Collapsible portable computer keyboard structure having springless lid-to-keyboard drive linkage

摘要

A notebook computer is provided with a collapsible keyboard in which a dome sheet with elastomeric key return dome members thereon is horizontally shiftable through elevation and retraction strokes to respectively shift the keys between elevated operating positions in which the domes underlie and support the keys, and retracted positions in which the domes are shifted away from their key-underlying positions. A springless linkage structure interconnects the dome sheet to a cylindrical hinge area portion of the computer's lid housing which rotates with the lid housing as it is opened and closed. The linkage structure functions to drive the dome sheet through its elevation stroke during an initial portion of the lid housing's pivotal opening movement, and to drive the dome sheet through its retraction stroke during a terminal portion of the lid housing's closing movement. Force is exerted on the dome sheet by the springless linkage structure only during forced pivotal movement of the lid housing.