Oscillator-Type Switch Asymmetric Elastic Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Oscillator-type switches face operational instability when the fixed end side end portion of the operation unit is pressed, resulting in a reverse-direction rotational moment that prevents switch operation.

Innovation Solution

The oscillator-type switch design includes an elastic member mounted on a base, an oscillation member with a driving section connected in a specific horizontal direction, an operation unit, a reaction force application member, and a detector, where the elastic member is positioned to ensure a consistent rotational moment regardless of the pressing position, allowing stable operation by applying a reaction force and utilizing a ridge portion for enhanced rigidity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the operation unit is pressed at the fixed end side end portion, then a reverse-direction rotational moment is generated, but the switch operation becomes impossible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitch operationVSAvoidoperational stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic member is positioned asymmetrically relative to the operation unit, specifically arranged so that its center line in the first horizontal direction falls within a range that is outside the projection area of the operation unit. This asymmetric arrangement ensures that pressing any position of the operation unit generates a rotational moment in the same direction, eliminating the reverse-direction moment problem and enabling reliable switch operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Reliability

If the elastic member is repositioned to ensure consistent rotational moment, then switch operation stability is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitch operation stabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic member serves multiple functions: it provides the necessary rotational moment for switch operation, acts as a support structure for the oscillation member, and functions as a spring element for the reaction force application. By making the elastic member multi-functional, the patent achieves improved operational stability without proportionally increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This configuration ensures stable switch operation regardless of the pressing position, maintaining consistent click feeling and operation load, and allows for high-rigidity oscillation members with reduced deflection and design impact, enabling comfortable and natural finger operation.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic member (6) mounted on the lower side substrate (4) and flexible in an up-down direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a reversal spring (10) arranged between the driving section (7b) of the oscillation member (7) and the pressure-sensitive switch sheet (5) and functioning as a reaction force application member that applies a reaction force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS9472355B2Oscillator-type switch
Publication Date: 2016.10.18 ALPS ALPINE CO LTD
  • US9472355B2 patent drawing
  • US9472355B2 patent drawing
  • US9472355B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An oscillator-type switch includes a base, an elastic member mounted on the base and flexible in an up-down direction, an oscillation member having a base portion mounted on the elastic member and a driving section connected from the base portion in a first horizontal direction along an upper surface of the base, a key top set on the oscillation member, a reversal spring applying a reaction force to a downward movement of the driving section, and a pressure-sensitive switch sheet detecting the downward movement of the driving section. The elastic member is arranged for a center line in the first horizontal direction within a range in which the elastic member is mounted on the oscillation member to be positioned outside a projection area of the operation unit in the first horizontal direction.