Touch-Force Rocker Switch With Sealed Multi-Input Surface
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Consumer electronic devices often require multiple input components, which can be cumbersome and complex, necessitating a simpler and more aesthetically pleasing solution for accepting various types of inputs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of touch and force sensitive rocker switches with a sensor array and a cosmetic surface that covers the button and housing, allowing for multiple types of inputs, including touch and force inputs, and providing a seal to make the device waterproof.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different input components are used in electronic devices, then various types of inputs can be received, but the device becomes more complex and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single rocker switch component that performs multiple input functions including touch sensing, force sensing, and directional input detection. The sensor array within the rocker switch can detect different types of user interactions (light touches, firm presses, swiping motions) and translate them into various input signals, allowing one component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate buttons or input devices.
2Shape
If a cosmetic surface covers the entire sensor array and housing, then aesthetics are improved and sealing is enhanced, but the button structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cosmetic surface and the seal into a single integrated component that covers the sensor array and housing. This unified cosmetic surface acts as both the aesthetic cover and the sealing element, eliminating the need for separate cosmetic covers and gaskets. The flexure region is incorporated directly into this merged structure, allowing button movement while maintaining the seal integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cosmetic surface includes a flexure region that functions as a flexible membrane, allowing it to deform elastically in response to button pressing while maintaining its sealing function. This flexible region enables the cosmetic surface to accommodate the mechanical movement of the button without compromising the seal or requiring complex mechanical linkages.
3Ease of operation
If the cosmetic surface includes a flexure region to permit button movement, then button functionality is maintained, but the sealing integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The flexure region is designed as an elastic membrane within the cosmetic surface that can deform reversibly under applied force. When the button is pressed, the flexure region bends to accommodate the movement, then returns to its original position, maintaining the seal throughout the motion cycle. The elastic properties of this flexible region ensure that no permanent deformation or gap formation occurs that would compromise water resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexure region acts as a pre-designed compliant element that anticipates and accommodates the mechanical stress of button pressing. By incorporating this elastic cushioning region in advance, the design prevents stress concentration and potential seal failure that would occur in a rigid structure, ensuring reliable sealing even during repeated button operations.
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 solution simplifies input mechanisms, reduces device complexity, and enhances aesthetics by integrating multiple input functions into a single button, while ensuring the device remains functional and water-resistant.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor array having first and second sensors that sense first and second inputs
Implementation Method 2
The first and second input sensors sense the first and second inputs through the cosmetic surface
Data Source
AI summary
A touch and force sensitive rocker switch or button array for a portable electronic device can include multiple dome switches or force sensors, as well as a capacitive sensing surface that can detect finger location and swipes. A cosmetic surface can cover the entire elongated switch/button and portions of device housing proximate the button, and can be configured to transfer each of multiple types of input there through to the button and also provide a seal to the device housing interior. The cosmetic surface can be a flexible polymer to allow local deformation, and/or the entire surface can tilt or bend to permit inputs to transfer there through. The elongated button/switch can be raised from a surface of the device, and can be located along a side of the device, with a front face of the device being a touchscreen, such as for a smart phone or watch.