Input Device Light Guide Selective Design Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional input devices cannot selectively display two different designs on a switch operation surface without increasing complexity and size.
Innovation Solution
An input device with a switch, multiple light sources, and a light guide that guides light in an anti-pressing direction, using plate-shaped light guide legs with reflection surfaces to selectively illuminate either design by arranging them on the same plane, allowing for compact configuration and reduced reflection of unintended designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources and light guide structures are added to selectively display two designs, then the display functionality is improved, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple light guide legs into a single integrated light guide structure. The first and second light guide legs are coupled to the same emission part, allowing both designs to be displayed through a unified optical path structure rather than separate independent structures, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining selective display capability
Solution Approach 2:
The emission part serves multiple functions: it receives light from both the first and second light guide legs, displays both the first and second designs, and can selectively illuminate either design based on which light source is activated. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate dedicated structures for each function
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources and light guide structures are added to selectively display two designs, then the display functionality is improved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide legs are arranged in a nested or overlapping configuration where the first and second light guide legs are positioned to occupy overlapping or adjacent spatial volumes. This nesting approach allows multiple optical paths to coexist within a compact volume, enabling selective display of two designs without proportionally increasing device size
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement by positioning light sources at different locations (first light source at first position, second light source at second position) and arranging light guide legs in three-dimensional space. This dimensional arrangement allows compact integration of multiple optical paths without requiring proportional increases in planar footprint
3Volume of moving object
If light guide legs are arranged on the same plane, then the device configuration becomes more compact, but light reflection control becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
Different light guide legs are assigned different reflective properties tailored to their specific functions. The first light guide leg has reflective characteristics optimized for guiding first light, while the second light guide leg has reflective characteristics optimized for guiding second light. This local differentiation allows compact planar arrangement while controlling unwanted reflections through function-specific optical properties
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
Enables selective display of two designs while maintaining a compact configuration, reducing unwanted reflections and allowing for easy arrangement of optical paths, thus enhancing the device's operational efficiency and aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
The light guide guides light emitted from each of the plurality of light sources in an anti-pressing direction opposite to a pressing direction of the switch
Implementation Method 2
The first reflection surface is disposed along a thickness of the first light guide leg and reflects the first light
Implementation Method 3
The second reflection surface is disposed along a thickness of the second light guide leg and reflects the second light
Data Source
AI summary
An input device includes: a switch to be switched by being pressed; a plurality of light sources including a first light source and a second light source; and a light guide that guides light emitted from each of the plurality of light sources. The light guide includes: an emission part that emits the light; a first light guide leg that is coupled to the emission part and guides first light to the emission part; and a second light guide leg that is coupled to the emission part and guides second light to the emission part. The emission part includes a first design that illuminates by reflecting the first light, and a second design that illuminates by reflecting the second light. The first light guide leg includes a first reflection surface that reflects the first light. The second light guide leg includes a second reflection surface that reflects the second light.