KEYBOARD Russian patent published in 2010 - IPC H01H13/70 G06F3/02 

FIELD: mechanical engineering.

SUBSTANCE: switch comprises a generally tubular frame (10) of hard plastic, around the end of which there are multiple separate tabs (12) arranged along circumference next to each other. There is seat (16) in frame (10) for rubber dome-like element (24), the base of which comprises a circular rib (26). Seat (16) has a circular slot (20) with relatively sharp edge (22), intended to locate circular rib (26) of dome-like element (24). When dome-like element (24) is properly inserted in seat (16), tabs (12) are exposed to downward force, making them "fold" down on the basis of dome-like element (24) so that they are arranged substantially at the right angle to longitudinal lateral side of frame (10) and substantially flush with its edge part (29). Alternatively, tabs (12) may be heated, so that they at least partially soften and melt to each other to form a single substantially solid flange, which fully closes circular rib (26) in the base of dome-like element (24), to form liquid-impermeable seal between frame (10) and dome-like element (24). At the end of frame (10) opposite to the one, where tabs (12) are arranged, there is a hole (30), where rod (32) of key cap (34) is inserted so that it may slide. Shape of seat (16) for dome-like element (24) is such that there is a sufficient gap so that when dome-like element is deformed in operation, it does not contact inner wall of frame (10).

EFFECT: increased reliability of keyboard operation, simplified design and reduced cost.

13 cl, 8 dwg