Emblem-Integrated Trunk Switch Waterproof Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing trunk switch assemblies integrated with emblems lack a waterproof structure, leading to moisture infiltration and reduced operability, as they require precise center pressing for functionality, which complicates manufacturing and durability.

Innovation Solution

A trunk switch assembly with a waterproof design, featuring a micro switch, rubber pad, link mechanism, and return spring, allowing operation from any part of the emblem, combined with a decorative ring and drain holes for moisture discharge, ensuring consistent operation and durability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the emblem is attached to the trunk surface with adhesive or screw, then the emblem can be mounted on the rear of the car, but the attachment process becomes time-consuming and the emblem becomes separated from the trunk surface over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveemblem attachment durabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The emblem is merged with the trunk opening/closing device into a single integrated assembly. The emblem serves dual functions as both a decorative element and the actuating component for opening/closing the trunk, eliminating the need for separate attachment processes and reducing manufacturing time while improving reliability through integrated construction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of operation

If the micro switch is pressed only when the middle part of the emblem is pressed, then the switch can be operated, but the operability of the trunk is degraded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrunk operabilityVSAvoidpressing position accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The emblem is divided into multiple functional zones with different link portions (first link portion, second link portion, third link portion) that correspond to different pressing positions. Each zone is connected to the micro switch through different linkage mechanisms, allowing the switch to be activated regardless of which part of the emblem is pressed, thereby improving ease of operation without requiring precise positioning accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If the emblem-integrated trunk opening device is provided without waterproof structure, then the device can be manufactured simply, but moisture may permeate into the switch causing reliability issues

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitch protection from moistureVSAvoidwaterproof structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A waterproof rubber pad is introduced as a flexible sealing element between the emblem and the trunk opening/closing device. The rubber pad conforms to the mating surfaces and prevents moisture permeation into the micro switch and internal components, providing reliable protection without requiring complex waterproof structures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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

Enhances trunk opening convenience and operability by allowing operation from any part of the emblem while maintaining a waterproof structure, preventing moisture ingress and improving durability.

Implementation Method 1

a return spring that is provided on the body to apply the pressing and restoration operating force of the emblem knob

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a pad that is provided between the emblem knob and the body and provided with two link portions, each having one part transferring a vertical motion of the emblem knob at the same stroke

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical linkage: Lever

Implementation Method 3

The switch operating rib enables the micro switch to operate according to the pressing motion of the emblem knob

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical contact: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 4

The body may be provided with a drain hole so as to discharge moisture introduced thereinto

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity-driven flow: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS9022435B2Trunk switch assembly integrated with emblem
Publication Date: 2015.05.05 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD
  • US9022435B2 patent drawing
  • US9022435B2 patent drawing
  • US9022435B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A trunk switch assembly integrated with an emblem, includes a body; an emblem knob that is coupled with an outer side of the body so as to have an emblem provided on an outer surface thereof and provided with a switch operating rib. The trunk switch assembly further includes a micro switch that is provided in a switch case; a pad that is provided between the emblem knob and the body and provided with a link portion having one part transferring a vertical motion of the emblem knob at the same stroke; and a return spring that is provided on the body to apply the pressing and restoration operating force of the emblem knob. The switch operating rib operates the micro switch according to the pressing motion of the emblem knob.