Removable Button Assembly for Load Control Keyboards
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load control systems lack a straightforward method to update or change the identifiers on keypad buttons after installation, necessitating a solution for easily replacing or modifying button assemblies in these devices.
Innovation Solution
A keypad device with removable button assemblies, featuring a spring tree mechanism and a yoke system that allows for easy installation and removal of button assemblies, reducing audible noise and protecting against electrostatic discharge by providing a low-impedance path to ground.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If identifiers are engraved on the buttons, then the identifiers are permanently marked, but the buttons cannot be easily changed or updated after installation
Solution Approach 1:
The button assembly is divided into separable components: the button itself, the spring tree, and the yoke. This segmentation allows the button assembly to be removed and replaced independently, enabling easy updates of identifiers without replacing the entire keypad device.
Solution Approach 2:
The button assembly is designed with dynamic characteristics - it can be inserted into and removed from the yoke channel. The spring tree provides mechanical compliance, allowing the button to be pressed and return to its original position. This dynamic design enables flexible updates while maintaining operational reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the button assembly is made removable for easy updates, then the adaptability is improved, but the reliability of electrical connection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The button assembly is nested within the yoke channel, with the spring tree fitting into the channel and the button mounted on the spring tree. This nested structure ensures proper alignment and secure electrical connections while allowing easy insertion and removal of the button assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring tree automatically makes and breaks electrical connections as the button assembly is inserted or removed from the yoke. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for separate connection operations, ensuring reliable electrical contact during both installation and removal.
3Ease of operation
If a spring tree mechanism is used for button actuation, then the button response is improved, but audible noise during actuation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring tree mechanism, which naturally produces audible noise during button actuation, is designed to provide beneficial mechanical compliance and tactile feedback. The noise is accepted as a byproduct of the reliable mechanical switching action, and the design optimizes the spring characteristics to balance noise reduction with operational responsiveness.
4Ease of operation
If the button assembly is designed to slide through the channel for removal, then the ease of replacement is improved, but the precision of button positioning may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The button assembly is nested within the yoke channel with tapered surfaces that guide proper alignment during insertion. The spring tree fits into the channel with complementary geometric features that ensure precise positioning of the button relative to the switch actuator, maintaining manufacturing precision while enabling easy installation.
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
Enables easy replacement of button assemblies, reduces audible noise during button actuation, and safeguards against electrostatic discharge damage, enhancing the flexibility and reliability of load control systems.
Implementation Method 1
reduces audible noise during button actuation
Implementation Method 2
safeguards against electrostatic discharge damage, enhancing the flexibility and reliability of load control systems
Data Source
AI summary
A control device, such as a keypad device, for use in a load control system for controlling the power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load comprises a switch, a yoke fixedly mounted with respect to the switch, and a removable button assembly that may be removed from the control device. The removable button assembly comprises a spring tree having a frame portion and at least one button pivotably coupled to the frame portion. The button assembly is received within a channel of the yoke and is positioned such that the button is operable to actuate the switch when the button is pressed. The button assembly is adapted to slide through the channel, such that the button assembly may be removed from the control device. Accordingly, the button of the control device may be easily changed after installation of the control device.