Knob assembly

Abstract

Provided is a knob assembly which allows, in a state in which a magnetic body is insert-coupled to the bottom of a light guide coupled along a central axis of the knob assembly constituting a transmission, the magnetic body to be simultaneously rotated according to rotational driving of the knob assembly and the light guide. By removing a small gear constituting a conventional dial transmission, the overall size of the transmission can be reduced, and at the same time, movement of a magnetic body and implementation of illumination to a knob assembly are enabled by means of rotation of only a light guide integrally coupled to the knob assembly and simultaneously rotated.

Description

Knob assembly

[0001] The present invention relates to a knob assembly. In particular, the present invention relates to a knob assembly having a light guide coupled to a magnetic body.

[0002] The dial-type gear shifter allows for easy shifting without requiring any effort compared to a conventional gear knob.

[0003] Looking at the existing dial-type gear, it has a method in which a large gear is connected to a knob, which is the center of rotation, and a small gear for a magnet that engages the gear through tooth meshing with the large gear, and the magnet rotates according to the rotation of the knob.

[0004] As mentioned above, in order to detect electronic control according to the rotation of the knob, a separate magnet gear had to be manufactured to mesh with the outside of the gear that was integrally connected to the knob.

[0005] Meanwhile, improper gear design between the gear and the small gear can lead to measurement errors. Furthermore, the meshing between the gears can generate noise and require a separate space for the small gear for the magnet.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a knob assembly comprises: a knob sub-assembly having a hollow shape; a light guide having at least a portion accommodated in the knob sub-assembly and formed by being sunken in the upper surface to form a guide hollow portion extending downward; a magnetic body coupled to a lower end of the light guide; and a substrate assembly positioned below the light guide.

[0007] The substrate assembly may include a Hall sensor positioned below the magnetic body and facing the magnetic body; and a light source positioned below the light guide and facing the light guide.

[0008] The above light source may include a plurality of light sources arranged in a circumferential direction centered on the Hall sensor.

[0009] The above magnetic body can be insert-coupled to the light guide.

[0010] The positive and negative poles of the above magnetic body can be arranged in a horizontal direction.

[0011] The light guide may include a guide body to which the magnetic body is coupled and extends upward from the bottom to the top; and a guide diffusion portion extending upward from the top of the guide body, and the guide hollow portion may include a guide diffusion hollow portion formed in the guide diffusion portion and open upward.

[0012] The above guide diffusion portion may include a second inner total reflection surface facing the guide diffusion hollow portion and forming a funnel shape.

[0013] The knob sub-assembly may further include a light ring, which is accommodated in the above knob sub-assembly and is arranged to contact an upper portion of the guide diffusion portion. The guide diffusion portion includes: the second inner total reflection surface; a second outer total reflection surface forming an outer surface of the guide diffusion portion; and a light emitting surface connecting an upper portion of the second inner total reflection surface and an upper portion of the second outer total reflection surface, wherein the light ring can contact the light emitting surface.

[0014] The above guide hollow portion may further include a guide body hollow portion formed in the guide body and connected to the guide diffusion hollow portion.

[0015] The above magnetic body may be in the shape of a ring.

[0016] The above Hall sensor includes a plurality of Hall sensors arranged in a circumferential direction below the magnetic body, and the light source can be surrounded by the plurality of Hall sensors.

[0017] The above light guide can be formed of a material including PC (PolyCarbonate).

[0018] The above knob sub-assembly may include: a knob body having a grippable hollow shape; a knob cover disposed on an open upper inner side of the knob body; a knob skirt disposed on a lower portion of the knob body and supporting a lower portion of the knob body; and a moving block disposed to face the knob body with respect to the knob skirt.

[0019] A housing for accommodating the knob sub-assembly is further included, wherein the housing comprises: an upper housing having a hollow shape; a bottom housing coupled to an open lower portion of the upper housing; and a moving block supported by the bottom housing, wherein the knob sub-assembly can be rotatably coupled to the support block.

[0020]

[0021] The effects of the knob assembly according to the present invention are described as follows.

[0022] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, the number of molds required for manufacturing a gear is reduced by eliminating a conventional magnet gear that is gear-meshed on the outside of a gear coupled to a knob assembly.

[0023] In addition, it is possible to eliminate the possibility of design errors in the connection between gears and noise caused by gear meshing.

[0024] In addition, by eliminating the small gear, the overall size of the transmission is reduced, and the rotation of the light guide, which is integrally coupled to the knob assembly and rotates simultaneously, enables the rotation of the magnetic body and the illumination of the knob assembly.

[0025] Further scope of the applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description below. However, since various modifications and variations within the spirit and scope of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, such as preferred embodiments of the present invention, are given by way of example only.

[0026]

[0027] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a knob assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the knob assembly illustrated in Fig. 1 taken along line A1-A2.

[0029] Figure 3 is a drawing of the knob assembly illustrated in Figure 1 with the housing removed.

[0030] Figure 4 shows an exploded view of Figure 3.

[0031] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the knob assembly shown in Fig. 3 taken along line B1-B2.

[0032] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the square dotted line portion of Figure 5.

[0033] Figure 7 shows a magnetic body according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the magnetic body illustrated in Fig. 7 taken along line C1-C2.

[0035] Figure 9 shows a light guide according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the light guide illustrated in Fig. 9 taken along line D1-D2.

[0037] FIG. 11 shows the arrangement relationship between a Hall sensor and a light source mounted on a substrate according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the light guide illustrated in Fig. 9 taken along line D1-D2, showing a ring-shaped magnetic body.

[0039] Figure 13 shows the relationship between a light source and a plurality of Hall sensors arranged around the light source.

[0040]

[0041] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components will be given the same reference numbers and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing the specification, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves. In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.

[0042] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0043] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may also be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0044] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0045] In this application, terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the specification, but should be understood not to exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0046] For convenience of explanation, the sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated or reduced. For example, the sizes and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily indicated for convenience of explanation, and thus the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is shown.

[0047] In some embodiments, where implementations are otherwise feasible, specific process sequences may be performed in a different order than described. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed substantially simultaneously, or in a reverse order from the described order.

[0048] In the following examples, when it is said that a film, region, component, etc. are connected, it includes not only cases where the films, regions, and components are directly connected, but also cases where other films, regions, and components are interposed between the films, regions, and components and thus indirectly connected. For example, when it is said in this specification that a film, region, component, etc. are electrically connected, it includes not only cases where the films, regions, and components are directly electrically connected, but also cases where other films, regions, and components are interposed between them and thus indirectly electrically connected.

[0049] Any or all of the embodiments of the present invention described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct. Any or all of the embodiments of the present invention described above may have their respective components or functions combined or used together.

[0050]

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a knob assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a knob subassembly (100).

[0052] The knob sub-assembly (100) forms the basic structure of the knob assembly (10), and can be simultaneously rotated while in an integrated state. The knob sub-assembly (100) can enable the user to directly grasp the knob sub-assembly (100) during electronic gear shifting. For example, the user can perform a rotational motion of the knob sub-assembly (100) while wrapping the knob sub-assembly (100) with the palm and fingers.

[0053] The knob subassembly (100) may include a knob body (110). The knob body (110) may have a hollow shape. For example, the knob body (110) may have a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0054] For example, the knob body (110) may extend from the bottom to the top. For example, the knob body (110) may have a cylindrical shape that is open upward and downward. Protrusions or protrusions may be formed on the outer periphery of the knob body (110). This can improve the user's grip feeling and facilitate smooth gear shifting.

[0055] The knob subassembly (100) may include a knob ring (120). The knob ring (120) may be disposed on the inside of the knob body (110).

[0056] The knob ring (120) may be fixed or coupled to the knob body (110). For example, a ring coupling projection (not shown) formed on the knob body (110) may be coupled to a knob ring coupling groove (not shown) formed on the knob ring (120), or a ring coupling groove (not shown) formed on the knob body (110) may be coupled to a knob ring coupling projection (not shown) formed on the knob ring (120).

[0057] The ring engaging projection of the knob body (110) may be in the form of a hook having a structure that catches on a groove. For example, the ring engaging projection of the knob body (110) may be a hook formed on the inner surface of the knob body (110).

[0058] The knob ring (120) may have a hollow shape. For example, the knob ring (120) may have a hollow cylindrical shape. For example, the knob ring (120) may have a cylindrical shape that extends from the bottom to the top, but is open upward and downward. The knob ring (120) may have a plurality of ribs formed thereon to maintain rigidity.

[0059] The knob subassembly (100) may include a knob cover (130).

[0060] The knob cover (130) may be placed on the upper portion of the knob body (110). Specifically, the knob cover (130) may be placed on the upper inner side of the knob body (110) to block a portion of the open upper area of ​​the knob body (110).

[0061] The knob cover (130) may include a cover plate (131). The cover plate (131) may be placed on the open upper portion of the knob body (110). The cover plate (131) may close the open upper portion of the knob body (110).

[0062] The knob cover (130) may include a cover coupling portion (135). The cover coupling portion (135) may extend from the cover plate (131). The cover coupling portion (135) may extend downward from the lower center of the cover plate (131).

[0063]

[0064] The above cover plate (131) can form the upper center of the knob sub-assembly (100). The cover plate (131) can form the upper center of the knob body (110). The cover coupling portion (135) can be assembled to the light ring (400) described below.

[0065] The knob subassembly (100) may include a knob skirt (140). The knob skirt (140) may be positioned at the lower portion of the knob body (110). The knob skirt (140) may have a circular plate shape with a central portion that is perforated.

[0066] The knob skirt (140) may be positioned to support the lower portion of the knob body (110). For example, the knob skirt (140) may be formed to be curved along the lower contour of the knob body (110) while extending outward in a radial direction from the lower edge of the knob body (110).

[0067] The knob subassembly (100) may include a moving block (150). The moving block (150) may be positioned at the bottom of the knob body (110).

[0068] The moving block (150) may be positioned to face the knob body (110) with respect to the knob skirt (140). For example, the upper portion of the moving block (150) may be positioned to face the lower portion of the knob body (110) in the vertical direction with respect to the knob skirt (140). The moving block (150) may have a cylindrical shape with a central portion that is perforated.

[0069] The moving block (150) may include a block upper body (151) that is directly coupled to the knob skirt (140) and a block lower body (155) that extends downward from the lower inner side of the block upper body (151).

[0070] The knob subassembly (100) may include a sealing member (160). The sealing member (160) may have an overall ring shape. The sealing member (160) may be disposed between the knob body (110) and the knob skirt (140). The sealing member (160) may be disposed between the lower end of the knob body (110) and the upper end of the knob skirt (140).

[0071] The sealing member (160) may include a sealing plate (161) that is positioned in close contact with the outer lower portion of the knob body (110) and a sealing protrusion (165) that extends downward from the lower end of the sealing plate (161).

[0072] The sealing protrusion (165) can be fitted into a sealing groove (not shown) formed on the upper surface of the knob skirt (140). The sealing groove can have a concave groove shape including a V or U shape on the upper surface of the knob skirt (140). It is possible to prevent fluid or external foreign substances from penetrating into the interior of the knob sub-assembly (100) through the joint point between the knob body (110) and the knob skirt (140).

[0073] The knob sub-assembly (100) may include a catch member (170). The catch member (170) may have an overall ring shape. The catch member (170) may be positioned at the bottom of the moving block (150). The catch member (170) is coupled to the bottom of the moving block (150) and may rotate together with the moving block (150).

[0074] The lower portion of the catch member (170) may have a plurality of protrusions formed along the circumference. For example, the catch member (170) may have a shape in which triangular protrusions protruding downward along the circumference are continuously arranged on the lower portion thereof.

[0075] When the knob sub-assembly (100) is driven to rotate, the degree of rotation of the engaging member (170) can be determined through a plurality of protrusions such as the triangular protrusions described above. That is, a spring structure (not shown) may be placed on the support block (630) of the housing (600) described later, and the degree of rotation of the engaging member (170) can be determined through a periodic engaging relationship between the spring structure and a plurality of protrusions formed on the engaging member (170).

[0076] For example, during the rotational driving process of the knob sub-assembly (100), the degree of rotation can be determined through sounds such as clicks and ticks generated through contact between the triangular projections and the spring structure.

[0077] The knob subassembly (100) may include a bearing (180). The bearing (180) may have an overall ring shape.

[0078] The bearing (180) may be a structure surrounding the moving block (150). For example, the bearing (180) may be a structure fitted to the outer circumference of the moving block (150). For example, the bearing (180) may be a structure fitted between the block upper body (151) and the block lower body (155) constituting the moving block (150).

[0079] The bearing (180) may be structured to be fitted into a bearing joint formed in a groove between the block upper body (151) and the block lower body (155). For example, the bearing (180) may be a ball bearing including an inner rotor and an outer rotor. A plurality of rotors having a ball or roller shape may be rotatably inserted between the inner rotor and the outer rotor. Here, the inner rotor may be fixedly coupled to the outer surface of the moving block (150) and may be rotated. The outer rotor may be arranged on the outer side of the inner rotor and coupled to the inner upper end of the support block (630). That is, the inner rotor may be rotated independently of the outer rotor by the rotors having a plurality of ball or roller shapes. Through this, the moving block (150) may be rotated relative to the support block (630).

[0080]

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, a knob assembly (10, see FIGS. 1 and 2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a light guide (200). The light guide (200) may be positioned inside the knob assembly (10, see FIGS. 1 and 2). For example, the light guide (200) may be positioned along the vertical direction inside the knob assembly (10).

[0082] The light guide (200) may have a shape that extends in one direction. For example, the light guide (200) may have a shape that extends along the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction may mean extending upward from the bottom of the light guide (200) to the top.

[0083] The light guide (200) can be coupled to the knob sub-assembly (100). For example, the light guide (200) can be coupled within the moving block (150). The light guide (200) can be coupled along the length direction or the axial direction on the inside of the block upper body (151) and the block lower body (155) of the moving block (150).

[0084] The light guide (200) may have a cylindrical shape. The light guide (200) may include a guide body (210) having a cylindrical shape. The guide body (210) may have a shape that extends to one side. For example, the guide body (210) may have a shape that extends along the longitudinal direction. The guide body (210) may extend upward from the bottom and connect to the top.

[0085] A magnetic body (300) described later can be combined at the bottom of the guide body (210). The magnetic body (300) can be combined at the bottom of the guide body (210) by insert injection.

[0086] The light guide (200) may include a guide diffusion portion (220). The guide diffusion portion (220) may have a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0087] The guide diffusion portion (220) may have a shape that extends to one side from the upper end of the guide body (210). For example, the guide diffusion portion (220) may have a shape that extends along the length direction from the upper end of the guide body (210). The guide diffusion portion (220) may have a shape in which the diameter gradually increases as it goes upward. For example, the guide diffusion portion (220) may have a shape in which the inlet gradually expands as it goes from the bottom to the top. The inner diameter of the upper end of the guide diffusion portion (220) may be larger than the inner diameter of the lower end of the guide diffusion portion (220).

[0088] The light guide (200) may include a guide cavity (230).

[0089] The guide hollow portion (230) may include a guide diffusion hollow portion (232) formed in the guide diffusion portion (220) and open upwards, and a guide body hollow portion (231) formed in the guide body (210) and connected to the guide diffusion hollow portion (232).

[0090] The guide body hollow portion (231) may be formed with a predetermined diameter along the longitudinal direction along the central axis of the light guide (200). For example, the guide body hollow portion (231) may be formed along the interior of the guide body (210) by extending downward along the longitudinal direction from the inner lower end of the guide diffusion portion (220).

[0091] The guide diffusion hollow portion (232) can be formed along the inside of the guide diffusion portion (220) by extending upward along the length direction from the inner bottom of the guide diffusion portion (220).

[0092] The light guide (200) may include a guide protrusion (240). For example, the guide protrusion (240) may be formed along the outer surface of the light guide (200). For example, the guide protrusion (240) may be formed to a predetermined thickness along the outer surface of the guide body (210).

[0093] The light guide (200) may include a light incident surface (210b). The light incident surface (210b) may be formed on the guide body (210). For example, the light incident surface (210b) may refer to a bottom surface among the outer faces formed on the guide body (210). The light incident surface (210b) may face downward or face toward the outside.

[0094] For example, the light incident surface (210b) may form a ring shape. For example, the light incident surface (210b) may form a shape that surrounds the magnetic body (300). In other words, the boundary between the light incident surface (210b) and the magnetic body (300) may be located on the periphery of the magnetic body (300).

[0095] The light guide (200) may include a first inner total reflection surface (210i). The first inner total reflection surface (210i) may be formed on the guide body (210). The first inner total reflection surface (210i) may refer to the inner surface of the guide body (210) in which the guide hollow portion (230) is formed. For example, the first inner total reflection surface (210i) may be a cylindrical curved surface formed along the interior of the guide body (210) and the guide diffusion portion (220).

[0096] Light may be incident on the light incident surface (210b). At least a portion of the light incident on the light incident surface (210b) may propagate upward. For example, at least a portion of the light incident on the light incident surface (210b) may propagate toward the guide diffusion portion (220).

[0097] At least a portion of the light incident on the light incident surface (210b) can propagate inside the guide body (210). At least a portion of the light propagating inside the guide body (210) can reach the first inner total reflection surface (210i).

[0098] At least a portion of the light reaching the first inner total reflection surface (210i) may be totally reflected at the first inner total reflection surface (210i). At least a portion of the light totally reflected at the first inner total reflection surface (210i) may proceed within the guide body (210).

[0099] The light guide (200) may include a first outer total reflection surface (210u). The first outer total reflection surface (210u) may be formed on the guide body (210). The first outer total reflection surface (210u) may refer to the outer surface of the guide body (210) on which the guide hollow portion (230) is formed. For example, the first outer total reflection surface (210u) may be a cylindrical curved surface formed along the outer circumferential surface of the guide body (210).

[0100] At least a portion of the light traveling inside the guide body (210) can reach the first outer total reflection surface (210u). At least a portion of the light traveling on the first outer total reflection surface (210u) can be totally reflected by the first outer total reflection surface (210u). At least a portion of the light totally reflected by the first outer total reflection surface (210u) can travel inside the guide body (210).

[0101] The light guide (200) may include a second inner total reflection surface (220i). The second inner total reflection surface (220i) may be formed in the guide diffusion portion (220). The second inner total reflection surface (220i) may face the guide diffusion hollow portion (232) and form a funnel shape.

[0102] The second inner total reflection surface (220i) may refer to the inner surface of the guide diffusion portion (220) having a hollow cylindrical shape that gradually expands in an upward direction. The second inner total reflection surface (220i) may have a shape that is concave downward. For example, the second inner total reflection surface (220i) may be a curved surface having a side shape of a reverse truncated cone.

[0103] At least a portion of the light incident on the light incident surface (210b) can propagate within the guide diffusion section (220). At least a portion of the light propagating within the guide diffusion section (220) can reach the second inner total reflection surface (220i).

[0104] At least a portion of the light reaching the second inner total reflection surface (220i) may be totally reflected by the second inner total reflection surface (220i). At least a portion of the light totally reflected by the second inner total reflection surface (220i) may proceed within the guide diffusion portion (220). The light guide (200) may include a second outer total reflection surface (220u).

[0105] The second outer total reflection surface (220u) may be formed on the guide diffusion portion (220). The second outer total reflection surface (220u) may refer to the outer surface of the guide diffusion portion (220) having a hollow cylindrical shape that gradually expands upward. For example, the second outer total reflection surface (220u) may be a curved surface having a side shape of a reverse truncated cone.

[0106] At least a portion of the light traveling within the guide diffusion unit (220) can reach the second outer total reflection surface (220u). At least a portion of the light traveling within the second outer total reflection surface (220u) can be totally reflected by the second outer total reflection surface (220u). At least a portion of the light traveling within the guide diffusion unit (220) can be totally reflected by the second outer total reflection surface (220u).

[0107] The light guide (200) may include a side light-emitting surface (220s). The side light-emitting surface (220s) may be formed in the guide diffusion portion (220).

[0108] The side light-emitting surface (220s) can emit at least a portion of the light traveling inside the guide diffusion portion (220) to the outside of the light guide (200). The side light-emitting surface (220s) may refer to the upper side of the guide diffusion portion (220). For example, the side light-emitting surface (220s) may be in the shape of a ring having an inclined surface.

[0109] At least a portion of the light traveling inside the guide diffusion section (220) can reach the side light exit surface (220s). At least a portion of the light reaching the side light exit surface (220s) can be transmitted through the side light exit surface (220s). The side light exit surface (220s) can emit at least a portion of the light incident through the light incident surface (210b) to the outside of the light guide (200).

[0110] The light guide (200) may include an upper light-emitting surface (220t). The upper light-emitting surface (220t) may be formed on the guide diffusion portion (220). The upper light-emitting surface (220t) may refer to the upper surface of the guide diffusion portion (220). For example, the upper light-emitting surface (220t) may be in the shape of a ring having a flat horizontal surface.

[0111] At least a portion of the light traveling within the guide diffusion portion (220) can reach the upper light exit surface (220t). At least a portion of the light reaching the upper light exit surface (220t) can be transmitted through the upper light exit surface (220t). The upper light exit surface (220t) can emit at least a portion of the light incident through the light incident surface (210b) to the outside of the light guide (200).

[0112] At least a portion of the light incident on the light guide (200) through the light incident surface (210b) can be totally reflected through the first inner total reflection surface (210i) and the first outer total reflection surface (210u) and can proceed inside the guide body (210). At least a portion of the light proceeding inside the guide diffusion portion (220) can be totally reflected through the second inner total reflection surface (220i) and the second outer total reflection surface (220u) and then finally emitted outside the light guide (200) through the side light exit surface (220c) and the upper light exit surface (220t) and transmitted to the light ring (400).

[0113] The above light guide (200) may be formed of a material including PC (PolyCarbonate). PC (PolyCarbonate) has a refractive index of 1.58 among transparent plastics, which may have a high value compared to the refractive index of glass (1.50-1.52). The light guide (200) may enhance the total reflection effect by using a material including PC. That is, the light guide (200) having a high refractive index through the PC material may stably enable total reflection for a medium such as air having a relatively low refractive index.

[0114]

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 8, a knob assembly (10, see FIGS. 1 and 2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a magnetic body (300). The magnetic body (300) may be disposed inside the knob assembly (10, see FIGS. 1 and 2).

[0116] The magnetic body (300) may be placed below the light guide (200). For example, the magnetic body (300) may be placed at the lower end of the guide body (210). For example, the magnetic body (300) may be integrally joined to the lower end of the guide body (210) by an insert casting method.

[0117] The magnetic body (300) may have a cylindrical shape. The magnetic body (300) may have a shape that extends in one direction. For example, the magnetic body (300) may have a shape that extends along the longitudinal direction. The magnetic body (300) may have opposite polarities based on a cross-section passing through the central axis. For example, the magnetic body (300) may include a first pole (310) forming one side portion and a second pole (320) that is arranged symmetrically with respect to the first pole (310).

[0118] The magnetic body (300) may include a magnetic body bottom surface (300b). The magnetic body bottom surface (300b) may form the bottom surface of the magnetic body (300). The magnetic body bottom surface (300b) may face downward or face toward the bottom.

[0119] The magnetic body (300) may include a magnetic body upper surface (300t). The magnetic body upper surface (300t) may form the upper surface of the magnetic body (300).

[0120] The magnetic body (300) may include a magnetic body side surface (300s). The magnetic body side surface (300s) may form a side surface of the magnetic body (300). The magnetic body side surface (300s) may be connected to the magnetic body upper surface (300t). For example, the magnetic body side surface (300s) may extend downward from both ends of the magnetic body upper surface (300t).

[0121] The magnetic body (300) may include a magnetic body inclined surface (300i). The magnetic body inclined surface (300i) may form an inclined lower side surface of the magnetic body (300). The magnetic body inclined surface (300i) may be connected to the magnetic body side surface (300s). For example, the magnetic body inclined surface (300i) may extend downward from both ends of the magnetic body side surface (300s) and be connected to the magnetic body bottom surface (300b).

[0122] The magnetic body (300) can be stably coupled to the lower portion of the guide body (210) through a lower structure having a chamfer or beveled shape. For example, the magnetic body inclined surface (300i) of the magnetic body (300) can be arranged on the stepped lower structure of the guide body (210), thereby preventing the magnetic body (300) from being detached.

[0123] A knob assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a light ring (400). The light ring (400) may be disposed on the inside of the knob body (110). The light ring (400) may be fixed to or coupled to the knob ring (120).

[0124] For example, it may be a method in which a ring engaging projection (not shown) formed on a knob ring (120) is engaged with a ring engaging groove (not shown) formed on a light ring (400). For example, the ring engaging projection of the knob ring (120) may be in the shape of a hook formed on the inner surface of the knob ring (110). For example, in the process in which the light ring (400) is introduced downward and engaged with the knob ring (120), a ring engaging projection in the shape of a hook may be secured and engaged with the ring engaging groove formed on the light ring (400).

[0125] The light ring (400) may be shaped like a plate with an inner surface that is concave downwards. A fastening protrusion formed to protrude downward from the center of the lower surface of the knob cover (130) may be coupled to a hole formed through the center of the light ring (400).

[0126] The lower surface of the light ring (400) may be in contact with the side light-emitting surface (220s) and the upper light-emitting surface (220t) of the guide body (210). Light transmitted through the side light-emitting surface (220s) and the upper light-emitting surface (220t) of the guide body (210) passes through the interior of the light ring (400) and is ultimately emitted to the outside through the space between the knob cover (130) and the knob body (110).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 11, a knob assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a substrate assembly (500). The substrate assembly (500) may be positioned below the light guide (200). The substrate assembly (500) may be fixed to or coupled to a housing (600) described below.

[0128] The substrate assembly (500) may include a substrate (501). Electronic components for driving the knob assembly (10) may be connected or coupled to the substrate (501). For example, the electronic components for driving the knob assembly (10) may be connected to the substrate (501) through soldering.

[0129] For example, the electronic component for driving the knob assembly (10) may include a Hall sensor (510). For example, the substrate assembly (500) may include a Hall sensor (510). The Hall sensor (510) may be connected or coupled to the substrate (501).

[0130] Meanwhile, there may be multiple Hall sensors (510). For example, there may be a pair of Hall sensors (510). For example, a pair of Hall sensors (510) may be symmetrically arranged with a substrate (501) interposed therebetween. That is, one of the pair of Hall sensors (510) may be arranged on the upper surface of the substrate (501), and the other of the pair of Hall sensors (510) may be arranged on the lower surface of the substrate (501).

[0131] The Hall sensor (510) can be placed below the magnet (300) coupled to the guide body (210). The magnet (300), which rotates according to the rotation of the guide body (210), directly transmits a change in magnetic force through the Hall sensor (510). That is, through the rotation structure of the magnet (300) placed above the Hall sensor (510), the Hall sensor (510) can easily determine a change in polarity of the magnet (300).

[0132]

[0133] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 12, the magnetic body (300) may have a ring shape. The ring-shaped magnetic body (300) may be arranged at the lower end of the guide body (210). The magnetic body (300) may have polarities opposite to the center of the ring. For example, the magnetic body (300) may include a first pole (310) forming one side of the ring and a second pole (320) extending from the first pole (310) and arranged symmetrically.

[0134] For example, the magnetic body (300) can be integrally joined to the lower edge of the guide body (210) by insert casting. Here, the central portion of the lower surface of the guide body (210) corresponds to the area surrounded by the magnetic body (300), and can form a light incident surface (210b).

[0135] The light guide (200) may include a first inner lower total reflection surface (210iw). The first inner lower total reflection surface (210i) may include a first inner lower total reflection surface (210iw). The first inner lower total reflection surface (210iw) may form a lower portion of the first inner total reflection surface (210i).

[0136] The first inner lower total reflection surface (210iw) may have a concave shape. For example, the lower end of the first inner lower total reflection surface (210iw) may have a sharp tip. For example, the first inner lower total reflection surface (210iw) may have the shape of an inverse cone.

[0137] At least a portion of the light traveling inside the guide body (210) can reach the first inner lower total reflection surface (210iw). At least a portion of the light traveling on the first inner lower total reflection surface (210iw) can be totally reflected by the first inner lower total reflection surface (210iw). At least a portion of the light totally reflected by the first inner lower total reflection surface (210iw) can travel inside the guide body (210).

[0138] The light guide (200) may include a first inner upper total reflection surface (210iu). The first inner total reflection surface (210i) may include a first inner upper total reflection surface (210iu). The first inner upper total reflection surface (210iu) may form an upper portion of the first inner total reflection surface (210i). The first inner upper total reflection surface (210iu) may extend upward from an upper portion of the first inner lower total reflection surface (210iw). For example, the first inner upper total reflection surface (210iu) may have a cylindrical shape.

[0139] At least a portion of the light traveling inside the guide body (210) can reach the first inner upper total reflection surface (210iu). At least a portion of the light traveling on the first inner upper total reflection surface (210iu) can be totally reflected at the first inner upper total reflection surface (210iu). At least a portion of the light totally reflected at the first inner upper total reflection surface (210iu) can travel inside the guide body (210).

[0140] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, a plurality of Hall sensors (510) may be spaced apart from each other around a light source (520). For example, a plurality of Hall sensors (510) may be arranged circumferentially around the light source (520). For example, a pair of Hall sensors (510) may be arranged on the same circumference, but may be arranged at points facing in different directions from the light source (520).

[0141] For example, one of the pair of Hall sensors (510) may be positioned at a point facing forward or backward from the light source (520), and the other of the pair of Hall sensors (510) may be positioned at a point facing left or right from the light source (520). The plurality of Hall sensors (510) may be positioned below the magnet (300) coupled to the guide body (210). For example, when the knob assembly (10) is driven, the plurality of Hall sensors (510) may perform continuous sensing of the first pole (310). This may increase the polarity sensitivity of the magnet (300).

[0142] Meanwhile, the light source (520) may be placed below the guide body (210). For example, the light source (520) may face or be directed toward the lower surface of the guide body (210). For example, the light source (520) may be placed below the center of the lower surface of the guide body (210). For example, the light source (520) may face or be directed toward the light incident surface (210b).

[0143]

[0144] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a knob assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing (600).

[0145] The housing (600) may include an upper housing (610). The upper housing (610) may have a hollow shape. For example, the upper housing (610) may have a hollow cylindrical shape with an open top and a bottom. The upper housing (610) may house a portion of the knob sub-assembly (100) therein. For example, the knob body (110) and the knob skirt (140) may be exposed to the upper side of the upper housing (610), while other components of the knob sub-assembly (100) may be housed inside the upper housing (610).

[0146] The housing (600) may include a bottom housing (620). The bottom housing (620) is positioned at the lower end of the knob assembly (10) and may be coupled to the open lower portion of the upper housing (610). The bottom housing (620) may support the substrate assembly (500). That is, the substrate assembly (500) may be mounted on the upper surface of the bottom housing (620).

[0147] The housing (600) may include a support block (630). The support block (630) may accommodate a block lower body (155) forming a moving block (150). The support block (630) may be accommodated within the upper housing (610) and supported by the bottom housing (620) and / or the substrate assembly (500).

[0148] The knob sub-assembly (100) can be rotatably coupled to the support block (630). The block lower body (155) forming the moving block (150) can be rotatably accommodated in the support block (630). A bearing (180) can be placed between the moving block (150) forming the knob sub-assembly (100) and the support block (630).

[0149] For example, the outer rotor of the bearing (180) may be coupled to the inner upper portion of the support block (630), while the inner rotor of the bearing (180) may be coupled to the block lower body (155) of the moving block (150). Through this, the moving block (150) may be rotatably driven with respect to the support block (630). The knob sub-assembly (100) including the moving block (150) may be rotatably coupled with respect to the support block (630).

[0150] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit and essential characteristics thereof. The above detailed description should not be construed in any way as limiting but rather as illustrative. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the scope of equivalents of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. Hollow-shaped knob sub-assembly; A light guide, at least a portion of which is accommodated in the knob sub-assembly and which forms a guide hollow portion extending downwardly and recessed in the upper surface; A magnetic body coupled to the lower part of the above light guide; A substrate assembly positioned below the light guide; The above substrate assembly is, A Hall sensor positioned below the magnetic body and facing the magnetic body; and A light source positioned below the light guide and facing the light guide, Knob assembly.

2. In paragraph 1, The above light source is, Including a plurality of light sources arranged in a circumferential direction centered on the above Hall sensor, Knob assembly.

3. In paragraph 1, The above magnetic body is, Insert-coupled to the above light guide, Knob assembly.

4. In paragraph 1, The positive and negative poles of the above magnetic body are, horizontally arranged, Knob assembly.

5. In paragraph 1, The above light guide, A guide body in which the above magnetic body is combined and extends upward from the bottom to the top; and Including a guide diffusion portion extending upward from the top of the above guide body, The above guide hollow part is, Including a guide diffusion hollow portion formed in the above guide diffusion portion and open upwards, Knob assembly.

6. In paragraph 5, The above guide diffusion part is, Including a second inner total reflection surface forming a funnel shape while facing the above guide diffusion cavity, Knob assembly.

7. In paragraph 6, further comprising a light ring accommodated in the knob sub-assembly and positioned in contact with the upper portion of the guide diffusion portion; Knob assembly.

8. In paragraph 7, The above guide diffusion part is, The second inner total reflection surface; A second outer total reflection surface constituting the outer surface of the above guide diffusion portion; and Including a light-emitting surface connecting the upper end of the second inner total reflection surface and the upper end of the second outer total reflection surface, The above light ring is in contact with the light emitting surface, Knob assembly.

9. In paragraph 5, The above guide hollow part is, Further comprising a guide body hollow portion formed in the above guide body and connected to the guide diffusion hollow portion, Knob assembly.

10. In paragraph 6, The above magnetic body has a ring shape, Knob assembly.

11. In paragraph 10, The above Hall sensor, It comprises a plurality of Hall sensors arranged in a circumferential direction below the magnetic body, The above light source is surrounded by the plurality of Hall sensors, Knob assembly.

12. In paragraph 1, The above light guide, Formed from a material containing PC (PolyCarbonate), Knob assembly.

13. In paragraph 1, The above knob sub-assembly, A knob body having a hollow shape that can be gripped; A knob cover positioned on the open upper inner side of the above knob body; A knob skirt disposed on the lower part of the knob body and supporting the lower part of the knob body; and Including a moving block positioned facing the knob body based on the above knob skirt, Knob assembly.

14. In paragraph 13, Further comprising a housing for accommodating the above knob sub-assembly; The above housing, Upper housing having a hollow shape; A bottom housing coupled to the open lower portion of the upper housing; and A support block supported by the bottom housing is included, and the knob sub-assembly is rotatably coupled to the support block. Knob assembly.

Images