Switch Mount Panel Ribs Eliminate Bezel Die Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch mounts for motor vehicles require a switch bezel, which can lead to die locking issues during manufacturing due to angled inner ribs, necessitating a solution that allows switch attachment without a bezel and prevents die locking.
Innovation Solution
A switch mount with a generally rigid panel featuring a first rib with a step to engage a switch barb and a second rib extending at an angle between 15 and 60 degrees to secure the switch, eliminating the need for a bezel and preventing die locking during manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a switch bezel is used to attach the switch to the panel, then the switch can be securely mounted, but an additional piece of equipment is required and die locking issues occur during manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the switch mounting function directly into the panel structure by integrating ribs with steps that engage the switch barbs. This eliminates the need for a separate switch bezel while maintaining secure mounting, directly resolving the contradiction between mounting security and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the die locking issue by redesigning the rib geometry to have steps that are parallel to the die direction rather than angled. This allows the panel to be molded without die locking problems while still providing secure switch engagement, resolving the contradiction between mounting security and manufacturing complexity
2Reliability
If inner ribs are die locked at an angle to provide switch engagement, then the switch can be secured, but die locking problems occur during panel manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the ribs by orienting the steps parallel to the die direction rather than at an angle. This parameter change allows the ribs to engage switch barbs effectively while eliminating die locking problems during injection molding, resolving the contradiction between engagement security and ease of manufacture
Data Source
AI summary
A panel for accepting a switch is disclosed, the panel having a generally rigid member with a front side and a back side. The generally rigid member also has a first edge and a second edge defining an aperture, through which the switch passes at least partially through. The back side of the rigid member has a first rib that extends therefrom, the first rib being proximate to the first edge and having a step that is operable to engage a barb of the switch that passes at least partially through the aperture. The back side also has a second rib that extends therefrom, the second rib being proximate to the second edge and also operable to engage a barb of the switch passing at least partially through the aperture.