Multidirectional Pushbutton Actuation Using a Tilting Disc
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pushbutton switches require a discrete urging force applied parallel to their longitudinal axis to activate or deactivate, failing to activate if the force is applied from another direction.
Innovation Solution
A multidirectional switch activation device featuring a control button and activation disc that allow the pushbutton switch to be activated by an urging force applied in any direction, utilizing leverage and a tilting motion to activate the switch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional pushbutton switch is used, then the switch structure is simple, but the switch can only be activated by force applied parallel to its longitudinal axis
Solution Approach 1:
The switch activation mechanism is segmented into multiple functional components: a control button, a pivotable actuator arm, a pivot axis, and a pushbutton switch. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function, with the actuator arm serving as the key element that converts multidirectional button movement into unidirectional switch activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a rotational dimension to the activation mechanism by introducing a pivot axis. The actuator arm pivots about this axis, converting lateral or multidirectional movement of the control button into the required axial movement for switch activation. This dimensional transformation enables multidirectional operation while maintaining simple switch structure.
2Ease of operation
If force is applied from a direction other than parallel to the longitudinal axis, then the pushbutton switch fails to activate
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator arm serves as an intermediary mechanism between the control button and the pushbutton switch. It mediates the force transmission by converting force applied in any direction at the button into unidirectional force along the switch's activation axis, ensuring reliable switch activation regardless of the direction in which the button is pressed.
Solution Approach 2:
By introducing the pivot axis, the system transforms force vectors from multiple directions into a single effective direction. The pivot mechanism allows the actuator arm to rotate and redirect forces applied laterally or at angles into the required axial force for reliable switch activation.
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 the activation of pushbutton switches from multiple directions, enhancing usability and flexibility without the need for a current or power supply, and can be retrofitted to existing switches.
Implementation Method 1
The control button and activation disc utilize leverage to actuate or activate it the host switch. Sideways manipulation of the control button (movement other than parallel to the longitudinal axis, AL, or direction of motion of the switch) urges or 'tilts' the activation disc.
Data Source
AI summary
A multidirectional switch activation device, including a control button and an activation disc, and wherein a control button second end is attached or coupled to at least a portion of the activation disc first end; and a button housing, wherein a button housing disc cavity extends to a button housing disc cavity shoulder and a button housing button cavity extends from the button housing disc cavity shoulder to a button housing first end, wherein the button housing disc cavity shoulder protrudes into the button housing disc cavity, wherein the activation disc is positioned within the button housing disc cavity such that at least a portion of the activation disc first end of the activation disc may contact the button housing disc cavity shoulder, and wherein the control button and the activation disc are repeatably slidable relative to the button housing between a deactivated position and an activated position.