Switch Box for Multi-Directional Ribbon Switch Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Unidirectional ribbon switches are limited in their operational direction, requiring external pressure to be applied only from a specific surface area, restricting their multi-directional activation capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A switch box design that incorporates external fingers and posts to allow external compression from various angles, converting a unidirectional ribbon switch into a multi-directional activation mechanism by using an elastic material to force the switch's conductors into contact within a housing with internal posts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a unidirectional ribbon switch is used, then the switch structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the switch can only be activated from one specific direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a switch box as an intermediary device between the user and the unidirectional ribbon switch. The switch box contains multiple fingers that can be compressed from different directions, and these fingers transmit the compressive force to the ribbon switch. This mediator enables multi-directional activation without modifying the original unidirectional switch structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds spatial dimensions to the activation mechanism by arranging fingers around the ribbon switch in different orientations. Instead of single-direction compression, the fingers are positioned to receive compressive forces from multiple directions (front, back, sides), effectively converting a 1D activation mechanism into a 3D activation mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the ribbon switch body is made elastic to allow multi-directional compression, then multi-directional activation is enabled, but the switch may not provide sufficient activation force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the need for an elastic switch body with a rigid mechanical transmission system. The fingers are designed with specific geometries that concentrate and transmit compressive forces efficiently to the ribbon switch. This mechanical substitution ensures that sufficient activation force is delivered regardless of the compression direction, overcoming the limitation of using elastic materials.
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
Enables activation of the ribbon switch from a maximum arced region of approximately 180 degrees, enhancing the operational flexibility without modifying the switch itself, allowing for multi-directional activation.
Implementation Method 1
The switch box is formed of an elastic material and has a generally rectangular body with a hollow interior
Data Source
AI summary
A switch box is provided for converting a unidirectionally activated ribbon switch inserted in the switch box into a multi-directionally activated ribbon switch. At least two pairs of fingers protruding from the body of the switch box contact one or more posts protruding into the hollow interior of an external housing in which the switch box is inserted so that external compression of the housing forces the posts into the fingers and the external body of the switch box to activate the unidirectional ribbon switch.