Push Button Actuator With Multi-Orientation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Push button actuator units with limited control capability, as they only allow single rear operating element movement when the front push button is depressed in specific orientations, ignoring potential movements and positions that could be utilized to control multiple auxiliary devices.
Innovation Solution
Enhanced push button actuator units with multiple rear operating elements that can move independently in response to different orientations and positions of the front push button, allowing for a wider range of control and operation of auxiliary devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single rear operating element is used, then the actuator maintains structural simplicity and ruggedness, but the control capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single rear operating element is segmented into multiple independent operating elements (first rear operating element and second rear operating element). Each element can move independently in response to different push button orientations, enabling control of multiple auxiliary devices without compromising the overall actuator structure's ruggedness.
Solution Approach 2:
The push button assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be depressed to move operating elements rearward, and it can be turned to different orientations (first and second orientations) to selectively engage different rear operating elements. This multi-functionality enhances control capability while maintaining a compact design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the rear operating element is prevented from turning, then the actuator maintains reliability in abusive environments, but the ability to control multiple auxiliary devices is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator system is segmented into multiple independent control pathways. Each rear operating element responds to specific push button orientations without requiring the element itself to turn, maintaining reliability while enabling control of multiple auxiliary devices through orientation-based selection.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the actuator system have different functional qualities: the push button assembly handles orientation changes and force application, while the rear operating elements handle linear movement and auxiliary device control. This division of functional quality allows each component to optimize for its specific role, maintaining overall reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If only one orientation triggers rear element movement, then the actuator design remains simple, but the range of control positions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The push button assembly serves multiple functions: depression moves the operating elements rearward, while rotation to different orientations selectively engages different rear operating elements. This multi-functionality expands the range of control positions without adding separate control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static single-position control to a dynamic multi-position control where the push button can be depressed and rotated to different orientations. This dynamic interaction between depression and rotation creates multiple control states, expanding the range of control positions while using the same physical components.
Data Source
AI summary
A push button actuator unit has a housing that defines a passage extending along an axis. A push button assembly has components movable in the passage including a forwardly-biased push button at the front of the housing that is movable along and turnable about the axis. Two independently movable operating elements at the rear of the housing move differently in response to depression of the push button when the push button is turned to different orientations about the axis. The rear operating elements may extend concentrically along the axis, and the unit may be lockable to permit and prevent some operating element movement. The operating elements may be used to selectively disengage, or to engage and move a variety of auxiliary devices situated behind the unit. The unit may provide enhanced resistance to defeat by hammering than has been offered by a known form of push button unit.