Vibrating Switch Module Structure for Even Haptic Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switch surfaces experience uneven vibration, leading to uncomfortable feelings during manipulation due to the difficulty in evenly vibrating the independent area, which is exacerbated by the placement of actuators along the edges of the rectangular independent area.
Innovation Solution
A switch module with a stationary member and a movable member separated by a gap, featuring a vibration element between them, allowing for even vibration of the manipulation surface by positioning the actuator on the holder and using dampers and spacers to stabilize the vibration, preventing it from transmitting to the panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If actuators are placed along the edges of the rectangular independent area, then the device structure is simplified and easier to manufacture, but the vibration becomes uneven leading to uncomfortable feelings during manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
A holder is introduced as an intermediary component to support the actuator. The holder has a specific shape that allows it to contact and support the independent area at multiple points (including corners and edge centers), enabling the actuator to evenly vibrate the manipulation surface while maintaining simple edge placement for manufacturing ease.
2Device complexity
If the movable member is placed close to the panel, then the device structure is compact, but the vibration transmits to the panel causing abnormal sounds and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
A gap is introduced as an intermediary space between the movable member (independent area) and the panel. This gap prevents direct contact and vibration transmission to the panel, eliminating abnormal sounds and discomfort while allowing the device to maintain a compact structure with the movable member positioned close to the panel.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If dampers are added to suppress vibration transmission, then vibration control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful function of the panel (transmitting vibration) is extracted by creating a gap that separates the movable member from the panel. This eliminates the need for additional dampers or vibration suppression components, controlling vibration transmission without increasing device 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 ensures even vibration of the manipulation surface, reducing uncomfortable feelings and abnormal sounds, while maintaining the structural integrity and functionality of the switch module.
Implementation Method 1
a vibration element disposed between the stationary member and the movable member, the vibration element vibrating the movable member
Implementation Method 2
the manipulation surface being exposed from the opening; and a vibration element disposed between the stationary member and the movable member, the vibration element vibrating the movable member
Data Source
AI summary
A switch to be attached to a panel having an opening in a surface includes: a stationary member to be attached to the panel; a movable member to be placed at a distance from the panel, the movable member having a manipulation surface separated from the panel in the opening with a gap intervening between the manipulation surface and the panel, the manipulation surface being exposed from the opening; and a vibration element disposed between the stationary member and the movable member, the vibration element vibrating the movable member.