Sliding Switch Cover for Tactile Differentiation and Actuation Guarding
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Solution Overview
Problem
In tactical environments, the unintentional actuation of switches on firearm-mounted electronic devices, such as lights and lasers, can compromise operational security due to the lack of tactile differentiation between visible and IR lighting and aiming solutions.
Innovation Solution
The development of switch assemblies equipped with a sliding cover for onboard pressure-activated switches, which allows for tactile differentiation and prevents unintended actuation by covering at least a portion of one switch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If switches are positioned in tandem or adjacent to each other for operational efficiency, then ease of operation is improved, but tactile differentiation between visible and IR lighting and aiming solutions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The switch assembly is segmented into multiple distinct switch elements (first switch and second switch) positioned in tandem, allowing each switch to be independently actuated. This segmentation enables tactile differentiation while maintaining operational efficiency through separate control of visible and IR devices.
Solution Approach 2:
Each switch within the assembly is given distinct local characteristics through separate actuation mechanisms and positioning. The first switch and second switch have different tactile profiles and actuation requirements, allowing the user to differentiate between them by touch while maintaining efficient operation of both devices.
2Ease of operation
If switches are positioned for operational efficiency in low-light environments, then ease of operation is improved, but unintentional actuation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch assembly incorporates dynamic cover elements that can move between covered and uncovered positions. These covers provide a dynamic barrier that prevents unintentional actuation while allowing intentional actuation when needed, thereby improving reliability without sacrificing operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Moveable covers serve as intermediary elements between the user and the switches. These covers mediate the actuation process by providing physical protection against unintentional contact while allowing controlled access when the user intentionally wants to activate a switch, thus reducing unintentional actuation events.
3Reliability
If a sliding cover is added to cover switches, then reliability is improved by preventing unintentional actuation, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The moveable cover serves multiple functions simultaneously: it protects the switches from unintentional actuation, provides tactile feedback to the user, and can be positioned to cover either the first switch or the second switch. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding cover is designed to be moveable rather than fixed, allowing it to adapt to different operational requirements. This dynamic design enables the cover to be positioned to protect either switch as needed, providing flexibility without requiring multiple separate cover components, thus managing device complexity while enhancing reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Switch assemblies, each equipped with a sliding cover for onboard pressure-activated switches, are disclosed.