Illuminated Push-Button Switch Structure Without Diffuser Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing push-button switches require additional components for light diffusion, leading to a complex structure that compromises visibility and simplicity.
Innovation Solution
A push-button switch design incorporating a press-operatable push button with a convexly curved surface and uneven surfaces on its front and back, utilizing internal light sources to diffuse light through these surfaces for improved visibility without additional members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a separate sheet member with light-diffusion part is provided to diffuse light from the light-emitting part, then light diffusion and visibility are improved, but the number of components increases and the structure becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light-diffusing function into the push button itself by forming a first uneven surface on the backside of the push button. This integrates the previously separate sheet member with light-diffusion part into the push button structure, eliminating the need for a separate component while maintaining the light diffusion effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The push button is given multiple functions: it serves as both the operating component and the light-diffusing element. The first uneven surface on the backside of the push button performs the light diffusion function, making the push button a multi-functional component that eliminates the need for separate dedicated light-diffusing parts.
2Illumination intensity
If a transparent plate with light-refracting structure is provided to refract light from the LED, then light quantity for illumination is improved, but the number of components increases and the structure becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the light-refracting function into the shaft portion by forming a second uneven surface on the inner peripheral surface of the shaft portion. This eliminates the need for a separate transparent plate with light-refracting structure, combining the refraction function into an existing component.
Solution Approach 2:
The second uneven surface is formed only on the inner peripheral surface of the shaft portion where light refraction is needed, rather than making the entire shaft portion transparent or complex. This localized application of the refraction function maintains simplicity while achieving the desired light quantity.
3Illumination intensity
If additional members are provided for light diffusion, then light diffusion capability is improved, but the structure becomes complicated and visibility is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light-diffusing function into the push button by forming the first uneven surface directly on its backside. This integration eliminates additional members while preserving the light diffusion capability, thereby maintaining structural simplicity and improving visibility.
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 visibility by diffusing light across the push-button's surface and sides, simplifying the structure by eliminating the need for separate light-diffusing components.
Implementation Method 1
light emitted from the light source is incident on and diffused by the first uneven surface at the backside surface of the push button
Implementation Method 2
light emitted from the light source is incident on and diffused by the first uneven surface at the backside surface of the push button, alternatively, light from the light source is incident on and diffused by the first uneven surface at the backside surface of the push button through the second uneven surface of the inner peripheral surface of the shaft portion
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention improves visibility of a push-button switch and simplifies the structure thereof. Emergency stop switch 1 includes a press-operatable stop button 2, a cylindrical operation shaft 6 adapted to be movable by a press operation of the stop button 2, and an LED 8 disposed inside the operation shaft 6. The stop button 2 has a convexly curved surface 20a formed on a front surface thereof and a first uneven surface 20b formed on a back surface thereof. The operation shaft 6 has a second uneven surfaces 6a, 6b formed at an inner circumferential surface thereof.