PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11961688-B2
Application Number: US-202217820382-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Keycap particle evacuation structure

Abstract:
A keycap includes a keycap body with a top surface and a top periphery region extending around the top surface. A recessed area extends across the top surface inward of the top periphery region, with the top periphery region being elevated relative to the recessed area. The keycap also includes a set of grooves extending from the recessed area and across at least a portion of the top periphery region.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A keycap comprising:
 a keycap body including:
 a top surface; 
 a top periphery region extending around the top surface; 
 a recessed area extending across the top surface inward of the top periphery region, the top periphery region being elevated relative to the recessed area; and 
 a set of grooves extending from the recessed area and across at least a portion of the top periphery region, each groove of the set of grooves having a groove width that provides an unperceivable tactile response to a fingertip of a user. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The keycap of  claim 1 , wherein the top periphery region comprises a plateau surface. 
     
     
       3. The keycap of  claim 2 , wherein:
 the plateau surface comprises a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge; and 
 the plateau surface is planar between the first edge and the second edge. 
 
     
     
       4. The keycap of  claim 2 , wherein the plateau surface comprises a polished surface devoid of pockets greater than 0.5 micron between adjacent grooves of the set of grooves. 
     
     
       5. The keycap of  claim 2 , wherein the set of grooves extends completely across the plateau surface. 
     
     
       6. The keycap of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the keycap body further comprises a side surface adjoined to the top periphery region at a keycap edge; and 
 at least one groove of the set of grooves is oriented perpendicular relative to the keycap edge. 
 
     
     
       7. The keycap of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the keycap body further comprises a central portion of the top surface positioned within the recessed area; and 
 at least one groove of the set of grooves is oriented radially relative to the central portion. 
 
     
     
       8. The keycap of  claim 1 , wherein the set of grooves includes a first groove with a first orientation and a second groove with a second orientation that differs from the first orientation. 
     
     
       9. A keyboard assembly, comprising:
 a keyboard housing; 
 a set of key mechanisms disposed within the keyboard housing, each key mechanism of the set of key mechanisms comprising:
 a keycap body including:
 a sidewall; 
 a plateau surface substantially perpendicular to the sidewall, the plateau surface having an inner edge and an outer edge; 
 a transition portion adjoining the sidewall and the outer edge; 
 a recessed area extending across a top surface of the keycap body inward of the inner edge of the plateau surface; and 
 a set of particle exit paths extending from the recessed area, across the inner edge and the outer edge below the plateau surface, and to the transition portion. 
 
 
 
     
     
       10. The keyboard assembly of  claim 9 , wherein the plateau surface comprises a polished and planar surface configured to contact a computing device display. 
     
     
       11. The keyboard assembly of  claim 9 , wherein the set of particle exit paths is interspaced along the plateau surface, the set of particle exit paths being spatially configured to receive particles from the plateau surface. 
     
     
       12. The keyboard assembly of  claim 11 , wherein:
 each particle exit path of the set of particle exit paths comprises an evacuation end positioned at the transition portion; and 
 a particle received by at least one particle exit path of the set of particle exit paths is configured to exit the evacuation end in response to movement of the keycap body. 
 
     
     
       13. The keyboard assembly of  claim 9 , wherein the set of particle exit paths is oriented radially relative to a central portion of the recessed area. 
     
     
       14. The keyboard assembly of  claim 9 , wherein:
 a first subset of the set of particle exit paths is oriented radially relative to a central portion of the recessed area; and 
 a second subset of the set of particle exit paths is oriented non-radially relative to the central portion of the recessed area. 
 
     
     
       15. The keyboard assembly of  claim 14 , wherein:
 the first subset of the set of particle exit paths is positioned at corner regions of the keycap body; and 
 the second subset of the set of particle exit paths is positioned between the corner regions of the keycap body. 
 
     
     
       16. A computing device, comprising:
 a display with a planar display surface; 
 a keyboard housing; 
 a set of key mechanisms disposed within the keyboard housing, the set of key mechanisms comprising:
 a keycap body including:
 a top surface having an inner edge, an outer edge, and a planar surface extending between the inner edge and the outer edge, the planar surface abutting the planar display surface when the display is positioned in a closed configuration over the keyboard housing; 
 a recessed area extending inward from the top surface; and 
 a set of channels extending from the recessed area and through at least a portion of the top surface. 
 
 
 
     
     
       17. The computing device of  claim 16 , wherein the set of channels is interspaced along a perimeter of the keycap body. 
     
     
       18. The computing device of  claim 16 , wherein the set of channels is accessible to dust particles positioned on the top surface. 
     
     
       19. The computing device of  claim 16 , wherein the set of channels comprises one or more evacuation ends positioned beyond the top surface. 
     
     
       20. The computing device of  claim 16 , wherein the set of channels comprises size dimensions in a range from about 3 micron to about 30 micron.

Description:
FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to keyboards and key mechanisms for electronic devices. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to keycap particle evacuation structures for use with keyboards and key mechanisms for electronic devices. 
     BACKGROUND 
     A keyboard allows users to provide user input to a computing device by depressing or touching one or more keys on the keyboard. As such, a keyboard is one of the most frequently touched parts of a computer. Over time, keyboards collect large amounts of oil, dirt, grime, and other contaminants, especially from a user&#39;s hands. 
     Recent advances in portable computing have also led to thinner, more compact devices (e.g., laptops and removable keyboards) that are often stored in travel luggage, briefcases, backpacks, duffle bags, or purses. The portability (and associated transportation/storage) of such devices increases the likelihood of contact between the keys of the keyboard and the display while the notebook computer is closed and the display screen is positioned adjacent to the top surfaces of the keycaps. When stowed in a backpack, for instance, portable computing devices are often compressed and jostled amongst other solid objects in the backpack or pressed tightly against the internal structure of the backpack. 
     With increased contact between displays and keyboards, contaminants and debris on the keycaps can cause damage to the display. For example, oil on the keycaps can transfer to the display when the display is closed over the keyboard—thereby leaving unsightly oil smudges at the points of contact with the display. Dust particles and dirt on the keycaps can scratch the face of an abutting display. These marks can permanently affect the appearance and usability of the device. Therefore, there is a constant need for improvements to the usability, manufacture, and effectiveness of keyboards that interface with (e.g., abut) a display when closed in a folded or clamshell configuration. 
     SUMMARY 
     An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a keycap. In some embodiments, the keycap can include a keycap body with a top surface and a top periphery region extending around the top surface. The keycap also includes a recessed area extending across the top surface inward of the top periphery region, with the top periphery region being elevated relative to the recessed area. The keycap also includes a set of grooves extending from the recessed area and across at least a portion of the top periphery region. 
     In some embodiments, the top periphery region comprises a plateau surface. The plateau surface can also be comprised of a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, with the plateau surface being planar between the first edge and the second edge. In some embodiments, the plateau surface can comprise a polished surface devoid of pockets greater than 0.5 micron in width or depth. The set of grooves can also extend across the entire plateau surface, and can be sized greater than a threshold percentile of dust particles. In some embodiments, the keycap body further comprises a side surface adjoined to the top periphery region at a keycap edge. In certain implementations, at least one groove of the set of grooves is oriented perpendicular relative to the keycap edge. In particular embodiments, the keycap body further comprises a central portion of the top surface positioned within the recessed area, and at least one groove of the set of grooves is oriented radially relative to the central portion. In some embodiments, the set of grooves includes a first groove with a first orientation and a second groove with a second orientation that differs from the first orientation. 
     Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a keyboard assembly. The keyboard assembly includes a keyboard housing with a set of key mechanisms disposed within the keyboard housing. Each key mechanism of the set of key mechanisms comprises a keycap body, including a sidewall, a plateau surface substantially perpendicular to the sidewall with an inner edge and an outer edge, a transition portion adjoining the sidewall and the outer edge, a recessed area extending across a top surface of the keycap body inward of the inner edge of the plateau surface, and a set of particle exit paths extending from the recessed area, across the inner edge and the outer edge below the plateau surface, and to the transition portion. 
     In certain implementations, the keyboard assembly includes a plateau surface comprised of a polished and planar surface configured to contact a computing device display. The set of particle exit paths can also be interspaced along the plateau surface, the set of particle exit paths being spatially configured to receive particles from the plateau surface. In some embodiments, each particle exit path of the set of particle exit paths comprises an evacuation end positioned at the transition portion, and a particle received by at least one particle exit path of the set of particle exit paths is configured to exit the evacuation end in response to movement of the keycap body. The set of particle exit paths of the keyboard assembly can be oriented radially away from a central portion of the recessed area. In some embodiments, a first subset of the set of particle exit paths is oriented radially relative to a central portion of the recessed area, and a second subset of the set of particle exit paths is oriented non-radially relative to the central portion of the recessed area. In certain implementations, the first subset of the set of particle exit paths is positioned at corner regions of the keycap body, and the second subset of the set of particle exit paths is positioned between the corner regions of the keycap body. 
     Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a computing device. The computing device is comprised of a display with a planar display surface, a keyboard housing, and a set of key mechanisms disposed within the keyboard housing. The set of key mechanisms comprising a keycap body. The keycap body including a planar top surface that abuts the planar display surface when the display is positioned in a closed configuration over the keyboard housing, a recessed area extending inward from the planar top surface, and a set of channels extending from the recessed area and through at least a portion of the planar top surface. 
     In one or more embodiments, the set of channels is interspaced along a perimeter of the keycap body. The set of channels can also be accessible to dust particles positioned on the planar top surface. In some embodiments, the set of channels comprises one or more evacuation ends positioned beyond the planar top surface. In particular embodiments, the set of channels comprises size dimensions in a range from about 3 micron to about 30 micron. 
    
    
     
       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    illustrates a perspective view of an example portable computing device. 
         FIG.  2    illustrates a top view of an example keyboard positioned in a top surface of a keyboard housing. 
         FIGS.  3 A- 3 C  respectively illustrate top views of an example keycap. 
         FIG.  4    illustrates a top view of portion of an example keycap with example grooves and an example plateau surface. 
         FIG.  5    illustrates a cross-section of an example keycap as taken through section lines  5 - 5  in  FIG.  4   . 
         FIG.  6    illustrate a cross-section of an example keycap as taken through section lines  6 - 6  in  FIG.  4   . 
         FIG.  7    illustrates a cross-section of an example keycap through an example groove and abutting display housing. 
     
    
    
     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 to keycap structures for evacuating dirt particles from keycaps on keyboards for electronic devices. Various keycaps of the present disclosure include a recessed area designed to interface with the user&#39;s finger in an ergonomic fashion. The recessed area does not contact the display portion of a computing device, therefore reducing degradation of the display from oil, dirt, and grime on the keycap. 
     Keycaps of the present disclosure can also include a polished, raised surface that minimizes the contact surface of the keycap with the display of a computing device. The polished surface is also resistant to oil and dirt buildup. 
     Keycaps of the present disclosure can also include grooves that extend from the outer edge of the keycap, through the raised smooth portion, and to the recessed portion. The grooves are designed to catch dust and dirt particles and then efficiently evacuate these particles away from the smooth raised portion configured to contact the display. These grooves allow oil and dirt to be swept from the contact and recessed areas of the keycap. In addition, the grooves can reduce the amount of oil and dirt on the surface of the keycap and therefore reduce the amount of oil and dirt that interfaces with the display, thereby minimizing force concentrations, smudges, or scratches on the display caused by contaminants on the keycaps. 
     In some embodiments, the grooves are placed perpendicular to each side of the keycap. In another embodiment, the grooves are placed perpendicular to the sides of the keycap and radially around the corners. In another embodiment, the grooves are placed radially around the entire perimeter of the keycap. For instance, the grooves can all have major horizontal axes/elongated dimension axes that intersect at a single point or axis on the keycap (e.g., the center point or vertical axis through the center point). In some cases, a first subset of the grooves can have axes intersecting at a single point or axis and a second subset of the grooves can have axes that are parallel or that intersect at a second, different point or axis. Myriad different groove configurations fall within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS.  1 - 5   . 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    illustrates an example embodiment of a computing device  100  having a display housing  102  attached to a keyboard housing  104 . The display housing  102  can include a display  106  that renders visualizations. The display  106  includes a planar surface (e.g., that can abut or be positioned proximate to) the keyboard housing  104  in a closed clamshell configuration. In various embodiments, the planar surface can be referred to as a cover glass, cover panel, display face, keyboard-facing surface, or keycap-contact surface of the display  106 . Additionally, the keyboard housing  104  can include a keyboard  110  and a trackpad  112  that are accessible through (or at) a top surface  114  of the keyboard housing  104 . The keyboard housing  104  can also include a key web  108  which defines a portion of the top surface  114  between and/or around individual keys (or key mechanisms) of the keyboard  110 . The key web  108  can also include openings through which keys of the keyboard  110  can extend to be accessible by a user. 
     The computing device  100  is shown in  FIG.  1    as being a laptop computer, but the computing device  100  can include a variety of different types of computing devices, such as notebook computers, desktop computers, tablet computers, smart phones, servers, similar devices, and combinations thereof. Furthermore, the keyboard housing  104  can be a peripheral input device that is connectable to a computing device (e.g., via a wired or wireless connection) such as a standalone keyboard, a number input pad (e.g., “tenkey” pad), a trackpad, mouse, or other pointer input device, a graphic pen tablet, similar devices, and combinations thereof. Thus, the computing device  100  is shown merely as an example device with which aspects of the present disclosure are illustrated for convenience in providing an explanation and should not be viewed as limiting to a laptop computer. For example, in a tablet computer embodiment, the computing device  100  can have a tablet computer with a display similar to display  106  that is covered by a peripheral keyboard device having keys similar to keyboard  110 . The peripheral keyboard device can be positioned on a removable cover or case for the tablet computer that can be arranged (e.g., folded into a closed configuration) with the keycaps facing the display of the tablet computer. 
     Generally, with a laptop computer-like computing device  100 , a processor, memory device, electronic storage device, portable power source or power source connector, circuit boards, keyboard and trackpad controllers, and other related electronic components can be stored in the keyboard housing  104  and/or the display housing  102 . Thus, the computing device  100  can include all electrical devices and components necessary for operation of a keyboard  110  including keyboard switches and displays connected to one or more of the keys of the keyboard  110 . 
     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   . 
       FIG.  2    illustrates a top view of the keyboard  110  discussed above. As shown, the keyboard  110  includes a set of key mechanisms with keycaps  200 . The keycaps  200  can comprise a variety of different materials. In some embodiments, the keycaps  200  include a plastic material. Additionally or alternatively, the keycaps  200  include a metal material. Additionally or alternatively, the keycaps  200  include a glass material. It will be appreciated that the keycaps  200  can, in certain implementations, include a combination of materials (e.g., two or more of the foregoing materials). Similarly, the keycaps  200  can include one or more surface coatings and/or finish applications (e.g., polishing). Additionally, keycaps  200  can include or can be covered by a piece of (e.g., a sheet of) flexible material. The flexible material can be applied to or overlaid on a rigid keycap or across multiple adjacent keycaps. In some embodiments, the flexible material can have embossed or raised portions that form keycap-like shapes overlaying the rigid keycaps and with gaps or cracks between the keycap-like shapes. 
     The keycaps  200  can further include a set of particle exit paths  202  positioned on the top surface of the keycaps  200  (e.g., along a top perimeter). The set of particle exit paths  202  can be positioned on each of the keycaps  200 . In other embodiments, the set of particle exit paths  202  is positioned only on a subset of the keycaps  200 . In embodiments with a cover layer of flexible material, the particle exit paths  202  can be defined on top surfaces of keycap-like shapes overlaying rigid keycap structures. Thus, properties and features of the particle exit paths  202  discussed in connection with rigid keycaps herein can be implemented around edges of portions of a cover layer of flexible material. 
     The set of particle exit paths  202  include grooves designed to carry oil, dirt, and dust away from particular portions of the keycaps  200 . For example, the set of particle exit paths  202  can catch and evacuate particles that move into them from a top surface of the keycaps  200 —especially a surface of the keycaps  200  that can engage (e.g., can abut or be positioned proximate to) a display surface. 
     The set of particle exit paths  202  can further include a size, spacing, and positional configuration that facilitates particle evacuation away from potentially display-contacting surfaces of the keycaps  200 . For instance, the set of particle exit paths  202  can include one or more dimensions (e.g., width and depth dimensions) that range between about 3 microns and about 30 microns. In some cases, this is sufficient to capture a majority of dust particles. Additionally, in  FIG.  2   , the set of particle exit paths  202  are visible for illustration purposes. However, it will be appreciated that the set of particle exit paths  202  can be made with size dimensions and/or keycap positioning that make them invisible to the unaided human eye. As used herein, an “unaided human eye” is a naked eye of an average human observer having regular vision and that is not augmented or supplemented by lenses, microscopes, cameras, or other scopes or equipment used to discern keycap structure beyond the natural human eye. In some embodiments, the unaided human eye is the naked eye of a human observer with normal vision at a predetermined distance, such as at a distance of at least 12 inches from the keycaps  200 , wherein the lines of the individual exit paths  202  are substantially indistinguishable from a smooth or non-lined texture on the keycaps  200 . 
     Additional detail regarding the set of particle exit paths  202  (also referred to as a set of grooves or channels) is provided elsewhere herein. 
     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   . 
       FIGS.  3 A- 3 C  illustrate top views of example keycaps  300   a - 300   c  in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in  FIGS.  3 A- 3 C , the keycaps  300   a - 300   c  can include a keycap body with a top surface  302  and a sidewall  304 . The keycaps  300   a - 300   c  can also include a top periphery region  306  extending around the top surface  302 . In addition, the keycaps  300   a - 300   c  include a recessed area  308  extending across the top surface  302  inward of the top periphery region  306 . That is, the top periphery region  306  is elevated relative to the recessed area  308 . See also  FIGS.  4 - 7   . 
     In particular implementations, the top periphery region  306  includes a plateau surface  307  (discussed in more detail below in relation to  FIGS.  4 - 7   ). The plateau surface  307  is a proud surface (relative to the recessed area  308 ). The plateau surface  307  can extend upward relative to the recessed area  308 , and can be elevated relative to the recessed area  308 . The keycap can have increased overall height/thickness at the plateau surface  307  as compared to the overall height/thickness at the recessed area  308 . In addition, the plateau surface  307  includes a polished, planar surface intended for contacting a display surface. From the plateau surface  307 , the recessed area  308  can slope downward towards the middle of the top surface  302 . The downslope curvature of the recessed area  308  then levels out at a central portion  309  of the recessed area  308 . Thus, the central portion  309  of the recessed area  308  can be flat and planar, and an outer portion of the recessed area  308  surrounding the central portion  309  can have an upward sloping curvature that transitions to the top periphery region  306 . See  FIG.  6   . 
     The concave nature of the recessed area  308  relative to the plateau surface  307  of the top periphery region  306  is configured in this manner such that the recessed area  308  does not come into contact with a display (e.g., the display  106  of  FIG.  1   ) when the display contacts the keycap. The recessed area  308  can therefore reduce the amount of load bearing area when the keycaps  300   a - 300   c  are pressed against the display. Additionally, by being spaced out of contact with the display, the recessed area  308  does not deposit oil, dirt, or dust thereon. Additionally, in certain implementations, the recessed area  308  can provide a tactile response and tactile ‘guiding function, wherein a user&#39;s fingers are comfortably and naturally positioned in the middle of the keycaps  300   a - 300   c  while typing. 
     The keycaps  300   a - 300   c  can also include a set of grooves  310 . The set of grooves  310  define one or more exit paths for trapped particles (e.g., dust, dirt, oil) on the top surface  302  to move away from the plateau surface and therefore out of potential contact with the display screen. The set of grooves  310  in particular can receive particles that are moved from the plateau surface  307  (e.g., via keycap movement, finger motion/brushing, etc.). In this manner, the set of grooves  310  can help reduce the amount of particles capable of interfacing with a display (i.e., by removing particles from the plateau surface  307 ). 
     To do so, the set of grooves  310  extend from the recessed area  308  and across at least a portion of the top periphery region  306 . In particular implementations, the set of grooves  310  extend from the recessed area  308 , across and below the plateau surface  307 , and outward toward the sidewall  304 . Thus, in some embodiments, the set of grooves  310  can evacuate particles outward from the center of the top surface  302  and over the keycap sidewall  304  or other outer perimeter edge. In certain implementations, intermittent or random motion of the keyboard or display, air venting across the top surface  302 , hand/finger swiping on the top surface  302 , vibrations from typing, electrostatic charge differential relative to the keycaps, similar physical mechanisms, and combinations thereof can aid particle evacuation via the set of grooves  310 . 
     The set of grooves  310  can include a variety of different dimensions. In some embodiments, each groove of the set of grooves  310  is sized greater than a threshold percentile of dust particles (e.g., greater than the 90th percentile of dust particles used under the standard of Arizona test dust or the National Institute of Standards and Technology for “Ultra Fine Test Dust”). The set of grooves  310  can also be configured such that each groove of the set of grooves  310  is sized to fit a minimum threshold number of dust particles or other miniscule debris arranged in a side-by-side configuration or a stacked configuration (e.g., 5 dust particles in either direction) to help avoid trapping particles inside the set of grooves  310  rather than evacuating the particles. For instance, the set of grooves  310  can include width and depth dimensions ranging between about 3 microns and about 90 microns. Additional sizing details of the set of grooves  310  is discussed more below in relation to subsequent figures. 
     The set of grooves  310  can be arranged extending across the top periphery region  306  in a variety of different ways. In particular,  FIG.  3 A  illustrates the keycap  300   a  with the set of grooves  310  extending across the top periphery region  306  and oriented perpendicular to the sidewall  304 . Additionally shown in  FIG.  3 A , the set of grooves  310  need not extend around an entire perimeter of the keycap  300   a . Indeed, in certain embodiments, the set of grooves  310  is not positioned along corners  312  of the top surface  302 . 
       FIG.  3 B  illustrates the keycap  300   b  with the set of grooves  310  configured to extend across the top periphery region  306  and oriented radially relative to the central portion  309  of the recessed area  308 . 
     It will be appreciated that the set of grooves  310  of the keycap  300   b  can be positioned in a variety of “radial” orientations. For example, the set of grooves  310  can be oriented radially relative to a single center point  311  or vertical axis (e.g., at a middle coordinate location of the keycap  300   b  where the axes of all of the grooves  310  converge) within the central portion  309 . As another example, the set of grooves  310  can be oriented radially relative to a horizontal axis (or multiple horizontal axes, such as horizontal axes  313   a ,  313   b ) positioned across the top surface  302 . To illustrate, the set of grooves  310  on each side of the horizontal axis  313   a  are parallel to each other, such as how the set of grooves  310  on the left side of the keycap  300   a  in  FIG.  3 A  are parallel to the corresponding grooves on the right side of the keycap  300   a . The horizontal axis  313   a  in that case extends from the top side of the keycap  300   a  in  FIG.  3 A  to the bottom side of the keycap  300   a  through the center point  311  of the recessed area  308 . Similarly, the set of grooves  310  shown at the top and bottom of keycap  300   a  extend away from axis  313   b  in  FIG.  3 A . 
     The set of grooves  310  can also include multiple different orientations. In accordance with one or more such examples,  FIG.  3 C  illustrates the keycap  300   c  with a first subset of the set of grooves  310  oriented perpendicular to the sidewall  304  and a second subset of the set of grooves  310  oriented radially relative to the central portion  309 . As shown, the first subset of the set of grooves  310  are positioned between the corners  312  of the keycap  300   c , and the second subset of the set of grooves  310  are positioned at the corners  312 . 
     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    illustrates a top view of a portion of a keycap  400 . The keycap  400  has features in common with the keycap  300   c  and which have common numeric indicators. As shown, the keycap  400  includes the top surface  302 , the sidewall  304 , the top periphery region  306 , the plateau surface  307 , the recessed area  308 , and the set of grooves  310  (as discussed above). The keycap  400  also shows additional aspects of a keycap according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. 
     Keycap  400  shows the plateau surface  307  including an inner edge  404  that borders the recessed area  308 . In addition, the plateau surface  307  includes an outer edge  406  that borders a transition portion  402 . The transition portion  402  can include a curved or rounded transition surface joining the sidewall  304  and the outer edge  406  of the plateau surface  307 . See  FIG.  5   . 
     In certain implementations, the plateau surface  307  includes a plateau surface width  408  defined by the distance between the inner edge  404  and the outer edge  406 . The plateau surface width  408  can be implemented having a variety of different width values. For example, the plateau surface width  408  can be dependent on the amount of load bearing surface area needed to achieve a predetermined force or pressure threshold relative to a planar display surface in contact with the plateau surface  307 . The predetermined force or pressure threshold can be a cumulative force/pressure profile across the entire plateau surface  307  of the keycap. Alternatively, the predetermined force or pressure threshold can be point- or region-specific (e.g., a portion of the plateau surface  307  between adjacent grooves of the set of grooves  310 ). 
     In some embodiments, the plateau surface width  408  can be dependent on the material of the plateau surface  307 . For instance, certain material(s) of the plateau surface  307  (with corresponding material properties, e.g., hardness levels, scratch resistance, elasticity, etc.) are capable of pressing a particle against a planar display surface with sufficient force or pressure to damage (e.g., scratch) the planar display surface. Therefore, the plateau surface width  408  can be sized to minimize or eliminate pressure applied by the plateau surface  307  in excess of a force or pressure threshold limit associated with expected force loads during use, storage, transportation (e.g., in a backpack), etc. 
     The number and width of the grooves  310  can directly reduce the surface area of the plateau surface  307 . Thus, the plateau surface width  408  can also be dependent on the number or density of the set of grooves  310  to likewise achieve a predetermined force or pressure threshold relative to a planar display surface in contact with the plateau surface  307 . Therefore, in some embodiments, the plateau surface width  408  can be wider to maintain a certain pressure profile along the plateau surface  307  (notwithstanding a greater density of the set of grooves  310 ). By contrast, the plateau surface width  408  can be narrower to maintain a certain pressure profile along the plateau surface  307  given a lower density of the set of grooves  310 . 
     In addition, the plateau surface  307  can be positioned in myriad different ways. In some embodiments, the plateau surface  307  is positioned at an offset distance  410  from the sidewall  304 . The offset distance  410  can be configured to center the plateau surface  307  relative to a groove length  416  (as also discussed below). Alternatively, the offset distance  410  can include a distance that positions the plateau surface  307  off-center of the groove length  416  (e.g., closer to or farther away from the sidewall  304  relative to a centerline going perpendicularly through the groove lengths). As shown, the offset distance  410  is constant in keycap  400 . However, in some embodiments, the offset distance  410  can be non-constant and can vary at different areas or edges of the keycap. For example, the offset distance  410  can vary around the top periphery region  306  such that the plateau surface  307  forms a wave-like pattern, a step pattern, a zig-zag pattern, etc. Further, it will be appreciated that the offset distance  410  can be tuned or optimized as may be desired (e.g., for optimal evacuation of particles off the plateau surface  307  and/or out of the set of grooves  310 ). 
     The plateau surface  307  can also include surface characteristics. For example, the plateau surface  307  can include a polished surface. The polished surface of the plateau surface  307  can have a threshold surface roughness or smoothness level. In particular embodiments, the surface roughness of the plateau surface  307  is sufficiently small such that the plateau surface  307  is devoid of pits, pockets, or other surface defects greater than a threshold size in width or depth (e.g., in various embodiments, the surface can be devoid of pockets having a threshold size (in width or depth) greater than about 0.5 micron, greater than about 1 micron, or greater than about 10 micron). In this manner, the polished finish of the plateau surface  307  can help reduce or prevent particles from being trapped on the plateau surface  307  in divots, pits, surface scratches, or other rough portions. In an example embodiment, the particles can be classified as “A1 Ultrafine” particles under ISO STANDARD 12103-1, such as a collection of particles sized between 1 micron to 20 micron. Thus, the polished surface can be sufficiently smooth and lacking pits or depressions capable of retaining “A1 Ultrafine” particles or other particles sized between 1 micron to 20 micron. The polished surface can be defined between two grooves, such as on the plateau surface  307  and having a length equal to groove spacing  412  or  414  shown in  FIG.  4    (i.e., a length between the edges of the grooves adjacent to the plateau surface). 
     Characteristics of the plateau surface  307  (and/or the set of grooves  310 ) can also advantageously provide or promote accessibility to the set of grooves  310 . As used herein, the terms “access,” “accessible,” or “accessibility” refer to the ability of a particle (e.g., a dust particle) being able to enter the set of grooves  310  from the plateau surface  307 . In particular, accessibility generally refer to a particle&#39;s freedom to move along the plateau surface  307  and fall into a groove of the set of grooves  310  without engaging an obstacle (e.g., a wall or ridge that slows or prevents its travel into the grooves  310 ). In some embodiments, accessibility of a particle into the set of grooves  310  from the plateau surface  307  includes a quantitative amount of force needed to overcome the static friction between the particle and the plateau surface  307 . Thus, a particle can be accessible to the set of grooves  310  if the amount of force to overcome the static friction between the particle and the plateau surface  307  is less than a threshold force amount (e.g., about 0.1 Dyne or 0.1 gram-force). As another example, accessibility of a particle can include a quantitative amount of work (i.e., force multiplied by particle displacement) for a particle to enter the set of grooves  310  from the plateau surface  307 . Thus, a particle can be accessible to the set of grooves  310  if the amount of work to for a particle to enter the set of grooves  310  is less than a threshold amount of work (e.g., about 0.1 Newton-meters). In yet another example, accessibility of a particle into the set of grooves  310  includes a quantitative measure of surface characteristics for the plateau surface  307 , such as flatness, surface roughness, etc. Thus, a particle can be accessible to the set of grooves  310  if the plateau surface  307  has a surface roughness that is less than a threshold amount of surface roughness (e.g., a surface grade of N6 or lower). It will be appreciated that various quantitative aspects of accessibility of a particle into the set of grooves  310  from the plateau surface  307  can lend to an overall (or combined) qualitative effect of observed accessibility. 
     Further shown in  FIG.  4   , the set of grooves  310  includes a variety of different characteristics and dimensions. In particular, the set of grooves  310  can include a groove spacing  412  between adjacent grooves. As similarly discussed above, the groove spacing  412  can be dependent on a predetermined force or pressure threshold between the plateau surface  307  and a planar display surface. In some embodiments, the groove spacing  412  can be the same between each groove for the set of grooves  310 . Alternatively, as shown in  FIG.  4   , the keycap  400  can include multiple groove spacings (i.e., groove spacing  412  and groove spacing  414 ) that differ from each other. For instance, the keycap  400  can include the groove spacing  412  between grooves for a first subset of the set of grooves  310  (e.g., between keycap corners), and the groove spacing  414  between grooves for a second subset of the set of grooves  310  (e.g., at keycap corners). In various embodiments, groove spacings can be defined between center points of the grooves, between innermost points of the grooves, or outermost points of the grooves. 
     The set of grooves  310  can also include other dimensions (and for myriad purposes). To illustrate, the set of grooves  310  can include a groove length  416  and a groove width  418 . The groove length  416  and the groove width  418  can be sized to receive particles. In some embodiments, the groove length  416  and the groove width  418  are sized to fit a threshold minimum number of dust particles arranged in a side-by-side configuration or a stacked configuration (e.g., 5 dust particles side-by-side across width  418 ) to help avoid trapping particles inside the set of grooves  310  rather than evacuating the particles. For instance, the groove length  416  can be between about 30 microns and about 10 millimeters. Additionally, the groove width  418  is between about 3 micron and about 90 microns. 
     Additionally or alternatively, however, at least one of the groove spacing  412 , the groove length  416 , or the groove width  418  can be sized based on a desired tactile characteristics of the keycap. For example, at least one of the groove spacing  412 , the groove length  416 , or the groove width  418  can be sufficiently small such that the set of grooves  310  provides an unperceivable tactile response (i.e., where an average human does not feel the set of grooves  310  with a fleshy pad portion of their fingertip or, in some cases, with an edge of their fingernail). As another example, at least one of the groove spacing  412 , the groove length  416 , or the groove width  418  can be sufficiently large such that the set of grooves  310  provides a perceivable tactile response. 
     Similarly, at least one of the groove spacing  412 , the groove length  416 , or the groove width  418  can be sized such that the set of grooves  310  provides an aesthetic element to the keycap  400 . Alternatively, at least one of the groove spacing  412 , the groove length  416 , or the groove width  418  can be sized such that the set of grooves  310  remain invisible to the unaided human eye. 
     Further, it will be appreciated that at least one of the groove spacing  412 , the groove length  416 , or the groove width  418  can be sized differently than presently illustrated in  FIG.  4   . For example, the set of grooves  310  are sized and positioned to completely pass through (i.e., subsurface or underneath) the plateau surface  307 . In alternative implementations, however, the set of grooves  310  only pass through a portion of the plateau surface  307  (e.g., underneath the outer edge  406  but not the inner edge  404 , or vice-versa). 
       FIG.  4    further illustrates the corresponding section cuts for the figure views depicted in  FIGS.  5 - 6   , which are discussed below. 
     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   . 
       FIG.  5    illustrates a section view through a groove of a keycap  500 . The keycap  500  can be the same as or similar to the keycap  400  discussed above in relation to  FIG.  4   . As shown in  FIG.  5   , the keycap  500  depicts many of the dimensions and characteristics of the plateau surface  307  and the set of grooves  310  previously discussed. Specifically,  FIG.  5    shows the keycap  500  including the transition portion  402 , the inner edge  404 , the outer edge  406 , the plateau surface width  408 , the offset distance  410 , and the groove length  416 —each discussed above in relation to  FIG.  4   .  FIG.  5    further depicts an example depth of the set of grooves  310  and various surface curvature of the keycap  500 . 
     In particular, each groove of the set of grooves  310  includes a groove bottom  504 . The groove bottom  504  includes a groove surface below the top surface  302 . In particular, the groove bottom  504  is positioned at a depth  506  measured between the top surface  302  and a keycap body  502 . In certain implementations, the depth  506  to the groove bottom  504  is greatest at or near where the set of grooves  310  crosses the plateau surface  307 . The depth  506  can then taper in both directions away from the plateau surface  307  (e.g., towards to the recessed area  308  and the transition portion  402 ). 
     As with other dimensions described above, the depth  506  can be sized to accommodate a threshold number of particles. To illustrate, the depth  506  can be sized to reduce or prevent multiple particles being lodged in the set of grooves  310 . Thus, the depth  506  can range between about 5 microns and about 90 microns. In at least some embodiments, the depth  506  is at least 11 microns. Additionally or alternatively, the depth  506  can be sized to promote (or in some cases, prevent) tactile or visual responses, as similarly described above. 
     It will also be appreciated that the depth  506  need not be the same for each of the set of grooves  310  (as shown in  FIG.  5   ). Some grooves can be deeper on certain sides of the top surface  302  of the keycap—where one or more sides are more (or less) likely to make contact with fingers (depending on the position of the keycap on a keyboard). As another example, the set of grooves  310  can include grooves with alternating depths (e.g., two deeper grooves, two shallower grooves, two deeper grooves, and so forth). Still, in other embodiments, each groove of the set of grooves  310  can have a single, equal depth  506 . 
     The set of grooves  310  is also sized and shaped to specifically promote evacuation of particles through an evacuation end  508  of the set of grooves  310  positioned on a radially outward end the plateau surface  307 . The evacuation end  508  includes a portion of a groove at which a particle can exit the recess of the groove and away from the center of the keycap. In particular, particles can be swept off the plateau surface  307 , advance through the set of grooves  310 , and out of the evacuation end  508  (as will be described more below in relation to  FIG.  7   ). 
     The set of grooves  310  can also be oriented in various ways depth-wise that promote evacuation of particles through the evacuation end  508 . Specifically, in  FIG.  5   , the groove bottom  504  is horizontal and parallel to the plateau surface  307 . In other embodiments, however, the groove bottom  504  is angled relative to the plateau surface  307 . For instance, the groove bottom  504  can be sloped towards the evacuation end  508  in a downward fashion so as to facilitate more efficient evacuation of particles through the evacuation end  508  (e.g., in response to vibration or gravity moving the particles along the groove bottom  504 ). 
     Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in  FIG.  5    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.  5   . 
       FIG.  6    illustrates a section view through the keycap  500  in between adjacent grooves. As shown, the plateau surface  307  includes a planar top surface in an elevated position between the transition portion  402  and the recessed area  308 . Further, the top surface  302  between adjacent grooves proceeds inward of the inner edge  404  in a downward sloped manner towards the central portion of the keycap  500 , thereby forming the recessed area  308 . In addition, the transition portion  402  adjoins the substantially perpendicular surfaces of the plateau surface  307  and the sidewall  304 . The keycap body  502  defines these and other features of the keycap  500 , including the surface contours and curvature shown in  FIG.  5   .  FIG.  6    also shows how the keycap, at the plateau surface  307 , has a greater thickness or height relative to a flat bottom surface of the keycap as compared to a central part of the keycap body  502 . The plateau surface  307  protrudes upward relative to the recessed, concave center portion and forms a planar uppermost surface of the keycap adjacent to a convex outer transition portion  402 . The plateau surface  307  can have sharp transitions at edges  404 ,  406  or, in some cases, the edges  404 ,  406  are smooth curves transitioning from the planar plateau surface  307  to their respective adjoining sides. The plateau surface  307  can be configured flat and planar so as to engage a flat and planar display screen surface with a predetermined amount of pressure and related contacting surface area, as opposed to creating force concentrations caused by the plateau surface  307  having a curved or pointed top ridge that could, even in the absence of contaminants, cause scratches or blemishes on a contacting display screen. 
     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   . 
       FIG.  7    illustrates the same section view in  FIG.  5   , but with the addition of the display housing  102 . As shown in  FIG.  7   , the display  106  of the display housing  102  is a planar surface that can abut (or be positioned proximate to) the plateau surface  307 . When the display  106  abuts the plateau surface  307 , the display housing  102  is positioned in a closed configuration (i.e., where the display housing  102  is closed shut against the keyboard  110 ). 
     As opposed to being lodged between the plateau surface  307  and the display  106 , a particle  700  can be swept off the plateau surface  307  and advance to the evacuation end  508  through a particular groove of the set of grooves  310  without being clamped or pinched between the display screen  106  and the plateau surface  307 . In certain implementations, random motion, air venting, hand/finger swiping, vibrations from typing, electrostatic charges, similar phenomena, and combinations thereof can aid in moving particles to (and through) the set of grooves  310  and then evacuating particles out of the evacuation end  508 . By removing the particle  700  from the plateau surface  307 , the particle  700  does not contact the display  106 . In this manner, soiling or damaging the display  106  can be avoided or reduced. 
     Any of the features, components, and/or parts, including the arrangements and configurations thereof shown in  FIG.  7    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.  7   . 
     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: 20220817
Publication Date: 20240416
Grant Date: 20240416
Priority Date: 20220817
Inventors: SCHNEIDER, SAMUEL O.
NEKIMKEN, KYLE J.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H01H13/70", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/14", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/20", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/705", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/70", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2239/034", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0202", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/20", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/14", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 89907115