Encoder With Flexible Positioning Portions For Universal PCB Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing encoder designs for mice require multiple molds to accommodate different circuit board thicknesses, leading to increased time and cost due to the need for frequent design changes.
Innovation Solution
An encoder design featuring a body with two positioning portions, each comprising interconnected segments that can be elastically deformed to fit various circuit board thicknesses, eliminating the need for multiple molds by providing a universal fit through adjustable positioning and contact points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different encoder structures are designed for different circuit board thicknesses, then the encoder can fit various board thicknesses, but extra molds are required which consume more time and incur extra cost
Solution Approach 1:
The encoder body incorporates a flexible section that can elastically deform during insertion. This dynamic flexibility allows the encoder to adapt to different circuit board thicknesses without requiring different mold designs, thereby reducing the number of molds needed while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The encoder utilizes elastic deformation of the flexible section to change its physical parameters (shape and volume) during insertion. This parameter change enables the encoder to accommodate varying circuit board thicknesses with a single mold design, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different encoder structures are designed for different circuit board thicknesses, then the encoder can fit various board thicknesses, but production time increases due to frequent design changes
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible section provides dynamic adaptability through elastic deformation, allowing a single encoder design to work across different circuit board thicknesses. This eliminates the need for frequent design changes and mold switches, thereby reducing production time while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The encoder design achieves universality by incorporating the flexible section that can accommodate multiple circuit board thickness specifications. This single universal design replaces multiple thickness-specific designs, reducing production time by eliminating repeated design and mold change processes.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the encoder body is made rigid for structural stability, then positioning precision is improved, but the encoder cannot adapt to different circuit board thicknesses
Solution Approach 1:
The encoder body is segmented into a rigid section and a flexible section. The rigid section maintains structural stability and positioning precision, while the flexible section provides adaptability to different circuit board thicknesses. This segmentation allows both requirements to coexist without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the encoder body have different mechanical properties: the rigid section provides structural stability for positioning, while the flexible section provides local adaptability for thickness variation. This local quality differentiation resolves the contradiction between overall stability and local adaptability.
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 encoder can be adapted to different circuit board thicknesses without requiring new molds, reducing production time and costs while ensuring stable electrical connections and precise rotation detection.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient section is provided in the encoder body; the resilient section is flexible and can be elastically deformed when the encoder is inserted into the circuit board
Data Source
AI summary
An encoder and a mouse using the same are disclosed. The encoder includes a body, a first positioning portion and a second positioning portion. The first positioning portion is connected to the body and includes a first segment and a second segment, wherein the first segment extends outwardly relative to the body, and the second segment extends inwardly relative to the first segment. The second positioning portion is connected to the body and includes a third segment and a fourth segment, wherein the third segment extends outwardly relative to the body, and the fourth segment extends inwardly relative to the third segment.