PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9842711-B2
Application Number: US-201414455608-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Keyboard

Abstract:
Embodiments of keyboards having variations of electrically connecting keys to an internal component of an electronic device are described. Some embodiments include positioning several rows of conductive layers below several rows of keys. The conductive layers may be configured to receive a signal indicating a key has been depressed. Also, the internal component may be configured to scan the conductive layers to determine whether a key or keys have been depressed. In some embodiments, the conductive layers lie outside a portion of the electronic device in which internal components are traditionally located. In some embodiments, a substrate may be integrally connected with the keyboard. The substrate may receive some internal components of the electronic device.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A keyboard for an electronic device, the keyboard comprising:
 a single-piece substrate having a first surface and a second surface different from the first surface, the single-piece substrate comprising:
 a first indentation that carries a first key, 
 a second indentation that carries a second key, the first indentation and the second indentation extending from the first surface to the second surface, 
 a third surface that partially defines the second indentation, the third surface perpendicular to the first surface and the second surface, the third surface having an opening, and 
 a rib positioned between the first indentation and the second indentation, the rib including a conduit; and 
 
 an electrically conductive layer engaging the second surface and passing through the first indentation, the second indentation, and the conduit and electrically connecting to the first key and the second key, wherein the opening receives the electrically conductive layer. 
 
     
     
       2. The keyboard as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the first indentation and the second indentation are free of apertures that extend through the single-piece substrate. 
     
     
       3. The keyboard as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the conduit is confined between the rib and the second surface. 
     
     
       4. The keyboard as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the opening allows the electrically conductive layer to pass out of the second indentation and electrically couple to an internal component of the electronic device. 
     
     
       5. The keyboard as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the first indentation comprises a light source, and wherein the electrically conductive layer comprises a metal trace that electrically connects to the light source. 
     
     
       6. The keyboard as recited in  claim 1 , further comprising a groove extending along the first indentation, the second indentation, and the conduit, the groove having a dimension such that the conductive layer is co-planar with the second surface. 
     
     
       7. The keyboard as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the single-piece substrate is formed from a metal. 
     
     
       8. The keyboard as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the first indentation comprises an aperture, and wherein the electrically conductive layer comprises a flap extending through the aperture. 
     
     
       9. The keyboard as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the electrically conductive layer comprises a conductive pin disposed in the first indentation, and wherein the conductive pin provides an indication to the electrically conductive layer when the first key is depressed. 
     
     
       10. The keyboard as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the first indentation comprises:
 a hinge mechanism coupled with the first key; 
 a switch coupled with the electrically conductive layer and the hinge mechanism. 
 
     
     
       11. A keyboard comprising:
 a substrate having a row of indentations formed in the substrate, the row of indentations carrying a row of keys; 
 a planar surface integrally formed with the substrate and covered by the row of keys, wherein the row of indentations terminate at the planar surface; and 
 an electrically conductive layer defining a unitary layer that is carried by the planar surface and extending through the row of indentations, wherein the unitary layer electrically couples to each key of the row of keys. 
 
     
     
       12. The keyboard of  claim 11 , wherein the row of indentations are formed partially through the substrate, and wherein the substrate is formed from a metal. 
     
     
       13. The keyboard of  claim 11 , further comprising an opening through the substrate, wherein the electrically conductive layer passes through the opening. 
     
     
       14. The keyboard of  claim 11 , wherein the row of indentations comprises an indentation, the indentation comprising:
 a first surface that receives the electrically conductive layer; and 
 a second surface perpendicular to the first surface, the second surface comprising an opening that receives the electrically conductive layer. 
 
     
     
       15. A keyboard comprising:
 a substrate that lacks any apertures, the substrate having a first indentation that carries a first key and a second indentation that carries a second key; 
 a planar surface integrally formed with the substrate, wherein the first indentation and the second indentation terminate at the planar surface; and 
 an electrically conductive layer extending along the first indentation and the second indentation, the electrically conductive layer electrically coupled to the first key and the second key. 
 
     
     
       16. The keyboard  claim 15 , further comprising a grooved region that passes along the first indentation and the second indentation and receives the electrically conductive layer. 
     
     
       17. The keyboard of  claim 15 , further comprising:
 a switched carried by the electrically conductive layer and located in the first indentation indentation; 
 a light source carried by the electrically conductive layer and located in the first indentation to illuminate the first key. 
 
     
     
       18. The keyboard  claim 15 , wherein the planar surface lacks any apertures.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This is a continuation of International Application PCT/US14/50308, with an international filing date of Aug. 8, 2014, entitled “KEYBOARD”, published as WO 2016/022145 on Feb. 11, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to a keyboard of an electronic device. In particular, the present embodiments relate to a keyboard having individual keys electrically connected in rows to an internal component of the electronic device. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Keyboards are generally known in the art for allowing a user input to an electronic device. Keyboards include several keys positioned within several indentations or openings within a top portion of the keyboard. The keys may be electrically connected to a substrate (e.g., printed circuit board) located within the electronic device. The substrate generally includes dimensions (e.g., length and width) similar to that of the keyboard. In other words, at least a portion of the substrate is positioned below each key. The substrate may include several switches or other components such that when a key is depressed, one of the switches or other components is actuated. This actuation may correspond to the user input to the electronic device. 
     However, keyboards using substrates in this manner have several disadvantages. For example, a substrate having similar dimensions to that of the keyboard uses a large portion of limited space within the keyboard. This reduces the amount of space available for other components, and in addition, may create difficulties in reducing the overall footprint of the keyboard. Also, in order for the substrate to receive the user input, each indentation that receives a key must include an opening such that one or more components (e.g., keycap, switch) may protrude through the opening and connect to the substrate. These openings allow for ingress of contaminants (e.g., dust, liquids) to propagate to various components within the keyboard and/or the electronic device, which may result in damage to or failure of the electronic device. Also, the openings necessarily result in removal of material from the keyboard causing a reduction in the overall rigidity of the keyboard. Accordingly, the keyboard may appear less sturdy to a user. 
     The substrate also occupies an area that could otherwise be used to receive other internal components, such as an interior portion of the keyboard located on a portion opposite the indentations. As a result, some internal components that generate heat within the electronic device are in close proximity to other internal components vulnerable to heat. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, a keyboard for performing a user input to an electronic device is described. The keyboard may include a substrate having a top portion and a rear portion opposite the first portion, the top portion including a first indentation and a second indentation. The keyboard may further include a rib positioned between the first indentation and the second indentation. The keyboard may further include a conductive layer providing an electrical pathway to the first indentation and the second indentation. In some embodiments, a portion of the conductive layer is positioned within the first indentation and the second indentation. 
     In another aspect, an electronic device is described. The electronic device may include a top case having a keyboard. The keyboard may include a first row of indentations having a first conductive layer extending along the first row of indentations. The keyboard may further include a second row of indentations having a second conductive layer extending along the second row of indentations. In some embodiments, the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are electrically connected to an internal component in the electronic device. In some embodiments, a bottom case is engaged with the top case. 
     In another aspect, a method for forming a top case of an electronic device, the top case formed from an aluminum substrate, is described. The method may include removing a first portion of the aluminum substrate to define several indentations for a keyboard and an opening for a touch pad, the several indentations including a first row of indentations having a first indentation and a second indentation. The method may further include removing a second portion of the aluminum substrate to define a lip portion extending around an outer peripheral portion of the aluminum substrate. The method may further include removing a third portion of the aluminum substrate to define a conduit below a rib positioned between the first indentation and the second indentation. 
     Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of an electronic device in an open configuration; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a keyboard with the keyboard keys of the keyboard removed, showing conductive layers extending through the indentations; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the keyboard along the line  3 - 3  shown in  FIG. 2 , illustrating the conductive layers positioned on rear portion of the keyboard; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of the top case (shown in  FIG. 1 ); 
         FIG. 5  illustrates an isometric view of top the case shown in  FIG. 4 , rotated to show in an internal portion of top case; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates an enlarged portion of an alternate embodiment of a keyboard having grooves extending along the indentations; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a key assembly configured to be positioned into an indentation; 
         FIGS. 8 and 9  illustrates a cross sectional side view of an embodiment of an electronic device having a conductive layer extending through openings of a keyboard; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a cross sectional side view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device having a conductive layer extending through one opening of a keyboard; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a keyboard having apertures in the indentations, the apertures configured to receive extensions of a conductive layer; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates an enlarged portion of the keyboard in  FIG. 10 , showing how the extensions are received by the indentations; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates an enlarged portion of the keyboard in  FIG. 10 , with an alternate embodiment of a conductive layer engaged with the keyboard; 
         FIGS. 13 and 14  illustrate an enlarged portion of a keyboard showing embodiments of a conductive layer extending through a row of substantially rectangular keys (e.g., function key row); 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a keyboard having indentations with apertures; conductive layers may extend through the indentations and the apertures in a weave pattern; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a cross sectional side view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates an enlarged portion of an embodiment of a conductive layer shown in  FIGS. 15 and 16 ; 
         FIG. 18  illustrates an enlarged portion of an embodiment of a keyboard having a conductive layer weaving through indentations and apertures; the conductive layer further includes an insert; 
         FIGS. 19 and 20  illustrate another embodiment of an enlarged portion of a keyboard having a conductive layer having a flap extending through an indentation via an aperture in the indentation; 
         FIG. 21  illustrates an embodiment of an enlarged portion of a keyboard having a component and a light source positioned within the indentations; 
         FIG. 22  illustrates an alternate embodiment of an enlarged portion of a keyboard with the components and light sources rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise; 
         FIG. 23  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a keyboard having a rectangular indentation, the rectangular indentation having grooves which reduce they thickness of a rear portion of the keyboard; 
         FIGS. 24 and 25  illustrate an isometric view of a top the case rotated to show in an internal portion of the top case having substrates configured to receive internal components of an electronic device; 
         FIG. 26  illustrates an embodiment of a portion of a keyboard having individual, or modular, conductive layers; 
         FIG. 27  illustrates an enlarged portion of the keyboard in  FIG. 26 , showing two modular conductive layers in different rows of keys electrically connected to each other; 
         FIG. 28  illustrates a top view of an enlarged portion of a keyboard having a conductive layer below a rear portion of the keyboard, i.e., not within the indentations of the keyboard; 
         FIG. 29  illustrates a cross sectional side view of an embodiments of the conductive layer in  FIG. 28 , with a conductive pin positioned in an aperture of the keyboard; 
         FIG. 30  illustrates a cross sectional side view of an embodiments of the conductive layer in  FIG. 28 , with the conductive pin replaced with a sensor; 
         FIG. 31  illustrates an enlarged portion of an embodiment of a keyboard having inserts positioned in grooves of apertures, the inserts electrically connected to a conductive layer positioned below a rear portion of the keyboard; 
         FIG. 32  illustrates an isometric view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 31 , further showing a groove in an aperture and the insert electrically connected to the conductive layer; 
         FIG. 33  illustrates an interior portion of a top case in accordance with the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 31 and 32 ; and 
         FIG. 34  illustrates a flowchart showing a method for forming a top case of an electronic device, the top case formed from an aluminum substrate. 
     
    
    
     Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that, according to common practice, various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that dimensions of various features and elements of the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention described herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     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. 
     The following disclosure relates to an electronic device having a keyboard with conductive layers integrated with the keyboard. These conductive layers may a printed circuit board (“PCB”) or a flexible layer having an electrically conductive material or materials configured to electrically connect the keys of the keyboard to an internal component of the electronic device. The conductive layers may be positioned within the indentations, or keyholes, used to receive the keys. The keyboard may include ribs positioned between adjacent indentations. Some of the ribs include an “underpass” or conduit machined in the lower portion of the ribs thereby allowing the conductive layers to extend along a row of indentations. Each conductive layer is configured to receive a user input generated by depressing one or more keys in the row corresponding to the conductive layer. Also, each conductive layer is configured to provide electric current to each key which may be used for a light source (e.g., light-emitting diode, or LED) positioned within individual indentations and/or to power a switch or other component that is actuated when a key is pressed. These conductive layers are electrically connected to at least one internal component within the electronic device. For example, the conductive layers may be electrically connected to a processor or main logic board, either of which may be configured to convert the user input to a predetermined function (e.g., pressing a key with a “1” label on the key generates a “1” being displayed on a display panel of the electronic device). Also, the internal component may use the conductive layer to scan the row of keys electrically connected to the conductive layer to determine whether a key is depressed. 
     In some embodiments, the indentations do not include any apertures or openings, but may open to a conduit described above. As such, the conductive layers pass through the indentations and the conduits, thereby creating minimal exposure of internal components of the electronic device to ingress of contaminants. The keyboard may include openings at lateral portions of the keyboard allowing the conductive layers to pass through the openings and electrically connect to an internal component. However, these openings are generally positioned in a manner that provides significantly less access to internal components in the electronic device. Also, the aggregate amount of materials used to form the conductive layers may be substantially less than that of a traditional printed circuit board. This allows for additional space within the electronic device (for example, in an area below the keyboard). Alternatively, this may allow for electronic devices having an overall reduced size. 
     While the keyboard configuration described above does not include apertures in the indentations, other embodiments of a keyboard may include apertures located on a vertical sidewall or surface of the indentation. In this manner, a conductive layer may include an extension for each key associated with the conductive layer. The extensions are configured to pass through the apertures and electrically connected keys within the apertures to an internal component. While the extensions may be visible in the indentation to connect to the keys, a lengthwise portion of the conductive layer is positioned within the keyboard (i.e., not visible) above or below the indentations. 
     In some embodiments, the keyboard includes indentations having apertures proximate to the ribs such that a conductive layer extends along the indentations and conduits in the ribs in a weave pattern. However, a rear portion defining a surface on which the conductive layers are positioned does not include any apertures. Thus, the internal components are again shielded from contaminants. 
     Also, in some embodiments, the keyboard may include a rear portion with a first surface defining a lower portion of the indentations, and a second surface opposite the first surface configured to integrally receive a substrate that receives an internal component (e.g., fan). The internal component may be coupled to a conductive layer used to electrically connect the keys to an internal component of the electronic device. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-34 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of electronic device  100  in an open configuration. In some embodiments, electronic device  100  is a portable electronic device such as a MacBook®, made by Apple, Inc., from Cupertino, Calif. Electronic device  100  includes base portion  102  pivotably connected to a lid  104 . Lid  104  may be formed having uni-body construction configured to provide additional strength and resiliency which is particularly important due to the stresses caused by repeated opening and closing occurring during normal use. In addition to the increased strength and resiliency, the uni-body construction of lid  104  can reduce an overall part count by eliminating separate support features, which may decrease manufacturing cost and/or complexity. 
     Display  106  may be coupled to lid  104  such that display  106  is provided with structural support. Lid  104  may include display trim  108  that surrounds display  106 . Display trim  108  can be formed of an opaque material such as ink deposited on top of or within a protective layer of display  106 . Thus, display trim  108  can enhance the overall appearance of display  106  by hiding operational and structural components as well as focusing attention onto the active area of the display. 
     Display  106  can display visual content such as a graphical user interface, still images such as photos as well as video media items such as movies. Display  106  can display images using any appropriate technology such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, etc. 
     Base  102  may include top case  110 . As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , top case  110  is configured to accommodate various user input devices such as a keyboard  112  and a touchpad  114 . In particular, these user input devices may be exposed such that a user may interact with the input devices when electronic device  100  is positioned in the open configuration. 
     Further, base  102  may include a bottom case (not shown). The bottom case along with top case  110  may cooperate to receive various other electronic and mechanical components. In some embodiments, base  102 , top case  110  and bottom case are made from a metallic material (for example, aluminum). Also, in some cases, top case  110  is formed from single aluminum substrate and machine to remove material in a desired manner. 
     As may be understood, by way of example, the electronic components may include a mass storage device (e.g., a hard drive or a solid state storage device such as a flash memory device including non-transitory and tangible memory that may be, for example, volatile and/or non-volatile memory) configured to store information, data, files, applications, instructions or the like, a processor (e.g., a microprocessor or controller) configured to control the overall operation of the portable electronic device, a communication interface configured for transmitting and receiving data through, for example, a wired or wireless network such as a local area network (LAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), and/or a wide area network (WAN), for example, the Internet, a fan, a heat pipe, and one or more batteries. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates a top view of an embodiment of keyboard  112  with the keyboard keys of keyboard  112  removed. Conductive layers  116  extend along rows in areas below which the keys of keyboard  112  are received. In some embodiments, conductive layers  116  are formed from PCB. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , conductive layers  116  are formed from a flexible material further including an electrically conductive material (or materials). However, the electrically conductive material or materials may be surrounded by an insulated material (e.g., EMI shield) such that conductive layers  116  are not electrically connected to component such as keyboard  112 . When the keyboard keys are installed, conductive layers  116  are configured to electrically connect each key in the row to an internal component (e.g., processor, main logic board, internal power supply) of the electronic device. This allows conductive layers  116  to receive a user input (e.g., pressing a key) from any key and relay the user input to the internal component. Also, conductive layers  116  may be configured to provide electrical current to each key in order to, for example, power a light source (e.g., LED) positioned below each key and/or power a switch used to generate the user input previously described. For example, first conductive layer  118  is configured to electrically connect the uppermost row of keys (when the keys are installed) to an internal component. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a cross-sectional view of keyboard  112  along the line  3 - 3  shown in  FIG. 2 , illustrating conductive layers  116  positioned on rear portion  120  of keyboard  112 . Rear portion  120  is generally associated with a surface on which conductive layers  116  are positioned. Alternatively, rear portion  120  may be referred to as a portion remaining after removal process removes material to form a location that receives the keys (not shown). In some embodiments, conductive layers  116  are adhesively attached to rear portion  120 . Also, in some embodiments, rear portion  120  includes an aperture in order to receive a component (e.g., switch, LED) electrically connected to an internal component. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3 , rear portion  120  does not include any apertures, as conductive layers  116  are capable of receiving the components and transmitting electrical signals from the keys to an internal component. Electric signals may include a data signal or signals notifying an internal component (not shown) electrically connected to conductive layer  116  that at least one key electrically connected to conductive layer  116  is depressed.  FIG. 3  also shows conductive layers  116  having a thickness. For example, first conductive layer  118  includes thickness  122  approximately in the range of 0.08 to 0.2 mm. Conductive layers  116  positioned on rear portion  120  may replace a traditional PCBs (traditionally positioned below rear portion  120 ) used to electrically connect the keys to an internal component of an electronic device. In this manner, additional internal components may occupy the space previously occupied by the PCB. Alternatively, the electronic device may be made smaller or more compact. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of top case  110  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) having lip portion  124  extending around an outer peripheral portion of top case  110 . In some embodiments, lip portion  124  is prefabricated and subsequently connected top case  110  by, for example, welding, soldering, and/or adhesives. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , top case  110  is unitary body with material removed from a lower portion (not shown) of top case  110  to define lip portion  124  as shown. Removal means may include machining or cutting by an end mill or a computer numerical control (“CNC”) cutting tool. It will be appreciated that removal means may include any tool known in the art for removing material from a metallic substrate. Also, lip portion  124  includes lip height  126  extending vertically from a top portion  128  of top case  110  to a lower edge of lip portion. 
     Top case  110  further includes indentations  130  that define areas in which individual keys may be positioned. Indentations  130  may be formed by removing material from top case  110  in any manner previously described for removing material to form lip portion  124 . Also, several ribs are positioned between adjacent indentations. Further, some of the ribs may include conduits (or underpasses) formed at lower portions of the ribs. These conduits may be formed by a cutting tool (e.g., a T-shaped cutting tool or “T-cutter”) or alternatively, by removal means previously described. The enlarged view in  FIG. 4  shows exemplary first indentation  132  and second indentation  134  adjacent to first indentation  132 . Also, first indentation  132  includes a depth  138  extending from top portion  128  of top case  110  to rear portion  120  of keyboard  112 . Top case  110  is machined or fabricated such that depth  138  is less than lip height  126  of lip portion  124 . This may create space between bottom portion  120  and a bottom case (not shown) engaged with lip portion  124  such that several internal components may be positioned between rear portion  120  and the bottom case. Also, first rib  136  is positioned between first indentation  132  and second indentation  134 . First rib  136  includes first conduit  140  in a lower portion of first rib. The conduits in  FIG. 4  are configured to open into adjacent indentations such that a conductive layer (e.g., one of the conductive layers  116  in  FIGS. 2 and 3 ) passes through the indentations and the conduit. Also, as shown in  FIG. 4 , first conduit  140  is generally rectangular. However, first conduit  140  may include any shape corresponding to the shape of conductive layers  116  (shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 ) in order to receive conductive layers  116 . Also, the conduits shown in  FIG. 4  are generally similar in shape and size. However, the size and shape of the conduits could vary in order to accommodate the dimension of the indentations. For example, third indentation  142  includes at least a dimension less than that of first indentation  132 . Accordingly, a smaller conductive layer and correspondingly conduit may be necessary. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates an isometric view of top case  110  shown in  FIG. 4 , rotated to show in an internal portion of top case  110 . As previously discussed, top case  110  is a unitary structure having material removal by a tool previously described. Conductive layers  116  may be inserted between rear portion  120  and the ribs (shown in  FIG. 4 ). Conductive layers  116  further extend through openings  142  and  144  formed between rear portion  120  and top portion  128 . It should be noted that rear portion  120  does not include any openings or apertures in areas directly adjacent to the indentations (shown in  FIG. 4 ) other than openings  142  and  144 . Rather, the keys may be electrically connected to internal components via (e.g., processor, internal power supply) conductive layers  116 . 
       FIG. 6  illustrates an enlarged area of an alternate embodiment of keyboard  212  having grooves extending along rear portion  220  of keyboard. For example, first groove  214  extends through first indentation  232  and first conduit  236 , and second groove  216  extends through second indentation  234  and second conduit  238 . First groove  214  and second groove  216  are configured to receive a conductive layer previously described. These grooves may be used, for example, to create additional space in the indentations which receive the keys of keyboard  212 . Also, although first groove  214  and second groove  216  are shown in  FIG. 6  having a rectangular dimension, first groove  214  and/or second groove  216  may include any dimension corresponding to the conductive layer in order to receive the conductive layer. It should be understood that  FIG. 6  represents an exemplary portion, and the grooves extend across an entire row of indentations to accommodate a conductive layer. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of key assembly  240 , or simply key  240 , configured to be positioned into indentation  260 . For illustrative purposes, an enlarged portion of keyboard  262  is shown. Key  240  may include keycap  242  having symbol  244 . Symbol  244  may be any character generally known to be positioned on a keycap of a keyboard. In some embodiments, symbol  244  includes transparent material through which light from light source  250  passes. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 7 , symbol  244  is printed on keycap  242 . Keycap  242  may be coupled to hinge mechanism  246  configured to bias in a direction toward keycap  242  (i.e., away from keyboard  262 ), and pivot about outer regions  248  and  258  when keycap  242  is depressed. Key assembly  240  may further include switch  252 . In some embodiments, switch  252  is a mechanical switch configured to signal conductive layer  254  that keycap  242  is depressed. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 7 , switch  252  is an electronic switch. Switch  252  may be electrically coupled to metal trace  256  of conductive layer  254  in order to electrically couple switch  252  with conductive layer  254 . Although keycap  242  is shown having a substantially square shape, keycap  242  may be substantially rectangular. Accordingly, other components of key  240  (e.g., hinge mechanism  246 ) may include various dimensions to accommodate keycap  242  having a shape other than that shown in  FIG. 7 . For example, a space bar of a keyboard may include one dimension substantially greater than another dimension. 
       FIGS. 8 and 9  illustrate cross sectional views showing various embodiments of a keyboard. The electronic device may include openings or inlets configured to receive a conductive layer such that the conductive layer may be electrically connect a row of keys to an internal component of the electronic device. 
       FIG. 8  shows an embodiment of electronic device  300  having top case  302  engaged with bottom case  304 , with internal component  306  enclosed between top case  302  and bottom case  304 . Conductive layer  308 , positioned on rear portion  310  associated with a keyboard contained by top case  302 , electrically connects a row of keys  312  of the keyboard to internal component  306 . Row of keys  312  further includes first opening  314  and second opening  316 , both of which are generally located on lateral portions of top case  302  and further configured to receive conductive layer  308 . In this manner, any contaminants falling in a direction toward electronic device  300  may not have a direct path to internal component  306 . Only first opening  314  and second opening  316 , both of which are already occupied by conductive layer  308 , provide an area of ingress. Further, because conductive layer  308  is positioned between ribs  318  and rear portion  310 , additional space may be available between rear portion  310  and internal component  306 . This may be advantageous over traditional electronic devices with keyboards electrically connected to a unitary PCB located below rear portion  310 . 
       FIG. 9  shows an alternate embodiment of electronic device  400  having top case  402  engaged with bottom case  404 , with first internal component  406  electrically connected to keys  412  via conductive layer  408 . Top case  402  includes opening  414  configured to receive conductive layer  408 . A single opening, such as opening  414 , may be useful to reduce the number of openings in top case  402 . Further, this may be useful in instances when internal component  406  must be shielded from second component  416  by column  418 , or alternatively, when column  418  is used to support rear portion  410 . Also, although  FIG. 8  shows opening  414  proximate to first key  420 , in other embodiments, opening  414  is proximate to second key  422 . 
     Also, in some embodiments, a conductive layer (e.g., conductive layer shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 ) may be replaced if damaged. For example, if a contaminant renders a key or keys in a row inoperable, the keys may be removed from the conductive layer and reattached to a replacement conductive layer. The conductive layer may include a connection device that is received by an internal component for easy connectivity. This may allow for an efficient rework operation as opposed to a unitary PCB which, if damaged, would require removal of all keys followed by installing a replacement PCB. 
     Although, the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9  include a rear portion that is generally flat or level, the rear portion may be bowed in a central region (e.g., an area above second component  416  in  FIG. 9 ) such that gravity compels any contaminants in contact with the rear portion away from openings (e.g., opening  414  in  FIG. 9 ). This may further prevent the contaminants from entering the opening or openings that receive the conductive layer. 
     Although previous embodiments describe the indentations for receiving the keys being free of openings on the rear portion, other embodiments may include indentations having openings through which portions of conductive layers may extend. For example,  FIG. 10  illustrates top view keyboard  502  with indentations  504  configured to receive keys (not shown). Some indentations  504  include additional material removed to form grooves  506  having openings  508  configured to receive a portion of the conductive layers. An exemplary conductive layer  510  is shown having extensions  512  configured to pass through openings  508 . Rather than being positioned below the indentations  504 , a lengthwise portion of conductive layer  510  may generally be positioned between adjacent rows of indentations  510  with extensions  512  positioned within indentations  504 . It will be appreciated that extensions  512  are made from similar materials as that of conductive layer  510  and are configured to electrically connect the keys to internal components in a similar manner previously described. 
       FIG. 11  illustrates an enlarged portion of keyboard  502  in  FIG. 10 , showing keyboard  502  with first indentation  514  having first groove  524 , second indentation  516  having second groove  526 , and third indentation  518  having third groove  528 . In order to receive an extension of conductive layer  510 , first groove  524  includes first opening  534 , second groove  524  includes second opening  536 , and third groove  528  includes third opening  538 . Conductive layer  510  includes first extension  544 , second extension  546 , and third extension  548  that may be positioned into first groove  524 , second groove  526 , and third groove  528 , respectively. In this manner, conductive layer  510  provides an electrical pathway for keys positioned in first indentation  514 , second indentation  516 , and third indentation  518 . The extensions and the grooves may further include apertures in order to receive, for example, a light source or switch. For example, first groove  524  includes first aperture  552  configured to align with first aperture  554  of first extension  544 . Also, conductive layer  510  may be electrically connected to an internal component in any manner previously described for a conductive layer. For example, keyboard  502  may include openings in lateral portion of keyboard allowing conductive layer  510  connect to an internal component. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates an enlarged portion of keyboard  502  in  FIG. 10 , with of an alternative embodiment of conductive layer  570  engaged within keyboard  502 . Conductive layer  570  may include first metal trace  572 , second metal trace  574 , and third metal trace  576 , all of which are configured to provide an electrical contact to keys positioned first indentation  582 , second indentation  584 , and third indentation  586 , respectively. Further, in order to provide insulation from electromagnetic interference (EMI) and/or to provide insulation from adjacent keys, guards may be placed within the indentations. For example, first indentation  582 , second indentation  584 , and third indentation  586  include first guard  592 , second guard  594 , and third guard  596  positioned within first indentation  582 , second indentation  584 , and third indentation  586 , respectively. Although the guards shown in  FIG. 12  are substantially square, the guards could include any shape corresponding to an indentation such that the guards fit into the indentation and provide EMI insulation. Also, the guards may include a height similar to the height (or depth) of the indentation. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 10 , keyboard  502  may include an uppermost row  522  of indentations which receive a row of keys referred to as the “function key row” in traditional keyboards. For example, the function key row may include the “F1” and “F2” function buttons generally having a rectangular shape. The indentations associated with the function key row may include lesser dimensions that that of other indentations on keyboard  502 . As a result, in some cases, the mechanical clearance within the indentations of corresponding to the function key rows reduces the overall usable area of the conductive layer within the indentation. For example, FIGS.  13  and  14  illustrate an enlarged portion uppermost row  522  of keyboard  502  (shown in  FIG. 10 ).  FIG. 13  illustrates an embodiment of conductive layer  610  extending through first indentation  612  and second indentation  614 . In instances where first indentation  612  and second indentation  614  includes apertures  616 , the useable area may of conductive layer  610  within first indentation  612  and second indentation  614  may be reduced. In this configuration, the width  618  associated with a useable area of conductive layer  610  may be as little has 1.5 to 2 mm. In other words, rather than having the entire width of conductive layer  610 , metal trace  620  and light source  622 , both within first indentation  612 , are limited to the width  618  of conductive layer  610 . 
     However, by using a conductive layer having extensions (functioning in a similar manner previously described) and by rotating the apertures within the indentations, the usable area of the conductive layer may increase.  FIG. 14  shows conductive layer  630  located above upper most row  522  with a lengthwise portion of conductive layer  630  positioned below keyboard  502 , with conductive layer  630  having first extension  632  and second extension  634  may extend into first indentation  612  and second indentation  614 , respectively. This requires an additional cut similar to a conduit under a rib (see, for example, rib  136  and conduit  140 , in  FIG. 4 ) in order to feed first extension  632  and second extension  634  into the respective indentations. In this manner, first extension  632  and second extension  634  may include a usable width  638  greater than that of usable width  618  (in  FIG. 13 ). 
     In some embodiments, a keyboard may include apertures not only to receive other components but to allow a conductive layer to extend through successive indentations in a row. For example,  FIG. 15  illustrates another embodiment of a keyboard  650  having a different configuration for apertures within the indentations. For example, exemplary first row  652  and second row  654  include apertures configured to allow a conductive layer to pass through apertures in a weave pattern. For example, conductive layer  656  may pass through first row  652  in such a manner Second row  654  includes an exemplary indentation  658  having first aperture  660  and second aperture  662 . These apertures may also be present in indentations of first row  652 . 
       FIG. 16  illustrates an enlarged cross sectional portion of first row  652  in  FIG. 15 , showing conductive layer  656  weaving through the apertures of the indentations. For example, conductive layer  656  passes through first indentation  664  having first aperture  666  and second aperture  668 , and further passes under first rib  670 . Conductive layer  656  then extends into second indentation  674  having first aperture  676  and second aperture  678 , and so on. Also, conductive layer  656  may be electrically connected to an internal component in any manner previously described for a conductive layer. For example, keyboard  650  may include openings in a lateral portion or portions allowing conductive layer  656  to connect to an internal component. It will be appreciated that  FIG. 16  is for exemplary purposes, and some features may be exaggerated or non-proportional to show detail. For example, conductive layer  656  may include a thickness substantially smaller than that of rib  670 . 
       FIG. 17  illustrates dimensional detail as well as internal characteristics of conductive layer  656  shown in  FIG. 15 . For example, conductive layer  656  may include first trace layer  682  and second trace layer  684 , both which include an electrically conductive material or materials electrically shielded from, for example, the keyboard. First trace layer  682  and second trace layer  684  are configured to provide electrical current to an entire row of keys, for example, to power an LED and or/switch. Also, first trace layer  682  and second trace layer  684  may allow for an internal component to scan the row of keys in order determine whether any switch or switches associated with the row of keys are actuated. In other words, first trace layer  682  and second trace layer  684  allow an electronic device to determine whether a key has been depressed. The width of the trace layers allow conductive layer  656  to conforming to the size of the indentations in which the conductive layer  656  is positioned. For example, first trace layer includes width  688  approximately in the range of 0.7 to 1.1 mm. Also, first trace layer  682  and or second trace layer  684  may be electrically connected to a metal trace on conductive layer  656 , such as metal trace  690 . 
       FIG. 18  illustrates an enlarged portion of alternative embodiment of a keyboard  702  having conductive layer  710  positioned in a keyboard in a weave pattern. Further, conductive layer include inserts electrically connected to conductive layer  710 . For example, first insert  712  serves as a substrate to receive components of a key assembly  240  (shown in  FIG. 7 ). In some embodiments, first insert  712  is a PCB insert. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 18 , first insert  712  is a metallic substrate (e.g., sheet metal) pre-molded to fit within first indentation  722 . First insert  712  may be any metal capable of creating an electrically conductive path. First insert  712  may be configured to electrically connect to a light source (not shown) within first indentation  722  and/or switch (not shown) configured to be actuated by depressing a key positioned in first indentation  722 . By using inserts, conductive layer  710  may be substantially insulated (electrically and mechanically) while having only minimal exposure in order to connect to the inserts. Also, conductive layer  710  may be used in rows having different dimensions. In this manner, only the inserts (e.g., first insert  712 ) vary within the indentations while conductive layer  710  remains the same. 
       FIGS. 19 and 20  illustrate another embodiment of an enlarged portion of conductive layer  760  configured to electrically connect to a row of keys. For illustrative purposes, an enlarged portion of keyboard  750  is shown to illustrate the relationship between indentation  752  and conductive layer  760 . Conductive layer  760  may include flap  762  cut from conductive layer  760 . Flap  762  may be configured to pass through first aperture  754  of keyboard and rest over or metal trace  756  positioned in a groove of rear portion  758 . In this manner, flap  762  may be electrically connected to metal trace  756  such that a key of keyboard  750  may be inserted into indentation  752  and be electrically connected to an internal component via flap  762  and conductive layer  760 . Also, conductive layer  760  may include thickness  766  approximately in the range of 0.08 to 0.2 mm. 
       FIG. 20  illustrates a bottom view of keyboard  750  showing conductive layer  760  extending along a row of indentations  768  and connected to a metal trace (not shown). Although conductive layer  760  is positioned below rear portion  758 , thickness  766  of conductive layer  760  is substantially less than that of a traditional PCB. 
       FIGS. 21 and 22  illustrate a top view of enlarged portions of keyboards having components within indentation oriented in different manners.  FIG. 21  shows keyboard  800  having components and switches in “12 o&#39;clock” orientation. For example, first indentation  802  includes first component  804  and first switch  806  proximate to uppermost portion  810  of first indentation  802 . However, similar components and switches to those shown in  FIG. 21  may be rotated in order to reduce the thickness of the indentations of the keyboard. In  FIG. 22 , keyboard  820  shows keyboard  820  having components and switches in “9 o&#39;clock” orientation. For example, first indentation  822  includes first component  824  and first switch  826  rotated approximately 90 degrees counterclockwise with respect to first component  804  and first switch  806  (both shown in  FIG. 21 ). By reducing the thickness in the indentations of the keyboard, particularly near the ends of the rows of keys, additional thickness may be added to the keyboard in other portions (e.g., a rear portion). As a result, additional components may be integrated with the keyboard thereby creating more efficient use of space within an electronic device. This will be discussed in detail below. 
     While some keys assemblies (e.g., substantially square keys) may include components rotated in a manner previously described, rotation of other key assemblies may not be possible. However, thickness reduction of the keyboard may still be achieved.  FIG. 23  illustrates an isometric view of an enlarged portion of keyboard  850  with indentation  852  having a substantially rectangular in shape, and further having first light source  854  and second light source  856 . In this embodiment, indentation  852  is near a key in the uppermost row of keyboard  850 , similar uppermost row  522  in  FIG. 10 . However, in other embodiments, indentation  852  is located at the end of a different row of keys, such as “Tab” key or “Return” key, or another key in a traditional keyboard known to be substantially rectangular. 
     Due to the limited available space of conductive layer  860  coupled with first light source  854  and second light source  856 , a rotation of components (not shown) and lights sources is not feasible. For example, housing  866  used to receive a switch (not shown) may include a shape that does not allow for rotation. In order to reduce thickness (or depth) of indentation  852 , indentation  852  may include grooves within indentation  852 . For example, indentation  852  includes first groove  862  and second groove  864  associated with material removed from indentation  852 . In other embodiments, indentation includes a single groove. First groove  862  and second groove  864  may be machined or cut, or formed in another manner within indentation  852 . Also, as shown in  FIG. 23 , conductive layer  860  is sufficiently flexible to be positioned within first groove  862  and second groove  864 . Also, housing  866  may include a boss, such as first boss  868 , positioned within opening  870  of first indentation  852 . In some embodiments, a heat staking process is used to deform (via heat) the bosses to attach to keyboard  850 . For example, first boss  868  has undergone a heat staking process to the shape of opening  870 . This allows housing  866  to be secured within indentation  852  in an area not occupied by first groove  862  and second groove  864 . 
     A keyboard using the methods for reducing thickness of an exterior portion of a keyboard (described in  FIGS. 21-23 ) may integrate additional components by increasing thickness of corresponding interior portions inside the keyboard. For example,  FIGS. 24 and 25  illustrate a bottom view of keyboard  902  showing an internal portion of keyboard  902  having first substrate  904  and second substrate  906 . In some embodiments, first substrate  904  and second substrate  906  are made from a plastic material. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 24 , first substrate  904  and second substrate  906  are made from a material similar to that of keyboard  902  (e.g., aluminum). The interior portion of keyboard  902  may undergo a material removal process such that protrusions (e.g., bosses) remain. For example, first protrusion  909  and second protrusion  911  may be configured to receive a fastener (e.g., screw, rivet) through first opening  908  and second opening  910  of first substrate  904  and second substrate  906 , respectively. This allows for simplified integration of the substrates  904  and  906  with keyboard  902 . 
     Also, in some embodiments, a rear portion of keyboard  902  is machined in a manner previously described such that conductive layers may pass through several ribs. In other embodiments, several rows of conductive layers may weave between ribs and a rear portion of keyboard  902 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 24 , keyboard  902  includes first input-output (“I/O”) board  912  and second I/O board  914  secured between first substrate  904 , second substrate  906 , a rear portion  913  of keyboard  902 , and further fastened by plate  916 . In some embodiments, first I/O board  912  and second I/O board  914  are made from metal. In other embodiments, first I/O board  912  and second I/O board  914  are made from PCB. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 25 , first I/O board  912  and second I/O board  914  are made from a metal clad printed circuit board (MPCB). Also, in other embodiments, a single board may be used. First substrate  904  and second substrate  906  may further include first opening  918  and second opening  920 , respectively. First opening  918  and second opening  920  are configured to be positioned over first connection  922  and second connection  924 . First connection  922  and second connection  924  are electrically connected to first I/O board  912  and second I/O board  914 , respectively. In this manner, a component positioned on first substrate  904  and/or second substrate  906  may be electrically connected to first I/O board  912  and/or second I/O board  914 , respectively. 
       FIG. 25  illustrates an isometric view of the internal portion of keyboard  902  having a fan assembly  930  positioned on first substrate  904 . Fan assembly  930  may electrically connected to first I/O board  912  via first connector  922  (shown in  FIG. 24 ). In some embodiments, fan assembly  930  is configured to drive air in a direction toward internal components to cool the internal components. In some embodiments, fan assembly  930  is configured to drive air in a direction toward first substrate  904  to cool first substrate  904  and further cool first I/O board  912 . Second substrate  906  is generally capable of receiving any component that first substrate  904  is capable of receiving. Also, although first substrate  904  and second substrate  906  include a unique shape, as shown in  FIG. 25 , first substrate  904  and second substrate  906  may take on additional shapes or configurations in order to receive a desired component. First I/O board  912  may be configured to receive connector  932 , which may be part of a cable assembly that electrically connects an external device (not shown) to first I/O board  912 . Also, second I/O board  914  is capable of electrically connecting to connector  932  via substrate  934 . An electronic device having a keyboard region with integrated components may create additional space for the electronic device to, for example, include additional components to create an electronic device with greater capabilities. Alternatively, lip portion  926  may include a reduce lip height  928  to form a more compact electronic device. 
     Some embodiments do not require a conductive layer to electrically connect keys in a row, while still also not requiring a traditional PCB positioned below a bottom portion of the keyboard. In these embodiments, each indentation may include a modular layer configured to electrically connect individual keys to an internal component of an electronic device. These modular layers include extensions that may be mechanically and electrically connect to other modular layers. For example,  FIG. 26  illustrates in isometric top view of a portion of keyboard  952  including first indentation  954  and second indentation  956  having layer  964  and second layer  966 , respectively. In some embodiments, first layer  964  and second layer  966  are formed from PCB material. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 26 , first layer  964  and second layer  966  are generally flexible layers configured to be positioned on a bottom portion of first indentation  954  and second indentation  966 , respectively. Also, first layer  964  and/or second layer  966  may be configured to connect with other adjacent modular layers positioned in other indentations. For example, first layer  964  is connected to second layer  966  below rib  968  positioned between first indentation  954  and second indentation  956 . Ultimately, at least one of the layers electrically connects to an internal component (not shown) thereby providing both electrical current to the keys as well as provides a pathway for an internal component to scan the various keys to determine whether a switch or switches (not shown) have been depressed within the indentations. Also, first layer  964  and second layer  966  may each receive a light source (e.g., LED) configured to provide light within first indentation  954  and second indentation  956 , respectively. Also, first layer  964  and  966  may be configured to electrically connect a switch configured to be actuated when a key (not shown) is depressed. It should be noted that while first layer  964  and second layer  966  provide an electrical path for keys associated with the first layer  964  and second layer  966 , first layer  964  and second layer  964  are otherwise electrically shielded from keyboard  952  to prevent electric shock to a user. 
       FIG. 27  illustrates an exemplary connection between first layer  964  and second layer  966 . In this embodiment, first layer  964  includes extension  970  configured to extend below rib  968 . An interface region  972  on second layer  966  is configured to receive extension  970 . Extension  970  may be soldered, welded, or otherwise electrically connected to interface region  972 . Also, in the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 26 and 27 , first layer  964  and second layer  966  are not positioned in the same row. However, in other embodiments, first layer  964  and second layer  966  are positioned in the same row, and further include similar connection means to each other as previously described. By using modular layers as described, individual keys and/or modular layers may be individually replaced or repaired without alteration to other keys and/or modular layers. In this manner, the cost of repair may be significantly reduced as a result of time and materials savings. 
       FIGS. 28-30  illustrate an embodiment of a keyboard having a conductive layer positioned below a rear portion of the keyboard. In order to reduce the overall space occupied by the conductive layer, in some embodiments, the conductive layer may include an EMI shield merged with the conductive layer.  FIG. 28  shows a top view of an enlarged portion of keyboard  1002  having conductive layer  1010  extending along a row of indentations. Also, keyboard  1002  may include indentations having apertures (e.g., first aperture  1014  in first indentation  1004 ). In order to indicate to an internal component of an electronic device that a key is depressed, conductive layer  1010  may include conductive pins passing through the apertures. Conductive pins may be configured to receive and transmit a signal to conductive layer  1010  which may be electrically connected to the internal component. The signal may include an electrical signal or a data signal that one of the conductive pins is actuated.  FIG. 29  shows a cross sectional side view of first indentation  1004  includes first conductive pin  1012  passing through first aperture  1014 . First conductive pin  1012  is configured to send signal  1018  to conductive layer  1010  when first keycap  1020  is depressed. 
     Alternatively, a keyboard may include sensors configured to send a signal to a conductive layer.  FIG. 30  shows a cross sectional side view of keyboard  1052  engaged with conductive layer  1060  having sensors positioned in the indentations. In some embodiments, the sensor is a capacitive sensor configured to send a signal to the conductive layer when the capacitive sensor senses a change in capacitance near a sensing region of the capacitive sensor. As shown, first indentation  1054  includes first sensor  1062  passing partially through first aperture  1064 . First sensor  1062  is configured to change a state (e.g., provide a switching signal  1068 ) to conductive layer  1060  when first keycap  1070  is depressed even if first sensor  1062  is not contacted by first keycap  1070 . In this manner, the sensors may provide the switching signal without any contact to the sensor. This offers less wear on the keyboard thereby decreasing the probability of breaking. Also, although the sensors are generally located in a central portion of the indentations, the sensors could be located in other regions of the indentations with corresponding apertures in similar regions. 
     Other embodiments having a conductive layer below the rear portion of the keyboard may be electrically connected to inserts positioned on the rear portion opposite the conductive layers. For example,  FIGS. 31-32  illustrate an embodiment of an enlarged portion of keyboard  1102  having first conductive layer  1110  and second conductive layer  1112  positioned below rear portion  1120  of keyboard  1102 . In some embodiments, conductive layer  1110  is a flexible layer previously described. In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 31-32 , conductive layer  1110  is formed from PCB material. The conductive layers may electrically connect to inserts positioned on rear portion  1120  opposite the conductive layers.  FIG. 31  illustrates conductive layer  1110  electrically connected to first insert  1114  and second insert  1116  positioned in first indentation  1104  and second indentation  1106 , respectively. First insert  1114  and second insert  1116  may perform any of several functions previously described, such as electrically connecting keys (located on the inserts) to internal components of an electronic device or electrically connecting to a switch. 
       FIG. 32  shows an isometric view of an enlarged portion of keyboard  1102  in  FIG. 31 , further illustrating first conductive layer  1110  on an opposite portion of rear portion  1120  as compared with first insert  1114  and second insert  1116 . Keyboard  1102  may include grooves configured to receive the inserts. For example, first groove  1118  is configured to receive first insert  1114 . First groove  1118  may be any shape corresponding to the shape of first insert  1114 . Also, in order to create sufficient space for a key assembly, first groove  1118  may have a depth similar to that of a thickness of first insert  1114  so that first insert  1114  is substantially co-planar, or flush, with rear portion  1120 .  FIG. 32  also shows a partial portion of second insert  1116  to show second insert  1116  electrically and mechanically connected to first conductive layer  1110 . Second insert  1116  may be electrically connected to first conductive layer  1110  by, for example, welding, soldering, or conductive adhesive. Also, in order to mechanically connect with second insert  1116 , material from rear portion  1120  may be removed (e.g., machining or cutting) to form first groove  1122 . First groove  1122  may generally have corresponding dimensions as that of first conductive layer  1110  such that first conductive layer  1110  is substantially co-planar with rear portion  1120 . In this manner, first conductive layer  1110  is positioned below rear portion  1120  but does not intrude on any internal space of the electronic device. It should be noted that first insert  1114 , when positioned in first groove  1118 , may be electrically and mechanically connected to first conductive layer  1110  in any manner similar to second insert  1116   
       FIG. 33  illustrates an isometric view showing an internal portion of top case  1124  having keyboard  1102  shown in  FIGS. 31 and 32 . Conductive layers  1126  are shown positioned in grooves of rear portion  1120 . For purposes of illustration, conductive layers  1126  are shown having a length such that conductive layers  1126  extend only through rear portion  1120 . However, conductive layers  1126  may have a greater length in order to extend to and electrically connect to an internal component. Also, conductive layers  1126  may connect to internal components in any manner previously described for connecting a conductive layer to an internal component. 
       FIG. 34  illustrates a flowchart  1200  showing a method for forming a top case of an electronic device, the top case formed from an aluminum substrate. In step  1202 , a first portion of the aluminum substrate is removed to define several indentations for a keyboard and an opening for a touch pad. In some embodiments, the several indentations include a first row of indentations having a first indentation and a second indentation. Generally, the indentations include a shape and size to receive keys for a keyboard. In some embodiments, the indentations are configured in rows. Also, in some embodiments, the indentations include square as well as rectangular shapes. Also, in some embodiments, the indentations (or the rear portion defining a surface of the indentations) do not include any apertures. In other embodiments, the indentations include an aperture. The aperture may allow a conductive layer previously described to extend through the aperture. Alternatively, the aperture may allow a switch (e.g., conductive pin) to pass through the aperture and extend into the indentation. In step  1204 , a second portion of the aluminum substrate is removed to define a lip portion extending around an outer peripheral portion of the aluminum substrate. In some embodiments, the second portion further defines part of a rear portion. Also, in some embodiments, material is removed in a manner such that a protrusion or protrusions are formed. The protrusions may be configured to receive a fastener that holds a substrate in place. In step  1206 , a third portion of the aluminum substrate is removed define a conduit below a rib positioned between the first indentation and the second indentation. In some embodiments, the aluminum substrate includes several ribs having several conduits, thereby allowing a conductive layer previously described to extend through the indentations as well as the conduits. 
     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 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: 20140808
Publication Date: 20171212
Grant Date: 20171212
Priority Date: 20140808
Inventors: LIGTENBERG CHRISTIAAN A.
SILVANTO MIKAEL M.
HOPKINSON RON A.
RUNDLE NICHOLAS ALAN
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H01H13/705", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/02", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/785", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2231/002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2223/036", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/702", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2223/04", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/86", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H11/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/88", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/79", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/88", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2231/002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/702", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/785", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/86", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/02", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/79", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2223/04", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2223/04", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/88", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/705", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2223/036", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2231/002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H11/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/88", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2231/002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2223/04", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2223/036", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/705", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/705", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/86", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/86", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0202", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2231/002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/705", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2223/036", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 55264269