Force controllable shielded mechanical switch actuators

Abstract

A mechanical switch in a laptop computer or other electronic equipment is surrounded by a protective, electrostatically shielding bellow-shaped housing that is formed from a nickel metal. Preferably formed by casting, the bellows has a sidewall thickness of about 0.06 mm to about 0.12 mm, a diameter ranging from about 2.6 mm to about 10 mm, and a compressive actuation displacement ranging from about 2 mm to about 8 mm. The number, shape and thickness of convolutions or pleats comprising the bellow may be designed to tailor the actuation force vs. actuation travel stroke transfer function. A substantially linear transfer function is achieved by providing a constant thickness housing wall and a constant convolution pitch. The housing produces good protection against water and dust, good tactile feedback, yet is cost and weight competitive with prior art rubber housings.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.