PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-10097180-B2
Application Number: US-201615260242-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Reinforced key assembly

Abstract:
Embodiments are directed to a dome switch and methods related to the use thereto. In one aspect, an embodiment includes a key cap. The embodiment may further include a domed structure having upper and lower portions. The domed structure may be configured to deform in response to an input force received at the upper portion by the key cap. The embodiment may further include a collar affixed to the lower portion and extending toward the key cap. The collar may resist deformation of the domed surface.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A dome switch, comprising:
 a base; 
 a dome disposed over the base and having a substantially circular perimeter; 
 a collar surrounding the dome and connected along the substantially circular perimeter and having a raised portion extending from the base; 
 a key cap positioned above the dome; and 
 a sensing structure configured to detect a collapse of the dome caused by a depression of the key cap, wherein 
 the raised portion limits a downward motion of the key cap when the dome is collapsed. 
 
     
     
       2. The dome switch of  claim 1 , wherein the sensing structure comprises:
 a first sensing element disposed on the base and configured to detect contact of an interior surface of the upper portion of the dome with the base; and 
 a second sensing element disposed on the collar and configured to detect at least one of:
 motion of the dome; or 
 contact between the raised portion and the key cap. 
 
 
     
     
       3. The dome switch of  claim 2 , wherein:
 the first sensing element is configured to generate a first output in response to detecting the contact of the interior surface with the base; and 
 the second sensing element is configured to generate a second output in response to at least one of:
 detecting the motion of the dome; and 
 detecting the contact between the raised portion and the key cap. 
 
 
     
     
       4. The dome switch of  claim 1 , wherein the raised portion of the collar is configured to impede deformation of the dome after the upper portion contacts the base. 
     
     
       5. The dome switch of  claim 1 , wherein the collar is configured such that a force-displacement curve characteristic of the dome has at least two peaks. 
     
     
       6. The dome switch of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the dome and the collar define a gap therebetween; and 
 the gap is configured to shrink as the dome deforms. 
 
     
     
       7. A method of operating a dome switch, comprising:
 receiving a first displacement at a key cap positioned above a dome, thereby buckling the dome; 
 detecting a contact between an inner portion of the dome and a base portion disposed below the dome caused by the first displacement of the key cap; 
 generating a first user input signal in response to detecting the contact; 
 receiving a second displacement at the key cap that is greater than the first displacement; 
 detecting the second displacement of the key cap; 
 resisting the second displacement using a raised portion of a collar that is connected to a substantially circular perimeter of the dome; and 
 generating a second user input signal in response to detecting the second displacement. 
 
     
     
       8. The method of  claim 7 , wherein detecting the second displacement occurs while the contact between the inner portion and the base portion is maintained. 
     
     
       9. The method of  claim 7 , wherein
 the dome buckles so that the contact between the inner portion and the base portion occurs. 
 
     
     
       10. The method of  claim 7 , further comprising:
 identifying an orientation of at least one of the first displacement or the second displacement of the key cap relative to the collar. 
 
     
     
       11. The method of  claim 7 , further comprising:
 in response to detecting the second displacement, generating a first haptic effect; and 
 in response to the contact, generating a second haptic effect. 
 
     
     
       12. A dome switch, comprising:
 a base; 
 a key cap positioned above the base; 
 a dome having:
 an upper portion positioned below the key cap; and 
 a lower portion positioned on the base and defining a substantially circular perimeter; 
 
 a collar positioned about the substantially circular perimeter and having a raised portion that extends toward an underside of the key cap; and 
 a sensing element disposed on the base and configured to detect contact of the upper portion with the base, wherein 
 the raised portion limits a downward motion of the key cap. 
 
     
     
       13. The dome switch of  claim 12 , wherein:
 the dome comprises a dome wall extending between the upper and lower portions; 
 the dome is configured to buckle in response to a buckling force; and 
 a portion of the dome wall contacts the raised portion when the dome buckles, thereby causing the collar to resist deformation of the dome in response to an input force exceeding the buckling force. 
 
     
     
       14. The dome switch of  claim 13 , wherein:
 the sensing element is a first sensing element; and 
 the dome switch further comprises:
 a second sensing element positioned on the collar and configured to produce an electrical response in response to deformation of the dome. 
 
 
     
     
       15. The dome switch of  claim 14 , wherein the second sensing element comprises an array of capacitive-sensing elements disposed on a top surface of the collar. 
     
     
       16. The dome switch of  claim 15 , wherein:
 a portion of the key cap relative to each element of the array of capacitive-sensing elements defines an orientation of the key cap; and 
 the array of capacitive-sensing elements is configured to generate an output based on the orientation. 
 
     
     
       17. The dome switch of  claim 13 , wherein the collar relieves stress within the dome when the input force exceeds the buckling force. 
     
     
       18. The dome switch of  claim 13 , wherein the dome wall and the collar cooperate to control the input force required to deform the upper portion. 
     
     
       19. The dome switch of  claim 13 , wherein the raised portion has a thickness greater than a thickness of the dome wall. 
     
     
       20. The dome switch of  claim 13 , wherein a thickness of the lower portion is greater than a thickness of the upper portion. 
     
     
       21. The dome switch of  claim 12 , wherein the collar defines a chamfer opposite the dome. 
     
     
       22. The dome switch of  claim 21 , wherein the chamfer includes a sensing structure configured to detect at least one of a first deformation or a second deformation of the dome. 
     
     
       23. The dome switch of  claim 12 , wherein:
 the dome comprises a first material having a first stiffness; and 
 the collar comprises a second material having a second stiffness that differs from the first stiffness. 
 
     
     
       24. The dome switch of  claim 12 , wherein the collar is molded to the dome about the substantially circular perimeter.

Description:
FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to a key for an input device. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to a key for an input device having a reinforcement member. 
     BACKGROUND 
     In computing systems, a key may be employed to receive input from a user. Many traditional keys may suffer from significant drawbacks that may affect the longevity of the key. As such, the need continues for improved methods and approaches to facilitate receiving user input at a key. 
     SUMMARY 
     Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dome switch. 
     In a first aspect, the present disclosure includes a dome switch. The dome switch includes a key cap. The dome switch further includes a domed structure having upper and lower portions. The domed structure may be configured to deform in response to an input force received at the upper portion by the key cap. The dome switch further includes a collar coupled to the lower portion and extending toward the key cap. The collar may resist the deformation of the domed structure. 
     A number of feature refinements and additional features are applicable in the first aspect and contemplated in light of the present disclosure. These feature refinements and additional features may be used individually or in any combination. As such, each of the following features that will be discussed may be, but are not required to be, used with any other feature combination of the first aspect. 
     For example, in an embodiment, the domed structure may include a dome wall extending between the upper and lower portions. The domed structure may be configured to buckle in response to a buckling force. In this regard, a portion of the collar may abut the collar when the domed structure buckles. This may allow the collar to resist deformation of the domed structure in response to the input force exceeding a buckling force. 
     In another embodiment, the dome switch may further include a sensing element positioned on the collar and configured to produce an electrical response in response to deformation of the domed structure. The sensing element may include an array of capacitive-sensing elements disposed on a top surface of the reinforcement member. In this regard, a position of the key cap relative to each element of the array of capacitive-sensing elements may define an orientation of the key cap. Further, the array of capacitive-sensing elements may be configured to generate an output based on the orientation. 
     According to another embodiment, the collar may relieve stress within the domed structure when the input force exceeds the buckling force. The abutment of the dome wall and the collar may be operative to control the input force required to deform the upper portion. In some instances, the collar may have a thickness greater than a thickness of the dome wall. Further, a thickness of the lower portion may be greater than thickness of the upper portion. 
     In another embodiment, the collar may define a chamfer opposite the domed structure. The chamfer may extend around a perimeter of the domed structure. The chamfer may include a sensing element that is configured to detect a deformation of the chamfer. 
     In another embodiment, the domed structure may include a first material and the collar may include a second material. The first material may be different than the second material. By way of example, the second material may be stiffer than the first material. For example, the collar may be a component that is overmolded to the lower portion. 
     In this regard, a second aspect of the present disclosure includes a dome switch. The dome switch may include a base. The dome switch further includes a deformable structure having exterior and interior surfaces. The deformable structure may be disposed on the base portion. The dome switch further includes a ring abutting a portion of the exterior surface. The dome switch further includes a sensing structure. The sensing structure may be configured to detect: (i) a first deformation of the deformable structure; and (ii) a second deformation of the deformable structure. The interior surface may be configured to contact the base during at least one of the first and second deformations. 
     A number of feature refinements and additional features are applicable in the second aspect and contemplated in light of the present disclosure. These feature refinements and additional features may be used individually or in any combination. As such, each of the following features that will be discussed may be, but are not required to be, used with any other feature combination of the second aspect. 
     For example, in an embodiment, the sensing structure includes a first sensing element disposed on the base. The first sensing element may be configured to detect contact of the interior surface with the base. The sensing structure may further include a second sensing element disposed on the ring. The second sensing element may be configured to detect at least one of: (a) motion of the deformable structure; and (b) contact between the ring and an element encircling the deformable structure. The first sensing element may be configured to generate a first output in response to detecting the contact of the interior surface with the base. Further, the second sensing element may be configured to generate a second output in response to at least one of: (a) detecting the motion of the deformable structure; and (b) detecting the contact between the ring and the element encircling the deformable structure. 
     According to another embodiment, the ring may be configured to impede deformation of the deformable structure. Additionally, the ring may be configured such that a force-displacement curve characteristic of the deformable structure has at least two peaks. The deformable structure and the ring may define a gap therebetween. The gap may be configured to shrink as the deformable structure deforms. 
     In this regard, a third aspect of the present disclosure includes a method of operating a dome switch. The method includes detecting a contact between an inner portion of a domed structure and a base portion disposed below the domed structure. The method further includes generating a first user input signal in response to the contact. The method further includes detecting a displacement of an outer portion of the domed structure. The domed structure may include a reinforcement member configured to impede the displacement. The method further includes generating a second user input signal in response to the detected displacement. 
     A number of feature refinements and additional features are applicable in the third aspect and contemplated in light of the present disclosure. These feature refinements and additional features may be used individually or in any combination. As such, each of the following features that will be discussed may be, but are not required to be, used with any other feature combination of the third aspect. 
     For example, in an embodiment, the detecting of the displacement further includes detecting the displacement of the outer portion while the contact between the inner portion and the base portion is maintained. In some instances, the domed structure buckles so that the contact between the inner portion and the base portion occurs. Accordingly, the reinforcement member may impede the displacement when the domed structure is buckled. 
     The method may further include identifying an orientation of the displacement of the outer portion relative to the reinforcement member. 
     According to another embodiment, the method may further include, in response to the detected displacement, generating a first haptic effect. Additionally, the method may further include, in response to the contact, generating a second haptic effect. 
     In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiment described above, further aspects and embodiments will become apparent by reference to the drawings and by study of the following description. 
    
    
     
       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. 1A  depicts a sample electronic device including a keyboard; 
         FIG. 1B  depicts a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the user input device of  FIG. 1A , taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 2A  depicts a top view of a sample domed structure; 
         FIG. 2B  depicts a cross-sectional view of the domed structure of  FIG. 2A , taken along line B-B of  FIG. 2A ; 
         FIG. 2C  depicts a top view of another sample domed structure; 
         FIG. 3  depicts a sample force-displacement curve for the sample domed structures of  FIGS. 2A-2C ; 
         FIG. 4A  depicts a top view of yet another a domed structure; 
         FIG. 4B  depicts a cross-sectional view of the domed structure of  FIG. 4A , taken along the line C-C of  FIG. 4A ; 
         FIG. 4C  depicts a bottom view of the sample domed structure of  FIG. 4A ; 
         FIG. 5  depicts a force-displacement curve for the domed structure of  FIGS. 4A-4C ; 
         FIG. 6A  depicts a cross-sectional view of the keyboard of  FIG. 1A  in a first configuration, taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 6B  depicts a cross-sectional view of the keyboard of  FIG. 1A  in a second configuration, taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 6C  depicts a cross-sectional view of the keyboard of  FIG. 1A  in a third configuration, taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 6D  depicts a cross-sectional view of the keyboard of  FIG. 1A  in a fourth configuration, taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1A ; and 
         FIG. 7  is a flow diagram of a method for operating a dome switch. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The description that follows includes sample systems, methods, and apparatuses that embody various elements of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the described disclosure may be practiced in a variety of forms in addition to those described herein. 
     The present disclosure describes systems, devices, and techniques related to a keyboard assembly and, more particularly, to a dome switch used within a keyboard assembly. The dome switch may include a domed structure, deformable structure, and/or any other appropriate structure having a deformable convex top surface. A collar, reinforcement member, or other structural member may extend around a perimeter of the domed structure. The collar or reinforcement member may abut and/or couple with the domed structure, such that it reinforces the domed structure. 
     The collar or reinforcement member may impede deformation of the domed or deformable structure. For example, a key cap of an associated key may impact and deform the domed structure as the key moves towards the domed structure in response to a received force. The collar may abut the domed structure such that it prevents the domed structure deforming beyond a predetermined amount or point. This may decrease stress and strain on the domed structure over time. Thus, the collar may reduce degradation of the domed structure, thereby enhancing the longevity of a dome switch subjected to repeated, prolonged, and/or excessive applications of force. 
     The dome switch may also include a sensing element coupled to a portion of the collar. The sensing element be a component of a sensing structure that is configured to detect a range of deformations of the domed or deformable structure. The sensing structure may also include an electrical contact disposed below the domed structure to detect multiple switch events initiated by collapse of the dome. This may allow the dome switch to control one or more functions of a computing device. 
     For example, the dome switch may control a first function of a computing device in response to the sensing structure detecting contact between the electrical contact and an inner portion of the domed structure. The dome switch may control a second function of a computing device in response to the sensing structure detecting a certain amount of deflection or deformation of the domed structure. This deflection or deformation may be less than that required for the domed structure to impact the electrical contact. The sensing structure may detect the foregoing parameters of the domed structure using one sensing element (e.g., a capacitive sensor) or multiple sensing elements (e.g., a capacitive sensor, an electrical contact sensor, or the like), as may be appropriate for a given application. 
     Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which assist in illustrating various features of the present disclosure. The following description is presented for purposes of illustration and description. Furthermore, the description is not intended to limit the inventive aspects to the forms disclosed herein. Consequently, variations and modifications commensurate with the following teachings, and skill and knowledge of the relevant art, are within the scope of the present inventive aspects. 
       FIG. 1  depicts an example electronic device  104  having a keyboard assembly  108 . Each key of the keyboard assembly  108  may include a “stack up” of layered components that cooperate to trigger a switch event in response to a force input. The keyboard assembly  108  may include one or more dome switches, such as the dome switch discussed above and described in greater detail below. In this regard, each key of the keyboard assembly  108  may include a collar (e.g., a reinforcement member) that extends around a perimeter of a key&#39;s domed or deformable structure, thereby reinforcing the domed or deformable structure when the structure collapses. For example, as described in greater detail below, the collar may abut and/or couple with the domed structure to resist a translation and/or a deformation of the domed structure when the dome switch is depressed. 
     In a non-limiting example, as shown in  FIG. 1 , the electronic device  104  may be a laptop computer. However, it is understood that electronic device  104  may be any suitable device that operates with the keyboard assembly  108  (or any other suitable device). Other examples of electronic devices may include wearable devices (including watches, glasses, rings, or the like), health monitoring devices (including pedometers, heart rate monitors, or the like), and other electronic devices, including digital cameras, printers, scanners, security systems or devices, or electronics for automobiles, among other electronic devices. For purposes of illustration,  FIG. 1A  depicts the electronic device  104  as including the keyboard assembly  108 , an enclosure  112 , a display  116 , and one or more input/output members  120 . It should be noted that the electronic device  104  may also include various other components, such as one or more ports (e.g., a charging port, a data transfer port, or the like), communications elements, additional input/output members (including buttons), and so on. As such, the discussion of any computing device, such as computing device  104 , is meant as illustrative only. 
     The keyboard assembly  108  may be positioned within the enclosure  112 . In a non-limiting example shown in  FIG. 1 , the keyboard assembly  108  may include a set of key caps  110 . The set of key caps  110  may partially protrude from the enclosure  112  and each key cap of the set of key caps  110  may be substantially surrounded by the enclosure  112 . The set of key caps  110  may be configured to receive a force input. The force input may depress a particular one of the set of keycaps  110  to trigger one or more switch events that may control the electronic device  104 . As depicted, the keyboard assembly  108  may be positioned within the electronic device  104 . In an alternative embodiment, the keyboard assembly  108  may be a distinct, standalone component in electronic communication with the electronic device via a wireless or hardwired connection. 
       FIG. 1B  is a cross-sectional view of the keyboard assembly  108  of  FIG. 1A , taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1A . As illustrated, the keyboard assembly  108  includes a domed structure  124  (e.g., a deformable structure), a collar  128  (e.g., a reinforcement member), a key cap  132 , a substrate  136  (e.g., a printed circuit board having one or more sensors or electrical contacts or the like), and a support structure  140 . The substrate  136  may define a base or base portion of the keyboard assembly  108 . The domed structure  124  may be formed from any appropriate material (e.g., including metal, rubber, or the like) that exhibits sufficiently elastic characteristics. For example, the domed structure  124  may be sufficiently elastic or resilient such that it does not permanently deform from applied force (e.g., the domed structure  124  may substantially return to an original or undeformed shape after the force ceases). In this regard, the key cap  132  may deform the domed structure  124  upon the depression of the key cap  132 . In turn, the domed structure may return to an undeformed shape when the key cap  132  returns to a neutral or undepressed condition. The domed structure  124  may not be limited to the above example materials, and may also include any other appropriate materials consistent with the various embodiments presented herein, including silicone, plastic or other flexible and resilient materials. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1B , the support structure  140  may support the key cap  132 . The support structure  140  may be constructed from any appropriate material (e.g., including plastic, metal, composites, ceramics, or the like). The support structure  140  may be a scissor mechanism or a butterfly mechanism that may contract and expand during depression and release of the key cap  132 , respectively. In other embodiments, the support structure  140  may be defined by various other components contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     The key cap  132  may contact the domed structure  124  to trigger a switch event (described in more detail below with respect to  FIGS. 6A-6D ). For example, one or more sensing elements (e.g., a sense layer  154 , a drive layer  158 ) may detect a deformation and/or translation of the domed structure  124  (or a portion thereof) and trigger a corresponding switch event. Additionally or alternatively, one or more sensing elements (e.g., a contact sensor  150 ) may detect a contact between an underside of the domed structure  124  and the substrate  136  disposed below the domed structure  124  to trigger another switch event. For example, the one or more sensing elements may detect a contact between the domed structure  124  and a base or base portion of the keyboard assembly  108 . The sense layer  154 , drive layer  158 , and/or contact sensor  150  may collectively define a sensing structure configured to detect a range of deformations of the domed structure  124  and/or trigger multiple switch events. 
     The domed structure  124  may be disposed on the substrate  136 . The domed structure  124  and the substrate  136  (together with any other appropriate components) may define a dome switch that triggers a switch event, or multiple switch events, upon the buckling and/or deformation of the dome switch (or a portion thereof). The substrate  136  may define a base or base portion of the keyboard assembly  108 . The substrate  136  may include any appropriate, electrically conductive material, including, but not limited to, a metal layer, an indium tin oxide or other alloy layer, a conductive composite layer, and so on. The substrate  136  may include at least one trace or sensor positioned on a top or bottom surface, or within, the substrate  136  (e.g., such as the contact sensor  150 ). The contact sensor  150  may detect contact between the substrate  136  and the domed structure  124  (e.g., such as a contact between a protrusion  125  and the contact sensor  150 ). In response to the detected contact, the contact sensor  150  may generate an electrical response. The electrical response may be a user input signal corresponding to a predetermined function that is executable by a computing device. 
     The collar  128  may extend around a perimeter of the domed structure  124 . The collar  128  may be constructed of any appropriate materials (e.g., including metal, rubber, plastic, composite, or the like) that exhibits sufficient rigidity. For example, the collar  128  may have a sufficient rigidity in order to impede or resist deformation of the domed structure  124  (or a portion thereof). In some cases, various other physical attributes of the collar  128  (e.g., including width, height, surface features, and so on) may be modified to increase or otherwise adjust the rigidity of the collar  128 . The collar  128  need not be limited to the above example materials, and may also include other appropriate materials consistent with the various embodiments discussed herein. 
     The collar  128  may be constructed of a material different than that of the domed structure  124 . As a non-limiting example, the collar  128  may be a hardened plastic overmolded on the domed structure  124 . The collar  128  may be stiffer than the domed structure  124 . The greater stiffness of the collar  128  may allow the collar  128  to resist deformation of the domed structure  124 . Alternatively, the collar  128  may be the same material as the domed structure  124 . In some cases, the collar  128  and the domed structure  124  may be a unitary component. 
     The collar  128  may abut and/or couple with the domed structure  124  to reinforce the domed structure  124 . For example, the collar  128  may reinforce the domed structure  124  when the key cap  132  is depressed. To illustrate, depression of the key cap  132  may cause at least a portion of the domed structure  124  to translate and deform until the domed structure  124  buckles (e.g., collapses). The domed structure  124  is therefore configured to deform in response to the depression of the key cap  132 . Continued depression of the key cap  132  subsequent to the domed structure  124  buckling may create an overloaded condition. In an overloaded condition, the domed structure  124  may further deform (e.g., including bowing, or extending out in a direction transverse to the depression of the key cap  132 ), thereby causing increased stress and strain within the domed structure  124 . 
     The collar  128  may resist deformation of the domed structure  124  resulting from an overloaded condition. The collar  128  may physically obstruct deformation of the domed structure  124  beyond a predetermined point. This may be due to the abutment of the collar  128  with the domed structure  124  as the domed structure  124  collapses. Accordingly, and as described above, the collar  128  may have physical attributes (e.g., including a sufficient rigidity, thickness, height, and so on) to resist deformation of the domed structure  124  in an overloaded condition. For example, the collar  128  may be sufficiently rigid to counteract a force caused by the continued depression of the key cap  132 , thereby impeding the continued deformation of the domed structure  124 . This may reduce strain within the domed structure  124  when the key cap  132  is depressed. 
     In this regard,  FIG. 2A  depicts a dome switch  200  having a domed structure  204  and a collar  208 . As described above, the collar  208  may be a reinforcement member. The domed structure  204  and the collar  208  may be substantially analogous to the domed structure  124  and the collar  128  described with respect to  FIG. 1B . The domed structure  204  may be a deformable structure. For example, the collar  208  may abut or otherwise encircle the domed structure  204  to reinforce the domed structure  204 . 
     The domed structure  204  may have an upper portion  212  and a lower portion  216 . The domed structure  204  may include a dome wall  220  extending between the lower portion  216  and the upper portion  212 . As depicted in  FIG. 2A , the domed structure  204  may be substantially planar at the upper portion  212 . The lower portion  216  may be wider than the upper portion  212 . 
     The domed structure  204  may have a top surface  222  as part of the upper portion  212 . The top surface  222  may be substantially planar and configured to receive a contact force from a key cap (e.g., such as the key cap  132  described with respect to  FIG. 1B ). In other embodiments, the top surface  222  may include various other features (e.g., including indentations, protrusions, or the like) to receive or engage a key cap. 
     In one embodiment, the collar  208  may be coupled to the domed structure  204  at the lower portion  216 . For example, the collar  208  may be affixed to the domed structure  204  at the lower portion  216  by any appropriate mechanism, including via an adhesive, mechanical fasteners, an overmold, or the like. In the case of an overmold, the collar  208  may be formed from an injection moldable plastic or other polymer that is molded over the domed structure  204 . Molding the collar  208  over the domed structure  204  may directly bond the collar  208  to the lower portion  216  such that the collar  208  is affixed to the domed structure  204 . 
     The collar  208  may be separated from the domed structure  204  such that a gap, channel, void, or the like exists between the collar  208  and the domed structure  204 . A size and a shape of the gap  224  may change based on a state (e.g., such as a state of deformation) of the domed structure  204 . For example, the size and the shape of the gap  224  may change as the domed structure deforms in response to a contact force received at the top surface  222 . 
     The domed structure  204  may be configured to deform in response to a force received at the top surface  222  (e.g., such as a force received from a key cap being depressed on to the domed structure  204 ). As one example, the upper portion  212  may translate (e.g., relative to the lower portion  216 ) and subsequently collapse in response to the received force. In turn, the dome wall  220  may collapse or otherwise deform as the domed structure  204  buckles. As the dome wall  220  buckles, the size and the shape of the gap  224  may change based at least partially on the physical attributes of the collar  208  and the position of the collar  208  in relation to the domed structure  204 . 
     The collar  208  may resist an elongation or bowing of the domed structure  204  in a direction towards the collar  208 , once the domed structure impacts (or otherwise contacts or abuts) the collar. As the upper portion  212  translates, the lower portion  216  may deform toward the collar  208 . The lower portion  216  may bow or otherwise extend in a direction away from the domed structure  204 . The abutment of the collar  208  with the lower portion  216  may prevent or impede the lower portion  216  from deforming. The collar  208  may therefore define a physical barrier that prevents the lower portion  216  from deforming beyond a predetermined point. This may reduce strain within the domed structure  204  because the collar  208  reduces the deformation of the domed structure  120404  during continued or prolonged applications of force. 
     The domed structure  204  may also include sensing element  228 . The sensing element  228  may be a sensing structure. In a non-limiting embodiment, the sensing element  228  may be a component of a capacitive sensor having capacitive-sensing elements. The sensing element may be a discrete electrode (e.g., including a plate, conductor, or other appropriate element) that defines a touch-sensing region. A capacitance may be defined between the sensing element  228  and another electrode disposed on or within the domed structure. The another electrode may be disposed on the dome switch  200  and/or (with reference to  FIG. 1A ) electronic device  104  or the set of key caps  110 . Accordingly, as discussed in greater detail below with respect to  FIGS. 6A-6D , a change in capacitance may be detected upon the translation of the domed structure  204  (or a portion thereof). In some cases, the electronic device  104  may execute one or more functions based on the detected change in capacitance. 
     In one embodiment, the sensing element  228  may produce an electrical signal varying with a magnitude of a detected change in capacitance. For example, the sensing element  228  may generate a first electrical signal in response to a first translation or first deformation of the domed structure  204  (corresponding to a first magnitude of a change in capacitance). Similarly, the sensing element  228  may generate a second electrical signal in response to a second translation or second deformation of the domed structure  204  (corresponding to a second magnitude of a change in capacitance). In some instances, the first and second electrical signals may be used to control separate functions executable on a computing device. This may allow a keyboard key to cause multiple functions to be executed by a computing device based on the degree to which a user depresses the key. Additionally or alternatively, and as discussed in greater detail below with respect to  FIGS. 6A-6D , the sensing element  228  may be used in conjunction with an electrical contact disposed below the domed structure  204  in order to trigger a switch event based on the translation of the domed structure  204  and/or a contact between the domed structure  204  and the electrical contact. 
     In another embodiment, the sensing element  228  may be a strain-sensing element (e.g., a piezoelectric sensor, strain gauge, or the like) disposed on and/or within the collar  208 . The sensing element  228  may detect a deformation of the domed structure  204 . For example, the sensing element  228  may exhibit a change in an electrical property in response to a mechanical stress within the domed structure  204  and/or the collar  208  (e.g., such as a mechanical stress induced by the depression of a key cap in a direction toward the domed structure  204 ). Analogous to the embodiments described above, the sensing element  228  may be used to control one or more functions of a computing device based on a change in electrical property exhibited by the strain-sensing element. In some instances, the sensing element  228  may include one or more of, or both of, a capacitive sensor (e.g., having capacitive-sensing elements) and a strain-sensing element and/or any other appropriate sensing element according to the embodiments described herein. 
       FIG. 2B  is a cross-sectional view of the dome switch  200  of  FIG. 2A , taken along line B-B of  FIG. 2A . As depicted, the domed structure  204  may have an interior surface  232  and an exterior surface  236 . The interior surface  232  may define a cavity  240  between the domed structure  204  and a substrate, base, or base portion of the keyboard assembly (e.g., such as substrate  136  depicted in  FIG. 1B ). A portion of the interior surface  232  may define a protrusion  244  extending into the cavity  240 . 
     In one embodiment, the cavity  240  may collapse upon translation of the upper portion  212 . For example, the dome wall  220  may buckle in response to the upper portion  212  translating a predefined distance (e.g., such as a distance corresponding to a predefined buckling force). In some instances, upon the collapsing of the cavity  240 , the protrusion  244  may contact a substrate or other surface disposed below the domed structure  204  to trigger a switch event. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2B , the dome walls  220  may have a wall width  248  and the collar  208  may have a collar width  252  (e.g., such as a width of the collar  208  at a mid-point of the collar  208 ). The collar  208  may be constructed with the collar width  252  to facilitate the collar  208  impeding the deformation of the domed structure  204 . As shown, the collar width  252  may be greater than the wall width  248 . The collar width  252  being greater than the wall width  248  may allow the collar  208  to physically obstruct the deformation of the domed structure  204  as the domed structure  204  presses into the collar  208 . This may occur when the domed structure  204  deforms in response to exerted force. In other instances, the collar width  252  may be equal to, or less than, the wall width  248 , as may be appropriate for a given application. This may be the case for example, when the collar  208  is constructed from a material different than that of the domed structure  204  (e.g., such as an injection moldable plastic collar molded over a rubber dome). 
     The collar  208  may have a bottom portion with a bottom collar width  256  and a top portion with a top collar width  260 . As depicted in  FIG. 2B , the bottom collar width  256  may be greater than the top collar width. This may mechanically stabilize the collar  208  by lowering a center of gravity of the collar  208  towards the bottom portion of the collar  208 . Due to the lower center of gravity, the collar  208  may be less susceptible to bending, twisting, or the like when the domed structure  204  exerts a force on the collar  208  (e.g., such as that caused by a deformation of the domed structure  204 ). This may allow the collar  208  to resist a greater amount of deformation of the domed structure  204  once the domed structure impacts the collar, as compared with a collar having a higher center of gravity. 
       FIG. 2C  presents a top view of the dome switch  200  according to an alternative embodiment. Here,  FIG. 2C  depicts an array of sensing elements  229  on a top surface  222  of the collar  208 . Analogous to the sensing element  228  described with respect to  FIG. 2A , each sensing element of the array of sensing elements  229  may be a discrete electrode of a force-sensing region. In this regard, a capacitance may be defined between any of the array of sensing elements  229  and another electrode of the dome switch  200  or, with reference to  FIGS. 1A and 1B , electronic device  104  or the key cap  132 . A change in capacitance may be detected between any of the array of sensing elements  229  and the another electrode to identify deformation of the domed structure  204 . 
     The array of sensing elements  229  may detect an orientation of the key cap  132 , which may be disposed above the domed structure  204 . The key cap  132  may include one or more electrodes disposed on, or within, the key cap  132 . A change in capacitance may be detected between the array of sensing elements  229  and the electrodes of the key cap  132  when the key cap  132  is pressed towards the domed structure  204 . When the key cap  132  is pressed towards the domed structure  204  at an angle, a first portion of the key cap  132  may be closer to the array of sensing elements  229  than a second portion of the key cap  132 . Accordingly, a capacitance measured between the array of sensing elements  229  and the first portion of the key cap  132  may be different than a capacitance measured between the array of sensing elements  229  and the second portion of the key cap  132 . Each measured capacitance may be correlated with a distance between the array of sensing elements  229  and the respective portion of the key cap  132  to determine an orientation or angle at which the key cap  132  presses onto the domed structure  204 . 
     In some embodiments, each of the sensing elements  229  may be strain-sensing elements. The strain-sensing elements may be configured to measure a deformation of the domed structure  204 , as described above in relation to  FIG. 2B . Additionally or alternatively, the array of sensing elements  229  may include a combination of capacitive electrodes (or capacitive-sensing elements) and strain-sensing elements that may operate together to detect a translation and/or deformation of the domed structure  204 . 
       FIG. 3  depicts a force-displacement diagram  300 . The force-displacement diagram  300  depicts a sample force required to displace a portion of a domed structure, such as any of the domed structures described with respect to  FIGS. 1A-2C . In particular and with reference to  FIGS. 2A-2C , diagram  300  depicts a curve  304  that represents the force required to displace the upper portion  212  of the domed structure  204 . 
     The diagram  300  includes a displacement axis  308  and a force axis  312 . The displacement axis  308  represents a perpendicular displacement of the upper portion  212  of the domed structure  204  (e.g., such as the displacement caused by the depression of a key cap disposed above the domed structure  204 ). Increasing values along the displacement axis  308  indicate translation of the upper portion  212  from a neutral position. The force axis  312  may represent a force required to displace the upper portion  212  to a respective position represented on the displacement axis  308 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , the force required to displace the upper portion  212  may gradually increase until the upper portion  212  reaches a first deflection point D 1 . This gradual increase in force may at least partially be due to the resistance of the domed structure  204  to change shape. The force required to displace the upper portion  212  to D 1  may be referred to as the “operative” or “peak force,” represented on curve  304  by F 1 . As the upper portion  212  is displaced to a second deflection point D 2 , the domed structure  204  may no longer be able to resist the applied force, and may buckle (e.g., the dome wall(s)  220  may begin to buckle). The force required to displace the upper portion  212  between the first deflection point D 1  and the second deflection point D 2  may gradually decrease and is represented at curve  304  by F 2 . 
     When the upper portion  212  reaches the second deflection point D 2 , an electrical “make” event occurs in which the protrusion  244  or other portion of the interior surface  232  contacts a substrate disposed below the domed structure  204  to trigger a switch event. In this regard, displacement of the upper portion  212  past D 2  may cause the domed structure  204  to deform, for example, due to a counterforce provided by the substrate. As such, the upper portion  212  is displaced to a third deflection point D 3 , corresponding to a maximum displacement or “bottom-out” position. The force required to displace the upper portion  212  to the third deflection point D 3  substantially increases. In this regard, F 3  is depicted on the curve  304  as the force required to displace the upper portion  212  to the third deflection point D 3 . 
     The physical attributes of one or more of (and/or a combination of) the collar  208  and the domed structure  204  may define the amount of force required to translate the upper portion  212 . The collar  208  may be configured to increase the amount of force required to translate the upper portion  212  beyond the second deflection point D 2 . For example, the collar  208  may impede the deformation of the domed structure  204  when the upper portion  212  translates beyond the second deflection point D 2 . Accordingly, because the collar  208  impedes deformation of the domed structure  204 , a greater amount of force may be required to translate the upper portion  212  beyond the second deflection point D 2 . 
     As depicted in  FIG. 3 , the curve  304  may represent the dome switch  200 , which includes the domed structure  204  and the collar  208 . In this manner, the force required to displace the upper portion  212  beyond the second deflection point D 2  may increase at a substantial rate, for example, due to the reinforcement provided by the collar  208 . By way of comparison, diagram  300  also depicts a curve  306  (depicted by a phantom line in  FIG. 3 ), which may represent the force required to displace a top surface of a domed or deformable structure that does not abut or couple with a collar or reinforcement member. 
     As shown, the domed structure represented by the curve  306  may be displaced further, than the domed structure  204  represented by the curve  304 . Accordingly, diagram  300  graphically depicts the effect of adding the collar  208  (e.g., a reinforcement member) to the domed structure  204 . That is, the collar  208  may resist the deformation of the domed structure  204  after the domed structure impacts (or otherwise contacts) the collar, thereby requiring a greater amount of force to translate the upper portion  212  between the second deflection point D 2  and the third deflection point D 3 . In one instance, because the collar  208  may reduce the maximum displacement of the upper portion  212  in an overloaded condition, the collar  208  may reduce the degradation of the domed structure  204  (e.g., by reducing the strain experienced within the domed structure  204 ). This may enhance the longevity of the dome switch, despite being subjected to excessive applications of force. 
       FIGS. 4A-4C  illustrate various views and components of a dome switch  400  according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The dome switch  400  shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 4A-4C  may be substantially analogous to the dome switch  200  described above with respect to  FIGS. 2A-2C . For example, the dome switch  400  may include a collar or other reinforcement member that extends around a perimeter of a domed structure. In this regard, analogous to the components described in relation to the embodiments of  FIGS. 2A-2C , the dome switch  400  may include: domed structure  404 ; collar  408 ; upper portion  412 ; lower portion  416 ; dome wall  420 ; top surface  422 ; gap  424 ; sensing element  428  (e.g., a sensing structure); interior surface  432 ; exterior surface  236 ; cavity  440 ; protrusion  444 ; wall width  448 ; and collar width  452 . The domed structure  404  may be a deformable structure. 
       FIG. 4A  illustrates the dome switch  400  according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Notwithstanding the foregoing similarities to the dome switch  200 , the dome switch  400  may include a collar  408  having (with reference to  FIGS. 4A-4C ) a chamfer  410 . The chamfer  410  may be disposed on an underside of the collar  408  opposite the domed structure  404 . The chamfer  410  may modify the amount of force required to translate the upper portion  412 , as compared to an embodiment involving an unchamfered collar or reinforcement member. The chamfer  410  may also modify the tactile response of the dome switch  400  by providing tactile feedback subsequent to an electrical “make” event between the protrusion  444  and a substrate disposed below the domed structure  404 . In some instances, the sensing element  428  may be disposed on the chamfer  410  in order to detect the translation and/or deformation of the domed structure  404 . 
       FIG. 4B  is a cross-sectional view of the dome switch  400  of  FIG. 4A , taken along line C-C of  FIG. 4A . As shown in in  FIG. 4B , the chamfer  410  may be defined by a portion of the collar  408  that is cut or otherwise removed from the collar  408 . The chamfer  410  may extend between the lower or bottom portion  416  and, for example, a mid-plane of the collar  408 . In other cases, the chamfer  410  may be defined by an upper or top portion or side wall of the collar  208 . The chamfer  410  may be linear or non-linear to achieve a desired tactile response and/or a desired amount of force required to move the top portion  412 . In some embodiments, the chamfer  410  may extend around a perimeter of the domed structure  404 . 
       FIG. 4C  shows the bottom of the dome switch  400  of  FIG. 4A . As depicted in  FIG. 4C , the sensing element  428  may be disposed on a surface of the chamfer  410 . When the sensing element  428  is a capacitive sensor, a capacitance may be defined between the sensing element  428  and another electrode of the dome switch  400  (e.g., on a substrate opposite the chamfer  410 ). The chamfer  410  may translate and/or deform upon the application of force at the top surface  422 . In this regard, a change in capacitance may be detected based, in part, on the translation and/or deformation of the chamfer  410 . Upon the detection of a predefined magnitude of a change in capacitance, the dome switch  400  may trigger a switch event. Additionally or alternatively, the sensing element  428  may be used as a force sensor by associating various magnitudes of a change in capacitance with a force exerted on the dome switch  400 . 
       FIG. 5  is a force-displacement diagram  500 . Analogous to the force-displacement diagram  300 , the force-displacement diagram  500  may depict a sample force required to displace a portion of a domed structure, such as the domed structure  404  described in relation to  FIGS. 4A-4C . In this regard, the diagram  500  may include: a curve  504 ; a displacement axis  508 ; and a force axis  512 . 
     Notwithstanding the similarities to the diagram  300 , diagram  500  includes the curve  504 , which represents the amount of force required to displace the upper portion  412  of the domed structure  404 . As described above, the domed structure  404  may be a component of the dome switch  400 . The dome switch  400  includes the collar  408  having the chamfer  410 . As shown in the diagram  300 , the chamfer  410  may cause the curve  504  to have two peaks. The curve  504  has a first peak, at which the upper portion  412  is displaced to a first deflection point D 1 ′ by a force F 1 ′. Further, the curve  504  has a second peak, at which the upper portion  412  is displaced to a second deflection point D 2 ′ by a force F 2 ′. 
     Analogous to the embodiments described in relation to  FIG. 3 , F 1 ′ may correspond to a force that causes the domed structure  404  to buckle. For example, displacing the upper portion  412  to the first deflection point D 1 ′ may cause the dome wall  420  to buckle. In this regard, the force required to displace the upper portion  412  beyond the first deflection point D 1 ′ initially decreases until an electrical “make” event occurs. The electrical make event may be caused by a contact between the protrusion  444  and a substrate disposed below the domed structure  404 . 
     As shown in in  FIG. 5 , subsequent to an electrical make event, the amount of force required to displace the upper portion  412  may gradually increase, for example, due to a counterforce provided by the substrate and the collar  408 . The amount of force required to displace upper portion  412  may gradually increase until the upper portion  412  reaches the second deflection point D 2 ′. The displacement of the upper portion  412  to the second deflection point D 2 ′ may represent the second peak of the curve  504 . The force required to displace the upper portion  412  to the second deflection point D 2 ′ is represented on curve  504  by F 2 ′. The amount of force required to displace the upper portion  412  beyond the second deflection point D 2 ′ may initially decrease. A buckling or rapid deformation of an outer portion of the collar  408  (e.g., a portion of the collar  408  having the chamfer  410 ) may temporarily reduce the force required to displace the upper portion  412 . Subsequent to the buckling or rapid deformation of the collar  408  at the second deflection point D 2 ′, the force required to displace the upper portion  412  may gradually increase until a maximum displacement or bottom-out condition is reached. 
     The size, shape, and configuration of the collar  408  may define the contour of the second peak of the curve  504 . In the embodiment of  FIG. 5 , the chamfer  410  defined on the collar  408  may cause the curve  504  to have the second peak. The chamfer  410  may momentarily collapse, bend, bow, or otherwise change shape at the second deflection point D 2 ′, thereby causing the curve  504  to have the second peak. It will be appreciated that the physical properties of the chamfer  410  and/or other features of the collar  408  may be modified to define a contour of the curve  504 . This may allow the chamfer  410  and the collar  408  to be constructed so as to produce a desired tactile response. For example, the collar  408  and the chamfer  410  may be constructed such that the curve  504  includes a second peak, a deflection point that is different than the second deflection point D 2 ′, and/or is associated with a different displacement force than F 2 ′. 
     The dome switch  400  may provide various types of tactile feedback based on a configuration of the domed structure  404 , the collar  408 , and/or any other features of the dome switch  400 . In the embodiment of  FIG. 5 , a user may experience a first tactile response at or near the first peak of the curve  504 . The first tactile response may correspond to the initial reduction in force required to displace the upper portion  412  beyond the first deflection point D 1 ′. The first tactile response may indicate to a user the occurrence of a first switch event (e.g., such as when the protrusion  444  contacts a substrate disposed below the domed structure  404 ). 
     A user may also experience a second tactile response at or near the second peak of curve  504 . The second tactile response may correspond to the initial reduction in force required to displace the upper portion  412  beyond the second deflection point D 2 ′. The second tactile response may indicate to a user a second switch event (e.g., such as may be triggered when the upper portion  412  translates a specified distance). 
     The first and second tactile responses of the dome switch  400  (and any other tactile responses) may allow the dome switch  400  to control multiple functions of a computing device with a single switch. Each tactile response indicates to a user a particular switch event. Each switch event may correspond to a function executable by a computing device. As such, the various tactile responses of the dome switch  400  may provide an indication to the user of the execution of a particular function of the computing device. In some instances, the tactile response may include various vibrotactile effects, including clicking, popping, or the like to indicate a switch event. 
     It will be appreciated that the collars or reinforcement members discussed herein (e.g., collar  128 , collar  208 , collar  408 ) are described for purposes of illustration. Generally, the collar may be defined by various geometries, configurations, materials, and so on. In this regard, while several example collars and reinforcement members are discussed herein, other collars and reinforcement members are contemplated within the spirt of this disclosure, including collars and reinforcement members defined by different shapes and dispositions relative to a domed or deformable structure. For example, the collar or reinforcement member may resemble the shape of a ring, dome, cube, or any other appropriate shape, and may be symmetrical or asymmetrical in relation to the domed or deformable structure. 
       FIGS. 6A-6D  depict cross-sectional views of the keyboard assembly  108  of  FIG. 1A , taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1A , according to various configurations, and each is discussed in greater detail below. As described above, the keyboard assembly  108  may be manipulated into a variety of configurations that allow a user to control a computing device, for example, such as electronic device  104  (e.g., as depicted in  FIG. 1A ). For example, the key cap  132  may be depressed in order to trigger one or more switch events to control a computing device. 
       FIG. 6A  depicts the keyboard assembly  108  in configuration  600 . Configuration  600  may correspond to a neutral or undepressed state of the key cap  132 . In configuration  600 , the key cap  132  is shown at a position  602  along a Y axis. 
     The keyboard assembly  108  may include a variety of sensing elements configured to detect one or more switch events of the keyboard assembly  108 . For example, the keyboard assembly  108  may include a contact sensor  150 . The contact sensor  150  may be a component of a sensing structure that is configured to measure multiple parameters of the keyboard assembly  108 , including a range of deformations of the domed structure  124 . Additionally or alternatively, the contact sensor  150  may be disposed on, or be a component of, the substrate  136 . For example, the contact sensor  150  may be disposed on a base or base portion of the keyboard assembly  108 . The contact sensor  150  may be any appropriate electrically conductive element (e.g., including an indium tin oxide layer) that is configured to detect a contact between the domed structure  124  and the contact sensor  150 . 
     In one embodiment, the contact sensor  150  may be a sensing structure that includes a first electrode  152   a  and a second electrode  152   b . The first electrode  152   a  and the second electrode  152   b  may be electrically isolated. The contact sensor  150  may detect a switch event when another electrode contacts the first and the second electrodes  152   a ,  152   b  to form an electrical connection between the first and second electrodes  152   a ,  152   b.    
     The domed structure  124  may include the protrusion  125  that contacts the contact sensor  150  to trigger a switch event. The protrusion  125  may contact the first and second electrodes  152   a ,  152   b  upon the buckling of the domed structure  124  to trigger a switch event. In this manner, a surface of the protrusion  125  may be electrically conductive such that the protrusion  125  forms an electrical connection between the first and second electrodes  152   a ,  152   b  upon the buckling of the domed structure  124 . In response to the protrusion  125  forming an electrical connection between the first and second electrodes  152   a ,  152   b , the contact sensor  150  may generate an output to control a computing device. As one non-limiting example, the output may correspond to a function for typing a letter on a computing device. 
     The keyboard assembly  108  may also include sense layer  154  and drive layer  158 . The sense layer  154  and the drive layer  158  may collectively define an input or sensing structure that is configured to detect a translation and/or deformation of the domed structure  124  and/or the key cap  132 . For example, the sense layer  154  and the drive layer  158  may be a pair of capacitive electrodes. In some instances, the sense layer  154  and/or the drive layer  158  may include various capacitive-sensing elements. In this manner, a capacitance may be defined between the sense layer  154  and the drive layer  158 . The capacitance may vary with a distance separating the sense layer  154  and the drive layer  158 . Thus, as the key cap  132  is depressed, the sense layer  154  may measure a change in capacitance between the sense layer  154  and the drive layer  158 . The change in capacitance may therefore be correlated with, for example, translation of the key cap  132 . When the capacitance exceeds a threshold, the keyboard assembly  108  may initiate a switch event. Additionally or alternatively, the capacitance may be associated with a range of non-binary inputs, including associating a change in capacitance with a force received at the key cap  132 . 
     It will be appreciated that the position of the sense layer  154  and the drive layer  158  may be interchanged in certain embodiments. As one example, the sense layer  154  may be disposed on or within the key cap  132  and the drive layer  158  may be disposed on or within the collar  128 . The drive layer  158  may be an active or passive component of the input structure. In some cases, the drive layer  158  may be an active or passive shield for the sense layer  154  to enhance sensitivity of the input structure. Additionally or alternatively, the drive layer  158  may be a ground. The drive layer  158  may be a single or unitary component or may be one of an array of active or passive electrodes, analogous to the array of sensing elements  229  described with respect to  FIG. 2C . 
       FIG. 6B  depicts the keyboard assembly  108  in configuration  604 . Configuration  604  may correspond to a depressed state of the key cap  132  such as one configured to trigger a first switch event. In configuration  604 , the key cap  132  is shown at a position  606 . 
     At position  606 , the key cap  132  may be depressed such that the domed structure  124  buckles or collapses. For example, a wall of the domed structure  124  may fold over to accommodate the displacement of the domed structure  124  toward the contact sensor  150 . 
       FIG. 6C  depicts the keyboard assembly  108  in yet another configuration  608 . Configuration  608  may occur when the key cap  132  is fully depressed (e.g., at position  610 ). 
     At position  610 , the key cap  132  may be depressed beyond the position  606  (e.g., in the −Y direction). Notwithstanding that the protrusion  125  contacts the contact sensor  150  at position  606 , the key cap  132  may be depressed to position  610  because the domed structure  124  and protrusion  125  are deformable. That is, a force applied to the key cap  132  when in position  606  may cause the domed structure  124  and the protrusion  125  to deform such that the key cap is in position  610 . 
     In one embodiment, displacement of the key cap  132  to position  610  may trigger a second switch event. For example, the input structure defined by the sense layer  154  and the drive layer  158  may trigger a second switch event upon the detection of a predefined magnitude or amount of displacement of the key cap  132 . As depicted in  FIG. 6C , the second switch event may be detected upon the key cap  132  being displaced to position  610 . This may allow the keyboard assembly  108  to control multiple functions of a computing device with a single domed structure  124 . As a non-limiting illustration, moving the keycap  132  to position  606  may cause a user input signal to be generated that inputs a lower case letter into a computing device, while continued depression of the key cap  132  to position  610  may correspond to inputting a capital letter. 
     Further, as depicted in  FIG. 6C , the collar  128  may be a reinforcement member that reinforces the domed structure  124  as the key cap  132  moves downward. For example, the collar  128  may resist deformation of the domed structure  124  as the domed structure  124  is depressed by the key cap  132 , at least once the key cap  132  has moved far enough to buckle the domed structure  124  to the point that the dome wall impacts the collar  128 . To facilitate the foregoing, the collar  128  may physically obstruct continued deformation of the domed structure  124 . In one embodiment, the collar  128  may physically obstruct deformation of the domed structure  124  along a direction transverse to the motion associated with the depression of the key cap  132 . 
       FIG. 6D  depicts the keyboard assembly  108  in configuration  612 . Configuration  612  may correspond to a state in which the key cap  132  is asymmetrically depressed about a center of the domed structure  124 . In configuration  612 , the key cap  132  is shown at a second, tilted and/or partly depressed position along the Y axis. 
     It some instances, the sense layer  154  and/or the drive layer  158  may be position-sensing. For example, the sense layer  154  may detect a change in capacitance between portions of the sense layer  154  and/or the drive layer  158 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 6D , the sense layer  154  may detect a first change in capacitance between the sense layer  154  and the drive layer  158 . The sense layer  154  may also detect a second change in capacitance between the sense layer  154  and the drive layer  158  at a position B. As depicted in  FIG. 6D , the first capacitance may be less than the second capacitance, thereby indicating that a left side of the key cap  132  is lower than a right side of the key cap  132  (at position B). To facilitate the foregoing, the sense layer  154  may be an array of capacitive electrodes, such as the array of sensing elements  229  described in relation to  FIG. 2C . 
     The position-sensing capacitance sensing capability of the sense layer  154  and the drive layer  158  may therefore detect an orientation of the key cap  132 . For example, the key cap  132  may be depressed asymmetrically and/or at an angle with respect to a center of the domed structure  124 . As such, a portion or certain elements of the drive layer  158  may be closer to the sense layer  154  than another portion or elements of the drive layer  158 . For example, the drive layer  158  is depicted as being closer to the sense layer  154  on the left side of the key cap  132  than on its right side (as shown with reference to  FIG. 6D ). Accordingly, the sense layer  154  may measure the change in capacitance between the sense layer  154  and the drive layer  158  at both the positions A and B to determine an orientation of the key cap  132  (e.g., the orientation of the key cap  132  may be extrapolated based on the distance between the sense layer  154  and the drive layer  158  at both the positions A and B, for example, as detected based on the change in capacitance). 
     The keyboard assembly  108  may thus be used to control multiple separate functions of a computing device based on the orientation of the key cap  132 . For example, depressing a first side of the key cap  132  may control a first operation of a computing device. Similarly, depressing a second side of the key cap  132  may control a second operation of the computing device. This may enable the key cap  132 , in some implementations, to control motion in the same manner as a joystick, mouse track pad, or the like. Additionally or alternatively, the position-sensing capacitive sensing of the sense layer  154  and the drive layer  158  may be used in conjunction with the contact sensor  150  to control multiple functions of a computing device based on the orientation of the key cap  132  and/or the contact of the underside of the domed structure  124  with the contact sensor  150 . 
     To facilitate the reader&#39;s understanding of the various functionalities of the embodiments discussed herein, reference is now made to the flow diagram in  FIG. 7 , which illustrates process  700 . While specific steps (and orders of steps) of the methods presented herein have been illustrated and will be discussed, other methods (including more, fewer, or different steps than those illustrated) consistent with the teachings presented herein are also envisioned and encompassed with the present disclosure. 
     In this regard, with reference to  FIG. 7 , process  700  relates generally to operating a dome switch. The process  700  may be used in conjunction with the electronic device described herein (e.g., electronic device  104  described in relation to  FIG. 1A ). In particular, a processing unit of the electronic device may be configured to perform one or more of the example operations described below. 
     At operation  704 , a sensing element or sensing structure connected operatively to a domed or deformable structure may detect a contact between an inner portion of the domed or deformable structure and a base or base portion disposed below the domed structure. For example with reference to  FIG. 6A , the contact sensor  150  may detect a contact between an underside of the domed structure  124  and the contact sensor  150 . The contact sensor  150  may be disposed on the substrate  136 , which is positioned below the domed structure  124 . 
     At operation  708 , the sensing element or sensing structure may generate a first user input signal in response to the contact between the inner portion of the domed structure and the base or base portion of the domed structure. For example, and with reference to  FIG. 6A , the contact sensor  150  may generate an electrical response in response to the detecting of the contact between the underside of the domed structure  124  and the contact sensor  150 . The electrical response generated from the contact sensor  150  may be used to control a function of the computing device, such as the electronic device  104  depicted in  FIG. 1A . In some cases, the electronic device  104  may use the first user input signal to generate a first haptic effect corresponding to the detected contact. For example, the electronic device  104  may be configured to generate audio or tactile feedback to a user in response to the detected contact. 
     At operation  712 , the sensing element or sensing structure may detect a displacement of an outer portion of the domed structure. For example, and with reference to  FIGS. 2A-2C , the sensing element  228  may detect a displacement of the top portion  212  of the domed structure  204 . For example, the sensing element  228  may detect a change in a capacitance measured between the sensing element  228  and another electrode disposed on or near the domed structure  204 . The change in capacitance may be correlated with a translation of the upper portion  212 . 
     At operation  716 , the sensing element or sensing structure may generate a second user input signal in response to the detected displacement of the outer portion of the domed or deformable structure. For example, and with reference to  FIGS. 2A-2C , the sensing element  228  may generate an electrical response in response to the detecting of the change in capacitance. The electrical response generated from the sensing element  228  may be used to control another function of a computing device. In this manner, the dome switch may be used to control multiple functions of a computing device. In some cases, the electronic device  104  may use the second user input signal to generate a second haptic effect corresponding to the detected displacement. For example, the electronic device  104  may be configured to generate audio or tactile feedback to a user in response to the detected contact. 
     Other examples and implementations are within the scope and spirit of the disclosure and appended claims. For example, features implementing functions may also be physically located at various positions, including being distributed such that portions of functions are implemented at different physical locations. Also, as used herein, including in the claims, “or” as used in a list of items prefaced by “at least one of” indicates a disjunctive list such that, for example, a list of “at least one of A, B, or C” means A or B or C or AB or AC or BC or ABC (i.e., A and B and C). Further, the term “exemplary” does not mean that the described example is preferred or better than other examples. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, uses 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 targeted 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: 20160908
Publication Date: 20181009
Grant Date: 20181009
Priority Date: 20160908
Inventors: LEHMANN, Alex J.
SILZ, Kenneth M.
WANG, PAUL X.
XU, QILIANG
GAO, ZHENG
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H01H2215/006", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2217/96062", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/962", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/975", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/78", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2203/038", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2201/032", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2217/94073", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2221/054", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/48", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2215/004", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2221/054", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2215/004", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2203/038", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2201/032", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/48", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2217/94073", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2217/96062", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/975", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/962", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2215/006", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2217/96062", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/975", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/962", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2215/006", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/78", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 61281430