High-performance silica gel key structure for automobile

By employing a composite mechanical connection and integrated functional design, the problems of unstable connection, limited functionality, and poor electrical contact in traditional automotive silicone button structures under complex in-vehicle environments have been solved, achieving button stability and reliability, and improving user experience and safety.

CN224217399UActive Publication Date: 2026-05-08DONG GUAN DA LI WEI SILICONE TECH CO LTD
View PDF 0 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
DONG GUAN DA LI WEI SILICONE TECH CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-06-06
Publication Date
2026-05-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional automotive silicone button structures suffer from unstable mechanical connections in complex in-vehicle environments, making them prone to loosening or detachment. They also have limited functionality, low visibility at night, and are susceptible to poor electrical contact, affecting operational reliability and safety.

Method used

It adopts a composite mechanical connection structure, integrates light indicator module and standardized electrical interface, and ensures the stability and reliability of button through the double locking design of stop block and U-shaped connecting plate, combined with the support component composed of convex sliding rod and slider. The electrical connection stability and moisture-proof performance are achieved through axisymmetric connecting plug.

Benefits of technology

It significantly improves the reliability and user experience of buttons in complex in-vehicle environments, ensures a long-term stable connection between buttons and the controller housing, provides clear optical feedback and stable electrical connections, reduces the risk of short circuits, and improves driving safety.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure CN224217399U_ABST
    Figure CN224217399U_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of silica gel keys, and discloses a high-performance silica gel key structure for an automobile, which comprises a supporting plate, a controller shell, a sliding rod fixing seat, a pressing assembly and the like. The problems that a traditional key is unstable in mechanical connection, single in function and insufficient in electrical connection reliability are solved, a check block on the side face of a controller shell, a U-shaped connecting plate and a clamping block form a double-locking structure, the anti-vibration performance is improved, an inverted-T-shaped sliding rod on the top of a sliding rod fixing base and a sliding block form a supporting assembly, it is ensured that a pressing block moves vertically and stably, and the reliability of the pressing block is improved. The top of the pressing block is integrated with linearly distributed indicating lamps, the operation state is visualized, the bottom of the controller shell is axially symmetrically connected with a plug mounting groove and a parallel plug, and the vibration resistance and moisture resistance of electrical connection are enhanced through a standardized plugging interface.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of silicone button technology, specifically a high-performance silicone button structure for automobiles. Background Technology

[0002] Silicone buttons are functional buttons made primarily of silicone material through a molding process. They possess characteristics such as a soft touch, water and dust resistance, and resistance to high and low temperatures. They are widely used in human-computer interaction scenarios for electronic devices. In the automotive field, with the increasing complexity and intelligence of in-vehicle electronic systems, drivers have placed higher demands on the accuracy, durability, and environmental adaptability of button operation. For example, functions such as car air conditioning control, audio adjustment, and in-vehicle navigation all rely on buttons for rapid response. The high temperature, vibration, and humidity conditions inside the car, as well as scenarios where drivers operate while wearing gloves, all require buttons to have stable mechanical properties and reliable electrical connection performance. Therefore, developing a high-performance silicone button structure that adapts to the complex use environment of automobiles has become a key requirement for improving the in-vehicle interactive experience.

[0003] Traditional automotive silicone button structures generally suffer from the following defects: Firstly, their mechanical connection stability is insufficient. Using simple snap-fit ​​or adhesive fixing methods, buttons are prone to loosening or falling off due to vibration after prolonged use, affecting operational reliability. Secondly, their functional design is limited and lacks environmental adaptability optimization. For example, they lack integrated light indicator modules, resulting in low visibility during nighttime operation, and the button travel feedback is vague, making it difficult for drivers to accurately judge the operating status by touch. Furthermore, traditional structures often use welding or contact-type electrical connections, which are prone to poor contact and short circuits in humid or vibrating environments, leading to button malfunctions or even affecting the safety of the vehicle's systems. These technical shortcomings not only reduce user experience but may also cause operational errors during driving, increasing safety hazards. Therefore, we propose a high-performance silicone button structure for automobiles. Utility Model Content

[0004] (a) Technical problems to be solved

[0005] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a high-performance silicone button structure for automobiles, solving the aforementioned problems.

[0006] (II) Technical Solution

[0007] To achieve the above-mentioned objectives, this utility model provides the following technical solution: a high-performance silicone button structure for automobiles, comprising:

[0008] The support plate and the sliding rod fixing seat are provided. The top of the support plate has a through groove, and the controller housing is installed in the groove of the support plate. The bottom of the sliding rod fixing seat is connected to a fixing block through a connecting block, and the fixing block is on the top of the controller housing.

[0009] A fixing component is disposed on the side of the controller housing. The fixing component includes a stop block and a connecting structure. The stop block is disposed on the side of the connecting structure.

[0010] A support assembly is provided on the top of the sliding rod fixing seat. The top of the sliding rod fixing seat has an installation groove. The support assembly is disposed in the installation groove on the top of the sliding rod fixing seat. A support rod is provided on the top of the support assembly.

[0011] A push assembly is provided on the top of the support rod. The push assembly includes a push block and a light structure. The light structure is provided on the top of the push block.

[0012] The connection structure is located at the bottom of the controller housing.

[0013] Preferably, a fixing block is fixedly installed at the top center of the controller housing, and a connecting block is fixedly installed at the top center of the fixing block, with the top of the connecting block being fixedly connected to the bottom of the sliding rod fixing seat.

[0014] Preferably, the stop is fixedly installed on the side of the controller housing, and the stop is axially symmetrically distributed on the side of the controller housing.

[0015] Preferably, the connecting structure includes a connecting plate and a locking block. The connecting plate is U-shaped, with the top side of the U-shape of the connecting plate fixedly connected to the side of the fixing block, the bottom of the connecting plate connected to the top of the support plate, the lower surface of the side of the top end of the U-shape of the connecting plate connected to the top of the stop block, and a locking block rotatably installed in the recess of the U-shape of the connecting plate. The other end of the locking block is engaged with the bottom side of the fixing block.

[0016] Preferably, the support assembly includes a sliding rod and a slider. The sliding rod is fixedly installed in a mounting groove opened at the top of the sliding rod fixing seat. The sliding rod is convex in shape. The slider is slidably installed on the top of the sliding rod, and a support rod is fixedly installed at the center of the top of the slider.

[0017] Preferably, the lighting structure includes an indicator light mounting slot and an indicator light. A push block is fixedly installed on the top of the support rod. The top of the push block has an indicator light mounting slot. Multiple sets of linearly distributed indicator lights are fixedly installed inside the bottom of the indicator light mounting slot.

[0018] Preferably, the connection structure includes a connector mounting slot and a connector. The bottom of the controller housing has a set of connector mounting slots that are symmetrically distributed along an axis, and a set of parallel connectors are fixedly installed in the connector mounting slots.

[0019] (III) Beneficial Effects

[0020] Compared with the prior art, this utility model provides a high-performance silicone button structure for automobiles, which has the following advantages:

[0021] 1. This high-performance silicone button structure for automobiles significantly improves the reliability and user experience of buttons in complex in-vehicle environments through innovative composite mechanical connections, integrated functional design, and standardized electrical interfaces. It employs a dual-locking structure of stop blocks and U-shaped connecting plates combined with rotating blocks to form a rigid support system of "frame + buckle," capable of withstanding high-frequency vibration and impact, ensuring long-term stable connection between the buttons and the controller housing. Addressing the issues of low visibility and unclear tactile feedback of traditional buttons at night, the device integrates multiple linearly distributed indicator lights on the top of the button, providing real-time feedback on the operating status through lighting modes. A support component consisting of a convex sliding rod and a slider provides stable travel guidance for the button. It uses an axisymmetric connector mounting slot and a parallel plug combination, achieving electrical connection through a standardized plug-in interface. Combined with a sealed housing design, it effectively improves vibration resistance and moisture resistance, reducing the risk of short circuits. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model;

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the connector plug of this utility model;

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting plate of this utility model;

[0025] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A magnified view of part A in the diagram.

[0026] In the diagram: 1. Support plate; 2. Controller housing; 3. Stop block; 4. Connecting plate; 5. Locking block; 6. Fixing block; 7. Connecting block; 8. Sliding rod fixing seat; 9. Sliding rod; 10. Sliding block; 11. Support rod; 12. Pressing block; 13. Indicator light mounting slot; 14. Indicator light; 15. Connecting plug mounting slot; 16. Connecting plug. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0028] Please see Figure 1-4A high-performance silicone button structure for automotive applications, comprising:

[0029] The support plate 1 and the sliding rod fixing seat 8 are provided. The top of the support plate 1 has a through groove, and the controller housing 2 is installed in the groove of the support plate 1. The bottom of the sliding rod fixing seat 8 is connected to the fixing block 6 through the connecting block 7. The fixing block 6 is on the top of the controller housing 2.

[0030] A fixing component is provided on the side of the controller housing 2. The fixing component includes a stop block 3 and a connecting structure. The stop block 3 is provided on the side of the connecting structure.

[0031] A support assembly is provided on the top of the sliding rod fixing seat 8. The top of the sliding rod fixing seat 8 has an installation groove. The support assembly is installed in the installation groove on the top of the sliding rod fixing seat 8. A support rod 11 is provided on the top of the support assembly.

[0032] The push assembly is located on the top of the support rod 11. The push assembly includes a push block 12 and a light structure. The top of the push block 12 is provided with a light structure.

[0033] The connection structure is located at the bottom of the controller housing 2.

[0034] Furthermore, a fixing block 6 is fixedly installed at the top center of the controller housing 2, and a connecting block 7 is fixedly installed at the top center of the fixing block 6. The top of the connecting block 7 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the sliding rod fixing seat 8. The vertical rigid connection between the fixing block 6 and the connecting block 7 not only bears the weight of the sliding rod fixing seat 8, but also, through the integrated structural design, evenly transmits the downward pressing force of the push block 12 to the trigger mechanism inside the controller housing 2, avoiding the stress concentration problem caused by traditional single-point connection. In addition, the top surface of the fixing block 6 and the bottom surface of the connecting block 7 are fixed by thread or injection molding fitting process to ensure that they do not loosen in high-frequency vibration and improve the durability of the mechanical connection.

[0035] Furthermore, the stop block 3 is fixedly installed on the side of the controller housing 2, and the stop block 3 is symmetrically distributed on the side of the controller housing 2. The stop block 3 is symmetrically distributed on both sides of the controller housing 2. In addition to forming a support frame with the connecting plate 4, it can also serve as an installation positioning reference. During the assembly process, the symmetrical stop block 3 is precisely aligned with the slot of the support plate 1 to ensure that the lateral position of the controller housing 2 is fixed and to avoid button jamming due to installation deviation. At the same time, the rigid material of the stop block 3 can buffer external impacts and protect the internal electronic components from collision damage.

[0036] Furthermore, the connection structure includes a connecting plate 4 and a locking block 5. The connecting plate 4 is U-shaped. The top side of the U-shape of the connecting plate 4 is fixedly connected to the side of the fixing block 6. The bottom of the connecting plate 4 is connected to the top of the support plate 1. The lower surface of the side of one end of the top of the U-shape of the connecting plate 4 is connected to the top of the stop block 3. The locking block 5 is rotatably installed in the recess of the U-shape of the connecting plate 4. The other end of the locking block 5 is connected to the bottom side of the fixing block 6. A rotating shaft is provided in the U-shaped recess of the connecting plate 4. The locking block 5 is hinged to the connecting plate 4 through a shaft pin to form a rotatable locking structure. When it is necessary to remove the button, simply push the locking block 5 upward to disengage it from the latching groove of the fixing block 6, and the connecting plate 4 and the controller housing 2 can be quickly separated, which is convenient for later maintenance or replacement of parts. This "quick-release" design cannot be achieved in traditional adhesive or welding structures, which significantly improves the convenience of maintenance.

[0037] Furthermore, the support assembly includes a sliding rod 9 and a slider 10. The sliding rod 9 is fixedly installed in the mounting groove opened on the top of the sliding rod fixing seat 8. The sliding rod 9 is convex in shape, and the slider 10 is slidably installed on the top of the sliding rod 9. A support rod 11 is fixedly installed in the center of the top of the slider 10. The convex cross section of the sliding rod 9 and the groove of the slider 10 form a "T-shaped guide rail" fit. This structure not only restricts the lateral displacement of the slider 10, but also provides space for the elastic deformation of the silicone material through the gap between the bottom surface of the boss and the bottom of the mounting groove. When the pressing block 12 is pressed, the slider 10 moves down along the convex sliding rod 9, and the bottom surface of the boss gradually approaches the bottom of the mounting groove. The button travel is controlled by mechanical limit, avoiding excessive pressing and damage to the internal contacts, while providing a clearer "bottoming feedback".

[0038] Furthermore, the lighting structure includes an indicator light mounting slot 13 and indicator lights 14. A push block 12 is fixedly installed on the top of the support rod 11. The top of the push block 12 has an indicator light mounting slot 13. Multiple sets of linearly distributed indicator lights 14 are fixedly installed inside the bottom of the indicator light mounting slot 13. The indicator lights 14 are arranged in a linear array within the indicator light mounting slot 13. Functional status coding can be achieved through different combinations of light groups on and off. For example, a single light constantly on indicates that the function is on, multiple lights lighting up sequentially indicates gear adjustment, and a flashing mode indicates a fault warning. This visual feedback design makes up for the shortcomings of traditional buttons that have no status display. Especially at night or when the driver's line of sight cannot directly see the buttons, the operation result can be quickly confirmed by peripheral vision, improving driving safety.

[0039] Furthermore, the connection structure includes a connector mounting slot 15 and a connector 16. The bottom of the controller housing 2 has a set of connector mounting slots 15 that are symmetrically distributed. A set of parallel connectors 16 are fixedly installed in the connector mounting slots 15. The symmetrical design of the connector mounting slots 15 not only facilitates blind insertion alignment, but also disperses the current load through the double row of parallel connectors 16, reducing the contact pressure of a single connector. The connectors use gold-plated contacts to enhance conductivity and corrosion resistance. Together with the sealing ring at the bottom of the housing, a double waterproof barrier is formed to ensure the stability of the electrical connection in a humid environment and avoid the contact problems caused by corrosion of traditional solder joints.

[0040] Structural Description:

[0041] Support plate 1: Support plate 1 is the basic load-bearing component of the button structure. A through slot is opened at the top to fix the controller housing 2, forming a rigid support frame. Its material must have high strength and deformation resistance to ensure the overall structural stability.

[0042] Controller housing 2: Controller housing 2 is the core functional carrier. It has a built-in circuit module and is connected to the vehicle system through the bottom connector 16. The top central fixing block 6 is linked with the sliding rod fixing seat 8 to realize the integration of mechanical and electrical functions.

[0043] Block 3: Block 3 is symmetrically distributed on the side of the controller housing 2, forming a double locking structure with the connecting plate 4. The axisymmetric design disperses vibration stress and enhances impact resistance.

[0044] Connecting plate 4: The connecting plate 4 is U-shaped, with the top fixed to the fixing block 6 and the bottom connected to the support plate 1. The recessed part is hinged to the clip 5 to form a quick-release structure, which takes into account both stability and ease of maintenance.

[0045] Card block 5: Card block 5 is connected to the connecting plate 4 via a rotating shaft, and its end is fastened to the fixing block 6. It can be manually rotated to unlock, enabling quick disassembly of the button module.

[0046] Fixed block 6: Fixed block 6 is located at the top center of the controller housing 2 and is rigidly connected to the sliding rod fixing seat 8 through the connecting block 7, transmitting the pressing force and limiting the displacement range;

[0047] Connecting block 7: Connecting block 7 is vertically fixed to the top of fixing block 6. Its height and shape design ensure the precise positioning of sliding rod fixing seat 8.

[0048] Sliding rod fixing seat 8: The top of the sliding rod fixing seat 8 has an installation groove to accommodate the sliding rod 9, and the bottom is fixed by the connecting block 7, forming the installation base of the support component;

[0049] Sliding rod 9: The sliding rod 9 is convex in shape, which limits the lateral offset of the slider 10 and provides vertical guidance. The bottom surface of the boss controls the travel of the button.

[0050] Slider 10: Slider 10 slides along sliding rod 9, and is connected to support rod 11 at the top. The internal groove cooperates with the U-shaped sliding rod 9 to ensure motion accuracy.

[0051] Support rod 11: Support rod 11 connects slider 10 and push block 12, transmits pressing force and maintains vertical movement trajectory;

[0052] Button 12: Button 12 is made of silicone and has an integrated indicator light 14 on the top. It is soft to the touch and provides optical feedback.

[0053] Indicator light mounting slot 13: The indicator light mounting slot 13 is located on the top of the push block 12 and has multiple sets of linearly arranged indicator lights 14 embedded in it to display the operation status through the light mode;

[0054] Indicator 14: Indicator 14 uses a high-brightness LED and supports multiple on / off combination codes to enhance nighttime visibility;

[0055] Connector mounting slot 15: Connector mounting slot 15 is symmetrically opened at the bottom of the controller housing 2. The standardized design facilitates plug alignment and installation.

[0056] Connector 16: Connector 16 is fixed parallel to the mounting groove 15. Gold-plated contacts improve conductivity, and the sealed design is moisture-proof and dust-proof.

[0057] Working principle: The through slot at the top of the support plate 1 is used to fix the controller housing 2, forming a basic support frame. The controller housing 2 is connected to the vehicle circuit through the bottom connector mounting slot 15 and connector 16 to ensure electrical stability. The stop blocks 3 are symmetrically distributed on the side of the controller housing 2, forming a double locking structure together with the U-shaped connecting plate 4. The U-shaped top of the connecting plate 4 is fastened to the bottom side of the fixing block 6 through the locking block 5 to form a rigid connection. When the button is subjected to vibration and impact, the cooperation of the stop blocks 3 and locking blocks 5 can disperse the stress and prevent the controller housing 2 from shifting or loosening. The fixing block 6 is fixed to the bottom of the sliding rod fixing seat 8 through the connecting block 7, transmitting mechanical pressure to the support assembly. The U-shaped sliding rod 9 at the top of the sliding rod fixing seat 8 provides vertical guidance for the slider 10, ensuring the stability of the stroke of the button 12. When the slider 10 slides up and down along the sliding rod 9, its U-shaped structure restricts lateral displacement, so that the support rod 11 can only move vertically. This design avoids the jamming caused by lateral force in traditional silicone buttons. To address the issue of lag and provide clear tactile feedback, when the user presses the actuating block 12, the support rod 11 pushes the slider 10 downwards until the actuating block 12 contacts the trigger contact on the top of the controller housing 2. Upon release, the elasticity of the silicone material causes the slider 10 to return to its original position, completing one operation cycle. The indicator light mounting slot 13 on the top of the actuating block 12 contains multiple linearly distributed indicator lights 14, whose lighting modes are controlled by the circuitry within the controller housing 2. The indicator lights 14 use high-brightness LEDs to ensure clear visibility in bright light or at night, solving the problem of traditional buttons being difficult to operate in low light. The standardized interface of the connector 16: The axially symmetrical connector mounting slot 15 at the bottom of the controller housing 2 is embedded with a parallel connector 16, enabling quick installation and replacement through a plug-in design. The symmetrical layout of the connectors avoids mis-insertion, and the parallel arrangement enhances the contact area, reducing signal interruption caused by vibration. The connector 16 is surrounded by sealant to prevent humid air from entering the controller housing 2, reducing the risk of short circuits.

[0058] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A high-performance silicone button structure for automobiles, characterized in that: include: The support plate (1) and the sliding rod fixing seat (8) are provided with a through groove at the top of the support plate (1), and the controller housing (2) is provided in the groove of the support plate (1). The bottom of the sliding rod fixing seat (8) is connected to a fixing block (6) through a connecting block (7), and the fixing block (6) is on the top of the controller housing (2). A fixing component is provided on the side of the controller housing (2), the fixing component includes a stop (3) and a connecting structure, the stop (3) being provided on the side of the connecting structure; A support assembly is provided on the top of the sliding rod fixing seat (8). The top of the sliding rod fixing seat (8) is provided with an installation groove. The support assembly is provided in the installation groove on the top of the sliding rod fixing seat (8). A support rod (11) is provided on the top of the support assembly. A push assembly is provided on the top of the support rod (11). The push assembly includes a push block (12) and a light structure. The top of the push block (12) is provided with a light structure. The connection structure is located at the bottom of the controller housing (2).

2. The high-performance silicone button structure for automobiles according to claim 1, characterized in that: A fixing block (6) is fixedly installed at the top center of the controller housing (2), and a connecting block (7) is fixedly installed at the top center of the fixing block (6). The top of the connecting block (7) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the sliding rod fixing seat (8).

3. The high-performance silicone button structure for automobiles according to claim 1, characterized in that: The stop block (3) is fixedly installed on the side of the controller housing (2), and the stop block (3) is axially symmetrically distributed on the side of the controller housing (2).

4. The high-performance silicone button structure for automobiles according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connection structure includes a connecting plate (4) and a locking block (5). The connecting plate (4) is U-shaped. The top side of the U-shape of the connecting plate (4) is fixedly connected to the side of the fixing block (6). The bottom of the connecting plate (4) is connected to the top of the support plate (1). The lower surface of the side of the top end of the U-shape of the connecting plate (4) is connected to the top of the stop block (3). The locking block (5) is rotatably installed in the U-shape recess of the connecting plate (4). The other end of the locking block (5) is engaged with the bottom side of the fixing block (6).

5. The high-performance silicone button structure for automobiles according to claim 1, characterized in that: The support assembly includes a sliding rod (9) and a slider (10). The sliding rod (9) is fixedly installed in the mounting groove opened on the top of the sliding rod fixing seat (8). The sliding rod (9) is convex in shape. The slider (10) is slidably installed on the top of the sliding rod (9). A support rod (11) is fixedly installed at the center of the top of the slider (10).

6. The high-performance silicone button structure for automobiles according to claim 5, characterized in that: The lighting structure includes an indicator light mounting slot (13) and an indicator light (14). A push block (12) is fixedly installed on the top of the support rod (11). An indicator light mounting slot (13) is opened on the top of the push block (12). Multiple sets of linearly distributed indicator lights (14) are fixedly installed inside the bottom of the indicator light mounting slot (13).

7. The high-performance silicone button structure for automobiles according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connection structure includes a connector mounting slot (15) and a connector (16). The bottom of the controller housing (2) is provided with a set of connector mounting slots (15) that are symmetrically distributed. A set of parallel connectors (16) are fixedly installed in the connector mounting slots (15).