Rotary Actuator Axial Switch Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary ring actuators for haptic feedback in touch panels lack a simple and cost-effective way to implement a key switch function for confirming selections, requiring additional user interface elements.
Innovation Solution
A metal or metalized ring is axially displaced on the base body, mechanically and electrically coupled to the sliding contact element, causing a lifting of the sliding contact that interrupts the electrical connection with the touch panel, recognized as a push button function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate push button switch is implemented on the touch panel for confirmation input, then the key switch function is achieved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the confirmation input function with the existing rotary ring adjuster by integrating a switch contact into the rotary mechanism. The switch contact is arranged on the rotary ring and can be actuated by axial displacement of the rotary ring, allowing confirmation input to be performed through the same physical component used for rotation, thereby eliminating the need for separate push button switches
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary ring adjuster is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be rotated to navigate through menu options and simultaneously actuated axially to confirm selections. This multi-functional design allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require separate controls, reducing overall device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional push button switches are added to the rotary ring control, then the key switch function is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch contact is integrated into the existing rotary ring structure rather than being manufactured as a separate component. The switch contact is arranged on the rotary ring and utilizes the axial displacement movement already inherent in the rotary mechanism, allowing confirmation function to be added without requiring additional manufacturing processes or components
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary ring structure itself serves dual purposes: it provides the rotational interface for menu navigation and, through its axial displacement capability, provides the actuation mechanism for the switch contact. The existing mechanical structure of the rotary ring is utilized to provide the confirmation function without requiring external actuation mechanisms
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 confirmation of selections using a single sliding contact element, providing a robust and independent acknowledgment function without additional user interface contact, and operates regardless of ring press position.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitively sensing detection surface of a touch panel
Implementation Method 2
a metal or metalized ring is arranged on the base body so that it can be displaced axially against a restoring force
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A description is given of a rotary actuator having a stator arranged on a capacitive sensing-based sensing surface of a touch panel, also having a main body rotatably mounted on the stator, and having a ramp ring able to be twisted counter to the stator, on which ramp ring there is arranged at least one electrically conductive sliding contact element which bears on the sensing surface by a sliding contact and the position of which on the sensing surface can be determined by the touch panel, wherein a metal or metallized ring is arranged on the main body so as to be able to be displaced axially counter to a return force, wherein the ring is coupled both electrically and mechanically to the sliding contact element, and wherein a displacement of the ring in the direction towards the touch panel causes the sliding contact to mechanically lift off the sensing surface.