Switch Device Covering Member Elastic Pressing Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch devices with suppressed play in the operating portion are prone to damage when subjected to strong forces due to the thin portions made of synthetic resin materials, which lack sufficient durability and elasticity.
Innovation Solution
A switch device design featuring a casing with a recessed bearing portion, a rotatable drive member, and a covering member with an elastically deformable operating portion and base portion integrated through two-color molding, where the pressing structure is formed of an elastically deformable material to absorb forces and prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a thin portion made of synthetic resin material is used to absorb assembly variations and suppress play, then the operating lever moves smoothly, but the thin portion may be damaged when strong force acts on the operating lever or cover
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing structure integrates two different materials: an elastic material (such as rubber or resin) and a synthetic resin material. The elastic material portion provides durability and shock absorption when strong forces are applied, while the synthetic resin portion maintains structural integrity and suppresses play. This composite structure resolves the contradiction between smooth operation and strength by combining the advantages of both materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing structure has different local properties: the elastic material portion is designed to be deformable and resilient for withstanding strong forces, while the synthetic resin material portion is designed to be rigid for suppressing play. This local differentiation of material properties allows the single component to simultaneously achieve both smooth operation and high strength.
2Ease of manufacture
If the pressing structure is made of synthetic resin material to integrate with the base portion, then manufacturing is simplified, but the structure lacks sufficient elasticity to withstand strong forces
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing structure uses a composite of elastic material and synthetic resin material, where the elastic material provides the necessary elasticity and shock absorption capability to withstand strong forces, while the synthetic resin material ensures structural integrity and manufacturability through integration with the base portion. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between ease of manufacture and reliability.
3Measurement precision
If the operating portion is made of rigid material to provide precise operation, then operational accuracy is improved, but play and noise increase during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The operating portion is made of elastic material, which changes the physical parameters of the component from rigid to deformable. This elasticity allows the operating portion to absorb shocks and variations during operation, suppressing play and reducing noise while maintaining precise operational control. The elastic material deforms under load and returns to its original position, ensuring consistent operation without the harmful effects of rigidity.
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 design enhances durability by allowing the switch device to withstand strong forces without damage, provides a smooth operational experience by minimizing play, and ensures reliable operation with reduced noise and improved handling.
Implementation Method 1
an operating portion that faces the drive member such that the operating portion is able to press the drive member and that is formed of an elastically deformable elastic material
Implementation Method 2
The pressing structure is integrated with the base portion and formed of an elastically deformable elastic material
Data Source
AI summary
A switch device includes a casing that includes a recessed bearing portion, a rotatable drive member that includes a shaft portion disposed in the bearing portion, a switch driven by the drive member, and a covering member that includes a pressing structure provided so as to press an upper portion of the shaft portion and that is secured to the casing. The covering member includes an operating portion that faces the drive member such that the operating portion is able to press the drive member and that is formed of an elastically deformable elastic material and a base portion that is secured to the casing, that is formed of a synthetic resin material, and that is integrated with the operating portion. The pressing structure is integrated with the base portion and formed of an elastically deformable elastic material.