Rubber Stem Switch Structure With Integrated Inversion Spring Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch devices require a housing to support the inversion spring and rubber dome, making it difficult to reduce the number of parts in the switch device configuration.
Innovation Solution
A pressing operation body is designed with a rubber stem that bends to press an inversion spring, eliminating the need for a separate housing by using a base portion with retaining portions to support the leg portions of the metal contact, thereby reducing the overall number of parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a housing is used to support the inversion spring and rubber dome, then the structural stability is improved, but the number of parts increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the housing function into the base portion of the rubber stem. The base portion includes retaining portions that directly support the leg portions of the inversion spring, eliminating the need for a separate housing component. This integration maintains structural stability while reducing the number of parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The base portion of the rubber stem serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, retains the inversion spring through retaining portions, and eliminates the need for a dedicated housing. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while maintaining necessary structural roles.
2Reliability
If a housing is used to support the inversion spring, then the inversion spring is properly retained, but the overall device size increases and compactness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining function previously requiring a separate housing is merged into the base portion of the rubber stem. The retaining portions are formed as integral features of the base portion, ensuring reliable inversion spring retention while minimizing device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The inversion spring is nested within the space defined by the base portion's retaining portions. The leg portions of the inversion spring are retained by the retaining portions that extend into the internal space of the base portion, achieving compact arrangement without compromising retention reliability.
3Device complexity
If the base portion includes retaining portions to support the leg portions, then the number of parts is reduced, but the manufacturing complexity of the base portion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base portion is formed from rubber material that can be molded into complex shapes including integrated retaining portions. The flexibility of rubber molding allows the base portion to incorporate retaining features without requiring separate manufacturing steps or additional components, balancing part reduction with manufacturing feasibility.
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
This configuration allows for a more compact switch device design with fewer components while maintaining the functionality of turning a membrane switch to an ON state with a click sensation, and supports the metal contact without a housing, reducing the part count.
Implementation Method 1
a rubber stem configured to bend in response to pressing and press the inversion spring
Data Source
AI summary
A pressing operation body includes an inversion spring having a dome shape; and a rubber stem configured to bend in response to pressing and press the inversion spring. The inversion spring includes a dome portion, and a plurality of leg portions that are extended outward from an outer peripheral edge of the dome portion. The rubber stem includes a base portion configured to support a lower edge of the rubber stem. The base portion includes a plurality of retaining portions configured to retain the plurality of leg portions of the inversion spring.