Multifunctional Switch with Rotational and Push Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multifunctional selection operation switch apparatuses face challenges with complex interlocking mechanisms, increased costs, and larger operation spaces as the functionality of the operated member increases, due to the need for mechanical connections between operation knobs and operated members.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional selection operation switch apparatus featuring a rotationally operable operation member with multiple operated portions, rotational displacement detecting means, and operation target detecting means, which allows for contact operations and outputs corresponding command signals without a structurally complex interlocking mechanism, enabling simplified multifunctional selection and reduced part count and operation space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanical interlocking mechanism is used to connect operation knobs and operated members, then multifunctional movement can be controlled, but the structure becomes complicated and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The operation member is divided into multiple operated portions (first, second, third, and fourth operated portions) that can be selectively operated. Each operated portion can independently detect operation targets, allowing multifunctional control without requiring complex mechanical interlocking mechanisms between multiple knobs and operated members.
Solution Approach 2:
A single operation member integrates multiple operated portions that can perform different functions. The operation member can detect multiple operation targets (upward push, downward push, leftward rotation, rightward rotation) through its different portions, making one component universal for multiple control functions instead of requiring separate mechanical linkages for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more operated portions are added to the operation member, then more operation commands can be assigned, but the operation space becomes larger
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple operated portions are merged into a single operation member structure. The first, second, third, and fourth operated portions are integrated into one compact component that can be operated in different ways (pushing up/down, rotating left/right), consolidating what would traditionally require multiple separate knobs into one space-efficient unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation member utilizes multiple dimensions of operation - both linear pushing movements (upward/downward) and rotational movements (leftward/rightward). This multi-dimensional operation approach allows four different operation commands to be detected from a single compact member, maximizing functionality within minimal space.
Data Source
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AI summary
A multifunctional selection operation switch apparatus includes: an operation member including multiple operated portions and capable of being rotationally operated, the operated portions being capable of selective contact operation; a rotational displacement detecting device capable of detecting rotational displacement of the operation member; an operation target detecting device capable of detecting on which of the operated portions contact operation is performed; and a controlling device outputting a command signal corresponding to the displacement and the one operated portion, based on detection results of the detecting devices. Accordingly, even if the operation member is a single member, multifunctional selection operation can be performed without difficulty by outputting, whenever necessary, a desired command from multiple operation commands. It is not necessary to mechanically and operatively connect the operation member and the operated portions by a structurally-complicated interlocking mechanism, thereby achieving reduction in the number of parts and cost.