Key assembly with a multiple function key providing selective activation of plural switches

A keypad comprising:

• a key assembly comprising a flexible planar element including a plurality of keys with at least one multifunction key activating at least three switching functions;
• a key mat having an undersurface, vertically aligned with the multifunction key, which has at least three spaced apart downwardly projecting actuators, including a central actuator and at least two outboard actuators;
• a printed circuit board, including at least three spaced apart switches with a central switch and at least two outboard switches, which perform the at least three switching functions and which are aligned vertically with the downwardly projecting actuators and which are closed by contact aligned with one of the downwardly projecting actuators;
• and
• at least a pair of pivots, disposed between the central actuator and the at least two outboard actuators, which space the at least three spaced apart downwardly projecting actuators apart from the at least three spaced apart switches so that downward pressure applied to the central actuator causes contact with the central switch and does not cause the at least two outboard actuators to contact the vertically aligned at least outboard switches and downward pressure applied to any one of the outboard actuators causes contact with the vertically aligned outboard switch and pivoting about an adjacent pivot which prevents any other of the switches from being closed.