Compressible Push-Button Member for Compact Switch Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The size constraints of portable electronic devices make it challenging to incorporate push-buttons while maintaining the device's portability, as they require extra space for button movement and spring return mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a push-button featuring a compressible member that compresses in a plane offset from the switch actuation plane, reducing the necessary space by eliminating the need for additional clearance and restoration materials like springs or foam.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional push-button with spring return mechanism is used, then the button can be reliably actuated and returned to original position, but the device size increases due to extra space requirements for button movement and spring mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the spring return mechanism from the push-button assembly. Instead of using a separate spring component to return the button to its original position, the design uses the compressible nature of the button head itself (made from elastomeric material) to provide the return force, thereby removing the need for additional space-consuming spring components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter of the push-button head from rigid to elastomeric/compressible material. This parameter change allows the button to compress and return elastically without requiring a mechanical spring, thus reducing the space needed for the return mechanism while maintaining reliable actuation.
2Ease of operation
If a push-button with sufficient clearance for button movement is provided, then smooth operation is achieved, but the space required by the push-button increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible elastomeric button head that can compress and deform elastically. This flexible material allows the button to operate smoothly with minimal clearance requirements, as the material itself deforms to accommodate the actuation motion rather than requiring rigid mechanical clearance space.
3Reliability
If restoration materials like springs or foam are added to the push-button, then the button return function is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the button body and the return mechanism into a single integrated component. The elastomeric button head itself serves both as the actuator and the spring mechanism, eliminating the need for separate restoration materials like springs or foam. This consolidation reduces component complexity while maintaining the return function.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric button head is self-sufficient in providing both the actuation interface and the return force. The material's inherent elastic properties allow it to compress during actuation and automatically return to its original shape without requiring external restoration materials, making the system self-service and reducing overall complexity.
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
This design allows for reliable switch actuation with even force application, reduces space requirements, and provides better tactile feedback without the need for additional materials, enhancing the usability and compactness of portable devices.
Implementation Method 1
a compressible member that compresses in a compression plane parallel with and offset from the switch actuation plane
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including a switch and a push-button coupled to the switch. The push-button can include a push-button head including a push-button face and a contact portion opposite from the push-button face. An applied force can move the push-button head in an actuation direction in a switch actuation plane relative to the switch to actuate the switch. The contact portion can actuate the switch when the applied force moves the push-button head in the actuation direction. The push-button can also include a compressible member that compresses in a compression plane parallel with and offset from the switch actuation plane. The compressible member can include a first end coupled to the push-button head and a second end opposite from the first end. The second end can be coupled to a fixed point relative to the switch.