Keypad with water and dust protection

摘要

A keypad suitable for use with a mobile communication or a handheld device. The keypad includes an actuator component formed from multiple materials and comprises a plurality of actuators, a sealing bead and/or a light guide. The sealing bead is formed from a flexible or compressible material such as silicone rubber. When the keypad is installed the sealing bead is compressed against the mounting surface in the device and provides a seal for the keypad against environmental agents such as moisture, dust and/or electrostatic discharges.

主权项

1. A keypad suitable for use with a mobile communication device having a mounting substrate, the keypad comprising:
a base-frame; a plurality of keys operatively coupled to said base-frame; an actuator component positioned with said base-frame and having an actuator for each of said plurality of keys, each of said actuators being responsive to depression of an associated one of said keys; said actuator component having a sealing bead running along a perimeter portion of said actuator component and being formed of a compressible material; and said base-frame having a perimeter edge defining a gap between said base-frame and the mounting substrate, said gap being configured for compressing at least a portion of said sealing bead against the mounting substrate.