Motorcycle Handlebar Switch with Orthogonal Substrate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handlebar switches for motorcycles require multiple substrates and a larger switch case, limiting design freedom and increasing the number of parts, which restricts the layout and operation of multiple switches.
Innovation Solution
A handlebar switch design featuring a single substrate positioned orthogonally within a switch case with direction change mechanisms, including a wedge-shaped cam mechanism, allows multiple switches to be operated without additional substrates, reducing the switch case size and enhancing layout flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple substrates are used for different switches, then each switch can be independently disposed, but the number of parts increases and the switch case size becomes larger
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple substrates for different switches (dimmer switch, operating switches) are merged into a single integrated substrate. This substrate is disposed orthogonally to the handlebar axis, allowing all switch contacts to be arranged on one plane, thereby reducing the number of parts while maintaining layout flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate is positioned in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of the axis of the handlebar, utilizing a different spatial dimension for switch arrangement. This orthogonal positioning allows multiple switches to be disposed on a single substrate without interfering with the handlebar structure, solving the space constraint problem.
2Length of moving object
If substrates are disposed perpendicularly to reduce handlebar axial dimension, then the switch case size increases due to multiple substrates
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple substrates are merged into one integrated substrate that accommodates all switch contacts. This single substrate is disposed perpendicularly to the handlebar axis, reducing the handlebar axial dimension while avoiding the volume increase that would result from stacking multiple substrates.
Solution Approach 2:
A single substrate serves multiple functions by integrating contacts for both the dimmer switch and operating switches. This multi-functional substrate eliminates the need for separate substrates, thereby reducing switch case volume while maintaining all necessary switching functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple substrates are used, then each switch can be independently designed, but the degree of freedom in design is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple substrates are merged into a single substrate that integrates all switch contacts. This integration maintains design freedom because the orthogonal disposition allows flexible arrangement of contacts on the single substrate, while reducing device complexity by eliminating the need for multiple separate substrates.
4Volume of stationary object
If the switch case size is reduced, then the number of parts is reduced, but the layout freedom of switches is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The substrate is disposed in a direction substantially orthogonal to the handlebar axis, utilizing a different spatial dimension for switch layout. This orthogonal arrangement allows multiple switches to be disposed on a single substrate within a compact switch case volume, maintaining layout freedom without increasing case size.
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
The design achieves a compact switch case size while allowing for a high degree of freedom in switch layout, reliable operation, and reduced production time by integrating multiple switches on a single substrate, providing a click feel and efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
the direction change mechanisms include a wedge-shaped cam mechanism that includes: an inclined surface portion disposed to face the contact and formed on an actuator moving in the direction substantially identical to the direction of the axis of the handlebar; and an operator reciprocating in response to an operation of the operating switch and abutting on the inclined surface portion; and as the operating switch is operated, the operator presses the inclined surface portion, which results in the actuator being pressed in the direction substantially identical to the direction of the axis of the handlebar.
Data Source
AI summary
A handlebar switch for a motorcycle that achieves reduction in size of a switch case, while enhancing a degree of freedom in layout of a plurality operating and other types of switches. A handlebar switch includes: a switch case that includes case half bodies, joined together across a handlebar and a plurality of operating switches, such as a horn switch, protruding from the switch case; and a substrate disposed inside the switch case in a position substantially orthogonal to a direction of an axis of the handlebar, the substrate having a plurality of contacts for generating electric signals in a manner operatively associated with an operation of the operating switch. In the handlebar switch, each of the contacts is electrically connected by pressure applied in a direction substantially identical to the direction of the axis of the handlebar.