Jog Dial Braking Mechanism With Adjustable Multi-Point Friction

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing jog dial unit struggles to provide a desired braking force due to the frictional load applied to the rotational shaft, making it difficult to adjust the braking force effectively.

Innovation Solution

An acoustic device with a rotary operator and a base that includes a braking unit with multiple contact members, where the braking force is adjusted by an adjuster, allowing the braking force to vary based on the adjustment amount, enabling precise control of the braking force applied to the rotary operator.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If a frictional load is applied to the rotational shaft at the center of the jog dial, then a braking force can be generated, but it becomes difficult to provide the desired braking force and adjust the braking force effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebraking forceVSAvoidadjustability of braking force
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The braking unit is divided into multiple contact members (first contact member and second contact member) that can independently contact the rotary operator at different positions. This segmentation allows the braking force to be adjusted by selectively engaging different contact members, solving the problem of insufficient adjustability when using a single frictional load application point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of applying braking force only at the center rotational shaft (one-dimensional point contact), the invention applies braking force at multiple positions including the outer circumference and radial directions (multi-dimensional surface contact). This dimensional expansion provides more degrees of freedom for braking force adjustment and better control characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple contact members are used to apply braking force at different positions, then the braking force adjustability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebraking force adjustment rangeVSAvoidstructure of braking unit
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple contact members are integrated into a single braking unit that is collectively adjusted by one adjuster mechanism. The first and second contact members are positioned and configured to work together, merging their functions into a unified braking system that maintains simplicity while providing extended adjustment range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The adjuster mechanism serves multiple functions: it adjusts the position of both the first and second contact members, controls the engagement timing, and regulates the braking force magnitude. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms for each contact member, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 easy adjustment of the braking force on the jog dial, enhancing the operational control and reducing static friction, thereby improving the usability and performance of the jog dial.

Implementation Method 1

a coil spring interposed between an engagement piece of a left holding lever of the load applying unit and a spring receiving piece

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a frictional force between the holding levers and the rotational shaft is adjusted by the normal/reverse rotating operation of the plate cam, thus adjusting the braking load applied to the jog dial

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS11960666B2Acoustic device
Publication Date: 2024.04.16 ALPHATHETA CORP
  • US11960666B2 patent drawing
  • US11960666B2 patent drawing
  • US11960666B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An acoustic device includes a rotary operator and a base supporting the rotary operator so that the rotary operator is rotatable. The base includes a braking unit configured to be brought into contact with the rotary operator to cause a braking force to act on the rotary operator and an adjuster configured to adjust the braking force caused by the braking unit. The braking unit includes a plurality of contact members configured to be brought into contact with the rotary operator to cause the braking force to act on the rotary operator. The braking force acting on the rotary operator by the plurality of the contact members varies depending on an adjustment amount by the adjuster.