Combined Switch Unit with Segmented Directional and Rotary Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch devices lack stability and precision in selecting various operation modes, particularly in directional and rotary movements, which affects the smooth and accurate manipulation of apparatuses like vehicles and multimedia devices.
Innovation Solution
A combined switch device with a housing, printed circuit board, and a switch unit that includes a rotatable switch knob supported by a directional and elastic support system, allowing for stable directional and rotary movements, and a haptic actuator for tactile feedback, along with a light display unit for visual feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple push switch type or basic rotary switch is used, then the device structure is simple, but the stability and precision in selecting operation modes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The switch device is segmented into multiple independent functional components: a directional switch for detecting push directions, a rotary switch for detecting rotation, and a button switch for push operations. Each component independently detects a specific type of input, allowing precise identification of operation modes without requiring a complex monolithic structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch body integrates multiple switch types (directional, rotary, and button switches) into a single unified structure that can detect various operation modes including push direction, rotation direction, and push depth. This multi-functional design enables one device to perform what previously required multiple separate switches, improving precision without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Ease of operation
If a magnetic attraction force structure is employed to enable haptic perception, then the user can make haptic perception, but the smoothness and stability in directional movement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The switch knob is designed to rotate freely about its axis while the entire switch body can tilt in directional directions. This dynamic structure allows smooth movement in multiple degrees of freedom, with magnetic attraction forces providing haptic feedback during rotation without constraining the overall directional mobility of the switch body.
Solution Approach 2:
Magnetic attraction forces are used as an intermediary mechanism to provide haptic perception during rotary operation without creating mechanical friction or resistance that would hinder smooth directional movement. The magnetic field acts as a non-contact mediator that gives tactile feedback while allowing free movement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switch types are integrated in a single device, then various operation modes can be selected, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The directional switch, rotary switch, and button switch are merged into a single integrated switch body that shares common structural elements such as the switch knob, housing, and mounting mechanism. This combining approach allows multiple operation modes to be detected within one unified device rather than requiring separate switches for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch body is designed as a universal platform that can detect multiple types of inputs: push direction through the directional switch, rotation through the rotary switch, and push depth through the button switch. This multi-functional design enables a single device to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate switches, managing complexity through functional integration.
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
Enables precise detection of switch operations, smooth manipulation, and haptic perception of operating states, enhancing user interaction with apparatuses by providing stable directional and rotary movements and visual feedback.
Implementation Method 1
a switch driving body-elastic support configured to elastically support the movement of the switch knob in the direction of the rotating axis
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a combined switch unit and a combined switch module having the same, comprising: a housing; a printed circuit board disposed in the housing; and a switch unit. The switch unit comprises: a switch knob which is rotatably disposed on the housing in such a fashion as to be exposed at one end thereof to the housing; a switch driving body which is disposed inside the housing, and is connected with the switch knob; a switch supporting unit which supports the switch driving body with respect to the housing; and switches including directional switches which are disposed on the switch driving body and the printed circuit board and are driven by the motion performed on a plane that is vertical to a rotating axis of the switch knob, and a rotary switch which is driven by the central rotation of the rotating axis of the switch knob. The switch supporting unit comprises: a switch driving body directional supporting unit which supports the switch driving body to enable the switch knob to be actuated on the plane that is vertical to the rotating axis; and a switch driving body elastic supporting unit which elastically supports the actuation of the switch knob in the direction of the rotating axis.