Configurable Multi-Zone Momentary Push Switch with Segmented Key Top
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Solution Overview
Problem
Momentary electrical push switches typically have limited symmetrical activation positions that require specific motions, restricting fluidity of motion and adaptability, particularly in applications like typing where varied user styles and rapid input are necessary.
Innovation Solution
A momentary electrical push switch with a key-like top surface that can be configured for multiple activation positions, allowing free-form movement and varied pressing forces across different areas, utilizing a contact ring and spacer layer design to enable non-uniform and non-symmetrical actuation zones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a push switch has limited symmetrical activation positions, then the switch structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the fluidity of motion and adaptability to varied user styles are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The key top surface is divided into multiple activation zones (first activation zone, second activation zone, third activation zone) that correspond to different activation positions. Each zone can be independently activated by pressing different areas of the key top, enabling multiple functions from a single key structure without requiring multiple separate switches.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs non-uniform and non-symmetrical activation zones on the key top surface, allowing different areas of the key to trigger different activation positions. This asymmetric design enables varied pressing motions and locations to activate different functions, accommodating individualized typing styles while maintaining a relatively simple overall switch structure.
2Productivity
If a push switch requires specific narrowly-defined motions to actuate activation positions, then the switch activation is precise and controlled, but the fluidity of motion is reduced and typing speed is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The key top is designed to allow free-form movement when pressed, without requiring users to use specific or narrowly-defined motions. The activation zones are configured to respond to pressing forces applied to different areas of the button's top surface, accommodating rapid and varied typing motions while maintaining reliable activation.
Solution Approach 2:
A single key top surface serves multiple functions by incorporating multiple activation zones that can be triggered by different pressing locations. This multi-functional design allows the key to accommodate various typing styles and motions while maintaining precise activation control, thereby improving both typing speed and fluidity of motion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a push switch has multiple activation positions with non-uniform and non-symmetrical areas, then the adaptability and fluidity of motion are improved, but the manufacturing precision and alignment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The key top surface is segmented into distinct activation zones with different shapes and sizes (quadrangles, circles, hexagons, or irregular shapes) that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows for non-uniform and non-symmetrical activation positions while maintaining clear boundaries between zones, facilitating manufacturing by allowing each zone to be defined and positioned independently.
Data Source
AI summary
A momentary electrical push switch that can be configured for 2 or more activation positions. The switch has a top surface, or “key” top, which is pressed down upon in different areas to actuate the switch's different activation positions. The key top can be of various shapes, such as quadrangles, circle, hexagon, etc., or irregular shapes, to suit a particular application. The key top can be divided into multiple segments, or activation zones, each corresponding to a different activation position of the switch. The key allows free-form movement when pressing down upon it, without requiring the user to use specific or narrowly-defined motions to actuate the various activation positions.