Dual-Action Tactile Switch Using Single Deformable Dome
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing double-action or double-pressure switches are bulky and difficult to precisely adjust, with complex control of actuating forces, and have limited service life due to the use of multiple domes or contact components, which complicates industrial realization and user feedback.
Innovation Solution
A compact double-action tactile-effect electrical switch design featuring an insulative support with three fixed contacts and an elastically deformable triggering member that transitions from a high rest position to a low switching position, using a spring return member and a spherical dome to establish two successive electrical switchpaths with distinct tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple domes or contact components are used to achieve double-action switching, then the switching functionality is improved, but the device becomes bulky and complex to adjust
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple switching functions into a single dome structure. The dome integrates both the first contact component (with first contact) and the second contact component (with second contact), allowing double-action switching functionality to be achieved through one unified component rather than multiple separate domes, thereby reducing structural complexity and adjustment difficulty
Solution Approach 2:
The single dome structure serves multiple functions: it provides both the first switching action (through the first contact component) and the second switching action (through the second contact component). This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each switching action, simplifying the overall device structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If two superposed domes are used to make two electrical switchpaths, then the switching paths are established, but the overall size increases along the actuating axis
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of stacking domes vertically along the actuating axis (one dimension), the patent arranges the first and second contact components radially around the central axis of the single dome (another dimension). This radial arrangement allows multiple switching paths to be achieved without increasing the vertical height, effectively using the radial space to reduce the overall size along the actuating axis
3Length of moving object
If a single dome is used for double deformation, then the size is reduced, but the service life and industrial realization become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The single dome is segmented into distinct functional zones: the first contact component with its contact element, the second contact component with its contact element, and the central axis region. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining the compact single-dome structure, improving reliability through functional differentiation
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the dome are given different properties: the first contact component has specific electrical conductivity and mechanical properties for the first switching action, while the second contact component has different properties optimized for the second switching action. This local differentiation of properties within the single dome structure enables reliable double-action functionality without compromising service life
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 design achieves precise control of actuating forces and provides a compact, durable solution with improved service life and intuitive tactile feedback, enhancing user interaction while minimizing bulkiness along the actuating axis.
Implementation Method 1
a spring return member that is disposed vertically between the support and the triggering member and which is compressible globally vertically to enable the triggering member to move from its initial high position to its final low position
Implementation Method 2
a triggering member, which is elastically deformable from a stable rest state by the action of an actuating member
Data Source
AI summary
A switch including a triggering member that is adapted to come to bear on two peripheral fixed contacts to make a first switchpath and that is deformable to make an electrical connection between these two fixed contacts and a central fixed contact to make a second switchpath consecutively to making the first switchpath. The triggering member may occupy an initial high rest position and a final low switching position toward which it is moved by an actuating member against a return force exerted by a spring that is disposed between the support for the contacts and the triggering member.