Button Film Support Structure to Prevent Recess-Edge Buckling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional functional components with convexly curved elastic films used in applications like the automotive sector face issues with buckling or snapping off at the edges of recesses, leading to permanent crease lines and indentations due to the added plastic layer, which is undesirable for design and haptic reasons.
Innovation Solution
A functional component design featuring a hard support component with a recess covered by a film and a mechanically actuatable switching element, where an annular or hollow cylindrical body made of a flexible material is situated along the inner edge of the recess to elastically support the film, preventing buckling and indentations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the film is over-molded or back molded with a plastic material to achieve a flat surface, then the surface appearance is improved, but the film becomes less elastic and tends to buckle or snap off at the edges of the recess
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a plastic layer only in specific areas where surface flatness is needed, while leaving other areas of the film elastic and flexible. This localized application allows the film to maintain both a flat appearance where required and sufficient elasticity to prevent buckling at the recess edges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structure combining a plastic layer with the elastic film substrate. The plastic portion provides the desired flat surface appearance, while the underlying elastic film maintains flexibility and prevents buckling, achieving both surface quality and structural reliability.
2Ease of operation
If pressure is exerted on the film to actuate the switching element, then the switching function is achieved, but the film may buckle or create permanent crease lines and indentations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the mechanical parameters of the film by selectively applying plastic material, changing its elasticity and stiffness characteristics. This allows the film to withstand actuation pressure without buckling or creating permanent deformations, while still maintaining the ability to return to its original flat position after switching.
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
The flexible body effectively supports the film at the edge of the recess, preventing buckling and indentations, thus maintaining a smooth and desirable surface appearance even under pressure, enhancing the design and haptic experience.
Implementation Method 1
an annular or hollow cylindrical body made of a flexible material is situated along the inner edge of the recess to elastically support the film
Data Source
AI summary
A functional component having a button function includes a support component, a film, and an electrical switching element. The support component has a recess. The film covers the recess. The electrical switching element is situated below the recess and is actuatable by pressure being exerted on the film in the area above the recess. A ring-shaped or hollow cylindrical body is situated along an inner edge surface of the recess and is in contact with the film.