The present invention generally relates to the field of switches. Particularly, the present
invention relates to a push switch for use in automobile applications.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In general, vehicles are equipped with a variety of control switches for horn, winker, dimmer,
start etc.
Numerous attempts have been made in the past and are still continued to provide the control
switch, which are compact in size. But sometime, it highly compromise on the ease of use or
ergonomic nature of the control switch.
Generally, the control switches possess different mechanical configuration such as a push
type or a hinge type or a slide type or a rocker type configuration etc. in different shapes and
sizes. Regardless of any type configuration, the control switch is generally provided with
three main components- a knob, a housing and a contact mechanism.
Generally, when it comes to making a compact control switch, attempts are made in a
direction of reducing the size of the housing or knob or both or changing type of contact
mechanism which is compact in nature.
Even if one or more control switch is integrated, they share a common housing of a
dimension suitable for arranging one or more control switches. Though it aids in resolving
size constraints, ingress of any foreign contamination in the common housing will affect said
one or more control switch simultaneously.
Therefore, there is still a need to provide a switch which is compact, which is user friendly,
which is ergonomic in nature, which is more water-resistant, dust-resistant or contamination
resistant and which has a longer life span.
Also, there is still a need to provide a switch which is simple in terms of its construction,
which is easy to manufacture, which can be manufactured at a reasonable price and has
precision in operation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
3
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified format that are
further described in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is neither
intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention, and nor is it intended
for determining the scope of the invention.
The present invention relates to an integrated switch (100). The integrated switch (100)
comprises a menu/ selector switch (102) comprising a housing (104), a base cover (106) , a
plurality of switching elements (108), an actuation means (110) adapted to actuate the
switching elements (108) in response to receiving an actuation force and a lateral wall (112)
protruding from the housing (104). The integrated switch (100) further comprises a push
switch (114) disposed on the lateral wall (112) protruding from the housing (104) of the
menu/selector switch (102).
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular
description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof,
which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict
only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of
its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail
with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES:
In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference
will now be made to exemplary embodiments as illustrated with reference to the
accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally
similar elements throughout the separate views. The figures together with a detailed
description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further
illustrate the embodiments and explain various principles and advantages, in accordance with
the present invention where:
Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of an integrated switch in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 illustrates a close up view of the switching elements in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention;
Figure 3a and 3b illustrates a top and a bottom view of the PCB in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention;
4
Figure 4a and 4b illustrates a top and a bottom view of the PCB in accordance with another
embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5a and 5b illustrates a top and a bottom view of the carrier in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention;
Figure 6 illustrates a top view of the carrier in accordance with another embodiment of the
invention;
Figure 7a and 7b illustrates an arrangement of the plurality of moving contacts in the
plurality of slots of the carrier in accordance with the embodiments illustrated in Figure 5 and
Figure 6;
Figure 8 illustrates a cam profile disposed on the base cover of the menu/selector switch in
accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 9 illustrates a top view and a sectional view of the lateral wall of the plunger in
accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 10a, 10b and 10c illustrates a position of the user interface knob member, a position
of the plunger and a position of the switching elements respectively in an Off/Center push
Off condition;
Figure 11a, 11b, 11c and 11d illustrates a position of the user interface knob member, a
position of the plunger , a position of the carrier and a position of the switching elements
respectively in X+ (left) On Condition;
Figure 12a, 12b, 12c and 12d illustrates a position of the user interface knob member, a
position of the plunger, a position of the carrier and a position of the switching elements
respectively in X- (right) On Condition;
Figure 13a, 13b, 13c and 13d illustrates a position of the user interface knob member, a
position of the plunger, a position of the carrier and a position of the switching elements
respectively in Y+ (down) On Condition;
Figure 14a, 14b, 14c and 14d illustrates a position of the user interface knob member, a
position of the plunger, a position of the carrier and a position of the switching elements
respectively in Y- (up) On Condition;
Figure 15 illustrates a position of the plunger in Centre push On condition;
Figure 16 illustrates a plurality of stopper pillars of the carrier in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention;
Figure 17 illustrates a plurality of stopper slots of the base cover in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention;
5
Figure 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d and 18e illustrates positions of the four stopper pillars of the
carrier in their corresponding stopper slots of the base cover for Off/Center push Off
Condition, X+ (left) On Condition, X-(right) On Condition, Y+ (down) On Condition and Y-
(up) On Condition;
Figure 19 illustrates a protective means of the menu/selector switch in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention;
Figure 20 illustrates a perspective view of the menu/selector switch in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention;
Figure 21 corresponds to the push switch being in OFF position, when the knob is not
actuated;
Figure 22 corresponds to the push switch being in ON position, when the knob is actuated;
Figure 23 illustrates a plurality of male and female stopper means of the push switch in
accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and
Figure 24a and 24b illustrates side views of the push switch in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention.
It may be noted that to the extent possible, like reference numerals have been used to
represent like elements in the drawings. Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements
in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn
to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be
exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of aspects of the
present invention. Furthermore, the one or more elements may have been represented in the
drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details
that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to
obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the
art having benefit of the description herein.
Detailed Description of the Invention:
For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference
will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be
used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of
the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated
device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein
6
being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention
relates.
It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the
following detailed description are explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be
restrictive thereof.
As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,”
“an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also,
as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the
context clearly dictates otherwise.
Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language
means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the
embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus,
appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment” and similar
language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same
embodiment.
The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a
non-exclusive inclusion, such that a device 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.
As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the terms "coupled to", “connected
to”, “operably connected to”, “operatively connected to” are intended to include both direct
connection / coupling (in which two elements that are coupled / connected to each other
contact each other) and indirect coupling / connection (in which at least one additional
element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled
with" are used synonymously. Similarly, the terms “connected to” and “connected with” are
used synonymously.
7
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same
meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention
belongs. The device, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not
intended to be limiting.
The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with
respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention
and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language
in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to
the practice of the invention.
Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not
to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed
individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found
herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for
reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the
specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written
description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the
accompanying drawings.
Referring to Figure 1, which is an exploded view of an integrated switch (100). The
integrated switch (100) comprises a menu/ selector switch (102) comprising a housing (104),
a base cover (106) , a plurality of switching elements (108), an actuation means (110) adapted
to actuate the switching elements (108) in response to receiving an actuation force and a
lateral wall (112) protruding from the housing (104). The integrated switch (100) further
comprises a push switch (114) disposed on the lateral wall (112) protruding from the housing
(104) of the menu/selector switch (102).
In an embodiment of the invention, the actuation means (110) comprises a user interface
knob surface (116) and a plunger (118). The plunger (118) comprises a spring (120) and
roller ball mechanism (122).
8
Referring to Figure 2, which is a close up view of the switching elements (108) in
accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the switching elements (108) comprise a
first set of switching elements (124) and a second set of switching elements (126).
Referring back to Figure 1, in an embodiment of the invention, the menu/ selector switch
(102) further comprises a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) (128). Now Referring to Figure 3a
and 3b, which illustrates a top and a bottom view of the PCB (128) in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention, the PCB (128) comprises a first side (128a), a second side
(128b) below the first side (128a) in the direction of actuation and an aperture (128c). The
aperture (128c) allows the plunger (118) to traverse from the first side (128a) to the second
side (128b). The first side (128a) may comprise a switching element (130) which may be a
micro switch and the second side (128b) comprises the first set of switching elements (124).
In an embodiment of the invention, the first set of switching elements (124) may comprise a
plurality of fixed contact tracks.
In an embodiment of the invention, the fixed contact tracks may be in the form of resistive
tracks or fixed copper contacts on the PCB (128).
Now Referring to Figure 4a and 4b, which illustrates a top and a bottom view of the PCB
(128) in accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the PCB (128) comprises a
first side (128a), a second side (128b) below the first side (128a) in the direction of actuation
and an aperture (128c). The aperture (128c) allows the plunger (118) to traverse from the first
side (128a) to the second side (128b). The first side (128a) may comprise a switching element
(130) which may be a micro switch (130) and the second side (128b) comprises the first set
of switching elements (124). The first set of switching elements (124) may comprise a
plurality of micro switches.
Although not illustrated, in an embodiment of the invention the first side (128a) of the PCB
(128) may comprise a first part of the switching element (130) in the form of plurality of
fixed contact tracks while the plunger (118) is adapted to carry moving contact element
corresponding thereto.
In an embodiment of the invention, the micro switch forming part of the first set of switching
elements (124) and the micro switch (130) are a sealed/non-sealed micro switch with an
operating member for actuation, in response to receiving an actuation force.
9
In an embodiment of the invention, the geometry and dimensions of the first set of switching
elements (124) depends on the type of switch that is being used. In an embodiment of the
present invention, the first set of switching elements (124) may be manufactured in the form
of rivets, pins, bolts or any conductive members which allow electric current to pass through
them by offering certain resistance. In an embodiment of the invention, the material used to
fabricate first set of switching elements (124) is selected from a variety of conducting metals
including but not limited to copper, aluminum, Zinc, Iron and other metals and metallic
alloys which have desirable electrical conductivity and other electrical properties. In an
embodiment of the invention, the first set of switching elements (124) may take any shape
which serves the purpose of allowing electric current to flow. In an embodiment of the
invention, the first switching elements (124) is adapted to be able to provide smooth sliding
movement of the moving member over the first switching elements (124) during circuit
making and breaking.
Referring back to Figure 1, in an embodiment of the invention, the menu/ selector switch
(102) further comprises a carrier (132), the carrier (132) being disposed between the PCB
(128) and the base cover (106). Now referring to Figure 5a and 5b, which illustrates a top
and a bottom view of the carrier (132) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention,
the carrier (132) comprises a first side (132a), a second side (132b) below the first side (132a)
in the direction of actuation and an aperture (132c). The aperture (132c) allows the plunger
(118) to traverse from the first end (132a) to the second end (132b). The first end (132a) of
the carrier (132) comprises the second set of switching elements (126). When the first set of
switching elements (124) are in the form of fixed contact tracks as shown in Figures 3a and
3b, the second set of switching elements (126) comprises a plurality of moving contacts
(134) with their respective moving contact spring (136). In this embodiment of the invention,
the moving contact (134) is in the shape of trident.
In an alternative embodiment of the embodiment, as shown in Figure 6, which illustrates a
top view of the carrier (132), the moving contact (134) may be in the shape of roller.
In an embodiment of the invention, the plurality of moving contacts (134) with their
respective moving contact spring (136) is disposed in a plurality of slots (132d) as provided
on the first side (132a) of the carrier (132). Figure 7a and 7b, illustrates an arrangement of
the plurality of moving contacts (134) in the plurality of slots (132d) of the carrier (132) in
accordance with the embodiments illustrated in Figure 5 and Figure 6.
10
In an embodiment of the invention, the geometry and dimensions of the second set of
switching elements (126) depends on the type of switch that is being used. In an embodiment
of the present invention, the second set of switching elements (126) can be configured as a
single entity or as an assembly of several parts. In an embodiment of the invention, the
material used to fabricate second set of switching elements (126) is selected from a variety of
conducting metals including but not limited to copper, aluminum, Zinc, Iron and other metals
and metallic alloys which have desirable electrical conductivity and other electrical
properties. In an embodiment of the invention, the second set of switching elements (126)
may take any shape, for example - trident or roller or pillar or bent rectangular plate or plates
having dimples, or any other shape, which is adapted to provide proper/ efficient actuation of
the first switching elements (124) during circuit making and breaking. In an embodiment of
the invention, the second set of switching elements (126) may preferably be adapted to
exhibit smooth sliding movement over the first switching elements (124). In an embodiment
of the invention, the second set of switching elements (124) may exhibit longitudinal or axial
movement for smooth sliding movement over the first switching elements (124).
In an embodiment of the invention, the plunger (118) is coupled to carrier (132). In an
embodiment of the invention, the plunger (118) may be press fitted into the aperture (132c) of
the carrier (132) and is adapted to move the carrier (132) in response to receiving an actuation
force on the user interface knob surface (116).
In an embodiment of the invention, the plunger (118) makes the carrier (132) to float/toggle
on the base cover (106) to bring the first set of switching elements (124) in contact with the
second set of switching elements (126), in response to receiving an actuation force on the
user interface knob surface (116), to make an electrical connection.
In an embodiment of the invention, the plunger (118) floats/toggles on the cam profile (138)
via the roller ball mechanism (122) of the plunger (118). In an embodiment of the invention,
cam profile (138) is a 3D cam profile. Figure 8 illustrates a cam profile (138) disposed on the
base cover (106) of the menu/selector switch (102).
In an embodiment of the invention, the menu/selector switch (102) is provided with four
micro switches or four pair of fixed contact tracks forming part of the of the first set of
switching elements (124), each for X+ (left) position, X-(right) position, Y+ (down) position
and Y- (up) position.
11
When the menu/selector switch (102) comprises four micro switches on the second side of
the PCB, the carrier (132) accommodates four micro switch actuating elements. In an
embodiment of the invention, the four micro switch actuating elements may take any shape,
for example - roller or pillar or any other shape, which is adapted to provide proper/ efficient
actuation of the four micro switches. In an embodiment of the invention, the second set of
switching elements (126) may preferably be adapted to exhibit smooth sliding movement
over the first switching elements (124). In an embodiment of the invention, the second set of
switching elements (124) may exhibit longitudinal or axial movement for smooth sliding
movement over the first switching elements (124).
Figure 9, which illustrates a top view and a sectional view of the lateral wall (140) of the
plunger (118), the plunger (118) is provided with a lateral wall (140) protruding from the
plunger (118) to push the micro switch (130) disposed on the first end (128a) of the PCB
(128) in response to the center push actuation of the user interface knob surface (116).
In an embodiment of the invention, the menu/selector switch (102) has 6 operating conditions
namely OFF Condition, LEFT ON Condition, RIGHT ON Condition, DOWN ON
Condition, UP ON Condition and Center push ON Condition. Non-actuated state of the
menu/selector switch (102) corresponds to OFF Condition. Movement of the user interface
knob (116) in the LEFT direction corresponds to LEFT ON condition; movement of the user
interface knob (116) in the RIGHT direction corresponds to RIGHT ON condition;
movement of the user interface knob (116) in the DOWN direction corresponds to DOWN
ON condition; and movement of the user interface knob (116) in the UP direction
corresponds to UP ON condition. When the user interface knob (116) is pushed inwardly, the
same corresponds to Centre push ON Condition which may correspond to SELECT
/DESELECT Condition.
Figure 10a, 10b and 10c, illustrates a position of the user interface knob member (116), a
position of the plunger (118) and a position of the switching elements (122) respectively in an
OFF condition, when the menu/selector switch (102) is not actuated. In this position it can be
seen that none of the second set of switching elements (126) is in electrically contacting
relationship with the corresponding first set of switching elements (124). Furthermore, the
lateral wall (140) protruding from the plunger (118) is spaced apart from the micro switch
(130).
12
Now Referring to Figure 11a, 11b, 11c and 11d, which illustrates position of the user
interface knob member (116), position of the plunger (118), position of the carrier (132) and
position of the switching elements (122) respectively, when the menu/selector switch (102) is
actuated to LEFT ON position. It can be seen from Figure 11a, that in the LEFT ON position,
the user interface knob member (116) gets tilted in the direction of the arrow. As a result, as
shown in Figure 11b and 11c, the plunger (118) floats/toggles on the cam profile (138) and in
turn makes the carrier (132) to float/toggle on the base cover (106) in the x+ direction which
is direction opposite to the direction of tilt of the user interface knob member (116)/arrow
marked in figure 11a. In simpler words, when the user interface knob member (116) is tilted
horizontally towards left, the plunger (118) and carrier (132) tilt towards the right (or X+) by
a predetermined degree. In consequence of the floating/toggling of the carrier (132), it can be
seen in figure 11d that only the first set of switching element (124) and the second set of
switching element (126) in the X+ direction (or on the right side or in the direction opposite
to the direction of tilt of the user interface knob member (116)) is made to complete an
electrical connection.
Now Referring to Figure 12a, 12b, 12c and 12d, which illustrates position of the user
interface knob member (116), position of the plunger (118), position of the carrier (132) and
position of the switching elements (122) respectively, when the menu/selector switch (102) is
actuated to RIGHT ON position. It can be seen from Figure 12a, that in the RIGHT ON
position, the user interface knob member (116) gets tilted in the direction of the arrow. As a
result, as shown in Figure 12b and 12c, the plunger (118) floats/toggles on the cam profile
(138) and in turn makes the carrier (132) to float/toggle on the base cover (106) the Xdirection which is direction opposite to the direction of tilt of the user interface knob member
(116)/arrow marked in figure 12a. In simpler words, when the user interface knob member
(116) is tilted horizontally towards right, the plunger (118) and carrier (132) tilt towards the
left (or X-) by a predetermined degree. In consequence of the floating/toggling of the carrier
(132), it can be seen in figure 12d that only the first set of switching element (124) and
second set of switching element (126) in the X- direction (or on the left side or in the
direction opposite to the direction of tilt of the user interface knob member (116)) is made to
complete an electrical connection.
Now Referring to Figure 13a, 13b, 13c and 13d, which illustrates position of the user
interface knob member (116), position of the plunger (118), position of the carrier (132) and
position of the switching elements (122) respectively, when the menu/selector switch (102) is
13
actuated to DOWN ON position. It can be seen from Figure 13a, that in the DOWN ON
position, the user interface knob member (116) gets tilted in the direction of the arrow. As a
result, as shown in Figure 13b and 13c, the plunger (118) floats/toggles on the cam profile
(138) and in turn makes the carrier (132) to float/toggle on the base cover (106) in the Y +
direction which is a direction opposite to the direction of tilt of the user interface knob
member (116)/arrow marked in figure 13a. In simpler words, when the user interface knob
member (116) is tilted vertically downwards, the plunger (118) and carrier (132) tilt upwards
by a predetermined degree. In consequence of the floating/toggling of the carrier (132), it can
be seen in figure 13d that only the first set of switching element (124) and second set of
switching element (126) in the Y+ direction (or on the upward side or in the direction
opposite to the direction of tilt of the user interface knob member (116)) is made to complete
an electrical connection.
Now Referring to Figure 14a, 14b, 14c and 14d, which illustrates position of the user
interface knob member (116), position of the plunger (118), position of the carrier (132) and
position of the switching elements (122) respectively, when the menu/selector switch (102) is
actuated to UP ON position. It can be seen from Figure 14a, that in the UP ON position, the
user interface knob member (116) gets tilted in the direction of the arrow. As a result, as
shown in Figure 14b and 14c, the plunger (118) floats/toggles on the cam profile (138) and in
turn makes the carrier (132) to float/toggle on the base cover (106) in the Y- direction which
is a direction opposite to the direction of tilt of the user interface knob member (116)/arrow
marked in figure 14a. In simpler words, when the user interface knob member (116) is tilted
vertically upwards, the plunger (118) and carrier (132) tilt downwards (or Y-) by a
predetermined degree. In consequence of the floating/toggling of the carrier (132), it can be
seen in figure 14d that only the first set of switching element (124) and the second set of
switching element (126) in the Y- direction (or on the downward side or in the direction
opposite to the direction of tilt of the user interface knob member (116)) is made to complete
an electrical connection.
In an embodiment of the invention, the said predetermined degree can be calculated by a
predetermined formula depending on various factors such as size constraints, space
constraints, etc.
Referring to Figure 15, which illustrates a position of the plunger (118) in Centre push ON
condition. In this condition, the lateral wall (140) protruding from the plunger (118) is
14
adapted to push an operating member of the micro switch (130), in response to the push/press
actuation of the user interface knob surface (116).
In an embodiment of the invention, each of the LEFT ON Condition, RIGHT ON Condition,
DOWN ON Condition, UP ON condition, and Centre push ON Condition is a momentary
condition, i.e. exists in response to receiving an actuation force on the user interface knob
surface (116) only. When the actuation force ceases to exist, the menu/selector switch (102)
returns to its default position i.e. OFF condition/ Centre push OFF condition.
In an embodiment of the invention, when the actuation force ceases to exist, the plunger
(118) returns to its default position i.e. OFF condition /Center push off condition.
In an embodiment of the invention, each of the LEFT ON Condition, RIGHT ON Condition,
DOWN ON Condition, UP ON condition, and Centre push ON condition may correspond to
a specific functionality.
In an embodiment of the invention, each of the LEFT ON Condition, RIGHT ON Condition,
DOWN ON Condition, and UP ON condition may aid in toggling around different
functionalities and Centre push ON condition may aid in selecting and cancelling the
functionality.
Referring to Figure 16, which illustrates a plurality of stopper pillars (142) of the carrier
(132), the second side (132b) of carrier (132) is provided with a plurality of stopper pillars
(142).
Referring to Figure 17, which illustrates a plurality of stopper slots (144) of the base cover
(106), the base cover (106) comprises a plurality of stopper slots (144) that co-operate with
the plurality of stopper pillar (142) to restrict a level of travel of the carrier (132).
Now Referring to Figure 18a, 18b, 18 c, 18d and 18e which illustrates positions of the four
stopper pillars (142) of the carrier (132) in their corresponding stopper slots (144) of the base
cover (106) for Off/Center push Off Condition, X+ (left) On Condition, X-(right) On
Condition, Y+ (down) On Condition and Y- (up) On Condition.
Referring to Figure 19, which illustrates a protective means (146) of the menu/selector
switch (102), the protective means (146) is provided between actuation means (110) and the
housing (104) to prevent ingress of foreign contaminants. In an embodiment of the invention,
the protective means is provided via rubber over molding.
15
Referring to Figure 20, which illustrates a perspective view of the menu/selector switch
(102), the housing (104) is provided with a pair of orifices (148a,148b) for wire harnesses,
the pair of orifices (148,148b) is provided with a sealing member (150) to prevent ingress of
foreign contaminant.
In an embodiment of the invention, the user interface knob surface (116) is press-fitted to the
plunger (118).
In an embodiment of the invention, the housing (104) and the base cover (106) are joined
together via plastic welding method and adhesive bonding.
Referring back to Figure 1, the push switch (114) comprises a pair of pivot elements (152a,
152b) arranged side by side on the lateral wall (112), a knob (154) pivotally mounted on said
pivot elements (152a, 152b) via a pivot pin (156), a fixed contact member (158) being
disposed on the lateral wall (112) and a moving contact member (160) being disposed inside
the knob (154) such that upon actuation the moving contact member (160) comes in contact
with the fixed contact member (158) to make an electrical connection.
In an embodiment of the invention, the push switch (114) further comprises a resilient means
(162) between the knob (154) and the lateral wall (112) and is adapted to provide a restoring
force to the knob (154).
Referring to Figure 21, which corresponds to the push switch (114) being in OFF position, it
can be seen that the knob (154) is not actuated.
Referring to Figure 22, which corresponds to the push switch (114) being in ON position, it
can be seen that when the knob (154) is actuated thereby bringing the moving contact
member (160) in contact with the fixed contact member (158) to make an electrical
connection. When the knob (154) is actuated, the resilient means (162)attains a compressed
state and when the actuation force (as applied on the knob (154)) ceases to exist, the resilient
means (162)expands and applies a restoration force on the knob (154) thereby bring the knob
(154) to the state shown in Figure 21.
Referring to Figure 23, which illustrates a plurality of male and female stopper means (164,
166) of the push switch (114), the knob (154) is provided with a male stopper means (164)
and the lateral wall (112) is provided with a female stopper means (166) to prevent the knob
(154) from being over-pressed after full-travel.
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In an embodiment of the invention, the fixed contact member (158) is provided on a fixed
contact rivet (170). In an embodiment of the invention, the fixed contact member (158) is
provided with an insulating sheet (172).
Referring to Figure 24a and 24b, which illustrates the side views of the push switch (114),
the pivot pin (156) comprises a first end (156a) and a second end (156b), one of the first end
(156a) or second end (156b) comprises a pair of split ends (168a, 168b) to be folder over one
of the pivot element (152a/152b).
Advantages of the present invention:
 The construction of the integrated switch is such that it is compact yet user friendly and
ergonomic in nature.
 The construction of the integrated switch is such that it is simple in terms of its
construction, easy to manufacture, manufactured at a reasonable price and has precision
in operation.
 The construction of the cam profile is such that it allows easy toggling/floating of the
plunger.
 The construction of the protective means, sealing member and insulating sheet is such
that it makes the integrated switch more water-resistant, dust-resistant or contamination
resistant.
 The construction of stopper pillars, stopper slots, male and female stoppers means is
optimized to restrict any travel beyond full travel.
 The construction of housing and base cover is such that they are well
joined/bonded/welded.
 The construction of pivot elements and pivot pin is such that it allows smooth pivotal
movement of the knob.
 The construction of switching element is optimized for better making/breaking of an
electrical connection.
While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on
account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various
working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive
concept as taught herein.
17
The figures and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the
art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a
single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple
functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment.
Moreover, all elements shown in the diagrams need not be implemented. The scope of
embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations,
whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure,
dimension, and use of material, are possible. The scope of embodiments is at least as broad as
given by the following claims.
List of Numerals
100 Integrated Switch
102 Menu/Selector Switch
104 Housing
106 Base cover
108 Switching Elements
110 Actuation means
112 Lateral wall of housing
114 Push Switch
116 User Interface Knob Surface
118 Plunger
120 Spring
122 Roller ball mechanism
124 First set of Switching Elements
126 First set of Switching Elements
128 Printed Circuit Board (PCB)
128a First Side of PCB
128b Second Side of PCB
128c Aperture of PCB
130 Micro Switch
132 Carrier
132a First Side of Carrier
132b Second Side of Carrier
132c Aperture of Carrier
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132d Slots of Carrier
134 Moving Contact
136 Moving Contact Spring
138 Cam Profile
140 Lateral wall of plunger
142 Stopper pillars
144 Stopper Slots
146 Protective means
148a, 148b Orifices
150 Sealing Member
152a, 152b Pivot Elements
154 Knob
156 Pivot pin
156a First end of Pivot Pin
156b Second End of Pivot pin
158 Fixed Contact Member
160 Moving Contact Member
162 Resilient Means
164 Male Stopper Means
166 Female Stopper Means
168a, 168b Split ends of Pivot Pin
170 Fixed Contact Rivet
172 Insulating sheet

WE CLAIM:

1. An integrated switch (100) comprising:
a menu/ selector switch (102) comprising a housing (104), a base cover (106) , a
plurality of switching elements (108), an actuation means (110) adapted to actuate the
switching elements (108) in response to receiving an actuation force and a lateral wall
(112) protruding from the housing (104); and
a push switch (114) disposed on the lateral wall (112) protruding from the housing
(104) of the menu/selector switch (102).
2. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the actuation means (110)
comprises a user interface knob surface (116) and a plunger (118), the plunger (118)
comprises a spring (120) and roller ball mechanism (122).
3. The integrated switch as claimed in Claim 1, where in the switching elements (108)
comprises a first set of switching elements (124) and a second set of switching
elements (126).
4. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the menu/ selector switch (102)
further comprising:
a Printed circuit board (PCB) (128), the PCB (128) comprising a first side
(128a), a second side (128b) below the first side (128a) in the direction of actuation
and an aperture (128c) that allows the plunger (118) to traverse from the first side
(128a) to the second side (128b), the first side (128a) comprising a micro switch (130)
and the second side (128b) comprising the first set of switching elements (124), the
first set of switching elements (124) comprises a plurality of micro switches or fixed
contact tracks ; and
a carrier (132), the carrier (132) being disposed between the PCB (128) and
the base cover (106), the carrier (132) comprising a first side (132a), a second side
(132b) below the first side (132a) in the direction of actuation and an aperture (132c)
that allows the plunger (118) to traverse from the first side (132a) to the second side
(132b), the first side (132a) of the carrier (132) comprising the second set of
switching elements (126) , the second set of switching elements (126) comprising a
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plurality of moving contacts (134) with their respective moving contact spring (136)
or micro switch actuating elements.
5. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plunger (118) is press fitted
into the aperture (132c) of the carrier (132) and is adapted to move the carrier (132) in
response to receiving an actuation force on the user interface knob surface (116).
6. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 5, wherein the plunger (118) makes the
carrier (132) to float/toggle on the base cover (106) to bring the first set of switching
elements (124) in contact with the second set of switching elements (126), in response
to receiving an actuation force on the user interface knob surface (116), to make an
electrical connection.
7. The integrated switch as claimed in 6, the plunger (118) floats/toggles on the cam
profile (138) via the roller ball mechanism (122) of the plunger (118).
8. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein the menu/selector switch (102)
is provided with four micro switches or four pair of fixed contact tracks forming part
of the of the first set of switching elements (124) to make an electrical connection
with their corresponding four moving contact (134) forming part of the second set of
switching elements (126), each for X+ (left) position, X-(right) position, Y+ (down)
position and Y- (up) position.
9. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 1, the plunger (118) is provided with a
lateral wall (140) protruding from the plunger (118) to push the micro switch (130)
disposed on the first end (128a) of the PCB (128) in response to the center push
actuation of the user interface knob surface (116).
10. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein the second end (132b) of carrier
(132) is provided with a plurality of stopper pillars (142).
11. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 10, the base cover (106) comprises a
plurality of stopper slots (144) that co-operate with the plurality of stopper pillar (142)
to restrict a level of travel of the carrier (132).
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12. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein the carrier (132) comprises four
stopper pillars (142) with their corresponding stopper slots (144) in the base cover
(106), each for X+(left) position, X-(right) position, Y+ (down) position , Y- (up)
position respectively.
13. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein the shape of the moving contact
(134) may be in the form of trident shape or resistor shape.
14. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein a protective means (146) is
provided between actuation means (110) and the housing (104) to prevent ingress of
foreign contaminants.
15. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing (104) is provided
with a pair of orifices (148a,148b) for wire harnesses, the pair of orifices (148,148b)
is provided with a sealing member (150) to prevent ingress of foreign contaminant.
16. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the push switch (114)
comprising:
a pair of pivot elements (152a, 152b) arranged side by side on the lateral wall
(112);
a knob (154) pivotally mounted on said pivot elements (152a, 152b) via a
pivot pin (156);
a fixed contact member (158) being disposed on the lateral wall (112); and
a moving contact member (160) being disposed inside the knob (154) such
that upon actuation the moving contact member (160) comes in contact with the fixed
contact member (158) to make an electrical connection.
17. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 16, wherein the push switch (114) further
comprises a resilient means (162) between the knob (154) and the lateral wall (112)
and is adapted to provide a restoring force to the knob (154).
18. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 16, wherein the knob (154) is provided with
a male stopper means (164) and the lateral wall (112) is provided with a female
stopper means (166) to prevent the knob (154) from being over-pressed after fulltravel.
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19. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 16, wherein the pivot pin (156) comprises a
first end (156a) and a second end (156b), one of the first end (156a) or second end
(156b) comprises a pair of split ends (168a,168b) to be folder over one of the pivot
element (152a/152b).
20. The integrated switch as claimed in claim 16, wherein the fixed contact member (158)
is provided with an insulating sheet (172).