Waterproofing Ring for Rotary Knob Manipulation Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing manipulation devices with waterproof functions are complex, generate excessive rotational resistance, and fail to effectively handle pivoting operations, making them difficult to operate and bulky.

Innovation Solution

A multifunction manipulation device featuring a rotary knob, button, and a waterproofing ring that rotates with the rotary knob, providing a simple and inexpensive configuration for waterproofing while allowing easy operation and reduced rotational resistance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If an anti-drip member is installed to waterproof the gap between the rotary dial and push button knob, then waterproofing function is improved, but the structure becomes complicated and rotational resistance increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproofing functionVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the waterproofing function with the rotary dial structure by integrating the anti-drip member as a groove on the rotary dial itself rather than as a separate component. This eliminates the need for additional anti-drip members and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining waterproofing effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The rotary dial is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the rotary operation interface and the waterproofing structure through its integrated groove design. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If an anti-drip member is installed to waterproof the gap between the rotary dial and push button knob, then waterproofing function is improved, but rotational resistance increases causing parts to wear out

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproofing functionVSAvoidrotational resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The waterproofing structure is merged into the rotary dial itself through an integrated groove, eliminating the need for separate anti-drip members that would create friction. This reduces rotational resistance and prevents wear on moving parts while maintaining effective waterproofing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If a bellows mechanism is provided to waterproof the joystick, then waterproofing function is improved, but the device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproofing functionVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The waterproofing function is merged into the existing manipulation device structure through integrated grooves on the rotary dial and button, eliminating the need for separate bellows mechanisms. This maintains compact device dimensions while achieving effective waterproofing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses thin groove structures formed on the rotary dial and button surfaces to provide waterproofing without adding significant volume. These thin-film-like grooves effectively seal gaps without requiring bulky bellows mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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 device achieves effective waterproofing with reduced operational force and ease of use, enabling both rotary and non-rotary operations while maintaining compactness.

Implementation Method 1

The waterproofing ring rotates with the rotary knob, and is held in contact with the button and the rotary knob

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS10153107B2Manipulation device
Publication Date: 2018.12.11 FURUNO ELECTRIC CO LTD
  • US10153107B2 patent drawing
  • US10153107B2 patent drawing
  • US10153107B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A manipulation device includes a rotary knob, a button and a waterproofing ring. The rotary knob rotatable about a rotational axis. The button having a center axis on the rotational axis of the rotary knob. The waterproofing ring that waterproofs a gap between the rotary knob and the button. The waterproofing ring rotating with the rotary knob, and the waterproofing ring being held in contact with the button and the rotary knob.