Input Apparatus Tilt-Tolerant Cam Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional input switches require precise linear pushing to switch between connection and disconnection states, making them difficult to operate accurately, especially when the pushing direction is tilted.
Innovation Solution
An input apparatus with a pressing part, spacer, and rotating cam, where the spacer reciprocates along a first direction and the rotating cam rotates in a plane perpendicular to the first direction, utilizing projections and recesses with slopes to convert pressing movements into rotating operations, allowing for detection by a sensor and enabling operation with reduced tilt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional input switch uses a pushing part that directly contacts a rotating part via cam surfaces, then the switching function is achieved, but the operation becomes difficult when the pushing direction is tilted from the center axis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spacer as an intermediary component between the pushing part and the rotating cam. The spacer includes a pressing surface that converts tilted pressing forces into effective rotational motion of the cam, allowing the system to tolerate directional errors in pressing while maintaining reliable operation. This mediator absorbs the directional deviation and transforms it into useful rotational movement.
2Reliability
If the pushing part is pushed accurately along the center axis to ensure reliable switching, then the connection and disconnection states are achieved, but the operation becomes difficult and imprecise when tilted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the dimensional relationship by making the cam rotate in a plane perpendicular to the pressing direction. Instead of requiring precise linear alignment along the center axis, the pressing motion (even when tilted) is converted into rotational motion through the spacer's pressing surface. This dimensional transformation allows the system to accept input from a broader range of angles while maintaining reliable switching functionality.
3Ease of operation
If the rotating cam rotates in a plane perpendicular to the pressing direction, then tilted pressing is accommodated, but the mechanism becomes more complex with additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the input mechanism into distinct functional segments: the pushing part, the spacer with pressing surface, and the rotating cam. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, with the spacer acting as a dedicated element to handle the conversion of linear pressing motion to rotational cam motion. The modular structure manages complexity by distributing functions across separate components rather than requiring a single complex mechanism.
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
This configuration allows for stable and easy switching between ON and OFF states even when the pressing part is operated with a tilt, enhancing the operability and reliability of the input apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
The rotating cam is disposed at a side of the spacer opposite to the pressing part and rotates in a plane perpendicular to the first direction with reciprocation of the spacer
Data Source
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AI summary
An input apparatus includes a pressing part, a spacer, a rotating cam, and a sensor. The pressing part is capable of reciprocating along a first direction. The spacer is disposed in the first direction with respect to pressing part and is capable of reciprocating along the first direction with reciprocation of the pressing part. The rotating cam is disposed at a side of the spacer opposite to the pressing part and rotates in a plane perpendicular to the first direction with reciprocation of the spacer. The sensor detects rotation of the rotating cam.