Dial Operating Mechanism Layout for Compact Axial Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary encoders and combined operation electric components face challenges in efficiently arranging components in a compact axial direction, leading to space constraints and reduced operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A dial and operating mechanism that includes a dial member with a shaft portion, a moving mechanism, and electronic sensors disposed in directions away from the shaft end, utilizing biasing members and relay portions to optimize component arrangement, allowing for space-saving and improved efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the electronic member is disposed on the first direction side with respect to the shaft portion and the first sensor is disposed in a direction away from the dial member, then the axial length is reduced and space is saved, but the component arrangement becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the electronic member and sensors from a conventional axial arrangement to a radial/directional arrangement around the shaft portion. Specifically, the electronic member is disposed on the first direction side with respect to the shaft portion, and the first sensor is positioned in a direction away from the dial member, utilizing three-dimensional space more efficiently to reduce axial length while maintaining functional integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the dial member is made rotatable with a shaft portion and moving mechanism is added, then operational functionality is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the moving mechanism directly with the shaft portion, allowing the dial member to rotate about the shaft while the moving mechanism provides linear movement. This merging of rotational and linear movement capabilities into a unified structure achieves enhanced operational functionality without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The shaft portion serves multiple functions: it acts as the rotational axis for the dial member, supports the electronic member, and interfaces with the moving mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby improving operational versatility while controlling device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A dial includes: a rotatable dial member having a shaft portion; a moving mechanism that moves the dial member in a first direction; and an electronic member having a first sensor that detects rotation of the dial member and a second sensor that detects a position of the dial member moved by the moving mechanism. The electronic member includes: a first mounting portion on which the first sensor is mounted; a second mounting portion on which the second sensor is mounted; and a first relay portion that connects the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion.