DE102015204440A1 - Key for a key for a keyboard, method for producing a key module for a key for a keyboard and method for determining an operating state of a key for a keyboard - Google Patents

Abstract

A key module (120) for a key for a keyboard is presented. In this case, the key module (120) on a module base (230) and relative to the module base (230) along a key actuation axis movable in the module base (230) can be arranged or arranged key plunger (250). Also, the key module (120) has a donor device (260) formed on the key tappet (250) and a printed circuit board (240) with at least one electrical coil (270). Here, the printed circuit board (240) is receivable or received in the module socket (230) such that a main extension plane of the printed circuit board (240) extends along the key action axis of the key tappet (250).

Description

The present invention relates to a key module for a key for a keyboard, to a method of manufacturing a key module for a key for a keyboard, and to a method for determining an operating state of a key for a keyboard. In particular, the keyboard may be provided for inputting text in, for example, an office environment or control commands in, for example, a computer game environment.

Usual mechanical keys, in particular also so-called MX keys, can be used in addition to keyboards for offices and application in the so-called gaming area. Often it may be that a key module when operating exactly one signal or output with additional circuit boards or Hall sensors several signals. For a multiple signal output of such keys, for example, a coil can be arranged in a printed circuit board below a key module equipped with a magnet. By means of planar inductance, a multiple signal output can be possible by actuating the key module once.

The DE 100 11 085 A1 discloses a keyboard with evaluation of the stroke of a key. When actuating at least one key, a signal dependent on the stroke of the key is generated.

Against this background, the present invention provides an improved key module for a keyboard key, an improved method for producing a key module for a key for a keyboard, and an improved method for determining an operation state of a key for a keyboard according to the main claims. Advantageous embodiments will become apparent from the dependent claims and the description below.

According to embodiments of the present invention, in particular provided for a keyboard key button module can be provided or used, in particular by an extension of the key module to an integrated circuit board with electric coil or electric coil and a donor element on a key tappet of the module Multiple signal output based on capacitive damping can be enabled. Herein, a key stroke axis of a key stroke of a key operation may extend along a board main plane, or key operation may be made along a board main plane.

Advantageously, according to embodiments of the present invention, in particular, a key module with consistent precision can be provided with a long service life, wherein an additional external circuit board can be avoided. Thus, a so-called all-in-one key module can be provided. In particular, it can thus be avoided that a keyboard with an additional partial circuit board or a key module needs to be equipped with expensive Hall sensors. Therefore, cost and space can be saved, for example, to improve an accessory business. In addition to the efficient use of existing installation space in the key module, both a multiple signal output can be made possible and an advantageous evaluation method can be provided, by means of which reliable, precise and reliable conclusions can be drawn as to the type of actuation of the key or of the key module, in particular how deep or far the button is actually pressed or will.

A key module for a key for a keyboard, the key module having a module socket and a key tappet movably mountable in the module socket relative to the module socket along a key action axis, is characterized by a donor member formed on the key tappet and a printed circuit board at least one electrical coil, wherein the printed circuit board is receivable or received in the module base such that a main extension plane of the printed circuit board extends along the key action axis of the key presser.

The keyboard may have at least one key. The key may have a key module. Also, the key may include a key top which may be mechanically coupled to the key module. The key module may have a lid which may be connectable to the module base. Also, the key module may have a key top and additionally or alternatively a lid or integrally formed with a key top and additionally or alternatively a lid. The key module may be used in the field of computer game machine control, computer keyboard, in particular office, or the like. For control of computer games, for example, a key can be equipped as a so-called multi-signal output gaming key using the key module, in particular for walking, running and sprinting by means of a key. For the office area, equipping a key with the key module can, for example, enable scrolling through documents or web sites, wherein, for example, it is possible to scroll faster when the key is pressed completely than when the key is only partially depressed, etc. The module base can be formed from a plastic material, for example. in particular in one piece. Also, the module socket may represent a bottom element of the button module. In particular, the module base can be shaped like a dish or trough. Due to a geometry of the module socket, the key action axis may be defined. The key tappet may be movable relative to the module base upon actuation of the key along the key action axis. Here, the key tappet between a rest position and a fully actuated position can be continuously moved. The key tappet may for example be formed from a plastic material, in particular in one piece. The transmitter device can act in particular as an inductive actuator. The transducer device may comprise an electrically conductive material, in particular a ferromagnetic material. For example, the encoder device can be designed as a magnet, in particular as a permanent magnet. The circuit board may also be referred to as a circuit board, a substrate, a wafer, or a chip. In particular, the circuit board may be formed of silicon. The at least one electrical coil can be formed by electrically conductive tracks of the printed circuit board.

According to one embodiment, in a state of the key tappet arranged in the module base, the encoder device may be formed on a surface of the key tappet facing the printed circuit board. In this case, in at least one position of the key tappet relative to the module base, the encoder device can be arranged in a section of the key tappet which has a minimum distance from the printed circuit board. The transducer device may also be partially embedded in a material of the key tappet. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that a precise position determination of the key tappet relative to the module base is made possible because the encoder device and the at least one electrical coil are arranged at a reduced distance from one another.

Also, in a state of the printed circuit board accommodated in the module base, the at least one electrical coil can be arranged on a surface of the printed circuit board facing the key tappet. The surface may be a major surface of the circuit board. Electronic components can also be arranged on the printed circuit board, wherein the electronic components can be arranged on a surface of the printed circuit board facing away from the surface bearing at least one electrical coil. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that the at least one electrical coil can be arranged facing the key tappet and in particular the encoder device, so that a detection accuracy in determining a relative position of the key tappet relative to the module base can be increased upon actuation of the key.

Furthermore, the printed circuit board may comprise a plurality of electrical coils. Here, the coils may be arranged in a row along the key action axis of the key tappet. In this case, the plurality of electric coils can be strung along a straight or curved line. Also, the coils may be arranged in a plurality of rows along the key action axis of the key tappet. In other words, at least two electric coils may be arranged in at least one row along the key action axis of the key tappet. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that when determining the position of the key tappet relative to the module base, a measurement accuracy can be increased since more measuring points can be generated and thus measured.

In addition, the at least one electrical coil can be designed to generate an alternating magnetic field in response to an applied electrical alternating signal. In this case, a characteristic of the electrical alternating signal can be dependent on a position of the transducer device relative to the at least one electrical coil. The electrical alternating signal may be an alternating voltage. The transducer device may be configured to interact inductively with the at least one electrical coil. In this case, the position may vary in an actuation-related movement of the key tappet relative to the module base along the key action axis. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that an exact position determination of the encoder device relative to the at least one electrical coil is made possible because the encoder device is movable along a coil plane.

The printed circuit board may also have an evaluation device which is designed to evaluate the characteristic of the electrical alternating signal which is dependent on the position of the transducer device relative to the at least one electrical coil, in order to determine the position of the transducer device relative to the at least one electrical coil. The evaluation device can be arranged on a surface of the printed circuit board facing away from the surface carrying the at least one electrical coil. The position of the transducer device relative to the at least one electrical coil can in this case correlate with a position of the key tappet relative to the module base. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that a key operation can be accurately determined, especially within the key module.

In particular, the module base may have a receiving section arranged adjacent to a movement region of the key tappet. Here, the receiving portion may be formed to receive the printed circuit board. The receiving portion may be formed for receiving the printed circuit board. Also, the receiving portion may be preformed and usable for receiving the printed circuit board. On the circuit board, a lighting device for illuminating the button can also be arranged. Such an embodiment has the advantage that space within the key module can be used to hold the circuit board or already existing space can be used in the key module for receiving the circuit board. Thus, an integrated arrangement of a printed circuit board in a key module can be achieved, wherein a space-saving accommodation of the printed circuit board can be realized within the module base.

According to one embodiment, the module base may have a plurality of through openings. In this case, the passage openings may be formed to allow electrical contacting of the circuit board. The passage openings can be formed in a receiving section arranged in the module base, in which the circuit board can be received. The module base may in particular have at least three passage openings. In particular, the passage openings may be arranged on a bottom section of the module base. Such an embodiment has the advantage that the printed circuit board can be connected in a simple way signal-transmitting capability with an interface of the keyboard.

In this case, the circuit board having a plurality of connection elements for electrically contacting the circuit board. In this case, the connecting elements can be designed to extend through the passage openings in a state of the printed circuit board arranged in the module base. The connection elements can be designed as connection pins or the like. In particular, the printed circuit board can have at least three connection elements, with two connection elements for current conduction and one connection element for signal propagation being able to be provided. The at least one electrical coil can be acted upon via two of the connection elements with an electrical alternating signal. Such an embodiment has the advantage that a control and contacting of the circuit board can be realized in a reliable manner.

Furthermore, the key module may have an abutment device which can be arranged or arranged in the module base and which is designed to exert a counterforce on the key tappet during movement of the key tappet along the key actuation axis relative to the module base. In this case, the counterforce may vary depending on a position of the key tappet relative to the module base. In particular, the counterforce can increase with increasing actuating travel. The stop means may comprise at least one elastic means. In particular, the stop device may be formed from rubber, plastic or metal. For example, the stop device may comprise a rubber mat, at least one spring, in particular a compression spring, or the like. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that a haptic or tactile feedback of the actuating travel is made possible.

A keyboard may have at least one key, wherein the key may comprise an embodiment of the aforementioned key module. The key may also have a key top, which may be mechanically coupled to the key module, in particular the key tappet. The key module may have a lid which may be connectable to the module base. Also, the key module may have a key top and additionally or alternatively a lid or integrally formed with a key top and additionally or alternatively a lid.

A method of manufacturing a button module for a key for a keyboard is characterized in that the method comprises a step of providing a module socket, a key post moveable relative to the module socket along a key action axis movably in the module socket, and a circuit board having at least one electrical coil A step of forming a transducer device on the key tappet, a step of receiving the printed circuit board in the module base such that a main extension plane of the printed circuit board extends along the key action axis of the key tappet, and having a step of placing the key tappet in the module base.

By executing the method, an embodiment of the above key module for a key for a keyboard can be provided. In the arranging step, the key tappet may be arranged in the module base such that the key tappet is movable relative to the module base along the key action axis. The forming step may also be performed prior to the providing step.

According to one embodiment, in the step of forming, the transducer device can be applied to the key tappet by means of a cohesive, non-positive and additionally or alternatively frictional connection. additionally or alternatively, in the recording step, the printed circuit board can be fastened in the module base by means of a cohesive, non-positive and additionally or alternatively frictional connection. In particular, in the step of molding, the transducer means may be sprayed, glued or potted to the key tappet. In the step of picking up the printed circuit board in the module base can be glued in particular. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that both the transducer device and the printed circuit board can be fastened securely and reliably and can be arranged by means of suitable processes in each case.

A method for determining an actuation state of a key for a keyboard, which method is executable in connection with an embodiment of the aforementioned key module, is characterized in that the method comprises a step of applying an alternating electrical signal to the at least one electrical coil magnetic alternating field to produce, wherein a characteristic of the alternating electrical signal from a position of the transducer device relative to the at least one electric coil is dependent, and a step of evaluating the dependent on the position of the transducer relative to the at least one electric coil characteristic of the alternating electrical signal to determine the position of the transducer device relative to the at least one electrical coil to determine the actuation state of the button.

The method may be advantageously carried out in conjunction with or using an embodiment of the aforementioned key module to determine an actuation state of a key for a keyboard. The operation state may represent an operation depth or operation distance along the key operation axis. In other words, the operating state may represent a distance of relative movement of the key tappet relative to the module base along the key action axis. Possible actuation states may include an idle state, a fully actuated state, and a plurality of intermediate states between the idle state and the fully actuated state. In an idle state, an actuation depth or actuation distance may be zero. In the evaluation step, a change in the electrical alternating signal caused by inductive eddy current damping during key actuation can be evaluated. In particular, the step of evaluating may be performed using amplitude demodulation or frequency demodulation. When a plurality of electrical coils arranged along the key action axis are arranged on the circuit board, the step of evaluating using the Gaussian normal distribution may be carried out to determine the position of the encoder relative to the at least one electrical coil.

According to one embodiment, the method may include a step of providing an output signal dependent on the particular operating state of the key. For example, a first output signal may be provided when the actuation state corresponds to a fully actuated state of the button at maximum actuation depth. In this case, an actuating depth-dependent variable, second output signal can be provided when the actuation state corresponds to a partially actuated state of the key. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that on the basis of information, a value, etc., of the output signal, it can be seen which operating state the key has, ie. H. how far, strong or deep she is pressed.

The invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:

1 a schematic representation of a keyboard according to an embodiment of the present invention;

2A to 3C perspective views of a key module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

4 a schematic representation of a key module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

5 and 6 schematic diagrams of printed circuit boards according to embodiments of the present invention;

7 a flowchart of a method of manufacturing according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

8th a flow chart of a method for determining according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In the following description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, the same or similar reference numerals are used for the elements shown in the various figures and similarly acting, wherein a repeated description of these elements is omitted.

1 shows a schematic representation of a keyboard 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The keyboard 100 has two buttons by way of example 110 and 115 on. A first key 110 has a button module 120 on. A second button 115 has another button module 125 on. Here are the key module 120 and the other button module 125 for example, identical. For the sake of clarity, only the key module will be described below 120 continue running. The key module 120 is described below with reference to the 2A to 6 further described.

At the keyboard 100 For example, it is a common computer keyboard for inputting alphanumeric characters, as well as special characters and control commands, or a keyboard for an input device for computer game control commands. According to one embodiment, the keyboard 100 also more than the two buttons 110 and 115 as symbolically indicated by three dots as placeholders, for example three or more keys, each key being a key module like the key module 120 can have. Alternatively, the keyboard 100 also have only one key, such as the key 110 with the key module 120 ,

2A shows a perspective view of a button module 120 according to an embodiment of the present invention for a key of a keyboard. At the key module 120 it is the key module of the first key and / or the second key 1 or a similar button module. The key module 120 is in 2A displayed in an unactivated or hibernate state. The key module 120 is designed to carry a key top of the key or mechanically couple. For example, the key module 120 be referred to as a so-called MX key module.

The key module 120 has a module socket 230 or a floor element. The module socket 230 is essentially trough-shaped or trough-shaped. Here is the module socket 230 for example, formed from a plastic material. The module socket 230 is designed to be a key tappet of the key module 120 along a key action axis relative to the module socket 230 movable to accommodate or arrange. According to the in 2A illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the module socket 230 Further, a receiving portion 232 for receiving a printed circuit board. The recording section 232 is adjacent to a range of motion in the module socket 230 held key tappet arranged.

Also, the key module assigns 120 a circuit board 240 on that in the module socket 230 is included. Specifically, the circuit board 240 in the recording section 232 of the module socket 230 added. In particular, the circuit board 240 in the receiving section 232 attached by gluing. The circuit board 240 has a first main surface 241 and one of the first main surface 241 turned away, second main surface 242 on. The first main surface 241 the circuit board 240 is here an edge portion of the module socket 230 facing. At the first main surface 241 are according to the in 2A shown embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of electronic components 243 applied, of which in the illustration for reasons of clarity, only an electronic component 243 is provided with reference numerals. At the second main surface 242 indicates the circuit board 240 at least one electric coil. The at least one electrical coil is due to the presentation in 2A covered. Furthermore, the circuit board 240 a plurality of merely exemplary four connection elements 244 . 245 . 246 and 247 or Leiterplattenkontaktpins or contact pins for electrically contacting the circuit board 240 on. On the at least one electrical coil and the connection elements 244 . 245 . 246 and 247 will be discussed in detail below.

Furthermore, the key module has 120 a key tappet 250 or plunger on. The key tappet 250 is essentially elongated. For example, the key tappet 250 molded from a plastic material. At a first end of the key tappet 250 a key top is connectable to the key, with a second end of the key tappet 250 in the module socket 230 is arranged. The key tappet 250 is at least partially within the module socket 230 arranged. Here is the key tappet 250 relative to the module socket 230 along a key action axis movable in the module base 230 arranged. In this case, the key actuation axis extends along a main extension axis of the key tappet 250 , In particular, the key action axis extends from the first end to the second end of the key tappet 250 , The module socket 230 and the key tappet 250 are configured to move the key tappet upon actuation of the key 250 relative to the module socket 230 to enable.

At the key tappet 250 is a donor institution 260 or formed an inductive actuator. According to the in 2A illustrated embodiment of the present invention is the encoder device 260 on one of the circuit board 240 facing surface 252 of the key tappet 250 formed. The circuit board 240 facing surface 252 of the key tappet 250 at which the donor institution 260 is formed, and the at least one electric coil-carrying, second main surface 242 the circuit board 240 are arranged opposite each other here. The circuit board 240 is so in the module socket 230 included that a main extension plane of the circuit board 240 along the key action axis of the key tappet 250 extends. During the actuation-related movement of the key tappet 250 relative to the module socket 230 may be the key tappet 250 on the circuit board 240 move along. In this case, the encoder device moves 260 in a region of the at least one electrical coil on the circuit board 240 ,

2 B shows the button module 120 out 2A from a different perspective. The key module corresponds to this 120 off the key module 2A , where the key module 120 is shown rotated in the representation that, for example, only an electrical coil 270 is shown. The electric coil 270 is on the circuit board 240 appropriate. Strictly speaking, the electric coil 270 on the second main surface of the circuit board 240 arranged. Thus, the electric coil 270 the key tappet 250 arranged facing. In other words, the electric coil 270 the circuit board 240 and those on the key tappet 250 molded encoder device 260 arranged facing each other. Thus, between the electric coil 270 on the circuit board 240 and the one on the key tappet 250 molded transmitter device 260 a space arranged. The gap may have a dimension corresponding to a minimum distance between the electrical coil 270 and the donor device 260 equivalent. The distance may be adjustable, predefined or the like.

3C shows that in 2A respectively. 2 B shown button module 120 from yet another perspective. The key module corresponds to this 120 off the key module 2A respectively. 2 B , where the key module 120 is shown rotated in the representation that the exemplary four connection elements 244 . 245 . 246 and 247 shown by way of example four through holes 234 . 235 . 236 and 237 or contact breakthroughs of the module socket 230 from the key module 120 protrude.

In the module socket 230 are the passages 234 . 235 . 236 and 237 in the region of the receiving portion of the module socket 230 formed. The passage openings 234 . 235 . 236 and 237 are designed to allow passage of the connection elements 244 . 245 . 246 and 247 to allow the circuit board. In 2C are the connection elements 244 . 245 . 246 and 247 or contact pins of the circuit board recognizable. This schematic diagram shows four connecting elements by way of example 244 . 245 . 246 and 247 and four through holes 234 . 235 . 236 and 237 , wherein in accordance with another embodiment, in each case three may be provided. For driving and contacting the circuit board, three connection elements and three through holes may be sufficient, with two connection elements can serve to conduct electricity and a connection element can serve for signal transmission. If four connection elements 244 . 245 . 246 and 247 and four through holes 234 . 235 . 236 and 237 are provided, according to one embodiment, for example, a populated on the circuit board light emitting diode or the like can be controlled.

3A shows the button module 120 out 2A . 2 B respectively. 2C without the module socket and from another perspective. Thus, from the key module 120 in 3A the circuit board 240 and the key tappet 250 shown. This is due to the presentation of the circuit board 240 the first main surface 241 with the electronic components 243 shown. Furthermore, the connection elements 244 . 245 . 246 and 247 the circuit board 240 located. From the key tappet 250 is also the surface 252 with the transducer device 260 shown. The second main surface of the circuit board 240 with the electric coil is hidden in this case due to the presentation.

3B shows the button module 120 out 3A from yet another perspective, in which the second main surface 242 the circuit board 240 with the electric coil 270 is shown. The on the key tappet 250 molded encoder device 260 is obscured here due to the presentation.

3C shows the button module 120 out 3A respectively. 3B from yet another perspective, in which both the donor institution 260 on the key tappet 250 as well as the electric coil 270 on the circuit board 240 are shown. Furthermore, the electronic components 243 on the circuit board 240 recognizable.

With reference to the 2A to 3C becomes the key module shown therein 120 according to an embodiment of the present invention, explained again in other words. In other words, in the 2A to 3C one with the circuit board 240 populated key module 120 or MX module. The illustrated button module 120 is shown without a housing cover. The key module 120 but may have a housing cover. The module socket 230 or housing bottom comprises the receiving portion 232 or another device for receiving an already equipped circuit carrier. This one for the circuit board 240 provided receiving section 232 or installation space can be formed to the circuit board 240 to attach or allow attachment of the same. For better stabilization of the printed circuit board 240 in the key module 120 is the circuit board 240 in the module socket 230 or the housing bottom element einklebbar. The example already existing through holes 234 . 235 . 236 and 237 or breakthroughs in the housing bottom of the module socket 230 can be used to contact the circuit board 240 be used. The connection elements 244 . 245 . 246 and 247 or Leiterplattenkontaktpins protrude in the mounted state thus through the housing bottom of the module base 230 and can be added to a circuit via a carrier board of the keyboard (not shown). On the key tappet 250 facing, second main surface 242 the circuit board 240 is the at least one electric coil 270 arranged. The key tappet 250 may be equipped with an electrically conductive material by adhesive bonding, spraying or the like to the transducer device 260 to mold. The donor device 260 until, for example, designed as a magnet. The donor device 260 can be at a minimum spatial distance to that with the at least one electrical coil 270 equipped printed circuit board 240 be arranged. Viewed abstractly, this acts with the donor device 260 equipped key rams 250 as inductive actuator. Upon actuation of the key and thus of the key tappet 250 will be on the key tappet 250 equipped transmitter device 260 relative to that with the at least one electrical coil 270 equipped printed circuit board 240 emotional. When moving the key tappet 250 Accordingly, an inductive eddy current damping of the at least one electrical coil 270 ,

4 shows a schematic representation of a key module 120 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In which 4 shown button module 120 For example, it is the key module from one of the 2A to 3C or a similar button module.

In the schematic representation of 4 are from the button module 120 the module socket 230 , the key plunger 250 , the key action axis 410 and an anchor device 480 shown. The stop device 480 is in the module socket 230 arranged. Furthermore, the stop device 480 designed to be at an actuation-related movement of the key tappet 250 along the key action axis 410 relative to the module socket 230 a drag on the key tappet 250 exercise. Thus, the key tappet 250 and the stop device 480 arranged so that the key tappet 250 when moving along the key action axis 410 towards a fully actuated position in abutment against the stopper 480 to get.

The through the anchor device 480 exercisable counterforce can depend on a position of the key tappet 250 relative to the module socket 230 vary. The stop device 480 Here is the at least one between the key tappet 250 and the module socket 230 inserted rubber mat or sponge rubber disc executable. The counterforce or thus an actuating force would then with increasing actuating travel along the key action axis 410 increase. Alternatively, the stop device 480 can be realized using compression springs with different actuating forces. Through the anchor device 480 It is possible, for example, to make faster movements in a computer game by a higher actuation force and / or counterforce on a finger of a user noticeable.

5 shows a schematic representation of a circuit board 240 a key module according to an embodiment of the present invention. At the in 5 shown printed circuit board 240 For example, it is the circuit board of the key module from one of 2A to 3C or a similar button module.

Here are in 5 the first main surface 241 , the second main surface 242 as well as at the second main surface 242 arranged electric coil 270 the circuit board 240 , the key action axis 410 and one at the first main surface 241 the circuit board 240 arranged evaluation 548 shown.

To the electric coil 270 an electrical alternating signal can be applied. The electric coil 270 is configured to generate an alternating magnetic field in response to the applied alternating electrical signal. A characteristic of the alternating electric signal changes depending on a position of the encoder means of the key tappet relative to the electric coil 270 , The evaluation device 548 is adapted to that of the position of the transducer device relative to the electrical coil 270 evaluate dependent characteristic of the electrical alternating signal. Thus, the position of the transducer device relative to the electrical coil 270 and thus an operating state of the button can be determined.

6 shows a schematic representation of a circuit board 240 a key module according to an embodiment of the present invention. At the in 6 shown printed circuit board 240 For example, it is the circuit board of the key module from one of 2A to 3C or a similar button module.

In 6 is a schematic plan view of the second main surface 242 the circuit board 240 shown. Also, the key action axis 410 in 6 drawn for illustration. On the circuit board 240 , specifically on the second main surface 242 the circuit board 240 , are the electric coil 270 and only by way of example two further electrical coils 672 and 674 arranged. Thus, the circuit board 240 the electric coil 270 as well as the two other electric coils 672 and 674 on. The electric coils 270 . 672 and 674 are here along the key action axis 410 strung on the second main surface 242 the circuit board 240 arranged. In particular, the electric coils 270 . 672 and 674 in a row along the key action axis on the circuit board 240 formed.

In other words, here are several electric coils 270 . 672 and 674 linear along the key action axis 410 on the circuit board 240 arranged. During a movement of the key tappet, an electrical coil is "damped" or influenced one after the other by the transmitter or inductor. The majority of coils 270 . 672 and 674 Serve here to increase a measurement accuracy, as more measuring points can be generated and thus measured. In particular, from such measuring points which deviate from zero, it is possible to construct an approximated bell curve whose vertex can represent an evaluation result of a path signal.

7 shows a flowchart of a method 700 for manufacturing according to an embodiment of the present invention. By performing the procedure 700 is the key module from one of the 2A to 3C or a similar key module can be produced. Thus, it is in the process 700 a method for producing a key module for a key for a keyboard.

The procedure 700 has a step 710 the provision of a module base, a relative to the module base along a key actuation axis movable in the module base can be arranged key plunger and a circuit board on which at least one electrical coil is arranged. Also, the procedure assigns 700 one step 720 forming a transducer device on the key tappet. Further, the method has 700 one step 730 of receiving the printed circuit board in the module socket. It is in the step 730 of picking up the printed circuit board in the module base so that a main plane of extension of the printed circuit board extends along the key action axis of the key presser. In addition, the procedure points 700 one step 740 arranging the key tappet in the module socket.

8th shows a flowchart of a method 800 for determining according to an embodiment of the present invention. The procedure 800 is executable to determine an operating state of a key for a keyboard. Here's the procedure 800 in conjunction with or using a key module from one of 2A to 3C or a similar key module executable.

In one step 810 The application is in the process 800 an electrical alternating signal is applied to the at least one electrical coil to generate an alternating magnetic field. A characteristic of the electrical alternating signal is variable depending on a position of the encoder device relative to the at least one electric coil.

In one step 820 the evaluation is evaluated by the position of the transducer device relative to the at least one electrical coil dependent characteristic of the electrical alternating signal to determine the position of the transducer device relative to the at least one electrical coil. From the position determined, the operating state of the button can be determined.

According to one embodiment, the method 800 also a step 830 of providing in which an output signal dependent on the determined operating state of the key is provided. For example, a value of the output signal may represent an actuation state.

For example, in the method 800 an evaluation principle will be used, which is briefly outlined below. By immersing the transducer device or an electrical conductor in the generated alternating magnetic field, the z on the printed circuit board. B. can be generated by an oscillator, an eddy current is induced in the transducer device. This leads to a damping of a vibration amplitude of the oscillator. Thus, z. B. by means of an amplitude demodulation of a z. B. sinusoidal output signal can be deduced the position of the key plunger. Also, the induced eddy current leads to an effective attenuation of the magnetic field of the oscillator. As a result, an effective inductance of the printed coil is also reduced. This increases a natural frequency of the oscillator. Thus, it is also possible to deduce the position of the key tappet by means of frequency demodulation. Both options and evaluation principles have in common that an absolute position determination is possible.

With reference to the 1 to 8th Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention in other words and briefly explained in summary. The key module 120 is executed so that between the module socket 230 or a lower housing part and the key plunger 250 the circuit board 240 is installed, the main extension plane along the key axis 410 extends. The circuit board is above the through holes 234 . 235 . 236 and 237 or Kontaktierungsdurchbrüche, which may have already occurred, for example, for LEDs, on the housing bottom of the module base 230 electrically contactable. On the key tappet 250 facing, second main surface 242 or side of the circuit board 240 is the at least one electric coil 270 . 672 . 674 arranged. The key tappet 250 is equipped on one of the circuit board side facing with an electrically conductive material to the transducer device 260 to mold. In an actuation of the button 110 . 115 or the key tappet 250 dampens its transducer 260 acting as an affixed magnet on the key plunger 250 can be executed, the at least one electric coil 270 . 672 . 674 , The resulting signals or signal changes can via the evaluation 548 or an evaluation circuit, for example, be implemented as an action or action within a particular computer application.

The embodiments described and shown in the figures are chosen only by way of example. Different embodiments may be combined together or in relation to individual features. Also, an embodiment can be supplemented by features of another embodiment. Furthermore, method steps according to the invention can be repeated as well as carried out in a sequence other than that described.

If an exemplary embodiment comprises a "and / or" link between a first feature and a second feature, this can be read so that the embodiment according to one embodiment, both the first feature and the second feature and according to another embodiment, either only the first Feature or only the second feature.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

100

keyboard

110

button

115

button

120

key module

125

key module

230

module Sockets

232

receiving portion

234, 235, 236, 237

 Through openings

240

circuit board

241

first main surface

242

second main surface

243

electronic component

244, 245, 246, 247

 connection elements

250

key plunger

252

surface

260

Transducer device

270

electric coil

410

Key operation axis

480

stop device

548

evaluation

672, 674

further electric coils

700

Method of manufacture

710

Step of providing

720

Step of molding

730

Step of recording

740

Step of Arranging

800

Method for determining

810

Step of investing

820

Step of the evaluation

830

Step of providing

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 10011085 A1 [0003]

Claims (14)

Button module ( 120 ) for a key ( 110 . 115 ) for a keyboard ( 100 ), whereby the key module ( 120 ) a module socket ( 230 ) and one relative to the module socket ( 230 ) along a key action axis ( 410 ) movable in the module base ( 230 ) can be arranged or arranged key rams ( 250 ), characterized by a transducer device ( 260 ) on the key tappet ( 250 ) is formed, and by a printed circuit board ( 240 ) with at least one electrical coil ( 270 ; 672 . 674 ), the printed circuit board ( 240 ) so in the module socket ( 230 ) is accommodated or accommodated, that a main extension plane of the printed circuit board ( 240 ) along the key action axis ( 410 ) of the key tappet ( 250 ). Button module ( 120 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that in one in the module base ( 230 ) arranged state of the key tappet ( 250 ) the encoder device ( 260 ) on one of the printed circuit board ( 240 ) facing surface ( 252 ) of the key tappet ( 250 ) is formed. Button module ( 120 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in one in the module base ( 230 ) recorded state of the circuit board ( 240 ) the at least one electrical coil ( 270 ; 672 . 674 ) on a key tappet ( 250 ) facing surface ( 242 ) of the printed circuit board ( 240 ) is arranged. Button module ( 120 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the printed circuit board ( 240 ) a plurality of electrical coils ( 270 ; 672 . 674 ), wherein the coils ( 270 ; 672 . 674 ) in a row along the key action axis ( 410 ) of the key tappet ( 250 ) are arranged. Button module ( 120 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one electrical coil ( 270 ; 672 . 674 ) is adapted to generate an alternating magnetic field in response to an applied alternating electrical signal, wherein a characteristic of the alternating electrical signal from a position of the encoder device ( 260 ) relative to the at least one electrical coil ( 270 ; 672 . 674 ) is dependent. Button module ( 120 ) According to claim 5, characterized in that the circuit board ( 240 ) an evaluation device ( 548 ), which is adapted to the from the position of the encoder device ( 260 ) relative to the at least one electrical coil ( 270 ; 672 . 674 ) dependent characteristic of the electrical alternating signal to the position of the encoder device ( 260 ) relative to the at least one electrical coil ( 270 ; 672 . 674 ) to investigate. Button module ( 120 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the module base ( 230 ) one adjacent to a range of movement of the key tappet ( 250 ) arranged receiving section ( 232 ), wherein the receiving section ( 232 ) is formed to the circuit board ( 240 ). Button module ( 120 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the module base ( 230 ) a plurality of passage openings ( 234 . 235 . 236 . 237 ), wherein the passage openings ( 234 . 235 . 236 . 237 ) are adapted to electrically contact the printed circuit board ( 240 ). Button module ( 120 ) according to claim 8, characterized in that the printed circuit board ( 240 ) a plurality of connection elements ( 244 . 245 . 246 . 247 ) for electrically contacting the printed circuit board ( 240 ), wherein the connection elements ( 244 . 245 . 246 . 247 ) are formed to fit into one in the module base ( 230 ) arranged state of the circuit board ( 240 ) through the passage openings ( 234 . 235 . 236 . 237 ) extend therethrough. Button module ( 120 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a in the module base ( 230 ) can be arranged or arranged ( 480 ), which is designed to move during a movement of the key tappet ( 250 ) along the key action axis ( 410 ) relative to the module socket ( 230 ) a counterforce on the key tappet ( 250 ), wherein the counterforce depending on a position of the key tappet ( 250 ) relative to the module socket ( 230 ) varies. Procedure ( 700 ) for producing a key module ( 120 ) for a key ( 110 . 115 ) for a keyboard ( 100 ), characterized in that the method ( 700 ) one step ( 710 ) of providing a module socket ( 230 ), one relative to the module socket ( 230 ) along a key action axis ( 410 ) movable in the module base ( 230 ) can be arranged key tappet ( 250 ) and a printed circuit board ( 240 ) with at least one electrical coil ( 270 ; 672 . 674 ), one step ( 720 ) of forming a transducer device ( 260 ) on the key tappet ( 250 ), one step ( 730 ) of receiving the printed circuit board ( 240 ) so in the module socket ( 230 ) that a main extension plane of the printed circuit board ( 240 ) along the key action axis ( 410 ) of the key tappet ( 250 ), and a step ( 740 ) of arranging the key tappet ( 250 ) in the module socket ( 230 ) having. Procedure ( 700 ) according to claim 11, characterized in that in step ( 720 ) of molding the transducer device ( 260 ) on the key tappet ( 250 ) is applied by means of a cohesive, frictional and / or frictional connection, and / or wherein in step ( 730 ) of picking up the printed circuit board ( 240 ) in the module socket ( 230 ) is fastened by means of a cohesive, non-positive and / or frictional connection. Procedure ( 800 ) for determining an actuation state of a key ( 110 . 115 ) for a keyboard ( 100 ), the process ( 800 ) in conjunction with a key module ( 120 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the method ( 800 ) one step ( 810 ) of applying an electrical alternating signal to the at least one electrical coil ( 270 ; 672 . 674 ) to generate an alternating magnetic field, wherein a characteristic of the alternating electrical signal from a position of the encoder device ( 260 ) relative to the at least one electrical coil ( 270 ; 672 . 674 ) and one step ( 820 ) of evaluating the position of the transducer device ( 260 ) relative to the at least one electrical coil ( 270 ; 672 . 674 ) dependent characteristic of the electrical alternating signal to the position of the transducer device ( 260 ) relative to the at least one electrical coil ( 270 ; 672 . 674 ) to determine the operating state of the button ( 110 . 115 ). Procedure ( 800 ) according to claim 13, characterized by a step ( 830 ) of providing one of the determined operating state of the button ( 110 . 115 ) dependent output signal.

Images