Dual Rotation Switch Disk with U-Shaped Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary switches in vehicles lack efficient mechanisms for simultaneous rotational and linear motion control, limiting their functionality and precision in manual operation.
Innovation Solution
A switch assembly featuring a rotatable disk with a U-shaped spring that enables both rotational and linear motion, utilizing a linear encoder assembly and a rotary encoder assembly to communicate with control devices, allowing for precise signal generation through both rotational and linear movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional rotary switch is used, then the structure is simple, but it lacks simultaneous rotational and linear motion control capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines rotational motion and linear motion control into a single integrated switch mechanism. The disk can rotate about its axis while simultaneously moving linearly along the axis, allowing both types of motion control to be achieved through one unified structure rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch mechanism transitions from a static rotary switch to a dynamic system where the disk can perform both rotational and linear movements. The spring-loaded design allows the disk to move dynamically in response to applied forces, enabling versatile motion control capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If a rotary switch without linear motion capability is used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision for both rotational and linear positions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The encoder assembly serves multiple functions: it detects both rotational position and linear position of the disk. By integrating both detection capabilities into a single assembly, the system achieves high measurement precision for both types of motion without requiring separate detection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The encoder assembly acts as an intermediary between the mechanical disk movement and the control system. It converts both rotational and linear positions into precise electrical signals that can be processed by the control device, enabling accurate position feedback.
3Ease of operation
If a switch assembly with both linear and rotary encoder assemblies is implemented, then the control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the linear encoder assembly and rotary encoder assembly into a single integrated structure. Both encoder functions are combined in one assembly that works together with the disk, reducing the overall complexity compared to having completely separate detection systems.
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 provides enhanced control and precision in vehicle systems by enabling proportional signals from both rotational and linear movements, improving the overall operational efficiency of the switch assembly.
Implementation Method 1
A U-shaped spring is fixed to the disk. Rotation of the disk in the first circumferential direction moves the disk in a first axial direction, and rotation of the disk in the second circumferential direction moves the disk in the first axial direction.
Data Source
AI summary
A switch assembly according to an example of this disclosure includes a disk rotatable about a disk axis in a first circumferential direction and a second circumferential direction opposite the first circumferential direction. A U-shaped spring is fixed to the disk. Rotation of the disk in the first circumferential direction moves the disk in a first axial direction, and rotation of the disk in the second circumferential direction moves the disk in the first axial direction.