L-Shaped Displacement Switch for Small-Hand Operability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing operation devices for work machines, such as skid steer loaders, face challenges in designing a displacement switch that is easily operable by operators with varying hand sizes, particularly in terms of thumb accessibility and error prevention during operation.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a displacement switch with a main operation portion and a subordinate operation portion, where the subordinate operation portion extends perpendicular to the main operation portion, allowing for easy operation by small-handed operators and featuring a base with an insertion inlet for a support member to facilitate swinging or sliding, while preventing external substances from entering the switch mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the displacement switch is designed with a standard configuration, then the structure is simple, but it is difficult for operators with smaller hands to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The displacement switch is designed with a L-shaped configuration where the main operation portion extends in the width direction and the subordinate operation portion extends in the depth direction. This two-dimensional layout allows operators with smaller hands to reach both operation portions comfortably, as the subordinate portion protrudes toward the operator from the main portion, creating multiple accessible entry points for the thumb.
2Ease of operation
If the displacement switch allows free movement, then it is easy to operate, but error operations may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The displacement switch is segmented into a main operation portion and a subordinate operation portion that are spatially separated and extend in different directions. The main operation portion is positioned further from the operator while the subordinate operation portion protrudes closer to the operator. This segmentation allows the thumb to naturally follow a specific path and makes it difficult to accidentally activate the wrong portion, thereby preventing error operations while maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The main operation portion and the subordinate operation portion are painted in different colors. This visual differentiation helps operators distinguish between the two operation portions, reducing the likelihood of error operations. The color coding provides an additional layer of information that guides proper operation without adding mechanical complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the switch structure is open for easy operation, then accessibility is improved, but external substances can enter the mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The displacement switch is housed within a base that has a hollow interior space. The main operation portion and subordinate operation portion are positioned within this enclosed space, which is accessible only through a designated insertion inlet. This nested structure allows the switch components to be protected from external contaminants while maintaining operational accessibility through the controlled opening.
4Ease of manufacture
If the support member is freely insertable, then assembly is simple, but positioning precision is poor
Solution Approach 1:
An insertion inlet is provided in the base through which the support member is inserted. This insertion inlet acts as an intermediary guide that directs the support member to the correct position during assembly. The inlet's geometry and positioning ensure that the support member is accurately located as it enters the hollow space, achieving precise positioning without requiring complex alignment procedures or additional adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A displacement switch includes a main operation portion having a hollow shape. The main operation portion includes a top surface via which the displacement switch is operated, and a side surface connected to the top surface to define the hollow shape. The displacement switch also includes a support member connected to the main operation portion and swingable around a swing axis together with the main operation portion, and a base including a peripheral wall surrounding an insertion inlet into which the support member is inserted. The main operation portion covers the insertion inlet such that the side surface surrounds an outer peripheral surface of the peripheral wall.