Configurable mechanism for actuating a switch

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a switching mechanism (100) and a system comprising said switching mechanism. The switching mechanism (100) comprises a first gear (102) configured to couple to an actuating mechanism of a first switch (502), wherein rotation of the first gear about a first axis (114) causes the first switch to open or close. The switching mechanism comprises a second gear (104) configured to couple to an actuating mechanism of a second switch (504), wherein rotation of the second gear about a second axis (116) causes the second switch to open or close. The switching mechanism comprises a third gear (118) configured to engage with the first and second gears. Rotation of the third gear in a first direction about a third axis causes rotation of the second gear. Rotation of the third gear in a second direction opposite the first direction causes rotation of the first gear.

Description

[0001] Configurable mechanism for actuating a switch

[0002] Field

[0003] This relates to a mechanism for actuating a switch. In particular, this relates to a mechanism which can actuate two separate switches. Such a mechanism can be implemented as a changeover mechanism which switches between different power sources, for example.

[0004] Background

[0005] A changeover switch or changeover mechanism can ensure that a generator can be turned on quickly when a power failure occurs. The changeover mechanism can connect and disconnect a device or load from the main grid and / or shift to back up power supply from a generator, as needed. Typically, such changeover mechanisms have rotary mechanisms, allowing users to physically switch between the different power sources.

[0006] When switching between different power sources, it can be desirable to actuate two separate switches using a single changeover mechanism, to help ensure a continuous and reliable supply of power, for example. It can also be desirable to operate two separate switches simultaneously.

[0007] Summary

[0008] According to a first aspect, a switching mechanism is provided in accordance with independent claim 1. A system is provided in accordance with claim 15.

[0009] Disclosed herein is a switching mechanism and a system comprising said switching mechanism.

[0010] The switching mechanism comprises a first gear configured to couple to an actuating mechanism of a first switch, wherein rotation of the first gear about a first axis causes the first switch to open or close. The switching mechanism comprises a second gear configured to couple to an actuating mechanism of a second switch, wherein rotation of the second gear about a second axis causes the second switch to open or close. The switching mechanism comprises a third gear configured to engage with the first and second gears. Rotation of the third gear in a first direction about a third axis causes rotation of the second gear. Rotation of the third gear in a second direction opposite the first direction causes rotation of the first gear. In this way, a modular switching mechanism can be provided in which the geometry of the gears can be changed to enable a user to actuate two separate switches with a single switching (changeover) mechanism or to operate two separate switches simultaneously. The switching mechanism is designed such that a user can actuate two (or more) rotary switches with a single means of rotation / input. Gear mating pairs are positioned within the switching mechanism such that there is flexibility within the mechanism to operate respective mating gears with clockwise rotation and / or anti-clockwise rotation as required. The switching mechanism can be assembled in a modular manner, reusing many components to facilitate a modular, configurable, switching mechanism which can be easily integrated into existing switches. This can reduce the manufacturing and installation cost of the switching mechanism.

[0011] The third gear may have different types of gear teeth arrangement. The gear teeth arrangement can determine a type of operation of the switching mechanism. In other words, the third gear may have different arrangements or configurations of teeth so as to facilitate a change in switching mechanism without changing other components of the switching mechanism. By switching only the third gear, The switching mechanism can be assembled in a modular manner, reusing many components to facilitate a modular, configurable, switching mechanism which can be easily integrated into existing switches. This can reduce the manufacturing and installation cost of the switching mechanism.

[0012] In some examples, the first, second and third axes are parallel to one another. In some examples, a centre of axis of rotation of the first, second and third gears are collinear with one another. In other words, the first, second and third axes are arranged along a single line (offset from one another in only one direction).

[0013] In some examples, the third gear is arranged between the first gear and the second gear. Optionally, the first, second and third gears are arranged collinearly within a single plane. Optionally, the first, second and third axes of rotation are arranged along collinearly, i.e. along a single line. This can provide a modular switching mechanism with a compact footprint.

[0014] In one implementation or configuration, also called herein a changeover mechanism, the third gear is configured to engage directly with the first gear and the third gear is configured to engage with the second gear via a linear gear. In this way, the switching mechanism comprises a gear to gear pair (which may be a spur gear or any other kind of direct gear to gear pair) and a rack and pinion gear pair to convert rotational movement into linear movement, and vice versa.

[0015] In this example, the rotation of the third gear in the first direction (from a central position) causes a rotation of the second gear in the first direction about the second axis. Moreover, the rotation of the third gear in the second direction (from the central position) causes a rotation of the first gear in the first direction about the second axis. Optionally, the switching mechanism is configured such that when the third gear rotates in the first direction (from the central position), the first gear does not rotate, and when the third gear rotates in the second direction (from the central position), the second gear does not rotate. This allows for e.g. selection between two different power sources, for example.

[0016] Optionally, at least one gear tooth of the third gear is cropped to prevent engagement with the linear gear when the third gear rotates in the second direction from the central position. Any other mechanism by which the mating gear pairs may be provided from engaging can be provided.

[0017] In another implementation or configuration, also called herein a multiple (or multipole) mechanism, the third gear is configured to engage with the first gear via a first linear gear and the third gear is configured to engage with the second gear via a second linear gear. In this way, the switching mechanism comprises two rack and pinion gear pairs to convert rotational movement into linear movement and linear movement again into rotational movement, and vice versa.

[0018] In this example, rotation of the third gear in the first direction causes a rotation of the first gear in the first direction about the first axis and a rotation of the second gear in the first direction about the second axis. Correspondingly, rotation of the third gear in the second direction causes a rotation of the first gear in the second direction about the first axis and a rotation of the second gear in the second direction about the second axis. In this way two (or more switches) can be operated simultaneously.

[0019] Optionally, the first, second and third gears are disposed between the first and second linear gears. The first and second linear gears can be arranged facing one another, and can each be configured to slide in opposite linear directions in response to rotation of the third gear. In some implementations the switching mechanism further comprises a housing configured to couple to respective housings of the first and second switches. In this way, the switching mechanism can be configured to be retrofit to existing switches. By using a common housing, with different gear pairs inside depending on the different configuration required, a modular switching mechanism can be provided.

[0020] The first, second and third gears can be disposed within the housing. Optionally, an internal surface of the housing can comprise a stopper (or at least one stopper) configured to engage with each of the first, second and third gears to prevent rotation of the respective gears beyond a predetermined degree of rotation. Optionally, an internal surface of the housing can comprise a stopper (or at least one stopper) configured to engage with one or more linear gears to prevent movement of the respective one or more linear gears beyond a predetermined degree of linear movement. The one or more linear gears can comprise the first and / or second linear gears described herein, as appropriate.

[0021] Stoppers may be provided for any linear gears and / or rotational gears within the housing. The stoppers can stop rattling or movement of the gears in transit, which rattling can dislodge gears or disrupt alignment. The stoppers can also prevent user actuation of the gears beyond predefined degrees of rotation. A safer and more reliable mechanism may therefore be provided.

[0022] Optionally, the switching mechanism further comprises an engagement knob external to the housing and coupled to the third gear. The engagement knob is configured to cause rotation of the third gear about the third axis in response to user rotation of the engagement knob. Optionally, the engagement knob comprises an extendible portion, and an external surface of the housing comprises one or more recesses configured to receive the extendible portion to prevent user rotation of the engagement knob. The housing can be configured such that the extendible portion can only be extended from the knob when it aligns with the recesses. These recesses can act as an external stop, prevent rotation of the third gear.

[0023] In some examples, the extendible portion can be padlocked, thereby acting to lock the third gear in certain positions and preventing unauthorized user actuation. A safer mechanism may therefore be provided.

[0024] Also disclosed herein is a system comprising: a first switch; a second switch; and a switching mechanism as described above. List of Figures

[0025] The detailed description is with reference to the following figures.

[0026] FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of a switching mechanism as described herein. FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a first example switching mechanism.

[0027] FIG. 3A shows a perspective of a second example switching mechanism, FIG. 3B shows a section view of the mechanism of FIG. 3A, FIG. 3C shows a front view of a portion of an example third gear of the second example switching mechanism, and FIG. 3D shows a perspective view of a top of a housing of the second example switching mechanism.

[0028] FIG. 4A shows a front view of a first example switching mechanism in a first, central position, and FIG. 4B shows a front view of the mechanism of FIG. 4A after rotation of the third gear in a first direction.

[0029] FIG. 5A shows a front view of a second example switching mechanism in a first, central, position, FIG. 5B shows a front view of the mechanism of FIG. 5A after rotation of the first gear in a second direction, and FIG. 5C shows a front view of the mechanism of FIG. 5A after rotation of the first gear in a first direction.

[0030] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a system comprising a switching mechanism as described herein, including either the first or second example switching mechanisms.

[0031] Like reference numerals refer to like features.

[0032] Detailed description

[0033] Disclosed herein is a modular switching mechanism which can provide a single changeover mechanism to actuate two separate switches, or allow to actuate two separate switches simultaneously. A system comprising said switching mechanism is also disclosed.

[0034] With reference to FIG. 1, a switching mechanism 100 comprises a first gear 102 configured to couple to an actuating mechanism of a first switch 502, wherein rotation of the first gear about a first axis 114 causes the first switch to open or close. The orientation of the gear 102 and the axis 114 shown here is for illustrative purposes only to demonstrate the relationship between the gear and the switch, and it will be understood that the first axis 114 passes into the page.

[0035] The switching mechanism 100 comprises a second gear 104 configured to couple to an actuating mechanism of a second switch 504, wherein rotation of the second gear about a second axis 116 causes the second switch to open or close. The orientation of the gear 104 and the axis 116 shown here is for illustrative purposes only to demonstrate the relationship between the gear and the switch, and it will be understood that the second axis 116 passes into the page.

[0036] The switching mechanism 100 comprises a third gear 106 configured to engage with the first and second gears 102, 104. Rotation of the third gear 106 in a first direction about a third axis 118 causes rotation of the second gear. Rotation of the third gear in a second direction opposite the first direction causes rotation of the first gear. The orientation of the gear 106 and the axis 118 shown here is for illustrative purposes only to demonstrate the relationship between the gear and the switch, and it will be understood that the third axis 118 passes into the page.

[0037] Any suitable engagement of the first, second and third gears 102, 104, 106 can be provided to enable the desired rotation of the first and second gears and the subsequent actuation of the first and second switches 502, 504.

[0038] The third gear may have different types of gear teeth arrangement. The gear teeth arrangement can determine a type of operation of the switching mechanism. In this way, a modular switching mechanism can be provided in which the geometry of the gears can be changed to enable a user to actuate two (or more, depending on the actuation of the switches) separate switches 502, 504. The switching mechanism is designed such that a user can actuate two (or more) rotary switches with a single means of rotation / input of the third gear 106. Gear mating pairs are positioned within the switching mechanism 100 such that there is flexibility within the mechanism to operate respective mating gears with clockwise rotation and / or anti-clockwise rotation as required. The switching mechanism 100 can be assembled in a modular manner, reusing many components to facilitate a modular, configurable, switching mechanism which can be easily integrated into existing switches. This can reduce the manufacturing and installation cost of the switching mechanism.

[0039] In this example, the first, second and third axes are parallel to one another.

[0040] Moreover, the third gear 106 is arranged between the first gear 102 and the second gear 104. In particular, the first, second and third gears 102, 104, 106 are arranged collinearly within a single plane. In this way, the first, second and third axes 114, 116, 118 of rotation are arranged along collinearly, i.e. along a single line (shown by the dotted line in FIG. 1). This arrangement can provide a modular switching mechanism with a compact footprint. However, any other suitable alignment or configuration of the gears can be provided. Moreover, any suitable engagement between the gears can be used. In other words, any suitable pairs or chains of gears can be provided to facilitate the power transmission from the third gear 106 to the first 102 and / or second 104 gears.

[0041] In some implementations the switching mechanism further comprises a housing 108 configured to couple to respective housings of the first and second switches 502, 504. In this way, the switching mechanism can be configured to be retrofit to existing switches. By using a common housing 108, with different gear pairs inside depending on the different configuration required, a modular switching mechanism can be provided in a simple and cost effective manner.

[0042] The first, second and third gears 102, 104, 106 can be disposed within the housing, as shown in FIG. 1. In this implementation, the switching mechanism 100 further comprises an engagement knob 506 external to the housing 108 and coupled to the third gear 106. The engagement knob 506 is configured to cause rotation of the third gear about the third axis 118 in response to user rotation of the engagement knob. In this way, two or more switches 502, 504 can be actuated by input to a single rotary component, knob 506. It will be understood that the knob 506 can be disposed along the axis 118 or arranged in any other suitable position to cause rotation of the third gear 106 around the axis 118.

[0043] Some particular implementations of the switching mechanism are now discussed in more detail with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5C.

[0044] In accordance with FIG. 2 and FIGS. 4A, 4B, a first example implementation of the switching mechanism 100 is now described. This first example implementation 100' or configuration is called herein a multiple (or multipole) mechanism. In this arrangement, two or more switches (such as 502, 504) are configured to operated simultaneously. In this way, multiple switches can be turned ON or OFF together. This can allow for simultaneous actuation of each pole of a multipole switch, for example.

[0045] As described above with respect to FIG. 1, the first example switching mechanism 100' of FIG. 2 comprises a first gear 102 configured to couple to an actuating mechanism of a first switch, wherein rotation of the first gear about a first axis 114 causes the first switch to open or close. In other words, the first gear output is connected to the input operation of switch 502 (not shown). The orientation of the gear 102 and the axis 114 shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B is for illustrative purposes only to demonstrate the relationship between the gear and the switch, and it will be understood that the first axis 114 passes into the page.

[0046] The switching mechanism 100 comprises a second gear 104 configured to couple to an actuating mechanism of a second switch 504, wherein rotation of the second gear about a second axis 116 causes the second switch to open or close. In other words, the second gear output is connected to the input operation of switch 504 (not shown). The orientation of the gear 104 and the axis 116 shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B is for illustrative purposes only to demonstrate the relationship between the gear and the switch, and it will be understood that the second axis 116 passes into the page.

[0047] The switching mechanism 100' comprises a third gear 106 configured to engage with the first and second gears 102, 104. Rotation of the third gear 106 in a first direction about a third axis 118 causes rotation of the second gear. Rotation of the third gear in a second direction opposite the first direction causes rotation of the first gear. The orientation of the gear 106 and the axis 118 shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B is for illustrative purposes only to demonstrate the relationship between the gear and the switch, and it will be understood that the third axis 118 passes into the page.

[0048] The switching mechanism further comprises a housing 108. The first, second and third gears 102, 104, 106 are disposed within the housing, as shown in FIG. 2. A shaft 122 extends from the third gear, outside of the housing 108, and can be either coupled to the third gear or formed integrally with it. An engagement knob (not shown) can be coupled to or otherwise disposed on said shaft 122 to facilitate actuation of the third gear 106.

[0049] In this first example, the third gear 106 is configured to engage with the first gear 102 via a first linear gear 110. The third gear is configured to engage with the second gear 104 via a second linear gear 112. In this way, the switching mechanism 100' of the first example comprises two rack and pinion gear pairs to convert rotational movement of the third gear 106 into linear movement, and then back to rotational movement of the first and second gears 102, 104. Any suitable engagement of the first, second and third gears 102, 104, 106 and the linear (or rail) gears 110, 112 can be provided to enable the desired rotation of the first and second gears.

[0050] In this specific example, the first, second and third gears 102, 104, 106 are disposed between the first and second linear gears 110, 112. The first and second linear gears are arranged facing one another, and are each configured to slide in opposite linear directions 130, 132 in response to rotation of the third gear. In particular, as the third gear rotates in the first rotational direction 126, the first linear gear 110 is configured to move in a first linear direction 130 and the second linear gear 112 is configured to move in a second linear direction 132 opposite the first 130.

[0051] As a result, and as shown in FIG. 4A, rotation of the third gear in the first direction 126 from the central position of FIG. 4A causes a rotation of the first gear 102 in the first direction 126 about the first axis 114 and a rotation of the second gear 104 in the first direction 126 about the second axis 116. In this example, the first direction corresponds to a clockwise rotation of the third gear of FIG. 4A. Correspondingly, rotation of the third gear in the second direction (i.e. from the position of FIG. 4B towards the central position of FIG. 4A) causes a rotation of the first gear in the second direction about the first axis and a rotation of the second gear in the second direction about the second axis. In this example, the second direction corresponds to an anti-clockwise rotation of the third gear of FIG. 4A.

[0052] Similarly, it will be understood that rotation of the third gear in the second direction from the central position of FIG. 4A (now shown here) causes a rotation of the first gear 102 in the second direction about the first axis 114 and a rotation of the second gear 104 in the second direction about the second axis 116. In this way two (or more switches) can be operated simultaneously. This operation can be to turn both switches 502, 504 on simultaneously, off simultaneously, or one off and one on simultaneously, depending on the arrangement and configuration of the switches.

[0053] In this specific example, each gear is configured to rotate by 90 degrees either way from the central position of FIG. 4A. The central position of FIG. 4A can (in some implementations) correspond to an OFF position or state. As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, a 90 degree clockwise rotation of the third gear 106 leads to a linear movement of the linear gears (or racks) 110, 112. Moving from e.g. an OFF position in FIG. 4A to an ON position or state in FIG. 4B, the second linear gear or rack 112 moves rack moves in direction 132 towards the right hand side and the first linear gear or rack 110 moves in direction 130 towards the left hand side; this linear movement in directions 130, 132 leads to a clockwise rotation by 90 degrees of the first and second gears 102, 104 into the ON state. During the ON to OFF state (e.g. FIG. 4B to FIG. 4A), this movement is reversible with 90 degree anti-clockwise rotation of the third gear 106. In this way, both switches can be operated at the same time. However, this is an example only and other degrees of rotation can be used, depending on e.g. the specific application and size of the switching mechanism. In some examples, multiple gears may engage with each rack, facilitating operation of more than two rotary switches in response to rotation of the third gear 106. The size and arrangement of the gears can be selected in accordance with the desired operation, as would be understood by the skilled person.

[0054] In accordance with FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C, a second example implementation of the switching mechanism 100 is now described. This second example implementation 100" or configuration is called herein a changeover mechanism. In this arrangement, two or more switches (such as 502, 504) are configured to operated one at a time, but using a single input means. In this way, a user can actuate two separate switches with a single switching (changeover) mechanism to help ensure a continuous and reliable supply of power, for example when switching between different power sources. This allows for e.g. selection between two different power sources, such as grid power and back-up power supplies, for example.

[0055] As described above with respect to FIG. 1, the second example switching mechanism 100" of FIG. 3A comprises a first gear 102 configured to couple to an actuating mechanism of a first switch, wherein rotation of the first gear about a first axis 114 causes the first switch to open or close. The orientation of the gear 102 and the axis 114 shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C is for illustrative purposes only to demonstrate the relationship between the gear and the switch, and it will be understood that the first axis 114 passes into the page.

[0056] The switching mechanism 100" comprises a second gear 104 configured to couple to an actuating mechanism of a second switch 504, wherein rotation of the second gear about a second axis 116 causes the second switch to open or close. The orientation of the gear 104 and the axis 116 shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C is for illustrative purposes only to demonstrate the relationship between the gear and the switch, and it will be understood that the second axis 116 passes into the page.

[0057] The switching mechanism 100" comprises a third gear 106 configured to engage with the first and second gears 102, 104. Rotation of the third gear 106 in a first direction about a third axis 118 causes rotation of the second gear. Rotation of the third gear in a second direction opposite the first direction causes rotation of the first gear. The orientation of the gear 106 and the axis 118 shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C is for illustrative purposes only to demonstrate the relationship between the gear and the switch, and it will be understood that the third axis 118 passes into the page.

[0058] The switching mechanism further comprises a housing 108. The first, second and third gears 102, 104, 106 are disposed within the housing, as shown in FIG. 3A. A shaft 122 extends from the third gear, outside of the housing 108, and can be either coupled to the third gear or formed integrally with it. An engagement knob (not shown) can be coupled to or otherwise disposed on said shaft 122 to facilitate actuation of the third gear 106.

[0059] In this second example, the third gear 106 is configured to engage directly with the first gear 102. The third gear is configured to engage with the second gear 104 via a linear gear 112'. The linear gear 112' is arranged (in this specific example) to be perpendicular to each of the axes of rotation 114, 116, 118 and parallel with the line of the gears 102, 104, 106. In this way, the switching mechanism comprises a gear to gear pair 102, 106 (which may be a spur gear or any other kind of direct gear to gear pair) and a rack and pinion gear pair 104, 112', 106 to convert rotational movement into linear movement, and then back to rotational movement of the second gear 104. Any suitable engagement of the first, second and third gears 102, 104, 106 and the linear (or rail) gear 112' can be provided to enable the desired rotation of the first and second gears.

[0060] In this specific example, the rotation of the third gear in the first direction 126 from the central position shown in FIG. 5A causes a rotation of the second gear 104 in the first direction 126 about the second axis (to the position shown in FIG. 5C). In this example, the first direction corresponds to a clockwise rotation of the third gear of FIG. 5A. The switching mechanism 100 is configured such that when the third gear 106 rotates in the first direction (from the central position), the first gear does not rotate (as can be seen by comparing FIGS. 5A and 5C). In this specific example of the mechanism 100", it can be seen that gear teeth of the first and third gears 102, 106 are arranged so as not to engage.

[0061] Conversely, the rotation of the third gear 106 in the second direction 128 from the central position of FIG. 5A causes a rotation of the first gear 102 in the first direction 126 about the second axis (to the position shown in FIG. 5B). In this example, the second direction corresponds to an anti-clockwise rotation of the third gear of FIG. 5A. The switching mechanism 100 is configured such that when the third gear rotates in the second direction from the central position, the second gear 104 does not rotate. In this specific example, at least one gear tooth 124 of the third gear 106 is cropped to prevent engagement with the linear gear 112' when the third gear 106 rotates in the second direction 128 from the central position of FIG. 5A. This can be seen in more detail in FIG. 3C. The gear tooth 124 at starred point 6 of FIG. 3C is cropped such that then the third gear 106 rotates clockwise, the gear tooth 124 engages with a tooth of the linear gear 112' (at starred point 7) and pulls the linear gear 112' in the first linear direction 130, thereby causing rotation of the second gear 104. However, when the third gear rotates anti-clockwise, the cropped gear tooth 124 does not engage with a tooth of the linear rack 112' (starred point 8 of FIG. 3C); instead the gear teeth engage with the first gear 102 (as shown in FIG. 5A). However, it will be understood that any other mechanism by which the mating gear pairs may be provided from engaging can be provided.

[0062] In this specific example, each gear is configured to rotate by 90 degrees either way from the central position of FIG. 5A. The central position is in some examples an OFF state or position in which the mechanism is at rest, and both the first and second gears are in OFF states or positions. To turn the left switch ON, and keep the right switch OFF, the third gear 106 is rotated anti-clockwise by 90 degrees, leading to a clockwise rotation of the first gear 102 and no movement of the second gear 104 (i.e. the right hand side gear and linear gear 112' or rack is not engaged). This is shown in FIG. 5B. To turn the left switch OFF and the right switch ON, the third gear is rotated from the position in FIG. 5A by 90 degrees clockwise, leading to engagement of the linear gear 112' and linear movement of the gear or rack in direction 130 towards the right hand side. Since the linear rack 112' and second and third gears form a gear rack and rack gear pair, the second gear 104 also rotates clockwise. There is no engagement of the first gear 102.

[0063] However, this is an example only and other degrees of rotation can be used, depending on e.g. the specific application and size of the switching mechanism. In some examples, multiple gears may engage with each rack, facilitating operation of more than two rotary switches in response to rotation of the third gear 106. The size and arrangement of the gears can be selected in accordance with the desired operation, as would be understood by the skilled person.

[0064] This second example mechanism provides solution for different switching scenarios where there is need of simultaneous operation of two or more switches with different electrical circuit connections. The gear shapes, gear teeth, etc. are designed and arranged so that they do not affect the movement of other gears during specific operations of the mechanism.

[0065] With further reference to FIG. 3B and FIG. 3D, some additional example implementations will now be described. Although shown in the context of the second example switching mechanism 100", it is understood that these features may be applied equally to the first example switching mechanism 100' described above with reference to FIG. 2 and / or the general switching mechanism 100 described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3A, the switching mechanism 100, 100', 100" can further comprises a housing 108 configured to couple to respective housings of the first and second switches. The first, second and third gears can be disposed within the housing. In this way, the switching mechanism can be configured to be retrofit to existing switches. By using a common housing, with different gear pairs inside depending on the different configuration required, a modular switching mechanism can be provided.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 3B, in some examples an internal surface 108a of the housing can comprise a stopper (or at least one stopper) configured to engage with each of the first, second and third gears to prevent rotation of the respective gears beyond a predetermined degree of rotation (illustrated at points 1, 2, 3 in FIG. 3B, represented by the starred points). These stopper features within the housing stop rotation of the first, second and third gears at the respective OFF and ON positions or states. This prevents over rotation of the gears, and ensures the gear teeth remain engaged during operation of the mechanism.

[0068] An additional engagement support can be provided (see starred point 4 in FIG. 3B) for the third gear 106. This engagement support can provide a flexible snap fit between the third gear and the housing 108, which can act to avoid undesired rotation of the third gear (i.e. due to small input forces and other unintended inputs). This can help ensure that operation of the mechanism is caused only by intended actuation or user input of the third gear 106.

[0069] Stoppers may also be provided for any linear gears within the housing (illustrated at starred point 5 in FIG. 3B). In other words, the rack and pinion gear components can be arranged within the housing 108 in such a way that they will not allow the user to rotate beyond the predetermined amount of rotation, thereby ensuring a positive connection is maintained between the rack and pinion teeth (or gear teeth). In this example, the stoppers can be provided in the form of racks or rails within the housing along which the racks or linear gears can slide in a linear direction. Although shown here for linear gear 112', similar stoppers may be provided for linear gears 110 and / or 112 described above.

[0070] The stoppers can stop rattling or movement of the gears 102, 104, 106 during movement or transit of the mechanism, which rattling can dislodge the gears or disrupt alignment of the gear teeth. The stoppers can also prevent user actuation of the gears beyond predefined degrees of rotation (in this example, 90 degrees). A safer and more reliable mechanism may therefore be provided which avoids over actuation of the switches 502, 504 to which the mechanism 100, 100', 100" is coupled.

[0071] In some examples, the switching mechanism further comprises an engagement knob (not shown) which is arranged external to the housing 108 and coupled to the third gear 106 via shaft 122. The engagement knob is configured to cause rotation of the third gear 106 about the third axis 118 in response to user rotation of the engagement knob. In some examples, the engagement knob comprises an extendible portion (not shown). With reference to FIG. 3D, an external surface 108b of the housing comprises one or more recesses 120 configured to receive the extendible portion to prevent user rotation of the engagement knob. The recesses 120 acts as stops, to prevent rotation of the knob and thus of the third gear 106.

[0072] The housing can be configured such that the extendible portion can only be extended from the knob when it aligns with the recesses 120. In this specific example, the recesses 120 correspond to the ON and OFF positions of the third gear (i.e. at a central position and 90 degrees clockwise and anti-clockwise from said central position). However, other positions can be provided, as required.

[0073] In some examples, the extendible portion can be padlocked, thereby acting to lock the third gear in certain ON / OFF positions and preventing unauthorized user actuation. By only allowing padlocking in certain orientations or positions of the third gear can prevent the mechanism from being locked in an intermediate state, for example. A safer mechanism may therefore be provided.

[0074] With reference to FIG. 6, a system 500 is illustrated. The system comprises a first switch 502 and a second switch 504. The system also comprises a switching mechanism 100, 100', 100" as described above. The switching mechanism can be actuated by engagement knob 506 via shaft 122.

[0075] By providing a switching mechanism 100, 100', 100" as described herein, a mechanical subsystem can be provided which can couple to and engage with existing switches to operate said switches in different configurations or modes of operation.

[0076] The third gear 106 may have different arrangements or configurations of teeth so as to facilitate a change in switching mechanism between arrangements 100' and 100" without changing the configuration of other components of the switching mechanism. By only changing the type of gear teeth arrangements of the third gear 106, the switching mechanism can be assembled in a modular manner, reusing many components to facilitate a modular, configurable, switching mechanism which can be easily integrated into existing switches. This can reduce the manufacturing and installation cost of the switching mechanism.

[0077] The gears can be configured with suitable rack and pinion gear arrangements for both multiple and changeover mechanisms, and the gear teeth can be designed for appropriate engagement for the different configurations needed for a given application. In one configuration, also called multiple operation, the third gear can operate two switches at a time (simultaneous operation). In another configuration, also called changeover operation, a single switch can be operated at a time, in dependence on the direction of rotation of the third gear. These different configurations can be packaged within a single housing in a modular manner, allowing that the footprint / dimensions of the mechanism and the means / architecture for fitting or integrating the mechanism to existing switches is common between configurations.

[0078] List of reference numerals

[0079] 100 switching mechanism

[0080] 100' first example switching mechanism

[0081] 100" second example switching mechanism

[0082] 102 first gear

[0083] 104 second gear

[0084] 106 third gear

[0085] 108 housing

[0086] 108a internal surface of the housing

[0087] 108b external surface of the housing

[0088] 110 first linear gear 112 second linear gear 112' linear gear

[0089] 114 first axis

[0090] 116 second axis

[0091] 118 third axis

[0092] 120 recesses

[0093] 122 shaft

[0094] 124 cropped gear tooth 126 first rotation direction 128 second rotation direction 130 first linear direction 132 second linear direction 500 system

[0095] 502 first switch

[0096] 504 second switch

[0097] 506 engagement knob

Claims

Claims1. A switching mechanism (100, 100', 100"), comprising:a first gear (102) configured to couple to an actuating mechanism of a first switch, wherein rotation of the first gear about a first axis (114) causes the first switch to open or close;a second gear (104) configured to couple to an actuating mechanism of a second switch, wherein rotation of the second gear about a second axis (116) causes the second switch to open or close; anda third gear (106) configured to engage with the first and second gears (102, 104), wherein :rotation of the third gear (118) in a first direction (126) about a third axis (118) causes rotation of the second gear, androtation of the third gear in a second direction (128) opposite the first direction causes rotation of the first gear.

2. The switching mechanism of claim 1, wherein the first, second and third axes are parallel to one another.

3. The switching mechanism of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the third gear is arranged between the first gear and the second gear.

4. The switching mechanism of claim 3, wherein the first, second and third gears are arranged collinearly within a single plane.

5. The switching mechanism (100") of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein:the third gear is configured to engage directly with the first gear; and the third gear is configured to engage with the second gear via a linear gear (112').

6. The switching mechanism of claim 5, wherein:the rotation of the third gear, in the first direction and from a central position, causes a rotation of the second gear in the first direction about the second axis; and the rotation of the third gear, in the second direction and from a central position, causes a rotation of the first gear in the first direction about the second axis.

7. The switching mechanism of claim 6, wherein the switching mechanism is configured such that:when the third gear rotates in the first direction from the central position, the first gear does not rotate; andwhen the third gear rotates in the second direction from the central position, the second gear does not rotate.

8. The switching mechanism of claim 7, wherein at least one gear tooth (124) of the third gear is cropped to prevent engagement with the linear gear when the third gear rotates in the second direction.

9. The switching mechanism (100') of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein:the third gear is configured to engage with the first gear via a first linear gear (110); andthe third gear is configured to engage with the second gear via a second linear gear (112).

10. The switching mechanism of claim 9, wherein:the rotation of the third gear in the first direction causes a rotation of the first gear in the first direction about the first axis and a rotation of the second gear in the first direction about the second axis; andthe rotation of the third gear in the second direction causes a rotation of the first gear in the second direction about the first axis and a rotation of the second gear in the second direction about the second axis.

11. The switching mechanism of claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the first, second and third gears are disposed between the first and second linear gears.

12. The switching mechanism of any preceding claim, further comprising a housing (108) configured to couple to respective housings of the first and second switches, the first, second and third gears disposed within the housing.

13. The switching mechanism of claim 12, an internal surface (108a) of the housing comprising:respective stoppers configured to engage with each of the first, second and third gears to prevent rotation of the respective gears beyond a predetermined degree of rotation; and / orrespective stoppers configured to engage with one or more linear gears to prevent movement of the respective one or more linear gears beyond a predetermined degree of linear movement.- 19 -14. The switching mechanism of claim 12 or claim 13, further comprising an engagement knob (506) external to the housing and coupled to the third gear, the engagement knob configured to cause rotation of the third gear about the third axis in response to user rotation of the engagement knob, wherein:the engagement knob comprises an extendible portion, andan external surface (108b) of the housing comprises one or more recesses (120) configured to receive the extendible portion to prevent user rotation of the engagement knob.

15. A system (500) comprising:a first switch (502);a second switch (504); andthe switching mechanism (100) of any preceding claim.

Images