EP0017580A1 - Keyboard with luminous indicators, especially for a control box - Google Patents

Keyboard with luminous indicators, especially for a control box Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0017580A1
EP0017580A1 EP80400432A EP80400432A EP0017580A1 EP 0017580 A1 EP0017580 A1 EP 0017580A1 EP 80400432 A EP80400432 A EP 80400432A EP 80400432 A EP80400432 A EP 80400432A EP 0017580 A1 EP0017580 A1 EP 0017580A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
plate
metallized
electroluminescent
covered
deposits
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP80400432A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Julien Petit
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Orega Electronique et Mecanique
Original Assignee
Orega Electronique et Mecanique
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Orega Electronique et Mecanique filed Critical Orega Electronique et Mecanique
Publication of EP0017580A1 publication Critical patent/EP0017580A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
    • H01H13/70—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard
    • H01H13/83—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by legends, e.g. Braille, liquid crystal displays, light emitting or optical elements
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2207/00—Connections
    • H01H2207/01—Connections from bottom to top layer
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2209/00—Layers
    • H01H2209/024—Properties of the substrate
    • H01H2209/026—Properties of the substrate metallic
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2219/00—Legends
    • H01H2219/002—Legends replaceable; adaptable
    • H01H2219/018—Electroluminescent panel
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2219/00—Legends
    • H01H2219/028—Printed information
    • H01H2219/034—Coloured areas
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2231/00—Applications
    • H01H2231/026—Car
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2231/00—Applications
    • H01H2231/032—Remote control

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a keyboard with keys and indicator lights, in particular for control boxes.
  • keyboards generally have placed one above the other a support plate, rigid or flexible on which are deposited conductive metallized zones, an interlayer sheet of insulating material pierced with openings facing the metallized zones of the support plate, and a plate upper comprising, facing the metallized areas of the support plate, deformable areas covered on their lower surface with a conductive metallic deposit.
  • the upper plate is flexible and deformable, so that when a pressure is exerted on its upper surface at a place corresponding to a metallized zone, this flexible plate deforms and the metallized zone comes into contact with a corresponding metallized zone of the support plate.
  • the upper plate is stamped with protuberances, each of these protuberances corresponding to a key.
  • the inner surface of the protrusions is covered with a conductive metallic deposit.
  • the present invention provides a keyboard with keys and indicator lights of planar shape and very reduced thickness.
  • the keyboards with indicator lights generally comprise light sources, such as electric bulbs, placed under the support plate, which is then for example translucent. These light sources are for example placed vertically on the keys so as to illuminate them when pressure is exerted on their surface.
  • the invention proposes to reduce this drawback by using a support plate comprising light-emitting zones.
  • the keyboard with keys and indicator lights comprises placed one above the other a support plate covered with conductive metallic areas, an insulating interlayer sheet pierced with openings vertically in the metallized areas of the support plate, a upper plate of which at least the parts opposite the openings of the intermediate plate are carriers of metallized zones, and is characterized in that the support plate comprises a metal plate on which is deposited a layer of dielectric material covered with conductive and electroluminescent metallized deposits .
  • the keyboard according to the invention also has the advantage of dissipating very little energy.
  • Figures la and lb show a first embodiment of a keyboard with keys and indicator lights according to the invention.
  • This keyboard comprises a support plate, comprising a metal plate 1, for example of stainless steel one millimeter thick, on which is deposited a layer 2 of dielectric material vitrified at high temperature.
  • This layer 2 is covered in certain areas of metallized deposits 3 conductors and electroluminescent, of predetermined shape. All these metallized deposits 3 are connected to conductive pads 4 serving as supply terminals.
  • the assembly composed of the metal plate 1, the dielectric layer 2, and a metallized deposit 3 constitutes a capacitor.
  • an alternating or pulsed voltage for example of a value between 130 and 250 volts, is applied between the metallized and electroluminescent deposit 3 and the metal plate 1, this deposit becomes uniformly luminous.
  • the alternating excitation voltage is applied between, on the one hand a stud 13 secured to the metal plate 1, and on the other hand the ends 20 of the conductive printed circuits 6 connected to the conductive pads 4.
  • two metallic printed networks 7 and 8 partially cover the dielectric layer 2. These networks include groups of nested conductors 9, each group corresponding to an electroluminescent zone 3.
  • An intermediate sheet 12 of insulating material is placed above the printed networks 7 and 8, and is pierced with openings 14 vertically to the groups of nested conductors 9.
  • An upper plate 11, flexible, is positioned on the intermediate sheet 12. This upper plate 11 can be entirely metallized or covered with metallized zones 10 as shown in FIG. 1b.
  • the metallized upper plate 11 brings the different conductors 9 of the networks 7 and 8 into contact. It is therefore possible to connect electrically by this means electronic circuits connected at the output of the networks 7 with electronic circuits connected at the output of the network 8. On the other hand, it is also possible by establishing the contact of the various conductors 9 of a given conductor group, of injecting between the stud 13 of the metal plate 1 and the patch 4 of a metallized and electroluminescent deposit 3 an alternating voltage so as to make this deposit 3 luminous.
  • contact can be established between a terminal deposited on the dielectric layer 2 and a terminal deposited on the lower surface of the flexible plate 11.
  • the terminal of the flexible plate can be connected to electronic circuits, by keeping this flexible plate under pressure on said electronic circuits as described in the patent application filed under No. 79/02102 on January 26, 1979 in the name of OREGA ELECTRONIQUE ET MECANIQUE.
  • Figures 2a and 2b show a second embodiment of a keyboard with keys and indicator lights according to the invention.
  • the support plate then comprises a metal plate 1 on a part of which is deposited a layer 2 of dielectric material.
  • This layer 2 is covered, as in FIG. La, in certain zones of metallized deposits 3 conductors and electroluminescent.
  • the part of the plate 1, not covered with a dielectric layer, is used as a common pole for the various keys of the keyboard.
  • an intermediate sheet 12 is placed above this part not covered with dielectric material and is pierced with openings 14.
  • a flexible upper plate 11 is positioned on the intermediate sheet 12. As in the case of FIGS. 1a and 1b, it can be entirely or partially metallized.
  • the alternating excitation voltage of the light-emitting conductive deposits 3 is applied between the stud 13 of the metal plate 1 and the pads 4 of the different light-emitting deposits 3 which may be of any shape and covered with a fluorescent paint.
  • FIG. 3 shows an exploded perspective view of a third embodiment of the invention.
  • the keyboard comprises a support plate comprising, as in the case of FIG. 1 a, a metal plate 1 entirely covered with a layer 2 of dielectric material.
  • This layer 2 is then partially covered by electroluminescent conductive deposits 3 of surface corresponding to the desired contact areas.
  • electroluminescent conductive deposits 3 can be covered with a fluorescent paint, an insulating film, or a transparent insulating varnish allowing the light area to be seen.
  • a conductive metallic zone 15 representing, for example a symbol personalizing the function of the key, or even a number; is placed on this transparent insulating varnish.
  • These different metallized zones 15 can be connected together and connected to a single output terminal 16, or each connected to an independent terminal. Each of these metallized areas 15 constitutes a contact terminal of a key on the keyboard.
  • an intermediate sheet 12 is placed above the support plate, and is pierced with openings 14 vertically to the metallized areas 15 of this support plate.
  • An upper plate 11, flexible and deformable, is positioned above the intermediate sheet 12.
  • This plate 11 comprises at least zones 17, placed vertically of the openings 14 of the intermediate sheet, transparent or translucent.
  • the zones 17 have their lower surface covered, opposite the metallized zones 15 of the support plate, by conductive metallized zones 10 of shape identical to the shapes. of these metallized areas 15 of the support plate. All these metallized zones 10 can be connected to electronic circuits by printed connections 18.
  • the alternating excitation voltage of the electroluminescent conductive deposits 3 is applied just as in the case of FIGS. 1a and 2a, between the stud 13 of the plate 1 and the various pads 4, these pads 4 being able to be in contact with pads 4 'of the upper plate 11 which they are connected using a printed circuit 20' to the AC voltage source (not shown).
  • FIGS 1, 2 and 3 show keyboards according to the invention with touch keys. This type of key is only given as an explanatory example. According to a variant of the invention, it is entirely possible to have touch buttons with an abrupt trigger, as described in the French patent application filed under No. 78/33291, on November 24, 1978 in the name OF ELECTRONIC AND MECHANICAL OREGA.
  • the upper plate 11 is then stamped so as to have translucent or transparent protuberances at the locations of the zones 17.
  • the keyboard according to the invention sees its applications in control boxes, remote control in very varied fields such as the automobile, machine tools.

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  • Input From Keyboards Or The Like (AREA)
  • Push-Button Switches (AREA)

Abstract

The keyboard comprises, one beneath the other: a support plate comprising a metal plate (1) onto which is deposited a layer (2) of dielectric material covered with electroluminescent conductive depositions (3) and with conductive metallised zones, an insulating interpolated sheet (12), drilled with holes (14) in a vertical line with the metallised zones of the support plate, an upper plate (11) of which at least the parts facing the holes (14) of the inter-polated plate (12) are carriers of metallised zones. This keyboard is used in control boxes or remote control boxes. <IMAGE>

Description

La présente invention concerne un clavier à touches et à témoins lumineux, notamment pour des boitiers de commande.The present invention relates to a keyboard with keys and indicator lights, in particular for control boxes.

Ces claviers comportent généralement placés les uns au dessus des autres une plaque support, rigide ou souple sur laquelle sont déposées des zones métallisées conductrices, une feuille intercalaire en matériau isolant percée d'ouvertures en regard des zones métallisées de la plaque support, et une plaque supérieure comportant, face aux zones métallisées de la plaque support, des zones déformables recouvertes sur leur surface inférieure d'un dépôt métallique conducteur.These keyboards generally have placed one above the other a support plate, rigid or flexible on which are deposited conductive metallized zones, an interlayer sheet of insulating material pierced with openings facing the metallized zones of the support plate, and a plate upper comprising, facing the metallized areas of the support plate, deformable areas covered on their lower surface with a conductive metallic deposit.

Plusieurs types de claviers ont été mis au point. Dans le cas par exemple des claviers à touches micro- courses, ou à effleurement, la plaque supérieure est souple et déformable, de manière que lorsqu'on exerce une pression sur sa surface supérieure à un endroit correspondant à une zone métallisée, cette plaque souple se déforme et la zone métallisée entre en contact avec une zone métallisée correspondante de la plaque support.Several types of keyboards have been developed. In the case for example of keyboards with micro-stroke or touch-sensitive keys, the upper plate is flexible and deformable, so that when a pressure is exerted on its upper surface at a place corresponding to a metallized zone, this flexible plate deforms and the metallized zone comes into contact with a corresponding metallized zone of the support plate.

Dans le cas des claviers à touches à effet tactile de déclenchement brusque, la plaque supérieure est emboutie de protubérances, chacune de ces protubérances correspondant à une touche. La surface intérieure des protubérances est recouverte d'un dépôt métallique conducteur.In the case of keypads with touch buttons having an abrupt tripping effect, the upper plate is stamped with protuberances, each of these protuberances corresponding to a key. The inner surface of the protrusions is covered with a conductive metallic deposit.

Lorsqu'on exerce une pression sur l'une de ces protubérances, celle-ci s'enfonce brusquement et son dépôt métallique conducteur entre en contact avec une zone métallisée de la plaque support.When a pressure is exerted on one of these protuberances, the latter sinks suddenly and its conductive metallic deposit comes into contact with a metallized area of the support plate.

La présente invention propose un clavier à touches et à témoins lumineux de forme plane et d'épaisseur très réduite.The present invention provides a keyboard with keys and indicator lights of planar shape and very reduced thickness.

En effet, les claviers à témoins lumineux selon l'art antérieur comportent généralement des sources lumineuses, telles que des ampoules électriques, placées sous la plaque support, qui est alors par exemple translucide. Ces sources lumineuses sont par exemple placées à la verticale des touches de manière à les éclairer lorsqu'on exerce une pression sur leur surface.Indeed, the keyboards with indicator lights according to the prior art generally comprise light sources, such as electric bulbs, placed under the support plate, which is then for example translucent. These light sources are for example placed vertically on the keys so as to illuminate them when pressure is exerted on their surface.

La disposition de ces sources accroît donc l'épaisseur du clavier.The arrangement of these sources therefore increases the thickness of the keyboard.

L'invention se propose de réduire cet inconvénient en utilisant une plaque support comportant des zones électroluminescentes.The invention proposes to reduce this drawback by using a support plate comprising light-emitting zones.

Le clavier à touches et à témoins lumineux selon l'invention comporte placées les unes au dessus des autres une plaque support recouverte-de zones métallisées conductrices, une feuille intercalaire isolante percée d'ouvertures à la verticale des zones métallisées de la plaque support, une plaque supérieure dont au moins les parties en regard des ouvertures de la plaque intercalaire sont porteuses de zones métallisées, et est caractérisé en ce que la plaque support comporte une plaque métallique sur laquelle est déposée une couche de matériau diélectrique recouverte de dépôts métallisés conducteurs et électroluminescents.The keyboard with keys and indicator lights according to the invention comprises placed one above the other a support plate covered with conductive metallic areas, an insulating interlayer sheet pierced with openings vertically in the metallized areas of the support plate, a upper plate of which at least the parts opposite the openings of the intermediate plate are carriers of metallized zones, and is characterized in that the support plate comprises a metal plate on which is deposited a layer of dielectric material covered with conductive and electroluminescent metallized deposits .

Le clavier selon l'invention présente en outre l'avantage de dissiper très peu d'énergie.The keyboard according to the invention also has the advantage of dissipating very little energy.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention ressortiront de la description suivante donnée à titre d'exemple non limitatif et illustrée par les. figures annexées qui représentent :

  • - la figure la, une vue en perspective d'un premier mode de réalisation d'un clavier selon l'invention ;
  • - la figure lb, une vue en coupe du schéma de la figure la ;
  • - la figure 2a, une vue en perspective d'un second mode de réalisation d'un clavier selon l'invention ;
  • - la figure 2b, une vue en coupe du schéma de la figure 2a ;
  • - la figure 3, une vue en perspective éclatée d'un troisième mode de réalisation d'un clavier selon l'invention.
Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from the following description given by way of nonlimiting example and illustrated by. attached figures which represent:
  • - Figure la, a perspective view of a first embodiment of a keyboard according to the invention;
  • - Figure lb, a sectional view of the diagram of Figure la;
  • - Figure 2a, a perspective view of a second embodiment of a keyboard according to the invention;
  • - Figure 2b, a sectional view of the diagram of Figure 2a;
  • - Figure 3, an exploded perspective view of a third embodiment of a keyboard according to the invention.

Les figures la et lb représentent un premier mode de réalisation d'un clavier à touches et à témoins lumineux selon l'invention.Figures la and lb show a first embodiment of a keyboard with keys and indicator lights according to the invention.

Ce clavier comporte une plaque support, comportant une plaque métallique 1, par exemple en acier inoxydable d'un millimètre d'épaisseur, sur laquelle est déposée une couche 2 de matériau diélectrique vitrifié à haute température.This keyboard comprises a support plate, comprising a metal plate 1, for example of stainless steel one millimeter thick, on which is deposited a layer 2 of dielectric material vitrified at high temperature.

Cette couche 2 est recouverte en certàines zones de dépôts métallisés 3 conducteurs et électroluminescents, de forme prédéterminée. Tous ces dépôts métallisés 3 sont reliés à des pastilles conductrices 4 servant de bornes d'alimentation.This layer 2 is covered in certain areas of metallized deposits 3 conductors and electroluminescent, of predetermined shape. All these metallized deposits 3 are connected to conductive pads 4 serving as supply terminals.

L'ensemble composé de la plaque métallique 1, de la couche diélectrique 2, et d'un dépôt métallisé 3 constitue un condensateur. Lorsqu'une tension alternative ou pulsée, par exemple d'une valeur comprise entre 130 et 250 volts, est appliquée entre le dépôt métallisé et électroluminescent 3 et la plaque métallique 1, ce dépôt devient uniformément lumineux.The assembly composed of the metal plate 1, the dielectric layer 2, and a metallized deposit 3 constitutes a capacitor. When an alternating or pulsed voltage, for example of a value between 130 and 250 volts, is applied between the metallized and electroluminescent deposit 3 and the metal plate 1, this deposit becomes uniformly luminous.

Le choix du matériau constituant le dépôt métallisé et électroluminescent permet de réaliser des zones lumineuses de couleurs différentes.The choice of the material constituting the deposit metallized and electroluminescent makes it possible to realize luminous zones of different colors.

De plus, la superposition d'une couche de peinture fluorescente 5 sur une zones lumineuse 3 permet d'obtenir une gamme de couleurs encore plus étendue.In addition, the superposition of a layer of fluorescent paint 5 on a light area 3 makes it possible to obtain an even wider range of colors.

La tension alternative d'excitation est appliquée entre, d'une part un plot 13 solidaire de la plaque métallique 1, et d'autre part les extrémités 20 des circuits imprimés conducteurs 6 reliés aux pastilles conductrices 4.The alternating excitation voltage is applied between, on the one hand a stud 13 secured to the metal plate 1, and on the other hand the ends 20 of the conductive printed circuits 6 connected to the conductive pads 4.

De plus, deux réseaux imprimés métalliques 7 et 8 recouvrent partiellement la couche diélectrique 2. Ces réseaux comportent des groupes de conducteurs imbriqués 9, chaque groupe correspondant à une zone électroluminescente 3.In addition, two metallic printed networks 7 and 8 partially cover the dielectric layer 2. These networks include groups of nested conductors 9, each group corresponding to an electroluminescent zone 3.

Une feuille intercalaire 12 en matériau isolant est placée au dessus des réseaux imprimés 7 et 8, et est percée d'ouvertures 14 à la verticale des groupes de conducteurs imbriqués 9.An intermediate sheet 12 of insulating material is placed above the printed networks 7 and 8, and is pierced with openings 14 vertically to the groups of nested conductors 9.

Une plaque supérieure 11, souple, est positionnée sur la feuille intercalaire 12. Cette plaque supérieure 11 peut être entièrement métallisée ou recouverte de zones métallisées 10 telle que représentée à la figure lb.An upper plate 11, flexible, is positioned on the intermediate sheet 12. This upper plate 11 can be entirely metallized or covered with metallized zones 10 as shown in FIG. 1b.

Lorsqu'on exerce une pression P sur la plaque supérieure à l'emplacement d'une ouverture 14 de la feuille intercalaire 12, la plaque supérieure 11 métallisée met en contact les différents conducteurs 9 des réseaux 7 et 8. Il est donc possible de relier électriquement par ce moyen des circuits électroniques connectés en sortie des réseaux 7 avec des circuits électroniques connectés en sortie du réseau 8. D'autre part, il est possible également en établissant le contact des différents conducteurs 9 d'un groupe de conducteur donné, d'injecter entre le plot 13 de la plaque métallique 1 et la pastille 4 d'un dépôt métallisé et électroluminescent 3 une tension alternative de manière à rendre lumineux ce dépôt 3.When a pressure P is exerted on the upper plate at the location of an opening 14 in the interlayer sheet 12, the metallized upper plate 11 brings the different conductors 9 of the networks 7 and 8 into contact. It is therefore possible to connect electrically by this means electronic circuits connected at the output of the networks 7 with electronic circuits connected at the output of the network 8. On the other hand, it is also possible by establishing the contact of the various conductors 9 of a given conductor group, of injecting between the stud 13 of the metal plate 1 and the patch 4 of a metallized and electroluminescent deposit 3 an alternating voltage so as to make this deposit 3 luminous.

Selon une variante de l'invention, le contact peut être établi entre une borne déposée sur la couche diélectrique 2 et une borne déposée sur la surface inférieure de la plaque souple 11. La borne de la plaque souple peut être reliée a des circuits électroniques, en maintenant en pression cette plaque souple sur lesdits circuits électroniques tel que décrit dans la demande de brevet déposée sous le n° 79/02102 le 26 janvier 1979 au nom d'OREGA ELECTRONIQUE ET MECANIQUE.According to a variant of the invention, contact can be established between a terminal deposited on the dielectric layer 2 and a terminal deposited on the lower surface of the flexible plate 11. The terminal of the flexible plate can be connected to electronic circuits, by keeping this flexible plate under pressure on said electronic circuits as described in the patent application filed under No. 79/02102 on January 26, 1979 in the name of OREGA ELECTRONIQUE ET MECANIQUE.

Les figures 2a et 2b représentent un second mode de réalisation d'un clavier à touches et à témoins lumineux selon l'invention.Figures 2a and 2b show a second embodiment of a keyboard with keys and indicator lights according to the invention.

La plaque support comporte alors une plaque métallique 1 sur une partie de laquelle est déposée une couche 2 de matériau diélectrique.The support plate then comprises a metal plate 1 on a part of which is deposited a layer 2 of dielectric material.

Cette couche 2 est recouverte, tout comme à la figure la, en certaines zones de dépôts métallisés 3 conducteurs et électroluminescents.This layer 2 is covered, as in FIG. La, in certain zones of metallized deposits 3 conductors and electroluminescent.

La partie de la plaque 1, non recouverte d'une couche de diélectrique est utilisée comme pôle commun pour les différentes touches du clavier.The part of the plate 1, not covered with a dielectric layer, is used as a common pole for the various keys of the keyboard.

En effet, une feuille intercalaire 12 est placée au dessus de cette partie non recouverte de matériau diélectrique et est percée d'ouvertures 14.Indeed, an intermediate sheet 12 is placed above this part not covered with dielectric material and is pierced with openings 14.

Une plaque supérieure 11, souple est positionnée sur la feuille intercalaire 12. Tout comme dans le cas des figures la et lb, elle peut être entièrement ou partiellement métallisée.A flexible upper plate 11 is positioned on the intermediate sheet 12. As in the case of FIGS. 1a and 1b, it can be entirely or partially metallized.

Lorsqu'on exerce une pression P sur la plaque supérieure 11 à l'emplacement d'une ouverture 14 de la feuille intercalaire 12, la zone métallisée 10 correspondante de cette plaque 11 entre en contact avec la plaque métallique 1.When a pressure P is exerted on the upper plate 11 at the location of an opening 14 in the interlayer sheet 12, the corresponding metallized zone 10 of this plate 11 comes into contact with the metal plate 1.

La tension alternative d'excitation des dépôts conducteurs électroluminescents 3, est appliquée entre le plot 13 de la plaque métallique 1 et les pastilles 4 des différents dépôts électroluminescents 3 qui peuvent être de forme quelconque et recouverts d'une peinture fluorescente.The alternating excitation voltage of the light-emitting conductive deposits 3 is applied between the stud 13 of the metal plate 1 and the pads 4 of the different light-emitting deposits 3 which may be of any shape and covered with a fluorescent paint.

Là figure 3 représente une vue en perspective éclatée d'un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention.There Figure 3 shows an exploded perspective view of a third embodiment of the invention.

Le clavier comporte une plaque support comportant comme dans le cas de la figure la, une plaque métallique 1 entièrement recouverte d'une couche 2 de matériau diélectrique.The keyboard comprises a support plate comprising, as in the case of FIG. 1 a, a metal plate 1 entirely covered with a layer 2 of dielectric material.

Cette couche 2 est alors partiellement recouverte par des dépôts conducteurs électroluminescents 3 de surface correspondant aux zones de contact désirées. Ces dépôts électroluminescents peuvent être recouverts d'une peinture fluorescente, d'un film isolant, ou d'un vernis isolant transparent permettant de voir la zone lumineuse.This layer 2 is then partially covered by electroluminescent conductive deposits 3 of surface corresponding to the desired contact areas. These electroluminescent deposits can be covered with a fluorescent paint, an insulating film, or a transparent insulating varnish allowing the light area to be seen.

Une zone métallisée conductrice 15 représentant, par exemple un symbole personnalisant la fonction de la touche, ou encore un chiffre; est disposée sur ce vernis isolant transparent.A conductive metallic zone 15 representing, for example a symbol personalizing the function of the key, or even a number; is placed on this transparent insulating varnish.

Ces différentes zones métallisées 15 peuvent être reliées entre elles et raccordées à une borne unique 16 de sortie, ou reliées chacune à une borne indépendante. Chacune de ces zones métallisées 15 constitue une borne contact d'une touche du clavier.These different metallized zones 15 can be connected together and connected to a single output terminal 16, or each connected to an independent terminal. Each of these metallized areas 15 constitutes a contact terminal of a key on the keyboard.

En effet, une feuille intercalaire 12 est placée au dessus de la plaque support, et est percée d'ouvertures 14 à la verticale des zones métallisées 15 de cette plaque support.Indeed, an intermediate sheet 12 is placed above the support plate, and is pierced with openings 14 vertically to the metallized areas 15 of this support plate.

Une plaque supérieure 11, souple et déformable, est positionnée au dessus de la feuille intercalaire 12. Cette plaque 11 comporte au moins des zones 17, placées à la verticale des ouvertures 14 de la feuille intercalaire, transparentes ou translucides.An upper plate 11, flexible and deformable, is positioned above the intermediate sheet 12. This plate 11 comprises at least zones 17, placed vertically of the openings 14 of the intermediate sheet, transparent or translucent.

Les zones 17 ont leur surface inférieure recouverte, en regard des zones métallisées 15 de la plaque support, par des zones métallisées conductrices 10 de forme identique aux formes. de ces zones métallisées 15 de la plaque support. Toutes ces zones métallisées 10 peuvent être connectées à des circuits électroniques par des connexions imprimées 18.The zones 17 have their lower surface covered, opposite the metallized zones 15 of the support plate, by conductive metallized zones 10 of shape identical to the shapes. of these metallized areas 15 of the support plate. All these metallized zones 10 can be connected to electronic circuits by printed connections 18.

La tension alternative d'excitation des dépôts conducteurs électroluminescents 3, est appliquée tout comme dans le cas des figures la et 2a, entre le plot 13 de la plaque 1 et les différentes pastilles 4, ces pastilles 4 pouvant être en contact avec des pastilles 4' de la plaque supérieure 11 qui elles sont connectées à l'aide d'un circuit imprimé 20' à la source de tension alternative (non représentée).The alternating excitation voltage of the electroluminescent conductive deposits 3 is applied just as in the case of FIGS. 1a and 2a, between the stud 13 of the plate 1 and the various pads 4, these pads 4 being able to be in contact with pads 4 'of the upper plate 11 which they are connected using a printed circuit 20' to the AC voltage source (not shown).

Lorsqu'une pression est exercée sur l'une des zones 17 de la plaque supérieure 11, celle-ci s'enfonce légèrement et la zone métallisée 10 correspon- dante entre en contact avec une zone métallisée 15 de la plaque support ; le dépôt conducteur électroluminescent correspondant est alors alimenté entre sa pastille 4 et le plot 13 et devient lumineux, éclairant la zone 17 de la plaque supérieure 11 et faisant ainsi ressortir le symbole de la touche considérée.When pressure is exerted on one of the areas 17 of the upper plate 11, it sinks slightly and the metallized area 10 corre - dent comes in contact with a metallized zone 15 of the support plate; the corresponding electroluminescent conductive deposit is then supplied between its patch 4 and the stud 13 and becomes luminous, illuminating the area 17 of the upper plate 11 and thus bringing out the symbol of the key considered.

Les figures 1, 2 et 3 montrent des claviers selon l'invention à touches à effleurement. Ce type de touche n'est donné qu'à titre d'exemple explicatif. Selon une variante de l'invention, il est tout à fait possible d'avoir des touches à effet tactile de déclenchement brusque, telles que décrites dans la demande de brevet français déposée sous le n° 78/33291, le 24 novembre 1978 au nom d'OREGA ELECTRONIQUE ET MECANIQUE. La plaque supérieure 11 est alors emboutie de manière à avoir des protubérances translucides ou transparentes aux emplacements des zones 17.Figures 1, 2 and 3 show keyboards according to the invention with touch keys. This type of key is only given as an explanatory example. According to a variant of the invention, it is entirely possible to have touch buttons with an abrupt trigger, as described in the French patent application filed under No. 78/33291, on November 24, 1978 in the name OF ELECTRONIC AND MECHANICAL OREGA. The upper plate 11 is then stamped so as to have translucent or transparent protuberances at the locations of the zones 17.

Le clavier selon l'invention voit ses applications dans des boitiers de commande,.de télécommande dans des domaines très variés tels que l'automobile, les machines outils.The keyboard according to the invention sees its applications in control boxes, remote control in very varied fields such as the automobile, machine tools.

Claims (8)

1. Clavier à touches et à témoins lumineux comportant placées les unes aux dessus des autres : une plaque support recouverte de zones métallisées conductrices, une feuille intercalaire isolante (12) percée d'ouvertures (14) à la verticale des zones métallisées de la plaque support, une plaque supérieure (1) dont au moins les parties en regard des ouvertures (14) de la plaque intercalaire (12) sont porteuses de zones métallisées (10), caractérisé en ce que la plaque support comporte une plaque métallique (1) sur laquelle est déposée une couche (2) de matériau diélectrique recouverte de dépôts (3) métallisés conducteurs et électroluminescents.1. Keyboard with keys and indicator lights comprising placed one above the other: a support plate covered with conductive metallized zones, an insulating interlayer sheet (12) pierced with openings (14) vertically of the metallized zones of the plate support, an upper plate (1) of which at least the parts opposite the openings (14) of the intermediate plate (12) are carriers of metallized areas (10), characterized in that the support plate comprises a metal plate (1) on which is deposited a layer (2) of dielectric material covered with metallic and conductive and electroluminescent deposits (3). 2. Clavier à touches selon la revendication l, caractérisé en ce que la plaque supérieure (11) et la feuille intercalaire (12) recouvrent une partie de la plaque support supportant les zones métallisées conductrices, la partie libre supportant les dépôts électroluminescents (3), dont le nombre est égal à celui des zones métallisées conductrices.2. Keypad according to claim l, characterized in that the upper plate (11) and the intermediate sheet (12) cover part of the support plate supporting the conductive metallized areas, the free part supporting the electroluminescent deposits (3) , the number of which is equal to that of the conductive metallized areas. 3. Clavier à touches selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que la couche de matériau diélectrique (2) recouvre une partie de la plaque métallique (1), cette partie supportant les dépôts électroluminescents (3), l'autre partie étant recouverte par la feuille intercalaire (12) et la plaque supérieure (11).3. Keypad according to claim 1, characterized in that the layer of dielectric material (2) covers part of the metal plate (1), this part supporting the electroluminescent deposits (3), the other part being covered by the interlayer sheet (12) and the upper plate (11). 4. Clavier à touches selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les dépôts électroluminescents (3) sont recouverts chacun d'un vernis isolant, lui- même recouvert d'une zone métallisée conductrice, les ouvertures (14) de la feuille intercalaire 12 et les zones métallisées (10) de la feuille supérieure (11) étant alors à la verticale à la fois des dépôts électroluminescents (3) et des zones métallisées conductrices de la plaque support.4. Keypad according to claim 1, characterized in that the electroluminescent deposits (3) are each covered with an insulating varnish, itself covered with a conductive metallized area, the openings (14) of the interlayer sheet 12 and the metallized zones (10) of the upper sheet (11) then being vertically both electroluminescent deposits (3) and conductive metallized areas of the support plate. 5. Clavier à touches selon la revendication 4, caractérisé en ce que les parties de la feuille supérieure (11) supportant les zones métallisées (10) sont transparentes.5. Keypad according to claim 4, characterized in that the parts of the upper sheet (11) supporting the metallized areas (10) are transparent. 6. Clavier à touches selon l'une des révendica- tions 1 à 5, caractérisé en ce que la plaque supérieure (11) est entièrement plane et déformable de manière à former en conjonction avec la plaque support et la feuille intercalaire (12) des touches à effleurement.6. Keypad according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the upper plate (11) is entirely flat and deformable so as to form, in conjunction with the support plate and the interlayer sheet (12) touch buttons. 7. Clavier à touches selon l'une des revendications 1 à 6, caractérisé en ce que les dépôts électroluminescents (3) sont recouverts d'une peinture flo- rescente (5).7. Keypad according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the electroluminescent deposits (3) are covered with a fluorescent paint (5). 8. Boitier de commande, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un clavier à touches conforme à l'une des revendications 1 à 7.8. Control unit, characterized in that it comprises a keyboard with keys in accordance with one of claims 1 to 7.
EP80400432A 1979-04-03 1980-04-01 Keyboard with luminous indicators, especially for a control box Withdrawn EP0017580A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR7908374A FR2453487A1 (en) 1979-04-03 1979-04-03 KEYPAD WITH LIGHTS AND LIGHTS, ESPECIALLY FOR A CONTROL UNIT
FR7908374 1979-04-03

Publications (1)

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EP0017580A1 true EP0017580A1 (en) 1980-10-15

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EP (1) EP0017580A1 (en)
FR (1) FR2453487A1 (en)

Cited By (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3128408A1 (en) * 1981-07-17 1983-02-03 Kaltenbach & Voigt Gmbh & Co, 7950 Biberach DEVICE FOR CONVERTING THE PRESSURE OF A PRESSURE MEDIUM INTO AN ELECTRICAL SIGNAL
US4531034A (en) * 1983-03-24 1985-07-23 Nitsuko Limited Key switch devices with indicator lamp means
US4683360A (en) * 1986-05-09 1987-07-28 W. H. Brady Co. Membrane switch combined with electroluminescent lamp panel
EP0323916A2 (en) * 1988-01-08 1989-07-12 Marconi Electronic Devices Limited Push-button keypads
GB2250380A (en) * 1990-11-27 1992-06-03 Ist Lab Ltd Switch apparatus
DE4109138A1 (en) * 1991-03-20 1992-09-24 Thomson Brandt Gmbh Input keyboard for use by blind person - uses braille inputs with decoding by microprocessor to control signal generator
GB2306783A (en) * 1995-10-16 1997-05-07 Gen Information Systems Ltd Integrated circuit card reader
WO2001015189A1 (en) * 1999-08-24 2001-03-01 Kajlich Anton A switch for a touch pad
FR2865445A1 (en) * 2004-01-27 2005-07-29 Siemens Vdo Automotive Motor vehicle`s access and/or starting controlling device e.g. electronic key, has LEDs associated to control units in form of switches placed between film switches, and power saving unit supplying diodes when device is in defined perimeter

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2266282A1 (en) * 1974-04-01 1975-10-24 Litton Industries Inc
US4060703A (en) * 1976-11-10 1977-11-29 Everett Jr Seth Leroy Keyboard switch assembly with tactile feedback having illuminated laminated layers including opaque or transparent conductive layer
FR2389217A1 (en) * 1977-04-25 1978-11-24 Amp Inc TRANSPARENT ELECTRICAL SWITCH FOR DISPLAY DEVICE

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2266282A1 (en) * 1974-04-01 1975-10-24 Litton Industries Inc
US4060703A (en) * 1976-11-10 1977-11-29 Everett Jr Seth Leroy Keyboard switch assembly with tactile feedback having illuminated laminated layers including opaque or transparent conductive layer
FR2389217A1 (en) * 1977-04-25 1978-11-24 Amp Inc TRANSPARENT ELECTRICAL SWITCH FOR DISPLAY DEVICE

Non-Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
IBM TECHNICAL DISCLOSURE BULLETIN, Vol. 13, No. 3, Aout 1970 New York (US) W.W. ELLINGTON: "Luminescing flexible switch", page 742. * Page 742 * *
IBM TECHNICAL DISCLOSURE BULLETIN, Vol. 9, No. 7, Decembre 1966 New York (US) W.D. THORNE: "Matrix keyboard with hydraulic reset and fluorescent character indication", page 848. * Page 845, alinea 1 * *

Cited By (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3128408A1 (en) * 1981-07-17 1983-02-03 Kaltenbach & Voigt Gmbh & Co, 7950 Biberach DEVICE FOR CONVERTING THE PRESSURE OF A PRESSURE MEDIUM INTO AN ELECTRICAL SIGNAL
US4531034A (en) * 1983-03-24 1985-07-23 Nitsuko Limited Key switch devices with indicator lamp means
US4683360A (en) * 1986-05-09 1987-07-28 W. H. Brady Co. Membrane switch combined with electroluminescent lamp panel
EP0323916A2 (en) * 1988-01-08 1989-07-12 Marconi Electronic Devices Limited Push-button keypads
GB2213648A (en) * 1988-01-08 1989-08-16 Marconi Electronic Devices Push-button keypads
EP0323916A3 (en) * 1988-01-08 1990-12-27 Marconi Electronic Devices Limited Push-button keypads
GB2250380A (en) * 1990-11-27 1992-06-03 Ist Lab Ltd Switch apparatus
GB2250380B (en) * 1990-11-27 1995-01-04 Ist Lab Ltd Switch apparatus
DE4109138A1 (en) * 1991-03-20 1992-09-24 Thomson Brandt Gmbh Input keyboard for use by blind person - uses braille inputs with decoding by microprocessor to control signal generator
GB2306783A (en) * 1995-10-16 1997-05-07 Gen Information Systems Ltd Integrated circuit card reader
GB2306783B (en) * 1995-10-16 1999-10-06 Gen Information Systems Ltd Integrated circuit card reader
WO2001015189A1 (en) * 1999-08-24 2001-03-01 Kajlich Anton A switch for a touch pad
FR2865445A1 (en) * 2004-01-27 2005-07-29 Siemens Vdo Automotive Motor vehicle`s access and/or starting controlling device e.g. electronic key, has LEDs associated to control units in form of switches placed between film switches, and power saving unit supplying diodes when device is in defined perimeter

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
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FR2453487B1 (en) 1982-01-22

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