Push Lock Unit for Automotive Input Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input devices in cars often lead to operational errors due to the protruding operating body, which can be accidentally activated by the driver's finger or thumb when operating other controls on the instrument panel, causing unintended changes to car functions.
Innovation Solution
A push & lock unit comprising a cylindrical cover, a hollow operating body, a ring-shaped rotary body, an operating shaft, and a housing with cam sections and saw-tooth sections that allow the operating body to be locked in place, preventing accidental activation by incorporating a spring mechanism that compresses and releases to facilitate easy operation and secure locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operating body is left protruding for easy access, then ease of operation is improved, but accidental activation by driver's finger or thumb occurs causing operational errors
Solution Approach 1:
The operating body transitions from a static protruding state to a dynamic locked/retracted state. The push-button mechanism allows the operating body to be pushed inward to lock, preventing accidental activation, and can be easily accessed when needed for operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam section acts as an intermediary mechanism between the operating body and the locking structure. When the operating body is pushed, the cam section engages with the groove and projection to lock the operating body in place, preventing accidental activation while maintaining ease of intentional operation.
2Reliability
If the operating body is locked to prevent accidental activation, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The operating body can be easily pushed to lock or unlock state, and the spring mechanism automatically returns it to the operational position, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring reliability when locked.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism automatically returns the operating body to its operational position after locking, without requiring additional user action. The cam section and groove structure automatically engage and disengage based on the pushing motion, making the locking mechanism self-regulating.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent accidental activation, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the cam section on the rotary body, the groove on the cover, the projection on the housing, and the spring mechanism. Each component has a specific function, and together they create a reliable locking system without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is merged with the existing rotary body structure. The cam section is formed on the rotary body itself, and the locking action is integrated into the pushing motion of the operating body, combining multiple functions into a unified structure rather than adding separate complex locking 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 push & lock unit ensures reliable and error-free operation of car electronic devices by securely locking the operating body when not in use, preventing accidental activation and allowing easy rotation and operation of the rotary-type electronic component, thus enhancing user experience and reducing operational mistakes.
Implementation Method 1
a spring (16) disposed between the operating body (12) and the operating shaft (14) compressively along a first direction
Data Source
AI summary
A push & lock unit includes cam sections mounted on an outer wall of a rotary body that is disposed on an underside of an operating body, and each one of the cam sections contacts a saw-tooth section disposed on a lower end of a rib on an inner wall of a cover and a projection disposed at a bottom center of a housing in response to an up and down movement of the operating body, whereby the rotary body is rotated. When the operating body is pushed, a push face thereof is locked at a position almost flush with an outer face of a panel. When the operating body is pushed once more, it is released from the lock, and restores to a state where the operating body projects from the outer face of the panel.