Tail Switch Actuator for Multi-Direction Light Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lights, particularly those mounted to firearms, often require actuation in specific directions, such as transverse or longitudinal, but not both, and external switch connectors are prone to damage and dislodgment.
Innovation Solution
A light with a tail cap actuator that can be pressed forwardly, transversely, or at angles in between, and a recessed connector protected from physical disturbance, allowing for versatile actuation and secure connection of a remote switch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the switch actuator is configured for specific directional actuation (transverse or longitudinal), then the switch can be reliably actuated in that direction, but it cannot accommodate actuation in multiple directions
Solution Approach 1:
The switch actuator is designed with a flexible boot that can be pressed in multiple directions (forwardly, transversely, or at angles in between), allowing the actuation mechanism to adapt dynamically to different pressing directions while reliably actuating the electrical switch regardless of the specific direction applied
2Ease of operation
If the connector is exposed on the rear surface for remote switch connection, then remote switch functionality is achieved, but the connector is vulnerable to physical dislodgment and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is recessed into the rear surface of the light body, creating a nested structure where the connector is housed within a protective cavity. This recessed configuration allows remote switch connection functionality while protecting the connector from physical dislodgment and damage by shielding it within the light's structure
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 2A
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A switch (50) for a light (10) may comprise: an electrical switch (150) actuatable in a direction transverse to the electrical switch (150); and a switch actuator including a plunger (56) movable pivotably for actuating and de-actuating the electrical switch (150). A flexible boot (52) may move the plunger (56) toward the electrical switch (150) when the flexible boot is pressed. The electrical switch (150) is actuated when the flexible boot (52) is pressed toward the electrical switch (150) or at an angle therebetween. The switch (50) maybe adjacent a reference plane surface in a light body (20) of the light (10).