Multilayer switchdome systems and methods are presented that may enable improved tactile and strength properties and enhanced action. Embodiments may utilize a first layer of spring material (1) and at least a second layer of spring material (2) to form a switchdome component (4). In certain embodiments, the spring material layers may be conjoined by utilizing a switchdome bond (3) to create an integrated bonded composite spring sheet material (7). Various forming processes (8) may be employed in performing the varying embodiments of a method of switchdome component (4) forming. The varying forming processes (8) may improve the physical properties of the tactile switchdome component (4). The varying processes, spring materials, and switchdome bond types may be optimized for a particular application.

An interface device includes a movable button connected to a frame structure by resilient structures positioned laterally between the button and the frame structure. Multiple layers or diaphragms of material can be used to make the button, frame, and resilient structures. Movement of the button can trigger a switch or sensor in a manner allowing an electronic device to detect interaction with the button. The interface device can be implemented in an electronic device such as a keyboard that has a low number of parts yet also providing tactile, stabilized key travel, support for various sensor or switch types for the keys, and, in some cases, haptic feedback.

A control device includes a button assembly having one or more buttons and a button carrier that includes a plurality of resilient, independently deflectable spring arms. The control device may be configured as a wall-mounted keypad to control a load control device, or as a thermostat to control a temperature regulation appliance. The button carrier may be configured to prevent interference between the buttons during operation of the control device. The button assembly may be captured between a faceplate of the control device and a housing that is attached to a rear side of the faceplate. The control device may include one or more button retainers that are attached to the buttons and that are configured to align respective outer surfaces of the buttons relative to each other, and relative to the faceplate of the control device, when the buttons are in respective rest positions.

A control device includes a button assembly having one or more buttons and a button carrier that includes a plurality of resilient, independently deflectable spring arms. The control device may be configured as a wall-mounted keypad to control a load control device, or as a thermostat to control a temperature regulation appliance. The button carrier may be configured to prevent interference between the buttons during operation of the control device. The button assembly may be captured between a faceplate of the control device and a housing that is attached to a rear side of the faceplate. The control device may include one or more button retainers that are attached to the buttons and that are configured to align respective outer surfaces of the buttons relative to each other, and relative to the faceplate of the control device, when the buttons are in respective rest positions.

A key mechanism is disclosed. The key mechanism comprises a keycap, a dome support structure positioned relative to the keycap and defining an opening, an actuation mechanism coupled to the keycap, and a collapsible dome positioned in the opening of the dome support structure. The actuation mechanism is configured to movably support the keycap relative to the dome support structure. The dome comprises an upstop member configured to limit upward travel of the collapsible dome.

An assemblable keyboard includes plural assemblable keys and a main control key. Each assemblable key can be triggered to generate a key signal. The assemblable key includes a pedestal, a key structure and a conductive structure. The main control key includes a key processor and a transmission interface. The assemblable key includes plural coupling structures with the conductive structure. Every two adjacent assemblable keys are combined together and electrically connected with each other through the corresponding coupling structures. After the key signal generated by each assemblable key is transmitted to the main control key, the key signal is further outputted to a computer host. The layout space of the assemblable keyboard is reduced. Moreover, the assembling flexibility of the keyboard is enhanced.

A control device includes a button assembly having one or more buttons and a button carrier that includes a plurality of resilient, independently deflectable spring arms. The control device may be configured as a wall-mounted keypad to control a load control device, or as a thermostat to control a temperature regulation appliance. The button carrier may be configured to prevent interference between the buttons during operation of the control device. The button assembly may be captured between a faceplate of the control device and a housing that is attached to a rear side of the faceplate. The control device may include one or more button retainers that are attached to the buttons and that are configured to align respective outer surfaces of the buttons relative to each other, and relative to the faceplate of the control device, when the buttons are in respective rest positions.

A push switch includes a case, a fixed contact member, a moving contact member, a first protective sheet, and a second protective sheet. The case has a first surface with a recess opened and a second surface opposite from the first surface. The fixed contact member includes a fixed contact in the recess and a terminal on an outer surface of the case. The moving contact member is in the recess and includes a moving contact to contact with the fixed contact through a press operation. The first protective sheet is provided for the first surface to cover the recess. The second protective sheet covers the second surface. The first protective sheet is welded to the first surface with a first welded portion surrounding an entire circumference of the recess. The second protective sheet is welded to the second surface with a second welded portion.

The invention provides an axially actuating tactile electrical switch comprising a casing; a plurality of independent fixed electrical contacts arranged in a base of the casing, and a movable electrical contact comprising a peripheral portion resting on a portion of a fixed peripheral electrical contact and a central portion movable vertically downwards; a single piece actuating body made of elastic material comprising a peripheral portion, an actuating central part comprising a lower portion for actuating the movable electrical contact, and an upper portion for receiving an actuating force, forming a casing comprising an upper cover having a hole whereby a free upper end section of the upper portion extends axially; the cover has an internal retaining surface; and the actuating body has an abutment surface cooperating with the internal retaining surface of the cover to determine an upper rest position of the actuating body with respect to the casing.

A movable member includes an elastically deformable portion that curves upward in a protruding manner and includes a movable electrode, and a support portion having a leg portion extending downward from a peripheral edge of the elastically deformable portion, an extension portion extending upward from the leg portion, and a connecting portion connecting the leg portion and the extension portion. The leg portion has an intermediate portion positioned between both end portions in a width direction of the leg portion, the intermediate portion protruding, a boundary between the leg portion and the extension portion has an arc shape in top view, and a lower surface of the connecting portion is a protruding curved surface protruding downward.