Compact Pushbutton Switch Resisting Contamination Jamming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern appliances' lid or door switches are prone to jamming due to contamination accumulation on the pushbutton operator, which can lead to unintended operation when the door is open, as existing solutions either allow contaminants to accumulate or require additional water barriers that increase complexity.
Innovation Solution
A compact pushbutton switch design where the switch mechanism is supported within a post, shielding it from contaminants and using a conical spring for reduced depth, with contacts positioned to resist water ingress and prevent jamming by guiding the pushbutton without a surrounding sleeve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a close-fit outer sleeve is used to support the pushbutton operator, then mechanical support and guidance are provided, but contaminants accumulate on the outer surface causing jamming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the outer sleeve that caused contamination accumulation and replaces it with an inner post support system. The pushbutton operator is supported internally by a post that extends into the pushbutton, eliminating the external sleeve that trapped contaminants while maintaining mechanical support and guidance functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is segmented into an inner post that extends into the pushbutton operator, separating the support function from the outer sleeve. This segmentation allows the pushbutton to be supported from within rather than from an enclosing outer structure, preventing contaminant trapping.
2Reliability
If offset contacts are used to protect from water, then water resistance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the contact protection function with the existing contact housing structure. The contacts are positioned within the contact housing that is integrated into the switch mechanism, eliminating the need for separate offset contacts or additional water barriers while maintaining water resistance through the housing design.
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 solution provides a water-resistant, compact switch that resists contamination and jamming, ensuring the appliance remains safe and functional by preventing operation when the door is open, while maintaining a reduced-depth form factor suitable for installation through appliance walls.
Implementation Method 1
using a conical spring for reduced depth
Implementation Method 2
The sleeve may be stationary with respect to the housing and therefore sealed to the housing
Data Source
AI summary
An appliance switch provides contacts protected within a housing that may fit coaxially within and behind a pushbutton of the switch. The pushbutton includes a rearwardly extending arm that actuates an operator extending from a rear edge of the switch as installed avoiding a water path into the contact assembly.