Rotary Stopper Structure for Channel Selection Durability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary encoder switches in radio communication devices face challenges with durability and ease of use due to the complexity of the stopper mechanism, which affects the user's ability to accurately select radio channels, especially when handling the device roughly, and requires a simpler, cost-effective solution for mounting and replacing parts.
Innovation Solution
A stopper structure comprising a tubular body with an engagement projection that is detachably mounted on the rotational shaft, allowing co-rotation with the rotary operation member while inhibiting relative rotation, and a limiting portion on the wall to define the range of rotation, which is integral with the tubular body and made of resin, reducing the number of parts and assembly complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate limiting member is mounted on the chassis to cooperate with the operation member projection, then the rotation range is limited, but the number of parts increases and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the limiting member function into the chassis structure by forming a limiting groove directly on the chassis surface that defines the rotation range. This eliminates the need for a separate limiting member, reducing the number of parts while maintaining the rotation limitation function.
Solution Approach 2:
The chassis structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides structural support, houses the encoder, and simultaneously defines the rotation limit through the integrated limiting groove. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated limiting components.
2Device complexity
If the limiting member is made as a small separate component, then the device complexity is reduced, but the strength and durability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the limiting groove into the chassis structure, the patent creates a robust limiting mechanism that leverages the chassis's inherent strength. The groove is formed as part of the main structural component rather than as a separate small part, ensuring adequate strength and durability.
3Ease of operation
If the chassis opening edge is designed with small recesses for the limiting member, then the rotation is limited, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The limiting groove is integrated into the chassis molding process or machining operation, allowing it to be formed as a single piece without requiring separate components or complex assembly steps. This simplifies manufacturing while maintaining the rotation limitation function.
4Strength
If a thick stopper is used to prevent biting into the operation member, then the durability improves, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The limiting groove is formed directly on the chassis surface, utilizing the existing structural thickness of the chassis rather than adding a separate thick stopper component. This approach provides adequate strength to prevent biting while maintaining device compactness.
Data Source
AI summary
A stopper structure includes a wall defining an opening. A rotary electronic component has a rotational shaft extending through the opening. A channel stopper has a tubular body and an engagement projection. The tubular body is detachably mounted onto the rotational shaft and is inhibited from rotating relative thereto. The engagement projection extends from an end of the tubular body in an axial direction and a radial direction with respect to the rotational shaft. A rotary operation member is detachably mounted onto the rotational shaft and the tubular body and is inhibited from rotating relative thereto. The rotary operation member has an axial hole in which at least portions of the rotational shaft and the tubular body fit. A limiting portion provided on the wall is engageable with the engagement projection for limiting a range of rotation of the rotational shaft.