Axial Switch Cover Structure for Tactile Low-Force Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical switches with axial control suffer from reliability issues, high actuation force, lack of tactile feedback, and difficulty in detection in poor lighting conditions.
Innovation Solution
An electrical switch design featuring a button that moves axially with a covering device providing tactile feedback and a protruding actuation portion for easy detection, coupled with a return mechanism for ergonomic operation and improved visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a compression switching mechanism is used, then the switching function is achieved, but the actuation force is too high and reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional compression switching mechanism with a magnetic field-based switching mechanism. The movable anchor is actuated by magnetic attraction force generated by a coil, eliminating the need for mechanical compression springs and reducing the actuation force required by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the user's button press and the contact switching. The magnetic field transmits the actuation force efficiently, reducing mechanical losses and improving reliability compared to direct mechanical compression mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If the button is substantially flat, then the structure is simple, but tactile feedback is poor and detection in poor lighting conditions is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the flat button surface with a curved or domed button surface. This curvature provides tactile feedback when pressed and improves visibility by reflecting light differently, making the button more detectable in poor lighting conditions without significantly complicating the structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates light-reflecting or illuminated elements on the button surface that change appearance or emit light in response to pressing or ambient light conditions, enhancing detectability without adding complex mechanical structures.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances user reliability and ease of operation by reducing actuation force, providing tactile feedback, and ensuring visibility in poor lighting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a return mechanism, in this case elastic in nature, suitable for returning the button from the operating position to the rest position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
An electrical switch with axial control including: a main body (2), a button (3), a covering device (4) comprising a body (5) and a coupling system (6). Said body (5) comprises a lower surface (50) and a framework (51) extending along a perimeter (P) of said lower surface (50) towards the button (3). The body (5) of the covering device (4) also comprises an actuation portion (41) and a support portion (42) which are opposite to each other. The support portion (42) comprises abutment elements (43) suitable for abutting the main body (2) of the switch (1) when a pressure is applied to the support portion (42), so that said pressure does not cause the button (3) to move into the operating position. The actuation portion (41) protrudes to a greater extent than the support portion (42). The button (3) can be moved from the rest position to the operating position by means of a pressure applied to the actuation portion (41).