Switching Device Closure Cover Mechanism for Accidental Actuation Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switching devices for motor vehicles, such as emergency call switches, are complicated to actuate and have a complex structure, making unintentional actuation prevention and unlocking processes cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A pivotably mounted closure cover with limited height adjustment, a latching curve mechanism, and compression springs simplify the actuation and locking process, preventing accidental actuation while maintaining a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If latching cams and latching recesses are used to lock the actuating element, then unintentional actuation is prevented, but the actuation process becomes complicated and the structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The safety device is segmented into a closure cover that pivots between closed and open positions, with the actuating element separated from direct external access. The closure cover acts as an independent protective segment that must be deliberately opened before the actuating element can be pressed, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining reliable protection against unintentional actuation.
2Reliability
If latching cams and latching recesses are used to lock the actuating element, then unintentional actuation is prevented, but the actuation process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring the user to manipulate latching cams and recesses directly, the invention inverts the approach by using a closure cover that pivots to reveal or conceal the actuating element. The compression springs automatically maintain the cover in the closed position, and deliberate pressure on the cover against spring resistance opens it, making the operation intuitive and simple while reliably preventing accidental activation.
3Volume of moving object
If compression springs are used to prestress the frame, then the device becomes compact, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The compression springs serve multiple functions simultaneously: they prestress the height-adjustable frame to enable compact nesting of components, provide the force that automatically closes the closure cover, and contribute to the overall structural stability of the device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby maintaining compactness without significantly increasing structural complexity.
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 solution effectively prevents unintentional actuation, simplifies the unlocking process, and enhances the structural stability and compactness of the switching device, thereby increasing road safety.
Implementation Method 1
the closure cover is mounted on a height-adjustable frame in the housing, which is prestressed by compression springs counter to the direction in which the actuating element of the switch is acted upon
Implementation Method 2
the closure cover is prestressed in the direction of its open position by means of at least one helical spring
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~2a
Figure 3~3a
AI summary
The switching device has a housing (1), an actuating element (2) and a safety device (7) for preventing an unintentional impact of the actuating element. The actuating element is provided with a rotatably supported sealing cap whose rotational axis is supported in vertically adjustable manner opposite to the housing. The sealing cap covers the actuating element in a closed position.