DPDT Tactile Switch Layout for Verified Circuit State
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tactile and snap switches lack positive verification of the electrical circuit state, making it difficult to ensure the circuit is open when the switch is not actuated and closed when actuated.
Innovation Solution
A double pole double throw (DPDT) switch design featuring a housing, input and output conductors, movable contacts, a bascule element, and an actuator mechanism that ensures electrical current flows through open or closed circuit paths based on the switch's actuated state, providing clear feedback through tactile and mechanical interactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional tactile or snap switch is used, then the switch provides tactile feedback to the user, but the switch lacks positive verification of the electrical circuit state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by providing visual indicators (LED lights or display elements) that show the actual electrical circuit state. The feedback mechanism includes a first indicator showing the state of the first circuit and a second indicator showing the state of the second circuit, allowing users to verify the circuit state independently of the switch position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the switch into independent control channels for two separate circuits. Each circuit has its own movable contact, fixed contacts, and visual indicator, allowing independent verification and control of each circuit's state without affecting the other.
2Ease of operation
If the switch provides tactile feedback through mechanical actuation, then the user can feel the switch position, but the user cannot be certain the electrical circuit state matches the physical position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent compensates for the loss of information by introducing visual feedback indicators that display the actual electrical circuit state. The first visual indicator corresponds to the first circuit and the second visual indicator corresponds to the second circuit, providing complete information about circuit states regardless of switch position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs color changes in visual indicators (such as LED lights or display elements) to represent different circuit states. Different colors indicate different circuit conditions, providing intuitive visual information that complements the tactile feedback from mechanical actuation.
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 DPDT switch provides definite verification of the electrical circuit state, ensuring reliable open or closed states with tactile feedback, enhancing user interface reliability and usability.
Implementation Method 1
a tactile dome disposed within the internal cavity and extending over the bascule element
Implementation Method 2
first and second movable input contacts connected to the first and second input contact terminals, respectively, extending through the internal cavity and terminating in respective first and second free ends disposed over the first and second closed circuit output contact terminals
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 2
AI summary
A double pole double throw switch including a housing 11 containing a tactile dome 13 disposed over movable input contacts 24, and an actuator 14 disposed over the tactile dome 13 and adapted to be engaged by a user. When the actuator is not engaged, the movable input contacts 24 engage fixed open circuit output contacts 46 within the housing, creating a path for electrical current to flow from the movable input contacts 24 to open circuit output conductors 20 extending out of the housing. When the actuator is engaged, the actuator presses on the tactile dome, causing the tactile dome to deflect, which in turn causes the movable input contacts 24 to move out of engagement with the fixed open circuit output contacts 46 and into engagement with closed circuit output contact terminals 40 within the housing, creating a path for electrical current to flow from the movable input contacts 24 to closed circuit output conductors 22 extending out of the housing.