Display-based switch assembly and method of use

Abstract

Embodiments include a display assembly for a switch assembly, comprising a display assembly touch cover plate, wherein at least a portion of the display assembly touch cover plate is formed of a transparent or translucent material; a display, wherein the display is disposed below the display assembly touch cover plate, and wherein at least a portion of the display is visible through a portion of the display assembly touch cover plate; a display assembly first shell and a display assembly second shell, wherein the display assembly touch cover plate is in communication with the display assembly first shell, wherein a force applied to the display assembly touch cover plate is at least partially transmitted from the display assembly touch cover plate to the display assembly first shell, and transmitted to the switch assembly via a central portion of the display assembly first shell.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 613,656, filed on January 4, 2018, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety and made a part hereof. Background Art

[0003] Traditional capacitive sensing touchscreen technologies, such as those used in smartphones and tablet devices, require a lot of visual engagement from the driver, which can distract the driver and compromise safety. Traditional mechanical switches and knobs are less distracting because they can be used safely without requiring the driver to take their eyes off the road, but they often have limited flexibility, with each switch controlling a single function or feature.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need in the art for a switch assembly that provides sufficient feedback to the driver upon receiving driver input to avoid distracting the driver and that is capable of controlling multiple functions and / or vehicle systems with a minimal footprint. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and accompanying exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below.

[0006] Figure 1 A perspective view of a switch assembly according to one embodiment is shown.

[0007] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A partially exploded view of the switch assembly is shown.

[0008] Figure 3 Shown by Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a partially assembled switch assembly taken along line CC in FIG.

[0009] Figure 4 Shows Figure 2 A stereoscopic view of the tactile actuator shown.

[0010] Figure 5 Shows Figure 2 A perspective view of the housing is shown.

[0011] Figure 6 Shown is a partially assembled Figure 2 A perspective view of the switch assembly is shown.

[0012] Figure 7 Shows Figure 2 A perspective view of the second surface of the first PCB is shown.

[0013] Figure 8 Shows Figure 2 A perspective view of a second surface of a second PCB is shown.

[0014] Fig.9A Shows Figure 2 A perspective view of the second surface of the light guide is shown.

[0015] Fig. 9B Shows Figure 2 A perspective view of the first surface of the light guide is shown.

[0016] Fig. 9C Shows Figure 2 Cross-sectional view of the light guide shown.

[0017] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B Shows Figure 2 A perspective view of the ring frame is shown.

[0018] Fig.11 Shows Figure 2 A perspective view of the membrane is shown.

[0019] Fig.12 Shows Figure 1 A plan view of the first surface of the touch cover plate is shown.

[0020] Fig.13 A perspective view of a first surface of a light guide according to another embodiment is shown.

[0021] Fig.14 A block diagram of an electrical control system according to one embodiment is shown.

[0022] Fig.15 A flow chart of instructions stored on a memory for execution by a processor disposed on a second PCB is shown according to one embodiment.

[0023] Fig.16 A flow chart of instructions stored on a memory for execution by a processor disposed on a first PCB is shown according to one embodiment.

[0024] Fig.17 A graph showing the resistance sensed by a force sensor and the corresponding force signal associated with each resistance level is shown according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figures 18A-18D Exemplary touch events and corresponding haptic responses to each touch event are shown according to one embodiment.

[0026] Fig.19AA perspective view of a portion of a switch assembly according to another embodiment is shown.

[0027] Fig.19B Shows Fig.19A 0 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the switch assembly shown in FIG. 1 taken through line DD.

[0028] Fig.19C Shows Fig.19A A partially exploded view of the switch assembly is shown.

[0029] Fig. 20A A partial perspective view of a switch assembly according to another embodiment is shown.

[0030] Fig. 20B Shows Fig. 20A A cross-sectional view of a portion of the switch assembly shown is taken through line EE.

[0031] Fig. 20C Shows Fig. 20A A partially exploded view of the switch assembly is shown.

[0032] Fig.20D Shows Fig. 20A A partial perspective view of the switch assembly is shown.

[0033] Figure 21-Figure 32 An alternative embodiment of a switch assembly is shown that further includes a display assembly and a touch cover. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Various embodiments include a switch assembly comprising a housing and at least two printed circuit boards (PCBs) disposed within the housing and axially disposed relative to each other. One or more force sensors are disposed on one of the PCBs, and, in some embodiments, the one or more force sensors receive a force input received by a touch cover plate. Signals from the force sensors are processed to determine the magnitude, acceleration, and / or position of the force input, and the touch cover plate receives a tactile feedback response. According to some embodiments, the tactile feedback response is based on the magnitude, acceleration, and / or position of the input force. According to some embodiments, axially arranging the PCBs reduces the footprint of the switch assembly and allows more electrical components to be included in the switch assembly.

[0035] Various embodiments are described in detail below based on the drawings.

[0036] For example, Figure 1-Figure 12 A switch assembly according to one embodiment is illustrated. The switch assembly 100 includes a housing 102 , a first printed circuit board (PCB) 110 , a second PCB 112 , a light guide 142 , a membrane 170 , an optional touch cover plate 195 , and an annular frame 180 .

[0037] The housing 102 has a first wall 104 and a second wall 106 for defining a chamber 108. The second wall 106 extends axially from a radially outer edge 105 of the first wall 104, forming a side wall. A distal edge 172 of the second wall 106 defines an opening to the chamber 108. A longitudinal axis AA extends through the center of the chamber 108 and the first wall 104.

[0038] Two or more PCBs are axially arranged adjacent to each other in the chamber 108. In particular, a first PCB 110 is arranged in the chamber 108 adjacent to the first wall 104, and a second PCB 112 is axially adjacent to and spaced apart from the first PCB 110 in the chamber 108. A first electrical connector 114 extends from a second surface 116 of the first PCB 110, and a second electrical connector 117 extends from a first surface 118 of the second PCB 112. These electrical connectors 114, 117 are axially aligned and coupled together to allow electrical communication between the PCBs 110, 112. The first PCB 110 also includes a third electrical connector 120 extending from a first surface 122 of the first PCB 110. The third electrical connector 120 is electrically coupled to a vehicle communication bus (e.g., and / or the display assembly 1000) (as described below). In the illustrated embodiment, the third electrical connector 120 is axially arranged relative to the first electrical connector 114, but the connectors 120, 114 are not axially aligned. However, in other embodiments, the third electrical connector 120 is axially aligned with the first electrical connector 114 .

[0039] The first wall 104 of the housing 102 includes a first set of one or more protrusions 125 extending inwardly into the chamber 108 along the axis AA direction. The first surface 122 of the first PCB 110 is disposed on the distal surface 125a of the first set of one or more protrusions 125 so that the first surface 122 is spaced apart from the first wall 104. The first PCB 110 defines an opening 124, and the first set of protrusions 125 define an opening 126 axially aligned with the opening 124. The fastener 127 is engaged through the respective aligned pairs of openings 124, 126 to couple the first PCB 110 to the protrusions 125 and prevent relative movement of the first PCB 110 within the chamber 108. Although three fasteners are shown, more or fewer fasteners may be selected. In other embodiments, other fastening means may be selected. For example, other fastening means include friction fit, snaps, clips, rivets, adhesives or other suitable fastening mechanisms within the housing.

[0040] The second set of projections 128 extend axially inward from the first wall 104 into the chamber 108 and radially inward (e.g., in a direction perpendicular to and toward AA) from the second wall 106 into the chamber 108. The second set of projections 128 are spaced apart from one another. Figure 5As shown, each protrusion 128 includes a first rib 132 and a second rib 134. Each rib 132, 134 includes a proximal edge 133 coupled to the second wall 106 and a distal edge 135 spaced from the proximal edge 133 and radially inward into the chamber 108. The distal edges 135 of the ribs 132, 134 intersect and define a boss 136. The protrusions 125 extend between the protrusions 128, but the surface 125a of each protrusion 125 is spaced from the surface 130 of each protrusion 128. In particular, the plane including the surface 125a is axially spaced between the first wall 104 and the plane including the surface 130. The first surface 118 of the second PCB 112 is disposed on the surface 130 of the protrusion 128 so that the opening 138 defined in the second PCB 112 is axially aligned with the opening defined by the boss 136. A fastener 137 extends through each pair of aligned openings 138, 136 to couple the second PCB 112 to the protrusion 128 and prevent relative movement of the second PCB 112 within the chamber 108. Although four fasteners are shown, more or fewer fasteners may be selected. In other embodiments, other fastening means may be selected. For example, other fastening means include friction fits, snaps, clips, rivets, adhesives, or other suitable fastening mechanisms within the housing.

[0041] The first PCB 110 has an outer perimeter shaped to fit within the cavity 108 and between the second set of protrusions 128, which allows the first surface 122 of the first PCB 110 to be disposed on the surface 125a of the protrusions 125. The second PCB 112 also has an outer perimeter shaped to fit within the cavity 108 so that the first surface 118 of the second PCB 112 engages the ribs 132, 134 of the second set of protrusions 128.

[0042] A plurality of force sensors 140 are disposed on the second surface 123 of the second PCB 112 and are spaced apart from one another. The force sensors 140 are axially aligned with the corresponding first ribs 132 and / or second ribs 134. This arrangement allows a force to be applied to the force sensors 140 in the z direction (i.e., along the central longitudinal axis AA), and the surface 130 of the protrusion 128 prevents the second PCB 112 from bending or flexing, wherein the force sensors 140 are coupled to the second PCB 112 in response to the applied force, preventing the force sensors 140 from being damaged. When the force sensors 140 receive a force, the surface 130 of the protrusion 128 also prevents the second PCB 112 from axially moving relative to the first PCB 110 and the housing 102. In one embodiment, the force sensors 140 include a micro-electro-mechanical sensor (MEMS) that provides an output signal corresponding to the magnitude of the force received by the sensor. For example, a MEMS force sensor can detect force with a displacement as small as 2 microns.

[0043] The light guide 142 is arranged in the chamber 108 and includes a first surface 144, a second surface 143 opposite to and spaced from the first surface 144, and a side edge 145 extending between the first surface 144 and the second surface 143. The first surface 144 of the light guide 142 faces the force sensor 140 coupled to the second PCB 112. In some embodiments, the light guide 142 is a plate made of a transparent or translucent material. For example, the light guide 142 may include a rigid material, such as an acrylic material or a polycarbonate material. At least one light source is disposed on the second surface 123 of the second PCB 112. For example, in some embodiments, the light source includes a light emitting diode (LED) 146, and the side edge 145 of the light guide 142 is disposed radially close to the LED 146. Light from the LED 146 passes through the side edge 145 of the light guide 142 and is emitted from the second surface 143 of the light guide 142. With this system, a single light source or multiple light sources are disposed on the same side, adjacent sides, or opposite sides of the light guide 142, and the light is directed toward the second surface 143 of the light guide 142. However, in other embodiments, the light may enter the light guide 142 through the first surface 144 of the light guide 142.

[0044] In some embodiments, the second surface 143, the first surface 144, and / or the side 145 of the light guide 142 include integrally formed micro-lenses for guiding light through the light guide 142 and out of the second surface 143. For example, Fig. 9C A plurality of microlenses 147 are shown on the first surface 144 of the light guide 142, the plurality of microlenses 147 including raised and / or recessed portions. In other or further embodiments, one or more light altering films are disposed on one or more of the light guide surfaces 143, 144 of the light guide 142 and / or the side edges 145 of the light guide 142.

[0045] exist Fig. 9B In the illustrated embodiment, the first surface 144 of the light guide 142 includes a plurality of protrusions 148 extending axially from the first surface 144. The protrusions 148 are axially aligned with the force sensors 140 on the second PCB 112. The protrusions 148 focus the forces received by the light guide 142 onto the force sensors 140. In one embodiment, the protrusions 148 are integrally formed with the first surface 144. However, in other embodiments, the protrusions 148 may be formed separately and coupled to the first surface 144.

[0046] exist Fig.13In another embodiment shown, the first surface 144' of the light guide 142' is planar, and a force concentrator formed separately from the light guide 142' is arranged between each force sensor and the first surface 144' of the light guide 142'. Each force concentrator transmits the force received by the light guide 142' to the corresponding force sensor below the force concentrator.

[0047] The tactile actuator 160 provides tactile feedback to the user. For example, according to one embodiment, the tactile actuator 160 is a speaker (e.g., a coreless voice coil assembly), and the tactile output is a sound wave that is perceptible or imperceptible to the human ear by propagating multiple pressure waves along a propagation axis to change the air pressure near the output surface of the speaker. The propagation axis is perpendicular to the output surface 161, and in the embodiment shown, the propagation axis is parallel to the central axis AA, which extends perpendicularly to and through the surfaces 196, 197 of the touch plate 195. For example, in some embodiments, the propagation axis can be coaxial with the axis AA. Figure 1-Figure 12 In the embodiment shown in , the output surface 161 of the tactile actuator 160 is directly coupled to the first surface 144 of the light guide 142. Therefore, at least a portion of the pressure waves propagating from the output surface 161 are directed toward and captured by the first surface 144 of the light guide 142, causing vibration or oscillation of the light guide 142 in the z-direction. In this embodiment, the first surface 144 of the light guide 142 serves as a reaction surface of the actuator 160. The vibration of the light guide 142 is transmitted to the membrane 170 and the touch plate 195. Therefore, the tactile actuator 160 is vibrationally coupled to the inner surface 196 of the touch plate 195 because the pressure waves originating from the tactile actuator 160 induce a vibration response on the touch plate 195. In some embodiments, the tactile actuator 160 is coupled to the first surface 144 of the light guide 142 using an adhesive 162. However, in other embodiments, other suitable fastening mechanisms may be used. Also, in other embodiments, the output surface 161 of the tactile actuator 160 is disposed axially and is close to and spaced apart from the first surface 144 of the light guide 142. In addition, in some embodiments, the tactile actuator 160 is disposed close to a central portion of the first surface 144 of the light guide 142.

[0048] like Figure 4As shown, the tactile actuator 160 includes a flexible cable connector 164 having a first end 165 coupled to a first end 166 of the tactile actuator 160 and a second end 167 coupled to the first surface 118 of the second PCB 112. The flexible cable connector 164 minimizes or eliminates vibrations transmitted from the tactile actuator 160 to the second PCB 112 while allowing the tactile actuator 160 to be electrically coupled to the second PCB 112. In a non-limiting example, the flexible cable connector described herein may include a zero insertion force (ZIF) type connector. In an alternative embodiment, the tactile actuator 160 is coupled to the second PCB 112 with a wire that is coupled to each of the tactile actuator 160 and the second PCB 112 by welding or other suitable coupling mechanisms.

[0049] In addition, the second PCB 112 defines an opening 163 through which the output surface 161 of the tactile actuator 160 extends so as to couple the output surface 161 to the first surface 144 of the light guide 142. This arrangement allows the height of the switch assembly 100 in the direction of the axis AA to be reduced, increasing the energy received by the touch cover 195 from the tactile actuator 160, and reducing the vibration energy transferred to the second PCB 112. However, in other embodiments, the second PCB may not define the opening 163, and the tactile actuator 160 may be axially spaced apart from the second surface 123 of the second PCB 112 and disposed between the first surface 144 of the light guide 142 and the second surface 123 of the second PCB 112. By spacing the tactile actuator 160 from the second PCB 112, the vibration energy from the tactile actuator 160 is isolated from the second PCB 112, thereby allowing more energy to be received by the light guide 142.

[0050] The flexible membrane 170 extends over at least a portion of the chamber 108. A first surface 171 of the flexible membrane 170 faces the second surface 143 of the light guide 142, and at least a portion of these surfaces 171, 143 are coupled together (e.g., by bonding). A plurality of posts 173 extend axially from a distal edge 172 of the second wall 106 of the housing 102 and are circumferentially spaced from one another. The flexible membrane 170 defines a plurality of post holes 174 proximate a radially outer edge 175 of the membrane 170. The posts 173 are engaged by corresponding post holes 174 of the membrane 170 to prevent the membrane 170 from moving in the xy plane (i.e., a plane perpendicular to the central axis AA). In some embodiments, the surfaces 171, 143 are coupled together before the posts 173 are engaged by the openings 174. By limiting the movement of the membrane 170 in the z-direction, the membrane 170 can more effectively transfer vibrations from the light guide 142, and the membrane 170 can prevent the x or y component of the force incident on the switch assembly 100 from being transmitted to the force sensor 140, thereby preventing the force sensor 140 from being damaged due to shear forces. The membrane 170 can also prevent fluids or debris from entering the switch 100.

[0051] In the above-described embodiment, the film 170 covers the opening of the chamber 108 , but in other embodiments, the film 170 may cover only a portion of the opening of the chamber 108 .

[0052] The membrane 170 is formed of a flexible material capable of resonating in the z direction. For example, the membrane 170 can be made of a polymer material (e.g., polyester, polycarbonate), a thin metal sheet, or other suitable flexible material. In addition, the stiffness of the material of the membrane 170 can be selected according to the desired resonance amount and taking into account the load incident on the membrane 170.

[0053] The touch cover plate 195 has a first surface 196 and a second surface 197. At least a central portion 201 of the first surface 196 of the touch cover plate 195 is coupled to the second surface 198 of the film 170, and the second surface 197 of the touch cover plate 195 faces the axial direction opposite to the first surface 196 and receives force input from the user. For example, in one embodiment, the second surface 198 of the film 170 and the central portion 201 of the first surface 196 of the touch cover plate 195 are bonded together.

[0054] In some embodiments, the texture of at least a portion of the second surface 197 of the touch cover plate 195 is different from the texture of the portion of the vehicle near the switch assembly 100 to allow the user to identify the location of the touch cover plate 195 in the vehicle without having to look for it. Figure 3As shown, the second surface 197 comprises a non-planar surface. For example, the contour of the non-planar surface can be customized based on various applications of the component and / or the contour can be customized to facilitate the user to locate the second surface 197 without having to find it.

[0055] In some embodiments, icons are disposed on the touch cover 195, and light exiting the second surface 143 of the light guide 142 passes through the film 170 and the icons on the touch cover 195 to illuminate the icons. For example, by disposing icons on a sheet adhesively coupled to the touch cover 195, the icons can be easily customized for each vehicle manufacturer, and the switch assembly 100 is efficiently manufactured.

[0056] In some embodiments, the flexible membrane 170 oscillates in the z direction in response to receiving vibration energy from the tactile actuator 160 via the light guide 142, and the oscillation is transmitted to the touch cover plate 195 to provide tactile feedback to the user. In addition, the tactile response of the switch assembly 100 is adjusted by selecting the light guide 142, the membrane 170 and the touch cover plate 195 with a certain stiffness.

[0057] In addition, according to some embodiments, in order to isolate the vibration of the light guide 142 and the touch cover plate 195 from the housing 102 and the PCB boards 110, 112 and to ensure that the light guide 142 and the touch overlap plate 195 do not rotate around the central axis AA, an interlocking mechanism is used to couple the light guide 142 and the touch cover plate 195. For example, Figure 3 , 6 , 9A, 11 and 12, the second surface 143 of the light guide 142 defines a second group of protrusions 157 extending axially away from the second surface 143. The second group of protrusions 157 includes two or more protrusions, and the protrusions 157 are spaced apart from each other. The protrusions 157 are radially disposed inwardly of and adjacent to the side edge 145 of the light guide 142. The flexible film 170 defines an opening 158 through which the protrusions 157 extend. Furthermore, the first surface 196 of the touch cover plate 195 defines a groove portion 159 extending axially into the first surface 196. The distal end of the protrusion 157 extends inside the groove portion 159, 259 and is located within the groove portion 159, 259. In Fig.9A , 12 In the embodiment shown in Figures 24 and 25, four recessed portions 159 are defined in the touch cover plate 195, and three protrusions 157 extend from the second surface 143 of the light guide 142. Having one or more additional recessed portions 159 allows the components to be standardized so that they can be used in different positions of the vehicle (e.g., left or right). However, in other embodiments, the interlocking mechanism may include one or more protrusions and recessed portions.

[0058] In some embodiments, a portion or all of the touch cover 195 is composed of a transparent or translucent material that allows light to pass through the touch cover 195. For example, the touch cover 195 can include a piece of transparent contoured glass. Other transparent or translucent materials can also be used, including other crystalline materials or plastics, such as polycarbonate. The corrugated properties of one side (the second side 197) of the touch cover 195 allow the user to move the finger back and forth to find the correct button position without having to exceed the force threshold to activate the switch.

[0059] The annular frame 180 includes an annular wall 181 and a sidewall 182 extending axially from adjacent a radially outer edge 183 of the annular wall 181. The annular wall 181 includes a radially inner edge 184 defining an opening 185 having a central axis BB. The annular wall 181 also defines one or more post openings 186 between the radially inner edge 184 and the radially outer edge 183. The annular frame 180 is coupled to the second wall 106 of the housing 102. When coupled together, an inner surface 187 of the sidewall 182 is disposed adjacent an outer surface 107 of the second wall 106. A portion of the membrane 170 adjacent a radially outer edge 175 of the membrane 170 is disposed between the annular wall 181 and a distal edge 172 of the second wall 106. The posts 173 pass through the openings 174 defined in the membrane 170 and engage within corresponding post openings 186 of the annular wall 181 to prevent movement of the annular frame 180 in the xy plane relative to the housing 102. When coupled, the axis BB of the annular frame 180 is coaxial with the axis AA of the housing 102. In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of the radially outer edge 175 of the membrane 170 is folded over the distal edge 172 of the second wall 106 and disposed between the inner surface 187 of the side wall 182 of the annular frame 180 and the outer surface 107 of the second wall 106. In addition, when the annular frame 180 is coupled to the housing 102, the protrusion 157 is radially disposed inwardly of the radially inner edge 184 of the annular wall 181.

[0060] Fastener openings 188 are defined in annular wall 181, and fastener openings 177 are defined by second wall 106 of housing 102. Fasteners 189 are engaged through the aligned pair of openings 188, 177 to couple annular frame 180 to housing 102. For example, in Figure 1-Figure 12In the illustrated embodiment, the annular wall 181 includes radial extensions 181a extending radially outward from the wall 181 and defining fastener openings 188. Also, radial extensions 106a extend radially outward from the wall 106 and define fastener openings 177. However, in other embodiments, the annular frame 180 is coupled to the housing 102 using other fastening means. For example, in some embodiments, the annular frame 180 is coupled to the housing 102 by fasteners extending through the sidewalls 182 of the annular frame 180 and the outer surface 107 of the second wall 106 of the housing 102. In other embodiments, the annular frame 180 is coupled to the housing 102 using a friction fit, snaps, clips, rivets, adhesives, or other suitable fastening mechanisms.

[0061] In some embodiments, one or more springs are disposed between the annular wall 181 of the annular frame 180 and the light guide 142 to urge the light guide 142 toward the second surface 123 of the second PCB 112. By disposing one or more springs between the annular wall 181 fixedly coupled to the housing 102 and the light guide 142, the one or more springs preload the force sensor 140. For example, the one or more springs may preload the force sensor to between 1 and 5 N. In one non-limiting example, the one or more springs preload the force sensor to 2.8 N. For example, in Figure 1-Figure 12 In the illustrated embodiment, the spring includes a coil spring 190 extending between a first surface 205 of the annular wall 181 and a second surface 143 of the light guide 142. An axial recess 206 is defined in a groove portion 207 defined by the second surface 143 of the light guide 142 and a side edge 145 of the light guide. The groove portion 207 has a surface axially spaced from the second surface 143 of the light guide 142 in a direction toward the first surface 144 of the light guide 142. The radially inward extension 204 extends radially inward from the radial inner edge 184 of the annular wall 181. According to some embodiments, the radially inward extension 204 also defines an axial recess 306. The axial recess 306 defined by the radially inward extension 204 is axially aligned with the axial recess 206 defined by the light guide 142, and the end of each spring 190 is located in the corresponding axially aligned axial recess 306 of the radially inward extension 204 and the axial recess 206 of the light guide 142 to prevent the helical spring 190 from moving in the xy plane. In addition, the membrane 170 defines a spring groove 178 extending radially inward from the radial outer edge 175 of the membrane 170, and the spring 190 extends through the groove 178 and is spaced apart from the radial outer edge 175 of the membrane 170 so as not to interfere with the oscillation of the membrane 170.

[0062] exist Figure 19A-Figure 19CIn the illustrated embodiment, the spring is a leaf spring 290. The leaf spring 290 includes a central portion 291 and leg portions 292a, 292b. The leg portions 292a, 292b extend circumferentially and radially inwardly from the central portion 291. The second surface 243 of the light guide 242 includes a plurality of posts 293 extending axially from the second surface 243, and the membrane 270 defines an opening 279 through which the posts 293 extend. The central portion 291 of each leaf spring 290 is coupled to the first surface 255 of the annular wall 281 of the annular frame 280, and the leg portions 292a, 292b engage the distal ends 294 of the posts 293. When assembled, the plane including the first surface 255 of the annular wall 281 (to which the central portion 291 of the leaf spring 290 is coupled) is axially located between the plane including the distal ends 294 of the posts 293 and the plane including the second surface 243 of the light guide 242. Thus, the leg portions 292a, 292b of the leaf spring 290 are biased toward the light guide 242 and urge the light guide 242 toward the second PCB 112. It should be understood that the post 293 may be separate from the light guide 242, or the post 293 may be integrally formed with the light guide 242.

[0063] Figures 20A-20D A leaf spring 390 according to another embodiment is shown. In this embodiment, the leaf spring 390 includes a central portion 391 and leg portions 392a, 392b extending circumferentially and radially inwardly from the central portion 391. Each leg portion 392a, 392b also includes an arcuate portion 393 having an apex 394 that is located in a plane spaced apart from a plane including the central portion 391. The central portion 391 is coupled to the first surface 355 of the annular wall 381, and the apex 394 of each arcuate portion 393 abuts the second surface 343 of the light guide 342. The arcuate portions 393 maintain a minimum axial spacing between the second surface 343 of the light guide 342 and the first surface 355 of the annular wall 381. Figures 20A-20D A leaf spring 390 according to another embodiment is shown. In this embodiment, the leaf spring 390 includes a central portion 391 and leg portions 392a, 392b extending circumferentially and radially inwardly from the central portion 391. Each leg portion 392a, 392b also includes an arcuate portion 393 having an apex 394 that is located in a plane spaced apart from a plane including the central portion 391. The central portion 391 is coupled to the first surface 355 of the annular wall 381, and the apex 394 of each arcuate portion 393 abuts the second surface 343 of the light guide 342. The arcuate portions 393 maintain a minimum axial spacing between the second surface 343 of the light guide 342 and the first surface 355 of the annular wall 381.

[0064] At least a portion of the leaf spring 390 is coupled to the annular frame 380. The radially inner edge 384 of the annular wall 381 includes one or more resilient tabs 375 extending axially from the radially inner edge 384 in a first direction (i.e., in a direction away from and orthogonal to the first surface 355 of the annular wall 381). Each resilient tab 375 has a shoulder 376 extending radially outward from the tab 375 toward the first surface 355 of the annular wall 381. Each shoulder 376 is axially spaced from the first surface 355 of the annular wall 381. The side wall 382 of the annular frame 380 also includes one or more tabs 378 extending radially inward from the inner surface 383 of the side wall 382. The one or more tabs 378 are axially spaced from the first surface 355 of the annular wall 381. The first surface 355 of the annular wall 381 includes one or more protrusions 379 extending axially from the first surface 355 in the first direction. The radially outer edge 331 of the central portion 391 of the leaf spring 390 is urged axially between the tab 378 and the first surface 355 of the annular wall 381, and the radially inner edge 332 of the central portion 391 is pressed against the resilient tab 375, and the resilient tab 375 is bent radially inward when the leaf spring 390 passes over the shoulder 376 and is disposed between the shoulder 376 and the first surface 355 of the annular wall 381. In addition, the concave surface of each arcuate portion 393 is positioned axially toward the first surface 355 of the annular wall 381 so that the apex 394 faces away from the first surface 355. The leaf spring 390 defines one or more openings 377 aligned with one or more protrusions 376, and the protrusions 376 extend through the openings 377 when the edges 331, 332 are disposed between the tabs 375, 378 and the first surface 355 of the annular wall 381. The tabs 375 , 378 hold the leaf spring 390 axially and radially adjacent the annular frame 380 , and the projection 376 engaged through the opening 377 prevents the leaf spring 390 from moving circumferentially relative to the annular frame 380 .

[0065] In other embodiments, the leaf spring 290, 390 is overmolded with a portion of the annular frame 280, 380 at its central portion 291, 391. Also, in some embodiments, the spring 290, 390 may be adhered, snapped into, or otherwise secured to the annular frame 280, 390.

[0066] Furthermore, according to various embodiments, the leaf springs 290 , 390 may include spring steel plates.

[0067] As described above, the central portion 201 of the touch cover plate 195 is disposed within the opening 185 defined by the radially inner edge 184 of the annular wall 181 and is coupled to the membrane 170. Fig.12As shown, the first surface 196 of the touch cover plate 195 defines a groove portion 199 near the radial outer edge 200 of the touch cover plate 195. The groove portion 199 and the radial outer edge 202 of the center portion 201 of the first surface 196 further define a plurality of recesses (or grooves) 203, which extend axially from the first surface 196 of the center portion 201 to the annular groove portion 199 and extend radially inward from the radial outer edge 202. In order to prevent the touch cover plate 195 from contacting the annular frame 180, the recesses 203 are radially inwardly spaced from the radial extension 204 of the annular wall 181 of the annular frame 180. In addition, the spacing T between the surface of the annular groove portion 199 and the surface of the center portion 201 is T Greater than the thickness T of the annular wall 181 A (measured in the z direction or axial direction). Also, the diameter (or width W) of the second surface 197 of the touch cover plate 195 T ) is greater than the diameter (or width W) of the annular wall 181 A ), so that when the assembly 100 is observed from the second surface 197 of the touch cover plate 195, the touch cover plate 195 hides the annular wall 181.

[0068] In some embodiments, such as described above, the distal edge 172 of the second wall 106 of the housing 102, the annular frame 180, the light guide 142, and the radially outer edge 200 of the touch cover plate 195 are generally circular. However, in other embodiments, these portions of the switch assembly can have non-circular shapes, such as triangles, rectangles, or other suitable polygons.

[0069] In other embodiments, the switch assembly includes only one PCB on which a force sensor is disposed. In such embodiments, the circuitry required to operate the switch is mounted on one PCB.

[0070] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the switch assembly may include only one PCB and one force sensor for applications where output from one force sensor (an output that is position independent) is desired.

[0071] In some embodiments, the switch assembly described above may be installed in a vehicle. For example, the switch assembly may be installed on a steering wheel, such as on the bevel or hub of the steering wheel, for controlling various vehicle systems. In other examples, the switch assembly may be installed on a door, a gear shifter, a dashboard, or any part of a vehicle where input may be provided and used to control one or more vehicle systems.

[0072] For example, in some embodiments, such as the above-described embodiments, the housing is connected to a trim in the vehicle rather than to a frame or bracket portion of the vehicle, which isolates the vibration of the tactile actuator from the rest of the vehicle. This arrangement also minimizes the gap between the edge of the trim and the outer edge of the assembly because the trim can move with the assembly. To connect the housing to the trim (or other portion of the vehicle), a boss 208 extending radially outward from the outer surface of the second wall is aligned with an adjacent opening in the portion of the vehicle (to which the switch assembly is coupled). Fasteners engage through the aligned openings to secure the assembly to the vehicle.

[0073] Fig.14 A block diagram of an electrical control system 500 according to one embodiment is shown. The electrical control system 500 may include a computing unit 506, a system clock 508, and communication hardware 512. In its most basic form, the computing unit 506 includes a processor 522 and a system memory 523 disposed on the second PCB 112. The processor 522 may be a standard programmable processor that performs arithmetic and logic operations required to operate the electrical control system 500. The processor 522 may be configured to execute a program code encoded in a tangible computer-readable medium. For example, the processor 522 may execute a program code stored in a system memory 523, which may be a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory. The memory 523 may be contained in a non-temporary computer-readable medium, and the memory 523 stores instructions executed by the processor 522. The system memory 523 is only an example of a tangible computer-readable medium. In one aspect, the computing unit 506 may be considered as an integrated device such as firmware. Other examples of tangible computer-readable media include floppy disks, CD-ROMs, DVDs, hard drives, flash memory, or any other machine-readable storage medium wherein, when the program code is loaded into and executed by a machine (e.g., processors 522, 532), the machine becomes an apparatus for practicing the disclosed subject matter.

[0074] In addition, processor 522 is in electrical communication with force sensor 140. In some embodiments, system 500 also includes a transceiver in electrical communication with processor 522 and one or more vehicle systems. And, in some embodiments, system 500 also includes a power amplifier 530 in electrical communication with processor 522 and tactile actuator 160.

[0075] However, in other embodiments, the system 500 includes two or more processors and / or memories, and the processors and / or memories may be disposed on the first and / or second PCBs. Also, in other embodiments, the assembly includes one or more PCBs on which one or more force sensors, one or more memories, and one or more processors are disposed.

[0076] Various aspects of the present invention are described above with reference to the flowchart and / or block diagram of the method, device (system) and computer program product according to an embodiment of the present invention. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart and / or block diagram, and the combination of the blocks in the flowchart and / or block diagram can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer or other programmable data processing device to generate a machine, so that the instructions executed by the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing device create a means for implementing the functions / actions specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram blocks.

[0077] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable medium, which may direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to work in a specific manner, so that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce industrial products, including instructions for implementing the functions / actions specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram blocks.

[0078] Computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operating steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other devices to produce a computer-implemented process, so that the instructions executed on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide a process for implementing the functions / actions specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram blocks.

[0079] Fig.15 A flow chart of instructions stored in the first memory 523 for execution by the first processor 522 according to one embodiment is shown. The instructions cause the first processor 522 to: (1) receive a signal from each of the one or more force sensors 140 associated with a force received by each of the force sensors 140, as shown in step 1102, (2) determine a magnitude and / or x, y position of the force associated with the received force signal, as shown in step 1104, and (3) transmit the magnitude and / or x, y position of the force to a second processor 532 disposed on the first PCB 110, as shown in step 1106. Placing the force sensors 140 in close proximity to the first processor 522 that initially processes the signals from the force sensors 140 reduces the possibility of noise in the signals.

[0080] Fig.16A flow chart of instructions stored in the second memory 533 for execution by the second processor 532 is shown. The instructions stored in the second memory 533 cause the second processor 532 to: (1) receive the magnitude of force and / or the x, y position from the first processor 522, as shown in step 1202, (2) identify a tactile feedback response associated with the magnitude of force and / or the x, y position, as shown in step 1204, (3) transmit the tactile feedback response to the tactile actuator 160, as shown in step 1206, and (4) transmit the x, y position and / or the magnitude of force to another vehicle system, as shown in step 1208. The switch assembly 100 according to one embodiment can be configured to control up to 32 functions.

[0081] Each force sensor 140 receives a portion of the force applied to the touch cover 195, and the force received by each sensor 140 is processed by the first processor 522 to determine the location and magnitude of the applied force. The location of the force is determined by the portion of the force received by each force sensor 140 and their known positions relative to each other. For example, in Fig.17 In the illustrated embodiment, the force received by each sensor 140 (shown on the x-axis) is correlated to resistance (shown on the y-axis). The location of the applied force is measured in one dimension (such as the x or y dimension) or two dimensions (such as the x and y directions or planes), and the magnitude of the force is measured in the z-direction. Figure 1-Figure 12 In the embodiment shown in , there are four force sensors 140, and the position of the force is determined by quad-angulation of the force signals received from each sensor 140. In a further or alternative embodiment, the position of the force is determined by triangulation using three force sensors. For example, if one of the four force sensors 140 fails during operation, the position is determined by triangulation using the force signals received by the remaining three sensors 140.

[0082] The switch assembly 100 may also sense the time that a force is applied at a particular location. For example, the memory 523 may store process parameters, such as a range of force changes with a time value indicating that an input signal has been received. Input received outside of this range may be ignored by the system as an inadvertent contact with the switch assembly 100. For example, the upper limit of the input range may be a 10N force applied for 20 seconds or less. In addition, the switch assembly 100 may also set a force threshold (e.g., 2.5N) for locking the input area around the force input location, and a second higher threshold (e.g., 3N) for enabling the force received within the input area of ​​the system 100. Additional description of force thresholds and virtual input areas can be found in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2015 / 0097791 and 2015 / 0097795, published on April 9, 2015, which are included in the appendix of this application.

[0083] In response to the magnitude, location, and / or duration of the applied force satisfying the input parameters, the switch assembly 100 generates a tactile and / or audible feedback signal responsive to the detected force. For example, the tactile and / or audible feedback signal may be proportional to the force received. Figures 18A-18D As shown, each touch event (e.g., Fig.18A Press down as shown, Fig.18B The lift shown, Fig. 18C The end of list and Fig.18D The press and hold (shown) is initiated by different user interactions (e.g., different force values ​​and / or duration of touch), and thus can trigger different tactile and / or audible outputs fed back to the user. Exemplary tactile and / or audible feedback signal responses are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2015 / 0097794 and 2015 / 0097793, published on April 9, 2015, which are included in the appendix of this application.

[0084] Figure 21-Figure 32 An alternative embodiment of the switch assembly is shown that also includes a display assembly. In this embodiment, the light source (e.g., LED 146) can be omitted, and the light guide 142, 142', 242 can be composed entirely or partially of a light-impermeable material. The light guide 142, 142', 242 becomes a plate for transferring force from the display assembly touch cover plate 295 of the display assembly 1000 to the force sensor 140, and no longer needs to transmit or transmit light. In various embodiments, the light guide 142, 142', 242 can be composed of materials such as metal, plastic, thermoplastic, etc.

[0085] Typically, the touch cover plate 195 of the above-described embodiment of the switch assembly 100 is replaced with a display assembly 1000 that includes a display assembly touch cover plate 295. The display assembly 1000 may have its own lighting system, in which case the light guides 142, 142', 242 would simply be considered a force touch plate that transmits force to the force sensor 140, and the light source (e.g., LED 146) may be omitted. This allows multiple uses to be obtained from the same switch by changing the different functions of the buttons and providing a visual indication of activity. As a non-limiting example, the display 1010 of the display assembly 1000 may be programmed to display different button functions depending on the vehicle mode. For example, one button may be displayed for turning on cruise control, and then when activated, the entire switch may display other cruise control options such as changing speed and canceling.

[0086] In some embodiments, the display assembly touch cover plate 295 is at least partially composed of a transparent or translucent material (e.g., glass) sheet. Other transparent / translucent materials can be used, including other crystalline materials or plastics, such as polycarbonate. In some cases, the display assembly touch cover plate 295 has a wavy shape. This wavy shape characteristic is different from other typical flat glass displays, such as touch screen smartphones, and allows the display assembly 1000 to maintain surface features that allow users to move their fingers back and forth to find the correct button location without exceeding the force threshold to activate the switch.

[0087] Fig.21 and Fig. 22 Different external views of the switch assembly 100 further comprising a display assembly 1000 are shown. Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, the housing 102 of the switch assembly 100 is connected to the display assembly 1000 through the light guide 142, 142', 242' and / or the film 170. As described herein, the display assembly 1000 also includes a display assembly touch cover plate 295. Fig.32 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the display assembly touch cover plate 295 may include a second surface 297, which includes one or more wavy surfaces 298, 299 and a first surface 296. As described above, the touch cover plate 295 of the display assembly 1000 is at least partially composed of a transparent or translucent material (e.g., glass, crystal material, plastic (e.g., polycarbonate), etc.). The wavy surfaces 298, 299 of the display assembly touch cover plate 295 provide the user with the ability to "feel" the correct position to activate the switch without having to look at the switch. At least the central portion 301 of the display assembly first housing 1002 is coupled to the membrane 170 or the light guide 142, 142', 242 of the switch assembly 100. When the display assembly touch cover plate 295 receives an input force from the user, the force is transmitted to the membrane 170 or the light guide 142, 142', 242 through the central portion 301 of the display assembly first housing 1002. In one embodiment, the second surface 198 of the film 170 and the central portion 301 of the first housing 1002 of the display assembly are adhered together. In another embodiment, the light guide 142, 142', 242 and the central portion 301 of the first housing 1002 of the display are adhered together.

[0088] In some embodiments, the texture of at least a portion of the second surface 297 of the display assembly contact cover plate 295 is different from the texture of the portion of the vehicle near the display assembly 1000 to allow the user to identify the location of the display assembly contact cover plate 295 in the vehicle without having to look for it. And, in some embodiments, such as Fig.32As shown, the second surface 297 may include one or more non-planar surface portions 298, 299. For example, the contours of the non-planar surface portions 298, 299 may be customized based on various applications of the assembly and / or customized to facilitate user positioning of the second surface without having to look for it.

[0089] like Figure 23-Figure 24 As shown, the display assembly 1000 is composed of a display second housing 1001, a display first housing 1002, a display power / data connector 1003, and a display assembly touch cover plate 295. The light guide 142, 142', 242 of the switch assembly 100 is used as a force transfer plate to transfer force from the display assembly touch cover plate 295 to the force sensor 140. As described herein, in some cases, there is no light source for illuminating the light guide 142, 142', 242 in the switch assembly 100, and in these instances, the light guide is not required to be composed of a light-transmitting or light-transmissive material. The central portion 301 of the display assembly first housing 1002 is configured to transfer force from the display assembly touch cover plate 295 to the light guide 142, 142', 242 of the switch assembly 100. In one embodiment, the central portion 301 interacts with the light guide 142, 142', 242 through the groove 259. Display power / data connections 1003 are used to connect the display to a power source and / or other vehicle systems, a vehicle bus, and / or the electrical control system 500 .

[0090] Reference now Figure 25-27 , flange 1004 is a flange onto which the display assembly touch cover plate 295 is press-fitted, allowing force to be transferred from the touch cover layer to the upper shell, then to the lower shell, and then to the light guide 142, 142',, 242 and force sensor 140, so that the force applied to the display assembly touch cover plate 295 bypasses the display 1010. Flexible connector 1011 connects the display 1010 to a printed circuit board (PCB) 1012 located within the display assembly 1000. The display 1010 and one or more light sources (e.g., LEDs) are held in place by a display bracket 1013. Although in Fig. 27 1010. The display support 1013 has a second surface 1015. The display support 1013 may be made of various materials such as plastic, metal, etc. The display support 1013 has a thickness of , and the display 1010 is prevented from directly contacting the display second housing 1001 by the thickness of the display support 1013.

[0091] PCB 1012 also includes components and circuit 1014. The circuit 1014 may include a driver for one or more light sources. In one embodiment, the circuit 1014 may include a display assembly processor. The display lower housing 1002 may also include one or more openings 1005. These openings 1005 are generally used to fit circuit components to the underside of the PCB 1012. The openings 1005 can also provide heat dissipation and ventilation for heat generated by one or more light sources and / or the PCB 1012. One or more fasteners 1006 are used to hold the display assembly 1000 together. The fastening means may include screws, bolts and nuts, friction fits, snaps, clips, rivets, adhesives or other suitable fastening mechanisms.

[0092] The figures show the switch assembly viewed in a vertical orientation, with the central longitudinal axis AA oriented vertically. However, the orientation shown in the figures should not limit how the switch assembly is oriented within a vehicle. For example, in various embodiments, the switch assembly is disposed in the vehicle such that the central longitudinal axis AA is horizontal or has a horizontal component relative to the ground.

[0093] The terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are also intended to include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that when used in this specification, the terms "include" and / or "comprise" specify the presence of the features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof.

[0094] The corresponding structures, materials, actions, and equivalents of all method or step-plus-function elements in the following claims are intended to include any structure, material, or action for performing a function in conjunction with other claimed elements specifically claimed. The description of the present invention has been given for the purpose of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the disclosed form. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. The embodiments are selected and described in order to best explain the principles and practical applications of the present invention and to enable others skilled in the art to understand the various embodiments of the present invention with various modifications suitable for the intended specific use.

Claims

1. A switch assembly, comprising: a housing having one or more walls defining a chamber; A first printed circuit board PCB is disposed in the chamber, the first printed circuit board having a first plane facing a first axial direction and a second plane facing a second axial direction, wherein the second axial direction is opposite to the first axial direction; a second printed circuit board disposed adjacent to the first printed circuit board, the second printed circuit board having a first plane facing a second plane of the first printed circuit board along the first axial direction and a second plane facing the second axial direction, the second printed circuit board comprising one or more force sensors disposed on the second plane; as well as at least one support surface facing in a second axial direction, the support surface being fixedly coupled to the housing, the support surface being axially disposed between the second plane of the first printed circuit board and the first plane of the second printed circuit board, in: at least a portion of the first planar surface of the second printed circuit board engages the support surface, and the first printed circuit board and the second printed circuit board are electrically coupled together; Also included is a flexible film having a first surface facing a second surface of the second printed circuit board in the first axial direction; Also included is a display assembly, the display assembly comprising at least a display assembly housing, wherein at least a portion of the display assembly housing is in contact with the second surface of the flexible film, the second surface of the flexible film facing the second axial direction.

2. The switch assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The second printed circuit board includes a first processor in electrical communication with a first memory, the first memory storing instructions executed by the first processor, wherein the instructions cause the first processor to: receiving a signal from each of the one or more force sensors, the signal being associated with a force received by each force sensor, determining the force magnitude and / or x,y position associated with the received force signal, and The force magnitude and / or x,y position is communicated to a second processor disposed on the first printed circuit board.

3. The switch assembly according to claim 2, wherein: A second processor disposed on the first printed circuit board is in electrical communication with a second memory, the second memory storing instructions executed by the second processor, wherein: The instructions stored in the second memory cause the second processor to: receiving a force magnitude from the first processor, identifying a tactile feedback response associated with the magnitude of the force, and The haptic feedback response is communicated to a haptic actuator. 4 . The switch assembly according to claim 3 , further comprising a light guide disposed adjacent to the second surface of the second printed circuit board, the light guide having a first surface facing the first axial direction and a second surface facing the second axial direction. 5 . The switch assembly according to claim 4 , further comprising a light source, wherein the light source is disposed on the second surface of the second printed circuit board near the light guide member.

6. The switch assembly according to claim 5, wherein: The first surface of the light guide includes a force concentrator extending from the first surface of the light guide in the first axial direction, wherein the force concentrator is axially aligned with the force sensor and transmits a force incident on a second surface of the light guide to the force sensor.

7. The switch assembly according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein: The second printed circuit board defines an opening, and at least a portion of the tactile stimulator extends through the opening and is disposed proximate to the first surface of the light guide.

8. The switch assembly of claim 7, wherein: The one or more walls of the housing include a first wall extending orthogonally to the first axial direction and the second axial direction and a second wall extending from the first wall along the second axial direction, the second wall having a distal edge axially spaced apart from the first wall. A plurality of posts extend from a distal edge of the second wall along a second axial direction and are circumferentially spaced apart from one another, The flexible membrane defines a plurality of openings, and The post of the housing extends through the opening defined by the flexible membrane.

9. The switch assembly according to claim 8 further includes an annular frame having an annular wall and a side wall, the annular wall having a radial outer edge and a radial inner edge, the radial inner edge defining an opening having a central axis extending therethrough, and the side wall of the annular frame extending from the annular wall in the direction of the central axis near the radial outer edge of the annular wall, wherein the annular frame is connected near the distal edge of the second wall of the housing so that the radial outer edge of the flexible membrane is disposed between the annular frame and the second wall of the housing.

10. The switch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the display assembly further comprises a display, one or more light sources, a display assembly printed circuit board and a display assembly touch cover plate, wherein the display assembly touch cover plate has a first surface facing the first axial direction and a second surface facing the second axial direction.

11. The switch assembly according to claim 7, wherein: The first printed circuit board has a first electrical connector extending from a second surface of the first printed circuit board, the second printed circuit board has a second electrical connector extending from a first surface of the second printed circuit board, and the first electrical connector of the first printed circuit board and the second electrical connector of the second printed circuit board are engaged with each other to electrically connect the first printed circuit board and the second printed circuit board.

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