PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9704665-B2
Application Number: US-201414281136-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Backlit keyboard including reflective component

Abstract:
A backlit keyboard including a reflective component. The backlit keyboard may include a top case forming a top portion of an exterior surface of the keyboard. The backlit keyboard may further include a set of keys positioned within the top case and a membrane positioned below the set of keys. The backlit keyboard may further include a light guide positioned below the membrane and a light source positioned on a portion of the light guide. The light source may be configured to emit light coupled into the light guide and emit stray light not coupled into the light guide. The backlit keyboard may further include a bottom case attached to the top case and forming a bottom portion of the exterior surface of the keyboard. Additionally, the backlit keyboard may include a reflector positioned on an interior surface of the bottom case below the light guide and separated from the light guide by a gap. In some embodiments, the reflector may be configured to redirect the stray light towards the set of keys and provide structural support for the light guide.

Claims:
We claim: 
     
       1. A backlit keyboard comprising:
 a top case forming a top portion of an exterior surface of the keyboard; 
 a set of keys positioned within the top case; 
 a membrane positioned below the set of keys; 
 a light guide positioned below the membrane; 
 a light source positioned on a portion of the light guide and configured to emit light coupled into the light guide and emit stray light into the offset not coupled into the light guide; 
 a bottom case attached to the top case and forming a bottom portion of the exterior surface of the keyboard; and 
 a reflector positioned on an interior surface of the bottom case below the light guide; and 
 a spacer positioned between the light guide and the reflector, the spacer defining a gap between the light guide and the reflector, wherein:
 the reflector is configured to redirect the stray light towards the set of keys; 
 the reflector includes a plurality of reflector openings configured to receive a coupling component; 
 the reflector is coupled to the top case via the coupling component; and 
 the reflector provides structural support for the light guide. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The backlit keyboard of  claim 1 , wherein the reflector is releasably coupled to the top case. 
     
     
       3. The backlit keyboard of  claim 2 , further comprising a plurality of apertures formed partially through the top case, adjacent the membrane,
 wherein the plurality of apertures are configured to receive the coupling component for releasably coupling the reflector to the top case. 
 
     
     
       4. The backlit keyboard of  claim 3 , further comprising:
 a plurality of membrane openings formed through the membrane, 
 wherein the plurality of membrane openings are substantially aligned with the plurality of apertures formed partially through the top case. 
 
     
     
       5. The backlit keyboard of  claim 3 , wherein:
 a plurality of reflector openings are in substantial alignment with the plurality of apertures formed partially through the top case; 
 the plurality of reflector openings are configured to receive the coupling component for releasably coupling the reflector to the top case; and 
 the reflector further includes an engagement component positioned within each of the plurality of reflector openings, the plurality of engagement components configured to engage the coupling component. 
 
     
     
       6. The backlit keyboard of  claim 3 , wherein the light guide includes a plurality of light guide openings in substantial alignment with the plurality of apertures formed partially though the top case,
 wherein the plurality of light guide openings are configured to receive the coupling component for releasably coupling the reflector to the top case. 
 
     
     
       7. A computing device comprising:
 a top case forming a top portion of an exterior surface of the device; and 
 a keyboard assembly positioned within the top case, the keyboard assembly comprising:
 a set of keys; 
 a light guide configured to direct light toward the plurality of keys; and 
 a light source configured to emit light coupled into the light guide and emit stray light that is not coupled into the light guide; and 
 
 a bottom case attached to the top case and forming a bottom portion of the exterior surface of the device, the bottom case comprising:
 a reflector positioned on an interior surface of the bottom case below the light guide and separated from the light guide by a spacer, wherein: 
 the spacer is configured to maintain a gap between the light guide and the reflector; 
 the reflector is configured to redirect the stray light toward the set of keys; and 
 the reflector provides structural support for the light guide via a coupling component that secures the reflector to the top case. 
 
 
     
     
       8. The computing device of  claim 7 , wherein the light source is positioned on at least a portion of a perimeter of the light guide. 
     
     
       9. The computing device of  claim 7 , wherein the keyboard assembly further comprises a mask positioned adjacent to the light guide. 
     
     
       10. The computing device of  claim 9 , wherein the keyboard assembly further comprises:
 a plurality of mask openings formed through the mask; 
 a plurality of light guide openings formed through the light guide, the plurality of light guide openings substantially aligned with the plurality of mask openings; and 
 wherein a plurality of reflector openings are substantially aligned with the plurality of light guide openings. 
 
     
     
       11. A method for assembling a keyboard, the method comprising:
 positioning a keyboard assembly within a top case, the top case forming a top portion of an exterior surface of the keyboard, wherein the keyboard assembly comprises:
 a light guide configured to direct light from a light source toward a set of keys; and 
 a light source configured to emit light coupled into the light guide and emit stray light not coupled into the light guide; 
 
 attaching a bottom case to the top case, the bottom case forming a bottom portion of the exterior surface of the keyboard, the bottom case comprising:
 a reflector on an interior surface of the bottom case that is offset from the light guide by a spacer, wherein the reflector is configured to redirect stray light toward the set of keys; and 
 
 coupling the reflector to the top case via a coupling component such that the reflector provides structural support to the light guide, wherein the reflector is configured to redirect the stray light toward the set of keys. 
 
     
     
       12. The method of  claim 11 , wherein the attaching the bottom case to the top case further comprises providing the spacer component between the reflector and the light guide, wherein the spacer component contacts the reflector and the light guide. 
     
     
       13. The method of  claim 11 , wherein the attaching the bottom case to the top case releasably couples the reflector to the top case.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The disclosure relates generally to electronic devices, and more particularly to input devices for electronic devices. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Conventional electronic devices typically include one or more input devices such as keyboards, buttons, touchpads or touchscreens. These input devices allow a user to interact with the electronic device. For example, a keyboard of an electronic device may allow a user to perform data entry processes on the electronic device. The input devices typically used with conventional electronic devices may be stand alone, or may be integral with the electronic device. The input devices for conventional electronic devices may also include a variety of features for ease of use by a user. For example, a keyboard for a conventional electronic device may include a backlighting feature. The backlighting feature may illuminate at least a portion of the keyboard, including the key glyphs and/or the boarders of each individual key. By illuminating at least a portion of the keyboard, visibility and/or usability of the keyboard may increase in low light usage of the electronic device. 
     Conventional backlit keyboards include a plurality of internal layers, often referred to as “stack ups,” which may create the backlit feature. To couple the various layers forming the stack up of the conventional backlit keyboard, an adhesive is typically used. However, the use of an adhesive to couple the layers may decrease the efficiency in transmitting light within the keyboard assembly as a layer of the assembly&#39;s (e.g., light guide) ability to channel or redirect light toward a key of the keyboard assembly may be substantially diminished. As such, conventional keyboards typically include a minimal amount of adhesive to couple the various layers of the stack up. However, with a decrease in the amount of adhesive applied, the stack up is less likely to remain structurally intact. That is, due to the minimal amount of adhesive used on the backlit keyboard assembly, the various layers of the backlit keyboard may be inadequately coupled and/or may not include a desired structural support. As a result of the inadequate coupling and/or inadequate structural support, the stack up for the backlit keyboard may become disconnected overtime and may result in improper function of the backlit keyboard for the electronic device. 
     SUMMARY 
     Generally, embodiments discussed herein are related to a backlit keyboard, an electronic device including a backlit keyboard assembly, and a method for assembling a backlit keyboard. The backlit keyboard may include a metal reflective component or reflective layer positioned adjacent to a light guide layer including a light source. The metal reflective component may include reflective properties and may provide a substantially rigid end structure for the various internal layers forming the keyboard. That is, the metal reflective component may reflect stray light back toward the light guide of the keyboard assembly, and may act as a substantially rigid internal end layer of the various layers forming the keyboard. In reflecting stray light back toward the light guide, the metal reflective component may increase the amount of light that may be provided to the keys of the backlit keyboard. Additionally, by including rigid structural properties, the metal reflective component may be coupled to distinct portions of the key board, and may provide additional support/coupling for the various internal layers forming the keyboard assembly. More specifically, the metal reflective component may provide support for the various internal layers of the keyboard assembly and may provide a compression fit to hold the layers together within the keyboard. The metal reflective component may provide the added support to the various internal layers by being coupled, permanently or temporarily, to the top case and/or a metal feature plate included within the keyboard assembly. As a result, the various internal layers forming the keyboard assembly that may be positioned adjacent the metal reflective component may rely solely on the metal reflective component for holding them in place, and may not require additional coupling components or techniques, which may require additional space and/or additional components within the keyboard assembly. 
     One embodiment may include a backlit keyboard. The backlit keyboard may include a top case, and a plurality of keys positioned adjacent a membrane. The plurality of keys may also be positioned within the top case. The keyboard may also include a metal feature plate positioned adjacent the membrane, and a light guide positioned adjacent the metal feature plate. The backlit keyboard may also include a light source positioned on a portion of the light guide. Additionally, the keyboard may include a metal reflective component positioned adjacent the light guide. The metal reflective component may be coupled to one of: the top case, or the metal feature plate. Additionally, the metal reflective component may provide structural support to at least one of the membrane, the metal feature plate and the light guide. 
     Another embodiment may include an electronic device. The electronic device may include a top case and a keyboard assembly. The keyboard assembly of the electronic device may include a top case, and a keyboard assembly positioned within the top case. The keyboard assembly may include a plurality of keys positioned adjacent a first side of a membrane, a metal feature plate positioned adjacent a second side of the membrane, and a metal reflective component positioned adjacent a light guide positioned between the metal feature plate and the metal reflective component. The metal reflective component may be coupled to one of: the top case, or the metal feature plate of the keyboard assembly. 
     A further embodiment may include a method of assembling a keyboard. The method may include positioning a light guide adjacent to a metal feature plate positioned adjacent to a membrane. The membrane may be positioned between the metal feature plate and a top case surrounding a plurality of keys. The method may also include positioning a metal reflective component adjacent the light guide, and coupling the metal reflective component to at least one of: the top case, or the metal feature plate. 
    
    
     
       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 an illustrative perspective view of an electronic device including a backlit keyboard assembly, according to embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  shows an illustrative exploded-perspective view of a backlit keyboard assembly including a metal reflective component and a top case of an electronic device, according to embodiments. 
         FIGS. 3-5  show illustrative cross-sectional front views of a portion of a backlit keyboard including a metal reflective component, according to various embodiments. 
         FIGS. 6 and 7  show illustrative cross-sectional front views of a portion of a backlit keyboard including a reflective metal inner surface of a bottom case, according to various embodiments. 
         FIG. 8  shows a flow chart illustrating a method for assembling a backlit keyboard including a metal reflective component. This method may be performed on the backlit keyboard assembly as shown in  FIGS. 2-7 . 
     
    
    
     It is noted that the drawings of the invention are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the invention, and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention. In the drawings, like numbering represents like elements between the drawings. 
     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 electronic devices, and more particularly, to input devices for electronic devices. 
     The backlit keyboard may include a metal reflective component or reflective layer positioned adjacent to a light guide layer and a light source positioned on the light guide layer. The metal reflective component may have reflective properties and, in some embodiments, may provide a substantially rigid end structure for the various internal layers forming the keyboard. That is, the metal reflective component may reflect stray light back toward the light guide of the keyboard assembly, and optionally may act as a substantially rigid internal end layer of the various layers forming the keyboard. In reflecting stray light back toward the light guide, the metal reflective component may increase the amount of light that may be provided to the keys of the backlit keyboard. 
     Additionally, by including rigid structural properties, the metal reflective component may be coupled to distinct portions of the keyboard, and may provide additional support/coupling for the various internal layers forming the keyboard assembly. More specifically, the metal reflective component may provide support for the various internal layers of the keyboard assembly and may provide a compression fit to hold the layers together within the keyboard. The metal reflective component may provide added support to the various internal layers by being coupled, permanently or temporarily, to the top case and/or a metal feature plate included within the keyboard assembly. As a result, in some embodiments the various internal layers forming the keyboard assembly that may be positioned adjacent the metal reflective component may rely solely on the metal reflective component for holding them in place, and may not require additional coupling components or techniques, which may require additional space and/or additional components within the keyboard assembly. 
     These 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. 
       FIG. 1  shows an illustrative perspective view of an electronic device  100  including a backlit keyboard assembly  102 , according to embodiments. In a non-limiting example, as shown in  FIG. 1 , electronic device  100  may be a laptop computer. However, it is understood that electronic device  100  may be configured as any suitable electronic device that may utilize backlit keyboard assembly  102 . More specifically, other embodiments can implement electronic device  100  differently, such as, for example, a desktop computer, a tablet computing device, a smartphone, a gaming device, a display, a digital music player, a wearable computing device or display, a health monitoring device, and so on. 
     Although discussed herein as a keyboard assembly, it is understood that the disclosed embodiments may be used in a variety of input devices used in various electronic devices. That is, backlit keyboard assembly  102 , and the components of the assembly discussed herein, may be utilized or implemented in a variety of input devices for an electronic device including, but not limited to: buttons, switches, toggles, wheels, and touch screens. 
     Electronic device  100  may include a top case  104 . Top case  104  may take the form of an exterior, protective casing or shell for electronic device  100  and the various internal components (for example, back lit keyboard assembly  102 ) of electronic device  100 . Top case  104  may be formed as a single, integral component, or may have a plurality of distinct components that may be configured to be coupled to one another, as discussed herein. Additionally, top case  104  may be formed from any suitable material that provides a protective casing or shell for electronic device  100  and the various components included in electronic device  100 . In non-limiting examples, top case  104  may be made from metal, a ceramic, a rigid plastic or another polymer, a fiber-matrix composite, and so on. 
     Backlit keyboard assembly  102  may be included within electronic device  100 . More specifically, as shown in  FIG. 1 , backlit keyboard assembly  102  may include a plurality of keys  106  positioned within top case  104  of electronic device  100 . The plurality of keys  106  may partially protrude from top case  104 , and each may be substantially surrounded by top case  104 . That is, the plurality of keys  106  of backlit keyboard assembly  102  may extend beyond a surface of top case  104 , and may be divided or separated by a portion of top case  104 . In the non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 1 , where electronic device  100  is a laptop computer, backlit keyboard assembly  102  may be positioned within and/or may be received by electronic device  100 . In an additional embodiment, backlit keyboard assembly  102  may be a distinct, standalone component, and may be in electronic communication (for example, wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.) with electronic device  100 . Backlit keyboard assembly  102  may be configured to allow a user to interact with electronic device  100 . 
       FIG. 2  shows an illustrative exploded perspective view of backlit keyboard assembly  102  and top case  104  of electronic device  100  of  FIG. 1 , according to an embodiment. It is understood that similarly named components or similarly numbered components may function in a substantially similar fashion, may include similar materials and/or may include similar interactions with other components. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , top case  104  of electronic device  100  (see,  FIG. 1 ) may include a plurality of keyholes  108  formed therethrough. As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , and discussed herein, the plurality of keys  106  of backlit keyboard assembly  102  may be positioned within and may partially extend above keyholes  108  of top case  104 . As a result of keyholes  108  being formed therein, top case  104  may also include skeletal ribs  110  configured to be positioned between the plurality of keys  106 . That is, and as discussed herein, skeletal ribs  110  of top case  104  may substantially surround and/or may be positioned within the space between the plurality of keys  106  of backlit keyboard assembly  102 . 
     Backlit keyboard assembly  102  may be shown as a “stack up,” or a group of components positioned in layers to form backlit keyboard assembly  102 . As discussed herein, the plurality of components positioned in layers may be positioned adjacent to and/or coupled to one another, and may be sandwiched between top case  104  and a bottom case (see,  FIG. 3 ) of electronic device  100 . 
     The stack up forming backlit keyboard assembly  102  may include a membrane  112 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , each of the keys  106  may be positioned adjacent membrane  112 . More specifically, each of the keys  106  may be positioned directly above and may be configured to interact with a first side  114  of membrane  112  during actuation. As discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 3 , each of the keys  106  may be coupled to a contact component (e.g., dome switch) that may be positioned between keys  106  and membrane  112 . When key  106  is actuated, the contact component (see,  FIG. 3 ) positioned between key  106  and membrane  112  may be depressed to contact an electrical trace (not shown) positioned on or adjacent to membrane  112 . The electrical trace provides a key-specific electrical signal (e.g., input) to electronic device  100  when key  106  is actuated and the contact component contacts the electrical case. 
     In a non-limiting example, membrane  112  may be a sensing membrane that includes at least one trace or sensor (not shown) positioned directly on a side (e.g., first side  114 ) of membrane  112 . In an additional non-limiting example, the traces or sensors (not shown) may be positioned on a component (e.g., metal feature plate) of keyboard assembly  102  adjacent to membrane  112 . In the additional non-limiting example where the traces or sensors (not shown) may be positioned on a component adjacent to membrane  112 , membrane  112  may allow the contact component (see,  FIG. 3 ) positioned between the key  106  and membrane  112  to contact the trace or sensor. As discussed herein, traces or sensors positioned on, or adjacent to, membrane  112  may be configured to detect or determine when key  106  of backlit keyboard assembly  102  is actuated by a user, and subsequently provide an electrical signal (e.g., input) to electronic device. In a non-limiting example, membrane  112  may be formed from a substantially flexible, conductive material including, but not limited to an indium tin oxide (ITO) layer. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , membrane  112  may include a plurality of membrane openings  116  formed through membrane  112 . As discussed herein, the plurality of membrane openings  116  may be positioned in substantial alignment with a plurality of distinct openings formed in the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 . Additionally, and as discussed herein, the plurality of membrane openings  116  may be optional, and may formed within membrane  112  dependent on, at least in part, the configuration of the distinct layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 , and the technique used to contact and/or couple the layers. Membrane openings  116  may be formed through membrane  112  to receive a coupling component to couple a bottom case (see,  FIGS. 3-5 ) to top case  104 . That is, a portion of membrane openings  116 , and the distinct openings and/or apertures formed through the layers of the stack up as discussed herein, may be configured to receive a screw, snap-fit component, or other suitable coupling components positioned on or through a bottom case. The coupling component may be coupled to top case  104 , to couple of fix a bottom case to the top case  104  to form an enclosure for backlit keyboard assembly  102 . Additionally, and as discussed herein, the openings and/or apertures formed through the layers of the stack up, including the membrane openings  116 , may be formed to aid in coupling the various layers forming keyboard assembly  102  to each other. 
     Backlit keyboard assembly  102  may also include a metal feature plate  118 . Metal feature plate  118  may be coupled to membrane  112 . More specifically, a first side  120  of metal feature plate  118  may be coupled to a second side  122  of membrane  112 , opposite the plurality of keys  106  positioned on or above first side  114  of membrane  112 . Metal feature plate  118  may be operably connected to the plurality of keys  106  of backlit keyboard assembly  102  via membrane  112  and, in some embodiments, may include a plurality of electrical traces or sensors (not shown), as discussed herein. When positioned on the metal feature plate  118 , the electrical traces or sensors may conduct electrical signals formed on the plate, and ultimately to associated circuitry of electronic device  100 , when key  106  is actuated during use of electronic device  100 . The electrical signals conducted by the traces or sensors of the metal feature plate  118  may be provided to electronic device  100  and the internal components (for example, processor) of electronic device  100 , indicating that a distinct key of the plurality of keys  102  of backlit keyboard assembly  102  may be actuated. Metal feature plate  118  may be formed from any suitable, electrically conductive sheet metal material including, but not limited to: aluminum, brass, and iron. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , metal feature plate  118  may include a plurality of metal feature plate openings  124  (hereafter, “plate openings  124 ”) formed through metal feature plate  118 . Plate openings  124  may be in substantial alignment with the plurality of membrane openings  116  formed in membrane  112 , and a plurality of distinct openings formed in the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 , as discussed herein. Similar to the membrane openings  116 , and as discussed herein, the plurality of plate openings  124  may be optional, and may formed within metal feature plate  118  dependent on, at least in part, the configuration of the distinct layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 , and the technique used to contact and/or couple the layers. As briefly discussed above with respect to membrane openings  116  formed through membrane  112 , and as discussed in detail below plate openings  124  may be formed through metal feature plate  118  to receive a coupling component to couple a bottom case (see,  FIGS. 3-5 ) to top case  104 , and/or to aid in coupling the various layers forming keyboard assembly  102  to each other. 
     Backlit keyboard assembly  102  may also include a mask  126  contacting and/or coupled to metal feature plate  118 . More specifically, a first side  128  of mask  126  may contact and/or may be coupled to a second side  130  of metal feature plate  118 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , mask  126  may include a plurality of light holes  132  formed through mask  126 . Each of the plurality of light holes  132  of mask  126  may be in partial alignment with a respective keyhole  108  formed in top case  104  and key  106 . That is, each of the plurality of light holes  132  of mask  126  may be in alignment with a corresponding keyhole  108  of top case  104  and key  106 , respectively. As shown in  FIG. 2 , each light hole  132  may be smaller than the corresponding keyhole  108  and/or key  106 . However, it is understood that each light hole  132  may be larger than or equal to the size of the corresponding keyhole  108  formed in top case  104 . Additionally, in other embodiments, mask  126  may include a single light hole  132  substantially the size of the plurality of keys  106  of the backlit keyboard assembly  102 , or mask  126  may be completed omitted from the backlit keyboard assembly  102 . Each of the plurality of light holes  132  of mask  126  may aid in concentrating or focusing the light from backlit keyboard assembly  102  on the corresponding key  106  positioned within the corresponding keyhole  108  of top case  104 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , mask  126  may include a plurality of mask openings  134  formed through mask  126 . Mask openings  134  may be in substantial alignment with the plurality of openings (for example, membrane openings  116 , plate openings  124 ) formed in the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 , as discussed herein. Dissimilar to the membrane openings  116  and plate openings  124 , and as discussed herein, the plurality of mask openings  134  may be formed within mask  126  independent of the other features of backlit keyboard assembly  102 . That is, and as discussed herein, at least a portion of metal feature plate  118  may be exposed or uncovered by mask  126  via the plurality of mask openings  134 , independent of, at least in part, the configuration of the distinct layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 , and the technique used to contact and/or couple the layers. As discussed herein, mask openings  134  may be formed through mask  126  to receive a coupling component to couple a bottom case (see,  FIGS. 3-5 ) to top case  104 , and/or to aid in coupling the various layers forming keyboard assembly  102  to each other. 
     Backlit keyboard assembly  102  may include a light guide  136  positioned adjacent metal feature plate  118 . More specifically, a first side  138  of light guide  136  may be coupled to and/or may contact a second side  140  of mask  126 , to position light guide  136  adjacent metal feature plate  118  of backlit keyboard assembly  102 . Light guide  136  may aid in providing light to the plurality of keys  106  of backlit keyboard assembly  102 . More specifically, light guide  136  may be a structure that may span the entire dimension of the plurality of keys  106  of backlit keyboard assembly  102 , and may aid in providing light to the plurality of keys  106  and/or the top case  104  during operation of backlit keyboard assembly  102 . In an non-limiting example, light guide  136  may include a polycarbonate layer. 
     Although shown as two distinct layers in  FIG. 2 , it is understood that mask  126  may be formed on top of or as a part of light guide  136  of backlit keyboard assembly  102 . That is, the pattern of light holes  132  formed within mask  126  may be implemented directly on light guide  136 , such that first side  138  of light guide  136  includes the pattern of light holes  132 . Where light guide  136  and mask  126  are formed as a single layer, the pattern of light holes  132  may be formed on first side  138  of light guide  136  by any suitable technique, for example, painting the pattern of light holes  132  on first side  138 . 
     A light source  142  may be positioned on a portion of light guide  136  or positioned adjacent thereto. More specifically, light source  142  may be positioned on at least a portion of a perimeter  144  of first side  138  of light guide  136 . In a non-limiting example, as shown in  FIG. 2 , light source  142  may be positioned on two of the four sides of perimeter  144  of light guide  136 . As a result of positioning light source  142  on first side  138  of light guide  136 , light source  142  may also be positioned adjacent metal feature plate  118 . In a non-limiting example, light source  142  may include an LED flex. However, it is understood that light source  142  positioned on light guide  136  may include any suitable light component configured to provide light to backlit keyboard assembly  102 . In another non-limiting example, light source  142  may include a group of light components (e.g., LED) positioned on or adjacent to light guide  136 , where the group of light components include individual light components or a portion of the group of light components that correspond to a single key  106  of backlit keyboard assembly  102 . Additionally, light source  142  may include features formed thereon to alter and/or enhance light source&#39;s  142  ability to provide light within backlit keyboard assembly  102 . In a non-limiting example, light source  142  may also include a diffuser, which may spread the light emitted by light source  142  throughout the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , light guide  136  may include a plurality of light guide openings  146  formed through light guide  136 . Light guide openings  146  may be in substantial alignment with the plurality of openings (for example, membrane openings  116 , plate openings  124 , mask openings  134 ) formed in the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 , as discussed herein. Similar to the mask openings  134 , and dissimilar to the membrane openings  116 /plate openings  124 , the plurality of light guide openings  146  may be formed within light guide  136  independent of the other features of backlit keyboard assembly  102 . That is, and as discussed herein, at least a portion of metal feature plate  118  may be exposed or uncovered by mask  126  via the plurality of mask openings  134  and light guide  136  via light guide openings  146 , independent of, at least in part, the configuration of the distinct layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 , and the technique used to contact and/or couple the layers. 
     Backlit keyboard assembly  102  may further include a metal reflector  152  positioned adjacent light guide  136 . More specifically, a first side  154  of metal reflector  152  may be positioned adjacent to a second side  156  of light guide  136 . Unlike various other components positioned in layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 , metal reflector  152  and light guide  136  may not be in contact with one another. That is, and as discussed herein, a space (see,  FIGS. 3-5 ) may exist between and/or may separate first side  154  of metal reflector  152  and second side  156  of light guide  136 . 
     Metal reflector  152  may have light-reflective properties and may be configured to reflect stray light from light source  142  back to light guide  136 , and ultimately to the plurality of keys  106  and/or keyholes  108  of top case  104 . More specifically, some light generated by light source  142  may not be directed toward the plurality of keys  106  and/or top case  104 , but rather may stray below second side  156  of light guide  136 , and may be emitted between light guide  136  and metal reflector  152 . As a result of the light-reflective properties of metal reflector  152 , the stray light emitted between light guide  136  and metal reflector  152  may be reflected to first side  138  and may be subsequently directed toward the plurality of keys  106  and/or keyholes  108  of top case  104  by light guide  136 . In non-limiting examples, metal reflector  152  may include a stainless steel plate, an aluminum plate or other metal plates including substantially reflective properties. Additionally, and as discussed herein, metal reflector  152  may be formed from a substantially rigid material, and may form a substantially rigid end layer within backlit keyboard assembly  102  to provide a compression fit and/or structural support to at least a portion of the respective layers within keyboard assembly  102 . 
     Although discussed herein as being formed from a metal material it is understood that reflector  152  may also be formed from a non-metal, substantially rigid materials including substantially reflective properties. That is, in other non-limiting examples, reflector  152  may be formed from a material having substantially reflective properties including plastic, ceramic, fiber-in-matrix material (e.g., carbon-fiber reinforced plastic) or other compounds. Additionally, although reflector  152  is discussed herein as a plate, reflector  152  may include a layer having portions or sections of material including substantially reflective properties. That is, in a non-limiting example, reflector  152  may include a layer of substantially rigid material including portions of reflective material that may be positioned within the rigid material in predetermined positions to aid in the reflection of light within the keyboard assembly  102 , as discussed herein. The use of the non-metal material or distinct materials within reflector  152  may also aid in the coupling of reflector  152  within keyboard assembly  102 , as discussed herein. 
     Metal reflector  152  may include a plurality of metal reflector openings  158  formed through metal reflector  152 . Metal reflector openings  158  may be in substantial alignment with the plurality of openings (for example, mask openings  134 , light guide openings  146 ) formed in the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 , as discussed herein. As similarly discussed above with respect to light guide openings  146 , the plurality of metal reflector openings  158  may be formed within metal reflector  152  independent of the other features of backlit keyboard assembly  102 . That is, and as discussed herein, at least a portion of metal feature plate  118  may be exposed or uncovered by mask  126 , light guide  136 , and metal reflector  152  via the plurality of metal reflector openings  158 , independent of, at least in part, the configuration of the distinct layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 , and the technique used to contact and/or couple the layers. 
     The various openings and apertures formed through the stack up forming backlit keyboard assembly  102 , as shown in  FIG. 2 , may receive a coupling component to couple a bottom case (see,  FIGS. 3-5 ) to top case  104 . That is, a portion of the openings and/or apertures formed through the layers of the stack up forming backlit keyboard assembly  102  may be configured to receive a screw, snap-fit component, or other suitable coupling components positioned on or through a bottom case. The coupling component may be coupled to top case  104 , to couple or fix a bottom case to the top case  104  to form an enclosure for backlit keyboard assembly  102 . 
       FIGS. 3-5  show illustrative cross-sectional front views of a portion of backlit keyboard assembly  102  including metal reflector  152 , according to various embodiments. Specifically,  FIGS. 3-5  show various embodiments of the stack up forming backlit keyboard assembly  102 , as shown in  FIG. 2 , and how each component or layer is positioned in an assembled backlit keyboard assembly  102 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 3 , backlit keyboard assembly  102  may include substantially similar components as those discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 2 . More specifically, backlit keyboard assemble  102  may include keys  106 , membrane  112 , metal feature plate  118 , mask  126 , light guide  136  and metal reflector  152 . As discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 2 , each of the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102  may contact or may be coupled to a respective adjacent layer. For example, metal feature plate  118  may be coupled to membrane  112 , and light guide  136  may contact mask  126 . 
     As discussed herein, backlit keyboard assembly  102  may include a contact component  159  positioned between keys  106  and membrane  112 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , contact component  159  may be a dome switch, which may be coupled to each key  106 , and may be capable of compressing or substantially inverting when key  106  is actuated by a user. Additionally as discussed herein, when key  106  is actuated, dome switch (e.g., contact component  159 ) may be compressed such that an inner, electrically conductive surface of the dome switch may form an electrical connection with a trace or sensor (not shown) positioned on or adjacent to membrane  112 . The trace or sensor may subsequently provide an electrical signal (e.g., input) to electronic device  100 , as discussed herein. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , and discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 2 , a space  160  may exist between light guide  136  and metal reflector  152 . More specifically, light guide  136  and metal reflector  152  may be separated by space  160  such that stray light emitted by light source  142  (see,  FIG. 2 ) may move to space  160  and be subsequently reflected back to light guide  136  by metal reflector  152 . Space  160  may be formed in backlit keyboard assembly by a spacer component  162 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , spacer component  162  may only contact and/or cover a small portion of metal reflector  152  and light guide  162 , respectively. 
     That is, spacer component  162  may provide space  160  between metal reflector  152  and light guide  136 . In a non-limiting example, as shown in  FIG. 3 , space  160  formed by spacer component  162  may be wider than keyhole  108  of top case  104  and mask opening  132  of mask  126 . In other non-limiting examples, space  160  may have a width that is equal to or less than the width of keyhole  108  of top case  104  and/or mask opening  132  of mask  126 . As discussed herein, space  160  may aid in providing stray light emitted into space  160  back to light guide  152  and ultimately key  106  and/or keyhole  108  of top case  104 . 
     Spacer component  162  may contact metal reflector  152  and light guide  136 , but may not necessarily be coupled to the respective layers. That is, and as discussed in detail below, the coupling of metal reflector  152  within backlit keyboard assembly  102  may hold spacer component  162  in place within the backlit keyboard assembly  102  without the need to couple or fix spacer component  162  to metal reflector  152  and/or light guide  136 . Spacer component  162  may be configured as any suitable rigid structure that may provide space  160  between metal reflector  152  and light guide  136 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , spacer component  162  may be positioned below and/or in alignment with at least a portion of skeletal rib  110  of top case  104 . Spacer component  162  may be positioned in alignment with skeletal rib  110  of top case  104  to reduce any light obstruction and/or to allow light to be provided to the keys  106  and/or opening  108  within backlit keyboard assembly  102 . 
     Metal reflector  152  may be coupled to metal feature plate  118 . More specifically, a portion of metal reflector  152  may be fixed to a portion of metal feature plate  118 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , metal reflector  152  may be coupled, fixed or joined to metal feature plate  118  using a welding technique. That is, metal reflector  152  may include an embossed portion  164  that may extend toward metal feature plate  118  through mask openings  134  and light guide openings  146 , respectively. Metal reflector openings  158  may be positioned through embossed portion  164  of metal reflector  152 , as shown in  FIG. 3 . Embossed portion  164  of metal reflector openings  158  may substantially contact and subsequently be fixed to second side  130  of metal feature plate  118  using any suitable welding technique. As discussed herein, metal feature plate  118  may also be coupled to distinct layers and/or top case  104  of backlit keyboard assembly  102  using any suitable fastener component or fastening technique (see,  FIGS. 4-7 ). Additionally, metal feature plate  118  may be coupled to distinct layers and/or top case  104  of backlit keyboard assembly  102  using any suitable coupling component or technique including, but not limited to the use of an adhesive. Embossed portion  164  may be formed within metal reflector  152  using any suitable embossing technique, or alternatively, embossed portion  164  may be formed by performing any suitable machine process (e.g., C-N-C machining process) on metal reflector  152 . 
     By coupling metal reflector  152  directly to metal feature plate  118 , the various layers positioned between metal reflector  152  and metal feature plate  118  may be sandwiched between and/or held in place within backlit keyboard assembly  102  by a compression fit formed between the two layers. That is, metal reflector  152  may form a substantially rigid end layer within backlit keyboard assembly  102 , to provide structural support to the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 . In addition, substantially rigid metal reflector  152  may press the various layers of the backlit keyboard assembly  102  together and/or hold the layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102  in place. Thus, metal reflector  152  and metal feature plate  118  may form a compression fit for mask  126 , light guide  136  and spacer component  162  when welded together, such that metal feature plate  118 , mask  126 , light guide  136 , spacer component  162  and/or metal reflector  152  may remain in contact without the use of adhesive or other suitable binding techniques. 
     As briefly discussed above, the formation of the openings (for example, membrane openings  116 , plate openings  124 , mask openings  134 ) in the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102  may be dependent on, or independent of, the configuration of the distinct layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 , and the technique used to contact and/or couple the layers. More specifically, openings formed in membrane  112  and metal feature plate  118  may not be present, dependent on the factors discussed above. In the example of  FIG. 3 , where metal reflector  152  is directly coupled to second side  130  of metal feature plate  118 , membrane  112  and metal feature plate  118  may not include membrane openings  116  and plate openings  124 , respectively. As such, and as shown in  FIG. 3 , membrane  112  and metal feature plate  118  may include a single, unitary layer when implemented in backlit keyboard assembly  102 , as shown in  FIG. 3 . 
     Conversely, and as briefly discussed above, mask  126 , light guide  136  and metal reflector  152  of backlit keyboard assembly  102  may include the respective openings (for example, mask openings  134 , light guide openings  146 ) independent of the factors discussed above. That is, and as shown in  FIG. 3 , mask  126 , light guide  136  and metal reflector  152  may include the respective openings to expose a portion of metal feature plate  118  to allow metal reflector  152  to be coupled or fixed to metal feature plate  118 . 
     Although discussed herein as a welding technique, it is understood that metal reflector  152  may be coupled to or fixed to metal feature plate  118  using any suitable material joining technique. In non-limiting examples, metal reflector  152  may be coupled to metal feature plate  118  using a soldering technique, a brazing technique, or an adhesive joining technique. 
       FIG. 4  shows backlit keyboard assembly  402  according to an additional embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 4 , top case  104  may include a plurality of apertures  166  (although a single aperture shown for clarity) formed partially though top case  104 . More specifically, top case  104  may include apertures  166  formed adjacent membrane  112  of backlit keyboard assembly  402 . Further, in some embodiments the apertures  166  may not extend completely through top case  104 . As discussed herein, the apertures  166  of may receive a coupling component  168  to releasably couple metal reflector  152  to top case  104 . In an another non-limiting example, metal reflector  152  may be coupled to top case  104  using a suitable fixing technique, such as welding, as similarly discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 3 . That is, embossed portion  158  may extend to top case  104 , which may or may not include apertures  166 , and embossed portion of metal reflector  152  may be welded to top case  104 . 
     Where metal reflector  152  is coupled to top case  104 , as shown in  FIG. 4  and discussed in detail below, the plurality of openings may be formed through all of the layers of backlit keyboard assembly  402 . More specifically, and as shown in  FIG. 4 , membrane  112  may include membrane openings  116  and metal feature plate  118  may include plate openings  124 . Additionally, as shown in  FIG. 4 , and as similarly discussed above with respect to  FIGS. 2 and 3 , mask  126  may include mask openings  134 , light guide  136  may include light guide openings  146 , and metal reflector  152  may include metal reflector openings  158 . The respective openings of backlit keyboard assembly  402  and the apertures  166  of top case  104  may be substantially aligned with one another, and may be configured to receive coupling component  168  for releasably coupling metal reflector  152  to top case  104 , as discussed herein. For example, membrane openings  116  may be in substantial alignment with apertures  166  of top case  104 , and metal reflector openings  158  of metal reflector  152 , respectively, and membrane openings  116 , apertures  166  and metal reflector openings  158  may all be configured to receive coupling component  168 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , coupling component  168  may be positioned through the respective openings of backlit keyboard assembly  402  to couple metal reflector  152  to top case  104 . More specifically, where coupling component  168  may be a screw, coupling component  168  may extend through the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  402 , such that a threaded portion  170  may extend into aperture  166  of top case  104 . Aperture  166  of top case  104  may have corresponding threads (not shown) positioned on sidewalls  172  of aperture  166  that may engage threaded portion  170  of coupling component  168  to couple metal reflector  152  to top case  104 . 
     Embossed portion  164  of metal reflector  152  may form an engagement component  174  positioned adjacent each of the metal reflector openings  158 . Engagement component  174  may engage coupling component  168  to aid in the coupling of metal reflector  152  to top case  104 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , engagement component  174  may extend from embossed portion  164  of metal reflector  152  toward coupling component  168 , and may engage or contact an end  176  of coupling component  168 . By engaging coupling component  168 , engagement component  174  may aid in the coupling of metal reflector  152  to top case  104 . 
     Additionally, engagement component  174  may aid in the coupling or contacting of the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  402  positioned between metal reflector  152  and top case  104 . That is, by coupling metal reflector  152  to top case  104  using coupling component  168 , the various layers positioned between metal reflector  152  and top case  104  may be sandwiched between and/or held in place within backlit keyboard assembly  102  by a compression fit formed between the coupled components. That is, metal reflector  152  may form a substantially rigid end layer within backlit keyboard assembly  102 , to provide structural support to the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 . In addition, substantially rigid metal reflector  152  may press the various layers of the backlit keyboard assembly  102  together and/or hold the layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102  in place. As similarly discussed above with respect to  FIG. 3 , reflector  152  and top case  104  may form a compression fit for membrane  112 , metal feature plate  118 , mask  126 , light guide  136  and spacer component  162  when coupled together using coupling component  168 . As a result of compression fit, membrane  112 , metal feature plate  118 , mask  126 , light guide  136 , spacer component  162  and/or metal reflector  152  may remain in contact without the use of adhesive or other suitable binding techniques. 
     Although discussed herein as a screw, coupling component  168  may include any suitable component configured to couple metal reflector  152  to top case  104 . In a non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 5 , coupling component  168  of backlit keyboard assembly  502  may be a snap-fit. Snap-fit may be positioned within aperture  166  of top case  104 , and may engage a shelf formed in sidewalls  172  of aperture  166  to couple snap-fit within top case  104 . As similarly discussed above with respect to  FIG. 4 , coupling component  168 , configured as a snap-fit in  FIG. 5 , may include end  176  which may engage engagement component  174  of metal reflector  152  when coupling metal reflector  152  to top case  104 . 
     With comparison to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , backlit keyboard assembly  502  of  FIG. 5  may not include spacer component  162 . Rather, backlit keyboard assembly  502 , as shown in  FIG. 5 , may include an adhesive  180  coupling a portion of metal reflector  152  to a portion of light guide  136 . Similar to spacer component  162 , adhesive  180  may only contact and/or cover a small portion of metal reflector  152  and light guide  136 , respectively. That is, like spacer component  162 , adhesive  180  may provide space  160  between metal reflector  152  and light guide  136 . As such, space  160  may provide an opening to ensure that the stray light emitted within space  160  may be reflected back to light guide  152 , and ultimately key  106  and/or keyhole  108  of top case  104 . 
     Additionally, as shown in  FIGS. 3-5 , metal reflector  152  of backlit keyboard assembly  102 ,  402 ,  502  may be coupled to a bottom case  182  of electronic device  100  (see,  FIG. 1 ). More specifically, where electronic device includes a top case  104  and bottom case  182 , metal reflector  152  may be directly coupled to bottom case  182  using any suitable coupling technique or component. Bottom case  182  may also be coupled to top case  104  for forming a protective, exterior shell for internal components of electronic device  100 , including backlit keyboard assembly  102 ,  402 ,  502 . Additionally, bottom case  182  may provide further support to metal reflector  152  and/or backlit keyboard assembly  102 ,  402 ,  502 . More specifically, bottom case  182  may provide further support by providing an additional compression fit, or sandwiching, the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 ,  402 ,  502  between top case  104  and bottom case  182 . This additional compression fit may further ensure that the various layers of backlit keyboard assembly  102 ,  402 ,  502  may not become uncoupled or uncontacted, even without the use of adhesive to bind the layers. 
       FIG. 6  shows an illustrative cross-sectional front view of a portion of backlit keyboard assembly  602  including a reflective metal inner surface  684  of a bottom case  682 , according to embodiments of the invention. As shown in  FIG. 6 , and in comparison to  FIGS. 3-5 , backlit keyboard assembly  602  may not include metal reflector  152 . Instead, bottom case  682  may include a reflective metal inner surface  684 . More specifically, in place of metal reflector  152 , reflective metal inner surface  684  may be positioned adjacent light guide  136 , and may be separated from light guide  136  by space component  162 . Reflective metal inner surface  684  of bottom case  682  may be separated from light guide  136  by space  160 . Reflective metal inner surface  684  of backlit keyboard assembly  602  may be configured to function substantially similar to metal reflector  152  in backlit keyboard assembly  102 , as discussed herein with respect to  FIGS. 3-5 . 
     Reflective metal inner surface  684  may include substantially similar light-reflective properties as metal reflector  152 . As such, during operation of backlit keyboard assembly  602 , reflective metal inner surface  684  may be configured to reflect stray light from light source  142  back to light guide  136 , and ultimately to the keys  106  and/or keyholes  108  of top case  104 . More specifically, and as discussed herein, some light generated by light source  142  may not be directed toward the keys  106  and/or top case  104 , but rather may stray below second side  156  of light guide  136 , and may be positioned between light guide  136  and reflective metal inner surface  684  of bottom case  682 . As a result of the light-reflective properties of reflective metal inner surface  684  of bottom case  682 , the stray light positioned between light guide  136  and reflective metal inner surface  684  may be reflected to first side  138  and may be subsequently directed toward the keys  106  and/or keyholes  108  of top case  104  by light guide  136 . 
     Reflective metal inner surface  684  may be formed on bottom case  682  using a variety of techniques and/or materials. In non-limiting example, bottom case  682  may be formed from stainless steel, aluminum or any other suitable metal having high light-reflectivity properties. When bottom case  682  is formed from a material including high light-reflectivity properties, reflective metal inner surface  684  may be consequently formed when creating bottom case  682 . In an further non-limiting example where bottom case  682  is formed from a material including high light-reflectivity properties, surface treatment(s) may be performed on reflective metal inner surface  684  prior to positioning reflective metal inner surface  684  within backlit keyboard assembly  602 . More specifically, reflective metal inner surface  684  may undergo a variety of surface treatment processes including, polishing, lapping and/or planing, to enhance the light-reflective properties of reflective metal inner surface  684 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , bottom case  682  including reflective metal inner surface  684  may include similar features as metal reflector  152  for coupling the layers of the stack up of backlit keyboard assembly  602  to each other and/or to top case  104 . More specifically, bottom case  682  may include a bottom case opening  686 , and an embossed portion  664  and an engagement component  674  positioned within and/or adjacent to bottom case opening  686 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , bottom case opening  686  may be in alignment with the plurality of apertures and openings (e.g., membrane openings  116 , plate openings  124 , mask openings  134 ) formed through the various layers of the stack up forming backlit keyboard assembly  602 . As similarly discussed herein with respect to metal reflector opening  158  in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , bottom case opening  686  may be configured to aid in coupling or securing the layers of the stack up of backlit keyboard assembly  602  to one another and/or between top case  104  and bottom case  682 . More specifically, coupling component  168  may be positioned through bottom case opening  686 , and may substantially engage engagement component  674  formed in embossed portion  664  of bottom case  682  for coupling bottom case  682  to top case  104 . In addition, and as discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 4 , coupling component  168  may include threaded portion  170  which may extend into aperture  166  of top case  104 , and may engage corresponding threads (not shown) positioned on sidewalls  172  of aperture  166  of top case  104  to coupled or fix bottom case  682  including reflective metal inner surface  684  to top case  104 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , bottom case  682  may include a recess  688  formed in alignment with bottom case opening  686 . Recess  688  may be formed in bottom case  682  in order to allow coupling component  168  to be positioned substantially within bottom case  682  and/or prevent coupling component  168  from protruding beyond outer surface  690  of bottom case  682 . Recess  688  may be substantially covered, and coupling component  168  may be substantially hidden during operation of electronic device  100  using any suitable component or technique. In a non-limiting example, recess  688  may be configured to receive a plug (not shown) which may substantially fill recess  688  of bottom case  682  and/or prevent coupling component  168  from being visible from outer surface  690  of bottom case  682 . In an additional, non-limiting example, recess  688  may also be covered by a removable cover plate (not shown) that may cover the entire outer surface  690  of bottom case  682 . 
     Additionally, bottom case  682  may sandwich layers via inner reflective surface  684  and spacer component  162 . That is, and as similarly discussed herein, by coupling bottom case  682  including reflective metal inner surface  684  to top case  104  using coupling component  168 , the various layers positioned between bottom case  682  and top case  104  may be sandwiched between and/or held in place within backlit keyboard assembly  602  by a compression fit formed between the coupled components. As similarly discussed above with respect to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , bottom case  682  and top case  104  may form a compression fit for membrane  112 , metal feature plate  118 , mask  126 , light guide  136  and spacer component  162  when coupled together using coupling component  168 . As a result of compression fit, membrane  112 , metal feature plate  118 , mask  126 , light guide  136 , and/or spacer component  162  may remain in contact without the use of adhesive or other suitable binding techniques. 
     Although shown as being substantially linear in  FIG. 6 , it is understood that reflective metal inner surface  684  formed on bottom case  682  may be substantially bent. More specifically, reflective metal inner surface  684  may be bent, shaped or formed within backlit keyboard assembly to extend upwards toward top case  104  and/or to be positioned through the openings and/or apertures formed in the various layers of the stack up forming backlit keyboard assembly  102 . By bending or positioning a portion of reflective metal inner surface  684  within the openings and/or apertures formed in the various layers of the stack up, reflective metal inner surface  684  may further aid in redirecting light through backlit keyboard assembly  102 . 
       FIG. 7  shows an illustrative cross-sectional front view of a portion of backlit keyboard assembly  702  including reflective metal inner surface  684  of bottom case  782 , according to embodiments of the invention. Backlit keyboard assembly  702  of  FIG. 7  may include substantially similar components as backlit keyboard assembly  602  in  FIG. 6 . That is, backlit keyboard assembly  702  may also include bottom case  782  including reflective metal inner surface  684 , as discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 6 . Redundant explanation of these similar components has been omitted for clarity. 
     As shown in  FIG. 7 , and distinct from  FIG. 6 , coupling component  168  may be positioned completely through top case  704  to couple bottom case  782  and top case  704 . More specifically, top case  704  may include a top case opening  790  formed completely through skeletal ribs  710 , where top case opening  790  may be configured to receive coupling component  168  to coupled bottom case  782  to top case  704 . As shown in  FIG. 7 , top case opening  790  may be in alignment with the plurality of apertures and openings (e.g., membrane openings  116 , plate openings  124 , mask openings  134 ) formed through the various layers of the stack up forming backlit keyboard assembly  702 . Top case opening  790  may also be in alignment with a bottom case partial-opening  792  formed in bottom case  782 . With comparison to bottom case opening  686  in  FIG. 6 , bottom case partial-opening  792  of bottom case  782  may not be formed completely through bottom case  782 . In a non-limiting example, and as similarly discussed herein with respect to  FIGS. 4 and 6 , coupling component  168  may be configured as a screw including threaded portion  170  for coupling bottom case  782  to top case  704 . Coupling component  168  may be positioned through and/or received by top case opening  790 , and threaded portion  170  may extend into bottom case partial-opening  792  of bottom case  782 , and may engage corresponding threads (not shown) positioned on sidewalls  794  of bottom case partial-opening  792  to coupled or fix bottom case  782  including reflective metal inner surface  684  to top case  704 . 
     Additionally, and as similarly discussed herein with respect to recess  688  of bottom case  682  in  FIG. 6 , top case  704  may include a recess  796 . Recess  796  may be formed in top case  704  in order to allow coupling component  168  to be positioned substantially within top case  704  and/or prevent coupling component  168  from protruding beyond outer surface  798  of top case  704 . Recess  796  may be substantially covered, and coupling component  168  may be substantially hidden during operation of electronic device  100  using any suitable component or technique, as similarly discussed herein with respect recess  688  shown in  FIG. 6 . Although shown as a distinct component in  FIG. 7 , coupling component  168  and top case  704  may be formed as a single, integral component for coupling top case  704  to bottom case  782 , and also coupling the various layers of the stack up forming backlit keyboard assembly  702  to one another. In a non-limiting example, top case  704  may include a coupling component portion, for example a snap-fit, extending into or through the various openings and/or apertures formed within the various layers of the stack up. The integral, coupling component portion of top case  704  may positioned within opening  792  of bottom case  782 , where opening  792  of bottom case  782  may receive the integral, coupling component portion of top case  704  to couple top case  704  to bottom case  782 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 8 , a method for assembling a backlit keyboard  102  (see,  FIG. 2 ) is now discussed. Specifically,  FIG. 8  is a flowchart depicting one sample method  800  for assembling a backlit keyboard, as discussed herein with respect to  FIGS. 2-7 . 
     In operation  802 , a light guide may be positioned adjacent to a metal feature plate coupled to a membrane. More specifically, the positioning of the light guide adjacent the metal feature plate may include coupling a mask to the metal feature plate and coupling the light guide to the mask coupled to the metal feature plate. As such, metal feature plate may be positioned between the membrane and the mask, and the mask may be positioned between the metal feature plate and the light guide. Additionally, the membrane coupled to the metal feature plate may be positioned between the metal feature plate and a top case surrounding a plurality of keys positioned on or in contact with the membrane. The light guide, the metal feature plate, the membrane, the mask, the top case and the keys may be substantially similar to the components discussed herein with respect to  FIGS. 2-7 . 
     In operation  804 , a metal reflective component may be positioned adjacent the light guide. The positioning of the metal reflective component adjacent the light guide may include providing a spacer component between the metal reflective component and the light guide. The spacer component may contact the metal reflective component and the light guide. Alternatively, the positioning of the metal reflective component may include adhering a portion of the metal reflective component and a portion of the light guide to an adhesive positioned between the metal reflective component and the light guide. The spacer component and/or the adhesive positioned between the metal reflective component and the light guide may provide a space between the metal reflective component and the light guide. The space positioned there between may ensure that the metal reflective component and the light guide may be positioned adjacent one another, but may not contact one another. The metal reflective component may be substantially similar to the component discussed herein with respect to  FIGS. 2-7 . That is, the metal reflective component may include a metal reflective layer, as shown in  FIGS. 2-5 , or a reflective metal inner surface of the bottom case, as shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 . Additionally, the spacer component may be substantially similar to the component discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 3 , and the adhesive may be substantially similar to the component discussed herein with respect to  FIG. 5 . 
     In operation  806 , the metal reflective component may be coupled to the top case or the metal feature plate. Where the metal reflective component is coupled to the top case, the metal reflective component may be releasably or temporarily coupled to the top case. Alternatively, where metal reflective component is coupled to the metal feature plate, the metal reflective component may be fixed to the metal feature plate. Metal reflective component may be coupled to the top case or the metal feature plate using any suitable coupling technique or coupling component, as similarly discussed herein with respect to  FIGS. 3-7 . 
     By utilizing the metal reflector within the backlit keyboard assembly, and specifically, coupling the metal reflector layer to the top case or the metal feature plate, the various layers forming backlit keyboard assembly may be securely sandwiched between metal reflector layer and the top case. That is, the metal reflector may be utilized within the backlit keyboard assembly to form a substantially rigid end layer that may secure the various layers of the backlit keyboard assembly within the electronic device without requiring a substantial amount or any adhesive to bind the layers, and may provide structural support to the various layers as well. Additionally, the metal reflector, including light-reflective properties, may be utilized with the backlit keyboard assembly to substantially redirect or reflect stray light back to a light guide, to be subsequently provided to the keys and/or the keyholes of the top case of the backlit keyboard assembly. That is, the metal reflector may reflect stray light back to the light guide, which ultimately increase the efficiency of the backlit keyboard assembly by providing a maximum amount of light, whether directly or reflected, to the keys and/or the keyholes of the top case. 
     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: 20140519
Publication Date: 20170711
Grant Date: 20170711
Priority Date: 20140519
Inventors: BROCK JOHN M.
MURPHY ROBERT S.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H01H11/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49107", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/702", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/06", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49107", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/06", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/06", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49107", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/702", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H11/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 54539092