Multi-function Switch for Oral Care Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing oral care appliances using pressurized gas and liquid require multiple individual switches and actuators to control and sequence various functions, leading to increased complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function switch assembly with O-ring sealed channels and actuation mechanism that controls multiple functions in a sequence using a single switch, allowing for the mixing of compressed gas and liquid to produce a stream of droplets for teeth cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple individual switches and actuators are used to control each function separately, then each function can be controlled independently, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separate switches and actuators are merged into a single integrated actuation assembly with a common stem. The stem sequentially engages different O-ring seals to control gas inlet, liquid inlet, and gas outlet functions through one unified mechanical action, reducing component count while maintaining independent function control
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuation assembly serves multiple functions by controlling different fluid pathways at different stages of the cleaning cycle. The stem assembly universally controls gas admission, liquid admission, and gas discharge through its sequential movement, eliminating the need for separate actuators for each function
2Reliability
If multiple individual switches are used to control sequencing, then proper operation can be achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple switching functions are merged into a single actuation assembly with integrated O-ring seals positioned at different locations on the stem. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled, lowering manufacturing cost while maintaining reliable sequencing through the inherent mechanical sequence of stem movement
3Device complexity
If a single switch controls multiple functions, then cost and complexity are reduced, but the sequencing precision must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
Different O-ring seals are positioned at specific locations along the stem to create localized sealing zones. Each O-ring engages with a specific port (gas inlet, liquid inlet, gas outlet) at a predetermined position, ensuring precise sequencing through the spatial arrangement of seals rather than complex control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The O-ring seals are pre-positioned on the stem at specific locations before assembly. As the stem moves sequentially, each pre-positioned O-ring automatically engages or disengages from its corresponding port in the correct sequence, ensuring precise timing of gas and liquid admission without requiring active control for each transition
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 solution reduces complexity and cost by enabling a single switch to control multiple functions effectively, improving reliability and efficiency in oral care appliance operations.
Implementation Method 1
the O-rings are positioned on the stem portion relative to the inlet channel and the outlet channel such that in a first position of the actuation assembly, one O-ring seals the inlet channel at the hollow chamber
Implementation Method 2
the inlet channel is uncovered, allowing into the hollow chamber an amount of gas
Implementation Method 3
a pump is activated to move liquid into the mixing chamber
Implementation Method 4
the gas in the hollow chamber to rapidly move into the mixing chamber to mix with the liquid therein, to produce a stream of liquid droplets
Implementation Method 5
a spring returning the actuation assembly to its initial position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
A multi-switch (24) for an oral care appliance includes a switch housing (28) having a hollow chamber (30) therein, a button actuator (32) with at least two O-rings (42) around the periphery thereof, and inlet and outlet channels (50, 52) connecting a source of compressed gas (18) with the housing chamber and the housing chamber with a mixing chamber (26), respectively. A pump (60) moves fluid from a reservoir (20) to the mixing chamber. The O-rings are positioned so that as the button actuator is actuated and then released, the outlet is closed and the inlet is opened, allowing gas to move into the housing chamber. The pump is actuated, and then the inlet is closed and the outlet opens, allowing gas in the chamber to move to the mixing chamber to produce a stream of fluid droplets, which are directed out through a nozzle portion (16) of the appliance.