Flip-Switch Tilting Element Protrusion Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing toggle switch mechanisms in control panels for motor vehicles result in a protrusion of the tilting element during actuation, which is undesirable and can lead to unintended switching processes.
Innovation Solution
A switching mechanism with a rotatably mounted tilting element designed to have two tilting axes, one for the actuating force and one for the restoring force, featuring a centrally arranged bearing element that allows for translational movement, and holding devices to restrict movement within predetermined ranges, preventing unwanted tilting and ensuring precise actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rotatably mounted tilting element is used with a single central bearing point, then the tilting element can perform tilting movement, but the tilting element protrudes beyond adjacent actuating elements during actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing support is divided into two separate bearing points instead of a single central bearing point. Each bearing point is associated with a specific tilting axis (first tilting axis at one end, second tilting axis at the other end), segmenting the support function to enable controlled tilting while preventing protrusion
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having a single central pivot point that allows free tilting, the invention inverts the approach by providing bearing support at both ends of the tilting element. This reversal of the bearing configuration prevents the tilting element from protruding while still enabling the necessary tilting movement for switching
2Ease of operation
If the tilting element is allowed to move freely during actuation, then actuation is simple, but unintended switching processes may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The holding devices are configured to prevent the tilting element from moving beyond predetermined ranges before unintended switching can occur. By establishing preliminary constraints at the bearing points and holding devices, the system prevents erroneous actuation while maintaining simple operation within the valid range
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically transitions between different states (unactuated, first actuated, second actuated) with clearly defined movement ranges. The holding devices enable the tilting element to be held securely in each position, providing dynamic control that ensures reliable switching without unintended processes
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The mechanism has rotatably mounted tilting element (20) including an actuation region on respective ends (26, 28) of the tilting element. Corresponding actuating force (F2) acts opposite to restoring force (F1) for releasing a corresponding tilting motion of the tilting element around tilting axes (KA1). A tilting element is rotatably supported, so that the tilting element includes the tilting axes at the ends and is operated depending on the actuating force, where the tilting axes are in active condition at the ends of the tilting element for actuating the restoring force. An independent claim is also included for a toggle switch engages an un-actuated initial position and two actuated switching positions.