Multi-directional detection device

Abstract

Provided is a multidirectional detection device having a housing, a switch assembly, a rocker that is operated in a plurality of operation directions, and a driving body that makes the switch assembly on / off under the action of the rocker, and the operation direction of the rocker is detected by the on / off of the switch assembly, wherein the rocker has an operation end and a support end that is opposite to the inner surface of the bottom of the housing, a guide recess is recessed formed on one of the inner surface of the bottom and the support end, the guide recess includes a center portion and a plurality of guide grooves that respectively extend from the center portion to the plurality of operation directions, a guide protrusion that cooperates with the guide recess is formed on the other of the inner surface of the bottom and the support end, in the case where the rocker is not subjected to external force, the rocker is in a neutral position where the guide protrusion is opposite to the center portion of the guide recess, in the case where the rocker is operated in a certain one of the plurality of operation directions by external force, the guide protrusion enters a guide groove corresponding to the certain one of the operation directions, and the rocker is guided to swing relative to the housing in the certain one of the operation directions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a multi-directional detection device for detecting operations in multiple directions. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, almost all car seat adjustments are made electrically. That is, the car user operates a button or switch in the desired direction, which drives the electric motor in that direction, thus adjusting the car seat position accordingly. To detect the direction of the user's button or switch operation, a multi-directional detection device can be used.

[0003] Figure 17 An existing structure of a multi-directional detection device is shown. For example... Figure 17 As shown, this existing multi-directional detection device has a housing 1', a switch assembly 3' housed within the housing 1', and a joystick 2' for operation in multiple operating directions. When the joystick 2' is operated in a certain operating direction by an external force, the corresponding switch assembly 3' is turned on. By detecting the turned-on switch assembly 3', the user's operating direction on the joystick 2' is detected.

[0004] However, in the aforementioned existing multi-directional detection devices, the joystick may swing in a tilt direction that deviates from the user's desired operating direction when it is operated, causing the switch assembly in that tilt direction to also conduct, resulting in the car seat moving in a direction that the user does not want. Utility Model Content

[0005] This utility model is proposed in view of the above-mentioned technical problems, and its purpose is to provide a multi-directional detection device that can accurately detect the user's operating direction.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, one technical solution of this utility model provides a multi-directional detection device. This device includes a housing, a switch assembly housed within the housing, a rocker arm for operation in multiple operating directions, and a drive unit that switches the switch assembly on and off under the action of the rocker arm. The operating direction of the rocker arm is detected by switching the switch assembly on and off. The rocker arm has an operating end protruding from the housing for applying external force and a support end inside the housing opposite to the bottom inner surface of the housing. A guide recess is recessed into one of the bottom inner surface of the housing and the support end of the rocker arm. The component includes a central portion and a plurality of guide grooves extending from the central portion in the plurality of operating directions. A guide protrusion is formed on the other side of the bottom inner surface of the housing and the support end of the rocker arm, which mates with the guide recess. When the rocker arm is not subjected to external force, the rocker arm is in a neutral position opposite to the central portion of the guide protrusion and the guide recess. When the rocker arm is operated by external force in one of the plurality of operating directions, the guide protrusion enters the guide groove corresponding to the one operating direction, thereby guiding the rocker arm to swing relative to the housing in the one operating direction.

[0007] According to this technical solution, the guide groove of the guide protrusion and guide recess between the housing and the joystick can reliably guide the joystick to swing in the user's desired operating direction, preventing the joystick from swinging in an inclined direction that deviates from the user's desired operating direction. Therefore, the switching assembly in the inclined direction can be prevented from conducting, and the user's operating direction can be accurately detected.

[0008] In one technical solution, preferably, the guide recess is formed on the bottom inner surface of the housing, and the guide protrusion is formed on the support end of the rocker arm.

[0009] According to this technical solution, by forming a guide recess on the housing, compared with forming a guide recess on the rocker, the size of the area where the guide recess is formed can be ensured without making the overall multi-directional detection device larger, thereby ensuring that the rocker has a sufficient operable angle.

[0010] In one technical solution, preferably, the guide protrusion includes a central post and a plurality of guide blocks protruding from the cylindrical surface of the central post in the plurality of operating directions. The protrusion height of each of the plurality of guide blocks from the central post gradually decreases as it approaches the front end of the guide protrusion. When the rocker arm is operated by an external force in a certain operating direction, the guide block corresponding to the certain operating direction enters the guide groove corresponding to the certain operating direction, thereby guiding the rocker arm to swing relative to the housing in the certain operating direction.

[0011] According to this technical solution, reliable guidance of the joystick can be achieved.

[0012] Alternatively, the guide protrusion may be formed as a cone or spherical shape that tapers towards the front end. When the rocker arm is operated by an external force in a certain operating direction, the cone or spherical surface of the guide protrusion enters the guide groove corresponding to that operating direction, thereby guiding the rocker arm to swing relative to the housing in that operating direction.

[0013] This technical solution also enables reliable guidance of the joystick.

[0014] In one technical solution, preferably, the front end portion of the guide protrusion has a gradually decreasing cross-sectional area in the direction toward the guide recess.

[0015] According to this technical solution, it is possible to ensure that the joystick swings smoothly relative to the housing.

[0016] In one technical solution, preferably, in any cross-section parallel to the bottom inner surface, the cross-sectional shape of the front end portion of the guide protrusion is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the guide recess, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the front end portion is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the guide recess.

[0017] According to this technical solution, the guide protrusion can be prevented from getting stuck in the guide recess, thereby ensuring smooth operation of the joystick in the operating direction and smooth reset to the neutral position.

[0018] In one technical solution, preferably, the rocker arm has an operating end side portion, a support end side portion assembled to the operating end side portion in a manner that allows it to extend and retract relative to the operating end side portion along the central axis of the rocker arm, and a force-applying member that applies force to the support end side portion in a direction that extends relative to the operating end side portion, the operating end being formed in the operating end side portion, and the support end being formed in the support end side portion.

[0019] According to this technical solution, by using a force-applying component to press the support end of the joystick towards the bottom inner surface of the housing, the guide protrusion and guide recess can be brought into close contact, achieving reliable guidance of the joystick. On the other hand, the reaction force generated by the force-applying component on the operating end of the joystick during operation provides a distinct tactile feedback during joystick operation.

[0020] In one technical solution, preferably, corresponding to the plurality of operating directions, the switch assembly has a plurality of fixed terminals disposed in the housing and a plurality of metal springs disposed opposite to each set of fixed terminals. The rocker arm has a pressure plate protruding from the rod body between the operating end and the support end. The driving body is sandwiched between the pressure plate and the metal springs. When the rocker arm is operated in a certain operating direction and the driving body is pressed, the metal spring corresponding to that operating direction undergoes elastic deformation under the pressure of the driving body, contacts the fixed terminals of the corresponding set, and connects the fixed terminals of the corresponding set.

[0021] According to this technical solution, by using a metal spring in the switch assembly, the elasticity of the metal spring can be used to ensure that the joystick operation has a distinct tactile feedback.

[0022] In one technical solution, preferably, the driving body has: a main body; a plurality of cantilevered portions extending from the main body; and a plurality of pressing portions formed at the free ends of the plurality of cantilevered portions and corresponding to the plurality of metal springs; when the rocker arm is operated in the certain operating direction and the pressing portion is pressed, the pressing portion presses the corresponding metal spring and causes the metal spring to undergo the elastic deformation.

[0023] According to this technical solution, the operating force required to operate the joystick can be reduced by using the cantilever.

[0024] In one technical solution, preferably, the main body is formed in a ring shape, the support end of the rocker arm passes through the drive body, and the plurality of cantilever sections extend circumferentially along the main body.

[0025] According to this technical solution, since the cantilever extends circumferentially along the annular main body, it ensures that the cantilever has sufficient length, making it easy for the cantilever to undergo elastic deformation. This further reduces the operating force required to operate the joystick.

[0026] In one technical solution, preferably, the pressing part is provided protruding relative to the cantilever part on the side facing the pressure plate, and / or, the pressing part is provided protruding relative to the cantilever part on the side facing the metal spring.

[0027] According to this technical solution, by utilizing the protruding structure of the pressing part relative to the cantilever part toward the pressure plate side / metal spring side, it is easier to transmit the pressing of the rocker arm to the metal spring.

[0028] In one technical solution, preferably, an elastic component is provided between the rocker arm and the housing to provide a restoring force that returns the rocker arm from one of the operating directions to the neutral position.

[0029] According to this technical solution, when the operation is canceled, the joystick automatically returns to the neutral position under the restoring force of the elastic component, and can automatically enter the preparation state for the next test.

[0030] In one technical solution, preferably, the elastic component is a compression spring sleeved on the outside of the support end.

[0031] According to this technical solution, by using a compression spring as an elastic component to provide the restoring force, the overall assembly of the device can be made easy, and the reliability and durability of the device can be ensured.

[0032] In one technical solution, preferably, the housing has a bottom shell, an upper cover covering the bottom shell, and a cover fastened to the outside of the bottom shell and the upper cover. The bottom shell and the upper cover constitute the internal space of the housing, and the bottom inner surface is the inner surface of the bottom of the bottom shell.

[0033] According to this technical solution, the bottom shell and the top cover can be fixed together to form a shell by using a cover attached to the outside of the bottom shell and the top cover. Compared with using bolts or other connecting parts to fix the bottom shell and the top cover, this simplifies the overall structure of the device and the assembly process.

[0034] In one technical solution, preferably, a protective cap is provided at the position where the rocker arm extends from the housing to prevent dust and / or water from entering the housing.

[0035] This technical solution ensures stable operation of the device.

[0036] In one technical solution, the rocker arm can be rotated relative to the housing about its central axis, and a Hall element for detecting the rotation angle of the rocker arm is provided inside the housing.

[0037] This technical solution can expand the application scenarios of the device.

[0038] In one technical solution, a limiting groove can be formed on one of the rocker arm and the housing, and a limiting block can be formed on the other of the rocker arm and the housing. The rocker arm cannot rotate relative to the housing because it is locked between the limiting block and the limiting groove.

[0039] According to this technical solution, when it is necessary to limit the rotation of the joystick in the product being applied, the rotation of the joystick can be limited by locking the limit block and the limit groove. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the multi-directional detection device in the implementation method.

[0041] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment.

[0042] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing the overall structure of the multi-directional detection device in the implementation method.

[0043] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment.

[0044] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the housing of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment. Figure A shows the assembled state, and Figure B shows the disassembled state.

[0045] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the bottom shell included in the housing of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment.

[0046] Figure 7 This is a top view showing the structure of the bottom shell included in the housing of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment.

[0047] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the rocker arm of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment.

[0048] Figure 9 This is a side view showing the structure of the rocker arm of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment. However, to show the structure of the support end, part of the pressure plate has been omitted.

[0049] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the cross-section of the front end portion of the guide protrusion and the cross-section of the guide recess in the embodiment. Figure 4 Section II.

[0050] Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the switching assembly of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment. Figure A shows the assembled state, and Figure B shows the disassembled state.

[0051] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the drive body of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment.

[0052] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the support end of the rocker arm of the multi-directional detection device in deformation mode 1.

[0053] Figure 14 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the rocker arm of the multi-directional detection device in deformation mode 3.

[0054] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the rocker arm of the multi-directional detection device in deformation mode 3.

[0055] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall structure of the multi-directional detection device in deformation mode 5.

[0056] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a multi-directional detection device in the prior art.

[0057] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 1. Shell 11 Bottom Shell 111 Shell bottom plate 1110 Central boss 1111 Guide recess 1111c Central Section 1111g guide groove 1112 Switch assembly receiving slot 1113 Peripheral convexity 1114 Gap 112 Outer wall 1121 Positioning Tongue Piece 1122 Limiting groove 1123 Card Slot 12 Top Cover 121. Center through hole in the top cover 122 Card Slot 123 Positioning Groove 124 positioning posts 13. Cover 130 cover plate 131 Cover plate center through hole 132 Elastic Legs 133 Foot jamming 134 positioning holes 2 Joystick 21. Operating Terminal 22 Support end 221 Central Column 222 Bootstrap Block 23 rods 24 pressure plate 25 limit blocks 2-1 Operating end side section 2-2 Support end side portion 2-3 Force-applying components 230 center mounting hole 3 Switching components 31 Fixed Terminal 32 metal shrapnel 4. Driving unit 41 Main body 42. Cantilever section 43 Pressing part 5. Elastic components 6. Protective helmet 1' Shell 2' joystick 3' Switch assembly Detailed Implementation

[0058] The following describes the methods for implementing this utility model. It should be noted that the following methods are listed for ease of understanding of this utility model and are not intended to limit this utility model.

[0059] In addition, in the following description, the same reference numerals will be used for the same constituent elements, and the description of the constituent elements will be simplified or omitted as appropriate.

[0060] Furthermore, regarding the reference numerals used in the accompanying drawings, in order to indicate the attribution of the constituent element referred to by the reference numeral, sometimes the reference numeral of the constituent element to which the constituent element belongs is appended in parentheses after the reference numeral. For example, the reference numeral "11 (1)" in the accompanying drawings indicates that the constituent element referred to by reference numeral "11" belongs to the constituent element referred to by reference numeral "1". Other reference numerals of the same format have the same meaning.

[0061] <1> Implementation [1-1] Overall Structure First, the overall structure of the multi-directional detection device in the implementation method will be explained.

[0062] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the multi-directional detection device in the implementation method. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment, with part of the housing omitted. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing the overall structure of the multi-directional detection device in the implementation method. Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment.

[0063] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment has a housing 1, a rocker arm 2, a switch assembly 3, a drive body 4, and an elastic component 5.

[0064] The shell 1 has a containment space (i.e., internal space) inside.

[0065] The joystick 2 can be operated in multiple directions. One end of the joystick 2 extends from the housing 1 and forms an operating end 21 for applying external force. The other end of the joystick 2 is housed in the housing space of the housing 1 and faces the bottom inner surface of the housing 1, forming a support end 22 supported on the housing 1.

[0066] The switch assembly 3 is housed in the housing space of the housing 1 and can switch between on and off states.

[0067] The drive unit 4 is housed in the housing space of the housing 1, and the switch assembly 3 is switched between on and off by the action of the rocker arm 2.

[0068] The elastic component 5 provides a restoring force for resetting the rocker arm 2.

[0069] When the operating end 21 of the joystick 2 is not subjected to external force, the joystick 2 is in a neutral position.

[0070] When the operating end 21 of the joystick 2 is operated by an external force in one of multiple operating directions, the joystick 2 swings in that operating direction, driving the corresponding switch assembly 3 via the drive body 4, thus turning on the switch assembly 3. By detecting the turning on of the switch assembly 3, it is determined that the operating direction of the joystick 2 is that specific operating direction.

[0071] When the external force applied to the operating end 21 of the joystick 2 is removed, the joystick 2 returns to the neutral position from a certain operating direction under the action of the restoring force of the elastic member 5.

[0072] The following is a detailed explanation of the components of the multi-directional detection device.

[0073] [1-2] Shell 1 Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the housing 1 of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment, where Figure A is the assembled state and Figure B is the disassembled state.

[0074] like Figure 5 As shown, the housing 1 has a bottom shell 11, a top cover 12, and a cover 13.

[0075] Figure 6 and Figure 7 A more detailed structure of the bottom shell 11 is shown.

[0076] Refer to together Figure 6 and Figure 7 The bottom shell 11 has a bottom plate 111 and an outer peripheral wall 112. The outer peripheral wall 112 extends from the outer periphery of the bottom plate 111 in a direction that intersects with the plate surface of the bottom plate 111, so that the bottom shell 11 is formed as a bottomed cylindrical shape with an opening on one side.

[0077] On the inner surface of the bottom of the shell base plate 111, a central boss 1110 extending toward the opening side of the bottom shell 11 is formed. On the central boss 1110, a guide recess 1111 is formed, which is recessed toward the side opposite to the opening side of the bottom shell 11, for guiding the swing of the rocker arm 2.

[0078] The guide recess 1111 includes a central portion 1111c and a plurality of guide grooves 1111g.

[0079] The central part 1111c is located at the center of the guide recess 1111.

[0080] Multiple guide slots 1111g extend from the central portion 1111c in multiple operating directions.

[0081] The number of guide slots 1111g is set according to the number of operating directions of the joystick 2. For example, in this embodiment, the joystick 2 has four operating directions, so four guide slots 1111g are set accordingly. Alternatively, the joystick 2 may have two, three, or more operating directions, in which case the number of guide slots 1111g can be set to two, three, or more.

[0082] Furthermore, the extension direction of the guide groove 1111g is set according to the operating direction of the joystick 2.

[0083] The guide recess 1111 is formed such that the cross-sectional area gradually decreases from the opening side of the guide recess 1111 toward the bottom side of the guide recess 1111.

[0084] On the inner surface of the bottom of the shell base plate 111, on the outer periphery of the central boss 1110, a switch assembly receiving groove 1112 is formed that is recessed to the side opposite to the opening side of the bottom shell 11.

[0085] On the inner surface of the bottom of the shell base plate 111, a plurality of peripheral bosses 1113 extending toward the opening side of the bottom shell 11 are formed on the outer periphery of the central boss 1110. Each peripheral boss 1113 is separated from the central boss 1110 by a gap 1114 in the plate direction of the shell base plate 111.

[0086] On the end wall of the outer peripheral wall 112 of the bottom shell 11, on the opening side, a positioning tongue 1121 is formed to position the top cover 12. Multiple positioning tongues 1121 are provided, and the multiple positioning tongues 1121 are spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral wall 112.

[0087] A limiting groove 1122 is recessed on the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall 112 of the bottom shell 11. Multiple limiting grooves 1122 are provided, spaced apart circumferentially on the outer peripheral wall 112. Furthermore, at least a portion of the multiple limiting grooves 1122 are positioned circumferentially on the outer peripheral wall 112 at the same location as the positioning tongue 1121.

[0088] A recessed groove 1123 is formed on the outer surface of the outer peripheral wall 112 of the bottom shell 11. Multiple grooves 1123 are provided, spaced apart circumferentially on the outer peripheral wall 112. Furthermore, the multiple grooves 1123 are positioned circumferentially on the outer peripheral wall 112 at the same locations as the multiple limiting grooves 1122. At least a portion of the multiple grooves 1123 are positioned circumferentially on the outer peripheral wall 112 at the same locations as the positioning tongue 1121.

[0089] like Figure 5 As shown, a central through hole 121 for the rocker arm 2 to pass through is formed in the center of the upper cover 12. A recessed slot 122 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the upper cover 12. Multiple slots 122 are spaced apart circumferentially on the upper cover 12. Positioning grooves 123 are further recessed at the bottom of some slots 122. Multiple positioning posts 124 are protruding on the end face of the upper cover 12 on the side opposite to the bottom shell 11. The multiple positioning posts 124 have different shapes.

[0090] like Figure 5 As shown, the cover 13 includes a cover plate 130 with a central through hole 131 through which the rocker arm 2 passes, a plurality of elastic legs 132 extending from the cover plate 130 in a direction intersecting the surface direction of the cover plate 130, and a plurality of retaining feet 133 extending from the ends of the plurality of elastic legs 132 on the side opposite to the cover plate 130, the retaining feet 133 being opposite to the cover plate 130. Corresponding to the plurality of positioning posts 124, a plurality of positioning holes 134 are formed on the cover plate 130, the plurality of positioning holes 134 having different shapes.

[0091] In the assembled state of the housing 1, the upper cover 12 is fitted onto the open end of the bottom shell 11 by engaging the positioning grooves 123 with the corresponding positioning tongues 1121. The cover 13 is fastened to the upper cover 12 and the bottom shell 11 by engaging the positioning holes 134 with the corresponding positioning pins 124. The elastic legs 132 of the upper cover 12 are engaged in the slots 122 on the upper cover 12 and the slots 1123 on the bottom shell 11. The locking feet 133 of the upper cover 12 are hooked onto the bottom outer surface of the bottom plate 111 of the bottom shell 11. Thus, the cover 13 fixes the upper cover 12 and the bottom shell 11 together to form an integral housing 1, and an internal space, i.e., a receiving space, is formed between the upper cover 12 and the bottom shell 11.

[0092] [1-3] Joystick 2 Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the rocker arm 2 of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment. Figure 9 This is a side view showing the structure of the joystick 2. Figure 9 In order to show the structure of the support end 22 of the rocker arm 2, part of the pressure plate 23 of the rocker arm 2 is omitted.

[0093] like Figure 4 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the rocker arm 2 has an operating end 21 for external force operation, a support end 22 supported on the bottom inner surface of the housing 1, a rod 23 between the operating end 21 and the support end 22, and a pressure plate 24 that protrudes radially outward from the rod 23 in a disc shape.

[0094] A guide protrusion is formed at the support end 22 to mate with the guide recess 1111 on the housing 1 (see...). Figure 8 and Figure 9 (Figure reference numerals 221, 222).

[0095] In any cross-section parallel to the bottom inner surface of the housing 1, the cross-sectional shape of the front end portion of the guide protrusion of the support end 22 of the rocker arm 2 is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the guide recess 1111 of the housing 1, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the front end portion of the guide protrusion is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the guide recess 1111. Here, "same cross-sectional shape" means that the overall shape of the cross-section is the same.

[0096] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the cross-section of the front end of the guide protrusion and the cross-section of the guide recess 1111. Figure 4 The figure shows a cross-sectional view (II). As shown, the cross-sectional shape of the front end of the guide protrusion of the support end 22 of the rocker arm 2 is approximately cross-shaped, and the cross-sectional shape of the guide recess 1111 of the housing 1 is also approximately cross-shaped; that is, the cross-sectional shape of the front end of the guide protrusion is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the guide recess 1111. Furthermore, the outline of the front end of the guide protrusion is generally located inside the outline of the guide recess 1111, meaning that the cross-sectional area of ​​the front end of the guide protrusion is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the guide recess 1111. This relationship in cross-sectional shape and cross-sectional area is also the same in other cross-sections.

[0097] In the direction from the operating end 21 toward the support end 22, the cross-sectional area of ​​the front end portion of the guide protrusion of the support end 22 gradually decreases. In other words, the cross-sectional area of ​​the front end portion of the guide protrusion of the support end 22 gradually decreases in the direction toward the guide recess 1111 of the housing 1.

[0098] In this embodiment, a more specific structure of the guide protrusion of the support end 22 is as follows: Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, it includes a central pillar 221 and multiple guide blocks 222.

[0099] The central column 221 extends integrally from the rod 23 along the axis of the rocker arm 2.

[0100] Multiple guide blocks 222 protrude from the cylindrical surface (outer peripheral surface) of the central post 221 in multiple operating directions of the rocker arm 2. In addition, the protrusion height of each of the multiple guide blocks 222 from the central post 221 gradually decreases as it moves from the operating end 21 side toward the support end 22 side.

[0101] When the rocker arm 2 is in a neutral position without being subjected to external force, the guide protrusion of the support end 22 is opposite to the center portion 1111c of the guide recess 1111 of the housing 1.

[0102] When the rocker arm 2 is operated by an external force in one of the multiple operating directions, the guide protrusion of the support end 22 enters the guide groove 1111g of the guide recess 1111 corresponding to the certain operating direction. More specifically, the guide block 222 of the guide protrusion corresponding to the certain operating direction enters the guide groove 1111g of the guide recess 1111 corresponding to the certain operating direction, thereby guiding the rocker arm 2 to swing relative to the housing 1 in that certain operating direction.

[0103] In addition, the length of the rod 23 can be set as needed.

[0104] Furthermore, the rocker arm 2 also has a limiting block 25 protruding from the outer peripheral surface of the pressure plate 24. Multiple limiting blocks 25 are provided corresponding to limiting grooves 1122 on the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall 112 of the bottom shell 1 of the housing 1. See the assembled state. Figure 2 The limiting block 25 is locked in the corresponding limiting groove 1122, so that the rocker arm 2 cannot rotate relative to the housing 1.

[0105] [1-4] Switch assembly 3 Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the switch assembly 3 of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment, where Figure A is the assembled state and Figure B is the disassembled state.

[0106] like Figure 11 As shown, the switch assembly 3 has a group of fixed terminals 31 and a metal spring 32 disposed opposite to the group of fixed terminals 31.

[0107] Multiple sets of fixed terminals 31 are provided corresponding to the multiple operating directions of the joystick 2. Specifically, as follows: Figure 11As shown in Figure B, the fixed terminal 31 is divided into a common terminal 311 and multiple unidirectional terminals 312 separate from the common terminal 311. The common terminal 311 has a main body 3110, multiple pin portions 3111 connected to the main body 3110 and extending to the outside of the housing 1, and multiple terminal portions 3112 extending from each pin portion 3111. Each unidirectional terminal 312 has a terminal portion 3120 and a pin portion 3121 connected to the terminal portion 3120 and extending to the outside of the housing 1. The terminal portions 3120 of each unidirectional terminal 312 and the corresponding terminal portions 3112 of the common terminal 311 each form a group. Furthermore, the fixed terminals 31 are provided on the bottom plate 111 of the housing 1 such that the terminal portions 3120 and 3112 are exposed in the corresponding switch assembly receiving grooves 1112 on the bottom plate 111 of the housing 1 and the pin portions 3111 and 3121 extend out of the housing 1. For example, they can be embedded in the bottom plate 111 by insert molding.

[0108] The metal spring 32 is provided with multiple corresponding operating directions of the joystick 2. Specifically, as follows: Figure 11 As shown in Figure A, the metal spring 32 is disposed in the corresponding switch assembly receiving slot 1112 on the bottom plate 111 of the bottom housing 11, such that it covers the terminal portion 3120 of the corresponding unidirectional terminal 312 and the terminal portion 3112 of the common terminal 311. Furthermore, the metal spring 32 can be used individually or multiple metal springs 32 can be overlapped together.

[0109] When the rocker arm 2 is in a neutral position without being subjected to external force, each metal spring 32 is not subjected to pressing pressure from the rocker arm 2, and does not contact the terminal portion 3120 of the corresponding group of unidirectional terminal 312 and the terminal portion 3112 of the common terminal 311, so that the terminal portions 3120 and 3112 are not connected.

[0110] When the joystick 2 is operated in one of multiple operating directions by an external force, the metal spring 32 corresponding to that operating direction undergoes elastic deformation due to the pressure from the joystick 2. This causes it to contact the terminal portion 3120 of the corresponding set of one-way terminals 312 and the terminal portion 3112 of the common terminal 311, thus making these terminals 3120 and 3112 conductive to each other. At this time, a conductive current flows through the external circuit connected to these terminals 3120 and 3112. By detecting this conductive current, the operating direction of the joystick 2 can be determined.

[0111] When the external force applied to the rocker arm 2 is removed and the rocker arm 2 returns to the neutral position, the metal spring 32 returns to its original shape because it is no longer pressed by the pressure from the rocker arm 2, and becomes a state that does not contact the terminal portion 3120 of the corresponding group of unidirectional terminal 312 and the terminal portion 3112 of the common terminal 311. These terminal portions 3120 and 3112 become non-conductive.

[0112] [1-5] Driver 4 Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the drive body 4 of the multi-directional detection device in the embodiment.

[0113] like Figure 12 As shown, the drive body 4 has a main body 41, a cantilever 42, and a pressing part 43.

[0114] The main body 41 is formed in a ring shape.

[0115] Multiple cantilever portions 42 are provided corresponding to multiple operating directions of the rocker arm 2. Each cantilever portion 42 extends from the main body portion 41. Specifically, each cantilever portion 42 extends from the inner circumferential surface of the main body portion 41. In addition, each cantilever portion 42 extends along the circumferential direction of the main body portion 41. Furthermore, each cantilever portion 42 is configured to easily deform elastically in the thickness direction of the drive body 4.

[0116] Multiple pressing portions 43 are provided corresponding to multiple operating directions of the joystick 2. Each pressing portion 43 is formed at the free end of a corresponding cantilever portion 42. Furthermore, each pressing portion 43 has a greater thickness in the thickness direction of the drive body 4 than the corresponding cantilever portion 42. Thus, on one side of the thickness direction of the drive body 4, each pressing portion 43 protrudes relative to the corresponding cantilever portion 42. On the other side of the thickness direction of the drive body 4, each pressing portion 43 protrudes relative to the corresponding cantilever portion 42.

[0117] like Figure 4 As shown, in the assembled state, the drive body 4 is sandwiched between the pressure plate 24 of the rocker arm 2 and the metal spring 32 of the switch assembly 3. One side of the pressing part 43 of the drive body 4 in the aforementioned thickness direction faces the pressure plate 24, and the other side faces the corresponding metal spring 32. Furthermore, the support end 22 of the rocker arm 2 passes through the central through hole of the drive body 4.

[0118] Thus, when the joystick 2 is operated by an external force in one of the multiple operating directions, the pressure plate 24 of the joystick 2 presses the corresponding pressing part 43 on the drive body 4, and the pressing part 43 further presses the corresponding metal spring 32 in the switch assembly 3, thereby transmitting the pressing force from the joystick 2 to the metal spring 32 via the drive body 4, causing it to undergo elastic deformation.

[0119] [1-6] Elastic component 5 As mentioned above, the elastic component 5 is a component used to reset the rocker arm 2.

[0120] See Figure 4 The elastic component 5 is disposed between the housing 1 and the rocker arm 2. It does not apply a restoring force to the rocker arm 2 when it is not operated, and applies a restoring force to the rocker arm 2 when it is swung.

[0121] In this embodiment, the elastic member 5 is a compression spring, more specifically a compression coil spring. The elastic member 5 is sleeved outside the support end 22 of the rocker arm 2, and one end of the elastic member 5 is inserted into the gap 1114 of the bottom plate 111 of the bottom shell 11 of the housing 1, while the other end abuts against the surface of the pressure plate 24 of the rocker arm 2 facing the bottom plate 111.

[0122] [1-7] Technical Effects As mentioned above, a guide recess 1111 and a guide protrusion that cooperate with each other are formed on the bottom inner surface of the housing 1 (the bottom inner surface of the bottom of the bottom shell 11) and the support end 22 of the rocker arm 2.

[0123] When the joystick 2 is operated in a certain operating direction by an external force, the guide protrusion enters the guide groove 1111g of the guide recess 1111 corresponding to the certain operating direction, thereby guiding the joystick 2 to swing relative to the housing 1 in that certain operating direction.

[0124] Therefore, the cooperation of the guide recess 1111 and the guide protrusion can prevent the joystick 2 from swinging in a tilt direction that deviates from the user's desired operating direction. In this way, the switch assembly 3 can be prevented from being turned on in this tilt direction, and the user's operating direction can be accurately detected.

[0125] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the guide protrusion includes a central post 221 and a plurality of guide blocks 222 protruding from the cylindrical surface of the central post 221 in multiple operating directions. The protrusion height of each of the guide blocks 222 from the central post 221 gradually decreases as it approaches the front end of the guide protrusion. When the rocker arm 2 is operated in a certain operating direction by an external force, the guide block 222 corresponding to that operating direction enters the guide groove 1111g of the guide recess 1111 corresponding to that operating direction, thereby guiding the rocker arm 2 to swing relative to the housing 1 in that operating direction.

[0126] This enables reliable guidance of joystick 2.

[0127] In addition, in the embodiment, the front end portion of the guide protrusion gradually decreases in cross-sectional area in the direction toward the guide recess 1111.

[0128] This ensures that the rocker arm 2 swings smoothly relative to the housing 1.

[0129] In addition, in the embodiment, in any cross section parallel to the bottom inner surface of the housing 1, the cross-sectional shape of the front end portion of the guide protrusion is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the guide recess 1111, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the front end portion is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the guide recess 1111.

[0130] This avoids the guide protrusion from getting stuck in the guide recess 1111, thus ensuring smooth operation of the joystick 2 in the operating direction and smooth reset to the neutral position.

[0131] In addition, in the embodiment, the switch assembly 3 has multiple sets of fixed terminals 31 disposed in the housing 1 and multiple metal springs 32 disposed opposite to each set of fixed terminals 31.

[0132] Therefore, by using a metal spring 32 in the switch assembly 3, the elasticity of the metal spring 32 can be utilized to ensure that the joystick operation has a distinct tactile feel. Furthermore, this tactile feel can be adjusted by replacing the metal spring or by stacking different numbers of metal springs.

[0133] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the drive body 4 has a main body 41, a plurality of cantilever portions 42 extending from the main body 41, and a plurality of pressing portions 43 formed at the free ends of the plurality of cantilever portions 42 and corresponding to the plurality of metal springs 32 of the switch assembly 3. When the joystick 2 is operated in a certain operating direction and the pressing portion 43 is pressed, the corresponding cantilever portion 42 undergoes elastic deformation, causing the pressing portion 43 to move and press the corresponding metal spring 32, causing it to undergo elastic deformation.

[0134] Therefore, the operating force required to operate the joystick 2 can be reduced by the cantilever part 42.

[0135] In addition, in the drive body 4, the cantilever portion 42 extends circumferentially along the main body portion 41.

[0136] Therefore, by extending the cantilever portion 42 circumferentially along the annular main body portion 41, it is possible to ensure that the cantilever portion 42 has sufficient length, thereby further reducing the operating force required to operate the joystick 2.

[0137] Furthermore, in the drive body 4, the pressing part 43 is provided protruding relative to the cantilever part 42 on the side facing the pressure plate 24 of the rocker arm 2. Additionally, the pressing part 43 is provided protruding relative to the cantilever part 42 on the side facing the metal spring 32 of the switch assembly 3.

[0138] Therefore, by utilizing the protruding structure of the pressing part 43 relative to the cantilever part 42 toward the pressure plate 24 side and the metal spring 32 side, it is easier to transmit the pressing of the rocker arm 2 to the metal spring 32.

[0139] In addition, in the embodiment, the housing 1 has a bottom shell 11, an upper cover 12 covering the bottom shell 11, and a cover 13 fastened to the outside of the bottom shell 11 and the upper cover 12.

[0140] Therefore, the design can be configured to use a cover 13 fastened to the outside of the bottom shell 11 and the top cover 12 to fix them together to form the shell 1. Compared with using bolts or other connecting parts to fix the bottom shell and the top cover, the overall structure of the device can be simplified, and the assembly process of the device can be simplified.

[0141] <2> Deformation method 1 Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the support end 22 of the rocker arm 2 in variation mode 1.

[0142] In the above embodiment, the guide protrusion of the support end 22 of the rocker arm 2 is composed of a central post 221 and a plurality of guide blocks 222. In this modified embodiment, the guide protrusion of the support end 22 of the rocker arm 2 is composed of a conical head, which is formed to become thinner towards the front end.

[0143] When the rocker arm 2 is operated in a certain operating direction, the conical surface of the guide protrusion of the support end 22 enters the guide groove 1111g of the guide recess 1111 corresponding to the certain operating direction, and guides the rocker arm 2 to swing relative to the housing 1 in that certain operating direction.

[0144] Otherwise, it is the same as the above-described implementation method.

[0145] <3> Deformation method 2 In the above-described modification 1, the guide protrusion of the support end 22 of the rocker arm 2 is formed into a conical shape, while in this modification, the guide protrusion is formed into a spherical shape.

[0146] When the rocker arm 2 is operated in a certain operating direction, the spherical surface of the guide protrusion of the support end 22 enters the guide groove 1111g of the guide recess 1111 corresponding to the certain operating direction, and guides the rocker arm 2 to swing relative to the housing 1 in that certain operating direction.

[0147] Otherwise, it is the same as deformation method 1.

[0148] <4> Transformation method 3 Figure 14 This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the structure of the joystick 2 in transformation mode 3. Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the rocker arm 2 in deformation mode 3.

[0149] like Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the rocker arm 2 in this modified form has an operating end side portion 2-1, a supporting end side portion 2-2, and a force-applying component 2-3.

[0150] The operating end portion 2-1 includes a rod 23, an operating end 21 located at one end along the central axis of the rod 23, and a pressure plate 24 located at the other end along the central axis of the rod 23. Multiple limiting blocks 25 are formed on the pressure plate 24. The structure and function of the operating end 21, the pressure plate 24, and the limiting blocks 25 are the same as in the embodiment described above.

[0151] Additionally, on the rod 23 of the operating end portion 2-1, a central mounting hole 230 is formed along the central axis direction of the rod 23, opening towards the other end side in the direction of the central axis.

[0152] The support end portion 2-2 forms a support end 22 for the rocker arm 2. A guide protrusion is formed on the support end 22 that mates with the guide recess 1111 on the housing 1 (see...). Figure 14 (Referring to reference numerals 221 and 222 in the accompanying drawings). The structure and function of the guide protrusion are the same as in the embodiments described above.

[0153] In addition, the support end portion 2-2 is assembled to the center mounting hole 230 of the operating end portion 2-1 in a manner that allows it to extend and retract relative to the operating end portion 2-1 along the central axis direction.

[0154] The force-applying component 2-3 is sandwiched within the center mounting hole 230 of the operating end portion 2-1, between the bottom surface of the center mounting hole 230 and the end of the support end portion 2-2, applying pressure to the support end portion 2-2 in a direction that causes it to extend out of the center mounting hole 230 of the operating end portion 2-1. Through the pressure of the force-applying component 2-3, the guide protrusion of the support end portion 2-2 protrudes to the outside and presses against the guide recess 1111 on the bottom inner surface of the housing 1.

[0155] In this variation, the force-applying components 2-3 are compression springs, more specifically helical compression springs. Of course, other forms of force-applying components can also be used.

[0156] In this modified configuration, by using the force-applying component 2-3 to press the support end portion 2-2 of the rocker arm 2 towards the bottom inner surface of the housing 1, the guide protrusion on the support end portion 2-2 can be brought into close contact with the guide recess 1111 on the housing 1, thus achieving reliable guidance of the rocker arm 2. On the other hand, the reaction force generated by the force-applying component 2-3 on the operating end portion 2-1 when the rocker arm 2 is operated can give the rocker arm operation a distinct tactile feedback.

[0157] Otherwise, it is the same as the above-described implementation method.

[0158] <5> Deformation method 4 In the above embodiment, the guide recess is formed on the bottom inner surface of the housing 1, and the guide protrusion is formed on the support end of the rocker arm 2. In this modified embodiment, the guide protrusion is formed on the bottom inner surface of the housing 1, and the guide recess is formed on the support end of the rocker arm 2.

[0159] Otherwise, it is the same as the above-described implementation method.

[0160] <6> Deformation method 5 Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall structure of the multi-directional detection device in deformation mode 5.

[0161] like Figure 17 As shown, in this modified version, a protective cap 6 is provided at the position where the rocker arm 2 extends from the housing 1 to prevent dust, water, etc. from entering the housing 1.

[0162] Otherwise, it is the same as the above-described implementation method.

[0163] <7> Deformation method 6 In the above embodiment, a limiting block for limiting the relative rotation of the rocker arm 2 with respect to the housing 1 is formed on the rocker arm 2, and a limiting groove is formed on the housing 1.

[0164] In this modified configuration, a limiting block is formed on the housing 1, and a limiting groove is formed on the rocker arm 2. Specifically, the limiting block is formed on the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall 112 of the bottom shell 11 of the housing 1, and the limiting groove is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the pressure plate 24 of the rocker arm 2.

[0165] Otherwise, it is the same as the above-described implementation method.

[0166] <8> Deformation method 7 In the above embodiment, the rocker arm 2 cannot rotate relative to the housing 1, while in this embodiment, the rocker arm 2 can rotate relative to the housing 1 about its central axis.

[0167] Furthermore, a Hall element for detecting the rotation angle of the rocker arm 2 is installed inside the housing 1. The Hall element is connected to an external circuit and outputs a detection signal.

[0168] Furthermore, an elastic component may be provided between the housing 1 and the rocker arm 2 to reset the rocker arm 2 to its initial rotational position around its central axis.

[0169] Otherwise, it is the same as the above-described implementation method.

[0170] The embodiments and main modifications of this utility model have been described above, but the scope of protection of this utility model is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art can make various modifications or arbitrary combinations without departing from the technical concept of this utility model. This utility model covers various modifications and combinations within the scope of the above-described embodiments, modifications, and technical concept.

[0171] Although this utility model is proposed with the background of detecting the adjustment direction of car seats, its application scenarios are not limited to detecting the adjustment direction of car seats.

Claims

1. A multi-directional detection device comprising a housing, a switch assembly housed within the housing, a rocker arm for operation in multiple operating directions, and a drive unit for switching the switch assembly on and off under the action of the rocker arm, wherein the operating direction of the rocker arm is detected by switching the switch assembly on and off, characterized in that, The rocker arm has an operating end protruding from the housing for applying external force and a support end inside the housing opposite the bottom inner surface of the housing. A guide recess is recessed on one of the bottom inner surface of the housing and the support end of the rocker arm. The guide recess includes a central portion and a plurality of guide grooves extending from the central portion in the plurality of operating directions. On the other side of the bottom inner surface of the housing and the support end of the rocker arm, a guide protrusion is formed to mate with the guide recess. When the rocker arm is not subjected to external force, it is in a neutral position opposite to the center portion of the guide protrusion and the guide recess. When the joystick is operated by an external force in one of the plurality of operating directions, the guide protrusion enters the guide groove corresponding to the operating direction, thereby guiding the joystick to swing relative to the housing in the operating direction.

2. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide recess is formed on the bottom inner surface of the housing. The guide protrusion is formed at the support end of the rocker arm.

3. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide protrusion includes a central post and a plurality of guide blocks protruding from the cylindrical surface of the central post in the plurality of operating directions, wherein the protrusion height of each of the plurality of guide blocks from the central post gradually decreases as it approaches the front end of the guide protrusion. When the joystick is operated by an external force in a certain operating direction, the guide block corresponding to the certain operating direction enters the guide groove corresponding to the certain operating direction, thereby guiding the joystick to swing relative to the housing in the certain operating direction.

4. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide protrusion is formed into a conical or spherical shape that tapers towards the front end. When the rocker arm is operated by an external force in a certain operating direction, the conical or spherical surface of the guide protrusion enters the guide groove corresponding to the certain operating direction, thereby guiding the rocker arm to swing relative to the housing in the certain operating direction.

5. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The front end portion of the guide protrusion gradually decreases in cross-sectional area in the direction toward the guide recess.

6. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 5, characterized in that, In any cross-section parallel to the bottom inner surface, the cross-sectional shape of the front end portion of the guide protrusion is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the guide recess, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the front end portion is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the guide recess.

7. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rocker arm has an operating end portion, a support end portion assembled to the operating end portion in a manner that allows it to extend and retract relative to the operating end portion along the central axis of the rocker arm, and a force-applying member that applies force to the support end portion in a direction extending relative to the operating end portion. The operating end is formed on the operating end side portion. The support end is formed on the support end side portion.

8. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Corresponding to the plurality of operating directions, the switch assembly has multiple sets of fixed terminals disposed on the housing and multiple metal springs disposed opposite to each set of fixed terminals. The rocker arm has a pressure plate protruding from a rod body between the operating end and the supporting end. The drive unit is sandwiched between the pressure plate and the metal spring. When the joystick is operated in a certain operating direction and the driving body is pressed, the metal spring corresponding to that operating direction undergoes elastic deformation under the pressure of the driving body, and contacts the fixed terminal of the corresponding group, thereby connecting the fixed terminal of the corresponding group.

9. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The driving body has: Main body; Multiple cantilever sections extend from the main body; as well as Multiple pressing parts are respectively formed at the free ends of the multiple cantilever parts and correspond to the multiple metal springs; When the joystick is operated in the one operation direction and the pressing part is pressed, the pressing part presses the corresponding metal spring and causes the metal spring to undergo elastic deformation.

10. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The main body is formed in a ring shape. The support end of the rocker arm passes through the drive body. The plurality of cantilever sections extend circumferentially along the main body.

11. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The pressing part is provided protruding relative to the cantilever part on the side facing the pressure plate, and / or the pressing part is provided protruding relative to the cantilever part on the side facing the metal spring.

12. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, An elastic component is provided between the rocker arm and the housing to provide a restoring force that returns the rocker arm from one of the operating directions to the neutral position.

13. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The elastic component is a compression spring sleeved on the outside of the support end.

14. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing has a bottom shell, a top cover covering the bottom shell, and a cover fastened to the outside of the bottom shell and the top cover. The bottom shell and the top cover constitute the internal space of the housing. The bottom inner surface is the inner surface of the bottom of the bottom shell.

15. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A protective cap is provided at the position where the rocker arm extends from the housing to prevent dust and / or water from entering the housing.

16. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rocker arm is rotatable relative to the housing about its central axis. A Hall element for detecting the rotation angle of the rocker arm is provided inside the housing.

17. The multi-directional detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A limiting groove is formed on one of the rocker arm and the housing. A limiting block is formed on the other side of the rocker arm and the housing. The rocker arm cannot rotate relative to the housing because it is locked between the limiting block and the limiting groove.

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