Stacked Turntable Switch Assembly for Compact Multi-Function Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices face challenges with increased switch count occupying space and reducing space utilization efficiency, as well as inconvenient operation due to switches being positioned at different locations.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a stacked turntable assembly comprising a first and a second turntable, each rotatably disposed on a housing, with engaging structures and fixing members to form multi-step and stepless turntable assemblies that integrate switch functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple switches are mounted on the electronic device to provide various functions, then the device functionality is improved, but the space occupation increases and space utilization efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice functionalityVSAvoidspace occupation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested turntable structure where a second turntable is rotatably disposed on the first turntable, which itself is rotatably disposed on the housing. This nested arrangement allows multiple switch functions to be integrated in a compact space, with the second turntable providing additional control options without significantly increasing the overall device footprint.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a two-dimensional layout of switches on the device surface to a three-dimensional stacked turntable assembly. By utilizing the vertical dimension and creating overlapping rotational layers, the design integrates multiple switch functions into a compact spatial configuration, reducing the horizontal space occupation while maintaining functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If switches are disposed at different positions on the electronic device, then various functions are provided, but the operation convenience decreases and users need to spend more time to find and operate each switch

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction varietyVSAvoidoperation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple switch functions into a unified stacked turntable assembly located at a single position on the device. The first and second turntables are integrated together, allowing users to access various functions through a集中的 control interface rather than searching across different locations, thereby improving operation convenience while maintaining function variety.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The turntable assembly serves as a universal control interface that integrates multiple switch functions. Both the first turntable (with engaging structures for multi-step control) and the second turntable (with annular engaging structures for stepless control) can cooperate with switch elements to realize different functions, providing a multi-functional control system at a centralized location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Area of stationary object

If a stacked turntable assembly is implemented to improve space utilization, then the space efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases due to engaging structures and fixing members

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace utilization efficiencyVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the control system into distinct functional modules: the first turntable with its engaging structures for multi-step control, the second turntable with annular engaging structures for stepless control, and various fixing members. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while being integrated into a compact stacked assembly, achieving space efficiency through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If engaging structures are added to form multi-step and stepless turntable assemblies, then the switch function integration is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitch function integrationVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs standardized engaging structures that can be replicated across the first and second turntables. The engaging structures on the first turntable and the annular engaging structures on the second turntable follow consistent design patterns, allowing for standardized manufacturing processes and reducing the overall manufacturing complexity despite the multiple functions integrated.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentEP4657482A1Electronic device
Publication Date: 2025.12.03 GETAC TECH CORP
  • EP4657482A1 patent drawingFigure 1A
  • EP4657482A1 patent drawingFigure 1B
  • EP4657482A1 patent drawingFigure 2A

AI summary

An electronic device includes a housing, first and second turntables, first and second fixing members, first engaging structures, a second engaging structure, third engaging structures, and a fourth engaging structure. The first turntable is rotatably disposed on the housing. The first and second fixing members are fixed to the housing. The first engaging structures are disposed on one of the first turntable and the first fixing member. The second engaging structure is disposed on another of the first turntable and the first fixing member and configured to engage with the first engaging structures. The second turntable is rotatably disposed on the first turntable. The third engaging structures are disposed on one of the second turntable and the second fixing member. The fourth engaging structure is disposed on another of the second turntable and the second fixing member and configured to engage with the third engaging structures.