The key switches of the keyboard of a computer system are generally comprisedof a key cap having a plunger, conductive rubber disposed above a membranecircuit and compressed by the plunger to trigger the membrane circuit causingit to produce an electric signal to the computer. Some key switches use springs. Some other keyboards use rubber domes or adome sheet, which do the function of springs. When the user depresses the keybutton the spring or domes collapse. The key switch depresses the key stem,which actuates the button on the membrane circuit. When the user releases thebutton the springs or rubber domes push the button up to the rest position. This article illustrates 10 inventions on different key switch mechanism. Theinventions are selected from US patent database. The inventions try to simplifythe mechanism, reduce manufacturing cost, increase accuracy and reliability,and increase strength and robustness of the keys.
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