Mistake-Proof LED Switch with Tapered Light Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional illuminating push button switches have complex structures that complicate installation and maintenance, risk damaging the light guiding elements during assembly, and require special tools and training, making them costly and difficult to assemble and repair, while also reducing the lighting effect due to upward light emission and challenging LED replacement.
Innovation Solution
A simplified structure with a body portion and cap portion, featuring a concave portion, frame portion, and connector pins, allowing for easy LED insertion and mistake-proof design with locking projections, enabling LED detachment and simultaneous PCB connection without damaging the light source, and a tapered passage for even light distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the light source is connected to the PCB first, then the electrical connection is established, but the assembly process becomes complex and requires multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light source, light guiding element, and electrical connection into a single integrated base assembly. The light source is mounted on the PCB along with the light guiding element, eliminating the need for separate connection steps and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining reliable electrical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The base structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the light source, guides the light, establishes electrical connection to the PCB, and houses the light guiding element. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and assembly steps required.
2Illumination intensity
If the light guiding element is placed against the light source, then light guidance is achieved, but solder or glue may be transferred to the light guiding element and reduce its effect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary structure between the light source and light guiding element that prevents direct contact during the soldering or gluing process. This intermediary barrier ensures that solder or glue does not transfer to the light guiding element, maintaining its optical properties while still allowing effective light guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The base structure is segmented into distinct zones: a mounting area for the light source where soldering occurs, and a separate area for the light guiding element. This spatial segmentation prevents contamination of the light guiding element during the electrical connection process while maintaining functional integration.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the light source is glued to the light guiding element, then the components are fixed, but the light source replacement becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic fixation system where the light source can be easily removed and reinstalled. The base structure includes features such as snap-fit mechanisms or removable mounting elements that provide stable fixation during operation but allow for simple replacement when needed, eliminating the need for glue or complex fastening.
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
Simplifies installation and maintenance, prevents LED misconnection, ensures bright and even lighting, and allows for easy LED replacement without special tools, reducing manufacturing costs and improving the lighting effect while maintaining the switch's integrity.
Implementation Method 1
A light emitting diode (LED) (6) is inserted for lighting said cap portion (1)
Implementation Method 2
a tapered passage for even light distribution
Data Source
AI summary
An illuminating push button switch having a mistake-proof design to avoid improper installation of a light emitting diode (LED) consists essentially of a body portion (2), a cap portion (1) attached above said body portion (2), and a LED (6) inserted into the body portion (2) from the bottom. Said push button switch is characterized in that said body portion (2) incorporates a light cap (22), and a slot (23) for receiving the LED (6). A frame portion (30) is reciprocating along the light cap (22) for activating/deactivating the switch. Said mistake-proof design is provided at an inner wall of the slot (23).