Illuminated keyboard

Abstract

A keyboard includes scissor actuators for guiding and stabilizing each key in its upward and downward movement. A substantially translucent elastomeric diaphragm including elastomeric domes underlies the keys. A seat underlies the elastomeric domes for supporting and engaging the bottom extremities of the scissor actuators. The seat may be made of translucent plastic, which functions as a translucent upper clamshell member, or non-translucent metal having sufficiently large holes for the passage of light. A substantially translucent circuit board is positioned under the seat for the creation and transmission of signals indicating depression of key members. The seat includes central holes allowing for the depression of keys to force the elastomeric domes to engage the circuit board to create electronic signals. A planar luminescent light source is positioned under the circuit board. The preferred keys are covered by a first reflective coating, and a second non-reflective coating.