Asymmetric Lever Switch Layout for Narrow Display Bezels
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Solution Overview
Problem
The narrow frame design of display devices necessitates a reconfiguration of multi-directional lever switches, as existing designs require space across the fulcrum, leading to mounting challenges.
Innovation Solution
A lever switch design where the first and second fulcrums are positioned on the same side of a virtual straight line passing through the operation portion and rotation axis, allowing for space-saving disposition within the bezel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lever switch is designed with symmetric switch disposition across the fulcrum, then equal operation feeling is achieved, but mounting space is insufficient for narrow frame bezels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning both the first and second switches on the same side of the fulcrum instead of symmetrically across it. The first switch is disposed at a first position and the second switch at a second position, both on the same side, creating an asymmetric layout that reduces the required mounting space while maintaining operational balance through lever ratio design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses local quality by differentiating the lever ratios for the first and second switches. The lever ratio for the first switch is defined as the ratio of the first distance (from operation portion to first switch) to the second distance (from fulcrum to first switch), and similarly for the second switch. By locally adjusting these ratios, equal operation feeling is achieved despite the asymmetric positioning.
2Area of stationary object
If the lever switch is reconfigured for space saving, then mounting in narrow frame bezel is enabled, but operation balance may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting the lever ratios as key parameters. The lever ratio for the first switch is set to match the lever ratio for the second switch, ensuring equal operation feeling. This is achieved by carefully selecting the distances from the operation portion to each switch and from the fulcrum to each switch, thereby balancing the operation characteristics despite the asymmetric, space-saving configuration.
3Reliability
If symmetric switch disposition is used, then operation consistency is maintained, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetry in the spatial arrangement of switches while maintaining operational consistency through parameter control. Both switches are positioned on the same side of the fulcrum at different locations, creating a compact asymmetric structure that reduces device volume while the lever ratio design ensures consistent operation characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains operation consistency by controlling the lever ratio parameters. The lever ratio for each switch is defined as the ratio of the distance from the operation portion to the switch to the distance from the fulcrum to the switch. By setting these ratios appropriately, the patent ensures that both switches provide consistent and equal operation feeling despite their different positions in the asymmetric layout.
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 enables space-efficient mounting of lever switches in narrow frame bezels while maintaining equal operation feelings for both directions, enhancing usability and visibility.
Implementation Method 1
an operation lever (2) including an operation portion (221) to which an operation load is to be applied, and configured to swing around a rotation axis (A10)
Implementation Method 2
a first drive lever (3) driven by the operation lever (2) and configured to swing around a first fulcrum (A1) to drive a first switch (5)
Data Source
AI summary
A lever switch includes: an operation lever including an operation portion to which an operation load is to be applied, and configured to swing around a rotation axis; a first drive lever driven by the operation lever and configured to swing around a first fulcrum to drive a first switch in response to the operation lever being operated around the rotation axis in a first direction; and a second drive lever driven by the operation lever and configured to swing around a second fulcrum to drive a second switch in response to the operation lever being operated in a second direction opposite to the first direction. When projected onto a plane orthogonal to the rotation axis, the first and second fulcrum are disposed on the same side with respect to a virtual straight line passing through the operation portion and the rotation axis, and separated from the virtual straight line.