PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11397473-B1
Application Number: US-201916426681-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B1

Title: Electrical key support membrane

Abstract:
Keyboards and other input devices are provided with membranes that extend under the keycaps or buttons. The membranes are flexible and can support conductive structures, traces, and electrical switch connections to enable effective key switches, lighting, and fluid-tightness for the keyboard. The flexible membrane is positioned near the keycaps to prevent ingress of fluids and debris into the lower portions of the key assemblies. In some cases, the flexible membrane also provides support for an interstitial layer that extends between keycaps.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A keyboard, comprising:
 a housing; 
 a controller connection; 
 a flexible membrane having a first layer portion including an outer side, a second layer portion including an inner side, and a set of conductive structures extending through the first layer portion and the second layer portion, the first and second layer portions forming a set of collapsible switches, each conductive structure of the set of conductive structures being electrically connected to the controller connection; 
 a collapsible dome positioned between the inner side of the second layer portion and the housing and including a portion movable between a first position out of contact with the inner side and a second position contacting the inner side and urging together at least two conductive structures of the set of conductive structures to actuate a switch of the set of collapsible switches; 
 a set of keycaps positioned on the outer side of the flexible membrane; 
 a set of keycap supports positioned on the inner side of the flexible membrane, the housing supporting the set of keycap supports. 
 
     
     
       2. The keyboard of  claim 1 , wherein the first layer portion includes a first conductive structure of the set of conductive structures, a second layer portion includes a second conductive structure of the set of conductive structures, and a spacer vertically separates the first conductive structure from the second conductive structure. 
     
     
       3. The keyboard of  claim 2 , wherein the flexible membrane is deformable to bring the first conductive structure into electrical communication with the second conductive structure. 
     
     
       4. The keyboard of  claim 2 , wherein the first layer portion and the second layer portion extend under multiple keycaps of the set of keycaps. 
     
     
       5. The keyboard of  claim 2 , wherein the first layer portion extends under multiple keycaps of the set of keycaps and the second layer portion extends under one of the multiple keycaps. 
     
     
       6. The keyboard of  claim 1 , wherein the flexible membrane is fluid-tight. 
     
     
       7. The keyboard of  claim 1 , wherein the flexible membrane comprises a light source electrically connected to a conductive structure of the set of conductive structures. 
     
     
       8. The keyboard of  claim 1 , wherein the flexible membrane comprises a vent aperture permitting air to be redistributed through or external to the flexible membrane. 
     
     
       9. The keyboard of  claim 1 , wherein the flexible membrane is substantially flat. 
     
     
       10. The keyboard of  claim 1 , wherein the flexible membrane comprises a set of locally raised portions corresponding to the positions of the keycaps of the set of keycaps.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) 
     This claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/733,549, filed 19 Sep. 2018, and entitled “ELECTRICAL KEY SUPPORT MEMBRANE,” the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to keyboards and input devices for computers and other electronic devices. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to flexible electrical structures used in keyboards. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Electronic devices use a variety of different input devices. Examples of such input devices include keyboards, computer mice, touch screens, buttons, trackpads, and so on. They may be incorporated into an electronic device or can be used as peripheral devices. The electronic device may be vulnerable to contaminants, such as dust or liquid, entering though openings or connections in or around one or more incorporated input devices or external input devices. The external input devices may themselves be vulnerable to contaminants entering through various openings or connections. The device may also implement lighting at the user interface. 
     Keyboards typically involve a number of moving keys. Liquid ingress around the keys into the keyboard can damage electronics. Residues from such liquids, such as sugar, may corrode or block electrical contacts, prevent key movement by bonding moving parts, and so on. Solid contaminants (such as dust, dirt, food crumbs, and the like) may lodge under keys, blocking electrical contacts, getting in the way of key movement, and so on. These devices can be undesirably expensive to make and assemble. 
     Thus, there are many challenges and areas for improvements in input devices. 
     SUMMARY 
     Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a keyboard having a housing, a controller connection to provide an electrical connection to a keyboard controller, a flexible membrane having a set of conductive structures, with each conductive structure of the set of conductive structures being electrically connected to the controller connection, a set of keycaps positioned on an outer side of the flexible membrane, and a set of keycap supports positioned on an inner side of the flexible membrane. The set of keycap supports can be supported by the housing. 
     In some embodiments, the flexible membrane can include a first layer portion having a first conductive structure of the set of conductive structures, a second layer portion having a second conductive structure of the set of conductive structures, and a spacer vertically separating a first conductive structure from the second conductive structure. The flexible membrane can be deformable to bring the first conductive structure into electrical communication with the second conductive structure, and the first layer portion and the second layer portion can extend under multiple keycaps of the set of keycaps. The first layer portion can extend under multiple keycaps of the set of keycaps, and the second layer portion can extend under one of the multiple keycaps. 
     The flexible membrane can be fluid-tight, and can have a light source electrically connected to a conductive structure of the set of conductive structures. The flexible membrane can have a vent aperture permitting air to be redistributed through or external to the membrane. The membrane can be substantially flat or can have a set of locally raised portions corresponding to the positions of the keycaps of the set of keycaps. 
     Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a button for an electronic device. The button can include a button cap and an elastic support layer attached to the button cap. The elastic support layer can have a set of conductive traces providing conductive paths across the elastic support layer. The button can also include a set of support structures supporting the elastic support layer and the button cap, wherein application of a force to the elastic support layer deforms the elastic support layer and enables electrical communication between two conductive paths in the set of conductive traces. 
     Application of the force can cause the two conductive paths to contact each other. Application of the force can also cause a bridge conductor to electrically contact the two conductive paths. The bridge conductor can be positioned on a collapsible dome. The set of support structures can have a collapsible dome configured to deform upon application of the force and a stabilizer configured to limit rotational movement of the button cap upon application of the force. The elastic support layer can have a collapsible dome portion. A flexible layer can be included that is positioned around a perimeter of the button cap, with the flexible layer being supported by the elastic support layer. The button cap can be positioned on an upper side of the elastic support layer. The button cap can be positioned on an underside of the elastic support layer. 
     Yet another aspect of the disclosure relates to a keyboard that includes a housing having a rigid web portion, a first flexible support layer having a lower portion and a raised portion, with the raised portion being raised relative to the lower portion and with the lower portion being attached to the rigid web portion of the housing, a second flexible support layer being attached to the raised portion of the first flexible support layer and being vertically spaced above and positioned over the lower portion, and a keycap positioned above the raised portion of the first flexible support layer. 
     Application of a force to the keycap can cause the keycap to travel and deform the first and second flexible layers without the travel being limited by the rigid web portion. The second flexible support layer can include a fabric material. A third flexible support layer and a keycap support can be included as well, wherein the third flexible support layer is positioned between the keycap support and the housing. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  shows an isometric view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 2  shows an isometric view of another electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 3  shows an exploded view of a key assembly shown at box  3  in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a non-exploded side section view of the key assembly of  FIG. 3 , as indicated by section line  4 - 4 . 
         FIG. 5  is an exploded view of a membrane according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 6  is a side section view of a key assembly incorporating the membrane of  FIGS. 3 and 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is an exploded view of a membrane according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 8  is a side section view of a key assembly having the membrane of  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 9  is a side section view of a key assembly of another embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 10  is a side section view of a key assembly of another embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 11  is an isometric view of a keyboard assembly of the embodiment of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIGS. 12-14  show side views of various membrane and keycap embodiments of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     The description that follows includes sample systems and apparatuses that embody various elements of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the described disclosure can be practiced in a variety of forms in addition to those described herein. 
     The present disclosure relates to keyboards and/or other input devices that include mechanisms that prevent and/or alleviate contaminant ingress, provide electrical switches, reduce the thickness of and the number of parts in the key assembly, and provide and distribute light through the keyboard. These mechanisms can include keyboard membranes or gaskets and structures such as pads, fabric sheets, skirts, elastomer or other bands. 
     Aspects of the disclosure relate to a membrane or other type of flexible layer to which keycaps or button caps are connected in a keyboard. The flexible membrane can limit or prevent ingress of fluids or debris to parts of the keyboard below the membrane. The membrane can be positioned between outer keycaps and inner portions of the keyboard such as inner keycaps, collapsible domes, stabilizers (e.g., a butterfly or scissor hinge mechanism), and base components (e.g., a substrate, base layer, housing, etc.). Fluid and debris that falls between the keycaps can be blocked and held by the membrane at a location where it can be more easily cleaned off or otherwise removed from the keyboard. The fluid and debris can also thereby be prevented from coming into contact with electrically charged portions of the keyboard or interfering with the function of domes, stabilizers, and other moving parts of the keyboard. 
     The membrane can also include electrically conductive material to form conductive structures, conductive paths, or circuitry on the surface of, or within, the membrane. Portions of the membrane can be operated as deformable switches that produce electrical signals in the manner traditionally provided by switches and traces on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). In some cases, domes or other deformable structures are attached to the membrane and comprise conductive portions that are configured to contact and enable electrical communication between portions of the conductive material of the membrane. Integrating the conductive material into the membrane can reduce the number of parts in the keyboard and can relocate switch structures away from a substrate. 
     The membrane can also include light sources and other light-distributing features such as light-emitting diodes (LED) and reflective or light-diffusive shapes and materials to provide lighting in and around the keycaps connected to or otherwise associated with the membrane. The light-emitting components can have their electrical connections established by the conductive structures in the membrane. The membrane can distribute the light through its thickness, through domes connected to the membrane, or with another diffuser or reflector attached to the membrane. Thus, the membrane can allow the keyboard to have its light sources positioned nearer to keycaps to improve their efficiency and to help direct the light to where it is most beneficial. 
     In some configurations, the membrane includes internal voids from which air can be redistributed throughout the membrane (or redistributed out of the membrane) when the membrane deforms. Thus, the membrane can be used to support or provide a variety of keyboard functions. 
     Additional embodiments, features, and details will be provided with reference to the figures.  FIG. 1  depicts an electronic device  100  including a keyboard  102 . The keyboard  102  includes keys or key assemblies with keycaps  103  or button caps that move when depressed by a user. The electronic device  100  can include one or more mechanisms that prevent or alleviate contaminant ingress into or through the keyboard  102 , such as ingress between the keycaps  103  and into a housing  104  of the electronic device  100 . Such mechanisms can include a flexible membrane extending across or underneath the keycaps  103 . Such contaminants can include liquids (e.g., water, soft drinks, sweat, and the like), solids (e.g., dust, dirt, skin particles, food particles, and the like), and any other small debris or foreign material. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates a tablet computer  200  connected to a keyboard  202 . The keyboard  202  is a peripheral device connected to the tablet computer  200  rather than being an integral part of the tablet computer  200 . The keyboard  202  can also include keycaps  203  and a housing  204  that are separate from, but attachable to, the tablet computer  200 . As explained below, the keycaps  203  can be positioned on top of (or, in some embodiments, underneath) a flexible membrane. 
     Although the electronic device  100  of  FIG. 1  is a notebook/laptop computer and a tablet computer  200  is shown in  FIG. 2 , it will be readily apparent that features and aspects of the present disclosure that are described in connection with the notebook computer and tablet computer  200  can be applied in various other devices. These other devices can include, but are not limited to, personal computers (including, for example, computer “towers,” “all-in-one” computers, computer workstations, and related devices) and related accessories, speakers, graphics tablets and graphical input pens/styluses, watches, headsets, other wearable devices, and related accessories, vehicles and related accessories, network equipment, servers, screens, displays, and monitors, photography and videography equipment and related accessories, printers, scanners, media player devices and related accessories, remotes, headphones, earphones, device chargers, computer mice, trackballs, and touchpads, point-of-sale equipment, cases, mounts, and stands for electronic devices, controllers for games, remote control (RC) vehicles/drones, augmented reality (AR) devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, home automation equipment, and any other electronic device that uses, sends, or receives human input. Thus, the present disclosure provides illustrative and non-limiting examples of the kinds of devices that can implement and apply aspects of the present disclosure. 
     The keyboard  102  can include a set of assembled components that correspond to each key. The assembly of these components can be referred to as a “stack-up” due to their substantially layered configuration.  FIG. 3  illustrates partial exploded view of an assembly  300  corresponding to one of the keys in keyboard  102 , as indicated by box  3  in  FIG. 1 . One or more assemblies  300  can be implemented in the keyboard  102 , such as one for each keycap  103  or button. Some of the parts of the assembly  300  can span multiple keys or can extend beyond the limits shown in  FIG. 3  in one or more directions, as indicated by jagged edge lines. For example, as explained herein, the base layer  304  and membrane  306  can extend across the underside of all of the keys in the keyboard  102 .  FIG. 4  shows a simplified section view of the keyboard assembly  300  in an assembled condition, as indicated by section line  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3 . Some parts are not shown in  FIG. 4  in order to provide clarity regarding the relationship between other parts. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 3-4 , a keyboard assembly  300  can include a keycap  103 , a first flexible support layer (i.e., an interstitial layer  302 ) positioned at least partially under and around the base of the keycap  103 , a second flexible support layer (i.e., a flexible membrane  306 , which may also be referred to as an elastic support layer) positioned under the interstitial layer  302 , a hinge mechanism (i.e., key stabilizer  308 ), a collapsible dome  310 , a dome support  312 , an adhesive layer  314 , a stiffening structure (e.g., a web  316 ), and a base layer  304 . 
     The keycap  103  can provide a surface against which the user can interface with the keyboard assembly  300 . Thus, the keycap  103  can be movable between an unactuated state at a first vertical position relative to the base layer  304  and an actuated state at a second vertical position relative to the base layer  304 . The keycap  103  can comprise a rigid material such as a hard plastic, metal, or ceramic material. In an example embodiment, the keycap  103  includes a glass or polymer. The keycap  103  can therefore include a glyph or symbol (not shown) on its surface. In some cases, the keycap  103  can be at least partially transparent or translucent, thus allowing light to be transferred through the keycap  103 . The light can be directed through or around a glyph or symbol of the keycap  103  in order to improve its contrast and readability. In some embodiments, light is directed through or around an outer perimeter of the keycap  103 . The keycap  103  can be positioned on an outer side (e.g., a top side) of the flexible membrane  306  or can be positioned on an inner side thereof (e.g., a bottom side). In some configurations, the keycap  103  can be embedded in the flexible membrane  306 . For example, the flexible membrane  306  material can be overmolded to the top of the keycap  103 . An overmolded membrane  306  can provide a seal around multiple sides of the keycap  103  and can help prevent the keycap  103  from being dislodged from the membrane  306  or being damaged. In other embodiments, the keycap  103  can be attached to the flexible membrane  306  by an adhesive material such as a glue, adhesive, or tape. In various cases, the keycap  103  can have a flat top surface or a dished or cylindrical “scooped” top surface. 
     In some embodiments, a keycap  103  is on the outer side of the flexible membrane  306  and a second keycap is positioned on the inner side thereof. The outer keycap can provide key feel/definition and the visual appearance of the key for the user, and the inner keycap can be configured to connect to the key stabilizer  308 , dome  310 , and any other components below the flexible membrane  306 . The keycap  103  can alternatively comprise a connection to the key stabilizer  308  through the flexible membrane  306  without use of a second or inner keycap. 
     The interstitial layer  302  can extend between adjacent keycaps  103  and can span the gaps (i.e., interstices) between the keycaps  103 . See  FIG. 4 . The interstitial layer  302  can comprise a flexible material such as fabric, rubber, silicone, flexible polymer (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)), HYTREL®, related materials, or combinations thereof. The interstitial layer  302  can therefore be referred to as a fabric layer or a first flexible layer. The material used in the interstitial layer  302  can be configured to be deflectable upon application of a force to a keycap  103  with which it is connected or against which it rests. Thus, the interstitial layer  302  can at least locally move along with a keycap  103  in a downward direction (e.g., toward web  316 ) when a vertically oriented force is applied to the keycap  103 . The interstitial layer  302  can be configured to be flexible enough that pressing one keycap  103  does not cause other nearby keycaps to significantly move as a result of the movement of the interstitial layer  302 . However, the interstitial layer  302  can also be rigid enough that it does not sag between the keycaps when they are in an unactuated state. 
     In some embodiments, the interstitial layer  302  is attached to the keycap  103 . The keycap  103  can be mounted to a top or inside surface of the interstitial layer  302  or the keycap  103  can be integrally formed with the interstitial layer  302 . For example, the keycap  103  can be adhered, co-molded, or overmolded with the interstitial layer  302 . Thus, the keycaps  103  and interstitial layer  302  can form a single layer or sheet extending across the keyboard. In other embodiments, the interstitial layer  302  is not attached to the keycap  103  or is omitted. If the interstitial layer  302  is not attached to the keycap  103 , it can be supported from below by the flexible membrane  306  to help position the interstitial layer  302  in contact with the underside of the keycaps  103 , even while the keycaps  103  move. 
     The flexible membrane  306  extends under the keycap  103  and interstitial layer  302 . The flexible membrane  306  can be flexible and deflectable in response to application of a downward force on the keycap  103 . Thus, the keycap  103  can contact the top of the flexible membrane  306  and deform part of the membrane  306  when a sufficient force is applied to the keycap  103 . The flexible membrane  306  can comprise a thin, flexible material such as HYTREL® from DUPONT™, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), rubbers, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), other thermoplastic materials, related flexible materials, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the flexible membrane  306  can comprise multiple materials, wherein portions of the flexible membrane  306  that are localized directly underneath hard keycaps  103  can comprise a relatively rigid material (e.g., PET), and portions between keycaps  103  (e.g., adjacent to lower portion  326 ) can comprise a relatively more flexible material (e.g., PET with reduced thickness, TPU, or a similar material). Using a more rigid material under the keycaps  103  can reduce the effects of fatigue caused by contact between the dome and the under-key portions of the flexible membrane  306 . 
     The membrane  306  can provide a fluid-tight barrier between an outer side/upper side  318  of the membrane  306  (i.e., the top side shown in  FIG. 3  facing toward the keycap  103 ) and an inner side/lower side thereof (i.e., the bottom side facing toward the base layer  304  opposite the outer side  318 ). The fluid-tight barrier can prevent ingress of air, water, and other fluids from the outer side  318  to the inner side. In some embodiments, the membrane  306  can be fluid-tight across the entire keyboard, such as being fluid-tight across the entire width of the membrane  306  or across the entire width that is located under the width of the keycaps. Specifically, the outer side  318  of the membrane  306  can be fluid-tight. The inner side can potentially include openings or vents, as explained below. 
     The flexible membrane  306  can support the interstitial layer  302  and keycap  103 . Thus, when the keycap  103  and the interstitial layer  302  move downward along the central axis  322  (see  FIG. 4 ), the flexible membrane  306  can keep the interstitial layer  302  in contact with the bottom of the keycap  103 . The flexible membrane  306  can therefore include a raised portion  324  that is positioned vertically higher than a lower portion  326 , and the raised portion  324  can deflect downward as the keycap  103  moves. The lower portion  326  can be positioned on the web  316  and can be attached to the web  316  to limit upward movement of the flexible membrane  306 . The flexible membrane  306  can be configured to be flexible enough to provide very little resistance to the movement of the keycap  103 . 
     The flexible membrane  306  can comprise conductive structures (e.g., conductive traces or wires) that extend through the flexible membrane  306  to the locations of each keycap  103 . The conductive structures can comprise an electrically conductive material, such as, for example, silver, copper, aluminum, other conductors, and combinations thereof. The conductive structures are described in greater detail in connection with  FIGS. 5-9  below. 
     The flexible membrane  306  can have conductive structures connected to a light source  320  positioned on or in the membrane  306 . The light source  320  can be a light-emitting diode (LED) or related electronic device configured to output light in response to an electrical signal. Thus, the conductive structures on or in the membrane  306  can provide power to the light source  320 . The light source  320  can be a directional light source such as, for example, a directional LED configured to emit light primarily in one direction or through a limited range of angles relative to a central axis extending through the light source  320 . In various embodiments, the light source  320  can emit light laterally into a side surface of the membrane  306  (e.g., into the lateral side of puck  504 ; see  FIGS. 4 and 6 ), laterally into the collapsible dome  310 , vertically into a bottom surface of the membrane  306  (see, e.g., light source  1020  of  FIG. 10 ), or at an angle toward the center of the keycap  103 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , the light source  320  can be positioned radially outward from the dome  310  relative to the central axis  322  and can therefore shine its light in a radially inward direction relative to the central axis  322 . In another embodiment, the light can be directed primarily parallel to the central axis  322 . The light source  320  can be positioned under the keycap  103  and can, in conjunction with the membrane  306  and any other structures into which the light shines, illuminate the bottom and/or perimeter of the keycap  103 , thereby improving the visibility of the outer limits of the keycap  103  or improving the visibility of a translucent glyph- or symbol-forming portion of the keycap  103 , especially in low-light environments. The surfaces of the membrane  306 , dome  310 , and any other nearby components can be configured to reflect or diffuse light in a desired direction (e.g., upward) or toward a border, glyph, or symbol of the keycap  103 . 
     Because the light source  320  is positioned on the flexible membrane  306 , the light source  320  can move with the flexible membrane  306 , thereby improving the consistency of the brightness of the light emitted through or around the keycap  103  as compared to conventional lighting that is positioned at or near the base layer  304 . The distance between the key glyph/key symbol/perimeter of the keycap  103  and the light source  320  can be consistent irrespective of the position of the keycap  103  relative to the base layer  304 . Additionally, because the light source  320  is located very close to the keycap  103 , the light can be more focused on its intended target (e.g., through the glyph) instead of having to be reflected or diffused through material to reach the target. Thus, the light source  320  can appear brighter or can be a less energy-consuming source of light than conventional keycap light sources. 
     The key stabilizer  308  can comprise mechanical hinge or related mechanism configured to stabilize the movement of the keycap  103  as it vertically travels through a movement cycle. The stabilization can limit or prevent the keycap  103  from rotating when an off-center-oriented vertical force is applied to the top of the keycap  103  (e.g., a force applied laterally offset from, but parallel to, center axis  322 ). In some embodiments, the key stabilizer  308  keeps the keycap  103  substantially parallel to the base layer  304  or another horizontal plane when the keycap  103  is also oriented horizontally in its unactuated or neutral state. Thus, the key stabilizer  308  can include a scissor mechanism, butterfly mechanism, or related device used to stabilize keys in keyboards. The key stabilizer  308  can comprise a rigid material and can be optically translucent or transparent to help distribute light throughout the underside of the keycap  103 . 
     The key stabilizer  308  can include features configured to attach to the keycap  103 . For example, the keycap  103  can have structures (e.g., hooks and clamping features, not shown) configured to clip or lock onto corresponding structures (not shown) on the key stabilizer  308 . The structures connecting the key stabilizer  308  and the keycap  103  can extend through the flexible membrane  306  if the keycap  103  is positioned on the upper side of the membrane  306 . Any openings through the flexible membrane  306  that facilitate that connection can be sealed and fluid-tight. In some configurations, such as when the keycap  103  or an inner keycap is positioned under the membrane  306 , these connecting structures do not extend through the membrane  306 . 
     The collapsible dome  310  can provide resistance and tactile feedback to the user when the keycap  103  is pressed. The collapsible dome  310  can also be used to bias the keycap  103  vertically upward when the keycap  103  has been at least partially depressed. Thus, the collapsible dome  310  can comprise a compressible or collapsible material configured to resiliently change shape upon application of a force to the dome  310 . The material can comprise rubber, silicone, another related flexible material, and combinations thereof. 
     In some embodiments, the collapsible dome  310  can include a conductive material configured to permit electrical current to flow through the dome  310 . See, e.g.,  FIG. 9  and its related descriptions herein. The collapsible dome  310  can have a top surface contacting or attached to the membrane  306  and a bottom surface contacting or attached to the base layer  304 . 
     The dome support  312  can provide a structure within which the dome  310  is positioned. The dome support  312  can be positioned above the base layer  304  and can substantially surround the dome  310 . In some embodiments, the dome support  312  is affixed or coupled directly to the membrane  306  or base layer  304 . An adhesive layer  314  can be positioned between the dome support  312  and the structure(s) to which it is attached. The dome support  312  can be located within the key stabilizer  308  and can include features for coupling to the key stabilizer  308 . For example, a butterfly mechanism key stabilizer can be pivotally coupled to the dome support  312  along the central pivot axes of the butterfly mechanism. The dome support  312  can comprise a rigid material and can be optically translucent or transparent to help distribute light underneath the keycap  103 . In some embodiments, the dome support  312  is omitted and/or the key stabilizer  308  can be pivotally connected to connective structures formed in or directly coupled to the base layer  304 . 
     The web  316  is a rigid structure positioned below the keycap  103  and flexible membrane  306 . The web  316  can be a separate part attached to the base layer  304  or can be integrally formed with the base layer  304  (e.g., a molded part of the base layer  304  or a shape formed in a milled base layer  304 ). The web  316  can provide structural stiffness to the base layer  304  and can be a structure that other components are mounted to, such as the flexible membrane  306 . The web  316  can be configured with a height so that its top surface is positioned below the vertical position of the bottom of the keycap  103  when the keycap  103  is at its most actuated/deflected position relative to the base layer  304 . In this manner, the web  316  does not come into contact with the keycap  103  even when the keycap  103  is completely pressed. As such, the web  316  does not limit the movement of the keycap  103  or cause the keycap  103  to have a hard and limiting “bottom-out” against the web  316 . The maximum deflection position of the keycap  103  can be above the top surface of the web  316 . When using the keycap  103  normally, the user may not feel the rigid web  316 , even when the user&#39;s finger presses down between two keycaps  103 . Accordingly, this arrangement can help limit the hard, jarring feeling of a user&#39;s finger hitting a rigid, unyielding surface while typing. 
     Some conventional keyboards have a rigid web between each keycap, so the web needs to be positioned well below the tops of the keycaps to prevent the user from hitting the web when their finger hits a keycap near its edge. However, this can leave open space between the top edges of the keycaps, so debris and material can fall between, and potentially under, the keycaps. The embodiments of the present disclosure provide an interstitial layer  302  and/or membrane  306  that are near the top surface of the keycap  103  and that can block or limit debris and fluids from penetrating between adjacent keycaps  103 . The interstitial layer  302  and membrane  306  can be compliant when pressed by a finger, so the problem of having rigid structures between the keycaps  103  and near the top of the keycaps  103  can be alleviated or avoided. 
     The base layer  304  can be a housing or other rigid base structure of the keyboard assembly  300 . The base layer  304  can also comprise a substrate such as, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB) having conductive traces and other electrical components. In some embodiments, the light source  320  is positioned on the base layer  304  and light from the light source is directed up into the membrane  306  and redistributed laterally through the membrane into and around the keycap  103 . In some embodiments, the base layer  304  includes brackets for retaining a key stabilizer  308  to the base layer  304 . 
       FIGS. 5 and 6  illustrate additional detail about the embodiment of the flexible membrane  306  shown in  FIGS. 3-4 .  FIG. 5  is a partially exploded view of the flexible membrane  306 , and  FIG. 6  is a schematic section view taken from Box  6  in  FIG. 4 .  FIGS. 5 and 6  are not to scale and do not show all parts in order to provide greater clarity. 
     The flexible membrane  306  can comprise a first layer  500  and a second layer  502 . The second layer  502  can comprise a set of flexible discs or pucks  504  configured to be individually attached to the bottom surface of the first layer  500 . 
     The first layer  500  can comprise a set of conductive structures  506 , and the pucks  504  each comprise one or more conductive structures  508 . The second layer  502  can alternatively include a sheet of material laterally interconnecting the pucks  504  to each other without covering the conductive structures  508 ,  522  in the pucks  504 . The conductive structures  506  of the first layer  500  are in electrical communication with a controller connection  510  which provides an electrical connection to a controller (e.g., a processor or keyboard controller configured to receive switch signals and/or to send keycodes to a computer or other electronic device). 
     The first layer  500  can comprise a flexible, unitary, fluid-tight material to provide the fluid-tightness described in connection with  FIGS. 3-4 . The conductive structures  506  can be positioned on a surface of, or extend within or through, the first layer  500  to provide continuous conductive traces or leads, similar to traces in a PCB. As shown in  FIG. 6 , the conductive structure  506  is located on the bottom surface of the first layer  500  in this embodiment. In some embodiments, the first layer  500  can have a thickness between about 25 microns and about 200 microns, and in some cases the first layer  500  can have a thickness of about 50 microns. The conductive structures  506  can be flexible so that flexure of the first layer  500  does not break or disable electrical communication through the conductive structures  506 . 
     The first layer  500  can comprise a set of attachment points  512  on its bottom surface where the pucks  504  of the second layer  502  are attached. Each attachment point  512  can have its own unique conductive structure  506 , or, as shown in  FIG. 5 , a single conductive structure  506  can pass through or over multiple attachment points  512 . Each puck  504  can be attached to a unique attachment point  512  at the upper surface of the puck  504 , such as at the upper surface of the puck  504  and around the top perimeter of the puck  504 . Each attachment point  512  can correspond to the location of a key in the keyboard. Thus, the attachment points  512  can be distributed in a keyboard layout across the first layer  500 . The conductive structure  506  through each attachment point  512  can be configured to align with the conductive structures  508  in the pucks  504 . 
     The pucks  504  can comprise a cup-like shape wherein a horizontal lower membrane  514  is connected to a hollow, vertical, cylindrical spacer  516 . The lower membrane  514  and spacer  516  can be separate parts or can be formed integrally as a single piece. Similarly, the pucks  504  can each be a separate piece from the first layer  500  or can be an integral part of the first layer  500 . The pucks  504  and first layer  500  can comprise PET or a similar material with low compressibility and high resistance to the effects of compression fatigue. 
     The pucks  504  can comprise a flexible material similar to, or the same as, the first layer  500 . In some embodiments, the lower membrane  514  can have a thickness between about 25 microns and about 200 microns, and in some cases the lower membrane  514  can have a thickness of about 50 microns. In some embodiments, the spacer  516  can have a thickness between about 75 microns and about 150 microns, and in some cases the spacer  516  can have a thickness of about 75 microns. The spacer  516  can comprise a flexible material such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), a thermoplastic polymer (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate (PET)), related material, and combinations thereof. 
     When the puck  504  is attached to the first layer  500 , an internal void  518  can be formed. See  FIG. 6 . The void  518  is between the conductive structure  506  on the first layer  500  and the conductive structure  508  on the lower membrane  514 . The void  518  can provide a non-conductive air gap between the conductive structures  506 ,  508  so that there is no electrical communication between the conductive structures  506 ,  508  when they are in the unactuated or neutral condition shown in  FIG. 6 . 
     When a downward force is applied to the keycap  103 , pressure is applied to the flexible membrane  306  that causes the membrane  306  to deform. The pressure can come from a combination of the downward movement of the entire membrane  306  (as the keycap moves  103 ) and localized pressure against the lower membrane  514  of the puck  504 . The localized pressure can be applied by a portion of the dome  310  (e.g., localized around directional arrow  520  in  FIG. 6  upon collapse or deformation of the dome  310 ). This pressure against the lower membrane  514  can urge the conductive structures  506 ,  508  together, thereby producing an electrical path through a first conductive structure  506  of the first layer  500  and into the conductive structure  508 . The conductive structure  508  is electrically connected to another conductive structure  522  in the spacer  516  that is connected to another conductive structure  506  of the first layer  500 . Thus, conductive structures in the flexible membrane  306  can form a collapsible switch that is actuated upon application of a downward force on the keycap  103 . All of the electrical connections for the switch can be located within the membrane  306  and can extend just below the keycap  103  and above the set of support structures below the membrane  306  (e.g., the key stabilizer  308 , dome  310 , and dome support  312 ). 
     In some embodiments (not shown), the dome  310  can be integrally formed with the puck  504 . Thus, portions of the dome can deform to engage other portions of the dome (e.g., portions corresponding to the lower membrane  514 ) that bear conductive structures (e.g.,  508 ). 
     The puck  504  can have a lateral width less than the width W of the keycap  103 , as shown in  FIG. 4 . In some embodiments, the puck  504  comprises a lateral width about equal to or greater than the lateral width W of the keycap  103 . This configuration can be beneficial when the puck  504  is used to distribute light under the keycap  103  since the puck  504  can therefore help distribute light around the perimeter of the keycap  103  more effectively. 
       FIGS. 7 and 8  illustrate another embodiment of a flexible membrane  700  that can be used in the keyboard assembly  300 .  FIG. 7  shows an exploded view of a portion of the membrane  700 , and  FIG. 8  shows a section view comparable to  FIG. 6 . The flexible membrane  700  can comprise a first layer  702  and a second layer  704 . Each of these layers  702 ,  704  can have a construction and material makeup comparable to the first layer  500 , wherein they comprise sets of conductive structures  706 ,  708 . The flexible membrane  700  can also include a spacer layer  710  positioned between the first and second layers  702 ,  704 . The spacer layer  710  can include a set of openings or apertures  712  corresponding to the position of each key in a keyboard. Thus, the apertures  712  can be distributed in a keyboard layout across the flexible membrane  700 . Each of the first and second layers  702 ,  704  can have corresponding attachment areas  714 ,  716  where the apertures  712  of the spacer layer  710  are located. 
     The flexible membrane  700  can have the first layer  702  attached to (e.g., adhered or bonded to) the spacer layer  710 , and the spacer layer  710  can be attached to the second layer  704 . Accordingly, due to the presence of the apertures  712 , a set of voids  718  can be formed within the membrane  700 , between the first layer  702  and the second layer  704 , comparable to the voids  518  of membrane  306 . See  FIG. 8 . The conductive structures  706 ,  708  can be configured to vertically cross-over each other where they are spaced apart by the voids  718 . 
     The voids  718  can lie between the conductive structures  706 ,  708  where the keycaps  103  are located, and the voids  718  can be collapsed by deflection of the first and second layers  702 ,  704  toward each other. For example, the a portion of the dome  310  can be displaced relative to the flexible membrane  700  such that it applies localized pressure to second layer  704  in direction  720 , as indicated in  FIG. 8 , to cause contact and electrical communication between the conductive structures  706 ,  708  within the void  718 . In some embodiments, a conductive structure  706  of the first layer  702  can be electrically connected to a conductive structure  708  of the second layer  704  by a bridging conductive structure  722  extending through the spacer layer  710 . 
     In some embodiments, the dome  310  can be integrally formed with the second layer  704 . Thus, the second layer  704  can include collapsible domes rather than the domes  310  being attached to the bottom surface of the second layer  704 . 
     A flexible membrane  700  having multiple layers (i.e.,  702 ,  704 ,  710 ) can be beneficial due to providing multiple layers on which the conductive structures  706 ,  708  can be positioned. The conductive structures  706  on the first layer  702  can extend across the same vertical positions as the conductive structures  708  on the second layer  704 , so the number of jumpers, bridges, or similar structures in the membrane  700  can be reduced or eliminated. All of the conductive structures  706 ,  708  can be in electrical communication with a controller connection. Additionally, the conductive structures  706 ,  708  (and  506 ) can include diodes, resistors, and related electrical components commonly found in keyboards (not shown) in order to assist in uniquely identifying each key press differently at the controller or to limit back-fed signals through the flexible membrane. 
     In some embodiments, the membrane  700  can comprise a single layer combining the three above-indicated layers  702 ,  704 ,  710  into one. For example, the first and second layers  702 ,  704  and the spacer layer  710  can all be an integral part of each other and a single piece of material rather than being multiple layers attached to each other. For example, the membrane can comprise the single layer, and voids (similar to  718 ) can be formed within the thickness of the single layer between locations where traces (e.g.,  706 ,  708 ) can intersect or contact upon collapse of the voids. In another example, the spacer layer  710  and second layer  704  can be omitted, and the conductive structures  706  can extend across on a single membrane  702  with a set of jumpers and insulating spacers that can separate the conductive structures  706  similar to how the voids  718  separate conductive structures  706 ,  708 . The insulating spacers can hold an air gap between the conductive structures  706  that can be closed when a force is applied to the membrane  700  at the spacers. These insulating spacers can be configured to withstand stretching. In some configurations, the insulating spacers are resilient and do not break or lose their electrical insulating properties upon being deformed in a switch press event. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a section view of another embodiment of a flexible membrane  900 . In this case, the membrane  900  comprises a single layer  902  having conductive structures  904 ,  906  separated from each other by a gap  908  on the layer  902 . A dome  910  is attached to the membrane  900  and comprises a conductive portion  912 . In this embodiment, when the key is depressed at the dome  910 , the dome  910  collapses resulting in relative displacement of the conductive portion  912  toward the conductive structures  904 ,  906  in direction  920 . Upon sufficient deflection, the conductive portion  912  engages both conductive structures  904 ,  906  and thereby permits electrical communication between the conductive structures  904 ,  906 . Accordingly, the conductive portion  912  can close a circuit with the conductive structures  904 ,  906  and enable an electrical signal using the conductive structures  904 ,  906 . The flexible membrane  900  can be simpler and less costly to construct than other membranes because it only requires a single layer  902  of material and a set of domes  910 . 
     In various embodiments disclosed herein, the flexible membrane (e.g., membranes  306 ,  700 , and  900 ) can comprise internal voids (e.g., voids  518 ,  718 , and  918 ). When the membranes are deformed, air in the voids can be compressed due to the change in shape of the voids. The compression can provide resistance to the deformation of the membranes. 
     In some embodiments, the voids  518 ,  718 , and  918  are vented so that air can escape with little or no hindrance to the deformation. Thus, example venting features are shown in  FIGS. 6, 8 , and  9 , wherein a bottom or side vent opening  530 ,  532 ,  730 ,  732 ,  930  can allow air to escape the internal void through the bottom or side wall of the membrane or dome that forms a boundary for the internal void. Each internal void can comprise one or more of the vent openings shown in these figures or vent openings configured to serve a similar function. 
     The bottom and side vent openings  530 ,  532 ,  730 ,  732 ,  930  can be referred to as exit openings or atmosphere exit openings since they can be configured to vent air to the atmosphere external to and surrounding the keyboard assembly. Accordingly, air pushed out through an exit opening or atmosphere exit opening can be replaced by substantially different air when the membrane elastically returns to its unactuated or undeformed state and draws in air from atmosphere through the exit opening. The air in the internal voids is part of a system open to atmosphere external to the membrane/domes instead of being part of a closed pneumatic system. In some arrangements, the exit opening or atmosphere exit is positioned through the bottom or side of the membrane in order to preserve the fluid-tightness of the upper surface of the membrane. 
     In other embodiments, the vent opening  732  can be referred to as a distribution opening or closed distribution openings, wherein air exiting the internal void  718  is forced into other parts of the membrane or keyboard (e.g., to other internal voids in the membrane). The air in this case can be contained in a closed pneumatic system wherein air forced out of the internal voids  718  is replaced by air from within the same system. In some arrangements, the air can be pressed through an indirect or torturous path between different parts of the closed system. 
     In some embodiments, a hybrid system is implemented, wherein the membrane comprises a set of fluidly interconnected internal voids and at least one exit opening or atmosphere exit opening. Thus, the system can be designed with a mostly contained system of air that is still able to vent to atmosphere if needed. This can be advantageous when the membrane is moved between different atmospheric pressures so that the pressure within the membrane stays within predetermined limits. For example, the pressure in the voids can be maintained to avoid a low pressure situation where the voids collapse and cause unwanted electrical contact between conductive parts of the flexible membrane. 
     Another aspect of the disclosure includes methods for manufacturing flexible membranes described herein. In one embodiment, a sheet of flexible material (e.g., the material used in the first layer  500  or layers  702 ,  704 , or  900 ) is provided. The material can be generally flat with a single thickness. The material can be embossed into shapes (e.g., the raised portions shown in  FIGS. 4, 10, 11, 13, and 14 ). The embossed shapes can correspond to the various sizes and shapes of the keycaps  103  used with the membrane or the positions of an interstitial layer relative to a set of keycaps. 
     Next, conductive structures (e.g., structures  506 ,  706 ,  708 ) can be added to the embossed membrane. For example, conductive traces (e.g., silver traces) can be added to different parts of the membrane using a printing process. For instance, a three-dimensional inkjet can be used to add a matrix of conductive material to the outer surfaces of the membrane. The conductive structures can provide electrical communication between each key and a keyboard controller. In some embodiments, this process can be repeated for each layer in the membrane and then the membrane can be assembled. In other cases, the process can be performed after all of the layers of the membrane have previously been attached to each other. 
     In another embodiment, a flexible sheet of material (or a preassembled entire membrane) is provided, and the conductive structures can be added while the material is generally flat and unshaped. For example, an inkjet or screen printing process can apply conductive material as conductive traces to the surfaces of the flexible membrane. The sheet can then be re-shaped (e.g., embossed). The material used for the conductive structures can therefore be designed with flexibility or capability of elongation and bending in order to ensure that the conductive structures are not broken when the membrane is embossed. 
     In still another embodiment, the sheet of material can be pre-impregnated or coated with conductive material in an embossed or un-embossed configuration. An acid etching process, laser-etching process, or similar removal process can then be used to eliminate conductivity where it is not needed on the membrane, and the non-removed conductive structures can remain on the membrane afterward where they are needed. 
     In yet another embodiment, a molding process can be used to create the membrane. Conductive material (e.g., a decoration or in-mold film having conductive structures) can be applied to the inner surfaces of the mold. Afterward, the membrane material can be added to the mold so that the conductive structures are bonded to the membrane material when they are demolded. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates a section view of an alternate embodiment of a keyboard assembly  1000  comparable to keyboard assembly  300 . In this embodiment, parts having similar numbers correspond to their counterparts in  FIGS. 3-4  and can have similar features. The assembly  1000  can comprise a lower flexible membrane  1022  in addition to the upper flexible membrane  1006 . The lower flexible membrane  1022  can extend across the keyboard assembly  1000  below the dome  1010  and upper flexible membrane  1006 . The lower flexible membrane  1022  can be configured with raised portions  1024  that extend over the top of the web  1016 . Thus, the keyboard assembly  1000  can have the web  1016  directly attached to the base layer  1004  without having to break continuity of the lower flexible membrane  1022  for the web  1016  to extend through it. 
     The upper and lower flexible membranes  1006 ,  1022  can each have sets of electrically conductive structures running through them, and each of the flexible membranes  1006 ,  1022  can be used for different purposes in the keyboard assembly  1000 . For instance, the upper flexible membrane  1006  can be configured to provide support for the interstitial layer  1002  (e.g., in the manner explained above in connection with interstitial layer  302 ) and to support and provide electrical connections for a light source  1020  on the upper flexible membrane  1006 . The lower flexible membrane  1022  can include its own conductive structures configured to function as switches upon collapse of the dome  1010 , as described above in connection with the flexible membrane embodiments of  FIGS. 4-9 . 
     Accordingly, different flexible membranes can provide different supporting and electrical functions in the keyboard assembly  1000 . The upper membrane  1006  can be optimized to provide lighting and support for the interstitial layer  1002  since it is located closer to the keycap  1003  and interstitial layer  1002 , and the lower membrane  1022  can be optimized to provide switches for the keyboard assembly  1000  since it is closer to the base layer  1004  and can therefore be easier to connect to other electrical components in the lower section of the keyboard assembly  1000 . 
     One or both of the flexible membranes  1006 ,  1022  can prevent fluid penetration through the keyboard assembly  1000 . Thus, in embodiments where both membranes  1006 ,  1022  prevent fluid penetration, each can act as a backup layer of protection for the keyboard when the other fails. Additionally, the separate membranes can be optimized in size and thickness for their individual functions. If just one of the membranes  1006 ,  1022  supports lighting, its shape, thickness, and material composition can be optimized to enhance the diffusion or reflection of light from the light source  1020  to where it is desired. For example, it can comprise a transparent material while the other membrane  1006 ,  1022 , which does not serve a lighting distribution function, comprises an opaque material. 
     As shown in  FIG. 11 , at least one of the flexible membranes of the keyboard assembly  1000  (in this case, the lower flexible membrane  1022 ) can be arranged in a set of strips or rows  1100 ,  1102 ,  1104  across the base layer  1004  and the web  1016  of the keyboard. The rows  1100 ,  1102 ,  1104  can alternatively be configured as columns. 
     Each of the rows  1100 ,  1102 ,  1104  can provide its own conductive structures for the key assemblies it supports, and portions of the membrane  1022  are omitted between the rows  1100 ,  1102 ,  1104 . This configuration can be beneficial when the base layer  1004  and web  1016  need to be designed with increased stiffness because the membrane  1022  does not extend over portions of the web  1016 . Thus, those uncovered web portions (e.g., portions  1106 ) can be thickened relative to membrane-covered portions of the web  1016  (e.g., portions  1108 ) since there does not need to be extra space between the interstitial layer  1002  and the web portions  1106  for the membrane  1022 . 
       FIGS. 12-14  illustrate multiple embodiments showing alternate relationships between keycaps  103  and a flexible membranes  1200 ,  1300 ,  1400 . The flexible membranes  1200 ,  1300 ,  1400  can be one of the other flexible membranes disclosed herein (e.g., membranes  306 ,  700 ,  900 , and  1006 ). Thus, each of these flexible membranes  1200 ,  1300 ,  1400  can provide conductive structures, lighting, etc. 
     In  FIG. 12 , the flexible membrane  1200  comprises a flat top surface  1202  in an unactuated or neutral state. The keycaps  103  are placed on the flat top surface  1202  with spaces (e.g.,  1204 ) between each other. The keycaps  103  therefore have an offset height  1206  relative to the flat top surface  1202  that is substantially equal to the entire thickness of the keycap  103 . This can provide excellent key definition for the user since each keycap  103  is clearly spaced from its neighboring keys. This embodiment can also make the membrane  1200  easy to clean due to the wide spaces  1204  between keycaps  103 . 
     In  FIG. 13 , the flexible membrane  1300  comprises a set of recesses  1302  in its top surface  1304  in which the keycaps  103  are located. In this embodiment, the top surface  1304  of the membrane  1300  that lies between the keycaps  103  is nearly the same height as the height of the keycap  103  relative to the top surface of a recess  1302 . The top surfaces of the keycaps  103  can still be slightly raised relative to the top surface  1304  of the membrane  1300 . This embodiment can provide a relatively smooth travel surface of fingers sliding laterally across the top surface  1304  and keycaps  103 . Additionally, lighting can be directed close to the perimeters of the top surfaces of the keycaps  103 . This configuration can also provide additional space below the membrane  1300  since the top surface  1304  is raised relative to the recesses  1302 . 
     In  FIG. 14 , the flexible membrane  1400  can extend over the top surfaces of the keycaps  103 . This embodiment can be used to protect the keycaps  103  and to give the top surface of the keyboard a consistent material appearance and finish. Additionally, the feel of the surface of the keyboard can be more compliant and flexible since it is based on the material used in the flexible membrane  1400  rather than being based on the material used in the keycaps  103 . 
     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 intended 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: 20190530
Publication Date: 20220726
Grant Date: 20220726
Priority Date: 20180919
Inventors: WANG, PAUL X.
MATHEW, DINESH C.
HENDREN, KEITH J.
WU, SHAN
LANCASTER-LAROCQUE, SIMON R.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H01H2223/002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/036", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2215/02", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2213/014", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2213/01", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/82", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/704", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0202", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/82", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0202", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/703", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/036", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2233/07", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/7065", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/704", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2223/002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2219/036", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/703", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/82", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/83", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/7065", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2223/002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2233/07", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/704", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0202", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 82483878