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] Generally, vehicles are provided with control switches/buttons for smooth operation, safe driving, and for giving an indication to other riders while driving. Conventionally, these functions are governed by control buttons mounted on the instrument cluster. When a user actuates a control button, a plunger moves towards the terminals/PCB of the switch mechanism to actuate the switch. When the user releases the actuating force from the control button, the plunger moves to the un-actuated position, and the contact between breaks. Generally, the switch assembly is accommodated in a switch housing from the bottom side and epoxy potting may be employed to prevent water from entering the switch.

[003] In the existing switch module, epoxy and many other sealants, adhesives, are used to cover the PCB and other electronic components i.e. tact switch and semiconductor. Thus, the problem arise is that a certain amount of time is required for drying the epoxy and if an immediate cured adhesive is used then there will be a viscosity issue and causes a problem in flow of epoxy. Furthermore, the cost of the epoxy is high. Also, if proper drying of epoxy is not done, in that case water can enter into electronics compartment.

[004] Additionally, a further issue faced by conventional switch modules is susceptibility to environmental contaminants such as dust particles and moisture. In various operating environments, including industrial settings, outdoor applications, and even indoor spaces, dust and moisture can infiltrate switch modules, compromising the integrity of internal electronic components. Dust accumulation can obstruct moving parts, degrade electrical connections, and lead to malfunctions or failures over time. Moisture ingress can cause corrosion of sensitive electronic elements, resulting in performance degradation or complete malfunction of the switch module.

[005] Therefore, there is a need to introduced a switch module that can overcome one or more limitations stated above or any other limitations associated with the prior art.

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 comprises a housing member cooperating with a back cover to define an internal space, a printed circuit board (PCB) accommodated in the internal space, the PCB comprising at least one switching element, at least one knob element adapted to exhibit to-and-fro movement with respect to the PCB and actuating the at least one switching element, a rubber element comprising a first segment and a second segment, the first segment surrounding a first side of the PCB, the second segment extending partly over a second side of the PCB, the first side of the PCB facing the housing, and the second side of the PCB being opposite to the first side of the PCB and the back cover comprises a first hill portion, a second hill portion distinct from the first hill portion, and a first valley portion positioned between the first hill portion and second hill portion, the first hill portion and the second hill portion coming in constricting relation with the second segment of the rubber element.

[008] In an embodiment of the invention, the first hill portion, the second hill portion, and the first valley portion form part of a first wall projecting from a topside of the back cover and towards the PCB.

[009] In yet another embodiment of the invention, a knob guider member positioned above the PCB for guiding the to-and-fro movement of the at least one knob element, the knob guider member forming part of the housing member or being releasably attached to the housing.

[0010] In still another embodiment of the invention, at least one of the housing member and the knob guider member comprises a second wall projecting from an underside thereof, the second wall coming in constricting relation with the first segment of the rubber element.

[0011] In a further embodiment of the invention, an underside of the knob element comprises a switching actuating member and the knob guider comprises at least one through opening, the switching actuating member traversing through the at least one through opening and actuating the at least one switching element, the knob guider comprising a first movement restricting member and the knob element comprising a second movement restricting member, the first movement restricting member and the second movement restricting member co-operating with each other to restrict a lateral movement of the knob element with respect to the housing.

[0012] In yet another embodiment of the invention, at least one of: the first side of the PCB comprises plurality of conductive tracks electrically separated from one another, the plurality of conducting tracks adapted to function as fixed contact portions of the at least one switching element, and the first segment of the rubber element comprises an electrical shorting member that shorts the plurality of conductive tracks in response to the at least one knob element exhibiting movement towards the PCB; the first side of the PCB comprises at least one metal dome switch functioning as the at least one switching element; the first side of the PCB comprises and the first side of the PCB comprises at least one tact switch functioning as the at least one switching element.

[0013] In still another embodiment of the invention, the housing being further adapted to receive a decorative member, the decorative member being attached to an external surface of the housing member, the decorative member allowing the at least one knob element to exhibit to-and-fro movement with respect to the PCB.

[0014] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the PCB comprising at least two switching elements, there being at least two knob elements adapted to exhibit to-and-fro movement with respect to the PCB and actuating the at least two switching elements, and the knob guider member guiding the to-and-fro movement of the at least two knob elements.

[0015] In another embodiment of the invention, the at least two switching elements are of at least two different construction types.

[0016] One of the advantages of the invention is to provide a protective barrier to the printed circuit board (PCB) by providing a rubber element that facilitates the maintenance of the integrity and functionality of the internal electronic components even in harsh or dusty environments.

[0017] Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a reduces downtime, process and maintenance costs associated with keeping the switch module operational, making it a cost-effective solution for long-term use.

[0018] Still an advantage of the invention is that no need of putting product into oven for epoxy drying and maintaining the primary and secondary aesthetic of product.

[0019] Yet an advantage of the present invention is to provide an interaction between the rubber element and the back cover's first hill, second hill, and valley portions may contribute to additional stability and sealing when the switch module is assembled

[0020] 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:
[0021] 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:

[0022] Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of the switch module in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0023] Figure 2A illustrates a configuration of PCB and a rubber element in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0024] Figure 2B illustrates a top view of the rubber element covering the PCB in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0025] Figure 2C illustrates a bottom view of the rubber element covering the PCB in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0026] Figure 3 illustrates a sectional enlarged view of the switch module specifically the back cover in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0027] Figure 4 illustrates a sectional view of a switch module in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0028] Figure 5 illustrates a knob guider in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.; and

[0029] Figure 6 illustrates an enlarged view of a knob element 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). The housing member (102) cooperates with the back cover (104) to enclose an internal space (106) where the components are housed. The switch module (100) comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) (108) accommodated in the internal space (106). The PCB (108) comprising at least one switching element (110). The housing member (102) accommodates the at least one switching element (110). The switch module (100) further comprises at least one knob element (112) which is adapted to exhibit to-and-fro movement with respect to the PCB (108) and actuating the at least one switching element (110). In particular, the number of knobs corresponds to the number of switching elements and hence if the switch module (100) comprises seven switching elements (110) then the switch module (100) would have seven knobs element (112). i.e. each knob corresponds to each switching elements (110).

[0042] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one knob element (112) on the other hand traverses from a location outside of the housing member (102) to the internal portion of the housing member (102). A rubber element (114) protects the printed circuit board (132) from any kinds of foreign particles such that, the switching element (110) is being protected because the printed circuit board (PCB) (108) contains electronic circuitry that is necessary for the functioning of the switching element (110).

[0043] However, the knob guider member (134) is positioned above the PCB (108) for guiding the to-and-fro movement of the at least one knob element (112) as discussed in the knob guider member (134) forming part of the housing member (102) or being releasably attached to the housing (102). On the printed circuit board (108) the switching elements (110) are incorporated. The switching element (110) transmits the signals/commands through a bundle of wires (158) which are connected through a connector (156), to facilitate the connection between internal and external components. The switch module (100) comprises a grommet (164) that serves as a protective and insulating element and a flap cover (160) that serves as an additional protective layer for the printed circuit board (108). Further, a mounting screw (162) secures the flap cover (160) and the back cover (104) in place.

[0044] In an embodiment of the invention, the PCB is covered with a rubber element (114) comprises a first segment (116) and a second segment (118). Wherein, the first segment (116) surrounding a first side (120) of the PCB (108) and the second segment (118) is extending partly over a second side (122) of the PCB. The first side (120) of the PCB (108) is facing the housing (102) and the second side (122) of the PCB (108) is being opposite to the first side (120) of the PCB (108).

[0045] Additionally, the switch module (100) comprises one or more decorative element i.e. bezel (154). The bezel may be attached to the housing member (102) and generally would be visible to in an external view of the switching module (100).

[0046] Further, Figure 2A, 2B and 2C explains the configuration of Rubber element and the PCB from a top view and the bottom view. The rubber element (114) comprising a first segment (116) and a second segment (118) and the PCB (108) comprises a first side (120) and a second side (122). The first segment (116) surrounds the first side (120) of the PCB (108), the second segment (118) extending partly over the second side (122) of the PCB. The first side (120) of the PCB (108) is facing the housing (102) and the second side (122) of the PCB (108) is being opposite to the first side (120) of the PCB (108).

[0047] In an embodiment of the invention, the first segment (116) of the rubber element (114) serves as a buffer between the PCB (108) and the housing member (102), providing shock absorption and vibration dampening. This helps protect the delicate electronic components from mechanical stresses and impacts. It also helps to stabilize the PCB within the housing, preventing movement during operation. On the other hand, the second segment (118) of the rubber element (114) extends over the PCB (108), potentially coming into contact with features on the back cover (104) which is connected to housing member (102) of the switch module (100). This interaction may provide additional stability and sealing when the switch module is assembled, helping to protect the internal electronics from environmental contaminants such as dust or moisture.

[0048] As clearly shown in Figure 3 that the back cover (104) comprises a first hill portion (128), a second hill portion (130) and a first valley portion (132). The second hill portion (130) is distinct from the first hill portion (128). The first valley portion (132) is positioned between the first hill portion (128) and second hill portion (130). The first hill portion (128) and the second hill portion (130) coming in constricting relation with the second segment (118) of the rubber element (114). A first wall (124) is projecting from a top side (126) of the back cover (104).

[0049] In an embodiment of the invention, the first hill portion (128) and the second hill portion (130) coming in constricting relation with the second segment (118) of the rubber element (114).

[0050] In an embodiment of the invention, the first hill portion (128), the second hill portion (130), and the first valley portion (132) form part of a first wall (124) projecting from a top side (126) of the back cover (104) and towards the PCB (108). The at least one of the housing member (102) and the knob guider member (134) comprises a second wall (136) projecting from an underside (138) thereof, the second wall (136) coming in constricting relation with the first segment (116) of the rubber element (114).

[0051] In embodiment of the invention, the rubber element is sandwich between the knob guider element and the back cover. The knob guider element (134) is placed and locked into the housing member (102) before placing the rubber element (114). After placing the knob guider and the rubber element, the back cover (104) is fixed to the housing member (102). The first hill portion (128) and the second hill portion (130) of the back cover (104) then constricts the rubber element (114) and make it secure at a certain place.

[0052] In an embodiment of the invention, the first wall (124) is projecting from the top side (126) of the back cover (104) and the second wall (136) projecting from the underside (138) of the knob guider member (134).

[0053] In an embodiment of the invention the at least one switching element (110) comprises an electrical shorting member (152) and a plurality of conductive tracks (150). The electrical shorting member (152) shorts the plurality of conductive tracks (150).

[0054] Figure 4 illustrates a sectional view showing the arrangement of the internal elements of the switch module. The knob element (112) has an underside (140). The underside (140) of the knob element (112) comprises a switching actuating member (142) as shown in Figure 6. The knob guider (134) as shown in Figure 5 comprises at least one through opening (144). The switching actuating member (142) is traversing through the at least one through opening (144) and actuate the at least one switching element (110) to allows the switching actuating member (142) to engage with the switching elements (110) on the PCB (108).

[0055] In an embodiment of the invention, the switching actuating member (142) is responsible for translating mechanical motion from the knob element (112) into action to actuate the switching elements (110) on the PCB (108).

[0056] As depicted in Figure 5, the knob guider (134) comprises a first movement restricting member (146) and the knob element (112) comprises a second movement restricting member (148). The first movement restricting member (146) restricts the lateral movement of the knob element (112) concerning the housing member (102). It ensures that the knob element (112) moves within desired parameters and maintains alignment with the housing member (102). Accordingly, the first movement restricting member (146) and the second movement restricting member (148) co-operates with each other to restrict a lateral movement of the knob element (112) with respect to the housing (102)

[0057] Coming on to Figure 7, the first side (120) of the PCB (108) comprises a plurality of conductive tracks (150) that are electrically separated from one another. The plurality of conducting tracks (150) is adapted to function as fixed contact portions of the at least one switching element (110).

[0058] In an embodiment of the invention, as illustrated in Figure 8A the first side (120) of the PCB (108) comprises at least one metal dome switch (166) that functions as the at least one switching element (110). In another embodiment of the invention, as illustrated in Figure 8B the first side (120) of the PCB (108) comprises at least one tact switch functioning as the at least one switching element (110).

[0059] In an embodiment of the invention, the housing (102) being further adapted to receive the decorative member (154) as shown in Figure 1. The decorative member (154) being attached to an external surface of the housing member (102), the decorative member (154) allowing the at least one knob element (112) to exhibit to-and-fro movement with respect to the PCB (108).

[0060] In an embodiment of the invention, the electrical shortening member is also called super conductive pill.

[0061] In an embodiment of the invention, the metal dome switch is also called gold pill.

[0062] One of the advantages of the invention is to provide a protective barrier to the printed circuit board (PCB) by providing a rubber element that facilitates the maintenance of the integrity and functionality of the internal electronic components even in harsh or dusty environments.

[0063] Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a reduces downtime and maintenance costs associated with keeping the switch module operational, making it a cost-effective solution for long-term use.

[0064] Still an advantage of the invention is that no need of putting product into oven for epoxy drying and maintaining the primary and secondary aesthetic of product.

[0065] Yet an advantage of the present invention is to provide an interaction between the rubber element and the back cover's first hill, second hill, and valley portions may contribute to additional stability and sealing when the switch module is assembled.

[0066] Further an advantage of the invention is to provide the combination of the rubber element and the back cover's configuration optimizes the switch module's for durability. By effectively shielding the internal electronics and providing stability during operation, it increases the overall lifespan of the switch module, reducing the need for maintenance or replacement.

[0067] 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 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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) cooperating with a back cover (104) to define an internal space (106);
a printed circuit board (PCB) (108) accommodated in the internal space (106), the PCB (108) comprising at least one switching element (110);
at least one knob element (112) adapted to exhibit to-and-fro movement with respect to the PCB (108) and actuating the at least one switching element (110);
a rubber element (114) comprising a first segment (116) and a second segment (118), the first segment (116) surrounding a first side (120) of the PCB (108), the second segment (118) extending partly over a second side (122) of the PCB, the first side (120) of the PCB (108) facing the housing (102), and the second side (122) of the PCB (108) being opposite to the first side (120) of the PCB (108); and
the back cover (104) comprises a first hill portion (128), a second hill portion (130) distinct from the first hill portion (128), and a first valley portion (132) positioned between the first hill portion (128) and second hill portion (130), the first hill portion (128) and the second hill portion (130) coming in constricting relation with the second segment (118) of the rubber element (114).

2. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first hill portion (128), the second hill portion (130), and the first valley portion (132) form part of a first wall (124) projecting from a topside (126) of the back cover (104) and towards the PCB (108).

3. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a knob guider member (134) positioned above the PCB (108) for guiding the to-and-fro movement of the at least one knob element (112), the knob guider member (134) forming part of the housing member (102) or being releasably attached to the housing (102).

4. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein at least one of the housing member (102) and the knob guider member (134) comprises a second wall (136) projecting from an underside (138) thereof, the second wall (136) coming in constricting relation with the first segment (116) of the rubber element (114).

5. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein an underside (140) of the knob element (112) comprises a switching actuating member (142) and the knob guider (134) comprises at least one through opening (144), the switching actuating member (142) traversing through the at least one through opening (144) and actuating the at least one switching element (110), the knob guider (134) comprising a first movement restricting member (146) and the knob element (112) comprising a second movement restricting member (148), the first movement restricting member (146) and the second movement restricting member (148) co-operating with each other to restrict a lateral movement of the knob element (112) with respect to the housing (102).

6. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of:
the first side (120) of the PCB (108) comprises plurality of conductive tracks (150) electrically separated from one another, the plurality of conducting tracks (150) adapted to function as fixed contact portions of the at least one switching element (110), and the first segment (116) of the rubber element (114) comprises an electrical shorting member (152) that shorts the plurality of conductive tracks (150) in response to the at least one knob element (112) exhibiting movement towards the PCB (108);
the first side (120) of the PCB (108) comprises at least one metal dome switch (166) functioning as the at least one switching element (110); and
the first side (120) of the PCB (108) comprises at least one tact switch (168) functioning as the at least one switching element (110).

7. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing (102) being further adapted to receive a decorative member (154), the decorative member (154) being attached to an external surface of the housing member (102), the decorative member (154) allowing the at least one knob element (112) to exhibit to-and-fro movement with respect to the PCB (108).

8. The switch module (100) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the PCB (108) comprising at least two switching elements (110), there being at least two knob elements (112) adapted to exhibit to-and-fro movement with respect to the PCB (108) and actuating the at least two switching elements (110), and the knob guider member (134) guiding the to-and-fro movement of the at least two knob elements (112).

9. The switch module (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the at least two switching elements (110) are of at least two different construction types.