Snap-Action Switch Assembly With Separated Cover and Fixed Terminal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch devices with snap action mechanisms often face challenges in assembly efficiency, component integration, and miniaturization due to integrated design of components like the cover and fixed terminals, leading to reduced yield and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A switch device design where the cover is separate from the first fixed terminal, allowing for press-fitting and temporary holding mechanisms, enabling easier assembly, improved positioning accuracy, and miniaturization by separating components and optimizing the structure of terminal connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the cover and first fixed terminal are integrated into a single component, then the device structure is simplified, but assembly efficiency decreases and manufacturing yield is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the integrated cover and first fixed terminal into separate components. The cover (12) and first fixed terminal (19) are manufactured independently and then assembled together through press-fitting, allowing for specialized manufacturing processes for each component while maintaining a compact final structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The first fixed terminal (19) is press-fitted into the case (11) through the opening (10), creating a nested arrangement where the terminal is housed within the case structure. The cover then closes over this nested arrangement, completing the integrated assembly.
2Device complexity
If the cover and first fixed terminal are integrated, then component count is reduced, but positioning accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the cover and first fixed terminal into distinct components, each can be manufactured with precise dimensional tolerances and positioning features independently, then assembled with high precision through the press-fitting process and temporary holding mechanisms.
3Productivity
If components are separated for easier assembly, then assembly efficiency improves, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The separated components are arranged in a nested configuration where the first fixed terminal is press-fitted into the case, and the cover closes over this assembly. This nesting minimizes the overall device volume while maintaining the benefits of separate component manufacturing and assembly.
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
Enhances assembly efficiency, improves yield, and facilitates device miniaturization while maintaining functional accuracy and reliability of contact switching.
Implementation Method 1
a movable terminal (18) including a snap action mechanism that bends a spring (22)
Data Source
AI summary
A switch device includes, a movable terminal including a snap action mechanism that bends a spring when a user moves an operating portion, a first fixed terminal that contacts the movable terminal when the spring is not bent, a second fixed terminal that contacts the movable terminal when the operating portion is moved by a specified amount to bend the spring, a case including an opening, and a cover that closes the opening and is separate from the first fixed terminal. When the opening is closed by the cover, the first fixed terminal is positioned in the case by the cover.