

Step S106: the corresponding keystroke sound file is outputted to the output device1200. The audible signal N2(the encoded keystroke sound file1102S) is transmitted to the output device1200through the I/O interface1103and the I/O port1203. Finally, in the aforementioned step S104, the keystroke sound file is played by the broadcast element1202of the near-ear device (the headphone) (the output device1200); therefore, even though no mechanical sound is generated, the sound feedback can be provided to the user as the mode switching of the key1310is actuated.

Referring toFIG.3, a flowchart of the input feedback method in another embodiment of the invention is illustrated. The method shown inFIG.3can be performed by the feedback system1000ofFIG.1; however, these steps are not necessarily performed according to the order shown inFIG.3.FIG.3also illustrates an embodiment that the switching of the tactile feedback and the sound mode are not linked together, and the sound mode is not switched. For example, the tactile mode is switched from the first tactile mode to the second tactile mode, and the sound-generating structure does not interfere with the operation path of the key1310, so that the sound mode is maintained in the mute-on mode before and after the switching of the tactile mode. Moreover, in the first tactile mode, the tactile structure1313of the key1310provides the tactile feedback of higher pressing resistance or clear tactile feedback, and the corresponding (first) keystroke sound file can be played at a default or on-demand first volume. In the second tactile mode, the tactile structure1313provides the tactile feedback of lower pressing resistance or linear feedback, and the corresponding (second) keystroke sound file can be played at a default or on-demand second volume.

Step S201: the switching unit1304generates the (tactile) switching signal N1. The generation of the switching signal N1means that all or partial of the keys1310of the input device1300is switched from the first tactile mode to the second tactile mode, and the keys1310and the sound-generating structures1314thereof are still in the mute-on mode.

Step S202: the adjusting mechanism1307enables the key1310to be switched to the second tactile mode. The switching unit1304can be physically connected to or electrically drive the adjusting mechanism1307. For example, the microprocessor1305can judge the (tactile) switching signal N1and electrically drive the motor to move the adjusting mechanism1307. Alternatively, the switching unit1304can be physically connected to or pivotally coupled to the adjusting mechanism1307, so when the switching unit1304is operated by the user, the adjusting mechanism1307is mechanically driven. Switching the key1310to the second tactile mode means that the tactile structure1313is adjusted by the adjusting mechanism1307to a configuration not interfere with the operation path of the key1310, so the key1310provides tactile feedback of lower pressing resistance or linear feedback. The detailed descriptions will be explained in the following embodiments. In different embodiments, the adjustment of tactile modes is basically adjusting the interference ratio of the tactile structure1313to the operation path of the key1310by the adjusting mechanism1307. When the interference ratio is higher, the pressing resistance is increased; when the interference ratio is lower, the pressing resistance is reduced. The tactile feedback of the key1310can be adjusted based on the provision with/without the escaping design of the tactile structure1313. Similarly, by adjusting the interference ratio of the sound-generating structure1314to the operation path, the sound mode can be switched between the mute-on mode and the mute-off mode.

Step S203: the key1310is pressed and triggered without triggering the sound-generating structure1314. When the user presses the key1310, the key1310and the sound-generating structure1314thereof are in the mute-on mode, i.e., the sound-generating structure1314does not interfere with the operation path of the key1310, so pressing the key1310will not enable the sound-generating structure1314to generate the click sound. Meanwhile, in response to the pressing of the key1310, the input signal K1is generated and transmitted to the host1100.

Step S204: the output device1200plays the (second) keystroke sound file at the second volume. Since the key1310and the sound-generating structure1314thereof are in the mute-on mode, there is no mechanical click sound in the entire environment, and in response to the pressing of the key1310(and the generation of the input signal K1), the output device1200can play a corresponding (second) keystroke sound file as the audible feedback to the user. The volume of the corresponding (second) keystroke sound file played by the output device1200can be a default or on-demand second volume. The second volume corresponding to the second tactile mode can be selectively set by the user. Compared to the first volume in the first tactile mode, the second volume can be louder than the first volume. Since the tactile feedback in the second tactile mode is less significant (e.g. low pressing resistance or linear feedback), the louder second volume can provide a more significant audible feedback. In another embodiment, when the environment requires a quiet atmosphere, the second volume can be smaller or close to soundless. Before the switching signal N1is generated, i.e., in the first tactile mode, the output device1200can play the first operation sound file in response to the input signal K1.

In some embodiments, the output device1200(e.g. the headphone or speaker) is directly connected to the input device1300in a wired or wireless manner without the host1100. Accordingly, the output device1200can directly receive the switching signal N1and the input signal K1. Meanwhile, the output device1200itself can store the (second) keystroke sound file, so the output device1200can directly receive the (tactile) switching signal N1and play the corresponding (second) keystroke sound file at the second volume in response to the pressing of the key1310(and the generation of the input signal K1). InFIG.3, the output device1200can indirectly couple to the input device1300via the host1100, so the method of the embodiment further includes:

Step S205: in response to the (tactile) switching signal N1and the input signal K1, the corresponding (second) keystroke sound file1102S and the second volume are retrieved. The microprocessor can judge the (tactile) switching signal N1generated by the switching unit1304and transmit a corresponding signal (or directly transfer the same) to the host1100, so the host1100changes the status settings of the input device1300to be the second tactile mode (corresponding to the settings of the second volume).

Step S206: the (second) keystroke sound file and the second volume (setting) corresponding to the second tactile mode are outputted. After the key1310is pressed to trigger the switch1311, and the input signal K1is transmitted to the host1100via the key circuit1306and the microprocessor1305, the central processing unit1101of the host1100can control and retrieve the corresponding (second) keystroke sound file1102S and the second volume (settings) stored in the storage unit1102, wherein the (second) keystroke sound file1102S and the second volume (settings) correspond to the input signal K1and the (tactile) switching signal N1(i.e., corresponding to the second tactile mode), and then the audible signal N2(the encoded (second) keystroke sound file1102S) is transmitted to the output device1200through the I/O interface1103and the I/O port1203. Finally, in the aforementioned step S204, after the (tactile) switching signal N1is generated, the broadcast element1202of the near-ear device (the output device1200) broadcasts in response to the generation of the input signal K1. Therefore, even though no mechanical sound (physical keystroke sound) is generated, in response to the tactile switching of the key1310, the user can be provided with different audible feedback, and the near-ear device outputs the sound only to the specific user without disturbing the original quiet environment.

Moreover, in different embodiments, the method ofFIG.3can be employed to switch from the first tactile mode to a third tactile mode. In the third tactile mode, the pressing resistance provided by the tactile structure1313exceeds that in the first tactile mode, or the force resistance curve during the keystroke will have different shapes of peak and valley. After the switching signal N1is generated, the output device1200can output the third keystroke sound file at the corresponding third volume in response to the input signal K1.

In the following embodiments, several methods associated with how the switching unit1304drives the adjusting mechanism1307or how the switching unit1304generates the switching signal N1will be explained.FIG.4is an embodiment of an electric drive module400. Please refer toFIG.1andFIG.4. The input device1300of the invention is embodied as a keyboard. The input device1300includes a key module300and the electric drive module400. The key module300includes keys310(corresponding to the keys1310inFIG.1), a switching unit, a microprocessor, a key circuit, and an adjusting mechanism320(corresponding to the adjusting mechanism1307inFIG.1). Except the keys310and the adjusting mechanism320, the switching unit, the microprocessor, and the key circuit are not shown inFIG.4. The adjusting mechanism320in this embodiment includes a plate body, which is disposed parallel to all or partial of the keys310. The adjusting mechanism320can partially protrude or recess relative to each of the keys310so as to abut against the tactile structure or the sound-generating structure of the key310. The electric drive module400is indirectly coupled to the microprocessor ofFIG.1. The electric drive module400can include a battery, a motor, and a transmission structure (not shown), wherein the transmission structure is physically connected to the motor and the adjusting mechanism320. When the switching unit generates the switching signal N1, the microprocessor controls the torsion force outputted by the motor of the electric drive module400to drive the adjusting mechanism320, so as to adjust the tactile structure or the sound-generating structure of the key310, resulting in the switching of the tactile mode or the sound mode. The input device can further include an indicator360, which is adapted to change the indicating status in response to the mode switching. For example, the indicator360can be a light device and change the indicating status by lighting or not lighting. In other embodiments, the indicator360can be implemented as an audible device, which generates audio signals in response to the mode switching to notify the user of the current tactile mode or sound mode.

FIG.5Ais an exploded view of the key module300in an embodiment of the invention. The key module300mainly includes a plurality of keys310, a key circuit314(i.e., a circuit board), an adjusting mechanism320, and a switching unit (referring to15A/15B inFIG.5B/5C). The adjusting mechanism320includes an adjusting plate322and a linkage mechanism340. The linkage mechanism340includes a first linking member342and a second linking member344. The linkage mechanism340is pivotally coupled to the adjusting plate320and the housing330. The linkage mechanism340drives the adjusting plate320to move along a certain direction relative to the keys310when receiving a force. The adjusting plate322has a plurality of adjusting portions324corresponding to the keys310, respectively. Each of the keys310has the tactile structure and the sound-generating structure (e.g. a torsion spring, a leaf spring, a cantilever, or a linkage structure, which is elastically deformable). One or more of the adjusting portions324can movably abut against the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure, in response to the movement of the adjusting plate320, to move the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure of the keys310, so as to achieve the switching of tactile and/or sound mode. InFIG.5A, the adjusting portion324is embodied as a long rod, which can extend into the key310, but not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the adjusting portion324can be a short wing or a recessed structure. Alternatively, the key310may have a notch to expose a portion of the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure, or a portion of the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure can extend out of the key310. The adjusting portion324can be configured to have any suitable configuration to abut against the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure. In this embodiment, the switching unit which generates the switching signal N1(corresponding to the switching unit1304ofFIG.2) can be implemented by, for example, one or more specific keys310and a corresponding partial key circuit314. The functional key code or combination key code generated by pressing the specific key(s) can be an example of the switching signal N1.

The switching unit of the invention (e.g. the switching unit1304ofFIG.1) can be implemented with different configurations according to different embodiments. In general, the switching unit can include an operating portion operable by the user and a switch member adapted to generate the switching signal. When the switching unit is physically connected to the adjusting mechanism, a linking member or other coupling members can be disposed on the switching unit and the adjusting mechanism and connected therebetween, as later introduced inFIG.5B. When the switching unit is not physically connected to the adjusting mechanism, the adjusting mechanism can be electrically driven as described in the embodiment ofFIG.4.FIG.5Bis an exploded view of the switching unit15A and the adjusting mechanism320in a variant embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the switching unit15A is physically connected to the adjusting mechanism320. The switching unit15A includes an operating portion151, a linkage mechanism152, and a switch member (not shown). The switching unit15A is coupled to the adjusting plate322of the adjusting mechanism320via the linkage mechanism152. The operating portion151has a shape of a rectangular block and is generally exposed on the outer surface of the keyboard (the input device). When the user linearly exerts force on the operating portion151of the switching unit15A, through the linkage mechanism152, the switching unit15A can drive the adjusting mechanism320to move, so the adjusting portion324of the adjusting mechanism320can move the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure of the key310(shown inFIG.4andFIG.5A) to switch the tactile or sound mode. Meanwhile, the movement of the switching unit15A will trigger the switch member to generate the switching signal, so the host or the output device can recognize the changing of the tactile or sound mode to retrieve the keystroke sound file corresponding to the tactile or sound mode after switching and play it at a corresponding volume.

In practical applications, to move the tactile structures and/or the sound-generating structures of over one hundred keys on the keyboard (the input device) requires a pushing force of several kilograms. To address this, the operating portion of the switching unit can be designed to have a turning knob form for saving force.FIGS.6A and6Bare a partial 3D top view and a partial 3D bottom view of the switching unit15B and the adjusting mechanism320in another variant embodiment of the invention, respectively. This embodiment is applicable to the keyboard type input device. The turning knob type switching unit15B includes an operating portion151, a linkage mechanism152, and a switch member153. The operating portion151can have a handle of a certain length. The longer length of the handle will generate a larger moment of force and save the user's force. The switching member153is a ring-shaped switch around the operating portion151. The linkage mechanism152includes a base1521disposed on the upper surface of the adjusting plate322of the adjusting mechanism320and a connection piece1522disposed on the lower surface of the adjusting plate322. The base1521is fixed on the housing (not shown), and the operating portion151is exposed outside the housing. The operating portion151is coupled to the connection piece1522through the rotation axle C, and the connection piece1522has an arch-shaped slot H. The base1521has a shaft P penetrating the adjusting plate322into the slot H. When the operating portion151receives a force to rotate toward a certain direction, the switch member153can generate the switching signal in response to the rotation of the operating portion151, and the connection piece1522rotates with the operating portion151to drive the adjusting plate322to move by pushing one of the two ends H1/H2of the slot H with the shaft P. Meanwhile, the adjusting portion324of the adjusting mechanism320can push the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure of the key310(shown inFIG.4andFIG.5A) to switch the tactile or sound mode. Moreover, the input device can utilize magnets154to position the connection piece1522before and after the mode switching to ensure the structural stability in respective state and promote the positioning feedback when the user operates the switching unit15B.

Regardless of keyboard, mouse or other input devices, the switch member of the switching unit which generates the switching signal N1can be implemented in different manners, such as a switch of the key circuit (e.g. a single functional key or a combination of keys), a pair of conductive electrodes, a capacitive switch, an optical switch, a magnetic switch, piezoelectric switch, etc.FIGS.7A and7Bare partial 3D views of the switch member of the switching unit in yet another variant embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the switching unit of the input device can include an operating portion (not shown), a linkage mechanism (not shown), and the switch member370in the form of an optical switch. The switch member370includes a pair of an emitter315and a receiver316. The switching unit further includes a blocking piece329which moves in response to the switching operation of the switching unit. The blocking piece329can be located on the switching unit or the adjusting mechanism, such as on the adjusting plate322of the adjusting mechanism320ofFIGS.5A and5B, or on the linkage mechanism152of the switching unit15A of FIG.5B, or on the connection piece1522of the linkage mechanism152of the switching unit15B ofFIG.6B. InFIG.7A, the blocking piece329moves, in response to the switching operation of the switching unit, to interpose between the emitter315and the receiver316, so as to block the optical path and the optical signal. InFIG.7B, the blocking piece329moves, in response to the switching operation of the switching unit, to avoid the optical path between the emitter315and the receiver316, so as to allow the optical signal to be received by the receiver316. The operation of blocking or non-blocking the optical path and the optical signal can be employed to generate the switching signal.

Several embodiments with the mouse as the input device are provided below, which can realize the switching between high speed rotation and ratchet rotation of roller.FIG.8is a schematic cross-sectional view of the input device in a variant embodiment of the invention. The input device5is a mouse, and the roller162has a ratchet164, which is co-axially arranged to rotate synchronously along the axial direction16a. The rotation of the roller162will generate the input signal through the grating disc and the encoder (not shown). In this embodiment, the roller162can correspond to the key in the previous embodiment, and the ratchet164can correspond to the tactile structure and/or the sound-generating structure of the key. The input device5further includes a switching unit6244, an electric drive module6242(e.g. motor and transmission element), and an adjusting mechanism20. The switching unit6244includes an operating portion6244aand a switch member6244b. The operating portion6244ais exposed on the surface of the housing122. When the user presses the operating portion6244a, the switch member6244bis triggered to generate the switching signal to actuate the mode switching. Meanwhile, the electric drive module6242can drive the transmission arms202/204/206and the adjusting portion182of the adjusting mechanism20through the linkage mechanism622, so that the bump184of the adjusting portion182can engage with or detach from the ratchet teeth1644of the ratchet164(the tactile structure) to achieve the switching of tactile/sound mode. When the bump184of the adjusting portion182is engaged with the teeth1644of the ratchet164, the roller162produces the ratchet rotation as the bumps184alternatingly enters in/out the space between the ratchet teeth1644of the ratchet164. When the bump184of the adjusting portion182is detached from the ratchet teeth1644of the ratchet164, the roller162can rotate in high speed due to the greatly reduced rotation resistance. Adjusting the interference of the adjusting portion182with the ratchet164of the roller162corresponds to the adjustment of the interference with the rotation path (the operation path) of the roller162. The output device12ais a speaker, and the circuit board126of the input device5is disposed with a storage unit126a, which is electrically connected to the output device12aand can store a plurality of keystroke sound files and roller sound files (both are operation sound files). As such, with the omission of the host ofFIGS.1,2and3, the output device12ais built in the input device5, and in response to the switching of roller tactile mode or the switching of key tactile mode, the built-in output device12acan output the operation sound file (keystroke sound file or roller sound file), which corresponds to the current roller tactile mode or the key tactile mode and is played at a default or on-demand volume. The device configurations and the methods (including that the input device is built with the output device, and the output device plays the operation sound file corresponding to the current tactile mode or sound mode of the input device) can be applied to a mouse, a keyboard or other input devices.

In addition, the tactile mode switching of mouse can be implemented on the tactile mode switching of the keys (left, right and middle keys). Specifically, the pressing resistance of the tactile feedback of the mouse key comes from the keys (the tactile/sound-generating structure is, for example, the torsion spring/leaf spring/compression spring, etc. between the key and the housing) over the mouse housing and the microswitch (the tactile/sound-generating structure is, for example, the torsion spring/leaf spring/compression spring, etc. inside the microswitch) on the circuit board. Accordingly, the mouse key or the microswitch can be disposed with the adjusting mechanism to switch the pressing resistance. Regarding the switching of the pressing resistance of the mouse key, please refer toFIGS.9A and9B.FIG.9Ais a partial 3D view of the input device in a derived embodiment of the invention;FIG.9Bis an enlarged view of the region B1ofFIG.9A. The input device5is a mouse, and the key2can be movably coupled to the upper surface of the housing50of the input device5. The switching unit3and the adjusting mechanisms322/323/321are at least partially located under the key2. The pressing portion224of the pressable portion22of the key2extends downward to pass the housing50and to abut against the microswitch200. Pressing the key2will trigger the microswitch200to generate the input signal. The switching unit3of the input device5can include an operating portion3211in a turning knob form with a tapered handle, a linkage mechanism325in a long rod form, and a plurality of switch members3212. The plurality of adjusting mechanisms322/323/321are in the form of blocks and disposed on the linkage mechanism325at different locations and different angles, respectively. The operating portion3211of the switching unit3receives the force applied by the user to rotate, one of the plurality of adjusting mechanisms322/323/321will or will not abut against one of the blocks221/222/223on the lower surface of the key2, so as to change the fulcrum of the key2and the operation distance h between the lower surface of the key2and the microswitch200. The interference of the adjusting mechanisms322/323/321with the blocks221/222/223on the lower surface of the key2corresponds to the interference with the operation path of the key2, which can change the tactile/operation feedback of the key2. Moreover, when the switching unit3rotates, one of the switch members3212will be correspondingly triggered to generate the switching signal. Then, the output device will play the operation sound file corresponding to the current tactile mode/sound mode, which can be referred toFIGS.1/2/3andFIG.8and will not elaborate hereinafter.

The switching of pressing resistance of the microswitch of the mouse to achieve the switching of tactile mode can be referred toFIG.10, which is a schematic cross-sectional view a portion of the key (the microswitch200) of the input device in a derived embodiment of the invention. The microswitch200includes a top post210, a trigger structure (constituted by linking members212/214/216), an optical switch410, a tactile structure81(e.g. implemented by an elastic member, such as torsion spring or leaf spring), a switching unit450, an adjusting mechanism460, and a key circuit430. When the top post210is pressed by the pressable portion224(FIG.9A) under the key2, the top post210will enable the linking members212/214/216of the rotatable trigger structure to rotate, so as to trigger the optical switch410on the key circuit430to generate the input signal. The upper end812of the tactile structure81abuts below the linking member214of the trigger structure and can move close to or away from the distal end814as the microswitch200is pressed by or released from the force. The distal end814of the tactile structure81extends to be located between a (first) surface651and a (second) surface652, and the pivoting portion816is rotatably positioned inside the microswitch200. The surfaces651and652can be two surfaces of any suitable structure inside the input device5. When the user exerts the force on the operating portion451of the switching unit450, which is exposed from the bottom surface of the housing52, to enable the switching unit450and the entire adjusting mechanism460to move along the X direction, the adjusting mechanism460in the form of an upright hook having an inclined surface can push the distal end814of the tactile structure81, and the distal end814is at least temporarily positioned on the surface651or the surface652. When the distal end814of the tactile structure81is positioned on the surface651, a larger pressing resistance is provided. When the distal end814is positioned on the surface652, the tactile structure81provides a smaller pressing resistance to the linking members212/214/216. Moreover, the switching unit450further includes a switch member451. When the switching unit450moves back and forth along the X direction, the switch member451can generate the switching signals, respectively. Then, the output device can play the operation sound file corresponding to the current tactile mode/sound mode before or after the switching of the microswitch200, which can be referred toFIGS.1/2/3andFIG.8and will not elaborate hereinafter. In addition, the tactile structure81can also be the sound-generating structure. For example, in the mute-off mode, the distal end814of the tactile structure81can deform and restore, in response to the movement of the linking members212/214/216of the trigger structure, so as to hit the surface652to generate the hitting sound. In the mute-on mode, the distal end814is positioned on the surface652and cannot hit the surface652to generate the hitting sound. Accordingly, the microswitch200of the mouse as the input device can have adjustable tactile and sound-generating structures for the switching of the tactile or sound mode, enabling the output device to play the operation sound file corresponding to the current mode of the microswitch200. The tactile adjustment of the microswitch200can be implemented on the left key, the right key, and the middle key (pressing the roller) of the mouse, and can also be implemented on the mechanical keys adopting the microswitches200on the keyboard.

In the previous embodiments, the operation feedback of the key of the input device is described with the operation sound file, but the operation feedback of the invention is not limited to the audio output. The output device can output visible light or vibration to provide a visual or haptic operation feedback to the user. For example, the indicator ofFIG.4can be one or more indicating lamps or vibrating elements (e.g. piezoelectric element or vibration motor). Accordingly, in response to the first/second/third operation sound modes of the previously mentioned different modes, the visual operation feedback can be achieved by outputting light signals of different colors/brightness/frequency/period/location/number/pattern. The haptic operation feedback can be achieved by outputting vibrations of different amplitude/frequency/period/location/number. Specifically, the haptic operation feedback can be used when the key is in the mode of providing tactile feedback, and can further be used when the tactile structure of the key is adjusted to provide the tactile feedback of small pressing resistance or the linear feedback. For example, when the tactile structure and the sound-generating structure are both disabled, and the key provides no physical sound feedback with insignificant tactile feedback or without tactile feedback, the user can still rely on the haptic operation feedback. In such a case, the output device can be, for example, directly connected to the input device (including built-in), and the vibrating element is preferably disposed on the input device, such as the housing of mouse or keyboard at a location, which is not necessarily to overlap the pressed keys, but any place that the fingers or palm of the user can receive the vibrations.

Referring toFIGS.11and12, the input device of the embodiment is implemented with the mouse configuration. The input device is electrically coupled to an output device, which is implemented as, for example, a speaker SP or a light device LD ofFIGS.11and12. The output device and the input device can be electrically connected through a cable or the printed circuitry on a printed circuit board3a. For transmission of the operation feedback sound, the sound output surface of the speaker SP can be at least partially exposed on the outer surface of the input device or located in a hole or opening communicating with the external environment. When the speaker SP has a sufficient output power, the speaker SP can be entirely located inside the input device, and the audio wave will cause micro-vibrations of the surface of the input device, which can be considered as a kind of operation feedback to the user. Regarding the location of the light device LD, the light device LD should be located on the surface of the input device (particularly a region not covered by the palm or fingers of the user, such as the area between the thumb and the index finger) to facilitate the display of the feedback light. Moreover, the vibration motor or the piezoelectric element can be used with or replace the light device LD and/or the speaker SP to provide the haptic operation feedback.

As shown inFIGS.11and12, the input device includes a plurality of keys2(e.g. left key/right key/middle key (roller) of the mouse), a switching unit450, a plurality of adjusting mechanisms90a, and a housing50. Each key2includes a pressable portion22and a microswitch200. The microswitch200includes a casing10a, a sound-generating structure80a, and a tactile structure80b. The tactile structure80band the sound-generating structure80aare located on the casing10a. The pressable portion22extends downward a post (not shown), which penetrates into the housing50and abuts against the tactile structure80bof the microswitch200. When the pressable portion22is pressed by an external force, the external force is directly or indirectly transferred to the tactile structure80band/or the sound-generating structure80a, for example, to drive the tactile structure80bto move/rotate or to compress the sound-generating structure80a. The casing10ais disposed on the circuit board3a, and the microswitch200further includes a signal switch OP (FIGS.13A/13B/13C/13D) disposed on the circuit board3a. In response to the movement of the tactile structure80b, the signal switch OP can be triggered to generate the key signal. When the signal switch OP is an optical switch, triggering the signal switch OP generally refers that the movement of the tactile structure80bis used to achieve the operation of blocking-avoiding or avoiding-blocking the optical path of the signal switch OP, so as to determine whether the signal switch OP is triggered based on the change of intensity of the optical signal.

Referring toFIGS.11,12,13A and13B,FIGS.13A and13Billustrate the operation of the tactile structure80bin the mute-on mode. The tactile structure80bin the casing10aof the microswitch200includes a pressable rod801and a linkage member802. The pressable rod801receives the force from the pressable portion22to move downward and press the linkage member802. The L-shaped linkage member802has multiple segments coupled with each other through multiple pivotal connections (three pivotal connections inFIGS.13A/13B). At least two pivots are fixed inside the casing10a(e.g. two outer fixed pivots802ashown inFIG.13A/13B), and partial of the pivots is not fixed on the casing10a(e.g. the middle pivot802bshown inFIG.13A/13B). When the pressable rod801presses the linkage member802, the linkage member802rotates in a segmented manner. The linkage member802receives the force and enters to the state shown inFIG.13B(the pressable portion22and the pressable rod801are at the lowest point) from the state shown inFIG.13A(the pressable portion22and the pressable rod801are at the highest point). Because the total length of the pivotally connected segments of the linkage member802is larger than the distance between the fixed pivots (e.g. the two fixed pivots802aof the linkage member802include a rhombus structure therebetween), the linkage member802will partially deform and restore to generate the keystroke feedback or the tactile feedback of the tactile structure80bof the microswitch200during the pressing process.

InFIGS.13A and13B, the operation path of the sound-generating structure80ais interfered and restricted by the adjusting mechanism90aand cannot be operated normally, so the microswitch200is in the mute-on mode. When the key2is pressed, since the adjusting mechanism90adoes not interfere with the tactile structure80b, the tactile structure80bstill remains to provide the tactile feedback, while the sound-generating structure80acannot be operated normally (cannot generate the hitting sound). Referring toFIG.17, the adjusting mechanism90ahas an upper end901extending horizontally and a lower end902extending vertically. The upper end901has an inclined surface at its distal end portion. In this embodiment, the upper end901of the adjusting mechanism90acorresponds to the adjusting portion in the previous embodiments. When the adjusting mechanism90amoves toward a direction, the lower distal end with the hitting portion814aof the sound-generating structure80ais pressed by the inclined surface of the upper end901of the adjusting mechanism90aand is finally confined on the surface102of the casing10a, as shown inFIGS.13A/13B. When the adjusting mechanism90amoves in a reversed direction, the lower distal end with the hitting portion814aof the sound-generating structure80aalso moves along the inclined surface of the upper end901of the adjusting mechanism90ato be gradually released and is finally attracted by the magnet103to abut below the surface101of the casing10a, as shown inFIG.13C. For example, the sound-generating structure80acan be implemented as a torsion spring or a leaf spring to provide the key2with a given pressing resistance, and the sound-generating structure80acan provide both sound and tactile feedback. The upper end of the sound-generating structure80ais positioned on the bottom of the tactile structure80b, and the lower hitting portion814aof the sound-generating structure80acan selectively move between a pair of surfaces101/102of the casing10a. In the mute-on mode ofFIGS.13A/13B, the lower hitting portion814aof the sound-generating structure80ais interfered to be confined on the surface102. InFIGS.13C and13D, the tactile structure80bis not interfered and not confined so to be in the mute-off mode.

Specifically, inFIGS.13C and13D, the adjusting mechanism90adoes not interfere with the lower hitting portion814aof the sound-generating structure80a, so the lower hitting portion814ais not confined on the surface102. Accordingly, the lower hitting portion814aof the sound-generating structure80acan move between the pair of surfaces101/102of the casing10a. InFIG.13C, the pressable portion22ofFIG.11is in the non-pressed state, and the lower hitting portion814aof the sound-generating structure80ais attracted on the surface101by the magnet103of the casing10a. When the tactile structure80breceives the external force transmitted through the pressable portion22and the pressable rod801, the right half portion of the tactile structure80brotates downward and presses the sound-generating structure80a. Once the elastic force of the sound-generating structure80aaccumulated during pressing exceeds the magnetic force of the magnet103, the lower hitting portion814aof the sound-generating structure80awill escape from the surface101to strongly hit the surface102, so as to generate a hitting sound in response to the pressing operation of the key2as the operation feedback to the user. Although the sound-generating structure80aprovides the hitting sound, inFIGS.130/13D, the sound-generating structure80ais first pressed and then released, so it can also provide a tactile feedback to the user as the key2is pressed. InFIGS.13A/13B, the sound-generating structure80adoes not generate the hitting sound, but the accumulated elastic force during the pressing process is increased until reaching the lowest pressing point and can be considered as a tactile feedback of gradually increased pressing resistance to the user. Therefore, the sound-generating structure80acan provide both tactile and sound feedback, and the tactile feedback perceived by the user is actually the cooperation result of the tactile structure80band the sound-generating structure80a.

Please refer toFIGS.14A and14B,FIGS.15and16, and as needed, refer toFIGS.11and12orFIGS.13A/136/13C/13D. For the input device having multiple keys2(e.g. the mouse left key/right key/middle key (corresponding to the roller)), the switching unit450can be designed to achieve the switching between the mute-on mode and the mute-off mode of the multiple keys2in a single switching operation, and to generate the corresponding switching signal to enable the mode switching of the input device. As such, after the mode switching, when the key2is triggered, the output device LD or SP is enabled to output the corresponding operation feedback, which is different from the operation feedback before the mode switching. For example, a keystroke sound file of different timbre/volume can be outputted, or the audible feedback can be switched to different feedback of attribute, such as light feedback. The switching unit450mainly includes an operating portion451and a switch member452. The operating portion451is physically coupled to the switch member452and two microswitches200. These two microswitches200are respectively disposed at locations corresponding to the pressable portions22of the left and right keys2of the input device (mouse). As such, when the two pressable portions22are pressed, the external force can be transferred to the tactile structures80b(the pressable rods801) of the two microswitches200. The operating portion451which longitudinally extends at one side of the two microswitches200has two connection portions453at two ends. The two connection portions453couple to the lower ends902of the L-shaped adjusting mechanisms90ain a concave-convex configuration, respectively. The switch member452can be implemented as, for example, a slide switch, a pair of conductive electrodes, a capacitive switch, an optical switch, a magnetic switch, or a piezoelectric switch, and can be located between two parallel extension lines of the two microswitches200. The operating portion451is perpendicular to the two parallel extension lines of the two microswitches200. The switch member452has a sliding portion452awhich extends toward the operating portion451. When the operating portion451moves back and forth, the sliding portion452awill slide back and forth to trigger the switch member452, so as to generate different switching signals. Such switching signals are associated with the mode switching of the keys2and the microswitch200thereof between different tactile modes and/or different sound modes. The operating portion451further has a pushing member451a, which extends toward outside of the housing50and passes the operation hole50aof the housing50, so the pushing member451acan be exposed outside the housing50for the user to operate. InFIG.14A, the operating portion451is located near the left side, and the two adjusting mechanisms90are also located near the left side. Meanwhile, the adjusting mechanism90adoes not interfere with the lower hitting portion814aof the sound-generating structure80a, and the lower hitting portion814ais positioned on the surface101of the casing10a(as shown inFIG.13C), i.e., the two keys2and the microswitches200thereof are in the mute-off mode. In such a configuration, when one of the pressable portions22of the two keys2is pressed by an external force, the external force will be transferred to the linkage member802through the tactile structure80b(pressable portion801). The linkage member802rotates to compress the sound-generating structure80auntil the accumulated force of the sound-generating structure80aexceeds the magnetic force of the magnet103, and then the hitting portion814ahits the surface102to generate the hitting sound (FIG.13D). InFIG.14B, the operating portion451moves from the left position to the right position, and the two adjusting mechanisms90also move to the right position. Meanwhile, the adjusting mechanism90ainterferes with the lower hitting portion814aof the sound-generating structure80a, and the hitting portion814ais confined on the surface102of the casing10a(as shown in13A/13B), i.e., the two keys2and the microswitches200thereof are in the mute-on mode. In such a configuration, when one of the pressable portions22of the two keys2is pressed by an external force, although the external force is transferred to the linkage member802through the tactile structure80b(the pressable rod801) to rotate the linkage member802and compress the sound-generating structure80a, the sound-generating structure80amerely accumulates the force to increase the pressing resistance, and the hitting portion814acannot generate the hitting sound (FIG.13A/13B). During the movement of the operating portion451from the left position ofFIG.14Ato the right position ofFIG.14B, the sliding portion452ais driven to slide and trigger the switch member452to generate the switching signal. As such, after switching to the mute-on mode, the output device (the speaker SP or the light device LD ofFIGS.11/12) electrically connected to the input device can output the corresponding keystroke sound file or change the light signal in response to the pressing of the key2as the operation feedback to the user.

FIGS.13A/13B/13C/13D include implicit embodiments different fromFIGS.14A/14B/15/16. For example, the lower end902of the adjustment mechanism90aofFIG.13A/13B/13C/13D can continuously extend to penetrate the casing10a(the through hole100a), the circuit board3a(the board hole30a), and the housing50to be exposed from the operation hole50a. The end portion of lower end902of the adjusting mechanism90acan be formed as the pushing member451afor the user to operate. For the switching of a single key2, the lower end902of the adjusting mechanism90acan function as the operating portion451of the switching unit450. This means that the input device can be provided with multiple operating portions451, multiple switch members452, which respectively correspond to the multiple operating portions451, and each of the switch members452couples to a single microswitch200. Such a configuration can be referred to the design ofFIG.10, so the operation of the switching unit450for a single key2and the microswitch200thereof can generate the switching signal. Accordingly, the multiple keys2of the input device can be independently switched to respective mode for outputting the corresponding operation feedback. Moreover, in the drawings and the embodiments, merely two microswitches200are illustrated for synchronous mode switching or independent mode switching, but not limited thereto. The input device may have two or more than two keys2with the microswitches200to achieve the synchronous switching of the keys2between the mute-on mode and the mute-off mode. For example, the left, middle, and right keys2with their corresponding microswitches200of the mouse (the input device) can be relatively disposed in a triangle configuration, so a T-shaped operating portion451can couple to the three microswitches200and the switch member452to achieve the mode switching operation of the three keys at the same time. In a different embodiment, the operating portion451of the switching unit450can be integrally formed with multiple adjusting mechanisms90ato achieve the synchronous mode switching of the multiple microswitches200/keys2. Moreover, for the mode switching operation itself, the output device can provide switching feedback. For example, the light signal of the light device LD can be used to prompt the user, indicating that the mode switching of the input device is completed or indicating that the input device is in which mode.

Through the device and the method disclosed in the embodiments of the invention, when the key of the input device is switched to the mute-on mode, the user still can listen to the operation sound file corresponding to the first tactile mode via the near-ear device to receive the corresponding audible feedback or visual/haptic feedback. Moreover, when the key of the input device is in the mute-on mode without generating the hitting sound (operating sound), the output device can still play the operation sound file at a given volume or provide the visual/haptic operation feedback in response to the tactile mode switching of the key, so as to satisfy the feedback demand of the user on different operation situations. No matter whether the input device has a built-in output device, the input device is directly connected to the output device, or the input device is connected to the output device through the host, the output device can respond to the switching event of the tactile mode and/or the sound mode of the input device. In other words, in response to the switching signal and the input signal, the output device can output the operation sound file or the visual/haptic operation feedback corresponding to the current tactile mode/sound mode of the input device. In addition, for the synchronous mode switching of multiple keys, the operating portion of the switching unit can be connected to all adjusting mechanisms and the switch member, so when the tactile structures or the sound-generating structures are adjusted by the adjusting mechanisms, the switch member is also triggered to generate the switching signal to enable the output device to output different operation feedback after the mode switching operation.

Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described herein, the above description is merely illustrative. The preferred embodiments disclosed will not limit the scope of the present invention. Further modification of the invention herein disclosed will occur to those skilled in the respective arts and all such modifications are deemed to be within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.