Multi-directional Switch Device for Vehicle Power Mirrors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-directional switch devices for power mirror systems in vehicles are bulky and costly due to the need for multiple components and complex mechanisms, leading to reduced operability and increased risk of operation errors when using a single operation knob for multiple functions.
Innovation Solution
A multi-directional switch device with a single operation shaft and knob that performs rotating and tilting operations, utilizing a circuit board with integrated contacts and a rotation holder to output distinct signals for different operations, eliminating the need for a pressing mechanism and reducing component count, while enhancing usability and reducing size and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If three types of switch mechanisms are individually operated by different operation knobs, then the operability is improved, but the device size is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines three separate operation knobs into a single multi-functional operation shaft that can perform pressing, rotating, and tilting operations. This merging reduces the device size while maintaining multiple operation modes through a unified structure, directly resolving the contradiction between compact size and operational functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation shaft is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: pressing operation for folding/unfolding mirrors, rotating operation for mirror selection, and tilting operation for visual angle adjustment. This multi-functionality allows a single component to replace three separate knobs, reducing device size while preserving operability.
2Volume of moving object
If a single operation knob is used for three types of switch mechanisms, then the device size is reduced, but the operability is degraded due to unclear operation methods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing distinct operational characteristics for different sections of the operation shaft. The upper portion allows rotating and tilting operations for mirror selection and angle adjustment, while the lower portion is designed for pressing operations for folding/unfolding. This spatial differentiation of functional qualities makes each operation mode clearly distinguishable and intuitive.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation shaft employs asymmetric design where the upper and lower portions have different operational characteristics. The upper portion is designed for rotational and tilting movements, while the lower portion is optimized for pressing. This asymmetry creates naturally distinct operation methods that are easy to differentiate, resolving the confusion that would arise from a completely symmetric multi-functional design.
3Ease of operation
If a pressing mechanism with cam and spring is used, then the folding/unfolding operation is achieved, but the device complexity and cost are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex cam mechanism and return spring from the pressing operation system. Instead, it uses a simple pressing switch that directly detects the pressing action and generates the corresponding signal. This extraction of unnecessary components significantly reduces device complexity and cost while maintaining the folding/unfolding operation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical cam and spring system with a simpler electronic switching mechanism. The pressing operation is detected by a switch that converts the mechanical pressing action directly into an electrical signal, eliminating the need for complex mechanical return mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
4Ease of operation
If a pressing operation in axial direction is implemented, then the folding/unfolding command is output, but the depth dimension and assembly space are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a unidirectional axial pressing operation to a multi-dimensional operation system where the operation shaft can be pressed, rotated, and tilted. By adding rotational and tilting dimensions, the design reduces the required axial depth dimension while maintaining the folding/unfolding function through combined operational modes.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-directional switch device includes: an operation shaft to which an operation knob is mounted to perform a rotating operation and a tilting operation; and a housing, which supports the operation shaft. In the housing, a circuit board which has a second fixed contact on the lower surface, a wafer which has a first fixed contact, a rotation holder which rotates integrally with the operation shaft while allowing oscillation of the operation shaft, a rotation slider which rotates integrally with the operation shaft and slides during the tilting operation, a first movable contact, and a second movable contact are arranged. When the operation shaft is rotated and thus the rotation holder is rotated from a rotation neutral position by about 180 degrees, a first signal is output. When the operation shaft is tilted while the rotation holder is rotated by about ±45 degrees, a second or third signal is output.