Switch Device Sealing with Integrated Dual-Stage Elastomeric Rings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Engine start control devices face the challenge of preventing both extraneous matter and steam from entering the main body, particularly when using steam cleaners for cleaning, as conventional labyrinthine structures with drain outlets are insufficient.
Innovation Solution
A switch device with a sealing portion that seals the gap between the operation button and the main body, utilizing a combination of a soft first seal and a harder second seal to effectively prevent the entry of extraneous matter and steam.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sealing portion is added to seal the gap between operation button and main body, then sealing properties are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing ring is integrated directly onto the operation button, merging the sealing function with the existing button structure. This combination approach provides effective sealing without adding separate complex sealing mechanisms, thus improving reliability while minimizing increases in device complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a tight seal is implemented to prevent steam entry, then steam prevention is improved, but ease of assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric sealing ring utilizes material property changes - specifically the elastic properties of elastomers - to achieve effective sealing. The material's inherent elasticity allows it to conform to surfaces and maintain sealing pressure without requiring complex assembly procedures or tight tolerances, thus preventing steam entry while maintaining ease of assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A switch device includes an operation button to be push-operated, and a sealing portion for sealing a gap between the operation button and an opening through which the operation button is inserted. The sealing portion may include a ring-shaped first seal that is in contact with the operation button and exhibits sealing properties, and a second seal that is harder than the first seal and is located on the outer side of the first seal. The first seal and the second seal may be integrated so as to form a frame of the sealing portion.