Rotary Display Knob With Optical Insert for Stable Side Viewing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing combination of a rotary actuator and an electronic pixel matrix display with an optical element faces issues with the optical element being loose or lost due to lever forces, affecting the visual display when viewed from non-vertical perspectives, leading to damage and impaired optical coupling.
Innovation Solution
A rotary actuator with a central opening featuring a rotationally symmetrical optical element, fixed via a cohesive connection and adhesive layer, ensuring secure attachment and improved optical coupling, with a design that enhances side viewing and prevents rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the optical element projects beyond the rotary actuator to improve lateral viewing, then visibility from non-vertical angles is improved, but the optical element is exposed to contact forces that can lever it loose or cause it to rotate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a 2D display surface to a 3D optical path by introducing an optical element that extends beyond the actuator surface. This allows light to be redirected at different angles, enabling lateral viewing while maintaining image quality through volumetric optical manipulation rather than surface-level adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element acts as an intermediary between the display surface and the viewer's eye. It mediates the optical path by refracting and redirecting light rays, allowing the display to be viewed from lateral angles without exposing the element directly to mechanical contact forces that could dislodge it.
2Illumination intensity
If the optical element is attached only via transparent adhesive layer, then optical coupling is improved, but the adhesive layer is insufficient to resist leverage forces from manual operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two attachment mechanisms: the transparent adhesive layer for optical coupling and the recess-projection mechanical interlock for structural strength. The optical element features projections that fit into recesses in the actuator, creating a combined attachment system that simultaneously achieves both optical transparency and mechanical resistance to leverage forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system uses composite attachment methods combining chemical bonding (adhesive layer) with mechanical interlocking (recess and projection geometry). This composite approach allows the optical element to maintain both optimal optical coupling through the transparent adhesive and sufficient mechanical strength to resist operational forces.
3Reliability
If the optical element is fully covered by the rotary actuator, then the optical element is protected from contact, but lateral viewing of the display surface is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing differential coverage: the optical element is mechanically protected through recesses and projections at its boundaries while maintaining an exposed optical surface for lateral viewing. This localized approach allows specific regions to have different properties - protected structural interfaces and exposed optical interfaces.
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 solution reduces the risk of damage and improves the optical coupling, ensuring stable attachment and enhanced visibility of the display area, even under strong lever forces, while maintaining a pleasing optical appearance.
Implementation Method 1
a transparent adhesive layer for improved optical coupling
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an arrangement (1) comprising: a rotary actuator (2) comprising a base (2b), an annular actuating element (2a) rotatably mounted on the base (2b) about a rotary axis (D) by means of bearing means for rotary input by an operator (B), and means for rotary position detection, wherein the rotary actuator (1) has a central opening (9); an electronic pixel matrix display (3) comprising a display area (A) and a transparent outer layer (3a) covering the display area (A); wherein the base (2b) is arranged on and fixed to the transparent outer layer (3a) of the electronic pixel matrix display (3);An optical element (4) made of transparent material, arranged in the central opening (9), with a rear surface (4b) facing the display area (A), a viewing surface (4a) facing the operator (B), and a lateral surface (4c) facing the base (2b), wherein the optical element (4) is arranged to allow the operator (B) a view of the part of the display area (A) of the electronic pixel matrix display (3) located below the opening (9); wherein the optical element (4) projects at least partially beyond the base (2b) and the actuating part (2a) with its viewing surface (4a) in a direction axially pointing away from the electronic pixel matrix display (2), wherein the optical element (4) is fixed to the base (2b) by a material-bonded connection or by form-fit and/or force-fit connecting means (10); and related uses.