Multi-Trigger Touch Switch for Gloved and Proximity Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional touch switches pose a convenience issue for medical personnel wearing gloves, as they must remove their gloves to operate elevators due to infection control concerns, limiting safe and easy access.
Innovation Solution
A switch with multiple trigger functions incorporating a touch switch, sensors, and a microcontroller that allows activation by both direct button pressing and proximity sensing, enabling operation without physical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional touch switch is used, then the switch can be operated by direct contact, but users wearing gloves cannot operate it without removing gloves, compromising safety and convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sensor as an intermediary between the user and the switch. The sensor detects the user's approach or touch through non-contact means (such as capacitive sensing, infrared detection, or optical sensing), allowing the switch to be activated without direct physical contact. This intermediary mechanism enables users wearing gloves to operate the switch safely while maintaining infection control protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical touch switch with an electronic sensing system. Instead of relying on mechanical contact through a button press, the system uses electronic sensors to detect the user's presence or approach and triggers the switch function accordingly. This substitution eliminates the need for direct mechanical contact, allowing gloved users to operate the device without removing gloves.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a touch switch requiring direct contact is used, then the switch structure remains simple, but it lacks versatility for different user needs including those wearing protective gear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the switch universal by incorporating multiple sensing modes. The sensor can detect both direct touch and proximity approach, allowing the same switch to serve different user needs - those who can touch directly and those wearing protective gear. This multi-functionality enables the switch to adapt to various operational scenarios without requiring separate control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from purely mechanical contact to include electromagnetic or optical fields. By using sensors that detect changes in electrical capacitance, infrared radiation, or other physical parameters, the switch can respond to both direct contact and proximity. This parameter change expands the switch's adaptability while managing complexity through integrated sensor technology.
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
Enables safe and convenient operation of controlled devices like elevators by allowing activation through touch or proximity, addressing the limitations of conventional touch switches for gloved users.
Implementation Method 1
when the object enters the sensing zone, the first sensor senses the signal change
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a switch with multiple trigger function, which comprises: a touch switch having a button thereon; a first sensor having a sensing zone; and a microcontroller coupled to the touch switch and the first sensor; when the button is pressed by an object, the touch switch is conducted, and the microcontroller executes actions corresponding to the touch switch, thereby driving a controlled device; or when the object enters the sensing zone, the first sensor senses the signal change, and the microcontroller enables the touch switch to be conducted according to the signal change, or generates a signal the same as the signal for conducting the touch switch for executing corresponding actions, thereby driving a controlled device.