Elastomer-Web Slide Switch Assembly for Backlash-Free Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slide switches suffer from assembly quality issues that affect user experience and increase manufacturing costs due to loose translational motion and backlash, which are not adequately addressed by current technologies.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an elastomer web in the motion path of a mechanical slider to bias the slider against a switch nub, eliminating loose translational motion and backlash, thereby improving user perception and allowing for larger assembly tolerances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional rigid components are used in slide switch assembly, then manufacturing precision requirements are high, but assembly tolerance is limited and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from rigid to elastomeric for the web component, allowing it to deform elastically during assembly. This elastic deformation capability enables the system to accommodate larger assembly tolerances without requiring high manufacturing precision, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining functional performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite structure combining rigid components (slider, switch nub) with an elastomeric web. This composite material approach allows the elastomeric portion to absorb dimensional variations and tolerance deviations, enabling larger assembly tolerances without compromising the overall structural integrity or electrical switching function
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid mechanical connections are used, then structural stability is good, but backlash and loose motion occur affecting user experience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional rigid mechanical connections with an elastomeric web that acts as a flexible element. This flexible web maintains structural stability through its elastic properties while eliminating backlash and loose motion by continuously contacting and biasing the slider against the switch nub, thereby improving ease of operation and user experience
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric web serves as an intermediary element between the rigid slider and switch nub components. It mediates the mechanical interaction by providing continuous elastic contact that eliminates gaps and backlash, ensuring stable structural connection while preventing loose motion that would degrade user experience
3Manufacturing precision
If tight assembly tolerances are enforced, then quality is improved, but manufacturing yield decreases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By changing the material parameter to elastomeric for the web, the system can accommodate larger dimensional variations in assembled parts. This reduces the stringency of assembly tolerance requirements, thereby improving manufacturing yield without sacrificing assembly quality, as the elastomeric material compensates for dimensional variations through elastic deformation
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 elastomer web enhances user experience by reducing perceived backlash and vibration, increases assembly tolerance, and lowers manufacturing costs by improving yield and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The elastomer web is disposed in a motion path of a mechanical slider and biases the slider to contact a switch nub
Implementation Method 2
The elastomer web enhances user experience by reducing perceived backlash and vibration
Data Source
AI summary
A slide switch with an elastomer web for eliminating slide backlash and rattle. The elastomer web is disposed in the motion path of a mechanical slider and biases the slider to contact a switch nub. The biased slider eliminates a loose translational motion of the mechanical slider and therefore a user's perception of loose motion or backlash when actuating the switch. The elastomer web improves the user's perception of the mechanical slider's quality. Additionally, the elastomer web allows for larger assembly tolerances between the mechanical slider and the switch nub. An increased assembly tolerance improves yield for mechanical parts and reduces the cost of manufacturing.