Button assembly with status indicator and programmable backlighting
First Claim
1. A keypad assembly comprising:
- a support frame, the support frame comprising a first support, a second support, a third support and a fourth support;
a cross member having a first and second ends, the cross member being attached to the third and fourth support to form one or more button positions, each button position comprising a first cantilever and a second cantilever;
at least one first cantilever disposed on the first support or the second support;
at least one second cantilever disposed on the cross member;
a guide post disposed on the first end of the cross member;
a protruding ledge disposed on the second end of the cross member;
a receiving channel disposed on the third support;
a cutout disposed on the fourth support;
a circuit board, said circuit board comprising a switch for each button position;
a button or key releasably attached in each button position, each button or key comprising a bottom surface, said bottom surface non-fixidly engaging the first and second cantilevers; and
whereby the switch for each button position may be actuated by depressing its associated button or key, said first and second cantilevers restoring the depressed button or key to its prior position when released.
2 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A configurable switch matrix assembly with button assembly is disclosed for keypads used in devices such as primary control points for automation systems in homes vehicles, or commercial environments. The configurable switch matrix assembly preferably includes a frame for supporting a plurality of positionable cross members and optionally a baffle. The cross members and frame each preferably include cantilevers which can be deflected by pressing the button assemblies to activate switches associated with the keypad. Dynamic status lights and back lights may provide illumination of varying colors and intensities. Button labels may be easily replaced in the button assemblies. Button assemblies of different sizes and shapes may be easily attached to the configurable switch matrix assembly in various configurations without the need for different attaching devices for each situation and/or environment.
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Citations
16 Claims
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1. A keypad assembly comprising:
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a support frame, the support frame comprising a first support, a second support, a third support and a fourth support; a cross member having a first and second ends, the cross member being attached to the third and fourth support to form one or more button positions, each button position comprising a first cantilever and a second cantilever; at least one first cantilever disposed on the first support or the second support; at least one second cantilever disposed on the cross member; a guide post disposed on the first end of the cross member; a protruding ledge disposed on the second end of the cross member; a receiving channel disposed on the third support; a cutout disposed on the fourth support; a circuit board, said circuit board comprising a switch for each button position; a button or key releasably attached in each button position, each button or key comprising a bottom surface, said bottom surface non-fixidly engaging the first and second cantilevers; and whereby the switch for each button position may be actuated by depressing its associated button or key, said first and second cantilevers restoring the depressed button or key to its prior position when released. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16)
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Specification