Tactile Switch Assembly With Folded Flexible Circuit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
As electronic devices become smaller and thinner, optimizing the use of space to accommodate increasing numbers of electronic components and circuitry is a challenge, particularly in input devices where traditional tactile switches occupy significant space.
Innovation Solution
A tactile switch assembly that incorporates a flexible circuit which folds over itself to reduce size, incorporating a stiffener with component chambers for additional electrical components, allowing for accordion-style folding and efficient use of space within the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional tactile switches are used in electronic devices, then the switch function is reliable, but the device occupies significant space which conflicts with miniaturization trends
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible circuit is folded over itself multiple times to create a compact nested structure, reducing the overall footprint of the tactile switch assembly while maintaining the necessary circuit length and functionality. This nesting approach allows the circuit to occupy minimal space in the final assembled device.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a two-dimensional layout to a three-dimensional folded structure by having the flexible circuit fold over itself in multiple dimensions. This dimensional transformation reduces the projected footprint while preserving the functional circuit path length.
2Volume of moving object
If the flexible circuit is folded to reduce size, then the footprint is reduced, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible circuit is divided into multiple foldable sections with defined bend regions, allowing each segment to be independently folded. This segmentation simplifies the overall folding process and makes the complex structure more manageable and manufacturable.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of a flexible circuit board with inherent flexibility allows for easy folding without requiring complex mechanical hinges or joints. The thin film structure naturally accommodates bending and folding, reducing structural complexity compared to rigid folding mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If component chambers are created in the stiffener, then additional components can be integrated, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The component chambers are integrated directly into the stiffener structure during the same manufacturing process, combining two functions (structural support and component housing) into a single component. This merging reduces the total number of parts and simplifies assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The stiffener serves multiple functions: providing structural support to the flexible circuit, creating protective chambers for additional components, and maintaining the folded configuration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate structural elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A tactile switch assembly can include a tactile switch structure electrically connected to one end of a flexible circuit. The tactile switch assembly has a first length when the flexible circuit is in an unfolded state and a smaller second length when the flexible circuit is in a folded state. The flexible circuit folds over itself one or more times in the folded state. The tactile switch structure can include a stiffener positioned over a switch. The flexible circuit can extend over at least a portion of a top surface of the stiffener and wrap around the stiffener at a bend region and extend under at least a portion of a bottom surface of the stiffener. One or more component chambers can be created in openings in the stiffener that provide additional locations for one or more electrical components to be electrically connected to the flexible circuit.