Pivoting Switch Element for Compact, Easy-Clean Appliance Controls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switch elements for household appliances, such as rotatable control buttons and press buttons, lack user-friendly, robust, and compact designs, particularly in tight spaces, and often fail to provide effective protection against dirt and liquid ingress.
Innovation Solution
A pivotable switch element with a spaced pivot axis and actuator button, designed as a pendulum-like swing element, mounted to a housing with a pivotable attachment and elastic elements, featuring a base portion and stopper member to facilitate robust, compact, and easy-to-clean construction, while preventing dirt and liquid ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional rotatable control buttons or press buttons are used, then the switch element can control electronic and electric parts, but the design is not user-friendly and manipulation is not simple and comfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The switch element is designed as a pendulum-like swing element that pivots about an axis spaced apart from the actuator button, enabling dynamic swinging motion between two stable positions. This dynamic design allows the switch to rock back and forth smoothly, providing intuitive and comfortable manipulation compared to conventional static buttons.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of conventional linear pressing or rotational twisting motions, the invention introduces a swinging motion in a different dimensional plane. The actuator button swings arcually about a pivot axis, creating a new interaction dimension that feels more natural and comfortable for users.
2Volume of moving object
If the pivot axis is spaced apart from the actuator button, then the switch element can be mounted in tight interspaces, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting element is integrated into the base portion of the switch element itself, with the pivot axis formed by a pivot pin that passes through the base portion. This nested integration allows the mounting structure to be compact and space-efficient, fitting into tight interspaces within the housing while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting element acts as an intermediary component that connects the switch element to the housing. It includes a pivot pin that rotates within a bearing, providing a simple yet effective pivot mechanism that reduces friction and enables smooth swinging motion without requiring complex mounting structures.
3Reliability
If the switch element is designed as a pendulum-like swing element, then the household appliance can be constructed robust and safe, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch element is divided into distinct functional components: an actuator button for user interaction, a base portion containing the mounting element and pivot axis, and a return spring for restoring the switch to its initial position. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes and then assembled, simplifying manufacturing while ensuring robust construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The return spring is designed to automatically restore the switch element to its initial position after actuation, eliminating the need for additional mechanical returns or complex resetting mechanisms. This self-service feature enhances reliability by ensuring the switch always returns to a known state while simplifying the overall manufacturing process.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional button designs are used, then the structure is simple, but protection against dirt and liquid ingress is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator button is designed with a domed or curved surface that naturally sheds liquid and prevents dirt accumulation. The smooth, continuous surface without crevices or gaps makes it difficult for contaminants to adhere, while the curved geometry facilitates liquid runoff, enhancing protection against dirt and liquid ingress.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of trying to seal the switch element with complex gaskets and seals, the invention inverts the approach by designing the actuator button surface to actively repel contaminants. The domed surface geometry works passively to prevent dirt and liquid accumulation, reducing the need for additional sealing components.
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
The solution provides a user-friendly, robust, and compact switch element that ensures reliable operation, easy cleaning, and effective protection against dirt and liquid ingress, enhancing the safety and durability of household appliances.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic element whose restoring force acts on the switch element
Data Source
Figure 1a~2a
Figure 2b~2c
Figure 2d
AI summary
Disclosed is a switch element 10 for a household appliance. The switch element comprises an actuator button 11 designated to be pressed by a user to control one or more electronic and/or electric part/s 21, 23 of the household appliance. The switch element 10 further comprises at least one mounting element 12a, 12b configured to pivotably attach the switch element to a holding portion 31a, 31b of the household appliance. Therein, a designated pivot axis X is spaced apart from the actuator button 11. Further disclosed is a household appliance unit 100 comprising a switch element 10, and a household appliance comprising such household appliance unit 100 as a component.