Transparent Plate with Periodic Reliefs for Electrical Switchgear
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing terminal-type electrical equipment faces challenges in achieving visual homogeneity and preventing fingerprints on non-metallic surfaces, while maintaining a metallic-like appearance and compatibility with various color schemes and decorative environments.
Innovation Solution
A control device featuring a transparent plate with periodic reliefs on its inner face, covered by an opaque sheet, which provides a metallic-like appearance and reduces fingerprint visibility through multiple reflections, and can be combined with various frames and color schemes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a flat, even and smooth plate is used for the central part, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but fingerprints become highly visible and maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The plate surface is given different local qualities: the outer face remains smooth for aesthetic purposes, while the inner face incorporates periodic reliefs that create light scattering effects to mask fingerprints. This local differentiation allows the plate to simultaneously achieve visual appeal and fingerprint concealment without compromising either property.
2Shape
If a metallic coating is applied to achieve a metallic-like appearance, then the aesthetic appeal is improved, but capacitive sensor sensitivity is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The periodic reliefs on the inner face of the plate act as an intermediary structure between the capacitive sensor and the external environment. These reliefs create optical effects that simulate metallic appearance through light scattering and reflection, while maintaining electrical isolation that preserves capacitive sensor sensitivity. The relief structure mediates between aesthetic requirements and sensor functionality.
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 achieves visual neutrality and compatibility with diverse color schemes, while effectively concealing fingerprints and maintaining sensitivity for capacitive sensors, enhancing aesthetic appeal and usability.
Implementation Method 1
which provides a metallic-like appearance and reduces fingerprint visibility through multiple reflections
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The device (10) has an electric component (13) that is partially covered by a transparent plate (16). The plate has an external face (16a) that is smoothened, and an internal face. A frame (11) defines a central part (19), where the frame is equipped with a support (12) maintaining the electric component in the central part. A repetition of periodic relief (16b) is provided on the internal face of the plate. An opaque sheet (15) and a transparent plate are equipped with recesses (17, 18), respectively.