Push Button Assembly with Internal Lamp and Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing push button assemblies for amusement or gaming machines have a relatively large length beneath the panel due to the external mounting of the lamp and switch unit, which is problematic in machines with limited space behind the panel.
Innovation Solution
A push button assembly design where the lamp and switch are mounted within the housing, reducing the overall length beneath the panel, and incorporating a flange structure with inclined side walls and a light-transmitting skirt for additional illumination, along with electrostatic protection using conductive grounding members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the lamp and switch unit are mounted externally on the housing, then the assembly is easier to manufacture and assemble, but the length beneath the panel increases requiring more installation space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the lamp and switch unit into a single integrated assembly that is mounted within the housing. This consolidation allows both components to share the same mounting structure and space, reducing the overall length beneath the panel while maintaining ease of assembly through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The lamp and switch unit are nested within the housing structure, with the switch unit positioned inside the housing cavity and the lamp mounted on the front face. This nesting arrangement utilizes the internal volume of the housing to accommodate components that would otherwise require external mounting space.
2Length of stationary object
If the lamp and switch are mounted within the housing, then the installation space beneath the panel is reduced, but the housing structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the push button, contains the switch unit, mounts the lamp, and offers electrostatic protection through integrated grounding members. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall assembly despite the internal mounting arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is segmented into functional zones: a front face for the lamp and push button, an internal cavity for the switch unit, and integrated grounding structures for electrostatic protection. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining a compact overall structure.
3Reliability
If grounding members are added to the flange for electrostatic protection, then spurious button actuation is prevented, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The grounding members are merged with the flange structure, which is already part of the housing assembly. By integrating the electrostatic protection function into the existing flange rather than adding separate components, the manufacturing process is simplified while still providing reliable protection against spurious button actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange structure serves dual purposes: mechanical support for the housing and electrostatic protection through integrated grounding members. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate grounding components and reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining reliability.
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 allows for a reduced installation space requirement and provides enhanced illumination options, including a 'halo' effect around the button, while preventing spurious button actuation through electrostatic discharge protection.
Implementation Method 1
an actuating structure with a spring
Implementation Method 2
The flange is also conductive and preferably comprises a carbon conductive material... provide electrostatic protection to any circuitry within said housing by providing 'grounding members' which make contact with the panel which is also conductive and connected to the ground
Data Source
AI summary
A push button assembly comprises a button (1) with an actuating structure (5) movably mounted within a housing (2) for operation of a switch (20). The housing (2) provides a frame (18) comprising side wall structures (16), with a flange structure (15) mounted at a top open end thereof, The axial length of the housing (2) is shorter than the horizontal length of the side wall structures (16), resulting in a short push button assembly. The button (1) is illuminable via a lamp (25) which is provided on a carrier strip (22), the switch (20) being mounted on a body (19), both of which can be removably mounted substantially within the confines of the housing (2), with respective connection terminals (23, 21) projecting outward thereof, the assembly therefore occupying minimal space behind a panel when mounted on such a panel of an amusement or gaming machine where space may be restricted.