Three-Position Rocker Switch With Dual Micro-Switch Redundancy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle switches require multiple components and are inconvenient for riders, as they need separate switches for functions like pass and Self-Start, which can lead to operational failures and safety issues.
Innovation Solution
An integrated three position rocker switch that combines the functions of high beam, low beam, and pass operations using a single switch with two micro-switches and a knob assembly, eliminating the need for additional switches and enhancing functional safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate switches are used for different functions (turn indicator, head lamp, pass, self-start), then each function can be independently controlled, but the number of components increases making the assembly complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple switching functions (head lamp dimmer and pass switch) into a single integrated rocker switch assembly. The housing contains both a first micro-switch for head lamp control and a second micro-switch for pass function, eliminating the need for separate switches and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining independent control of each function
Solution Approach 2:
The single rocker switch assembly performs multiple functions: it controls head lamp dimming (low beam/high beam) through the first micro-switch and activates the pass function through the second micro-switch. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of components needed in the vehicle's control system
2Device complexity
If a single micro-switch is used to perform multiple functions (low beam, high beam, pass), then the number of components is reduced, but if the micro-switch fails it leads to failure of the switch and inability to perform important vehicle functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the switching functions into separate micro-switches: the first micro-switch handles head lamp dimming functions (low beam/high beam) while the second micro-switch handles the pass function. This segmentation ensures that a failure in one micro-switch does not affect the operation of the other, maintaining system reliability while keeping component count low
3Reliability
If separate pass switch or self-start switch is mounted on the handlebar, then each function can be independently activated, but the operation is inconvenient for the rider and may cause distraction while riding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the pass switch function into the same rocker switch assembly as the head lamp dimmer controls. Both functions are accessible from a single location on the handlebar, allowing the rider to operate both head lamp and pass functions without reaching for separate switches, thereby reducing distraction and improving convenience
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 integrated switch reduces complexity and cost, provides a safer operational experience by consolidating functions into a single device, and ensures critical vehicle functions are maintained even if one micro-switch fails, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.
Implementation Method 1
a plunger coupled with the knob through a resilient member
Implementation Method 2
the resilient member is a spring configured to secure the plunger in the knob assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated three position rocker switch for vehicles comprises a housing configured to support one or more components of the switch, a knob assembly, a first micro-switch, a second micro-switch and knob. The knob assembly is disposed in the housing, wherein the knob assembly comprises a knob pivotally supported in the housing, and a plunger coupled with the knob through a resilient member. The first micro-switch is coupled with the knob assembly in the housing, and the second micro-switch is disposed in the housing in vicinity of the first micro-switch. The knob is configured to move in multiple positions for actuating the first and second micro-switches to perform more than one operation.