Compact Switch with Gesture Sensor and Button for Misuse Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switches with misuse protection, such as two-step processes or guarded switches, are unsuitable for compact devices due to space requirements, particularly in automotive applications where inadvertent activation needs to be prevented without occupying excessive dashboard or central console space.
Innovation Solution
A switch design featuring a first part and a second part that require sequential activation using different methods, where one part includes a gesture sensor for a predetermined gesture and the other part is activated via a distinct switching method, such as pressing a button, allowing for a compact co-located arrangement that enhances user attention and awareness, thereby reducing accidental operation risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional two-step switches with physically separated sub-switches or guarded switches are used to prevent inadvertent activation, then misuse protection is improved, but device space requirements increase making them unsuitable for compact applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate switch parts into a single integrated switch component. The first part (gesture sensor) and second part (button) are co-located in one device, eliminating the need for physically separated sub-switches or external guards while maintaining the two-step activation sequence for misuse protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated switch performs multiple functions within a single device: it provides both the gesture recognition function (first part) and the button press function (second part) in one compact unit, allowing the same device to deliver both activation methods without requiring separate components.
2Reliability
If physically separated sub-switches are used to require simultaneous activation by one or two operators, then inadvertent activation is prevented, but the switch complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple switch parts into a single integrated device. The controller receives inputs from both the gesture sensor and button within the same device, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining the requirement for sequential activation of both parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary that coordinates between the gesture sensor and button. It manages the activation sequence by receiving inputs from both parts and determining when the complete two-step sequence has been performed, thereby preventing inadvertent activation through coordinated control logic.
3Reliability
If a guard is provided over the switch requiring physical opening before operation, then misuse protection is achieved, but the device footprint and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical guard system with a sensor-based detection system. Instead of requiring physical opening of a guard, the gesture sensor detects specific user gestures (such as circular motions or tapping patterns) to verify intentional activation, eliminating mechanical components while maintaining protection against inadvertent operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the activation parameter from simple button press to a sequence requiring specific gesture patterns. The gesture sensor recognizes predetermined gestures (such as circular motions, double taps, or specific movement patterns) that differ from accidental contact, thereby providing protection while maintaining ease of intentional operation.
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 switch effectively mitigates inadvertent activation by requiring specific user interactions in sequence, ensuring correct operation while maintaining a compact footprint, as the gesture sensor and button activation methods necessitate sustained user attention and precise action, preventing accidental triggering.
Implementation Method 1
the first switching method includes a user performing a predetermined gesture... the gesture sensor is a touch sensor... a capacitive touch sensor may be used to determine whether a user has performed a required gesture
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
Switch (10) having a first part (1) and a second part (2). The switch (10) is configured to activate in response to a switch sequence including activation of the first part (1) followed by activation of the second part (2). One of the first (1) and second parts (2) includes a touch sensor (1a-f) and is configured to activate in response to a first switching method in which a user moves a digit along a predetermined digit path over the touch sensor (1a-f). The other of the first (1) and second (2) parts is activatable in response to a second switching method different from the first switching method.