Importance

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Abstract

A computer keyboard 10 has a plurality of keys 24 with each key 24 having a membrane keyswitch 30. Each keyswitch 30 has a lower membrane layer 32 with a printed circuit having switch contacts 42 printed on an upper side thereon within a switch contact area. An upper membrane layer 36 is provided having a printed circuit thereon with switch contacts 46 printed on a lower side thereon within the switch contact area and in actuation alignment with switch contacts 42. Dielectric pads 50 are printed over parts of the switch contact area forming dielectric mounds between switch contact segments. Stress concentration pads 54 are printed on the upper side of the upper layer 36 spaced intermediate the dielectric pads 54 for causing the upper layer 36 to deflect between the dielectric pads 50 to bring portions of the switch contacts 46 into contact with the switch contacts 42. A switch actuator in the form of an annular surface 72 on a rubber dome element 62 uniformly engages the pads 54 as the key is depressed to activate the keyswitch 30.

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First Claim