Swing Knob Input Structure That Blocks Foreign Matter Jamming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input devices are susceptible to being hindered by large-diameter foreign matter, such as coins, which can get caught between the operation knob and the cover, making it difficult to perform input operations.
Innovation Solution
The input device incorporates a protrusion that overlaps a gap between the operation knob and a fixed end of the panel member, with a narrow gap width and strategically positioned protrusions to prevent large-diameter foreign matter from being caught, and includes drainage paths for smaller foreign matter and liquid to ensure easy removal and discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a gap is provided between the operation knob and the cover to allow swing motion, then the operation knob can swing freely for input operation, but large-diameter foreign matter can be caught in the gap making it difficult to remove
Solution Approach 1:
The gap between the operation knob and cover is segmented by providing a protrusion that divides the continuous gap into multiple smaller sub-gaps. This segmentation prevents large-diameter foreign matter from being caught while still allowing the operation knob to swing freely through the smaller openings.
Solution Approach 2:
A protrusion is introduced as an intermediary element between the operation knob and the cover. This protrusion acts as a mediator that blocks foreign matter from being caught in the gap while maintaining the swing motion path for the operation knob.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the gap width is reduced to prevent foreign matter from being caught, then foreign matter removal becomes easier, but the operation knob swing may be hindered
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of uniformly reducing the gap width which would hinder operation, the gap is segmented into multiple smaller sub-gaps by the protrusion. This allows the overall gap to remain wide enough for smooth operation while the segmented structure prevents foreign matter accumulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusion creates localized narrow regions (sub-gaps) at specific positions where foreign matter might be caught, while other regions maintain sufficient width for the operation knob to swing freely. This local modification of gap width achieves both objectives.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If a protrusion is added to the case to prevent foreign matter from being caught, then foreign matter removal becomes easier, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusion is merged with the case structure as an integrated feature rather than a separate component. This combining of the protrusion with the existing case reduces overall device complexity while still achieving the foreign matter prevention function.
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusion serves multiple functions: it prevents foreign matter from being caught in the gap, guides the operation knob swing motion, and can be integrated with the case structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
Data Source
AI summary
An input device includes a substrate, a case configured to accommodate the substrate, an operation knob swingably engaged to the case and operated by an operator, and a panel member having an opening allowing swing of the operation knob, at least a part of the opening being closed by the operation knob. The operation knob includes a swing end formed at a predetermined distance from a rotation axis that serves as a rotation center. The panel member includes a fixed end that defines one end of the opening and that faces the swing end in a neutral state in which no operation is performed, and a gap is formed between those ends. The case includes a protrusion, and at least a part of the protrusion overlaps the gap when viewed from a first direction perpendicular to the substrate in the neutral state in plan view.