Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to automotive technology. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a switch apparatus and a method of momentary interaction, enabling a knob to auto-return to an original position using an asymmetrical profile.

BACKGROUND
[0002] The current switch design faces a challenge due to relying on a latching feature for electrical contact operation. Consequently, the switch becomes stuck or latched at different positions, introducing unpredictability and potential reliability issues. The mechanism employed to activate side indicators raises concerns about the consistent and smooth functioning of the switch, potentially hindering the reliable delivery of electrical contact during operation.
[0003] Additionally, the current indicator switch utilizes a momentary action switch with a micro switch for contacts at low current which leads to high costs. To reduce expenses, the micro switches may be replaced with regular switches characterized by higher current capacity and metal contacts. However, the challenge lies in the absence of an existing design for such a switch, as all existing designs are of the latching type.
[0004] Therefore, there is a need to address the above-mentioned drawbacks, along with any other shortcomings, or at the very least, to provide a viable alternative switch apparatus.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0005] A general object of the present disclosure relates to an efficient and a reliable switch apparatus that obviates the above-mentioned limitations of existing switches.
[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a switch apparatus and a method that uses an interface component for facilitating electrical contacts corresponding to a movement of a knob, thereby enhancing user experience through a more intuitive and an efficient interaction.
[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a switch apparatus and a method that uses an elastic element in conjunction with a spherical member that momentarily interacts with an asymmetric profile corresponding to a movement of a knob, thereby enhancing responsiveness and precision of the switch apparatus.

SUMMARY
[0008] Aspects of the disclosure relate to automotive technology. In particular, the present disclosure provides an apparatus and a method of momentary interaction, enabling a knob to auto-return to an original position using an asymmetrical profile.
[0009] In an aspect, the present disclosure relates to a switch apparatus. The switch apparatus includes an enclosure, a knob, an interface component, and an elastic element. The enclosure includes an asymmetric profile. The knob extends outwards from the enclosure, where the knob includes a shaft member extending towards the asymmetric profile. The interface component is attached to the shaft member, where the interface component includes one or more contact nodes to connect with one or more conductive elements corresponding to a movement of the knob. The elastic element includes a first end and a second end, where the first end is attached to the shaft member and the second end includes a spherical member, and where the spherical member momentarily interacts with the asymmetric profile corresponding to the movement of the knob.
[0010] In an embodiment, the shaft member may include a first portion and a second portion. The first portion may attach to the interface component, and the second portion may attach to the first end of the elastic element, where the first portion may be parallel to the second portion.
[0011] In an embodiment, a first predetermined gap may be created between an end part of the second portion of the shaft member and the asymmetric profile upon the extension of the second portion towards the asymmetric profile.
[0012] In an embodiment, a second predetermined gap may be created between an edge part of the first portion of the shaft member and a housing of the enclosure upon the extension of the first portion.
[0013] In an embodiment, the elastic element may accommodate within a first predetermined gap and the interface component may accommodate within the second predetermined gap, where the interface component and the elastic element may be parallel to each other.
[0014] In an embodiment, the knob may be actuated by a user, from a predefined position, to any one of: a first direction, a second direction, and a third direction.
[0015] In an embodiment, if the knob may be actuated in any one of: the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction, an actuation force may simultaneously move the interface component and the elastic element diagonally with respect to an actuation direction of the knob.
[0016] In an embodiment, the spherical member may momentarily interact with the asymmetric profile corresponding to the actuation direction of the knob, where the knob may automatically return from the actuated direction to the predefined position along with the interface component and the elastic element due to the momentary interaction with the asymmetric profile.
[0017] In an embodiment, a first contact node of the interface component may connect with a first conductive element and a fourth contact node may connect with a fourth conductive element for transmitting a first control signal to a control unit for triggering a first set of operations to control one or more vehicle peripherals if the knob is actuated in the first direction.
[0018] In an embodiment, the first contact node may disconnect with the first conductive element and the fourth contact node may disconnect with the fourth conductive element if the knob returns from the first direction to the predefined position along with the interface component and the elastic element.
[0019] In an embodiment, a second contact node of the interface component may connect with a second conductive element and a fourth contact node may connect with a fourth conductive element for transmitting a second control signal to a control unit for triggering a second set of operations to control one or more vehicle peripherals if the knob is actuated in the second direction.
[0020] In an embodiment, the second contact node may disconnect with the second conductive element and the fourth contact node may disconnect with the fourth conductive element if the knob returns from the second direction to the predefined position along with the interface component and the elastic element.
[0021] In an embodiment, the first end of the elastic element may include a pivot pin that may accommodate within a first part of an aperture of the shaft member during the actuation of the knob in any one of: the first direction and the second direction.
[0022] In an embodiment, if the knob is actuated in the third direction, an actuation force may simultaneously move the interface component and the elastic element with respect to the actuation direction by compressing the elastic element towards a crotch of the asymmetric profile, where the elastic element may de-compress in correspondence with a release of the actuation force.
[0023] In an embodiment, a pivot pin may be moved towards a second part of an aperture of the shaft member during the actuation of the knob in the third direction.
[0024] In an embodiment, a third contact node of the interface component may connect with a third conductive element and the fourth contact node may connect with the fourth conductive element for transmitting a third control signal to a control unit for triggering a third set of operations to control one or more vehicle peripherals if the knob is actuated in the third direction.
[0025] In an embodiment, the third contact node may disconnect with the third conductive element and the fourth contact node may disconnect with the fourth conductive element if the knob returns from the third direction to the predefined position along with the interface component and the elastic element.
[0026] In an embodiment, one or more drainage paths may be positioned at a bottom portion of the switch apparatus to allow fluid to exit from the enclosure.
[0027] In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method of momentary interaction of a switch apparatus. The method includes providing an enclosure with an asymmetric profile, a knob, an interface component, and an elastic element, where the elastic element includes a spherical member. Further, the method includes actuating the knob from a predefined position to any one of: a first direction, a second direction, and a third direction and simultaneously moving the interface component and the elastic element diagonally with respect to an actuation direction of the knob, where the interface component and the elastic element are attached to the knob through a shaft member. Further, the method includes connecting and disconnecting one or more contact nodes of the interface component with one or more conductive elements due to the momentary interaction between the spherical member and the asymmetric profile based on the simultaneous movement.
[0028] In an embodiment, for connecting and disconnecting the one or more contact nodes of the interface component with the one or more conductive elements, the method may include performing one of: transmitting a first control signal to a control unit to trigger a first set of operations to control one or more vehicle peripherals based on the connection between a first contact node and a first conductive element and the connection between a fourth contact node and a fourth conductive element if the knob is actuated in the first direction. Further, the method may include transmitting a second control signal to a control unit to trigger a second set of operations to control the one or more vehicle peripherals based on the connection between a second contact node and a second conductive element and the connection between the fourth contact node and the fourth conductive element if the knob is actuated in the second direction.
[0029] In an embodiment, the method may include performing one of: disconnecting the connection between the first contact node and the first conductive element and the connection between the fourth contact node and the fourth conductive element if the knob returns from the first direction to the predefined position along with the interface component and the elastic element, and disconnecting the connection between the second contact node and the second conductive element and the connection between the fourth contact node and the fourth conductive element if the knob returns from the second direction to the predefined position along with the interface component and the elastic element.
[0030] In an embodiment, for connecting and disconnecting the one or more contact nodes of the interface component with the one or more conductive elements, the method may include transmitting a third control signal to a control unit to trigger a third set of operations to control one or more vehicle peripherals based on the connection between a third contact node and a third conductive element and the connection between a fourth contact node and a fourth conductive element if the knob is actuated in the third direction.
[0031] In an embodiment, the method may include disconnecting the connection between the third contact node and the third conductive element and the connection between the fourth contact node and the fourth conductive element if the knob returns from the third direction to the predefined position along with the interface component and the elastic element.
[0032] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0033] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of an Electric Vehicle (EV), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0035] FIGs. 2A-2B illustrate isometric views of a switch apparatus, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 3A illustrates an isometric view of a first side of the switch apparatus during an idle state, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0037] FIG. 3B illustrates an isometric view of a second side of the switch apparatus during the idle state, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0038] FIG. 3C illustrates a schematic view of the second side of the switch apparatus during the idle state, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0039] FIG. 4A illustrates an isometric view of the first side of the switch apparatus when the switch apparatus actuated in a first direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0040] FIG. 4B illustrates an isometric view of the second side of the switch apparatus when the switch apparatus actuated in the first direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0041] FIG. 4C illustrates a schematic view of the second side of the switch apparatus when the switch apparatus actuated in the first direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0042] FIG. 5A illustrates an isometric view of the first side of the switch apparatus when the switch apparatus actuated in a second direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0043] FIG. 5B illustrates an isometric view of the second side of the switch apparatus when the switch apparatus actuated in the second direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0044] FIG. 5C illustrates a schematic view of the second side of the switch apparatus when the switch apparatus actuated in the second direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0045] FIG. 6A illustrates an isometric view of the first side of the switch apparatus when the switch apparatus actuated in a third direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0046] FIG. 6B illustrates an isometric view of the second side of the switch apparatus when the switch apparatus actuated in the third direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0047] FIG. 6C illustrates a schematic view of the second side of the switch apparatus when the switch apparatus actuated in the third direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0048] FIGs. 7A-7C illustrate schematic views of the switch apparatus, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0049] FIG. 8 illustrates an isometric view of the switch apparatus that includes drainage holes, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0050] FIGs. 9A-9C illustrate a flow chart of a method of connecting and disconnecting conductive elements corresponding to an actuation direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0051] FIG. 10 illustrates a flow chart of a method of momentary interaction of the switch apparatus, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0052] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosures as defined by the appended claims.
[0053] For the purpose of understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the various embodiments and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the present disclosure is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the present disclosure as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the present disclosure relates.
[0054] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the present disclosure and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.
[0055] Whether or not a certain feature or element was limited to being used only once, it may still be referred to as “one or more features” or “one or more elements” or “at least one feature” or “at least one element.” Furthermore, the use of the terms “one or more” or “at least one” feature or element do not preclude there being none of that feature or element, unless otherwise specified by limiting language including, but not limited to, “there needs to be one or more” or “one or more elements is required.”
[0056] Reference is made herein to some “embodiments.” It should be understood that an embodiment is an example of a possible implementation of any features and/or elements of the present disclosure. Some embodiments have been described for the purpose of explaining one or more of the potential ways in which the specific features and/or elements of the proposed disclosure fulfil the requirements of uniqueness, utility, and non-obviousness.
[0057] Use of the phrases and/or terms including, but not limited to, “a first embodiment,” “a further embodiment,” “an alternate embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “multiple embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “other embodiments,” “further embodiment”, “furthermore embodiment,” “additional embodiment” or other variants thereof do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, one or more particular features and/or elements described in connection with one or more embodiments may be found in one embodiment, or may be found in more than one embodiment, or may be found in all embodiments, or may be found in no embodiments. Although one or more features and/or elements may be described herein in the context of only a single embodiment, or in the context of more than one embodiment, or in the context of all embodiments, the features and/or elements may instead be provided separately or in any appropriate combination or not at all. Conversely, any features and/or elements described in the context of separate embodiments may alternatively be realized as existing together in the context of a single embodiment.
[0058] Any particular and all details set forth herein are used in the context of some embodiments and therefore should not necessarily be taken as limiting factors to the proposed disclosure.
[0059] The terms “comprise,” “comprising,” or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, 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.
[0060] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0061] For the sake of clarity, the first digit of a reference numeral of each component of the present disclosure is indicative of the Figure number, in which the corresponding component is shown. For example, reference numerals starting with digit “1” are shown at least in Figure 1. Similarly, reference numerals starting with digit “2” are shown at least in Figure 2.
[0062] An Electric Vehicle (EV) or a battery powered vehicle including, and not limited to two-wheelers such as scooters, mopeds, motorbikes/motorcycles; three-wheelers such as auto-rickshaws, four-wheelers such as cars and other Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) and Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HCVs) primarily work on the principle of driving an electric motor using the power from the batteries provided in the EV. Furthermore, the electric vehicle may have at least one wheel which is electrically powered to traverse such a vehicle. The term ‘wheel’ may be referred to any ground-engaging member which allows traversal of the electric vehicle over a path. The types of EVs include Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) and Range Extended Electric Vehicle. However, the subsequent paragraphs pertain to the different elements of a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV).
[0063] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of an Electric Vehicle (EV), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0064] In construction, an EV (10) typically comprises a battery or battery pack (12) enclosed within a battery casing and includes a Battery Management System (BMS), an on-board charger (14), a Motor Controller Unit (MCU), an electric motor (16) and an electric transmission system (18). The primary function of the above-mentioned elements is detailed in the subsequent paragraphs: The battery of an EV (10) (also known as Electric Vehicle Battery (EVB) or traction battery) is re-chargeable in nature and is the primary source of energy required for the operation of the EV, wherein the battery (12) is typically charged using the electric current taken from the grid through a charging infrastructure (20). The battery may be charged using Alternating Current (AC) or Direct Current (DC), wherein in case of AC input, the on-board charger (14) converts the AC signal to DC signal after which the DC signal is transmitted to the battery via the BMS. However, in case of DC charging, the on-board charger (14) is bypassed, and the current is transmitted directly to the battery via the BMS.
[0065] The battery (12) is made up of a plurality of cells which are grouped into a plurality of modules in a manner in which the temperature difference between the cells does not exceed 5 degrees Celsius. The terms “battery”, “cell”, and “battery cell” may be used interchangeably and may refer to any of a variety of different rechargeable cell compositions and configurations including, but not limited to, lithium-ion (e.g., lithium iron phosphate, lithium cobalt oxide, other lithium metal oxides, etc.), lithium-ion polymer, nickel metal hydride, nickel cadmium, nickel hydrogen, nickel-zinc, silver zinc, or other battery type/configuration. The term “battery pack” as used herein may be referred to multiple individual batteries enclosed within a single structure or multi-piece structure. The individual batteries may be electrically interconnected to achieve a desired voltage and capacity for a desired application. The Battery Management System (BMS) is an electronic system whose primary function is to ensure that the battery (12) is operating safely and efficiently. The BMS continuously monitors different parameters of the battery such as temperature, voltage, current and so on, and communicates these parameters to the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and the Motor Controller Unit (MCU) in the EV using a plurality of protocols including and not limited to Controller Area Network (CAN) bus protocol which facilitates the communication between the ECU/MCU and other peripheral elements of the EV (10) without the requirement of a host computer.
[0066] The MCU primarily controls/regulates the operation of the electric motor based on the signal transmitted from the vehicle battery, wherein the primary functions of the MCU include starting of the electric motor (16), stopping the electric motor (16), controlling the speed of the electric motor (16), enabling the vehicle to move in the reverse direction and protect the electric motor (16) from premature wear and tear. The primary function of the electric motor (16) is to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy, wherein the converted mechanical energy is subsequently transferred to the transmission system of the EV to facilitate movement of the EV. Additionally, the electric motor (16) also acts as a generator during regenerative braking (i.e., kinetic energy generated during vehicle braking/deceleration is converted into potential energy and stored in the battery of the EV). The types of motors generally employed in EVs include, but are not limited to DC series motor, Brushless DC motor (also known as BLDC motors), Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM), Three Phase AC Induction Motors and Switched Reluctance Motors (SRM).
[0067] The transmission system (18) of the EV (10) facilitates the transfer of the generated mechanical energy by the electric motor (16) to the wheels (22a, 22b) of the EV. Generally, the transmission systems (18) used in EVs include single speed transmission system and multi-speed (i.e., two-speed) transmission system, wherein the single speed transmission system comprises a single gear pair whereby the EV is maintained at a constant speed. However, the multi-speed/two-speed transmission system comprises a compound planetary gear system with a double pinion planetary gear set and a single pinion planetary gear set thereby resulting in two different gear ratios which facilitates higher torque and vehicle speed.
[0068] In one embodiment, all data pertaining to the EV (10) and/or charging infrastructure (20) are collected and processed using a remote server (known as cloud) (24), wherein the processed data is indicated to the rider/driver of the EV (10) through a display unit present in the dashboard (26) of the EV (10). In an embodiment, the display unit may be an interactive display unit. In another embodiment, the display unit may be a non-interactive display unit.
[0069] Embodiments explained herein relate to automotive technology. In particular, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus and a method of momentary interaction, enabling a knob to auto-return to an original position using an asymmetrical profile. Various embodiments with respect to the present disclosure will be explained in detail with reference to FIGs. 2A-10.
[0070] FIGs. 2A-2B illustrate isometric views of a switch apparatus (200), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0071] In an embodiment, referring to FIGs. 2A-2B, a momentary operation mechanism for an indicator switch (e.g., the switch apparatus (200)) may enable an automatic return to an original position (e.g., a predefined position) when a user operates a knob (204). In an exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure may include three way momentary action to operate the switch apparatus (200) with high current application, where the three-way momentary actions may operate towards a right side (e.g., a first direction), a left side (e.g., a second direction), or a centre (e.g., a third direction). This automatic return is achieved through an internal mechanism that establishes electrical contact and facilitates the knob (204) return. The return is accomplished using a sliding CAM (e.g., an asymmetrical profile (202A)). In an exemplary embodiment, the switch apparatus (200) may operate with both low-current and high-current applications. For example, the low current may be, but not limited to a range between 30mA to 100mA, similarly, the high current may be, but not limited to a range between 1A to 5A. Additionally, the user may experience better haptics and an optimized force. The present disclosure may design the switch apparatus (200) with high current contacts and momentary action for cost-effectiveness.
[0072] FIG. 3A illustrates an isometric view (300A) of a first side of the switch apparatus (200) during an idle state, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0073] In an embodiment, the switch apparatus (200) may include an enclosure (202), a knob (204), an interface component (304), and an elastic element (310). In an embodiment, the enclosure (202) may include an asymmetric profile (202A) and the knob (204) may extend outwards from the enclosure (202). In an embodiment, the knob (204) may include a shaft member (302) that may extend towards the asymmetric profile (202A). In an exemplary embodiment, the shaft member (302) may include a first portion (302A) and a second portion (302B), where the first portion (302A) is parallel to the second portion (302B).
[0074] Referring to the first side of the switch apparatus (200) during the idle state as illustrated in FIG. 3A. The elastic element (310) may include a first end (310A) and a second end (310B). In an embodiment, the second portion (302B) may attach to the first end (310A) of the elastic element (310). In an embodiment, the second end (310B) may include a spherical member (312), where the spherical member (312) may momentarily interact with the asymmetric profile (202A) corresponding to a movement of the knob (204). In an exemplary embodiment, a first predetermined gap may be created between an end part of the second portion (302B) of the shaft member (302) and the asymmetric profile (202A) upon the extension of the second portion (302B) towards the asymmetric profile (202A). In an embodiment, the elastic element (310) and the spherical member (312) may accommodate within the first predetermined gap. During the idle state, a spring (e.g., elastic element (310)) loaded steel ball (e.g., the spherical member (312)) is in a free position. In an embodiment, the first end (310A) of the elastic element (310) may include a pivot pin (314) accommodates within a first part (302C) of an aperture (302E) of the shaft member (302) during the actuation of the knob (204) in the first direction and the second direction.
[0075] FIG. 3B illustrates an isometric view (300B) of a second side of the switch apparatus (200) during the idle state, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0076] Referring to the second side of the switch apparatus (200) during the idle state as illustrated in FIG. 3B. The first portion (302A) of the shaft member (302) may attach to the interface component (304) that include contact nodes (304A, 304B, 304C, 304D) to connect with conductive elements (306) corresponding to the movement of the knob (204). In an exemplary embodiment, a second predetermined gap may be created between an edge part of the first portion (302A) of the shaft member (302) and a housing of the enclosure (202) upon the extension of the first portion (302A). The interface component (304) may accommodate within the second predetermined gap. During the idle state, the interface component (304) may be floated and not connected to any terminals (e.g., the conductive elements (306)).
[0077] FIG. 3C illustrates a schematic view of the second side of the switch apparatus (200) during the idle state, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, referring to FIG. 3C, a fourth contact node (304D) may be in contact with a fourth conductive element (306D) when the switch apparatus (200) is in the idle state.
[0078] FIG. 4A illustrates an isometric view (400A) of the first side of the switch apparatus (200) when the switch apparatus (200) actuated in the first direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0079] Referring to FIG. 4A, when the knob (204) is actuated from the predefined position to the first direction, an actuation force simultaneously moves the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) diagonally with respect to an actuation direction of the knob (204). For example, when the user actuates the knob (204) towards the right side, the actuation force simultaneously moves the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) diagonally with respect to the right side of the knob (204).
[0080] Referring to the first side of the switch apparatus (200) as illustrated in FIG. 4A. In an embodiment, the spherical member (312) may momentarily interact with the asymmetric profile (202A) corresponding to the actuation direction (e.g., the first direction) of the knob (204). In an embodiment, the knob (204) may automatically return from the actuated direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) due to the momentary interactions with the asymmetric profile (202A).
[0081] FIG. 4B illustrates an isometric view (400B) of the second side of the switch apparatus (200) when the switch apparatus (200) actuated in the first direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0082] Referring to the second side of the switch apparatus (200) as illustrated in FIG. 4B, when the knob (204) is actuated in the first direction, a first contact node (304A) of the interface component (304) may connect with a first conductive element (306A) and the fourth contact node (304D) may connect with the fourth conductive element (306D) for transmitting a first control signal to a control unit (not shown in figures) for triggering a first set of operations to control vehicle peripherals. For example, the vehicle peripherals may be a right indicator that may be operated based on the first control signal received from the control unit. In an exemplary embodiment, when the knob (204) returns from the first direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310), the first contact node (304A) may disconnect with the first conductive element (306A).
[0083] FIG. 4C illustrates a schematic view (400C) of the second side of the switch apparatus (200) when the switch apparatus (200) actuated in the first direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0084] Referring to FIG. 4C, when the knob (204) is pushed towards the right side (e.g., the first direction), the interface component (304) may be moved to connect the first contact node (304A) with the first conductive element (306A) and connect the fourth contact node (304D) with the fourth conductive element (306D). Similarly, the elastic element (310) loaded spherical member (312) may climb on the asymmetrical profile (202A). In an embodiment, when the knob (204) is released, the elastic element (310) may come down to a free position (e.g., the predefined position), thereby the interface component (304) may return to the idle position and the contact between the first contact node (304A) and the first conductive element (306A) may be disconnected. Similarly, the contact between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) may be disconnected.
[0085] FIG. 5A illustrates an isometric view (500A) of the first side of the switch apparatus (200) when the switch apparatus (200) actuated in the second direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0086] Referring to FIG. 5A, when the knob (204) is actuated from the predefined position to the second direction, the actuation force may simultaneously move the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) diagonally with respect to the actuation direction of the knob (204). For example, when the user actuates the knob (204) towards the left side, the actuation force may simultaneously move the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) diagonally with respect to the left side of the knob (204).
[0087] Referring to the first side of the switch apparatus (200) as illustrated in FIG. 5A, the spherical member (312) may momentarily interact with the asymmetric profile (202A) corresponding to the actuation direction (e.g., the second direction) of the knob (204). In an embodiment, the knob (204) may automatically return from the actuated direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) due to the momentary interactions with the asymmetric profile (202A).
[0088] FIG. 5B illustrates an isometric view (500B) of the second side of the switch apparatus (200) when the switch apparatus (200) actuated in the second direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0089] Referring to the second side of the switch apparatus (200) as illustrated in FIG. 5B, when the knob (204) is actuated in the second direction, a second contact node (304B) of the interface component (304) may connect with a second conductive element (306B) and the fourth contact node (304D) may connect with the fourth conductive element (306D) for transmitting a second control signal to the control unit (not shown in figures) for triggering a second set of operations to control vehicle peripherals. For example, the vehicle peripherals may be a left indicator that may be operated based on the second control signal received from the control unit. In an exemplary embodiment, when the knob (204) returns from the second direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310), the second contact node (304B) may disconnect with the second conductive element (306B).
[0090] FIG. 5C illustrates a schematic view (500C) of the second side of the switch apparatus (200) when the switch apparatus (200) actuated in the second direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0091] Referring to FIG. 5C, when the knob (204) is pushed towards the left side (e.g., the first direction), the interface component (304) may be moved to connect the second contact node (304B) with the second conductive element (306B) and connect the fourth contact node (304D) with the fourth conductive element (306D). Similarly, the elastic element (310) loaded spherical member (312) may climb on the asymmetrical profile (202A). In an embodiment, when the knob (204) is released, the elastic element (310) may come down to free position (e.g., the predefined position), thereby the interface component (304) may return to the idle position and the contact between the second contact node (304B) and the second conductive element (306B) may be disconnected. Similarly, the contact between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) may be disconnected.
[0092] FIG. 6A illustrates an isometric view (600A) of the first side of the switch apparatus (200) when the switch apparatus (200) actuated in the third direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0093] Referring to FIG. 6A, when the knob (204) is actuated from the predefined position to the third direction, the actuation force may simultaneously move the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) diagonally with respect to the actuation direction by compressing the elastic element (310) towards a crotch (202B) of the asymmetric profile (202A). For example, when the user actuates the knob (204) towards the centre, the actuation force may simultaneously move the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) towards the crotch (202B) of the asymmetric profile (202A). When the user releases the actuation force, the elastic element (310) may de-compress in correspondence with the release of the actuation force. In an exemplary embodiment, the pivot pin (314) may be moved towards a second part (302D) of the aperture (302E) during the actuation of the knob (204) in the third direction. Similarly, the pivot pin (314) may return to the first part (302C) of the aperture (302E), when the actuation force is released.
[0094] FIG. 6B illustrates an isometric view of the second side of the switch apparatus (200) when the switch apparatus (200) actuated in the third direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0095] Referring to the second side of the switch apparatus (200) as illustrated in FIG. 6B, when the knob (204) is actuated in the third direction, a third contact node (304C) of the interface component (304) may connect with a third conductive element (306C) and the fourth contact node (304D) may connect with the fourth conductive element (306D) for transmitting a third control signal to the control unit (not shown in figures) for triggering a third set of operations to control vehicle peripherals. For example, the vehicle peripherals may be the right or left indicator that may be turned OFF based on the third control signal received from the control unit. In an exemplary embodiment, when the knob (204) returns from the third direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310), the third contact node (304C) disconnect with the third conductive element (306C).
[0096] FIG. 6C illustrates a schematic view of the second side of the switch apparatus (200) when the switch apparatus (200) actuated in the third direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0097] Referring to FIG. 6C, when the knob (204) is pushed towards the center (e.g., the third direction), the interface component (304) may be moved to connect the third contact node (304C) with the third conductive element (306C) and connect the fourth contact node (304D) with the fourth conductive element (306D). Similarly, the elastic element (310) loaded spherical member (312) may compress towards the crotch (202B) of the asymmetric profile (202A). In an embodiment, when the knob (204) is released, the elastic element (310) loaded spherical member (312) may de-compress and return to the free position (e.g., the predefined position), thereby the interface component (304) may return to the idle position and the contact between the third contact node (304C) and the third conductive element (306C) may be disconnected. Similarly, the contact between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) may be disconnected.
[0098] FIGs. 7A-7C illustrate schematic views (700A, 700B, 700C) of the switch apparatus (200), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0099] In an exemplary embodiment, referring to FIG. 7A, the conductive elements (306) may be positioned inside the switch apparatus (200) at a top portion (702). For example, the conductive elements (306) may be positioned against gravity.
[00100] In an exemplary embodiment, the switch apparatus (200) may operate in a see-saw manner with respect to the centre pivot pin (314) axis and control the left indicator, the right indicator, and turning OFF the indicators. When the switch apparatus (200) is pressed towards the right side, the internal moving contact slides over the fixed contact, creating an electrical signal. Upon release, the moving contact slides back to the original position, aligning with the knob (204) position. The same action may occur when the knob (204) is pressed towards left side or towards centre.
[00101] FIG. 8 illustrate an isometric view (800) of the switch apparatus (200) that includes drainage holes (804), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00102] In an exemplary embodiment, referring to FIG. 8, when fluid (e.g., water) enters through the knob (204), the water may drain down and exit through drainage paths (802) positioned at a bottom portion (804) of the switch apparatus (200), thereby minimizing the likelihood of water the top portion. This significantly prevents corrosion and damage to the conductive elements (306) which are positioned at the top portion (702).
[00103] FIGs. 9A-9C illustrate a flow chart of a method (900) of connecting and disconnecting the conductive elements (306) corresponding to the actuation direction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00104] Referring to FIG. 9A, at step (902), if the knob (204) may be pressed towards the right side, an electrical contact may be made between the first contact node (304A) and the first conductive element (306A), similarly the electrical contact may be made between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) as represented in step (904).
[00105] At step (906), if the knob (204) is released, the electrical contact may disconnect between the first contact node (304A) and the first conductive element (306A), similarly, the electrical contact may disconnect between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) while the knob (204) returns to the predefined position as represented in step (908).
[00106] Referring to FIG. 9B, at step (910), if the knob (204) us pressed towards the left side, the electrical connect may be made between the second contact node (304B) and the second conductive element (306B), similarly, the electrical contact may connect between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) as represented in step (912).
[00107] At step (914), if the knob (204) is released, the electrical contact may disconnect between the second contact node (304B) and the second conductive element (306B), similarly, the electrical contact may disconnect between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) while the knob (204) returns to the predefined position as represented in step (916).
[00108] Referring to FIG. 9C, at step (918), if knob (204) pressed towards the centre, the electrical connect may be made between the third contact node (304C) and the third conductive element (306C), similarly, the electrical contact may connect between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) as represented in step (920).
[00109] At step (922), if the knob (204) is released, the electrical contact may disconnect between the third contact node (304C) and the third conductive element (306C), similarly, the electrical contact may disconnect between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) while the knob (204) returns to the predefined position as represented in step (924).
[00110] FIG. 10 illustrates a flow chart of a method (1000) of momentary interaction of the switch apparatus (200), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00111] Referring to FIG. 10, at step (1002), the switch apparatus (200) may be provided with the enclosure (202) with the asymmetric profile (202A), the knob (204), the interface component (304), and the elastic element (310). In an embodiment, the elastic element (310) may include a spherical member (312).
[00112] At step (1004), the knob (204) may actuate from a predefined position to any one of: the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction.
[00113] At step (1006), the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) may be simultaneously moved diagonally with respect to an actuation direction of the knob (204). In an embodiment, the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) are attached to the knob (204) through a shaft member (302).
[00114] At step (1008), the contact nodes (304A, 304B, 304C, 304D) of the interface component (304) may be connected and disconnected with the conductive elements (306) due to the momentary interaction between the spherical member (312) and the asymmetric profile (202A) based on the simultaneous movement. In an embodiment, if the knob (204) is actuated in the first direction, the first control signal may transmit to the control unit to trigger the first set of operations to control the vehicle peripherals based on the connection between the first contact node (304A) and the first conductive element (306A) and the connection between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D). In an embodiment, if the knob (204) is actuated in the second direction, the second control signal may transmit to the control unit to trigger the second set of operations to control the vehicle peripherals based on the connection between the second contact node (304B) and the second conductive element (306B) and the connection between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D).
[00115] In an exemplary embodiment, if the knob (204) returns from the first direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310), the first contact node (304A) and the first conductive element (306A) may be disconnected, similarly, the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) may be disconnected. In an exemplary embodiment, if the knob (204) returns from the second direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310), the second contact node (304B) and the second conductive element (306B) may be disconnected, similarly, the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) may be disconnected. In an embodiment, if the knob (204) is actuated in the third direction, the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) may be moved simultaneously with respect to the actuation direction of the knob (204). In an exemplary embodiment, the third contact node (304C) and the third conductive element (306C) may be connected with each other, similarly, the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) may be connected with each other due to the momentary interaction between the spherical member (312) and the asymmetric profile (202A) based on the simultaneous movement. In an embodiment, if the knob (204) returns from the third direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310), the third contact node (304C) and the third conductive element (306C) may be disconnected, similarly, the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) may be disconnected.
[00116] In this application, unless specifically stated otherwise, the use of the singular includes the plural and the use of “or” means “and/or.” Furthermore, use of the terms “including” or “having” is not limiting. Any range described herein will be understood to include the endpoints and all values between the endpoints. Features of the disclosed embodiments may be combined, rearranged, omitted, etc., within the scope of the disclosure to produce additional embodiments. Furthermore, certain features may sometimes be used to advantage without a corresponding use of other features.
[00117] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the disclosure is determined by the claims that follow. The disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, versions, or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the disclosure when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[00118] The present disclosure provides a switch apparatus that operates with both low current and high current applications.
[00119] The present disclosure provides a switch apparatus that provides better haptics to a user.
[00120] The present disclosure provides a switch apparatus that includes an asymmetric profile to enable a knob to auto-return to an original position.
[00121] The present disclosure provides a mechanism that ensures effective and reliable operation of the switch in various directional inputs.
[00122] The present disclosure provides a switch apparatus that is characterized by a momentary type mechanism with low cost.
, Claims:1. A switch apparatus (200), comprising:
an enclosure (202) comprising an asymmetric profile (202A);
a knob (204) extending outwards from the enclosure (202), wherein the knob (204) comprises a shaft member (302) extending towards the asymmetric profile (202A);
an interface component (304) attached to the shaft member (302), wherein the interface component (304) comprises one or more contact nodes (304A, 304B, 304C, 304D) to connect with one or more conductive elements (306) corresponding to a movement of the knob (204); and
an elastic element (310) comprising a first end (310A) and a second end (310B), wherein the first end (310A) is attached to the shaft member (302) and the second end (310B) comprises a spherical member (312), and wherein the spherical member (312) momentarily interacts with the asymmetric profile (202A) corresponding to the movement of the knob (204).
2. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the shaft member (302) comprises:
a first portion (302A) attached to the interface component (304); and
a second portion (302B) attached to the first end (310A) of the elastic element (310), wherein the first portion (302A) is parallel to the second portion (302B).
3. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 2, wherein a first predetermined gap is created between an end part of the second portion (302B) of the shaft member (302) and the asymmetric profile (202A) upon extension of the second portion (302B) towards the asymmetric profile (202A).
4. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 2, wherein a second predetermined gap is created between an edge part of the first portion (302A) of the shaft member (302) and a housing of the enclosure (202) upon extension of the first portion (302A).
5. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the elastic element (310) accommodates within a first predetermined gap, and the interface component (304) accommodates within the second predetermined gap, and wherein the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) are parallel to each other.
6. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the knob (204) is actuated by a user, from a predefined position, in any one of: a first direction, a second direction, and a third direction.
7. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein if the knob (204) is actuated in any one of: the first direction, and the second direction, an actuation force simultaneously moves the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) diagonally with respect to an actuation direction of the knob (204).
8. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the spherical member (312) momentarily interacts with the asymmetric profile (202A) corresponding to the actuation direction of the knob (204), and wherein the knob (204) automatically returns from the actuation direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) due to the momentary interaction with the asymmetric profile (202A).
9. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein a first contact node (304A) of the interface component (304) connects with a first conductive element (306A), and a fourth contact node (304D) of the interface component (304) connects with a fourth conductive element (306D) for transmitting a first control signal to a control unit for triggering a first set of operations, the first set of operations being triggered to control one or more vehicle peripherals if the knob (204) is actuated in the first direction.
10. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the first contact node (304A) disconnects with the first conductive element (306A) and the fourth contact node (304D) disconnects with the fourth conductive element (306D) if the knob (204) returns from the first direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310).
11. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein a second contact node (304B) of the interface component (304) connects with a second conductive element (306B), and a fourth contact node (304D) of the interface component (304) connects with a fourth conductive element (306D) for transmitting a second control signal to a control unit for triggering a second set of operations, the second set of operations being triggered to control one or more vehicle peripherals if the knob (204) is actuated in the second direction.
12. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the second contact node (304B) disconnects with the second conductive element (306B) and the fourth contact node (304D) disconnects with the fourth conductive element (306D) if the knob (204) returns from the second direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310).
13. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the first end (310A) of the elastic element (310) comprises a pivot pin (314) that accommodates within a first part (302C) of an aperture (302E) of the shaft member (302) during the actuation of the knob (204) in any one of: the first direction and the second direction.
14. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein if the knob (204) is actuated in the third direction, an actuation force simultaneously moves the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) with respect to the actuation direction by compressing the elastic element (310) towards a crotch (202B) of the asymmetric profile (202A), and wherein the elastic element (310) de-compresses in correspondence with a release of the actuation force.
15. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 14, wherein a pivot pin (314) moves towards a second part (302D) of an aperture (302E) of the shaft member (302) during the actuation of the knob (204) in the third direction.
16. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 15, wherein a third contact node (304C) of the interface component (304) connects with a third conductive element (306C) and the fourth contact node (304D) of the interface component (304) connects with the fourth conductive element (306D) for transmitting a third control signal to a control unit for triggering a third set of operations, the third set of operations being triggered to control one or more vehicle peripherals if the knob (204) is actuated in the third direction.
17. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 16, wherein the third contact node (304C) disconnects with the third conductive element (306C) and the fourth contact node (304D) disconnects with the fourth conductive element (306D) if the knob (204) returns from the third direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310).
18. The switch apparatus (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising one or more drainage paths (802) positioned at a bottom portion (804) of the switch apparatus (200) to allow fluid to exit from the enclosure (202).
19. A method (1000) of momentary interaction of a switch apparatus (200), comprising:
providing (1002) an enclosure (202) with an asymmetric profile (202A), a knob (204), an interface component (304), and an elastic element (310), wherein the elastic element (310) comprises a spherical member (312);
actuating (1004) the knob (204) from a predefined position to any one of: a first direction, a second direction, and a third direction;
simultaneously (1006) moving the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) diagonally with respect to an actuation direction of the knob (204), wherein the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310) are attached to the knob (204) through a shaft member (302); and
connecting and disconnecting (1008) one or more contact nodes (304A, 304B, 304C, 304D) of the interface component (304) with one or more conductive elements (306) due to the momentary interaction between the spherical member (312) and the asymmetric profile (202A) based on the simultaneous movement.
20. The method (1000) as claimed in claim 19, wherein connecting and disconnecting (1008) the one or more contact nodes (304A, 304B, 304C, 304D) of the interface component (304) with the one or more conductive elements (306) comprises:
performing one of:
transmitting a first control signal to a control unit to trigger a first set of operations to control one or more vehicle peripherals based on the connection between a first contact node (304A) and a first conductive element (306A) and the connection between a fourth contact node (304D) and a fourth conductive element (306D) if the knob (204) is actuated in the first direction; and
transmitting a second control signal to a control unit to trigger a second set of operations to control the one or more vehicle peripherals based on the connection between a second contact node (304B) and a second conductive element (306B) and the connection between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) if the knob (204) is actuated in the second direction.
21. The method (1000) as claimed in claim 20, comprising:
performing one of:
disconnecting the connection between the first contact node (304A) and the first conductive element (306A) and the connection between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) if the knob (204) returns from the first direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310); and
disconnecting the connection between the second contact node (304B) and the second conductive element (306B) and the connection between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) if the knob (204) returns from the second direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310).
22. The method (1000) as claimed in claim 19, wherein connecting and disconnecting (1008) the one or more contact nodes (304A, 304B, 304C, 304D) of the interface component (304) with the one or more conductive elements (306) comprises:
transmitting a third control signal to a control unit to trigger a third set of operations to control one or more vehicle peripherals based on the connection between a third contact node (304C) and a third conductive element (306C) and the connection between a fourth contact node (304D) and a fourth conductive element (306D) if the knob (204) is actuated in the third direction.
23. The method (1000) as claimed in claim 22, comprising:
disconnecting the connection between the third contact node (304C) and the third conductive element (306C) and the connection between the fourth contact node (304D) and the fourth conductive element (306D) if the knob (204) returns from the third direction to the predefined position along with the interface component (304) and the elastic element (310).