Patent attributes
A low travel keyboard and methods of fabrication are described. The low-travel keyboard is suitable for a thin-profile computing device, such as a laptop computer, netbook computer, desktop computer, etc. The keyboard includes a key cap positioned over stacked elastomeric and metal domes. The quick force drop of the metal dome provides the crisp “snappy” feel for the user and the elastomeric dome provides the ability for longer travel than the metal dome alone. The metal dome also activates the switch circuitry of the membrane on printed circuit board. The stacking of the elastomeric metal domes takes advantage of the abrupt force drop in the metal dome buckling and applies it to the elastomeric dome force, making it possible to design a low-travel key while still maintaining or improving the tactile feeling of the key switch.
