PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-10741342-B2
Application Number: US-201916266976-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Light-based switching for keyboard

Abstract:
This application relates to illuminated dome switches and a dome switch assembly having a first contact carried by a switch base and a dome shaped structure coupled to and supported by the switch base, the dome shaped structure comprising a material that is flexible and capable of internally transmitting visible light. The switch assembly can include a second contact coupled to the dome shaped structure and arranged opposite the first contact, and a light source configured to emit visible light, the light source in optical communication with the dome shaped structure such that at least some of the visible light emitted by the light source passes into the material and is subsequently emitted by the material in a generally uniform manner.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A dome switch assembly, comprising:
 a key cap; 
 a flexible dome coupled with the key cap, the flexible dome capable of collapsing in response to a force applied to the key cap; 
 a light source molded in a convex portion of the flexible dome, the light source configured to emit light; and 
 an optical component carried by a printed circuit board and covered by the flexible dome, the optical component configured to determine, based on detecting the light directly received from the light source:
 a first distance from the light source, the first distance corresponding to an uncompressed state of the flexible dome, and 
 a second distance from the light source, the second distance different from the first distance and corresponding to a compressed state of the flexible dome, 
 
 wherein the optical component is capable of generating a signal that indicates whether the flexible dome is in the compressed state or the uncompressed state. 
 
     
     
       2. The dome switch assembly of  claim 1 , wherein the second distance is less than the first distance. 
     
     
       3. The dome switch assembly of  claim 1 , wherein the light comprises infrared light. 
     
     
       4. The dome switch assembly of  claim 1 , wherein each of the first distance and the second distance is based on an amount of time for light from the light source to reach the optical component. 
     
     
       5. The dome switch assembly of  claim 1 , wherein the flexible dome is translucent such as to permit for light generated by the light source to be detected by the optical component. 
     
     
       6. The dome switch assembly of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 a controller that initiates a function associated with the key cap in response to the signal. 
 
     
     
       7. The dome switch assembly of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 a second light source embedded within the flexible dome; and 
 a second optical component covered by the flexible dome and configured to detect light emitted by the second light source to determine a partially compressed state of the flexible dome.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/447,070, entitled “ILLUMINATED SWITCHES AND INPUT BUTTONS,” filed Mar. 1, 2017, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,199,184 on Feb. 5, 2019, which claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/397,307, entitled “ILLUMINATED SWITCHES AND INPUT BUTTONS,” filed Sep. 20, 2016, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to illuminated buttons and input switches. More particularly, the embodiments relate to switches, input buttons, keyboards and the like for electronic devices and computing devices that have designated illumination. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Electronic devices incorporate a variety of electrical components that can each provide different functions. A user&#39;s experience with an electronic device is one aspect of the operation and desirability of the electronic device. Illuminated input buttons and switches can enhance a user&#39;s experience in low light environments. At the same time, aesthetic is an increasingly important aspect of the user experience. Input buttons, keys and keyboards have been illuminated in the past, but configurations for conventional illumination do not always provide homogenous illumination across the input button, a key and/or even across an entire keyboard in some instances. 
     SUMMARY 
     Some embodiments of the present invention can include a dome switch assembly having a first contact carried by a base and a dome shaped structure coupled to and supported by the base, the dome shaped structure comprising a material that is flexible and capable of internally transmitting visible light. The switch assembly can include a second contact coupled to the dome shaped structure and arranged opposite the first contact as well as a light source configured to emit visible light, the light source in optical communication with the dome shaped structure such that at least some of the visible light emitted by the light source passes into the material and is subsequently emitted by the material in a generally uniform manner. 
     Some embodiments can include an illuminated keyboard for a computing device where the illuminated keyboard has a keyboard base suitable for carrying multiple input keys, each input key having a key cap arranged to interact with a dome assembly. The dome assembly can have a translucent dome supported by the keyboard base, the translucent dome as well as a light source embedded with the translucent dome and configured to emit light into the translucent dome such that at least some of the light emitted by the light source is emitted by the translucent dome and illuminates the key cap. 
     Some embodiments can include a method for assembling an illuminated keyboard including arranging a flexible dome, capable of collapsing under an applied force and having light transmitting characteristics, such that a first contact coupled to the flexible dome is opposite a second contact and such that the first contact can touch the second contact when the flexible dome is collapsed under the applied force. The method can include electrically coupling the first contact and second contact to a processor such that when the contacts touch a circuit is completed and a signal is sent to the processor. The method can include arranging a light source to be in optical communication with the flexible dome, the light source configured to emit visible light into the flexible dome the flexible dome configured to internally transmit visible light emitted by the light source and subsequently emit the visible light. 
     Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the described embodiments. 
    
    
     
       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. 
         FIG. 1A  illustrates an exemplary computing device that can utilize illuminated switches in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 1B  illustrates a perspective view of an illuminating dome structure in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 1C  illustrates a top view of the illuminating dome structure of  FIG. 1B . 
         FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C  illustrate side views of illuminating dome structure configurations with light sources in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 3A  illustrates a diagram of a side cross section of the illuminating dome structure and a button plate arranged over the illuminating dome structure. 
         FIG. 3B  illustrates a diagram of the illuminating dome structure of  FIG. 3A  in a collapsed or compressed position. 
         FIG. 4A  illustrates a top view of an additional embodiment of an illuminating dome structure in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 4B  illustrates a top view of an additional embodiment of an illuminating dome structure in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 5A  illustrates a top view of a dome structure and an illuminating scissor mechanism in accordance with the various embodiments. 
         FIG. 5B  illustrates a diagram of a side view of the illuminating scissor mechanism of  FIG. 5A  illustrating a key cap arranged over the illuminating scissor mechanism. 
         FIG. 6A  is a top view of an example dome structure and scissor mechanism with light sources in accordance with embodiments of the invention. 
         FIG. 6B  is a cross-sectional side view of the example shown in  FIG. 6A  according to various embodiments. 
         FIG. 6C  is a cross-sectional side view of another example dome structure and scissor mechanism in accordance with the various embodiments. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a top view of a dome structure, scissor mechanism and illuminating diffusor in accordance with the various embodiments. 
         FIGS. 8A and 8B  illustrate side cross-sectional views of additional embodiments of an illuminating dome structure molded over light sources, thereby having embedded light sources in accordance with the various embodiments. 
         FIG. 9  is a side view of an illuminating dome structure having a conductive material formed over the dome structure in accordance with various embodiments. 
         FIG. 10A  is a cross-sectional side view of a dome structure including an optical sensor component according to aspects of the invention. 
         FIG. 10B  is a cross-sectional side view of the dome structure of  FIG. 10A  in a collapsed or compressed or depressed state in accordance with various embodiments. 
         FIG. 11A  is a cross-sectional side view of a dome structure having optical sensor components in various locations in accordance with aspects of the invention. 
         FIGS. 11B and 11C  are cross-sectional side views of the dome structure of  FIG. 11A  in various collapsed, compressed, or depressed states according to the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 12A  is an isometric view of an illuminated dome and key structure according to aspects of the invention. 
         FIG. 12B  is a cross-sectional side view of the dome and key structure of  FIG. 12A . 
         FIG. 13A  is a diagram of a top view of an illuminated input array. 
         FIG. 13B  is a diagram of a top view of an illuminated input array that is partitioned in accordance with the various embodiments. 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a block diagram of a computing device that can include illuminating switches of the describe embodiments. 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a block diagram of a method for assembling illuminating switches in accordance with the described embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting, such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
     Many electronic devices have been designed to be more compact while also increasing functionality of the computing devices. Computing devices have also been designed to provide an improved user experience. Illumination can be provided to input buttons such as keys of a keyboard, on/off buttons, volume buttons and other types of input buttons. Exemplary electronic devices using input buttons in accordance with the described embodiments can include, but are not limited to, televisions, remote controls, laptop computers, desktop computers, portable audio players, smartphones, cellular phones, tablets, and wearable electronic devices, just to name a few. Input buttons of the described embodiments can have light transmitting indicia formed into the button such as letters for keys on a keyboard, which allows light to be emitted from the indicia so the operation of the button is readily ascertainable. In some embodiments, input buttons can be illuminated to emit light from around a perimeter of the input button. Embodiments of input buttons can include a switch configured to provide a signal to a processor when the switch is operated. Some switches can include flexible dome arranged under the input button surface, such as on a key cap of a keyboard, interacted with by a user. When the user interacts with the button (e.g., collapses, compresses, or depresses the button), the flexible dome structure made of a flexible material can collapse, allowing contacts within the switch to touch to complete an electrical circuit, or trigger optical sensor components that can generate a signal to be sent to a processor or other computing circuitry for operation of an electronic device. 
     In conventional illuminated input buttons and in circumstances where multiple buttons are arranged in a pattern on the computing device, such as keys of a keyboard, different configurations for illuminating all the keys have been used. In some conventional illuminated keyboards, a masked light-transmitting panel of material is arranged under an array of keys and light sources arranged at the perimeter of the keyboard project the light through the light-transmitting panel. The mask of the light-transmitting panel has apertures arranged to coordinate with the key locations, allowing light to escape through the apertures to illuminate each key. Even distribution of the light across the entire keyboard can be difficult to achieve, however, since some loss of light occurs through the light-transmitting panel. Alternatively, in some conventional devices, a single light sources can been arranged at each key to directly illuminate the key cap. In this circumstance, light leakage to adjacent keys can be hard to control and uneven distribution of light across the key itself can occur. 
     Embodiments of the present invention can include switches for use with input buttons, where each switch can be configured to provide illumination to the input button. Embodiments of switches can include dome switches that have a light source, such as an LED, arranged to emit light into the material of the dome structure of the switch to illuminate a button or key cap arranged over the switch. In some embodiments, the dome of a dome switch can be made of material having light transmitting properties and can be translucent. The light source can be arranged to project the visible light into the flexible dome material and subsequently be emitted out of the dome material in a generally uniform manner to illuminate the input button. In some embodiments, such as for keys of a keyboard, a key path control mechanism, such as a scissor mechanism, used in cooperation with the dome structure to control a key cap travel, can be made of a light transmitting material. A light source can be arranged to project visible light into the scissor mechanism and the scissor mechanism can subsequently emit the received visible light to illuminate the key cap. In some embodiments, both the dome structure and the scissor mechanism can receive and emit the visible light and, in some embodiments, the emitted light can be received from one or more light sources. In some embodiments, the light source, or light sources, can be embedded in the light transmitting material, such as within the dome structure or scissor mechanism. In some embodiments, a diffusor plate made of a light transmitting material can receive and internally transmit visible light, subsequently emitting the visible light to illuminate the input button or key. 
     More specifically, some embodiments can include a dome switch assembly having a first contact carried by a switch base and a dome shaped structure coupled to and supported by the switch base, the dome shaped structure comprising a material that is flexible and capable of internally transmitting visible light. The switch assembly can include a second contact coupled to the dome shaped structure and arranged opposite the first contact as well as a light source configured to emit visible light, the light source in optical communication with the dome shaped structure such that at least some of the visible light emitted by the light source passes into the material and is subsequently emitted by the material in a generally uniform manner. 
     In some embodiments, the light source is arranged at a base of the dome shaped structure and electrically coupled to a lead configured to at least transmit power to the light source. Some embodiments can include a key cap having an input surface and arranged over the dome shaped structure, wherein the light emitted by the dome shaped structure illuminates the key cap. In some embodiments, the key cap is configured to transmit at least some of the visible light emitted by the dome shaped structure to the input surface. In some embodiments, the key cap includes a masking that forms indicia at the input surface, the masking configured to block the light transmitted to the input surface and the indicia configured to emit the visible light transmitted through the key cap at the indicia. In some embodiments, the dome shaped structure comprises light guiding features to control where visible light is emitted from the dome shaped structure. In some embodiments, the dome shaped structure comprises masking at a portion of the dome shaped structure to prevent visible light from emitting from the portion of the dome shaped structure. In some embodiments, the dome shaped structure is made of a translucent rubber material. In some embodiments, the light source is embedded within the material of the dome shaped structure. In some embodiments, the light source is an LED. Some embodiments can include multiple light sources. 
     Some embodiments can include an illuminated keyboard for a computing device, where the illuminated keyboard has a keyboard base suitable for carrying multiple input keys, with each input key having a key cap configured to receive an input force from a user that interact with a dome switch assembly. The dome switch assembly can have a translucent dome supported by the keyboard base, the translucent dome configured to internally transmit visible light and emit the transmitted visible light. The dome switch assembly can also have a light source in optical communication with the translucent dome and configured to emit visible light into the translucent dome such that the translucent dome subsequently emits at least some of the visible light emitted by the light source in a generally uniform manner to illuminate the key cap. 
     In some embodiments, the key cap comprises masking defining indicia, the indicia configured to transmit the emitted light from the translucent dome and masking configured to block transmission of the emitted light from the translucent dome. In some embodiments, each dome switch assembly comprises a switch housing having walls that surround the translucent dome and the light source is arranged in one of the walls. In some embodiments, the dome switch assembly further comprises a scissor mechanism coupled to the housing and the key cap that causes the key cap to travel along a controlled path when receiving an input force from a user. In some embodiments, the translucent dome comprises light guiding features to control the locations on the translucent dome where visible light is emitted from the translucent dome. 
     Some embodiments can include a method for assembling an illuminated keyboard including arranging a flexible dome capable of collapsing under an applied force and having light transmitting characteristics, such that a first contact coupled to the flexible dome is opposite a second contact and such that the first contact can touch the second contact when the flexible dome is collapsed under the applied force. The method can include electrically coupling the first contact and second contact to a processor such that when the contacts touch a circuit is completed and a signal is sent to the processor. The method can include arranging a light source to be in optical communication with the flexible dome, the light source configured to emit visible light into the flexible dome, and the flexible dome configured to internally transmit visible light emitted by the light source and subsequently emit the visible light. 
     Some embodiments can include arranging a key cap scissor mechanism around the flexible dome. Some embodiments can include coupling a key cap to the flexible dome and to the scissor mechanism. In some embodiments, the flexible dome comprises a translucent rubber material. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1A-15 ; 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. 1A  illustrates a perspective view of one type of computing device  100  that can include a button  104 , in this case a key cap, that is arranged to receive input from a user of the computing device  100 . The computing device  100  can be any computing device not limited to a cellular phone, laptop computer, tablet computer, television, desktop computer, media player, remote control, watch, or any other device suitable for incorporating a switch. As shown here, the computing device  100  is a laptop computer and the input button  104  is a key of a keyboard  106  arranged in a laptop base  102 . The input button  104  can include and utilize switches and input buttons of the described embodiments herein. Switches of the described embodiments can include illuminated dome structures. The illuminated dome structures may include switches where an electrical contact is carried by a flexible dome and the dome can be arranged over a second contact where, when the dome is compressed, the first and second contacts come into contact with each other and complete an electrical circuit that allows a signal to be provided to a processor for operation of the electronic device in which the switch is utilized (e.g., activating an input associated with a key coupled to the switch). Alternatively or additionally, the illuminated dome structures and/or switches may include optical components embedded therein such that, when the dome is compressed, the optical components detect changes and send signals to a processor for operation of the electronic device in accordance with designated operation of the switch (e.g., activating an input associated with a key coupled to the switch). In the described embodiments, the dome structure can be formed of a polymer that has light transmitting properties such that visible light emitted into the flexible dome structure material can be internally transmitted through the flexible dome structure. 
       FIG. 1B  illustrates a perspective view of a mechanism associated with an input button  104  in accordance with the various embodiments. The input button  104  may include a flexible dome  110 . Flexible dome  110  can be coupled to a base  108 . A light source  112  can be arranged in optical communication with flexible dome  110  such that light emitted by the light source  112  can be emitted into the flexible dome  110  and transmitted internally. Light source  112  can be an LED or micro-LED among other suitable sources for providing visible light to the flexible dome  110 . The light source  112  can include an arrangement of multiple LEDs, multiple micro-LEDs, quantum dots, and may be configured to emit various wavelengths of light, including but not limited to white light, RGB color light, infrared (IR) light, ultra-violet (UV) light, etc. 
       FIG. 1C  illustrates a diagram of a top view of an input button  104  including a flexible dome  110 . As shown here, light source  112  is arranged at an exterior portion of flexible dome  110  such that it can emit visible light into flexible dome  110 . Light source  112  can be electrically and/or mechanically coupled to base  108 , described in greater detail below. 
       FIG. 2A  is a diagram of a side view of an input button switch configuration  200 . The configuration  200  includes a flexible dome structure  206 , end portions  210  (e.g. a scissor mechanism), a key base  212  and a bottom plate  218 . The flexible dome structure  206  includes a base foot  208 , a cone portion  228 , and a top portion  232 . The bottom plate  218  and the key base  212  are separated by a gap which is used as a light guide to guide light  220  emitted from a light source  216  under the dome structure  206 . The light guide  214  may also include light guiding features  222  to direct light to desired locations. The key base  212  may include a window  226  formed therein such that light  230  can be emitted from the light guide  214  and provide illumination of the configuration  200 . 
     The configuration  200  of  FIG. 2A  has several drawbacks. The light guide  214  is typically configured to illuminate multiple input buttons along the path of the light guide, which causes light loss and degrades uniformity (e.g., some input buttons may have a different brightness than others). Further, it is difficult to uniformly illuminate wider or longer input buttons. Configurations such as  200  also do not have the ability to independently tune brightness, color, or other lighting properties. Thus, disclosed herein are improved switch configurations that achieve improved uniform lighting and independent tunable properties among other benefits as are described throughout. 
       FIGS. 2B and 2C  are diagrams of side views of illuminated dome switch configurations. Configuration  202  includes a flexible dome structure  240  having a top portion, a cone portion  248  and a foot base  242 . The configuration also has a switch base  244  and ends  246 . A light source  250  (e.g., an LED) that is positioned at the foot base  242  of the flexible dome structure  240 . The flexible dome structure  240  may be constructed of a light emitting material. The light source  250  may be configured to emit light  252  throughout the flexible dome structure  240 . The light  252  may be transmitted, reflected and guided by light guiding features  256  formed within the flexible dome structure  240 . The light  252  may be emitted from the top of the flexible dome structure  240  such that the emitted light  254  may illuminate an input key (not shown) coupled to the flexible dome structure  240 . 
       FIG. 2C  shows a similar configuration  204  to configuration  202 , including a flexible dome structure  260  with a coned portion  268  and a foot base  262 , a base  264 , ends  266  and a light source  270  configured to emit light  274  throughout the dome structure  260 , where the light can be guided by light guide features  278  and emitted from the dome (e.g., emitted light  276 ). The light source  270  in configuration  204  is formed in such a way that light source  270  can be at least partially contained (e.g., with a portion exterior to the dome structure  260 ) within the flexible dome structure  260 . In this way, foot base  262  can include lip  272  that is a raised portion that is positioned over the light source  270 . 
       FIG. 3A  illustrates a diagram of a portion  300  of an input button  304  in accordance with the described embodiments of the present invention. A button plate  314 , not shown in  FIGS. 2B-2C , is shown in this view for clarity. As illustrated in  FIG. 3A , the input button  304  can include a base  308  that carries a first contact (e.g., a base contact)  324 . A flexible dome  310  can be connected to the base  308 . A housing  342  can surround flexible dome  310 . Here, flexible dome  310  is shown coupled to base  308  by way of foot  320 . Flexible dome  310  can be made of a polymer material and have an internal volume  360  such that when a certain amount pressure is applied, the flexible dome  310  can yield and change shape and thus collapse. A second contact (e.g. a dome contact)  326  can be connected to the flexible dome  310 . A button plate  314  can be coupled to the flexible dome  310  at an outer portion of flexible dome  310 . As shown in  FIG. 3A , in the rest position, the first contact  324  and the second contact  326  can be separated. The separation of the contacts  324  and  326  can be in part due to an amount of potential energy associated with the flexible dome  310 . In this way, a weight of the button plate  314  can be arranged to not overcome the potential energy of the flexible dome  310  without some external force. 
       FIG. 3B  illustrates a diagram of a portion  302  of the input button  304  being acted on by a force  330  and in a collapsed state. The input button  304  can be arranged such that the force  330  can be enough to overcome the potential energy associated with the flexible dome  310 . Put alternatively, the force  330  is sufficient to cause the walls of the dome  310  to buckle and push outward, thereby collapsing. As a result, the first contact  324  and the second contact  326  touch each other and complete an electrical circuit configured to provide a signal path to a processor. 
     As seen in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , a light source  312  is coupled to base  308  via foot  320 . In some embodiments, light source  312  can be coupled directly to base  308 . Light source  312  is arranged such that it is in optical communication with flexible dome  310 . Flexible dome  310  is formed of a material that is internally light transmitting, which means the material can receive visible light from a source (e.g., light source  312 ) and transmit and guide the emitted visible light throughout the flexible dome  310 . In some embodiments, the material of flexible dome  310  can be a polymer material such as rubber or silicone. Flexible dome  310  can be formed of materials that allow at least some of the visible light that is transmitted and guided through the flexible dome  310  to be emitted from flexible dome  310  (e.g., emitted light  340 ). As such, flexible dome  310  can be translucent. As illustrated in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , light source  312  is arranged adjacent flexible dome  310 . Internal visible light  332 , emitted from light source  312 , can be seen internally reflected and guided within flexible dome  310  (e.g., via light guide components). In addition, light  340  (visible or otherwise) can be emitted from flexible dome  310 . Since button plate  314  is arranged at and coupled to flexible dome  310 , emitted visible light  340  is emitted toward button plate  314 . Button plate  314  can be any surface, button or cap, such as a key cap, capable of receiving input from a user and transmitting an applied force from the user to the flexible dome  310  to cause flexible dome  310  to collapse. 
     Also, button plate  314  can be configured to be illuminated or receive and transmit emitted light. In this way, button plate  314  can be made of light conveying material and can be transparent or translucent. Button plate can have masking  316  that is configured to block transmission of visible light. The masking  316  can be formed in a manner that defines indicia  318  such that the emitted visible light  340  is emitted at indicia  318 , and otherwise blocked by masking  316 . In some embodiments, such as for a key cap for a keyboard, for example, indicia  318  can include letters, symbol, glyphs and the like. To control areas where emitted visible light  340  can be emitted from flexible dome  310 , flexible dome  310  can have light guiding features  328  which can guide and/or refract light and prevent emission in a particular region. This can provide selective guidance and illumination of particular areas of the button plate  314  or otherwise provide for tuning of the illumination of the switch and/or input button  304 . In some embodiments, the light guiding features can have light refractive properties. 
       FIG. 4A  illustrates a top view of an alternative embodiment of flexible dome  400  and light source  416 . As shown, the flexible dome  400  includes a top surface  414 , a coned portion  412 , and a base potion  410  affixed to a base plate. Here, multiple light sources  416  are shown surrounding flexible dome  400  and can each emit visible light into flexible dome  400 . Having multiple light sources  416  can allow for further tuning of the light emitted by flexible dome  400 . For example, light sources  416  can be programmed to fire simultaneously, in a sequential pattern for providing dynamic illumination, or in tuned zoned illumination where particular light sources  416  are fired for particular operations, functions or input button configurations. As shown, the light sources  416  are dispersed at about every 90 degrees, although alternative dispersion frequencies may be utilized. The light sources  416  may be positioned outside of the base portion  410  of the dome  400  or, optionally, as shown by circle  418 , positioned partially outside of the base portion  410  and partially inside of the base portion  410 . 
       FIG. 4B  illustrates yet another top view of an alternative embodiment of flexible dome  402  and light sources  416 . As seen here, multiple light sources  416  can be arranged under flexible dome  402  and/or embedded within flexible dome  402  (e.g., within the base portion  410 , although the light sources  416  may be positioned on the interior of the dome  402  further inside from the base portion  410 ). This configuration can save lateral spacing in that the light sources  416  are not arranged adjacent the flexible dome  402 . In some embodiments, flexible dome material can be over molded over light sources  416  (or in some embodiments a single light source  416 ) and leads, or an exposed contact surface of the light sources  416 , can be provided for electrically connecting light sources  416  to a controller of an electronic device for powering and controlling firing of the light sources  416 . It should be noted that the various light source configurations described herein could be used exclusively and/or in combination with one another, depending on the design constraints of the system and the desired illumination for the input button(s). 
       FIG. 5A  illustrates a top view diagram of an alternative embodiment for illumination of a key assembly  500  for use with a keyboard, for example.  FIG. 5B  illustrates a diagram of a side view  502  of key assembly  500 . Flexible dome  504  is shown centrally located and surrounded by a key travel control mechanism such as a scissor mechanism made of a first scissor component  534  and second scissor component  536 . A key cap  514 , not shown in  FIG. 3A , is shown in  FIG. 5B  for clarity. Scissor mechanism (e.g., made up of scissor component  534  and scissor component  536 ) allows for a controlled travel of key cap  514  when a force  530  is applied to a surface of key cap  514  capable of receiving an input force, preventing key cap  514  from depressing unevenly. Scissor mechanism including first scissor component  534  and second scissor component  536  can be coupled to a housing  542  and key cap  514 . While a scissor mechanism is shown here, alternative mechanisms for key travel control, such as a butterfly style mechanism and the like can be used. In  FIG. 5B , a flexible dome is not illustrated for clarity. As can be seen, light source  512  can be arranged adjacent to and in optical communication with first scissor component  534  and/or second scissor component  536 . First scissor component  534  and second scissor component  536  can be made of light transmitting materials having the ability to receive emitted light from the light source  512  and transmit and guide the visible light  532  throughout the first scissor component  534  and/or second scissor component  536 . In a similar manner as previously described with regard to the flexible dome, the transmitted visible light  532  can be emitted by the first scissor component  534  and/or second scissor component  536  to illuminate key cap  514  with emitted visible light  540 . As shown, light source  512  can alternatively or additionally be arranged on and/or embedded in the scissor mechanism. In some embodiments, light source can be arranged in housing  542 . In some embodiments, light source  512  can be arranged external to housing  542 . 
       FIGS. 6A and 6B  illustrate another example key assembly by top view  600  and cross-sectional side view  650 . The key assembly may include a flexible dome structure  602 , and a scissor mechanism including a first scissor mechanism  610  and second scissor mechanism  612 . The second scissor mechanism  612  may include an opening  614  through which the flexible dome structure  602  protrudes. The flexible dome structure  602  may include a top surface  608 , a coned portion  606  and a base portion  604  that is affixed to a base. Beneath or within the scissor mechanism (e.g., first scissor component  610  and second scissor component  612 ) may be positioned light sources  616 ,  618 ,  620 ,  622 . 
     As shown in cross-sectional view, the light source  618  may be positioned within one side of scissor component  612  and light source  622  may be positioned in another side of scissor component  612 . Correspondingly, light source  620  may be positioned in one side of scissor component  610  and light source  616  may be positioned in another side of scissor component  610 . Each of the scissor components  610 ,  612  may be constructed of a material capable of receiving light emitted from light sources and transmitting the received light, as is shown by light  662  through scissor component  612  and light  664  through scissor component  610 . Each scissor component  610 ,  612  may include light guiding features  668  disposed on or within the components  610  and  612 . 
     The scissor components  610  and  612  may be configured to transmit the light emitted from light sources  616 ,  618 ,  620 , and  622 , toward the key plate  654 , as is shown by transmitted light  670  and  672 . The key plate  654  may be positioned on top of the top surface  608  of the flexible dome structure  602 . The key plate  654  may be constructed of a material such that it can transmit light received (e.g., the key plate  654  may be translucent). As shown in  FIG. 6B , the key plate  654  receives the light  670  and  672  emitted from the scissor mechanism and transmits the light outward (e.g., light  674 ). Although not shown, the key plate  654  may also include light guiding features. A masking  656  may be disposed on the key plate  654  such that openings in the masking  656  form indicia  660  through which light  676  is transmitted. The key assembly may also include a protective surface  658  positioned or disposed over the key plate  654  and masking  656 . 
     In an alternative embodiment  680  shown in  FIG. 6C , the base plate  652  of the key assembly includes multiple light sources  682  positioned thereon. The light sources  682  may be configured to emit light  684  in similar fashion to the light sources in  FIGS. 6A and 6B , but positioned in a different location. In such embodiments, the scissor components  610  and  612  may be translucent such that the light  684  emitted from the light sources  682  may pass through the scissor mechanism to the key plate  654 . Although separate configurations are shown in  FIGS. 6B and 6C , it will be appreciated that both configurations may be utilized together and/or combinations of the configurations may also be utilized. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates top view diagram of an alternative embodiment for illumination of a key assembly  700  for use with a keyboard. Like in  FIG. 6A , flexible dome  602  is shown surrounded by a scissor mechanism made up of first scissor component  610  and second scissor component  612 . In this embodiment, diffusor plates  716  having light transmitting characteristics, like the flexible dome and scissor plates of previous embodiments, can transmit light received from light source  712  and  714  through diffusor plates  716 , which can then be emitted to illuminate a key cap or button plate (not shown). It is important to note that each of the flexible dome, scissor mechanism and diffusor plate can be used alone or in combination with each other as the system design and considerations dictate, and while described separately, nothing precludes their combination. 
       FIGS. 8A and 8B  illustrate alternative embodiments 800 and 802 of a flexible dome  810  where the light source is embedded and suspended in flexible dome  810  material. Similar to other flexible domes disclosed herein, the flexible dome  810  includes a top portion  812 , a coned portion  814 , a foot base  816  affixed to a base  820  (e.g., a printed circuit board, etc.), and an interior convex portion  818 . In  FIG. 8A , a light source  822  is shown embedded in the foot base  816  of the flexible dome  810 . In  FIG. 8B , a light source  824  is shown embedded in the top portion  812  of the flexible dome  810 . In this way, the light sources  822 ,  824  can be over molded with the material of the flexible dome  810  and protected from an exterior environment. 
     Light sources  822 ,  824  can be electrically coupled with leads or a conductive coating on or within flexible dome  110  for connecting light source  112  to a power and/or control source of an electronic device. For example, as shown in the configuration  900  of  FIG. 9 , the flexible dome  902  may include a light source  906  positioned on the base  904  at the interior of the flexible dome  902  (e.g., the light source  906  can be over molded with the dome material). The dome  902  may include a conductive material layer  908  disposed over the dome  902  with a lead  910  partially protruding from the material  908 . The material layer  908  may be, for example, printed circuits, conductive material, traces, etc. The base  904  may be constructed of a printed circuit board and a receiving pad  912  may be positioned at the base  904  such that an electrical connection is established between the light source  906 , layer  908 , lead  910 , base  904 , and pad  912 . 
     In additional examples, the light source can be coupled with a sensor, such as photocell (not shown) and a travel distance of light source can be detected when the flexible dome is compressed, thus providing information related to activation of the switch. These examples are shown in the configurations of  FIGS. 10A and 10B . In  FIGS. 10A and 10B , the key assembly may include a flexible dome  1010  (with top portion  1012 , coned portion  1014 , base foot  1016  and interior convex portion  1024 ), along with a key cap  1022  and an optional light source  1020  over molded in the base foot  1016  (and/or positioned in other manners as is disclosed herein). The base  1018  of the key assembly may include an optical component (e.g., a detector, photo-resistor, etc.). Molded in the interior convex portion  1024  may be positioned a light source  1026 . The light source  1026  may be configured to emit IR light toward the optical component  1028 . 
     In an uncompressed state  1000 , the light source  1026  emits IR light  1030  that is detected by the optical component  1028  to be at a certain distance corresponding to a distance associated with the key being uncompressed. In a compressed state  1002  (e.g., when a force  1032  acting on the key cap  1022  causes the dome  1010  to collapse), the light source  1026  emits IR light  1030  that is detected by the optical component  1028  to be at a certain distance corresponding to a distance associated with the key being compressed. Thus, when the optical component  1028  detects the light from the light source  1026  to travel a distance associated with the compressed state  1002 , the optical component  1028  may generate a signal or output to a controller or processor of the system indicating that the key has been activated, such that the controller or processor initiates the function associated with the activated key (e.g., inputting the corresponding data). Put alternatively, a light source  1026  may be over molded or otherwise positioned within (partially or fully) the flexible dome  1010  such that an optical switch may be constructed. In this way, the first and second contacts of the input button, described in previous embodiments could be eliminated. 
     Additional examples of light sources configured as optical switches are shown in  FIGS. 11A-11C . The key assembly is shown in an uncompressed state  1100 , a compressed state  1102 , and a partially compressed state  1104 . The key assembly includes a flexible dome  1110  (with a top portion  1112 , a coned portion  1114  and a base foot  1116 ), a key cap  1136 , a light source  1120 , and a key base  1118  with optical sensors/components  1126  and  1128  positioned therein. It will be recognized that although the embodiments depict the optical components positioned within the key bases, the components may be placed in other suitable positions in order to effectuate an optical switch. 
     The key assembly includes at least two light sources  1122  and  1124 , which may be configured to emit light  1130  and  1132  (e.g. IR light or other detectable light) to be detected by the optical components  1126  and  1128  respectively. Each detector may be configured to determine a distance corresponding to a compressed state and an uncompressed state. For example, at state  1100 , the detectors  1126  and  1128  may be configured to detect light from the light sources  1122  and  1124  to be at a distance associated with an uncompressed state. At state  1102 , the detectors  1126  and  1128  may detect the light to be at a distance associated with a compressed state. At state  1104 , however, when the key cap  1136  is acted upon by a force  1150 , the key cap transitions to a compressed state. Thus, the distance measured by detector  1126  may indicate the compressed state while the distance measured by the detector  1128  may indicate an uncompressed state. A system associated with key assemblies such as those depicted in  FIGS. 11A and 11C  may be configured to output particular signals or cause certain functions when a partially compressed state is detected. For example, the system may treat the key as compressed, may treat the key as uncompressed, may prompt the user via an application that the key was not fully compressed, may cause a particular illumination of the key from a light source, etc. 
       FIGS. 12A and 12B  are views of a key arrangement where a larger part of the key includes the material of the flexible dome. The key arrangement is shown in an isometric view  1200  and a cross-sectional side view  1202 . The key arrangement includes end caps  1212  and a molded structure  1210  between the end caps  1212 . A flexible dome  1214  may be positioned at about the center of the molded structure  1210  and may be formed as part of the molded structure  1210 . A light source  1216  is disposed within the molded structure  1210  (or alternatively, molded over by the molded structure  1210  during formation of the molded structure  1210 ). The key assembly also includes a base  1218  and protrusions  1222  extending from the bottom of the molded structure  1210  to the top of the base  1218  such that the protrusions  1222  are positioned within a gap  1220  between the base  1218  and the molded structure  1210 . The molded structure  1210  may be constructed of a translucent material or other light transmitting material to facilitate transmission of light from the light source  1216  throughout the molded structure  1210 . For example, the molded structure  1210  may be formed of a clear or partially clear rubber material that may also seal the key assembly from outside sources such as water. 
     The protrusions  1222  may elevate the molded structure  1210  from the base  1218  such that the flexible dome  1214  is separated from an electronic trigger or switch  1224  disposed beneath the flexible dome  1214 . A key cap (not shown) may be positioned or placed above the flexible dome  1214  such that, when a force is applied to the key cap, the flexible dome  1214  may collapse, making contact with the trigger  1224 , thereby completing or activating a switch for the key arrangement. An optical switch, such as those described above, may be utilized with the molded structure  1210  in place of or in addition to the switch  1224 . 
       FIG. 13A  shows a key configuration  1300  similar to that used with the configuration shown in  FIG. 2A . The key configuration  1300  includes an array  1314  of keys  1316  arranged in line with light sources  1310 . Each line in the array  1314  of keys  1316  may have associated with it one light source from the light sources  1310 . Each light source projects light  1312  for illumination of the keys  1316 . As described above, such an arrangement  1300  may result in light loss due to the light guides beneath the array  1314  and/or loss of uniformity due to each light source having to light a substantial number of keys in the array  1314 . Also, such configurations may not permit tunable light solutions. 
       FIG. 13B , the configuration  1302  shows a partitioned array, where the array is partitioned into sections  1330 A,  1330 B,  1330 C and  1330 D. Light sources  1320  and  1322  may be utilized and may be, for example, micro-LEDs as opposed to larger sized LEDs used to illuminate a substantial number of keys. Light sources  1320  may produce light  1324  and light sources  1322  may produce light  1326 . Since each light source is responsible for the illumination of fewer keys, more uniform light distribution can be achieved and better tuning may be utilized (e.g., lighting different partitions to different luminosity or colors). 
       FIG. 14  is a block diagram of a computing device  1400  that can use the switches of the disclosed embodiments. It will be appreciated that the components, devices or elements illustrated in and described with respect to  FIG. 14  may not be mandatory and thus some may be omitted in certain embodiments. The computing device  1400  can include a processor  1402  that represents a microprocessor, a coprocessor, circuitry and/or a controller for controlling the overall operation of the computing device  1400 . Although illustrated as a single processor, it can be appreciated that the processor  1402  can include a plurality of processors. The plurality of processors can be in operative communication with each other and can be collectively configured to perform one or more functionalities of the computing device  1400  as described herein. In some embodiments, the processor  1402  can be configured to execute instructions that can be stored at the computing device  1400  and/or that can be otherwise accessible to the processor  1402 . As such, whether configured by hardware or by a combination of hardware and software, the processor  1402  can be capable of performing operations and actions in accordance with embodiments described herein. 
     The computing device  1400  can also include a user input device  1404  that allows a user of the computing device  1400  to interact with the computing device  1400 . For example, the user input device  1404  can take a variety of forms, such as a button, keypad, dial, touch screen, audio input interface, visual/image capture input interface, input in the form of sensor data, etc. Such user input can utilize the switches of the described embodiments herein. Still further, the computing device  1400  can include a display  1408  (screen display) that can be controlled by the processor  1402  to display information to a user. A controller  1410  can be used to interface with and control different equipment through an equipment control bus  1412 . The computing device  1400  can also include a network/bus interface  1414  that couples to a data link  1416 . The data link  1416  can allow the computing device  1400  to couple to a host computer or to accessory devices. The data link  1416  can be provided over a wired connection or a wireless connection. In the case of a wireless connection, network/bus interface  1414  can include a wireless transceiver. 
     The computing device  1400  can also include a storage device  1418 , and a storage management module that manages one or more partitions (also referred to herein as “logical volumes”) within the storage device  1418 . In some embodiments, the storage device  1418  can include flash memory, semiconductor (solid state) memory or the like. Still further, the computing device  1400  can include Read-Only Memory (ROM)  1420  and Random Access Memory (RAM)  1422 . The ROM  1420  can store programs, code, instructions, utilities or processes to be executed in a non-volatile manner. The RAM  1422  can provide volatile data storage, and store instructions related to components of the storage management module that are configured to carry out the various techniques described herein. The computing device  1400  can further include data bus  1424 . The data bus  1424  can facilitate data and signal transfer between at least the processor  1402 , the controller  1410 , the network/bus interface  1414 , the storage device  1418 , the ROM  1420 , and the RAM  1422 . The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. 
       FIG. 15  illustrates a block diagram of a method  1500  for assembling switches of the described embodiments. In a step  1502 , a flexible dome capable of collapsing under an applied force and having light transmitting characteristic can be arranged as part of a switch configuration. For example, the flexible dome may be arranged such that a first contact coupled to the flexible dome is opposite a second contact and such that the first contact can touch the second contact when the flexible dome is collapsed under the applied force. In a step  1504 , the switch configuration (e.g., the first contact and second contact) can be electrically coupled to a processor such that when the contacts touch a circuit is completed and a signal is sent to the processor. In a step  1506 , a light source can be arranged to be in optical communication with the flexible dome, the light source configured to emit visible light into the flexible dome, the flexible dome configured to internally transmit visible light emitted by the light source and subsequently emit the visible light. The light source may be over molded by the flexible dome and/or by the material from which the flexible dome is formed. In a step  1508 , a key cap scissor mechanism (e.g., a key travel control mechanism) can be arranged around the flexible dome. The key travel control mechanism may control vertical or other displacement of the key when acted upon by outside forces. In a step  1510 , a key cap can be coupled to the flexible dome and to the scissor mechanism. 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling manufacturing operations or as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a manufacturing line. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data, which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion. 
     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 specific embodiments are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the described 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: 20190204
Publication Date: 20200811
Grant Date: 20200811
Priority Date: 20160920
Inventors: WANG, PAUL X.
XU, QILIANG
ZIMMERMAN, AIDAN N.
WU, CHIA CHI
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/044", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/062", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/06", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/968", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/028", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/023", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/88", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/062", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/056", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/06", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/028", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/10", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2221/07", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/056", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/14", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/044", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/056", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/062", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/06", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/044", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/88", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/10", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/023", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2221/07", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/968", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/14", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/028", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 61621261