Push Switch Structure for Click Feedback and Load Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing push switches can only perform simple on-off switching and lack the capability to detect various types of pushing operations, limiting their functionality.
Innovation Solution
An input device incorporating an invertible spring, a load sensor, and a conductive stem that imparts a clicking sensation and enables various detections of the pushing operation through a simple configuration, including a housing, an invertible spring, a load sensor, and a conductive stem that interacts with fixed contacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a simple push switch configuration is used, then the device complexity is low, but the detection capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The stem serves multiple functions: it acts as a mechanical lever to invert the spring for clicking sensation, a conductive member for electrical switching, and a force transmission element to push the load sensor for detection. This multi-functionality enables diverse detection capabilities without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the stem, invertible spring, and load sensor into an integrated assembly where the stem simultaneously interacts with both the spring and sensor. This merging of components allows the system to achieve both mechanical feedback (clicking) and operational detection within a single compact structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If only on-off switching is implemented, then the device complexity is low, but the operational versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The load sensor provides feedback about the pushing operation characteristics (force, duration, pattern) to the control unit. This feedback mechanism enables the system to detect and respond to different operational modes beyond simple on-off switching, such as distinguishing between a light tap and a firm press, or detecting the duration of the push.
Solution Approach 2:
The same physical components (stem, spring, sensor assembly) support both the traditional switching function and the enhanced detection functionality. The control unit processes sensor data to enable multiple operational modes including click detection, pressure-level detection, and operational pattern recognition, all without adding separate mechanical structures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a conductive stem is used for switching, then the electrical connection is simple, but the detection of pushing operations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The load sensor acts as an intermediary element between the stem and the housing. As the stem pushes the spring, it simultaneously transmits force to the load sensor, which mediates the conversion of mechanical force into an electrical signal for detection. This intermediary enables detection capability while maintaining the simplicity of the conductive stem for switching.
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 input device provides a clicking sensation and enables detection of switching states and operating loads, enhancing operational versatility with a straightforward design.
Implementation Method 1
an invertible spring provided inside the housing
Implementation Method 2
a load sensor arranged alongside the invertible spring inside the housing
Implementation Method 3
the stem is a conductive member, and in response to the operating load applied to the stem, the stem pushes both the top portion of the invertible spring and the load sensor, and also comes into contact with the first fixed contact so that the first fixed contact is energized via the stem
Data Source
AI summary
An input device includes a housing; an invertible spring provided inside the housing; a load sensor arranged alongside the invertible spring inside the housing; a stem extending across a top portion of the invertible spring and the load sensor, and configured to push both the top portion of the invertible spring and the load sensor in response to an operating load applied to the stem; and a first fixed contact provided inside the housing, wherein the stem is a conductive member, and in response to the operating load applied to the stem, the stem pushes both the top portion of the invertible spring and the load sensor, and also comes into contact with the first fixed contact so that the first fixed contact is energized via the stem.