Switch assembly and intelligent control apparatus

By designing a button assembly with a magnetic structure and a first magnetic sensitive device that responds to changes in the magnetic field, combined with the design of the sealed cavity, the problem of poor waterproof and oil-proof performance of existing switch assembly in the kitchen environment is solved, and better sealing effect and equipment reliability are achieved.

WO2025055484A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-03-20SHENZHEN ZOLON TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/CN2024/102670
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-09-12
Filing Date
2024-06-28
Publication Date
2025-03-20

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing switch components have poor waterproof and oil-proof performance in kitchen environments, resulting in equipment failure easily.

Method used

A switch assembly including a mount, a key assembly and a first magnetically sensitive device is designed. The key assembly has a magnetic structure, which is capable of moving relative to the mount, and the first magnetic sensitive device generates an electrical signal in response to the movement of the magnetic structure, and is independently accommodated in the closed cavity.

Benefits of technology

Through the combination of magnetic structure and magnetic sensitive devices, the good sealing effect of the switch assembly is achieved, preventing external water vapor and oil stains from damaging the internal components, enhancing the waterproof and oil stains resistance, and is suitable for harsh kitchen environments.

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Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of switch control apparatuses, and provides a switch assembly and an intelligent control apparatus. The switch assembly comprises a mounting base, a key assembly, and first magnetic sensitive devices; a closed cavity is formed in the mounting base; the key assembly is mounted on the mounting base, the key assembly comprises first magnetic structures having magnetism, and the first magnetic structures can move relative to the mounting base; the first magnetic sensitive devices generate an electrical signal in response to movement of the first magnetic structures, and the first magnetic sensitive devices are mounted in the sealed cavity. The intelligent control apparatus comprises the switch assembly. The present application aims to solve the technical problem in the prior art of poor water resistance and oil stain resistance of switch assemblies.
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Description

Switch components and intelligent control equipment

[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the China Patent Office on September 12, 2023, with application number 202311177847.2 and application name “Switch assembly and intelligent control device”, all contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The present application belongs to the technical field of switch control equipment, and in particular relates to a switch assembly and an intelligent control device. Background Art

[0003] PB20 is a keyboard for kitchen use. A keyboard is an input device, also known as a switch component. It is generally used in conjunction with kitchen displays in restaurants to facilitate quick operations by chefs.

[0004] The kitchen environment is harsh, with heavy oil pollution and high air humidity, which have a great impact on the function of the equipment. Therefore, when using switch components in the kitchen, special consideration needs to be given to the waterproof and oil-proof issues of the switch components.

[0005] In the related art, the switch components used in the kitchen mostly adopt traditional wave switches, and water vapor and oil can easily enter the electronic devices or control systems directly through the buttons, causing equipment failure.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this application is to provide a switch assembly and an intelligent control device, aiming to solve the technical problem of poor waterproof and oil-proof performance of switch assemblies in the prior art.

[0008] The first object of the present application is to provide a switch assembly, comprising:

[0009] A mounting seat is formed with a closed cavity;

[0010] a button assembly mounted on the mounting base, the button assembly comprising a first magnetic structure having magnetism, the first magnetic structure being capable of moving relative to the mounting base; and

[0011] The first magnetic sensitive device generates an electrical signal in response to the movement of the first magnetic structure, and the first magnetic sensitive device is installed in the sealed cavity.

[0012] In one embodiment, there are multiple first magnetic sensitive devices; the key assembly includes multiple first magnetic structures, the first magnetic structures are configured in a one-to-one correspondence with the first magnetic sensitive devices, and the first magnetic structures can move in a direction toward or away from the corresponding first magnetic sensitive devices.

[0013] In one embodiment, the key assembly includes multiple key axis structures, each of the key axis structures includes an axis body assembly and the first magnetic structure, the key axis structures are configured in a one-to-one correspondence with the first magnetic sensitive device, the first magnetic structure is slidably connected to the corresponding axis body assembly, and the axis body assembly is installed on the mounting seat.

[0014] In one embodiment, the switch assembly further includes a knob assembly and a second magnetic sensitive device, the knob assembly includes a second magnetic structure having magnetism, the knob assembly is rotatably connected to the mounting base; the second magnetic sensitive device generates an electrical signal in response to the rotation of the knob assembly; the second magnetic sensitive device is installed in the enclosed cavity.

[0015] In one embodiment, the mounting base includes a fixing frame and a support frame connected to the fixing frame, the fixing frame is provided with an installation space, and the button assembly is movably installed in the installation space; the enclosed cavity is formed in the support frame.

[0016] In one embodiment, the support frame includes a shell and a cover body, the shell is provided with a receiving groove, the first magnetic sensitive device is installed in the receiving groove, the cover body is detachably connected to the notch of the receiving groove, and the shell and the cover body are connected to jointly enclose the closed cavity.

[0017] In one embodiment, the support frame further includes a sealing member connected between the receiving groove notch of the shell and the cover body.

[0018] In one embodiment, the first magnetic sensitive device includes a Hall sensor, a TMR sensor, an AMR sensor or a GMR sensor.

[0019] In one embodiment, the second magnetic sensitive device includes a Hall angle sensor, a TMR angle sensor, an AMR angle sensor, or a GMR angle sensor.

[0020] In one embodiment, the switch assembly further includes a control board, and the first magnetic sensitive device is electrically connected to the control board; the control board is installed in the sealed cavity.

[0021] In one embodiment, the switch assembly further includes a power supply structure electrically connected to the control board.

[0022] A second object of the present application is to provide an intelligent control device comprising a switch assembly as described in any one of the above items.

[0023] The switch assembly and intelligent control device of the present application have the following advantages over the prior art: compared with the prior art, in the switch assembly and intelligent control device, by matching and combining a key assembly including a first magnetic structure having magnetism with a first magnetic sensitive device, the key assembly can generate a magnetic field, so that the first magnetic sensitive device can respond to the magnetic field changes caused by the movement of the magnetic structure to generate an electrical signal, so that the key assembly can generate an electrical signal in response to the movement of the first magnetic structure when the key assembly is not in direct contact with the first magnetic sensitive device, or when the key assembly is separated from the first magnetic sensitive device in a different space. Therefore, in the switch assembly, the first magnetic sensitive device can be independently accommodated in a sealed cavity, and the sealed cavity is better isolated from the external space, so that the sealing effect of the switch assembly is better, and the first magnetic sensitive device is not easily damaged by external moisture and oil. After the waterproof and oil-proof capabilities of the switch assembly are enhanced, it can be better used in kitchen environments with harsh external environments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments of the present application or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative work.

[0025] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of the external structure of a switch assembly provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0026] FIG2 is a schematic structural diagram of the assembly of the mounting base and the cover body in FIG1 ;

[0027] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of the end structure of the switch assembly in FIG1 after the cover, button assembly and fixing frame are removed;

[0028] FIG4 is a schematic diagram of the end structure of the switch assembly in FIG1 after the cover and the fixing frame are removed;

[0029] FIG5 is a schematic structural diagram of the key axis structure in FIG1 ;

[0030] FIG6 is a schematic structural diagram of the knob assembly in FIG1 ;

[0031] FIG7 is a schematic structural diagram of the support frame and the cover body in FIG1 ;

[0032] FIG8 is a schematic structural diagram of the support frame in FIG1 ;

[0033] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of FIG. 1 .

[0034] Explanation of the accompanying drawings: 100, protective film; 200, mounting seat; 201, fixing frame; 202, supporting frame; 2021, shell; 2022, accommodating groove; 203, installation space; 204, sealed cavity; 205, first installation area; 300, button assembly; 301, button shaft structure; 3011, first magnetic structure; 3012, shaft body assembly; 400, first magnetic sensitive device; 500, second magnetic sensitive device; 600, control panel; 700, knob assembly; 701, second magnetic structure; 702, knob body; 800, cover; 900, seal; 110, support bracket; 120, power supply structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The following describes in detail embodiments of the present application, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are intended to be used to explain the present application, and should not be construed as limiting the present application.

[0036] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "upward", "vertical", "horizontal", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "inner side", "outer side" and the like indicate orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be understood as limitations on the present application.

[0037] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and the like are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of the technical features being referred to. Thus, a feature specified as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. Throughout the description of this application, "plurality" means two or more, unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0038] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, terms such as "mounted," "connected," "connect," and "fixed" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integration; mechanical connections or electrical connections; direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and internal connections between two components or interactions between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of these terms in this application based on specific circumstances.

[0039] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of this application more clear, this application is further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0040] Referring to Figures 1-3, an embodiment of the present application provides a switch assembly, which includes a mounting base 200, a button assembly 300 and a first magnetic sensitive device 400; the mounting base 200 forms a closed cavity 204; the button assembly 300 is installed on the mounting base 200, and the button assembly 300 includes a first magnetic structure 3011 with magnetism, and the first magnetic structure 3011 can move relative to the mounting base 200; the first magnetic sensitive device 400 responds to the movement of the first magnetic structure 3011 to generate an electrical signal, and the first magnetic sensitive device 400 is installed in the closed cavity 204.

[0041] Specifically, the mounting base 200 serves the purpose of supporting the button assembly 300 and the first magnetic sensitive device 400. Two mounting areas are formed on the mounting base 200. For example, as shown in Figures 4 and 7, the two mounting areas are respectively a first mounting area 205 and a second mounting area. The first mounting area 205 is used to install the button assembly 300, and the second mounting area is used to install the first magnetic sensitive device 400. The second mounting area is formed with a closed cavity 204. The closed cavity 204 can be formed by combining a groove body and a cover body 800 opened on the mounting base 200. The cover body 800 can be detachably installed in the notch of the groove body to seal the groove body so that the groove body forms a closed cavity 204.

[0042] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the first magnetic sensitive device 400 is installed in the closed cavity 204, so that the first magnetic sensitive device 400 is isolated from the external space, especially from the key assembly 300; water vapor and oil from the external space are not easy to enter the closed cavity 204, and the closed cavity 204 protects the first magnetic sensitive device 400.

[0043] The first magnetic sensor 400 is a combination of one or more of a variety of magnetic sensors. The first magnetic sensor 400 may include a magnetic sensor (or magnetic sensor) such as a Hall sensor, a TMR (tunnel magnetoresistance effect) sensor, an AMR (Anisotropic Magnetoresistive Sensor) sensor, or a GMR (Giant Magneto Resistance) sensor. A Hall sensor is a type of magnetic sensor that can detect magnetic fields and their changes and can be used in various magnetic field-related situations. A Hall sensor, based on the Hall effect, is an integrated sensor consisting of a Hall element and its associated circuitry. A magnetic sensor converts changes in the magnetic properties of a sensitive element caused by external factors such as magnetic fields, currents, stress and strain, temperature, and light into electrical signals, thereby detecting corresponding physical quantities.

[0044] Among them, TMR sensor is the fourth generation of magnetic sensor application technology. TMR sensor has the advantages of high precision, high sensitivity, low power consumption, small size, good temperature stability and wide operating temperature range.

[0045] The TMR effect is a phenomenon involving spin-polarized transport. The mechanism of the TMR effect is spin-dependent tunneling. The TMR structure is a sandwich structure consisting of a ferromagnetic layer, a nonmagnetic insulating layer, and a ferromagnetic layer (FM / I / FM). At saturation magnetization, the magnetization directions of the two ferromagnetic layers are parallel, but the coercivity of the two ferromagnetic layers is typically different. Therefore, during magnetization reversal, the magnetization vector of the ferromagnetic layer with the lower coercivity flips first, causing the magnetization directions of the two ferromagnetic layers to become antiparallel.

[0046] The probability of electrons tunneling from one magnetic layer to the other depends on the magnetization orientations of the two layers. If the magnetization orientations of the two layers are parallel, electrons from the majority spin subband in one layer will enter the empty state of the majority spin subband in the other layer, while electrons from the minority spin subband will also enter the empty state of the minority spin subband in the other layer, resulting in a large total tunneling current. If the magnetization orientations of the two layers are antiparallel, the opposite occurs: electrons from the majority spin subband in one layer will enter the empty state of the minority spin subband in the other layer, while electrons from the minority spin subband will also enter the empty state of the majority spin subband in the other layer, resulting in a smaller tunneling current. Therefore, the tunneling conductance varies with the magnetization orientations of the two ferromagnetic layers, with the conductance being higher when the magnetization vectors are parallel than when they are antiparallel. Applying an external magnetic field can change the magnetization orientations of the two ferromagnetic layers, thereby changing the tunneling resistance and leading to the TMR effect.

[0047] The movement of the first magnetic structure 3011 relative to the mounting base 200 includes the first magnetic structure 3011 being slidably connected to the mounting base 200, or the first magnetic structure 3011 being rotationally connected to the mounting base 200; the first magnetic structure 3011 can be a movable component on the key assembly 300, or the first magnetic structure 3011 is the key assembly 300, that is, the key assembly 300 is made of magnetic material as a whole to form a first magnetic structure 3011 with magnetism.

[0048] Among them, the connection form of the first magnetic structure 3011 relative to the mounting base 200 includes a sliding connection method and may also include a rotating connection method, but is not limited to the two methods of sliding connection and rotating connection, wherein the rotating connection includes rotation around the central axis of the button assembly 300 and swinging around the central axis of the button assembly 300.

[0049] The first magnetic sensitive device 400 is fixedly mounted on the mounting base 200, and the first magnetic structure 3011 (or the button assembly 300) is movably connected to the mounting base 200. Therefore, when the first magnetic structure 3011 moves or rotates relative to the mounting base 200, the first magnetic structure 3011 moves or rotates relative to the first magnetic sensitive device 400. In other words, the position or angle of the first magnetic structure 3011 relative to the first magnetic sensitive device 400 changes.

[0050] The key assembly 300 includes a first magnetic structure 3011 with magnetism, and the first magnetic structure 3011 can form a magnetic field, and the magnetic lines of force of the magnetic field can pass through or transmit through the physical structure of the mounting base 200; the key assembly 300 can be prepared by using a magnetic element that includes magnetism as a whole, for example, the key assembly 300 can be prepared by using a magnet as a whole, and the key assembly 300 is movably connected to the mounting base 200; or, the key assembly 300 is an assembly including magnetic elements, for example, the key assembly 300 may include a key body (i.e., the shaft body assembly 3012 described below) and a first magnetic structure 3011, and the first magnetic structure 3011 can be a magnet, and the first magnetic structure 3011 is movably connected to the key body, and the key body is fixedly mounted on the mounting base 200, and when the first magnetic structure 3011 moves (moves or rotates, etc.) relative to the key body, the first magnetic structure 3011 can move relative to the first magnetic sensitive device 400.

[0051] The first magnetic structure 3011 moves relative to the first magnetic sensitive device 400, so that the magnetic field of the first magnetic structure 3011 relative to the first magnetic sensitive device 400 changes. The first magnetic sensitive device 400 can generate an electrical signal in response to the change in the magnetic field of the first magnetic structure 3011. The first magnetic sensitive device 400 can transmit the electrical signal to an external controller or other control device to achieve the purpose of collecting magnetic field change signals, converting electrical signals and transmitting electrical signal changes. Among them, the controller can adopt an MCU (micro control unit).

[0052] The key assembly 300 is used for the operator to press or rotate, so it can be known that the key assembly 300 needs to be exposed on the mounting base 200. Therefore, it can be understood that the key assembly 300 and the first magnetic sensitive device 400 form a completely isolated installation method, and the first magnetic sensitive device 400 is enclosed and installed in the closed cavity 204 to isolate and seal the first magnetic sensitive device 400, and the key assembly 300 is installed at a position on the mounting base 200 that can be touched. The movement of the first magnetic structure 3011 on the key assembly 300 can trigger the first magnetic sensitive device 400 to generate an electrical signal, that is, the first magnetic sensitive device 400 can respond to the movement of the first magnetic structure 3011 to generate an electrical signal and can transmit the electrical signal; the electrical signal includes a voltage signal, a current signal or a resistance signal, etc.

[0053] Among them, the mounting base 200 can be made of metal material or plastic. The metal material includes but is not limited to aluminum alloy. The magnetic lines or magnetic flux can penetrate the metal material and plastic, does not affect the signal collection, and can improve the structural strength of the switch component.

[0054] When the switch assembly is in use, the operator presses or rotates the button assembly 300, or the operator presses or rotates the first magnetic structure 3011 on the button assembly 300, so that the first magnetic structure 3011 moves relative to the mounting base 200. At this time, the first magnetic sensitive device 400 can detect the magnetic field changes of the first magnetic structure 3011 and output corresponding electrical signals, that is, completing the process of converting the magnetic field changes into electrical signals. The controller can capture the electrical signals and process them to complete the detection of various physical quantities. For example, various non-electrical and non-magnetic physical quantities such as force, torque, pressure, stress, position, displacement, speed, acceleration, angle, angular velocity, number of revolutions, rotational speed, and the time when the working state changes can be detected through the switch assembly, and converted into electrical quantities for detection and control.

[0055] In this embodiment, the switch assembly combines a key assembly 300 including a first magnetic structure 3011 with a first magnetic sensor 400. The key assembly 300 generates a magnetic field, enabling the first magnetic sensor 400 to generate an electrical signal in response to changes in the magnetic field caused by the movement of the first magnetic structure 3011. This allows the key assembly 300 or the first magnetic structure 3011 to generate an electrical signal in response to the movement of the first magnetic sensor 400, even when the key assembly 300 or the first magnetic structure 3011 is not in direct contact with the first magnetic sensor 400, or when the key assembly 300 is separated from the first magnetic sensor 400 by a different space. Therefore, in this switch assembly, the first magnetic sensor 400 can be independently housed in the sealed cavity 204. The sealed cavity 204 is better isolated from the outside world, resulting in a more sealed switch assembly. External moisture and oil pollution are less likely to damage the first magnetic sensor 400. With enhanced waterproof and oil-proof capabilities, the switch assembly can be better used in kitchen environments with harsh external environments.

[0056] In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, there are multiple first magnetic sensitive devices 400; the button assembly 300 includes multiple first magnetic structures 3011, and the first magnetic structures 3011 are configured in a one-to-one correspondence with the first magnetic sensitive devices 400. The first magnetic structures 3011 can move in a direction toward or away from the corresponding first magnetic sensitive devices 400.

[0057] Specifically, a general switch assembly has multiple control functions. Therefore, it is understandable that the button assembly 300 needs to have multiple pressing control parts. Therefore, the button assembly 300 includes multiple button axis structures 301, and one button axis structure 301 forms a control button or a pressing control part.

[0058] There are multiple first magnetic sensitive devices 400; the button assembly 300 includes multiple first magnetic structures 3011, and the first magnetic structures 3011 are configured in a one-to-one correspondence with the first magnetic sensitive devices 400. Each first magnetic structure 3011 slides or rotates relative to the mounting base 200, and each first magnetic structure 3011 can move in a direction toward or away from the corresponding first magnetic sensitive device 400.

[0059] In this embodiment, the button assembly 300 adopts a press-type structure, and the output of the electrical signal can be achieved by pressing the operation, making the operator's control operation more convenient; in addition, by setting a combination of multiple groups of first magnetic structures 3011 and first magnetic sensitive devices 400, the switch structure has multiple button control functions, so that the switch structure has more control functions; furthermore, multiple first magnetic sensitive devices 400 can be independently accommodated in the closed cavity 204, and the closed cavity 204 is better isolated from the external space, so that the sealing effect of the switch assembly is better, and the external water vapor and oil are not easy to damage the first magnetic sensitive device 400. After the waterproof and oil-proof capabilities of the switch assembly are enhanced, it can be better used in kitchen environments with harsh external environments.

[0060] In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 1, 3 and 4, the key assembly 300 includes multiple key axis structures 301, each key axis structure 301 includes an axis body assembly 3012 and a first magnetic structure 3011, the key axis structure 301 is configured in a one-to-one correspondence with the first magnetic sensitive device 400, the first magnetic structure 3011 is slidably connected to the corresponding axis body assembly 3012, and the axis body assembly 3012 is installed on the mounting base 200.

[0061] Specifically, a general switch assembly has multiple control functions. Therefore, it is understandable that the button assembly 300 needs to have multiple pressing control parts. Therefore, the button assembly 300 includes multiple button axis structures 301, and one button axis structure 301 forms a control button or a pressing control part.

[0062] The number of key axis structures 301 is the same as the number of first magnetic sensitive devices 400, so that one key axis structure 301 is arranged opposite to one first magnetic sensitive device 400; multiple key axis structures 301 are installed in an array on the mounting base 200 to form a touch panel of the switch structure, and protective paper or protective film 100 with silk screen of key functions can be attached to the touch surface of the multiple key axis structures 301 to enhance the anti-oil pollution ability, and play the role of protecting the key axis structure 301 and the aesthetic effect.

[0063] Among them, in a possible implementation method, combined with Figure 5, the key shaft structure 301 includes a shaft body component 3012 and a first magnetic structure 3011, the shaft body component 3012 includes a pressing shaft core, a pressing seat and an elastic member, the first magnetic structure 3011 is fixedly installed on the pressing axis, the first magnetic structure 3011 can be a magnet, the elastic member can be a spring member, the pressing shaft core is slidably connected to the pressing seat through the elastic member, the first magnetic structure 3011 is fixedly installed on the pressing shaft core, and when operating, pressing or resisting the end of the pressing shaft core, so that The pressing shaft core moves relative to the pressing seat. It can be understood that at this time, the first magnetic structure 3011 moves relative to the first magnetic sensitive device 400, and the first magnetic structure 3011 can move close to the first magnetic sensitive device 400. The first magnetic sensitive device 400 outputs an electrical signal in response to the change of the magnetic field of the first magnetic structure 3011; release the pressing shaft core, and the pressing shaft core returns to its initial position under the action of the elastic member, that is, the first magnetic structure 3011 moves in a direction away from the first magnetic sensitive device 400 and returns to its initial position.

[0064] In this embodiment, the button assembly 300 adopts a press-type button shaft structure 301, which can realize the output of electrical signals by pressing the operation, making the operator's control operation more convenient; in addition, multiple first magnetic sensitive devices 400 can be independently accommodated in the closed cavity 204, and the closed cavity 204 is better isolated from the external space, so that the sealing effect of the switch assembly is better, and the external water vapor and oil are not easy to damage the first magnetic sensitive device 400. After the waterproof and oil-proof capabilities of the switch assembly are enhanced, it can be better used in kitchen environments with harsh external environments.

[0065] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 1, 4 and 6, the switch assembly further includes a knob assembly 700 and a second magnetic sensitive device 500. The knob assembly 700 includes a second magnetic structure 701 having magnetism. The knob assembly 700 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 200. The second magnetic sensitive device 500 generates an electrical signal in response to the rotation of the knob assembly 700. The second magnetic sensitive device 500 is mounted in the sealed cavity 204.

[0066] Specifically, the second magnetic sensitive device 500 is installed in the closed cavity 204, so that the second magnetic sensitive device 500 is isolated from the external space, especially from the key assembly 300; water vapor and oil pollution in the external space are not easy to enter the closed cavity 204, and the closed cavity 204 protects the second magnetic sensitive device 500.

[0067] It should be noted that the sealed cavity 204 can be a cavity, and the first magnetic sensitive device 400 and the second magnetic sensitive device 500 are both installed in the same cavity; the sealed cavity 204 can also include multiple isolated cavities, and the first magnetic sensitive device 400 and the second magnetic sensitive device 500 can be installed in different cavities respectively.

[0068] The second magnetic sensor 500 is capable of generating an electrical signal in response to the rotation of the knob assembly 700. In other words, the second magnetic sensor 500 is a magnetic angle sensor. The second magnetic sensor 500 is a combination of one or more of a variety of magnetic sensors. The second magnetic sensor 500 may include a magnetic angle sensor (or simply a magnetic angle sensor), such as a Hall effect angle sensor (or Hall sensor), a TMR angle sensor (or TMR sensor), an AMR angle sensor (or AMR sensor), or a GMR angle sensor (or GMR sensor). A Hall effect angle sensor is a sensor used for magnetic angle measurement. It detects magnetic fields and their changes, responding to changes in magnetic field angles and can be used in various magnetic field-related applications. A Hall effect angle sensor is an integrated sensor consisting of a Hall element and its associated circuitry, based on the Hall effect. A magnetic angle sensor converts changes in the magnetic properties of a sensor element caused by external factors such as magnetic field, current, stress and strain, temperature, and light into electrical signals, thereby detecting the corresponding physical quantity.

[0069] When the magnet (i.e., second magnetic structure 701) rotates over the TMR sensor, the magnetization direction of the free layer follows the direction of the magnet's magnetic field, causing the resistance of the TMR element to continuously change. Because the resistance is proportional to the relative angle between the magnetization directions of the pinned and free layers, the TMR element can be used as an angle sensor.

[0070] The knob assembly 700 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 200 around its own central axis, and the rotation angle of the knob assembly 700 is between 0° and 360°.

[0071] The knob assembly 700 includes a second magnetic structure 701 having magnetism. The knob assembly 700 can form a magnetic field, and the magnetic flux lines of the magnetic field can pass through or transmit through the physical structure of the mounting base 200. The knob assembly 700 can be prepared as a whole using magnetic elements. For example, the knob assembly 700 can be prepared as a whole using magnets. Alternatively, the knob assembly 700 is an assembly including magnetic elements. For example, the knob assembly 700 may include a knob body 702 and a second magnetic structure 701. The knob body 702 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 200, and the second magnetic structure 701 is fixedly mounted on the knob body 702. When the knob body 702 rotates relative to the mounting base 200, the second magnetic structure 701 can rotate along with the knob body 702.

[0072] The knob assembly 700 rotates relative to the second magnetic sensitive device 500, so that the magnetic field of the second magnetic structure 701 in the knob assembly 700 changes relative to the second magnetic sensitive device 500. The second magnetic sensitive device 500 can generate an electrical signal in response to the change in the magnetic field of the second magnetic structure 701. The second magnetic sensitive device 500 can transmit the electrical signal to an external controller or other control device to achieve the purpose of collecting magnetic field change signals, converting electrical signals and transmitting electrical signal changes. Among them, the controller can adopt an MCU (micro control unit).

[0073] The knob assembly 700 is used for the operator to perform rotation operations, so it can be known that the knob assembly 700 needs to be exposed on the mounting base 200. Therefore, it can be understood that the knob assembly 700 and the second magnetic sensitive device 500 form a completely isolated installation method, and the second magnetic sensitive device 500 is sealed and installed in the closed cavity 204, forming isolation and sealing protection for the second magnetic sensitive device 500, and the knob assembly 700 is installed in a touchable position on the mounting base 200. The rotation of the second magnetic structure 701 in the knob assembly 700 can trigger the second magnetic sensitive device 500 to generate an electrical signal. That is, the second magnetic sensitive device 500 can respond to the rotation of the second magnetic structure 701 to generate an electrical signal and can transmit the electrical signal; the electrical signal includes a voltage signal, a current signal or a resistance signal, etc.

[0074] When the switch assembly is in use, the operator rotates the knob assembly 700 to rotate the knob assembly 700 relative to the mounting base 200. At this time, the second magnetic sensitive device 500 can detect the magnetic field changes of the second magnetic structure 701 and output corresponding electrical signals, that is, completing the process of converting the magnetic field changes into electrical signals. The controller can capture the electrical signals and process them to complete the detection of various physical quantities.

[0075] In this embodiment, the knob assembly 700 and the second magnetic sensitive device 500 can be a control part newly provided on the basis of the key assembly 300 and the first magnetic sensitive device 400, that is, the switch assembly includes both the key assembly 300 and the first magnetic sensitive device 400, and the switch assembly also includes the knob assembly 700 and the second magnetic sensitive device 500. In other words, the switch assembly can be controlled by pressing the key assembly 300 or by rotating the knob assembly 700; alternatively, the knob assembly 700 and the second magnetic sensitive device 500 can replace the key assembly 300 and the first magnetic sensitive device 400. In other words, the switch structure only includes the knob assembly 700 and the second magnetic sensitive device 500, and the switch assembly can be controlled by rotating the knob assembly 700.

[0076] In one embodiment, there are multiple second magnetic sensitive devices 500; the knob assembly 700 includes multiple knob shaft structures, each knob shaft structure includes a knob body 702 and a second magnetic structure 701, the knob shaft structures are configured in a one-to-one correspondence with the second magnetic sensitive device 500, each knob shaft structure is rotatably connected to the mounting base 200, and each knob shaft structure can rotate around an axis perpendicular to the surface of the second magnetic sensitive device 500.

[0077] In this embodiment, the number of knob shaft structures and second magnetic sensing devices 500 is the same, with one knob shaft structure positioned opposite to another, and multiple knob shaft structures arrayed on the mounting base 200 to form a touch panel with a switch structure. The knob assembly 700 utilizes a rotary knob shaft structure, which can output electrical signals through rotation, making control operations more convenient for the operator. Furthermore, the multiple second magnetic sensing devices 500 can be independently housed within the sealed cavity 204, which is better isolated from the outside world, resulting in a more effective seal for the switch assembly. External moisture and oil pollution are less likely to damage the second magnetic sensing devices 500. With enhanced waterproof and oil-proof capabilities, the switch assembly can be better suited for use in harsh kitchen environments.

[0078] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 2, 3 and 7, the mounting base 200 includes a fixing frame 201 and a support frame 202 connected to the fixing frame 201, the fixing frame 201 is provided with an installation space 203, and the button assembly 300 is movably installed in the installation space 203; a closed cavity 204 is formed in the support frame 202.

[0079] Specifically, the fixing frame 201 can be a frame or plate-like structure. The mounting space 203 can be a mounting slot defined on the mounting surface of the fixing frame 201. The mounting slot can be a hole structure with a through-hole extending from the bottom to the top. The key assembly 300 is mounted within the mounting slot. When the key assembly 300 includes multiple key shaft structures 301, the number of mounting slots is equal to the number of key shaft structures 301, with each key shaft assembly being mounted within a mounting slot. The fixing frame 201 is plate-like, with the mounting slots arranged in an array on the fixing frame 201. The fixing frame 201 can be detachably connected to the support frame 202.

[0080] In this embodiment, the fixing frame 201 and the supporting frame 202 can be made of aluminum alloy or plastic, so that the key assembly 300 can be installed in the installation slot, and the operating part of the key assembly 300 can be exposed at the notch of the installation slot to facilitate the operator to perform pressing operations.

[0081] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 7, 8 and 9, the support frame 202 includes a shell 2021 and a cover 800. The shell 2021 is provided with a receiving groove 2022. The first magnetic sensitive device 400 is installed in the receiving groove 2022. The cover 800 is detachably connected to the notch of the receiving groove 2022. The shell 2021 and the cover 800 are connected to jointly enclose a closed cavity 204; the second magnetic sensitive device 500 is also located in the receiving groove 2022.

[0082] Specifically, in one embodiment, the accommodating groove 2022 is a blind groove structure with a notch. Correspondingly, a cover 800 is configured. The cover 800 is detachably covered on the notch of the accommodating groove 2022 , so that the accommodating groove 2022 forms a closed cavity 204 .

[0083] Optionally, the accommodating groove 2022 can also be a through groove structure or a through hole structure with two notches. Correspondingly, two cover bodies 800 are configured, and one cover body 800 is detachably covered on one notch of the accommodating groove 2022 to form a closed cavity 204 of the accommodating groove 2022.

[0084] In this embodiment, the shell 2021 extends linearly, the cross-section of the shell 2021 is rectangular, the accommodating groove 2022 is opened at the end of the shell 2021, the notch of the accommodating groove 2022 is located on the end face of the shell 2021, and a mounting surface is formed on the extended surface (or side) of the shell 2021. The fixing frame 201 is installed on the mounting surface, and the fixing frame 201 is stacked on the mounting surface; a plurality of key axis structures 301 are arranged in an array on the mounting surface.

[0085] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9 , the support frame 202 further includes a sealing member 900 . The sealing member 900 is connected between the receiving groove of the housing and the cover 800 .

[0086] Specifically, the seal 900 can be a silicone sealing sheet, the cover body 800 is in sheet shape, the size of the seal 900 matches the cover body 800, the seal 900 is arranged parallel to the cover body 800, and the seal 900 is located between the cover body 800 and the notch of the accommodating groove 2022, so that when the cover body 800 is covered on the notch of the accommodating groove 2022, a sealing ring is formed between the cover body 800 and the notch.

[0087] In this embodiment, by providing a sealing member 900, the seal between the cover body 800 and the notch of the accommodating groove 2022 is tighter, which is beneficial to improving the sealing performance of the accommodating groove 2022 and forming a closed cavity 204. The first magnetic sensitive device 400 and the second magnetic sensitive device 500 can both be independently accommodated in the closed cavity 204, and the closed cavity 204 is better isolated from the external space, so that the sealing effect of the switch assembly is better.

[0088] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3 , FIG. 4 and FIG. 9 , the switch assembly further includes a control board 600 , and the first magnetic sensor 400 is electrically connected to the control board 600 ; the control board 600 is installed in the sealed cavity 204 .

[0089] Specifically, the control board 600 can be a circuit board. When there are multiple first magnetic sensitive devices 400, the multiple first magnetic sensitive devices 400 are arranged in an array on the control board 600; and the second magnetic sensitive device 500 is also installed on the control board 600 and electrically connected to the control board 600.

[0090] The switch assembly also includes a support bracket 110 for mounting the control panel 600 . The support bracket 110 is made of insulating plastic or plastic material. The control panel 600 is mounted on the support bracket 110 . The support bracket 110 is mounted in the sealed cavity 204 and fixed to the cavity wall of the sealed cavity 204 .

[0091] In this embodiment, by providing a control board 600, the first magnetic sensitive devices 400 and the second magnetic sensitive devices 500 are arrayed and electrically connected to the control board 600. The control board 600 is connected to the closed cavity 204 of the mounting base 200 via the support bracket 110. The support bracket 110 supports the control board 600, which is beneficial to improving the stability of the control board 600.

[0092] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9 , the switch assembly further includes a power supply structure 120 , which is electrically connected to the control board 600 .

[0093] Specifically, the power supply structure 120 is a power source for supplying power to the control board 600. The power supply structure 120 can be a rechargeable battery or an ordinary battery. The mounting base 200 of the switch assembly is provided with an installation compartment for installing the power supply structure 120. The power supply structure 120 is installed in the installation compartment so that it can be electrically connected to the control board 600 to supply power to the control board 600.

[0094] In this embodiment, by providing the power supply structure 120, the external power supply line of the switch structure can be reduced, and the entire switch structure can be powered without providing an external charging plug, making the overall structure of the switch structure more simple, compact, and more beautiful in appearance.

[0095] An embodiment of the present application further provides an intelligent control device, which includes the switch assembly in the above embodiment.

[0096] The above-mentioned intelligent control devices may include kitchen keyboards, various control panels of kitchen appliances, etc., and of course, may include various electrical appliances that can be automatically controlled by switches.

[0097] In this embodiment, the switch assembly in the intelligent control device combines a key assembly 300 including a first magnetic structure 3011 with a first magnetic sensor 400. The key assembly 300 is capable of generating a magnetic field, enabling the first magnetic sensor 400 to generate an electrical signal in response to changes in the magnetic field caused by the movement of the first magnetic structure 3011. This allows the key assembly 300 or the first magnetic structure 3011 to generate an electrical signal in response to the movement of the first magnetic sensor 400, even when the key assembly 300 or the first magnetic structure 3011 is not in direct contact with the first magnetic sensor 400, or when the key assembly 300 is separated from the first magnetic sensor 400 by a different space. Therefore, in this switch assembly, the first magnetic sensor 400 can be independently housed in the sealed cavity 204, which is better isolated from the external space, resulting in a more effective sealing effect for the switch assembly. External moisture and oil pollution are less likely to damage the first magnetic sensor 400. With enhanced waterproof and oil-proof capabilities, the switch assembly can be better used in kitchen environments with harsh external environments.

[0098] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present application and only specifically describe the technical principles of the present application. These descriptions are intended only to explain the principles of the present application and should not be construed in any way as limiting the scope of protection of the present application. Based on the explanations herein, any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present application, as well as other specific implementations of the present application that can be conceived by those skilled in the art without inventive effort, shall be included within the scope of protection of the present application.

Claims

1. A switch assembly, wherein: include: A mounting seat, forming a closed cavity; A button assembly is mounted on the mounting seat, wherein the button assembly includes a first magnetic structure having magnetism, and the first magnetic structure can move relative to the mounting seat; and The first magnetic sensor generates an electrical signal in response to the movement of the first magnetic structure, and the first magnetic sensor is installed in the closed cavity.

2. The switch assembly of claim 1, wherein: There are multiple first magnetic sensitive devices; the button assembly includes multiple first magnetic structures, the first magnetic structures are configured in a one-to-one correspondence with the first magnetic sensitive devices, and the first magnetic structures can move in a direction toward or away from the corresponding first magnetic sensitive devices.

3. The switch assembly of claim 2, wherein: The button assembly includes a plurality of button axis structures, each of which includes an axis body assembly and the first magnetic structure. The button axis structures are configured one-to-one with the first magnetic sensitive devices. The first magnetic structure is slidably connected to the corresponding axis body assembly, and the axis body assembly is mounted on the mounting seat.

4. The switch assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The switch assembly also includes a knob assembly and a second magnetic sensitive device, wherein the knob assembly includes a second magnetic structure having magnetism, and the knob assembly is rotatably connected to the mounting base; the second magnetic sensitive device generates an electrical signal in response to the rotation of the knob assembly; and the second magnetic sensitive device is mounted in the closed cavity.

5. The switch assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The mounting seat comprises a fixing frame and a supporting frame connected to the fixing frame, the fixing frame is provided with an installation space, and the button assembly is movably installed in the installation space; the enclosed cavity is formed in the supporting frame.

6. The switch assembly of claim 5, wherein: The support frame includes a shell and a cover body, the shell is provided with a receiving groove, the first magnetic sensitive device is installed in the receiving groove, the cover body is detachably connected to the notch of the receiving groove, and the shell and the cover body are connected to jointly enclose the closed cavity.

7. The switch assembly of claim 6, wherein: The support frame also includes a sealing member connected between the receiving groove notch of the shell and the cover body.

8. The switch assembly of claim 4, wherein: The first magnetic sensitive device includes a Hall sensor, a TMR sensor, an AMR sensor or a GMR sensor; the second magnetic sensitive device includes a Hall angle sensor, a TMR angle sensor, an AMR angle sensor or a GMR angle sensor.

9. The switch assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The switch assembly further includes a control board, the first magnetic sensitive device is electrically connected to the control board; the control board is installed in the closed cavity; and / or The switch assembly further includes a power supply structure electrically connected to the control board.

10. An intelligent control device, wherein: A switch assembly is included, the switch assembly comprising: A mounting seat, forming a closed cavity; A button assembly is mounted on the mounting seat, wherein the button assembly includes a first magnetic structure having magnetism, and the first magnetic structure can move relative to the mounting seat; and A first magnetic sensitive device generates an electrical signal in response to the movement of the first magnetic structure, wherein the first magnetic sensitive device The device is installed in the sealed cavity.

11. The intelligent control device according to claim 10, wherein: There are multiple first magnetic sensitive devices; the button assembly includes multiple first magnetic structures, the first magnetic structures are configured in a one-to-one correspondence with the first magnetic sensitive devices, and the first magnetic structures can move in a direction toward or away from the corresponding first magnetic sensitive devices.

12. The intelligent control device according to claim 11, wherein: The button assembly includes a plurality of button axis structures, each of which includes an axis body assembly and the first magnetic structure. The button axis structures are configured one-to-one with the first magnetic sensitive devices. The first magnetic structure is slidably connected to the corresponding axis body assembly, and the axis body assembly is mounted on the mounting seat.

13. The intelligent control device according to claim 10, wherein: The switch assembly also includes a knob assembly and a second magnetic sensitive device, wherein the knob assembly includes a second magnetic structure having magnetism, and the knob assembly is rotatably connected to the mounting base; the second magnetic sensitive device generates an electrical signal in response to the rotation of the knob assembly; and the second magnetic sensitive device is mounted in the closed cavity.

14. The intelligent control device according to claim 10, wherein: The mounting seat comprises a fixing frame and a supporting frame connected to the fixing frame, the fixing frame is provided with an installation space, and the button assembly is movably installed in the installation space; the enclosed cavity is formed in the supporting frame.

15. The intelligent control device according to claim 14, wherein: The support frame includes a shell and a cover body, the shell is provided with a receiving groove, the first magnetic sensitive device is installed in the receiving groove, the cover body is detachably connected to the notch of the receiving groove, and the shell and the cover body are connected to jointly enclose the closed cavity.

16. The intelligent control device according to claim 15, wherein: The support frame also includes a sealing member connected between the receiving groove notch of the shell and the cover body.

17. The intelligent control device according to claim 13, wherein: The first magnetic sensitive device includes a Hall sensor, a TMR sensor, an AMR sensor or a GMR sensor; the second magnetic sensitive device includes a Hall angle sensor, a TMR angle sensor, an AMR angle sensor or a GMR angle sensor.

18. The intelligent control device according to claim 10, wherein: The switch assembly further includes a control board, the first magnetic sensitive device is electrically connected to the control board; the control board is installed in the closed cavity; and / or The switch assembly further includes a power supply structure electrically connected to the control board.

Citation Information

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