PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11990292-B2
Application Number: US-202217934321-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Button mechanism with stabilizing dome

Abstract:
A computing device can include a housing defining an opening, a base layer, and a button mechanism positioned in the opening. The button mechanism can include a keycap movable relative to the base layer between an undepressed state and a depressed state, and a dome contacting the keycap, the dome including a first surface and a second surface, opposite the first surface. In the undepressed state, the first surface can be concave and the second surface can be convex. In a partially depressed state, a first portion of the first surface can be convex and a second portion of the first surface can be concave. In the depressed state, the first surface can be convex and the second surface can be concave.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A computing device comprising:
 a housing defining an opening; 
 a base layer; and 
 a button mechanism positioned in the opening, the button mechanism comprising:
 a keycap movable relative to the base layer between an undepressed state and a depressed state; and 
 a dome contacting the keycap, the dome comprising a first surface and a second surface, opposite the first surface; 
 
 wherein:
 in the undepressed state, the first surface is concave and the second surface is convex; 
 in a partially depressed state, a first portion of the first surface is convex and a second portion of the first surface is concave; and 
 in the depressed state, the first portion and the second portion of the first surface are convex and the second surface is concave. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The computing device of  claim 1 , further comprising a protrusion, the dome pressable into the protrusion as the keycap moves between the undepressed state and the depressed state. 
     
     
       3. The computing device of  claim 2 , wherein the protrusion defines a torus shape. 
     
     
       4. The computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the dome comprises a metal material. 
     
     
       5. The computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the dome is biased to be concave at the first surface. 
     
     
       6. The computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the dome is collapsible in response to a rotation of the dome. 
     
     
       7. The computing device of  claim 1 , wherein in the partially depressed state, the keycap is tilted. 
     
     
       8. The computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the dome comprises a set of corners, wherein the computing device further comprises a ridge positioned beneath each corner of the set of corners of the dome. 
     
     
       9. The computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the dome is configured to transfer a force from a first end of the keycap to a second end of the keycap, the second end being opposite the first end. 
     
     
       10. The computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the dome comprises a step configured to buckle to collapse the dome. 
     
     
       11. A key comprising:
 an input member operative to move from a first position to a second position; 
 a collapsible stabilizer supporting the input member; and 
 a baseplate supporting the collapsible stabilizer, the baseplate defining a ridge; 
 wherein, in response to an off-center portion of the collapsible stabilizer being pressed against the ridge, the collapsible stabilizer inverts. 
 
     
     
       12. The key of  claim 11 , wherein the baseplate comprises multiple ridges, each ridge corresponding to a corner of the input member. 
     
     
       13. The key of  claim 11 , wherein the collapsible stabilizer provides tactile feedback in response to collapsing. 
     
     
       14. The key of  claim 11 , wherein the collapsible stabilizer equalizes a motion of the input member. 
     
     
       15. The key of  claim 11 , further comprising a sound dampening layer. 
     
     
       16. A key mechanism comprising:
 a keycap movable between a first position to a second position; 
 a spring comprising a first end and a second end, the second end being opposite the first end, the first end and the second end being biased in a first direction; and 
 a fulcrum engageable with the spring, the fulcrum being offset from a center of the spring; 
 wherein in response to the first end pivoting about the fulcrum, the second end is biased in a second direction, the second direction being opposite the first direction. 
 
     
     
       17. The key mechanism of  claim 16 , wherein the spring is attached to the keycap. 
     
     
       18. The key mechanism of  claim 16 , wherein, in response to movement of the first end of the spring in the second direction, the spring pulls the second end of the keycap in the second direction. 
     
     
       19. The key mechanism of  claim 16 , further defining an electrical contact movable through an aperture defined by the spring. 
     
     
       20. The key mechanism of  claim 16 , wherein the spring is bi-stable.

Description:
FIELD 
     The disclosure relates generally to a switch assembly for an electronic device and, more particularly, to a switch assembly having a dome that acts as a parallel motion mechanism. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Electronic devices typically include one or more input devices such as keyboards, touchpads, mice, or touchscreens to enable a user to interact with the device. These input devices can be integrated into an electronic device or can stand alone as discrete devices that can transmit signals to another device or to a processor via wired or wireless connection. For example, a keyboard can be integrated into the casing or housing of a laptop computer, and can transmit signals or otherwise provide inputs to a processor of the laptop computer. 
     Keyboards typically include multiple individual keys. Each individual key may include multiple components, such as a keycap or other input surface for receiving physical input from a user, mechanisms for supporting the keycap, and electrical components that allow the electronic device to detect when a key has been pressed. There is a constant need for improvements and refinements to keyboards and related input mechanisms. 
     SUMMARY 
     According to some aspects of the present disclosure, a computing device can include a housing defining an opening, a base layer, and a button mechanism positioned in the opening. The button mechanism can include a keycap movable relative to the base layer between an undepressed state and a depressed state, and a dome contacting the keycap, the dome including a first surface and a second surface, opposite the first surface. In the undepressed state, the first surface can be concave and the second surface can be convex. In a partially depressed state, a first portion of the first surface can be convex and a second portion of the first surface can be concave. In the depressed state, the first surface can be convex and the second surface can be concave. 
     In some examples, the computing device can include a protrusion, the dome pressable into the protrusion as the keycap moves between the undepressed state and the depressed state. The protrusion can define a ring-like shape. The dome can include a metal material. The dome can be biased to be concave at the first surface. The dome can be collapsible in response to a rotation of the dome. 
     In some examples, in the partially depressed state, the keycap can be tilted. The dome can include a set of corners, wherein the computing device includes a ridge positioned beneath each corner of the set of corners of the dome. 
     The dome can transfer a force from a first end of the keycap to a second end of the keycap, the second end being opposite the first end. The dome can include a step that buckles to collapse the dome. 
     According to some aspects, a key can include an input member operative to move from a first position to a second position, a collapsible stabilizer supporting the input member, a baseplate supporting the collapsible stabilizer, the baseplate defining a ridge. In response to an off-center portion of the collapsible stabilizer being pressed against the ridge, the collapsible stabilizer can invert. 
     In some examples, the baseplate can include multiple ridges, each ridge corresponding to a corner of the input member. The collapsible stabilizer can provide a tactile feedback in response to collapsing. The collapsible stabilizer can equalize a motion of the input member. The key can include a sound dampening layer. 
     According to some aspects, a key mechanism can include a keycap movable between a first position to a second position, a spring including a first end and a second end, the second end being opposite the first end, the first end and the second end being biased in a first direction, and a fulcrum engageable with the spring, the fulcrum being offset from a center of the spring. In response to the first end pivoting about the fulcrum, the second end is biased in a second direction, the second direction being opposite the first direction. 
     In some examples, the spring can be attached to the keycap. In response to movement of the first end of the spring in the second direction, the spring can pull the second end of the keycap in the second direction. The key mechanism can define an electrical contact movable through an aperture defined by the spring. The spring can be bi-stable. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG.  1    shows a perspective view of a computing device. 
         FIG.  2    shows a perspective exploded view of a button mechanism. 
         FIG.  3 A  shows a side view of a button mechanism in an undepressed state. 
         FIG.  3 B  shows a side view of the button mechanism of  FIG.  3 A  in a partially depressed state. 
         FIG.  3 C  shows a side view of the button mechanism of  FIG.  3 A  in a depressed state. 
         FIG.  4    shows a perspective exploded view of a button mechanism. 
         FIG.  5 A  shows a side view of a button mechanism in an undepressed state, as taken through section lines  5 - 5  in  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  5 B  shows a side view of the button mechanism of  FIG.  5 A  in a partially depressed state. 
         FIG.  5 C  shows a side view of the button mechanism of  FIG.  5 A  in a depressed state. 
         FIG.  6    shows a perspective exploded view of a button mechanism. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     The following disclosure relates generally to switch assemblies, also referred to as button mechanisms. More particularly, the following disclosure relates to switch assemblies that include a dome that transfers a force from one end of the dome to another, opposite end of the dome. In some examples, the dome acts as a force transfer mechanism. In some examples, the dome acts as a key stabilizer. The dome can be referred to as a collapsible stabilizer or spring. As used herein, the term “stabilizer” can refer to a component that provides uniform motion of the keycap, prevents tilting of the keycap, transfers forces in the keycap, equalizes motion of the keycap, and/or enables parallel motion of the keycap, especially in situations where the keycap is pressed off-center and would otherwise have a tendency to tilt or rotate one end lower than the opposite end thereof. In some examples, the dome acts as a parallel motion mechanism that enables the keycap to keep its major surface substantially parallel with a frame or baseplate during a keypress, even a keypress made to (or near to) a corner or edge of the keycap. Such switch assemblies may be used in input mechanisms such as keyboard keys, buttons, or the like and are able to achieve thinner and lighter keyboards that are less expensive to build and that require fewer parts. 
     In some embodiments, the switch assembly includes a stop or protrusion attached to or extending from a baseplate. The stop can be positioned such that the dome contacts the stop when being pressed downward. The stop can act as a fulcrum or pivot point about which the dome bends, rotates, pivots, or collapses. In some examples, the stop can extend from a bottom of the dome and can be positioned to contact the baseplate. The button mechanisms described herein advantageously have a reduced thickness and reduced complexity by removing the need for a separate stabilizer or parallel motion mechanism (e.g., a scissor mechanism or butterfly mechanism). The button mechanisms described herein can have a thin architecture with approximately a 2.35-millimeter stackup depth and a key stroke of approximately 0.75 millimeters. 
     Although structures, operations, and methods of manufacture are described herein with respect to a key of a keyboard, it should be appreciated that the instant disclosure is equally applicable to other input devices. Thus, mice, input buttons, trackpads, and the like may also incorporate the concepts described herein. The foregoing and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS.  1 - 6   . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
     Furthermore, as used herein, a system, a method, an article, a component, a feature, or a sub-feature comprising at least one of a first option, a second option, or a third option should be understood as referring to a system, a method, an article, a component, a feature, or a sub-feature that can include one of each listed option (e.g., only one of the first option, only one of the second option, or only one of the third option), multiple of a single listed option (e.g., two or more of the first option), two options simultaneously (e.g., one of the first option and one of the second option), or combination thereof (e.g., two of the first option and one of the second option). 
       FIG.  1    depicts an example electronic device  100  including a keyboard assembly  104 , according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In a non-limiting example, the electronic device  100  may be a laptop computer, though other devices are also contemplated (e.g., desktop or tablet computers, peripheral input devices (e.g., desktop keyboards), kiosks, point of sale registers, control boards, macro pads, numpads, calculators, etc.). The device  100  may incorporate a keyboard  104  that includes a set of button mechanisms  106  that include a stabilizing dome, as described herein. 
     The electronic device  100  may include a top case  102 . The top case  102  may take the form of an exterior, protective casing, shell, housing, frame, or web for the electronic device  100  and the various internal components (for example, the keyboard assembly  104 ) of the electronic device  100 . The top case  102  may be formed as a single, integral component or may have a group of distinct components configured to be coupled to one another. Additionally, the top case  102  may be formed from any suitable material that provides a protective casing or shell for the electronic device  100  and the various components included in the electronic device  100 . In non-limiting examples, the top case  102  may be made from metal, a ceramic, a rigid plastic or another polymer, a fiber-matrix composite, and so on. In some embodiments, the top case  102  can include a first portion acting as a structural support or shell and a second portion extending between the keys of the keyboard assembly  104  and acting as a key web or key mechanism support. 
     Keycaps or other portions of the button mechanisms  106  may partially protrude from the top case  102  and each may be substantially surrounded by a portion of the top case  102  (e.g., a web or frame portion of the top case  102 ). That is, the button mechanisms  106  of the keyboard assembly  104  may extend beyond (e.g., above) a surface of the top case  102  and may be divided or separated by a portion of top case  102 . 
     In the non-limiting example shown in  FIG.  1   , where the electronic device  100  is a laptop computer, the keyboard assembly  104  may be positioned within and/or may be received by the electronic device  100 . In an additional embodiment, the keyboard assembly  104  may be a separate and distinct freestanding component and may be in electronic communication (for example, via wired or wireless communications techniques) with the electronic device  100  or a different electronic device such as a tablet or desktop computer. 
     Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in  FIG.  1    can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in  FIG.  1   . Example structures of an individual key are discussed in more detail below with respect to  FIGS.  2 - 6   . 
       FIG.  2    shows a perspective exploded view of a button mechanism  206 . The button mechanism  206  can be positioned in a device, such as device  100 . The button mechanism  206  can include a keycap  208  (i.e., a button cap or input member), a dome  212 , a stop  216 , and a substrate  220 . The substrate  220  (also referred to as a base layer or baseplate) can be a printed circuit board having an electrical contact. In some examples, the keycap  208  is not coupled to a hinge, scissor mechanism, or other vertical biasing mechanism or stabilizer aside from the dome  212 . In other words, the keycap  208  can be supported by the dome  212  and stop  216  and can be biased upward (i.e., away from the substrate  220 ) without any other additional supports or hinged mechanisms linking the keycap  208  to the substrate  220 . Upward motion of the keycap  208  can be limited by contact between the periphery of the keycap  208  and the top case  102 , such as contact between a top surface of the keycap  208  and a bottom surface of the top case  102 . Although the keycap  208  is illustrated as being approximately square, it will be appreciated that the button mechanism  206  can also be successfully implemented, and is contemplated for use, with an elongated keycap. In such examples, the dome  212  can likewise be elongated and rectangular. Furthermore, in some embodiments, for an elongated keycap, the dome can have its square shape and an additional stabilizer or other support can be used to keep the top of the keycap substantially perpendicular to the direction of travel (i.e., keep the keycap parallel to a horizontal plane), even when only one corner or peripheral side of the keycap is pressed. 
     The dome  212  can be metal. The metal used to construct the dome  212  can be selected based on its ability to be thin while having a sufficiently high Young&#39;s modulus. For example, the dome  212  can be about 0.05 mm thick, yet still be able to elastically deform and return in response to a key press. The dome  212  may allow the keycap  208  to be moved from an undepressed state to a depressed state in response to an actuation force applied to the top surface of the keycap  208 . 
     As discussed in greater detail below, the dome  212  may be positioned below the keycap  208  such that depression of the keycap  208  subsequently deflects the dome  212 . Simultaneously, that movement can close a switch or use a portion of the dome  212  to complete an electrical connection or path, thereby triggering a “key make” or generate an electrical signal. An electronic device (e.g., the electronic device  100 ) may detect the completion of the electrical connection or path and register a key input based upon the detection. 
     As shown in  FIG.  2   , the button mechanism  206  can include a stop  216 . The stop  216  can also be referred to as a pusher, a ring, a pusher ring, a protrusion, a ridge, or a fulcrum. The stop  216  can be a separate component that is positioned between the dome  212  and the substrate  220 . The stop  216  can be attached to the substrate  220 . The stop  216  can also be a unitary or integral component with the substrate  220 . In some examples, the stop  216  is attached to the dome  212 . The stop  216  can be integrally formed from the dome  212 . 
     The stop  216  can be circular through a cross-section and define a ring-like or torus shape. In some examples, the size, shape, and position of the stop can depend on, or be proportional to the size, shape, and position of the dome  212 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  2   , the center of the stop  216  ring can be coaxially aligned with a center of the dome  212  and/or keycap  208 . However, as is described in greater detail below, in some examples, the stop can comprise a set of protrusions that are offset from a center of the dome  212 . More specifically, the button mechanism  206  can include multiple stops that are offset from a central axis of the dome  212 . 
     The dome  212  and the stop  216  can press against one another when the keycap  208  is depressed. Specifically, the dome  212  can move downward to contact or press against the stop  216 . Accordingly, the stop  216  may impart a counter force on the dome  212  (i.e., it may push back), which causes the dome  212  to buckle, bend, or collapse. The interaction between the dome  212  and the stop  216  can more evenly distribute the force applied to the keycap  208  (e.g., when the keycap  208  is tilted by being pressed on an edge or a corner). By transferring the force through the dome  212 , an off-center press can still cause collapse of the entire dome  216 , which in turn causes a substantially parallel/uniform motion of the keycap  208 . Causing a substantially parallel or uniform motion of the keycap  208  can be referred to as “equalizing” motion of the keycap  208 . Equalizing motion of the keycap  208  can include correcting for a tilt or non-parallel motion in the keycap  208 , to provide parallel motion or full collapse of the keycap  208 . 
     The dome  212  may be attached to the keycap  208 , such as by being attached to the keycap at each corner of the dome  212 . In some examples, the dome  212  is constrained by the keycap  208  so that the dome  212  must be bent or flexed in a certain way to enable withdrawal of tabs on the dome  212  from receiving recesses on the keycap  208 . Thus, the dome  212  may be substantially secured or retained to prevent or limit the dome  212  from moving in an undesired direction (e.g., horizontally or perpendicular to the direction of depression). In some examples, the dome  212  can define one or more holes or apertures  214 . The holes  214  in the dome  212  can be positioned and shaped to promote buckling of the dome in a certain manner. The holes can decrease a stiffness and increase a flexibility of the dome  212 . As described below, the hole(s) can enable contact between a conductive component on the keycap  208  and substrate  220 . The holes or apertures  214  can cause the dome  212  to have a substantially cross-shaped central bridge portion with crossing portions that are oriented along diagonal axes extending between the corners of the dome  212 . 
     Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in  FIG.  2    can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in  FIG.  2   . 
       FIG.  3 A  shows a schematic side view of a button mechanism  306  in an undepressed or rest state. It will be understood that for simplicity only select component or features of the button mechanism  306  are shown. The depiction of  FIG.  3 A  is not intended to be exhaustive. The button mechanism  306  can be substantially similar to, including some or all of the features of, the button mechanisms described herein, such as button mechanisms  106  and  206 . 
     The button mechanism  306  can include a keycap  308 , a dome  312 , stops  316   a ,  316   b  (collectively referred to as stops  316 ), and a substrate  320 . As shown in  FIG.  3 A , in a natural or rest state when the keycap  308  is not pressed (i.e., an undepressed state), the keycap  308  can be substantially parallel with the substrate  320 . The dome  312  can include a first surface  313  (i.e., a top surface or keycap-facing surface) and a second surface  315  (i.e., a bottom surface, base-facing surface, or substrate-facing surface). The first surface  313  and the second surface  315  can be major surfaces of the dome  312  and can be opposite one another. In some examples, the first surface  313  can be referred to as an upper surface. The second surface  315  can be referred to as a lower surface of the dome  312 . 
     The stops  316  can be separate, distinct components, or can be a unitary component, such as a ring-shaped stop (e.g.,  216 ). As shown in  FIG.  3 A , in an undepressed state, the dome  312  can be curved such that the first surface  313  of the dome  312  is predominantly concave, and the second surface  315  of the dome  312  is predominantly convex. In some examples, the second surface  315  of the dome  312  directly contacts, touches, or rests on the stops  316 . The dome  312  and keycap  308  can be supported, partially or entirely, by the stop  316 . In other words, the weight of the keycap  308  and the dome  312  can rest on the stop  316 . In some embodiments, one or more portions of the dome  312  can be bottom-supported by contact with the substrate  320  and may or may not contact the stops  316  in that state. 
     The dome  312  can include one or more steps  314   a ,  314   b  (collectively referred to as steps  314 ). The steps  314  can be breaks, joints, elbows, reliefs, or any other dome shape feature that collapses, bends, snaps or otherwise pivots in response to pressure applied to the dome by one or more stops  316 . In some embodiments, the pressure against the step(s)  314  can invert a region of the dome  312 . In some examples, the steps  314  can be specifically designed to have a lower strength or stability threshold on the dome  312  such that the location of the steps  314  are the first to deform in response to a force on the keycap  308 . 
       FIG.  3 B  shows a side view of the button mechanism  306  in a tilted or partially depressed state. The tilt or rotation of the keycap  308  shown in  FIG.  3 B  can be caused by a force F applied to a peripheral edge or corner of the keycap  308 . As the off-center force F is applied, pressure against the dome  312  against the stop  316   a  increases relative to pressure at stop  316   b , thereby causing the step  314   a  to buckle, flatten, and invert. In other words, the first surface  313  at step  314   a  can transition from being concave to being flat or convex. In response to the off-center force F, the dome  312  can partially deform or deflect. As illustrated, the dome  312  can deform such that a portion of the dome inverts while a different portion of the dome  312  is less affected and uncollapsed. In other words, in response to the force F being applied to an edge or corner of the keycap  308 , a portion of the first surface  313  bends to be convex. Thus, in a partially depressed state, the first surface  313  of the dome  312  can be partially concave and partially convex. Likewise, the second surface  315  can be partially concave (at  314   a ) and partially convex (at  314   b ) during an off-center key press. Collapse of the step  314   a  can generate a wave or cascading buckle (i.e., a force or motion wave) in the dome  312  which propagates across the dome  312  away from the side of the dome contacting the stop  316   a  and which causes the step  314   b  to collapse, thereby drawing the opposite side of the keycap  308  downward as well. See  FIG.  3 C . 
     In some examples, the angle of the steps  314  can determine the necessary force to collapse the dome  312 . For example, the more angled the steps  314  the more force is necessary to cause the steps  314  to buckle. Likewise, the flatter the steps  314  the less force is needed to invert the steps  314 . Furthermore, the steps  314  need not be angular (i.e., with relatively straight cross-sections that come together at each step  314 ) and can instead have smoothly curved cross-sections. In some embodiments, the dome  312  can have a smoothly curved cross-section extending from one keycap-attached end of the dome  312  to an opposite keycap-attached end thereof, similar to a U-shape resting on (or movable into contact with) the stops  316 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  3 C , the collapse or deformation of the step  314   a  can cause the step  314   b  to also collapse and invert its curvature, in which case the entire dome  312  can transition to a fully collapsed or inverted state. For example, collapse of the step  314   a  can cause collapse of step  314   b  due to bending in the center of the dome  312 , which in turn pulls on the undepressed side of the keycap  308  (e.g., generates a downward force drawing down the other side of the keycap  308 ), which then fully depresses the keycap  308  and produces a parallel motion or stabilizing motion of the keycap  308 . Thus, the dome  312  acts as a motion stabilizer to distribute forces throughout the keycap  308  and provide uniform motion. In other words, both sides of the keycap  308  move downward even when only one side of the keycap  308  is pressed, and the keycap remains substantially parallel to the substrate  320  (i.e., has a top surface that remains substantially perpendicular to a horizontal direction), even though the keycap  308  may at least temporarily tilt while it is partially depressed. 
     In contrast, traditional button mechanisms generally require a separate stabilizing element to prevent tilting of the keycap in response to an off-center push. Advantageously, the dome  312  and stops  316  of the button mechanism  306  can reduce or eliminate the need for a separate stabilizing component for the keycap  308 , especially in cases where the dome  312  extends across the entire width of the keycap  308  and when the keycap  308  is square. By designing the dome with a specific geometry and positioning the dome adjacent the stop  316 , the dome  312  is able to transfer a force of a tilted keycap  308  to an opposing end of the keycap  308 . 
     After collapse, upward movement of the center of the dome  312  can be limited or constrained by contact with the bottom surface of the keycap  308 , as shown in  FIG.  3 C . In other words, the dome  312  can come into contact with the bottom surface of the keycap  308 . In some examples, the dome  312  provides a tactile feedback in response to being pressed. The collapse of the dome (e.g., via the inverting of the steps  314 ) can produce a “click” type vibration pulse feeling and/or sound. In some examples, the haptic feedback is produced by the dome  312  hitting a bottom of the keycap  308  as the dome  312  collapses. In some examples, the steps  314  produce the haptic feedback. Even upon full collapse, the dome  312  can be biased toward its original state. Thus, once the force (e.g. a user&#39;s finger) is removed the dome  312  reverts to its original shape, thereby moving the keycap  308  to the undepressed position shown in  FIG.  3 A . 
     In some examples, the dome  312  is bi-stable, with one stable position being when the first surface  313  is concave (as shown in  FIG.  3 A ), and the dome transitions to another stable (or semi-stable) position being when the first surface  313  is convex (as shown in  FIG.  3 C ). In some embodiments, the button mechanism  306  can include an additional return mechanism to return the keycap  308  to the undepressed position. 
     Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in  FIGS.  3 A- 3 C  can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in  FIGS.  3 A- 3 C . 
       FIG.  4    shows a perspective exploded view of a button mechanism  406 . The button mechanism  406  can be substantially similar to, and can include some or all of the features of, the button mechanisms described herein, such as button mechanisms  106 ,  206 , and  306 . The button mechanism  406  can include a frame  424 , a keycap  408 , a film  409 , a dome  412 , a stop  416 , an electrical contact  428 , a membrane  432 , and a baseplate  420 . 
     In some examples, the button mechanism includes a film  409  that is positioned adjacent or molded onto the dome  412 . The film  409  may be a substantially compliant material, such as a silicone or other elastomeric material. The film  409  can act as a sound dampener to dampen the sound of the dome  412  as it collapses. Thus, the film  409  can be referred to as a sound dampening layer. The film  409  may be formed from or include a flexible material. The flexibility of the film  409  may accommodate movement or deformation of the dome  412  when the keycap  408  is depressed. In some examples, the film  409  may be attached or affixed to the dome  412  around an outer edge or perimeter of the film  409 , which may also contribute to the ability of the film  409  to accommodate movement or deformation in response to a force from a keycap or other actuation member. In some examples, the film  409  can substantially seal a gap between a perimeter of the keycap  408  and the frame  424 . In some embodiments, the film  409  can be formed with or attached to a bottom surface of the keycap  408 . 
     When an actuation force is applied to the keycap  408 , the keycap  408  (or a component thereof) may deform or deflect in such a way that an electrical or conductive connection is formed, thus allowing an input to be detected. As illustrated, the dome  412  can include a hole  414  or aperture positioned in a center of the dome  412 . In some examples, the hole  414  accommodates the passage of the electrical contact  428  through the hole  414 . In some examples, the electrical contact  428  is attached to the membrane  432 . Upon depressing the keycap  408 , the electrical contact  428  passes through the hole  414  to contact the keycap or a conductive component (e.g.,  417 ) attached to or integrated with an underside of the keycap  408 . In some examples, the membrane  432  may include an electrical terminal  419 . The electrical terminal may be molded in or otherwise integrated with the membrane  432 . For example, a metal terminal  419  may be placed into a mold, and then material forming the membrane  432  may be introduced into the mold, at least partially encapsulating the metal terminal(s)  419  in the membrane  432 . 
     One or more electrical terminals  419  may have exposed portions on the membrane  432 . The exposed portion of the terminal  419  may be positioned so that the electrical contact  428  contacts the exposed portion of the terminal  419  when the dome  412  is collapsed due to actuation of the keycap  408 . This in turn forms an electrical path between the electrical contact  428  and the terminal  419  in the membrane  432 . 
     In order to ensure proper functioning of the button mechanism  406 , the size/location of the stop  416  can be based on the size and shape of the dome  412 . In some examples, the more curved the dome  412  (i.e., if the dome has a relatively small radius of concave top surface curvature), the smaller the diameter of the stop  416  needs to be in order to buckle the dome  412  in response to a force. Likewise, when the dome  412  is less curved (i.e., a larger radius of concave top surface curvature), the stop  416  may have a larger diameter. The size/position of the stop  416  can be based on the location of the steps or reliefs (e.g., steps  314 ) in the dome  412 . For example, the stop  416  can be designed to be disposed directly beneath the steps in the dome  412 . In some embodiments, the stop  416  can be configured to engage the dome at a position radially internal to a step (e.g.,  314 ) of the dome  412 . Furthermore, the dome  412  can have a substantially square shape with four corners. The corners can extend from and be spaced around a central circular, cylindrical, or spherical portion, and the step features (e.g.,  314 ) can transition between the square and circular perimeters. 
     Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in  FIG.  4    can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in  FIG.  4   . 
       FIGS.  5 A- 5 C  show perspective side cross-sections of the progression of a button mechanism  506  as it is depressed.  FIGS.  5 A- 5 C  are viewed along section line  5 - 5  of  FIG.  1   .  FIG.  5 A  shows a side cross-sectional view of a button mechanism  506  in an undepressed or rest state. It will be understood that for simplicity only select component or features of the button mechanism  506  are shown in  FIG.  5 A . The depiction of  FIG.  5 A  is not intended to be exhaustive. The button mechanism  506  can be substantially similar to, including some or all of the features of, the button mechanisms described herein, such as button mechanisms  106 ,  206 ,  306 , and  406 . 
     The button mechanism  506  can include a frame  524 , a keycap  508 , a dome  512 , stops  516   a ,  516   b  (collectively stops  516 ), and a substrate  520 . The dome  512  can include a upper surface and a lower surface (as oriented in  FIG.  5 A ). The upper surface and the lower surface can be major surfaces of the dome  512  and can be opposite one another. The button mechanism  506  can include one or more stops  516 . In some examples, the stops  516  include opposite ends of a ring, such as illustrated in  FIG.  4   . The stops  516  can be separate, distinct components from the substrate  520 , or can be a unitary component with the substrate  520 . In other words, the stops  516  can extend from the substrate  520 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  5 A , in an undepressed state, the dome  512  can be curved such that the upper surface of the dome  512  is primarily concave, and the lower surface of the dome  512  is primarily convex. In some examples, the lower surface of the dome  512  directly contacts or touches the stop  516 . In some examples, dome  512  and keycap  508  is supported, partially or entirely, at the interface between the dome  512  and the stop  516 . 
     The dome  512  can include one or more bend regions  514   a ,  514   b  (collectively referred to as bend regions  514 ). The bend regions  514  can be portions of the dome  512  that have a maximum bend or curvature when a force, such as force F 1 , is applied. For example, the bend region  514   a  can be the first portions of the dome to bend, collapse, invert, or deflect in response to the force F 1 . In response to the deflection at bend region  514   a , the bend region  514   b  can invert or bend to generate a pull force F 2  on the keycap  508  (see  FIG.  5 C ). The bend regions  514  can be implemented as steps, breaks, joints, elbows, reliefs, or any other feature that collapses, bends, snaps or otherwise pivots to invert a region of the dome  512  (e.g., as shown in  FIG.  5 B ). In some examples, the bend regions  514  can be specifically designed to have a lower strength or stability threshold such that the location of the bend regions  514  are the first to deform in response to a force on the keycap  508 . 
       FIG.  5 B  shows a side view of the button mechanism  506  in a tilted or partially depressed state. The tilt shown in  FIG.  5 B  can be caused by a force F 1  applied to an edge or corner of the keycap  508 . As the force F 1  is applied, the dome  512  presses against the stop  516   a , causing the bend region  514   a  to buckle. In response to the off-center force F 1 , the dome  512  can partially deform or deflect. As illustrated, the dome  512  can deform such that a portion of the dome inverts while a different portion of the dome  512  is momentarily not inverted. In other words, in response to the force F 1  being applied to an edge or corner of the keycap  508 , a portion of the upper surface bends to be convex. Thus, in a partially depressed state, the upper surface of the dome  512  can be partially concave (as shown on the left) and partially convex (as shown on the right). 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  5 C , the collapse or deformation of the bend region  514   a  can cause the entire dome  512  to collapse or invert. For example, collapse of the bend region  514   a  can cause collapse of the bend region  514   b , which in turn pulls or generates a force F 2  on the undepressed side of the keycap  508  which fully depressed the keycap  508 . Thus, the dome  512  acts as a motion stabilizer to distribute forces throughout the keycap and provide uniform motion. In contrast, traditional button mechanisms require a separate stabilizing element to prevent tilting of the keycap in response to off-center pushed. Advantageously, the dome  512  and stops  516  of the button mechanism  506  remove the need for a separate stabilizing component. Other features and characteristics of dome  312  described in connection with  FIGS.  3 A- 3 C  can be applied to dome  512  and the rest of mechanism  506 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  5 A- 5 C , the dome  512  may include ends  505 , such as a corner or flange connected to a portion of the keycap  508 . In some examples, the dome  512  may be positioned within and/or coupled to recesses  507  formed in a corner, wall, or edge of the keycap  508 . The recess  507  may extend only partially into the keycap  508 . The keycap  508  may define a surface of a cavity into which the ends  505  of the dome  512  extend. Typically, although not necessarily, multiple ends  505  project from a single dome to couple or attach to multiple recesses  507  in the keycap  508 . The button mechanism  506  can include additional features for securing the dome  512  to the keycap  508 . For example, the keycap  508  and/or the dome  512  can include one or more features such as barbs or protrusions, adhesive positioned within the recesses, compression or friction fit surfaces or features, and/or other features that secure the corners of the dome within the recesses  507 . In some examples, the dome  512  is heat staked to the keycap  508 . 
     In some examples, the frame  524  can include a lip  509 . The lip  509  can extend inward form the frame  524  and can be designed to contact a portion of the keycap  508 , such as a flange extending from the corners of the keycap  508 , to prevent or limit upward movement of the keycap  508  beyond the lip  509 . Thus, the lip  509  can at least partially constrain the keycap  508 . The frame  524  can include sidewalls that further constrain or limit movement of the keycap  508  to the vertical direction (as oriented in  FIGS.  5 A- 5 C ). 
     Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in  FIGS.  5 A- 5 C  can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in  FIGS.  5 A- 5 C . 
       FIG.  6    shows a perspective exploded view of a button mechanism  606 . The button mechanism  606  can be substantially similar to, and can include some or all of the features of, the button mechanisms described herein, such as button mechanisms  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 , and  506 . The button mechanism  606  can include a frame  624 , a keycap  608 , a film  609 , a dome  612 , a stop  616 , an electrical contact  628 , a membrane  632 , and a baseplate  620 . 
     When the actuation force is applied to the keycap  608 , the keycap  608  (or a component thereof) may deform or deflect in such a way that an electrical or conductive connection is formed, thus allowing an input to be detected. In some examples, the dome  612  can include a tongue or electrical contact  628 . The electrical contact  628  can be integrally formed from the dome  612 . For example, the contact  628  can be a piece of the dome  612  that extends into a hole  614  in the center of the dome  612 . The contact  628  can be configured to establish an electrical path or communication with an electrical component  617 ,  619  of the button mechanism  606  in response to the dome  612  collapsing. 
     An electrical terminal  619  may have exposed portions on the membrane  632 . The exposed portion of the terminal  619  may be positioned so that the electrical contact  628  contacts the exposed portion of the terminal when the dome  612  is collapsed due to actuation of the keycap  608 . This in turn forms an electrical path between the electrical contact  628  and the terminal  619  in the membrane  632 . 
     In some examples, the stops  616  can be ridges or bumps formed in the baseplate  620 . For example, the baseplate can include arms extending from a center of the baseplate  620 . The arms can correspond to corners of the dome  612 . The arms can include ridges  616  that rise upward toward the dome  612  such that when the dome  612  is depressed it contacts or pressed against the ridges  616 , thereby causing the dome  612  to collapse. It will be understood that in order to collapse, the dome  612  need only be pressed against one of the ridges  616 . Indeed, when only a corner of the keycap  608  is pressed, the dome  612  may only come into contact with one of the ridges  616  before collapsing. In this manner, the ridge or stop  616  that causes the dome  612  to collapse is offset from a center of the button mechanism  606 . 
     Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in  FIG.  6    can be included, either alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Likewise, any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown and described with reference to the other figures can be included, either alone or in any combination, in the example of the devices, features, components, and parts shown in  FIG.  6   . 
     The button mechanisms described herein are capable of reduced the thickness or z-height of the assembly stack up. The total thickness of the button mechanism can be about 2.35 mm. The stop or pusher can have a height of about 0.35 mm. The keycap can have a thickness of about 0.8 mm. The dome can have a thickness of about 0.05 mm. The membrane can have a thickness of about 0.25 mm. The baseplate can have a thickness of about 0.15 mm. The button mechanism can have a clearance between the keycap and the baseplate of about 1.05 mm. The button mechanisms described herein are capable of producing a peak force of about 60 gf, a bottom force of about 7.5 gf, a peak stroke of about 0.2 mm to about 0.25 mm, a bottom stroke of about 0.55 mm to about 0.6 mm, a stroke of about 0.75 mm, and a click ration of about 75%. 
     To the extent applicable to the present technology, gathering and use of data available from various sources can be used to improve the delivery to users of invitational content or any other content that may be of interest to them. The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, this gathered data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data can include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, TWITTER® ID&#39;s, home addresses, data or records relating to a user&#39;s health or level of fitness (e.g., vital signs measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information. 
     The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data, in the present technology, can be used to the benefit of users. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that is of greater interest to the user. Accordingly, use of such personal information data enables users to calculated control of the delivered content. Further, other uses for personal information data that benefit the user are also contemplated by the present disclosure. For instance, health and fitness data may be used to provide insights into a user&#39;s general wellness, or may be used as positive feedback to individuals using technology to pursue wellness goals. 
     The present disclosure contemplates that the entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transfer, storage, or other use of such personal information data will comply with well-established privacy policies and/or privacy practices. In particular, such entities should implement and consistently use privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining personal information data private and secure. Such policies should be easily accessible by users, and should be updated as the collection and/or use of data changes. Personal information from users should be collected for legitimate and reasonable uses of the entity and not shared or sold outside of those legitimate uses. Further, such collection/sharing should occur after receiving the informed consent of the users. Additionally, such entities should consider taking any needed steps for safeguarding and securing access to such personal information data and ensuring that others with access to the personal information data adhere to their privacy policies and procedures. Further, such entities can subject themselves to evaluation by third parties to certify their adherence to widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adapted for the particular types of personal information data being collected and/or accessed and adapted to applicable laws and standards, including jurisdiction-specific considerations. For instance, in the US, collection of or access to certain health data may be governed by federal and/or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); whereas health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Hence different privacy practices should be maintained for different personal data types in each country. 
     Despite the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates embodiments in which users selectively block the use of, or access to, personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates that hardware and/or software elements can be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, in the case of advertisement delivery services, the present technology can be configured to allow users to select to “opt in” or “opt out” of participation in the collection of personal information data during registration for services or anytime thereafter. In another example, users can select not to provide mood-associated data for targeted content delivery services. In yet another example, users can select to limit the length of time mood-associated data is maintained or entirely prohibit the development of a baseline mood profile. In addition to providing “opt in” and “opt out” options, the present disclosure contemplates providing notifications relating to the access or use of personal information. For instance, a user may be notified upon downloading an app that their personal information data will be accessed and then reminded again just before personal information data is accessed by the app. 
     Moreover, it is the intent of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and handled in a way to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Risk can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting data once it is no longer needed. In addition, and when applicable, including in certain health related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect a user&#39;s privacy. De-identification may be facilitated, when appropriate, by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of data stored (e.g., collecting location data a city level rather than at an address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users), and/or other methods. 
     Therefore, although the present disclosure broadly covers use of personal information data to implement one or more various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that the various embodiments can also be implemented without the need for accessing such personal information data. That is, the various embodiments of the present technology are not rendered inoperable due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, content can be selected and delivered to users by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or a bare minimum amount of personal information, such as the content being requested by the device associated with a user, other non-personal information available to the content delivery services, or publicly available information. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not target to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20220922
Publication Date: 20240521
Grant Date: 20240521
Priority Date: 20220922
Inventors: CHANG, YU-PO
WU, CHIA CHI
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/14", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/20", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2215/004", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/705", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/14", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/85", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2221/062", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2221/058", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2215/006", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2215/016", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2215/004", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/20", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 90359687