Key Switch Tappet Spring Coupling Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch inserts require cumbersome and error-prone reorientation of a loosely inserted pin to switch between button and switch functions, leading to difficulties in operation and potential loss of the pin.
Innovation Solution
The use of two movably mounted tappets coupled by a spring allows for a simple and safe change between button and switch functions without removing the tappets from the housing, with one tappet serving as a stop and the other allowing further rotation, enabling easy operation and secure retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a loosely inserted pin is used as the adjustment device, then the switching element can operate as either button or switch, but the pin can be lost during removal and reinsertion
Solution Approach 1:
Two tappets are merged into a single coupled unit where one tappet serves as the stop element and the other as the coupling element. They are connected by a spring mechanism that ensures they move together as a pair, preventing loss while maintaining functional versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
A spring acts as an intermediary element coupling the two tappets together. This spring mechanism ensures that when one tappet is pushed in, the other is automatically pulled out, maintaining the paired relationship and preventing loss of components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a loosely inserted pin is used for adjustment, then functional change is possible, but the operation becomes cumbersome and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The two tappets are combined into a single operational unit where pushing one tappet automatically triggers the movement of the other through the spring coupling. This merging simplifies the adjustment operation from a complex remove-and-reinsert process to a simple push action.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-coupled tappet system is self-service in that pushing one tappet automatically causes the other to move to its corresponding position. The system self-regulates the positions of both tappets through the spring mechanism, eliminating the need for manual reorientation.
3Productivity
If two tappets coupled by a spring are used, then quick and secure switching is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjusting device is segmented into two distinct tappets with clearly defined roles: one as the stop element and the other as the coupling element. This segmentation allows for simple individual components that are easy to manufacture and assemble, offsetting the complexity through modularity.
Solution Approach 2:
A simple spring serves as the intermediary coupling mechanism between the two tappets. This spring is a basic mechanical element that is easy to manufacture and integrate, adding minimal complexity while achieving the desired coupled movement and quick switching 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 design facilitates quick and secure switching between button and switch functions with low production costs, ensuring easy operation and preventing pin loss, while maintaining a compact key switch design.
Implementation Method 1
the two tappets can be coupled by a spring, which in particular can be prestressed
Data Source
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AI summary
The insert has a housing in which an electrical switching element that is operated by a rotor (16) is provided. The switching element is adjusted by an adjustment unit (22), which is provided in the housing, such that the element works as a key or a switch. The adjustment unit has two tappets (26, 28) that are movably supported in the housing and are coupled with each other by a prestressed spring (36). The tappet (28) forms a stopper for the rotor and the switching element. The spring is guided by guides (38, 40) having guide surfaces that are spatially separated from each other.