Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10, Rule 13]

A SWITCH MODULE

NAPINO AUTO & ELECTRONICS LTD., an Indian Company of Sector 3, Plot No. 7, IMT Manesar, Distt-Gurgaon – 122050, Haryana, India

THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
[001] The present invention relates to a switch module. In particular, the present invention relates to a switch module of a vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[002] In the dynamic evolution of mechanical and electrical systems, the introduction of switches marked a paradigm shift in user interface technology. Switches became the linchpin for controlling an array of devices, offering users the ability to seamlessly interact with electronic systems. However, this leap in convenience was accompanied by a set of drawbacks, with one of the notable challenges being the emergence of extra free play and wobble during operation.

[003] The genesis of this undesired movement can be traced to the intricate design of the switch, specifically within the knob mechanism. To enhance user experience and haptic feedback, designers integrated a pusher profile within the knob mechanism. This pusher profile served as the crucial link between the user's input force and the internal components of the switch, translating physical actions into electrical responses with a nuanced touch.

[004] The consequences of extra free play and wobble in switches were far-reaching. In applications where precision was paramount, such as in critical control systems or high-performance electronic devices, the compromised functionality posed significant challenges. Users experienced a diminished sense of control, and in situations requiring accuracy, the repercussions were pronounced.

[005] Manufacturers and designers found themselves at a crossroads, recognizing the need to rectify the inherent flaws within the switch design. Efforts were undertaken to refine the pusher profile, aiming to mitigate the unintended deflection while preserving the haptic feedback that users valued. Balancing the quest for enhanced user experience with the imperative of maintaining operational stability became a focal point in the ongoing journey to address the challenges posed by extra free play and wobble in switch mechanisms. The evolution of switch technology mirrored a continuous pursuit of perfection, as innovators sought to strike an optimal equilibrium in the intricate dance between precision and user satisfaction.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

[006] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features.

[007] In one aspect of the invention, there is provided a switch module that comprises a housing member accommodating a first switching element, a first knob that is adapted to exhibit to-and-fro movement with respect to the housing member, the first knob comprising a first switch actuating member formed on a first underside of the first knob for actuating the first switch element and a knob guider comprising a first through opening, the first switch actuating member traversing through the first through opening and actuating the first switching element, a first lateral wall inner surface of the first knob comprising a first protrusion and the knob guider comprises a first channel, the first channel receiving the first protrusion and restricting a lateral movement of the first knob with respect to the housing member.

[008] In an embodiment of the invention, the first protrusion comprises a first portion protruding from the first lateral wall inner surface towards knob guider and a first arcuate portion received by the first channel.

[009] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the knob guider comprises a first pillar structure comprising the first through opening and the first channel.

[0010] In still another embodiment of the invention, the first through opening being formed at about a centre of the first pillar structure and the first channel is formed on a first peripheral wall of the first pillar structure.

[0011] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first switching element being disposed on a printed circuit board; and the first switching element is encased at least partly by a membrane, the membrane prohibiting foreign contaminants from setting the first switching element.

[0012] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the knob guider forms part of the housing member or is releasably attached to the housing member.

[0013] In still another embodiment of the invention, the housing member further accommodates at least a second switching element.

[0014] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the switch module comprises at least a second knob adapted to exhibit to-and-fro movement with respect to the housing member, the second knob comprising a second switch actuating member formed on a second underside of the second knob for actuating the second switch element, the knob guider comprises a second through opening, the second switch actuating member traversing through the second through opening and actuating the second switching element, a second lateral wall inner surface of the second knob comprising a second protrusion and the knob guider comprises a second channel, the second channel receiving the second protrusion and restricting a lateral movement of the second knob with respect to the housing member.

[0015] In another embodiment of the invention, the second protrusion comprises a second portion protruding from the second lateral wall inner surface towards knob guider and a second arcuate portion received by the second channel.

[0016] In yet an embodiment of the invention, the second through opening formed at about a centre of a second pillar structure and at least one of: the second channel being formed on a first peripheral wall of the first pillar structure and the second channel being formed on a second peripheral wall of the second pillar structure.

[0017] One of the advantages of the invention is that the load is divided into pusher and guider profile in comparison to existing design where knob operating load completely remains at pusher profile that cause durability issue.

[0018] Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a substantial reduction of extra wobbling and free play within the pusher profile

[0019] Yet an advantage of the present invention is the significant enhancement that directly addresses a common drawback in switch systems.

[0020] Still an advantage of the invention is effective reduction of wobbling ensures a more stable and controlled movement of the pusher profile during operation.

[0021] Another advantage of the present invention is not only contribution in a smoother user experience but also prevents unintended and imprecise actions that could occur due to excess play.

[0022] To further clarify the advantages and features of the invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES:
[0023] In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments as illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views. The figures together with a detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate the embodiments and explain various principles and advantages, in accordance with the present invention where:

[0024] Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of the switch module in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0025] Figure 2 illustrates a first knob in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0026] Figure 3 illustrates an enlarged view of the first knob in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0027] Figure 4 illustrates a knob guider in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0028] Figure 5 illustrates an enlarged view of a second knob in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

[0029] Figure 6 illustrates a knob guider in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0030] It may be noted that to the extent possible, like reference numerals have been used to represent like elements in the drawings. Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, one or more elements may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:
[0031] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[0032] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0033] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0034] Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0035] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

[0036] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the terms "coupled to", “connected to”, “operably connected to”, and “operatively connected to” are intended to include both direct connection / coupling (in which two elements that are coupled / connected to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling / connection (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously. Similarly, the terms “connected to” and “connected with” are used synonymously.

[0037] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The device, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0038] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as being essential to the practice of the invention.

[0039] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[0040] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of the switch module (100) that explains in detail the various components of the switch module and their interconnections. The switch module (100) comprises a housing member (102) accommodating at least one switching element (104). The illustrated figure depicts the housing member with seven switching elements. The housing member further accommodates at least one knob (106). In particular, the number of knobs corresponds to the number of switching elements and hence if the switch module (100) comprises seven switching elements (104) then the switch module would have seven knobs (106). i.e. each knob corresponds to each switching elements (104).

[0042] In an embodiment of the invention the housing member may be of an undefined caste structure or may be composed of two or more parts for instance, when the housing member is composed of two or more parts, the housing member comprises a container (1021) and a lid (1022), with in which the at least one switching element is being placed. Additionally, the housing comprises one or more decorative element i.e. bezel (1023). The bezel may be attached to the container and generally would be visible to in an external view of the switching module (100).

[0043] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one knob (106) on the other hand traverses from a location outside of the housing to the internal portion of the housing. The switching elements (104) are further incorporated on a printed circuit board (132). A membrane (134) protects the printed circuit board (132) from any kinds of foreign particles such that, the first switching element (1041) is being protected because the printed circuit board (PCB) (132) contains electronic circuitry that is necessary for the functioning of the switching element (104). In between the container (1021) and the membrane (134) a knob guider (112) is being placed. The switching element (104) transmits the signals/commands through a bundle of wires (144) which are connected through a connector (138), to facilitate the connection between internal and external components. The switch module (100) comprises a grommet (136) that serves as a protective and insulating element and a flap cover (140) that serves as an additional protective layer for the printed circuit board (132). Further, a mounting screw (142) secures the flap cover and the lid in place.

[0044] In an embodiment of the invention, the housing member (102), the switching elements (104), the knobs (106), the knob guider (112) and the other essential parts as explained above in Figure 1 work together to enable the switch module (100) proper functioning. Each component serves a specific purpose, and their precise arrangement ensures the seamless operation of the switch module. The interconnection of the knobs to the housing member and, subsequently, to the bundle of wires through a connector highlights the user interface aspect, demonstrating how user inputs are transmitted to the internal circuitry for effective control and operation of the switch.

[0045] Figure 2 illustrated a first knob (1061). The first knob (1061) being adapted to exhibit a to-and-fro movement with respect to the housing member (102). The first knob (1061) comprises a first switch actuating member (1081) that is formed on a first underside (1101) of the first knob (1061) for actuating the first switch element (1041). However, the knob guider (112) comprising a first through opening (1141) and a first channel (1201). Wherein the first switch actuating member (1081) traverses through the first through opening (1141) and actuate the first switching element (1041). The first knob (1061) has a first lateral wall inner surface (1161) comprises a first protrusion (1181). The first protrusion (1181) is received by the first channel (1201) to restrict the lateral movement of the first knob (1061) with respect to the housing member (102).

[0046] Figure 3 illustrates an enlarged view of the first knob (1061). The first protrusion (1181) has a first portion (1221) and a first arcuate portion (1241). The first portion (1221) is protruding from the first lateral wall inner surface (1161) towards the knob guider (112) and the first arcuate portion (1241) is received by the first channel (1201). The first portion's (1221) extension towards the knob guider (112) emphasizes its role in guiding the knob's (106) movement, while the arcuate portion's (124) presence in the channel indicates a carefully designed structure for alignment and interaction.

[0047] Point / Line Contact of knob with Guider during to and fro motion which restrict the friction to a very low value between Knob and guider part and product will provide better feel during operation.

[0048] Figure 2 and Figure 3 explained the strategic interaction of the first protrusion (1181). The first protrusion (1181) received by the first channel (1201) within the knob guider (112) to restrict the free play movement and wobbling of the first knob (1061). The synchronized movement of the first protrusion (1181) and the first channel (1201) within the knob guider (112) ensures that the knob's (106) motion is controlled and constrained, thereby enhancing the overall stability and precision of the switch operation. This meticulous design demonstrates a thoughtful approach to mitigating potential drawbacks, leading to a more reliable and controlled user experience.

[0049] Figure 4 illustrates the knob guider (112) for first knob (1061). A first pillar structure (1261) comprises the knob guider (112) having the first through opening (1141) and the first channel (1201) as discussed above in Figure 3. The first through opening (1141) is formed at about a centre (1281) of the first pillar structure (1261). On the first pillar structure (1261) a first pillar wall (1301) is formed, through the first pillar wall (1301), a first channel (1201) is formed to receive the first protrusion (1181) and restricts the free play movement and wobbling of the first knob (1061). This opening likely serves as a central point for the knob's movement, providing a guiding mechanism. The first through opening (1141) plays a pivotal role in ensuring a stable and well-defined axis for the knob (106) within the switch assembly.

[0050] Furthermore, the first channel (1201) within the knob guider (112) is formed on a first peripheral wall (1301) of the first pillar structure (1261). The first pillar structure (1261) channel corresponds with the first channel (1201) described in Figure 2, suggesting a coordinated design between the knob (106) and the knob guider (112). The channel (120) serves as a path for the first arcuate portion (1241) of the first protrusion (1181) from the knob (as explained in Figure 3), emphasizing the precision required for the knob's (106) movement.

[0051] Referring to Figure 5, there is illustrated a second knob (1062). The second knob (1062) is also adapted to exhibit a to-and-fro movement with respect to the housing member (102). The second knob (1062) comprises a second switch actuating member (1082) that is formed on a second underside (1102) of the second knob (1062) for actuating the second switch element (1042). However, the knob guider (112) comprising a second through opening (1142) and a second channel (1202). Wherein the second switch actuating member (1082) traverses through that second through opening (1142) and actuate the second switching element (1042). The second knob (1062) has a second lateral wall inner surface (1162) that further comprising a second protrusion (1182). However, the second channel (1202) receives the second protrusion (1182) and restricting a lateral movement of the second knob (1062) with respect to the housing member (102). The second protrusion (1182) has a second portion (1222) and a second arcuate portion (1242). The second portion (1222) is protruding from the second lateral wall inner surface (1162) towards the knob guider (112) and the second arcuate portion (1242) is received by the second channel (1202). The second portion's (1222) extension towards the knob guider (112) emphasizes its role in guiding the knob's (106) movement, while the arcuate portion's (124) presence in the channel indicates a carefully designed structure for alignment and interaction.

[0052] Figure 6 illustrates the knob guider (112) for the second knob (1062). The knob guider (112) comprises a second pillar structure (1262). Figure 6 illustrates the formation of a second through opening (1142) at about a centre (1281) of the second pillar structure (1262), wherein the second channel (1202) is formed on the first pillar wall (1301) of the first pillar structure (1261). The second channel (1202) then receives the second protrusion (1182) to restrict the free play movement and wobbling of the second knob (1062). This opening likely serves as a central point for the second knob (1062) movement, providing a guiding mechanism. The second through opening (1142) plays a pivotal role in ensuring a stable and well-defined axis for the knob (106) within the switch assembly.

[0053] In another embodiment of the invention, the second channel (1202) within the knob guider, formed on a second peripheral wall (1302) of the second pillar structure (1262). This channel corresponds with the second channel (1202) as illustrated in Figure 6, suggesting a coordinated design between the knob (106) and the knob guider (112). The channel (120) serves as a path for the second arcuate portion (1242) of the second protrusion (1182) from the knob, emphasizing the precision required for the knob's (106) movement.

[0054] In another embodiment of the invention, a first knob (1061) and a second knob (1062) are placed among the bezel (102) and the container (1021). A first switching element (1041) and a second switching element (1042) are placed among the container (1021) and the lid (1022).

[0055] In another embodiment of the invention, wherein the second channel (1202) is formed on the second pillar wall (1302) of the second pillar structure (1262).

[0056] One of the advantages of the invention is that the load is divided into pusher and guider profile in comparison to existing design where knob operating load completely remains at pusher profile that cause durability issue.

[0057] Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a substantial reduction of extra wobbling and free play within the pusher profile

[0058] Yet an advantage of the present invention is the significant enhancement that directly addresses a common drawback in switch systems.

[0059] Still an advantage of the invention is effective reduction of wobbling ensures a more stable and controlled movement of the pusher profile during operation.

[0060] Another advantage of the present invention is not only contribution in a smoother user experience but also prevents unintended and imprecise actions that could occur due to excess play.

[0061] Furthermore, the invention delivers an additional advantage by providing an improved rigidity and stability to the pusher profile. The inherent stability introduced through the innovative design modification fortifies the structural integrity of the pusher profile. This increased rigidity is paramount in ensuring the reliability and longevity of the switch system. It prevents unnecessary flexing or deformation, resulting in a more robust and durable switch that can withstand the rigors of regular operation over an extended period.

[0062] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

[0063] The figures and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:

1. A switch module (100), comprising:
a housing member (102) accommodating a first switching element (1041);
a first knob (1061) adapted to exhibit to-and-fro movement with respect to the housing member (102), the first knob (1061) comprising a first switch actuating member (1081) formed on a first underside (1101) of the first knob (1061) for actuating the first switch element (1041); and
a knob guider (112) comprising a first through opening (1141), the first switch actuating member (1081) traversing through the first through opening (1141) and actuating the first switching element (1041);
a first lateral wall inner surface (1161) of the first knob (1061) comprising a first protrusion (1181) and the knob guider (112) comprises a first channel (1201), the first channel (1201) receiving the first protrusion (1181) and restricting a lateral movement of the first knob (1061) with respect to the housing member (102).

2. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first protrusion (1181) comprises a first portion (1221) protruding from the first lateral wall inner surface(1161) towards knob guider (112) and a first arcuate portion (1241) received by the first channel (1201).

3. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the knob guider (112) comprises a first pillar structure (1261) comprising the first through opening (1141) and the first channel (1201).

4. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first through opening (1141) being formed at about a centre (1281) of the first pillar structure (1261) and the first channel (1201) is formed on a first peripheral wall (1301) of the first pillar structure (1261).

5. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of:
the first switching element (1041) being disposed on a printed circuit board (132); and
the first switching element (1041) being encased at least partly by a membrane (134), the membrane (134) prohibiting foreign contaminants from setting the first switching element (1041).

6. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the knob guider (112) forms part of the housing member (102) or is releasably attached to the housing member (102).

7. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing member (102) further accommodates at least a second switching element (1042).

8. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein if the housing comprises at least a second switching element (1042), the switch (100) comprises:
at least a second knob (1062) adapted to exhibit to-and-fro movement with respect to the housing member (102), the second knob (1062) comprising a second switch actuating member (1082) formed on a second underside (1102) of the second knob (1062) for actuating the second switch element (1042);
the knob guider (112) comprises a second through opening (1142), the second switch actuating member (1082) traversing through the second through opening (1142) and actuating the second switching element (1042);
a second lateral wall inner surface (1162) of the second knob (1062) comprising a second protrusion (1182) and the knob guider (112) comprises a second channel (1202), the second channel (1202) receiving the second protrusion (1182) and restricting a lateral movement of the second knob (1062) with respect to the housing member (102).

9. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the second protrusion (1182) comprises a second portion (1222) protruding from the second lateral wall inner surface (1162) towards knob guider (112) and a second arcuate portion (1242) received by the second channel (1202).

10. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the second through opening (1142) formed at about a centre (1281) of a second pillar structure (1262) and at least one of:
the second channel (1202) being formed on a first peripheral wall (1301) of the first pillar structure (1261); and
the second channel (1202) being formed on a second peripheral wall (1302) of the second pillar structure (1262).