Integrated Switch LED Circuit Board Space Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switches with integrated LEDs waste space, particularly in miniaturized electronic appliances where circuit board space is limited, as the LED is typically positioned separately from the switch.
Innovation Solution
A switch design where the LED is integrated inside the case, with pins connecting to electrical contacts that are shorted upon button press, allowing the LED to emit light without requiring additional space, enabling both power initiation and indication in a compact form.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the LED is disposed separately from the switch, then the LED can emit light to indicate power status, but the space required on the circuit board increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the LED and switch into a single integrated unit where the LED is disposed inside the switch case. The switch structure incorporates electrical contacts that connect to the LED terminals, allowing the LED to share the same mounting space as the switch. This merging eliminates the need for separate LED mounting area on the circuit board while maintaining both switching and indication functions.
2Area of stationary object
If the LED is integrated inside the switch case, then the space on the circuit board is reduced, but the electrical connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated switch-LED assembly uses segmented electrical contacts within the switch case that correspond to specific LED terminals. The switch structure is divided into contact regions that can be selectively connected to different LED terminals based on the switch position, simplifying the wiring scheme compared to a fully integrated design where all connections would be hardwired.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical contacts within the switch case serve multiple functions: they provide the switching connection for power control and simultaneously provide the electrical connection path for the LED indication. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate connection elements needed, as the same contact structure serves both switching and LED driving purposes.
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
This design saves space on the circuit board by integrating the LED within the switch, allowing for both functional operation and visual indication without extra space, making it suitable for miniaturized electronic products.
Implementation Method 1
The LED is disposed inside the case for emitting a light. The LED has a positive end and a negative end.
Data Source
AI summary
A switch with light emitting function is provided. The switch is disposed on a circuit board for starting a device, and includes a case, a button, a light emitting diode (LED) and a number of pins. The button is protruded from the case. The LED is disposed inside the case, and has a positive end and a negative end. The pins are connected to a first electrical contact, a second electrical contact, a third electrical contact and the negative end of the LED, respectively. The positive end of the LED is electrically connected to the fourth electrical contact. When the button is pressed, the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact are shorted to start the device. Meanwhile, the third electrical contact and the fourth electrical contact are shorted, so that the LED is turned on to emit a light. No extra space is needed for disposing the LED.