TECHNICAL FIELD
Present disclosure generally relates to field of electro-mechanical engineering. Particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to switching assembly for vehicles. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a combination switch assembly to perform turn indication, lighting and horn operations in vehicles.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
Generally, vehicles such as automobiles, light motor vehicles, motor bikes, farm utility vehicles, construction vehicles and tractors may be provided with one or more panel mounted switches for performing various control operations. The panel mounted switches may include, one or more electro-mechanical switches of different constructions and configurations mounted on the steering columns of automobiles, as well as on handle bar assemblies of light motor vehicles to perform various functions. Some of these functions are ON/OFF type functions to make and break circuits for the purposes of illumination, providing optical or acoustic type indications, and the like. These switching circuits require no other control than a simple switch, for example, a simple contact type switch to perform certain lighting functions, turn indication function, and horns. Some switches may be operated between several switching positions, for example, switches which operate windscreen wipers where wipers are operated in multiple modes. The control of these functions may be carried out using some form of switch with several intermediate switching configurations between ON and OFF conditions. A switch can either be a full-load switch, where the load is connected directly to the switch, or a low-level switch, where the load is connected to a power unit, for example a relay, which is controlled by the switch. In most of the cases, switches of steering columns, handle bar assemblies or panel mounted switches accommodate a turn signal switch to indicate driving direction, particularly when vehicle needs to take a turn. Similarly, a light switch may be employed to turn ON the parking light and driving lights [headlight] of the vehicle to provide indication of presence of the vehicle.
Frequently, the light switch is configured as sliding type switch or rotary light switch, and built into the switch lever of the turn signal switch. Apart from light switches, certain push type switches are located in vehicle switching console to serve different purposes such as but not limited to honking. In all these cases, a general requirement may be durability of the elements that constitute the switching circuits without compromising with ease of accessibility and control.
3
One such conventional switch assembly which is commonly employed in the vehicles is a rotary switch assembly. The rotary switch, as known in the art, will have three (or more) rotational positions, each performing different operation. Same is the case with a light motor vehicle light switch assembly, where a knob of the switch can arcuately actuated to two or more positions. For example, in first position of the knob, the wolf lamp or the cat lamp in case of two-wheeler is lit ON, or the parking/position light in case of four wheeled vehicles is lit ON. In second position, the front headlamp is turned ON in its low beam condition, and in third position, the light is switched to high beam condition. One drawback of the switch assemblies described above is that the moving and stationary components are subjected continuous rubbing when moving members are slid or moved over the stationary parts. The continuous rubbing between contacting surfaces wear out contact tip of movable member, which might render the switch assembly inoperable over a period of time. Another disadvantage associated with the conventional rotary and linear light switch assemblies may include maintaining contact pressure between movable and stationary switching members without changing the alignment between them. Alignment may be maintained by increasing the contact pressure. However, even a small variation in contact pressure may lead to increased friction between contact elements, thereby resulting in excessive wearing of contact regions in the switches. Also, in vehicles such as light motor vehicles, farm and construction vehicles, and tractors, the handle bar assembly or the steering column containing switch combination may be exposed to atmosphere, unlike cars and other heavy vehicles which have closed structure. In such a condition, there are always chances that water and foreign particles like dust enter into the assembly. Entry of these foreign particles and water into the circuitry of switch assembly is undesirable, since they hamper normal functioning of the circuit elements in the switch. The problem of dust and water penetration is inevitable in switch assemblies of vehicles.
The present disclosure is directed to address one or more problems as discussed above.
The information disclosed in the background of the disclosure section is only for enhancement of understanding of the general background of the invention, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that this information forms the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.
4
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
The one or more drawbacks associated with existing switches as described in the background are overcome and additional advantages are provided through the assembly as claimed in the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the technicalities of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered to be a part of the claimed disclosure.
In a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a combination switch assembly for a vehicle. The assembly comprises a housing, a base carrying a plurality of switching elements fixed to the housing. A turn indicator switching module comprising a first carrier carrying a first contact member, disposed in at least one provision of the housing. The first carrier is configured to selectively move to a first switching position or a second switching position on the base, to contact at least one turn indicator switching element of the plurality of switching elements. Further, the first contact member is connectable to the first carrier through at least one first contact resilient member. A first carrier resilient member is disposed between the housing and the first carrier, such that the first carrier resilient member offers operating resistance on the first carrier during the movement of the first carrier to the first switching position or the second switching position. The assembly further comprises a light switching module, comprising a second carrier carrying a second contact member, disposed in the housing adjacent to the first carrier. The second carrier is configured to selectively move to a plurality of light switching positions on the base for contacting at least one light switching element of the plurality of switching elements in each of the plurality of light switching positions. At least one second carrier resilient member is disposed between the second carrier and the housing, such that the at least one second carrier resilient member offers operating resistance on the second carrier during the movement of the second carrier to each of the plurality of light switching positions.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first carrier resilient member carries a first plunger, the first plunger is configured to ride on detents provided on the first carrier when the first carrier is operated to the first switching position or the second switching position.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first carrier is connectable to a first knob extending from the housing.
5
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one second carrier resilient member carries a second plunger. The second plunger is configured to ride on detents provided on the second carrier, when the second carrier is operated to each of the plurality of light switching positions.
The plurality of light switching positions includes light OFF position, parking light ON position, headlight low beam ON position and headlight high beam ON position.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second contact member is connectable to at least one carrying member, and the at least one carrying member is configured to allow the second contact member to selectively contact the at least one light switching element of the plurality of switching elements.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the assembly comprises a horn switching module. The horn switching module comprises a third carrier carrying a third contact member, disposed in the housing concentric to the second carrier. The third carrier is configured to selectively move towards at least one horn switching element of the plurality of switching elements configured on the base. The third contact member is connectable to the third carrier through at least one third contact resilient member. Further, a third carrier resilient member is disposed between the housing and the third carrier, such that the third carrier resilient member offers operating resistance on the third carrier during the movement of the third carrier towards the at least one horn switching element.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one elastomeric member is disposed between the housing and each of the first carrier, second carrier and the third carrier for preventing entry of foreign particles into the housing.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the assembly comprises a Printed Circuit Board to interface each of the turn indicator switching module, the light switching module and a horn switching module with the wiring harness of the vehicle.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the assembly comprises a second knob provisioned on the housing and connectable to the second carrier.
6
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the assembly comprises a push-button provisioned on the housing concentric to the second knob and connectable to the third carrier, the push-button is configured to actuate the third carrier towards the at least one horn switching element.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the assembly comprises a plurality of symbols imprinted on a surface of the housing. Each of the plurality of symbols corresponds to at least one of plurality of light switching positions, the first and second switching positions and horn.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the assembly comprises a light source in the housing, the light source is configured to illuminate the plurality of symbols.
It is to be understood that the aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described above may be used in any combination with each other. Several of the aspects and embodiments may be combined together to form a further embodiment of the disclosure.
The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
The novel features and characteristics of the disclosure are set forth in the appended description. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates exploded view of the combination switch assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary sectional front view of the combination switch assembly of FIG. 1 in assembled condition showing the turn indicator module, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
7
FIG. 2B illustrates exploded perspective view of the turn indicator module of FIG. 2A along with a base.
FIG. 3A illustrates an exemplary sectional side view of the combination switch assembly of FIG. 1 in assembled condition showing the light switching module, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3B illustrates exploded perspective view of the light switching module of FIG. 3A along with the base.
FIG. 4A illustrates an exemplary sectional front view of the combination switch assembly of FIG. 1 in assembled condition showing the horn switching module, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 4B illustrates exploded perspective view of the horn switching module of FIG. 4A along with the base.
FIG. 5A illustrates perspective view of an upper portion of the housing of the combination switch assembly shown in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 5B illustrates exploded bottom perspective view of the housing of FIG. 5A, with the light holder and PCB arranged in a first configuration to illuminate the symbols, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary sectional front view of the combination switch assembly of FIG. 1 in assembled condition showing elastomeric members, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate sectional front view and perspective view respectively of a carrying member used in light switching module of the combination switch assembly of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate sectional perspective view and sectional front view respectively of the housing, with the light holder and PCB arranged in a second configuration to illuminate the symbols, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
8
FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate assembled perspective view and exploded bottom perspective view respectively of the housing shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B.
FIG. 10 illustrates sectional front view of a switch assembly without Printed Circuit Board and light guide, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate perspective top view and exploded bottom perspective view respectively of the housing of switch assembly shown in FIG. 10.
The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the assemblies, structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The foregoing has broadly outlined the features and technical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the detailed description of the disclosure that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the disclosure. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.
The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the disclosure, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure.
Embodiments of the present disclosure discloses a combination switch assembly for a vehicle to perform switching operations, including but not limited to turn indication, honking and lighting operations. The assembly comprises a housing which encloses the components of the switching assembly. The housing may be fixed with a base carrying a plurality of switching
9
elements. The switching elements may present on the base and may be contacted by various modules of the assembly to make and break contacts. The modules may include a turn indicator switching module, light switching module and horn switching module. The turn indicator switching module may comprises of a first carrier carrying a first contact member, disposed in at least one provision of the housing. The first carrier may selectively move to a first switching position or a second switching position on the base, to establish contact between the first contact member and at least one turn indicator switching element of the plurality of switching elements. Further, the first contact member may be connected to the first carrier through at least one first contact resilient member. The first contact resilient member is configured to maintain or vary contact pressure of the first contact member with respect to the base. Further, a first carrier resilient member may be disposed between the housing and the first carrier. The first carrier resilient member may be configured to offer operating resistance on the first carrier during the movement of the first carrier to the first switching position or the second switching position. The first carrier resilient member may carry a first plunger which is configured to ride on a plurality of detents provided on the first carrier, when the first carrier is operated to first or second position. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first carrier is connectable to a knob which may extend from the housing to provide accessibility to a user.
The assembly further comprises a light switching module to perform light switching functions in the vehicle. The light switching module may comprise of a second carrier carrying a second contact member, and may be disposed in the housing adjacent to the first carrier. The second carrier may selectively move to a plurality of light switching positions on the base. This facilitates the second contact member to contact at least one light switching element of the plurality of switching elements, in each of the plurality of light switching positions. At least one second carrier resilient member may be disposed between the second carrier and the housing, such that the second carrier resilient member offers operating resistance on the second carrier during the movement of the second carrier to each of the plurality of light switching positions. The second carrier resilient member carries a second plunger which may ride on a plurality of detents provided on the second carrier when the second carrier is operated between a plurality of light switching positions on the base. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the light switching positions include parking light ON condition, low beam ON condition and high beam ON condition. Further, the second contact member carried by the second carrier may be connected to a carrying member to selectively allow the contact of the second contact member with each of the plurality of light switching elements. The light switching may also
10
comprise a second knob extending from the housing to operate the light switching module between various switching positions.
The combination switch assembly also comprises a horn switching module to perform honking functions in the vehicle. The horn switching module comprises a third carrier carrying a third contact member, disposed in the housing concentric to the second carrier. The third carrier may be configured to selectively move towards at least one horn switching element of the plurality of switching elements provided on the base. The third contact member may be connected to the third carrier through at least one third contact resilient member. The third contact resilient member may be configured to maintain or vary contact pressure of the third contact member with respect to the base. Further, a third carrier resilient member may be disposed between the housing and the third carrier, such that the third carrier resilient member offers operating resistance on the third carrier during the movement of the third carrier towards the at least one horn switching element. The horn switching module may be operated through a switch button provided concentric to the second knob. The push button may be actuated to move the third contact member towards the horn switching element of the base.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of elastomeric members is disposed between the housing and each of the first carrier, second carrier and the third carrier for preventing entry of foreign particles including but not limited to water and dust into the housing. The assembly also comprises a Printed Circuit Board to interface each of the turn indicator switching module, the light switching module and the horn switching module with the wiring harness of the vehicle.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of symbols is imprinted on a surface of the housing, with each of the plurality of symbols corresponding to at least one of light switching positions, first position and second position of turn indication, and horn. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the housing comprises a light source for illuminating the plurality of symbols.
Use of terms such as “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof in the description, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that assembly that comprises a list of components does not include only those components or steps, but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such. In other words, one or more
11
elements in an assembly may be proceeded by “comprising… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the assembly.
Reference will now be made to a combination switch assembly for a vehicle, and is explained with the help of figures. The figures are for the purposes of illustration only, and should not be construed as limitations on the assembly disclosed in the present disclosure. Wherever possible, referral numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts.
FIG. 1 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure which illustrates exploded perspective view of a combination switch assembly (100) for a vehicle [not shown]. In FIG. 1, some of the components are shown in further exploded views and are indicated as “A” and “B” for the purpose of clarity and better understanding. As shown in Fig. 1, the assembly (100) comprises a combination of light, horn and turn indicator modules for performing turn indication, light switching and honking operations respectively with respect to the vehicle. The switch assembly (100) [alternatively referred to as “assembly (100)” through the description for simplicity] comprises a base (13) supported on a supporting member [not shown] of the assembly (100). The supporting member may be a frame of the vehicle, including but not limited to a handle bar of a light motor vehicle, or a steering column with an electronic console of a heavy motor vehicle, such as a car, or a panel of the farm or construction vehicle. The base (13) may be configured with a plurality of switching elements including turn indication switching elements (20a, 20b), light switching elements (13a, 13b, 13d, 13e) and horn switching elements (13f). In an embodiment, the base (13) may comprise of plurality of connecting pins (P) extending downwardly. Each of the plurality of connecting pins (P) may be connected to at least one switching element of the plurality of switching elements. The connecting pins (P) may be accommodated in a connector of a wiring harness [not shown] of the vehicle.
The assembly (100) further comprises a housing (1) which houses the combination of switching modules (turn indication, light assembly and horn assembly). The housing (1) may securely hold and enclose all the three switching modules along with associated circuitry, with respect to the supporting member of the vehicle. The housing (1) may be mounted or assembled on to the base (13) with a number of intermediate components and sub-assemblies disposed and interfaced between them. A Printed Circuit Board (4) [hereafter referred to as “PCB”] may be assembled and secured inside the housing (1) by means of securing means (5), including but not limited to fasteners, to achieve interfacing between the components. The PCB (4) may
12
further be mounted with a light holder (3) to hold a plurality of light sources [not shown] to illuminate a plurality of symbols (30, 31). Further, the symbols may correspond to one of turn indication symbols like arrow indicators, light switching symbols like alphanumeric characters, or horn switching symbols like a symbol of horn. Upon illumination, the symbols may provide a visual indication regarding activation of a specific switching module to a user. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the illumination may be a direct illumination or a splash type illumination, which will be explained in detail in upcoming paragraphs. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the PCB (4) serves as an interface between the three modules viz. turn indication, light and horn switching modules of the assembly (100) and the wiring harness [no shown] of the vehicle.
Further, as it can be seen in FIG. 1, a second knob (18) may be provided on the housing (18) to actuate the light switching module between one or more positions. The second knob (18) may project outside the housing (1) to provide accessibility to the user, so that the user can operate the second knob (18) to perform light switching operations. The second knob (18) may also contain a concentric push-button (11c) attached with a cap (17) which allows the user to depress it to perform horning operations. The cap (17) may be supported by a bush (16) and a sleeve (15) inside the housing (1) relative to the light switching module. The switch assembly (100) also comprises a first knob (6) which extends from the housing (1) [for example extending in sideward direction], and is operatively coupled to the turn indication module (100A). The user may turn ON either the left indicator or the right indicator by operating the first knob (6) either to a first position or a second position from a mean position, where the turn indication will be in OFF condition.
FIGS. 2A and 2B are exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure which illustrate sectional front view and exploded perspective view respectively of the switch assembly (100) along with the base (13). The sectional front view of the switch assembly (100) as shown in FIG. 2A is considered along an exemplary sectional plane of the switch assembly (100) in assembled condition to illustrate the components constituting the turn indication module (100A). The housing (1), as shown in FIG. 2A, accommodates a first carrier (9) movably inserted in a provision, such as a slot or a cut-out. The first carrier (9), as the name implies, is intended to carry one or more movable parts constituting the turn indication module (100a) of the switch assembly (100). The first carrier (9) comprises a body (9a) and a shaft (9f) extending from the body (9a). The shaft (9f) may be coupled to the first knob (6) which projects from the
13
housing (1) as shown in FIG. 2A. When the user actuates the first knob (6), torque is imparted on the shaft (9f) which results in rotation of the first carrier (9). In an embodiment, the first knob (6) may be snap fit with the first carrier (9a). Further, as shown in FIG. 2B, the body (9a) of the first carrier (9) comprises a plurality of detents (9d). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the detents (9d) include but not limited to V-shaped or W-shaped grooves having a crest and trough formed on an upper periphery of the body (9a) of the first carrier (9). The detents (9d) may accommodate at least one first plunger (8b) loaded onto a first carrier resilient member (8a). An end of the first carrier resilient member (8a) may be fixed to the housing (1) [as shown in FIG. 2A], and an opposite end may be loaded with the first plunger (8b). The first resilient member (8a) biases the first plunger (8b) against the detents (9d) present on the first carrier (9). The presence of detents (9d) will facilitate the user to selectively move the first carrier (9) to first position (FP) or the second (SP) from the mean position (20c). Also, the first plunger (8b) biased by the first carrier resilient member (8a) against the detents (9d) may offer operating resistance to the user to move the first carrier (9) either to the first position (FP) or to the second position (SP) to perform turn indication switching. The detents (9d) which abut against the first plunger (8b) biased by the first resilient member (8a) also provides an enhanced feel to the user when the user actuates the first knob (6) either to first position (FP) or the second position (SP) relative to the base (13). This enables the user to intuitively identify that a particular turn indication switching has been achieved.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first plunger (8b) biased by the first resilient member (8a) may also be configured to maintain required alignment of the first carrier (9) with respect to turn indication switching elements (20a, 20b) and the mean position (20c) on the base (13). In an exemplary embodiment, three detents may provided on the upper periphery of the first carrier (9), each corresponding to first position (FP), mean position (20c) and second position (SP) respectively. When the user operates the first knob (6) towards first position (FP) or towards the second position (SP) from the mean position (20c), the first plunger (8b) may ride over profile of the detents (9d) until it engages an adjacent detent. In doing so, the first resilient member (8a) undergoes deformation [undergoes compression] and facilitates easy and smooth movement of the first carrier (9) to desired position. Precisely, the first resilient member (8a) undergoes compressive deformation [elastic] when the first plunger (8a) reaches a crest of the detent (9d), and the first resilient member (8a) returns to its free state once the first plunger (8b) starts riding towards the root or trough from the crest. The riding of the first plunger (8b) over the profile of each of the detents (9d) may be assisted by elastic deformation
14
of the first resilient member (8a) which may enable the user in easy and smooth shifting of the first knob (6) between first and second positions (FP, SP). The presence of first resilient member (8a) also minimizes friction and wear between the contact surfaces inside the housing (1). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first resilient member (8a) is an axial spring.
Now, referring to FIG. 2B, the first carrier (9) carries a first contact member (9c). The first contact member may be imparted with motion when the first carrier (9) is actuated by operating the first knob (6). When no turn indication selection is made, the first knob (6) and the first carrier (9) remain in a mean [or central] position. Consequently, the first contact member (9c) will also remain in its mean position (20c). In the mean position, there is no making of the circuit i.e. circuit remains open and no switching takes place. When the first knob (6) is actuated from the mean position (20c) either to first position (FP) or the second position (SP), the first contact member (9c) aligns and makes contact with a first turn indication switching element (20a) or a second turn indication switching element (20b) provided on the base (13). The first and second turn indication elements (20a and 20b) are hereafter referred to as “first switching element (20a)” and “second switching element (20b)” for the sake of simplicity. The first and second switching elements (20a, 20b) on the base (13) serve as stationary contact members which may make [or close] the circuit of the turn indication module (100a) with the first movable member (9c).
When the first carrier (9) is actuated by the first knob (6) along a predefined trajectory, for example, in an arcuate manner, the first contact member (9c) moves arcuately. When the first contact member (9c) contacts the first switching element (20a), first turn indication lamp [not shown] glows and provides an indication that the vehicle is taking a turn in a first direction. In a similar manner, the second turn indication lamp may be lit by moving the first contact member (9c) towards the second switching element (20b). Therefore, in the mean position (20c) of the first contact member (9c), the circuit is open, and at first and second extreme positions (FP and SP) of the first contact member (9c), the circuit gets closed. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first position (FP) corresponds to left indication and second position (SP) indicates right indication, or vice versa. In an embodiment, the first contact member (9c) may comprise of a contact projection (9e) which makes contact with the switching elements (20a, 20b).
15
The turn indication switching module (100a) further comprises a first contact resilient member (9b) on which the first contact member (9c) is loaded, so that a predetermined contact pressure may be maintained between the first contact member (9c) with respect to base (13), specifically with switching elements (20a, 20b) during circuit making. An end of the first contact resilient member (9b) may be fixed to the body (9a) of first carrier (9), and another end may be loaded with the first contact member (9c). In an embodiment of the disclosure, the first contact resilient member (9b) may be an axial or compression spring. The first contact resilient member (9b) may undergo elastic deformation to maintain contact pressure when the first contact member (9c) is actuated from mean position (20c) to first and second position (FP and SP). Thus, the first contact resilient member (9b) allows contact pressure to be varied between first contact member (9c) and the first and second switching elements (20a, 20b). This causes distribution of applied load, thereby reducing the friction and wear between the first contact member (9c) and switching elements (20a, 20b). This in turn improves durability and wear life of the contacting elements. When the contact is made (i.e. when circuit is closed), electric current flows through associated terminals to activate the turn indication lamp. In an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, a pair of first contact resilient members (9b) are provided in the turn indication module (100A).
Now referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B which are exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure illustrating sectional front view and exploded perspective view respectively of the switch assembly (100) showing light switching module (100b). The sectional front view of the switch assembly (100) as shown in FIG. 3A may be considered along an exemplary sectional plane of the switch assembly (100) in assembled condition to illustrate the components constituting the light switching module (100b). The light switching module (100b) may be provided to switch ON or OFF the headlamps and/or parking/position light of the vehicle and select one of low beam and high beam. Accordingly, the light switching module (100b) may comprises a second carrier (11a) disposed adjacent to the first carrier (9a) at a central portion of the housing (1), or a substantially central portion of the housing (1). The second carrier (11a) may be imparted with movements in trajectories, including but not limited to arcuate and rotary trajectories to selectively align with at least one of light switching elements (13a, 13b, 13d, 13e) of the plurality of switching elements provisioned on the base (13). The second carrier (11a) may be connected to a second knob (18) through which the movement of the second carrier (11a) may be effected. The second knob (18) may project outside the housing (1) so that the user can easily and readily access the second knob (18) to perform light switching [turning ON and
16
OFF] of several lights of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the second knob (18) may be a rotary knob which may be actuated to move the second carrier (11a) in a rotary path to contact the light switching elements (13a, 13b, 13d, 13e).
The second carrier (11a) may also be provided with a second contact member (11g) which may selectively contact with each of the plurality of light switching elements (13a, 13b, 13d, 13e) upon actuation of the second carrier (11a). The second contact member (11g) may be actuated from position “O” which denotes the OFF condition of light switching module to positions “P” and “L” or “H” to turn ON parking light and low beam/high beam respectively. Switch element (13a) corresponds to OFF condition of light switching module (100b), element (13b) corresponds to parking light “P”, while switching elements (13d) and (13e) correspond to “low beam (L)” and “high beam (H)” respectively. An incremental actuation of the second knob (18) may result in contact between one or more switching element to turn ON a combination of parking light at “P” along with low beam “L” or high beam “H”.
Further, the second carrier (11a) may be loaded to one or more second carrier resilient members (2b) comprising one or more loaded second plungers (2c). The second carrier resilient members (2b) may exert resilient force on the second carrier (11a) via second plungers (2c). An end of the second carrier resilient member (2b) may be fixed to the housing (1) through a holder (2d), while another end carries the second plunger (2c). The second plunger (2c) of each of the second resilient member (2b) may be configured to engage with a plurality of detents [not shown] defined on an outer periphery of the second carrier (11a). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the detents [not shown] on second carrier (11a) include but not limited to V-shaped grooves formed on an outer periphery of the second carrier (11a). The second carrier resilient member (2b) biases the second plunger (2c) against each of the detents present on the second carrier (11a). The presence of detents will facilitate the user to selectively move the second carrier (11a) to positions “O”, “P”, “L” and “H”. Also, the second plunger (2c) biased by the second carrier resilient member (2b) against the detents will offer the operating resistance to the user to apply required torque to move the second carrier (11a) to positions “O”, “P”, “L” and “H” to perform light switching. The detents which abut against the second plunger (2c) biased by the second carrier resilient member (2b) also provides an enhanced feel to the user when the user actuates the second knob (18) to various positions “O”, “P”, “L” and “H” relative to the base (13). This enables the user to intuitively identify that a particular light switching has been achieved.
17
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second plunger (2c) biased by the second carrier resilient member (2b) may also be configured to maintain required alignment of the second carrier (11a) with respect to light switching elements (13a, 13b, 13d, 13e) on the base (13). In an exemplary embodiment, three detents are provided on the outer periphery of the second carrier (11a), each corresponding to OFF (O) condition, parking light position (P) and low/high beam position (L/H) respectively. When the user operates the second knob (18), the second plunger (2c) rides over profile of the detents until it engages an adjacent detent. In doing so, the second resilient member (2b) may undergo deformation [undergoes compression] and facilitates easy and smooth movement of the second carrier (11a) to desired positions. Precisely, the second resilient member (2b) undergo compressive deformation [elastic] when the second plunger (2c) reaches a crest of a detent, and conversely, the second carrier resilient member (2b) starts returning to its free state once the second plunger (2c) starts riding towards a root from the crest. The riding of the second plunger (2c) over the profile of each of the detents assisted by elastic deformation of the second carrier resilient member (2b) will enable the user in easy and smooth actuation of the second knob (18) to various positions (“O”, “P”, “L” and “H”). The presence of second carrier resilient member (2b) also minimizes friction and wear between the contact surfaces inside the housing (1). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second carrier resilient member (2b) may be an axial spring. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of second carrier resilient members (2b) are disposed transversely with respect to the second carrier (11a).
The light switching module (100b) further comprises a second contact resilient member (12) on which the second contact member (11g) may be loaded, so that a predetermined contact pressure may be maintained between the second contact member (11g) with respect to base (13), specifically with switching elements (13a, 13b, 13d, 13e) during circuit making. An end of the second contact resilient member (12) may be fixed to the second carrier (11a), and another end may be loaded with the second contact member (11g). The second contact resilient member (12) may undergo elastic deformation to maintain contact pressure when the second contact member (11g) is actuated between positions “O”, “P”, “L” and “H”. Thus, the second contact resilient member (12) allows contact pressure to be varied between second contact member (11g) and the light switching elements (13a, 13b, 13d, 13e). This causes distribution of applied load, thereby reducing the friction and wear between the second contact member (11g) and switching elements (13a, 13b, 13d, 13e). This in turn improves durability and wear
18
life of the contacting elements. When the contact is made (i.e. when circuit is closed), electric current flows through associated terminals to activate the turn indication lamp. In an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, the light switching module (100b) may comprise of three number of second contact resilient members (12). The second contact resilient member (12) may be disposed between the second carrier (11a) and rivets (11h) configured on the second contact member (11g).
FIGS. 4A and 4B are exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure which illustrate sectional front view of the switch assembly (100) and exploded perspective view of the horn switching module (100c) along with the base (13). The sectional front view of the switch assembly (100) as shown in FIG. 4A may be considered along an exemplary sectional plane of the switch assembly (100) in assembled condition to illustrate the components constituting the horn module (100c). In addition to light and turn indicator modules explained in previous paragraphs, the assembly (100) comprises a third module viz. the horn switching module (100c) to perform honking. The horn switching module (100c) comprises a third carrier (11c) which may be disposed concentrically inside the second carrier (11a). In an embodiment, the third carrier (11c) may be disposed in a provision defined concentrically inside the second carrier (11a), the provision including but not limited to a longitudinal hole or a bore. The third carrier (11c) may be configured to reciprocate relative to the second carrier (11a) towards one or more horn switching elements (13f) provided on the base (13). The third carrier (11c) carries a third contact member (11e) which may be reciprocatingly actuated to contact the horn switching element (13f). The actuation of third contact member (11e) may be achieved by applying force on the third carrier (11c) through an elastomeric cap (17) assembled on the third carrier (11c). The elastomeric cap (17) projects from the housing (1) so that the user can readily access it to perform honking when need arises. The elastomeric cap (17) may be depressed for making [closing] the horn switching module circuit, and may be released to break [open] the circuit. When cap (17) is depressed, the third carrier (11c) moves along with the third contact member (11e) towards horn switching elements (13f). The contact established between the third contact member (11e) and horn switching element (13f) results in honking. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cap (17) may be secured to the housing (1) through a locking bush (16) which in turn may be assembled onto a sleeve (15). In an embodiment, the cap (17) is of a polymeric material like rubber which may prevent entry of foreign matter like dust and water into the switch assembly (100) through openings.
19
The horn switching module (100c) also comprises third carrier resilient member (11b) which facilitates force transfer from the elastomeric cap (17) to the third carrier (11c), when it is depressed or released for making and breaking the contacts. The third carrier resilient member (11b) serves purposes identical to those of first and second carrier resilient members (8a and 2b) of the turn indication and light switching modules (100a, 100b), with respect to the horn switching module (100c). Further, the third contact member (11e) carried by the third carrier (11c) may be loaded on a third contact resilient member (11d). This arrangement facilitates maintenance of appropriate contact pressure between third contact member (11e) and the third switching element (13c) when contact is established, in a manner similar to first and second contact resilient members (9b and 12) explained in above paragraphs.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first, second and third carrier resilient members (8a, 2b and 11b), and the first, second and third contact resilient members (9b, 12 and 11d) are axial springs, such as but not limiting to compression springs. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the first and second carriers are snap fit with first and second knobs respectively for compressing at least one resilient ring between the casing and the first and second carriers. In still another embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one third carrier is locked with the third movable member and is covered with the elastomeric cap, which serves the purpose as described above.
FIGS. 5A and 5B are exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure which illustrate perspective view of the housing (1) and exploded bottom perspective view of the housing (1) with the light holder (3) and PCB (4) arranged in a first configuration. The arrangement shown in FIG. 5B is of direct or backlit illumination type switch assembly (100). The assembly comprises PCB (4) encased in the housing (1). The function of PCB (4) in switch assemblies in well known in the art and is not explained in detail in the description. A light guide (3) comprising a light holder (40) may be interposed between the PCB (4) and the housing (1) body. The light guide (3) with the light holder (40) may be configured as an assembly to hold one or more light sources [not shown] which are configured to illuminate a plurality of symbols (30, 31) imprinted on the housing (1). The symbols (30, 31) which are present on top surface of the switch assembly (100), upon illumination by the light source, provides indication of different selections made by the user viz. parking/position light ON condition, left or right indicator selection, headlamp ON/OFF, high or low beam selection and horn symbol of the switch assembly (100). In an embodiment, the light guide (3) with light holder (40) may be
20
fixed to the housing (1) through PCB (4) by means of securing means (5), including but not limited to fasteners like screws or by a snap fit mechanism.
FIG. 6 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure which illustrates sectional view of the switch assembly (100) to illustrate a plurality of elastomeric members disposed in the housing (1). The moving carriers of the switch assembly (100) viz. the first, second and third carriers are provided with one or more elastomeric members (32, 33, 36). The elastomeric member (32) is disposed in between locking bush (16) and the second carrier (11a) to prevent entry of foreign matter into the switch assembly (100) from openings present in the light module (100b) with second knob (18). Similarly, elastomeric members (33) and (36) are disposed between second carrier (11a)-housing (1) junction and first carrier (9)-housing (1) junction respectively. The members (33, 36) prevent entry of foreign matter from openings present in between light module (100b), turn indicator module (100a) and the housing (1). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the elastomeric members (32, 33, 36) include but not limited to O-rings which conceal the space and are capable of deforming upon loading. In addition, an elastomeric member (37) like an insert may be integrated with the housing (1) by techniques, including but not limited to insert molding.. Further, a coating (35) or a layer including but not limited to an epoxy layer may be applied on specified zones on the periphery of the base (13) and contact elements (13a, 13b, 13d, 13e) flared area to prevent entry of foreign matter into the switch assembly (100). The housing (1) may also comprise of a sealing member (34) [like a gasket] disposed at the housing (1) - base (13) interface. The sealing member (34) may act as an impervious member to prevent entry of foreign matter from underside of the combination switch assembly (1).
FIGS. 7A and 7B are exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure which illustrate sectional view and perspective view respectively of a carrying member (201) carrying light switching elements on the base (13) to reduce wear and friction between the moving contact (203) and the fixed contact (206). The switch assembly (100) described in previous paragraphs may comprise of a carrying member (201) which may be connected to contact elements of the light switching module (100b). The second contact member (11g) of light switch module (100b) may comprise movable contacts (11h) [shown in FIGS. 1 and 3B], including but not limited to conductive rivets which may contact the switching elements (13a, 13b, 13d, 13e) to close the circuit. The movable contacts (11h) may be configured to move or slide on the base (13) to the switching elements (13a, 13b, 13d, 13e) provisioned on the base (13). As shown in
21
FIG. 7A, the movable member (203) is movably connected to a carrying member (201) through a carrier (202). The depth or height of the carrying member (201) is configured to be greater than the depth or height of the movable member (203), so that movable member (203) is retracted or lifted away from the plane of fixed member of the base (204). The extent of lift depends on the difference between the depths (or heights) of the carrying member (201) and the movable member (203). This prevents contact and rubbing between the movable member (203) and the base (204) when the movable member (203) slides on the base (13) during open condition of the circuit. When the contact is to be established, the carrying member (201) is slidably moved on the base (204) until one of the plurality of recesses (205) or a depression (205) is encountered. The carrying member (201) gets depressed in the recess (205) so that movable member (203) also gets depressed along with carrying member (201), and thereby comes in contact with fixed contact elements (206) of the base (204) to close the circuit. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the arrangement disclosed above is configured to reduce friction and wear between the movable members with the fixed members configured on the base (204).
FIGS. 8A and 8B are exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure which illustrate sectional perspective view and sectional front view respectively of switch assembly (100) with splash type illumination. FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate assembled perspective view and exploded perspective of the switch assembly (100) of FIGS. 8A and 8B. Reference is made to FIGS. 8A and 8B in conjunction with FIGS. 9A-9B. In the switch assembly (100) described with respect to FIGS. 1-6 in the above paragraphs, the light rendered by the at least one light source is directly illuminated on the indicator modules or symbols (30, 31) through the light guide (3) and light holder (40). However, in this variant of the switch assembly (100), the light (L) [shown by arrow marks in FIG. 8B] may be guided through a gap (G) between the knob (302) and the housing (301) so that indicator symbols (301A) provided on the housing (301) are illuminated. The illumination of indicator modules (301A) provides indication of selection/switched condition of parking/position light, the headlight, as well as the low beam or high beam selection made by the user. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the symbols (301A) are pad printed with white colour on black background of housing (301) that will visible in night uniformly by light (L) spread on symbols (301A) through the light guide (303). The mounting of light guide (303) and the PCB (304) through fasteners (305) is shown clearly in FIG. 9B.
22
FIG. 10 illustrates sectional front view of a third variant of a switch assembly (100) with no printed circuit board (PCB) and light guide. FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate assembled perspective view and exploded perspective view respectively of the switch assembly (100) of FIG. 10. The switch assembly (100) shown in FIGS. 10, 11A and 11B contains no PCB and light guide, and can be retro-fitted to an existing switching circuit comprising a PCB and with or without the light guide. The switching elements are same as the switching assembly (100) described in above paragraphs i.e. contain turn indicator switching module, light switch module and horn indicator module. However, since no PCB is provided, the switch assembly (100) is only retro-fittable and cannot operate on its own. As seen in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the upper surface of housing (401) may be provided with a plurality of indicator symbols (401A) that may be illuminated by one or more methods described in the above paragraphs. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the symbols (401A) are pad printed with white colour on black background of casing (401) that will visible in night uniformly by light spread on symbols (401A).
Advantages:
The present disclosure provides a combination switch assembly with various switching modules like light switching, turn indication and horn switching modules. Each of these modules comprise of simpler and lesser number of components which may be assembled readily and easily without any complexity and increased cost. The simpler parts also render the switch assembly retrofittable.
The present disclosure provides a switch assembly in which moving components are loaded to elastomeric members like axial springs. The elastomeric members reduce friction and wear when moving contacts contact and slide over fixed elements, thereby increasing the durability of the components constituting the switch assembly.
The present disclosure provides a switch assembly in which distinct resilient members are used to apply operating force [or torque] and to maintain contact pressure. This allows the user to easily and readily operate various knobs to perform switching operations, at the same time, provide enhanced feel to the user to perform selective switching of various modules.
The present disclosure provides a switch assembly in which elastomeric members, coatings and integral sealing members are provided. These members prevent undesirable entry of
23
foreign matter like water and dust into the switch assembly, and thereby increases operating life of the switch assembly.
Equivalents
With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.
It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should typically be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is
24
used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."
While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.
REFERRAL NUMERALS
Reference Number
Description
100
Switch Assembly
1
Housing
2
Second carrier resilient assembly
2a
Provision
2b
Second carrier resilient member
2c
Second plunger
4
Printed Circuit Board (PCB)
5
Securing means
6
First knob
7
Seals
8a, 8b
First carrier resilient member, first plunger
9, 9a
First carrier, body of first carrier
25
9b
First contact resilient member
9c
First contact member
9d
Detents on first carrier
9e
Projection on first contact member
11a
Second carrier
11b
Third carrier resilient member
11c
Third carrier
11d
Third contact resilient member
11e
Third contact member
11g
Second contact member
11h
Movable contacts
12
Second contact resilient member
13
Base
15
Sleeve
16
Locking bush
17
Rubber cap
18
Second knob
20a, 20b
First and second turn indication switching elements
25
Terminals
30, 31
Symbols
32, 33, 34
Elastomeric members
35
Coating/epoxy
37
Gasket
40
Light holder
201
Carrying member
202
Carrier
203
Movable member
204
Base
205
Recess
26
206
Fixed contact element
301
Housing
301A, 301B
Indicator symbols
302
Light Knob
303
Light guide
303a
Light holder
304
Printed Circuit Board (PCB)
L
Light
G
Gap between casing and knob

We claim:
1. A combination switch assembly (100) for a vehicle, the assembly (100) comprising:
a housing (1);
a base (13) carrying a plurality of switching elements, fixed to the housing (1);
a turn indicator switching module (100A), comprising:
a first carrier (9) carrying a first contact member (9c), disposed in at least one provision of the housing (1), the first carrier (9) is configured to selectively move to a first switching position (FP) or a second switching position (SS) on the base (13), to contact at least one turn indicator switching element (20a, 20b) of the plurality of switching elements;
wherein, the first contact member (9c) is connectable to the first carrier (9) through at least one first contact resilient member (9b); and
a first carrier resilient member (8a) disposed between the housing (1) and the first carrier (9), such that the first carrier resilient member (8a) offers operating resistance on the first carrier (9) during the movement of the first carrier (9) to the first switching position (FP) or the second switching position (SP);
and
a light switching module (100B), comprising:
a second carrier (11a) carrying a second contact member (11g), disposed in the housing (1) adjacent to the first carrier (9), the second carrier (11a) is configured to selectively move to a plurality of light switching positions (O, P, L, H) on the base (13) for contacting at least one light switching element (13a, 13b, 13d, 13e) of the plurality of switching elements in each of the plurality of light switching positions (O, P, L, H); and
at least one second carrier resilient member (2b) disposed between the second carrier (11a) and the housing (1), such that the at least one second carrier resilient member (2b) offers operating resistance on the second carrier (11a) during the movement of the second carrier (11a) to each of the plurality of light switching positions (O, P, L, H).
2. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first carrier resilient member (2b) carries a first plunger (8b), and, the first plunger (8b) is configured to ride on
28
detents (9d) provided on the first carrier (9), when the first carrier (9) is operated to the first switching position (FP) or the second switching position (SP).
3. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first carrier (9) is connectable to a first knob (6) extending from the housing (1).
4. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one second carrier resilient member (2b) carries a second plunger (2c), the second plunger (2c) is configured to ride on detents provided on the second carrier (11a), when the second carrier (11a) is operated to each of the plurality of light switching positions (O, P, L, H).
5. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of light switching positions includes light OFF position (O), parking light ON position (P), headlight low beam ON position (L) and headlight high beam ON position (H).
6. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second contact member (11g) is connectable to at least one carrying member (201), and the at least one carrying member (201) is configured to allow the second contact member (11g) to selectively contact the at least one light switching element (13a, 13b, 13d, 13e) of the plurality of switching elements.
7. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a horn switching module (100C), the horn switching module (100C) comprises:
a third carrier (11c) carrying a third contact member (11e), disposed in the housing (1) concentric to the second carrier (11a), the third carrier (11c) is configured to selectively move towards at least one horn switching element (13f) of the plurality of switching elements configured on the base (13);
wherein, the third contact member (11e) is connectable to the third carrier (11c) through at least one third contact resilient member (11d); and
a third carrier resilient member (11b) disposed between the housing (1) and the third carrier (11c), such that the third carrier resilient member (11b) offers operating resistance on the third carrier (11c) during the movement of the third carrier (11c) towards the at least one horn switching element (13f).
29
8. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises at least one elastomeric member (32, 33, 36) disposed between the housing (1) and each of the first carrier (9a), second carrier (11a) and the third carrier (11c) for preventing entry of foreign particles into the housing (1).
9. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a Printed Circuit Board (4) to interface each of the turn indicator switching module (100A), the light switching module (100B) and a horn switching module (100C) with the wiring harness of the vehicle.
10. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a second knob (18) provisioned on the housing (1) and connectable to the second carrier (11a).
11. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a push-button (17) provisioned on the housing (1) concentric to the second knob (18) and connectable to the third carrier (11c), the push-button (17) is configured to actuate the third carrier (11c) towards the at least one horn switching element (13c).
12. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a plurality of symbols (30, 31) imprinted on a surface of the housing (1), wherein each of the plurality of symbols corresponds to at least one of plurality of light switching positions (O, P, L, H), the first and second switching positions (FP, SP) of the turn indicator and horn.
13. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 12 comprises a light source in the housing (1), the light source is configured to illuminate the plurality of symbols (30, 31).
14. A vehicle comprising a combination switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1.