Self-Returning Rotary Switch Assembly with Spring Plunger Cam
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-returning rotary switches in automotive steering wheel column integrated modules lack compactness, cost efficiency, and simplicity in manufacturing and assembly, while also failing to provide effective haptic feedback for user confirmation of control actions.
Innovation Solution
A self-returning rotary switch assembly featuring a lever and head support with snap-locking mechanism, utilizing two collinear spring plungers for self-returning and multi-position haptic functionality within a compact design, allowing for versatile switch tuning and robust haptic feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional self-returning rotary switches are used, then self-returning functionality is achieved, but the device size is large and assembly is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the self-returning mechanism and haptic feedback mechanism into a single integrated assembly. The spring plunger simultaneously provides both the self-returning force and the haptic feedback through its interaction with the cam profile, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The spring plunger serves multiple functions: it provides self-returning force, generates haptic feedback through cam interaction, and maintains continuous contact with the cam profile. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed and simplifies the overall assembly structure
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate mechanisms are used for self-returning and haptic feedback, then functionality is complete, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the self-returning and haptic feedback functions into a single spring plunger-cam interaction system, the patent reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining complete functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The spring plunger is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously, reducing the total component count and associated manufacturing costs while ensuring both self-returning and haptic feedback functions are fully implemented
3Volume of moving object
If compact design is implemented, then assembly size is reduced, but haptic feedback effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cam profile uses a curved surface that interacts with the spring plunger to generate haptic feedback. The curvature of the cam surface allows for effective force transmission in a compact space, maintaining haptic feedback effectiveness while keeping the assembly size reduced
Solution Approach 2:
The integration of the spring plunger and cam mechanism allows the haptic feedback force to be generated within the compact assembly volume, eliminating the need for separate haptic feedback components that would increase size
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 assembly achieves a compact, cost-effective, and easy-to-assemble switch with sufficient self-returning and haptic forces, ensuring reliable user feedback and efficient control of vehicle subsystems.
Implementation Method 1
a self-returning haptic assembly (5, 6) coupled with said activating element (4), said haptic assembly comprising two spring plungers (51, 61) pressing on two engaging surfaces (52, 62)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A self-returning rotary switch assembly (1), in particular a self-returning rotary switch assembly of a steering wheel column integrated module of an automotive vehicle, comprising a support (2, 3), an activating element (4) disposed rotationally within the support and mechanically coupled with an electric signal device, and a self-returning haptic assembly (5) coupled with said activating element (4) to maintain the neutral position thereof. In order to provide a switch assembly having a compact, cost efficient and simple construction that would provide several intermediate angular positions, said self-returning haptic assembly (5) comprises at least one spring plunger (51) disposed substantially parallelly to the axis (A) of rotation of said activating element (4) and pressing onto a curved, preferably helical, engaging surface (52) in order to maintain the neutral position of said activating element (4), wherein said switch assembly (1) further comprises a multi-position haptic assembly (6) comprising at least one spring plunger (61) disposed substantially perpendicularly to the axis (A) of rotation of said activating element (4) and pressing onto a curved, engaging surface (62) provided with a number of radial recessions (63) and a number of radial projections (64) corresponding to intermediate positions and providing haptic multi-position functionality of the assembly (6).