Push-Button Structure With Sliding Lock For Electronic Atomizer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic cigarette push-button structures are prone to improper operation due to their large size, which can be easily activated by external contact, leading to unintended vapor system unlocking when the device is carried in a pocket or bag.
Innovation Solution
A push-button structure featuring a slide block that can toggle between locking and unlocking positions, preventing accidental activation by aligning protrusions and grooves to secure the push-button in a locked state when not in use, allowing manual switching between locked and unlocked states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the push-button is made large in area for ease of operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates because it becomes easy to be pressed by other contact objects causing improper operation
Solution Approach 1:
The push-button structure is segmented into two independent functional components: a large-area push-button for user operation and a separate slide block for locking control. This segmentation allows the button to maintain its large size for ease of operation while the slide block provides independent protection against accidental activation by external contact objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The slide block acts as an intermediary mechanism between the push-button and the vapor system. It controls whether the push-button can transmit force to the vapor system by engaging or disengaging the locking portions. This intermediary structure prevents direct transmission of accidental contact forces while allowing intentional user input when unlocked.
2Reliability
If a mechanical locking mechanism is added to prevent improper operation, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the push-button assembly itself rather than being a separate system. The slide block integrates with the push-button structure through locking portions that engage with the button's protrusion, combining the locking function within the existing button assembly and avoiding additional complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of adding a complex locking mechanism that actively secures the button, the design inverts the approach by using a simple slide block that passively engages with the button's protrusion. The locking state is maintained by the engagement geometry itself rather than active locking components, simplifying the overall structure.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a push-button structure. The push-button structure includes a support, a push-button, and a slide block. The push-button is connected to the support and has a push direction. The slide block is connected to the support in a sliding manner along a direction perpendicular to the push direction of the push-button, and the slide block is capable for sliding and has a locking position and an unlocking position. The push-button is provided with a first locking portion at one side facing the slide block. The slide block is provided with a second locking portion fitting the first locking portion. When the slide block slides to the locking position, the first locking portion is locked to the second locking portion. When the slide block slides to the unlocking position, the first locking portion is unlocked from the second locking portion.