Switch Base Plate Segmentation for Slider Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing buckle switch devices face challenges during assembly due to the deformation of the slider contact, which is caused by the pressing force from the switch base plate, leading to complications in assembly and a decrease in yield, especially due to variations in dimensional precision and operator skill.
Innovation Solution
A switch device with a sliding member that includes a flexible conductive contact member, an extended portion on the switch base plate, and a cut-out portion, allowing the base plate to be latched by claw portions without directly contacting the contact member, thereby preventing deformation during assembly. This design enables easy assembly and supports the sliding member for sliding motion without plastic deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the switch base plate is inserted between the pair of claw portions to assemble the sliding member, then the sliding member can be latched and supported for sliding motion, but the slider contact undergoes plastic deformation due to pressing force from the base plate
Solution Approach 1:
The leading end portion of the switch base plate is segmented into two functional zones: an extended portion that engages with the first claw portion, and a cut-out portion that creates clearance from the second claw portion. This segmentation allows the base plate to be latched by the claw portions without the leading end pressing against the slider contact, preventing plastic deformation while maintaining assembly ease.
2Ease of manufacture
If the slider contact is pressed and bent by the leading end portion during assembly, then the switch base plate can be inserted between the claw portions, but the contact member suffers damage and assembly becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The cut-out portion extracts or removes the interfering leading end portion of the base plate from the assembly path between the claw portions. By creating this clearance zone, the base plate can be inserted and latched by the first claw portion without the leading end contacting or pressing against the slider contact, thereby preventing damage and maintaining contact member integrity throughout the assembly process.
3Manufacturing precision
If adept manipulation is used during assembly, then contact member deformation can be avoided, but assembly becomes time-consuming and yield decreases due to skill variations
Solution Approach 1:
The switch base plate design with the extended portion and cut-out portion enables self-alignment and self-latching during assembly. The extended portion automatically engages with the first claw portion, and the cut-out portion ensures clearance from the second claw portion, allowing the base plate to be properly positioned and latched without requiring skilled manipulation. This makes the assembly process robust against operator skill variations and increases production yield.
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
The solution simplifies the assembly process by eliminating the need for skilled operators and prevents damage to the contact member, ensuring reliable and efficient assembly of the switch device while maintaining the sliding functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the contact member being deformed by bending by a pressing force from the sliding surface in a state in which the switch base plate is latched by the first claw portion and the second claw portion
Data Source
AI summary
A switch device, comprising: a switch base plate that includes a sliding surface on one side thereof, a sliding member that is provided with a first claw portion and a second claw portion, the sliding member being latched by the first and second claw portions, and the sliding member also being supported by the switch base plate so as to be slidable in a sliding direction; a contact member that is disposed in a position opposing a sliding surface of the sliding member, the contact member being deformed by bending by a pressing force from the sliding surface, and the contact member is pressed against the sliding surface by a restorative force from the bending deformation; an extended portion that is formed at a leading end portion of the switch base plate; and a cut-out portion that is formed at the leading end portion of the switch base plate.