Electronic Key Press Mechanism With Compact Solenoid Return
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle-mounted apparatuses that mechanically press an electronic key's press button using an actuator are elongated due to the need for a return spring and the space it occupies, increasing the device's size in the operation direction.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle-mounted apparatus with an intermediate member that transmits the actuator's force to the electronic key's press button, eliminating the need for a return spring, thereby reducing the device's length in the operation direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a return spring is provided outside the solenoid to return the movable iron core to the original position, then the solenoid can operate reliably, but the total length of the actuator in the operation direction becomes long
Solution Approach 1:
The return spring is installed inside the solenoid coil rather than outside, nesting the return spring within the existing solenoid structure. This eliminates the need for additional external space while maintaining the return function, thereby reducing the total length of the actuator in the operation direction
Solution Approach 2:
The return spring is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the operation direction of the movable iron core, utilizing the radial dimension of the solenoid instead of extending the axial dimension. This dimensional reorganization allows the return mechanism to coexist with the operating mechanism without increasing the operational stroke length
2Reliability
If the elastic member is installed to the tip end of the coupling tool to absorb impact force, then the press button is protected from damage, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cushioning function is merged with the return spring already present in the solenoid structure. The return spring serves dual purposes: returning the movable iron core to its original position and cushioning the impact force when pressing the button. This eliminates the need for a separate cushioning component, thereby simplifying the overall device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The return spring is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the restoring force for the solenoid operation and acts as a cushioning element to absorb impact forces. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed in the press mechanism
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 apparatus achieves a shorter operational length by utilizing an intermediate member to bias the actuator's movable portion, allowing for a more compact design without a return spring.
Implementation Method 1
The solenoid is a mechanism that operates the movable iron core provided in a movable portion by an electromagnetic force
Implementation Method 2
The intermediate member is configured to abut against the movable portion and to apply a biasing force for biasing the movable portion in a direction opposite to the one direction
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle-mounted apparatus includes an accommodation portion that is configured to accommodate an electronic key of a vehicle, an actuator that is configured to perform a press operation to the electronic key accommodated in the accommodation portion by moving a movable portion in one direction, and an intermediate member that is disposed between the electronic key accommodated in the accommodation portion and the actuator and that is configured to transmit a force of the press operation to a press button of the electronic key. The intermediate member is configured to abut against the movable portion and to apply a biasing force for biasing the movable portion in a direction opposite to the one direction.