Rotary Switch Vertical PCB and Embedded Magnet Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary switches face challenges with increased size due to horizontally positioned printed circuit boards, high costs and difficulty in magnetizing hollow cylindrical magnetic members, vulnerability from single springs, and complexity in compact design and void-free positioning of adjusting wheels.
Innovation Solution
A rotary switch design featuring a vertically positioned printed circuit board, embedded magnetic member within shafts, multiple resilient members for enhanced safety and sensitivity, and a compact structure using standard magnetic members with protected housing, allowing for precise control and reduced part count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the printed circuit board is positioned horizontally to the bottom surface, then the switch can be easily used by the user, but the general size of the rotary switch is elongated, creating problems in narrow mounting areas
Solution Approach 1:
The printed circuit board is repositioned from a horizontal orientation to a vertical orientation, changing the dimensional arrangement of components. This allows the switch to maintain ease of operation while reducing the horizontal footprint and overall size, making it suitable for narrow mounting areas.
2Reliability
If a hollow cylindrical magnetic member is used, then the magnetic field interaction is achieved, but the cost is increased and it is difficult to be magnetized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the expensive and difficult-to-magnetize hollow cylindrical magnetic member with a simpler, cheaper magnetic member that can be easily magnetized. This standard magnetic member achieves the required magnetic field interaction while significantly reducing manufacturing cost and complexity.
3Device complexity
If a single spring is used, then the structure is simplified, but the rotary switch may operate involuntarily if the spring becomes nonfunctional, reducing security
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates multiple springs instead of a single spring to provide redundancy. If one spring becomes nonfunctional, the other springs continue to provide the necessary resilient force, preventing involuntary operation and maintaining security. This redundancy approach cushions against potential failures before they compromise system reliability.
4Volume of moving object
If the printed circuit board is placed very close to the lateral walls inside the body, then the compact structure is achieved, but the magnetic field is exposed to external effects
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic member is embedded inside the shaft, creating a nested arrangement where the shaft housing protects the magnetic member from external effects. This nested structure allows the printed circuit board to be positioned compactly while the magnetic field remains shielded within the shaft, preventing interference from external factors.
5Volume of moving object
If the adjusting wheel is positioned in the middle position in a void-free manner, then the compact design is improved, but it is difficult to perform this during mass production
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses multiple shaft members instead of a single shaft, segmenting the support structure. This segmentation allows for easier positioning and alignment during mass production while achieving the compact, void-free design. The multiple shafts provide reference surfaces and mounting points that simplify the assembly process compared to precise single-point positioning.
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 results in a more compact, cost-effective, and secure rotary switch that is less vulnerable to external effects, with improved sensitivity and safety, and reduced production complexity, while utilizing standard and easily magnetized magnetic members.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic member interacts with the printed circuit board in a magnetic and non-contact manner
Implementation Method 2
Hall effect sensor on the printed circuit board reacts according to the rotation of the magnetic field
Implementation Method 3
at least one resilient member... multiple springs as resilient members
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a switch suitable for multipurpose use, and more particularly it relates to a rotary switch with improved safety. Said switch (40) comprises a main body (3) in which a printed circuit board (1) is placed; an upper body (7) placed on this main body (3) in a manner to partially cover; an adjusting wheel (22) for performing a limited circular movement in a clockwise or counter clockwise direction around an axis; a holding member (24), when in use, for being kept and controlled by the user on the adjusting wheel (22); a magnetic member (32) interacts with the printed circuit board (1) in a magnetic and non-contact manner. said switch (40) further comprises a first shaft (12) and a second shaft (17) which are connected with at least one resilient member (21) and placed mutually on said main body (3); and support members (16) in the form of a protrusion which allows for the connection with the adjusting wheel (22) on this first shaft (12) and second shaft (17) and that said magnetic member (32) is embedded inside the first shaft (12) and the second shaft (17).