Description:

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

EMERGENCY SWITCH FOR USE IN AUTOMOBILES

Napino Auto & Electronics Ltd., an Indian Company of Sec-3 Plot No. 7, Sector 3, IMT Manesar, Distt-Gurgaon – 122050, Haryana

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

Field of the Invention:
The present invention generally relates to the field of switches. Particularly, the present invention relates to an emergency 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. Increasingly, emergency switch is being disposed on the vehicles. The purpose of disposing an emergency switch is to enable a user (which may be a person driving the vehicle or a person who may be passenger or any person who may be even passing-by) to actuate the switch. In response to detecting actuation of the emergency switch, a variety of actions can be initiated. For instance, a call may be automatically placed on one or more pre-stored numbers which may be belong to family members or friends. By way of another example, a text message may be automatically placed on one or more pre-stored numbers which may belong to family members or friends. By way of yet another instance, a call may be automatically placed or a text message may be automatically sent to rescue control centre or hospital or ambulance or police.

Disposing an emergency switch on the handle bar of a two wheeled vehicle or a muti-terrain vehicle or similar vehicles has however been a challenge. One of the traditional mechanisms adopted to dispose an emergency switch on the handle bar of a two wheeled vehicle includes providing a structure that can be mounted on the handle bar structure accommodates only the emergency switch. Reference in this regard may be made to dguard® which is being made available by DIGADES GmbH. Some of the disadvantages of this kind of emergency switch include the high probability of accidental (or un-intended) actuation of the emergency switch. The high costing of the emergency switch, as the emergency switch is accommodated in a separate structure. The space constraints to accommodate the separate structure on the handle bar, which is already having limited space. Apart from the above, the internal design of the emergency switch cannot be customized to accommodate different types of switching elements, depending upon cost, current rating etc.

Reference may be made to BMW R 1250 GS which incorporates another traditional handle bar mounted structure that incorporates an emergency switch. The handle bar mounted structure incorporated in BMW R 1250 GS includes a cover which may be opened to gain access to the emergency switch and closed to restrict access to the emergency switch. Some of the disadvantages of this kind of emergency switch include high costing of the emergency switch, as the emergency switch is accommodated in a separate structure. The space constraints to accommodate the separate structure on the handle bar, which is already having limited space. Apart from the above, the internal design of the emergency switch cannot be customized to accommodate different types of switching elements, depending upon cost, current rating etc.

Thus, there exists a need to provide an emergency switch that can address one or more disadvantages as described above. For instance, there is still a need to provide an emergency switch which is simple in terms of its construction, which is easy to manufacture, which can be manufactured at a reasonable price, and which occupies less space.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
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 emergency switch (100) comprising a first chamber (102) defined by a casing (104) and a cover element (106); a switching element (108) disposed within the first chamber (102); a cap (110) joined to the casing (104) and being pivotable between a first position where the cap (110) provides access for actuating the switching element (108) and a second position where the cap (110) at least partially restricts access for actuating the switching element (108); the cap (110) defining a first detent profile (112); and a ball-spring-ball mechanism (114) adapted to co-operate with the detent profile (112) to hold the cap (110) in the second position; the ball-spring-ball mechanism (114) being positioned within a second chamber (116) formed on a top surface (118) of the casing (104).

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 the emergency switch (100) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 illustrates a close-up view of the cap showing particularly the first and the second detent profiles in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 3 illustrates a close-up view of the casing showing particularly the first and the second apertures in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 4 illustrates a close-up view of the knob member showing particularly the pillars formed on an underside of the knob member in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of the emergency switch (100) wherein the cap is in the second position whereby the cap (110) restricts access for actuating the switching element (108) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and
Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of the emergency switch (100) wherein the cap is in the first position whereby the cap (110) allows access for actuating the switching element (108) in accordance with an embodiment of the present 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 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.

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, the emergency switch (100) comprises a first chamber (102) defined by a casing (104) and a cover element (106). A switching element (108) is disposed within the first chamber (102). In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, a cap (110) is joined to the casing (104). The cap (110) is pivotable with respect to the casing (104). The cap is pivotable between a first position and a second position, wherein at first position, the cap (110) provides access for actuating the switching element (108) and at the second position the cap (110) at least partially restricts access for actuating the switching element (108). As best seen in Figure 2, the cap (110) defines a first detent profile (112). Referring back to Figure 1, the emergency switch (100) comprises a ball-spring-ball mechanism (114). The ball-spring-ball mechanism (114) is adapted to co-operate with the detent profile (112) to hold the cap (110) in the second position. In an embodiment of the invention the ball-spring-ball mechanism (114) is positioned within a second chamber (116) formed on a top surface (118) of the casing (104). In an embodiment of the invention, the cap (110) is joined to the casing (104) via a shaft (120).

Now referring specifically to Figure 3, in an embodiment of the invention, the casing (104) includes a first aperture (124) for allowing the switching element (108) to traverse therethrough and come in contact with a knob member (122). In an embodiment of the invention, the knob member (122) is adapted receive and transfer an actuating force to the switching element (108). Additionally, the casing (104) includes a second set of apertures (126). Referring specifically to Figure 4, the knob member (122) includes a set of pillars (128). In an embodiment of the invention, the knob set of pillars (128) as formed on the knob member (122) are adapted to traverse through the second set of recesses (126) provided in the casing (104).

In an optional embodiment of the invention, the cap (110) defines a second detent profile (130); and the ball-spring-ball mechanism (114) is adapted to co-operate with the second detent profile (130) to hold the cap (110) in the first position.

Referring back to Figure 1, the emergency switch further comprises a grommet (132) for covering the switching element (108). Also, the emergency switch further comprises a resilient member (134) disposed between the top surface of the casing (104) and an underside of the knob member (122) for providing a restoring force to the knob member (122). In an embodiment of the invention, the switching element (108) is a micro-switch.

As best seen from Figures 5 and 6, the cap is pivotable between a first position and a second position, wherein at first position, the cap (110) provides access for actuating the switching element (108) and at the second position the cap (110) at least partially restricts access for actuating the switching element (108). It can be seen that to actuate the switching element, the cap has to be moved from the first position to the second position. By merely pressing the cap which is parked in the first position, the switching element cannot be actuated. The first detent profile (112) co-operates with the ball-spring-ball mechanism (114) to hold the cap (110) in the second position. The second detent profile (130) provided in the cap (110) is optional and if provided, it co-operates with the ball-spring-ball mechanism (114) to hold the cap (110) in the first position.

Since the cap (110) gets parked in the first position, by pressing the cap itself, the switching element (108) cannot be actuated. Thus, to actuate the switching element (108), physical contact with the switching element (108) per se is required. Thus, in one embodiment of the invention, movement of the cap from the first position to the second position becomes essential for actuating the switching element (108).

It may be noted that the micro switch used as the switching element (108) may have a variety of constructions. By way of example, the micro switch may have a construction as shown in Applicant’s copending Indian Patent Application No. 202011017499, contents of which are being incorporated herein. By way of another example, the micro switch (122) may have a construction as shown in Applicant’s co-pending Indian Patent Application No. 202011017499, contents of which are being incorporated herein. By way of yet another example, the micro switch (122) may have a construction as shown in Applicant’s co-pending Indian Patent Application No. 20201002998, contents of which are being incorporated herein. By way of still another example, the micro switch (122) may have a construction as shown in Applicant’s co-pending Indian Patent Application No. 20201002998, contents of which are being incorporated herein.

The emergency switch constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention can be made as part of a conventional handlebar switch console or may be disposed on a front cowl without having the need to providing a separate structure. Thus it overcomes the disadvantages associated with the traditional switches described in the background section.

Attention is drawn to Applicant’s co-pending Application No. 202111013160 dated march 25, 2021, which also discloses an emergency switch. Compared to the emergency switch described in Application No. 202111013160; the emergency switch of the present invention comprises lesser number of parts and hence, its overall size can comparatively smaller.

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.

The figures and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed.

Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. 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.
, Claims: WE CLAIM:

1. An emergency switch (100) comprising:
a first chamber (102) defined by a casing (104) and a cover element (106);
a switching element (108) disposed within the first chamber (102);
a cap (110) joined to the casing (104) and being pivotable between a first position where the cap (110) provides access for actuating the switching element (108) and a second position where the cap (110) at least partially restricts access for actuating the switching element (108); the cap (110) defining a first detent profile (112); and
a ball-spring-ball mechanism (114) adapted to co-operate with the detent profile (112) to hold the cap (110) in the second position; the ball-spring-ball mechanism (114) being positioned within a second chamber (116) formed on a top surface (118) of the casing (104).

2. The emergency switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cap (110) is joined to the casing (104) via a shaft (120).

3. The emergency switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the casing (104) includes a first aperture (124) for allowing the switching element (108) to traverse therethrough and come in contact with a knob member (122), the knob member (122) being adapted receive and transfer an actuating force to the switching element (108).

4. The emergency switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the casing (104) includes a second set of apertures (126) and the knob member (122) includes a set of pillars (128) adapted to traverse through the second set of recesses (126).

5. The emergency switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cap (110) defines a second detent profile (130); and the ball-spring-ball mechanism (114) is adapted to co-operate with the second detent profile (130) to hold the cap (110) in the first position.

6. The emergency switch as claimed in claim 1, comprising a grommet (132) for covering the switching element (108).

7. The emergency switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein a resilient member (134) is disposed between the top surface of the casing (104) and an underside of the knob member (122) for providing a restoring force to the knob member (122).

8. The emergency switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the switching element (108) is a micro-switch.