Control Module Grounding via Conductive Element for Static Release

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional digital camera control modules face limitations in appearance design due to electrostatic issues, which restrict surface treatments and result in monotonous designs, as they require uniform treatments to prevent static electricity damage.

Innovation Solution

A control module with a conductive element and return component that allows the control panel to be grounded during rotation, enabling static electricity release and allowing for both conductive and non-conductive surface treatments, thereby enhancing design flexibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If the control panel is treated by electroplating process to form metal surface, then the quality feeling is improved, but static electricity accumulates and damages the digital camera

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvequality feelingVSAvoidstatic electricity damage

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A non-conductive coating layer is introduced as an intermediary between the electroplated metal surface and the user's hand. This coating layer prevents direct contact and thus prevents static electricity generation, while the underlying metal layer continues to provide the desired quality feeling. The patent applies a non-conductive paint or coating on the electroplated surface to eliminate electrostatic issues while preserving aesthetic and tactile qualities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If the control panel is treated by painting process to prevent static electricity, then static electricity damage is prevented, but the variety of colors is reduced and design becomes monotonous

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestatic electricity damageVSAvoidappearance design variety

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The control panel is divided into different surface treatment zones: some portions receive electroplating for metallic quality feeling and aesthetic appeal, while other portions receive non-conductive coating for electrostatic protection. This local differentiation allows different regions to serve different functions - aesthetic versus protective - thereby maintaining design variety while preventing static electricity damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The control panel employs a composite structure combining conductive electroplated metal layer and non-conductive coating layer. This composite material approach allows simultaneous achievement of metallic aesthetics from the electroplating and electrostatic protection from the non-conductive coating, enabling diverse appearance designs without compromising safety.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Object-affected harmful factors

If the control panel and frame are treated by the same surface treatment, then electrostatic issue is prevented, but the appearance design is restricted and becomes monotonous

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrostatic issueVSAvoidappearance design

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Different surface treatments are applied to different components of the control module. The frame may receive one type of treatment while the control panel receives another, allowing each component to be optimized for its specific function and aesthetic requirements. This local differentiation enables diverse appearance designs while maintaining electrostatic protection through strategic placement of non-conductive elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 prevents static electricity accumulation, allowing for varied and aesthetically enhanced appearance designs by enabling the use of both electroplating and painting processes simultaneously on the control panel.

Implementation Method 1

The return component is electrically contacted with the conductive port. The conductive element is electrically contacted with the first end or the second end

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical Conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

when the user rotates the control panel, the control panel can be grounded by way of the electrical contact between the return component and the conductive element. Therefore, the static electricity on the control panel can be released anytime

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrostatic Discharge: Electrostatic Discharge

Data Source

PatentUS8921725B2Control module and electronic device having the same

Publication Date: 2014.12.30 ABILITY ENTERPRISE CO LTD

AI summary

A control module and an electronic device having the same are disclosed. The control module includes a control panel, a return component, and a conductive element. The control panel includes a conductive port. The return component is disposed on the control panel. The return component includes a first end and a second end, and the return component is electrically contacted with the conductive port. The conductive element includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall. The conductive element is electrically contacted with the first end or the second end.