Switch Feel Measurement Calibration via Secondary Force Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for measuring the feel of switches, particularly rotary switches, lack a quantitative, objective, and repeatable approach, leading to inconsistent results due to improper alignment and insufficient force measurement, which affects the definition and verification of switch feel characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A method involving precise alignment of the switch axis with the measurement axis using secondary force feedback, where the switch is moved through a range of motion while measuring secondary forces perpendicular to the primary axis, and adjustments are made if these forces exceed predetermined limits to ensure accurate alignment and minimize errors in torque/angular displacement profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measurement methods are used with rough visual alignment, then the measurement process is simple and quick, but the measurement precision and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback control by measuring secondary forces during switch actuation and using this information to determine whether the measurement axis is properly aligned with the switch axis. The system provides feedback signals that indicate misalignment conditions, allowing for iterative adjustment until proper alignment is achieved, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces rough visual mechanical alignment with a sensor-based detection system that measures secondary forces. This substitution of mechanical alignment procedures with electronic sensing and computational analysis enables more precise alignment determination without requiring complex manual adjustment mechanisms.
2Measurement precision
If peak force measurement only is used, then the measurement device is simple, but the measurement completeness for defining switch feel is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary measurement of secondary forces during the alignment phase, before the actual switch feel measurement is conducted. This preliminary action ensures that the measurement system is properly configured and aligned, preventing the need for complex post-processing corrections and enabling complete switch feel characterization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends measurement from the primary actuation dimension to include secondary force dimensions. By measuring forces in multiple directions (primary actuation force and secondary orthogonal forces), the system achieves complete switch feel characterization, including detection of misalignment conditions that would not be apparent from primary force measurement alone.
3Reliability
If advanced force/displacement measurement is implemented, then the switch feel definition is more complete, but the alignment requirements become more stringent and difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses feedback from secondary force measurements to guide alignment adjustments. The system continuously monitors secondary forces and provides feedback signals that indicate whether alignment improvements are needed, making the alignment process systematic and easier to perform correctly despite stringent requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system performs self-diagnosis by detecting misalignment conditions through secondary force measurements. The system automatically identifies when alignment is improper and can guide its own adjustment, reducing the skill level required for proper setup and improving ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method may be employed to assure that a switch measurement system accurately measures a torque/angular displacement profile for a rotary switch. A procedure may be employed that aligns the rotational axis of the switch with the rotational axis of the measurement unit of the switch measurement system. Also a procedure may be employed that monitors secondary forces to assure that proper alignment and calibration has been achieved.