Apple desires to make Mac laptop computer keyboards extra resistant to grease and particles as evidenced by a newly granted patent (quantity US 11961688 B2) for a “Keycap Particle Evacuation Construction.”
In regards to the patent
The patent relates typically to keyboards and key mechanisms for digital gadgets. Extra significantly, the current embodiments relate to keycap particle evacuation constructions to be used with keyboards and key mechanisms for digital gadgets.
Within the patent Apple notes that latest advances in moveable computing have additionally led to thinner, extra compact gadgets (e.g., laptops and detachable keyboards) which are typically saved in journey baggage, briefcases, backpacks, duffle baggage, or purses. The portability (and related transportation/storage) of such gadgets will increase the chance of contact between the keys of the keyboard and the show whereas the pocket book laptop is closed and the show display is positioned adjoining to the highest surfaces of the keycaps.
When stowed in a backpack, as an example, moveable computing gadgets are sometimes compressed and jostled amongst different strong objects within the backpack or pressed tightly in opposition to the interior construction of the backpack. Nevertheless, woth elevated contact between shows and keyboards, contaminants and particles on the keycaps could cause harm to the show.
For instance, oil on the keycaps can switch to the show when the show is closed over the keyboard—thereby leaving ugly oil smudges on the factors of contact with the show. Mud particles and dust on the keycaps can scratch the face of an abutting show. These marks can completely have an effect on the looks and usefulness of the gadget. Apple’s patent regards enhancements to the usability, manufacture, and effectiveness of keyboards that interface with (e.g., abut) a show when closed in a folded or clamshell configuration.
Abstract of the patent
Right here’s Apple’s summary of the patent: “A keycap features a keycap physique with a prime floor and a prime periphery area extending across the prime floor. A recessed space extends throughout the highest floor inward of the highest periphery area, with the highest periphery area being elevated relative to the recessed space. The keycap additionally features a set of grooves extending from the recessed space and throughout not less than a portion of the highest periphery area.”
