Actuation Knob With Integrated Padlocking Link and Compliant Slider
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lockable switches with integrated padlocking links are costly and complex due to multiple components and precision assembly, and sliding or slider type mechanisms require complex tooling for manufacture.
Innovation Solution
An actuation knob with a slidable portion that slides or rotates relative to a first axis, featuring compliant mechanisms biased away from a second axis and offset along a plane, allowing for a single-piece design that can be easily assembled without complex tooling, and includes an aperture for locking to prevent unintended position changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rotating lever type padlocking link is used, then the lockable actuating means can be provided, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase due to multiple components and precision assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the padlocking link functionality directly into the actuation knob by integrating a slidable portion with compliant mechanisms into the single piece. This eliminates the need for separate pivots, hinges, and springs that would be required in a traditional rotating lever type design, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the lockable actuating means functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The compliant mechanisms in the slidable portion automatically engage with recesses in the slot to provide locking and retention functionality without requiring external springs or additional components. The compliant mechanisms themselves provide the necessary mechanical advantage and retention force, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for precision assembly of multiple parts.
2Reliability
If a sliding or slider type padlocking link is used, then the lockable actuating means can be provided, but complex tooling is required for manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The padlocking link is merged into the actuation knob as an integrated slidable portion that can be manufactured as a single piece using conventional molding or machining processes. This integration eliminates the need for complex assembly tooling while maintaining the sliding mechanism functionality for providing lockable actuating means.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses compliant mechanisms that change their mechanical parameters (flexibility, engagement position) based on their interaction with the slot recesses. This allows the slidable portion to provide reliable locking functionality through material compliance rather than complex mechanical linkages, simplifying the manufacturing tooling requirements.
3Reliability
If traditional multi-component padlocking mechanisms are used, then locking functionality is provided, but the actuation knob size increases and ergonomics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The slidable portion with compliant mechanisms is nested within the actuation knob body, with the slidable portion fitting into a slot in the engagement portion. This nesting arrangement allows the locking mechanism to be contained within the compact actuation knob structure, maintaining ergonomic dimensions while providing reliable locking functionality through the integrated compliant mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a robust, cost-effective, and ergonomic actuation knob with integrated padlocking means that is easier to manufacture and enhances safety by allowing one-handed locking and preventing accidental position changes.
Implementation Method 1
The slidable portion comprises at least two compliant mechanisms biased in a direction away from the second axis and offset from one another in a direction perpendicular to the second axis along a plane of the slidable portion
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments relate to an actuation knob for use in opening and closing a switch, and a device and system comprising the same. The actuation knob is configured to move with respect to a first axis and includes: an engagement portion configured for engagement by a user, the engagement portion having a slot; and a slidable portion disposed within the slot and configured to slide relative to the engagement portion. The slidable portion is configured to slide between a first position and a second position along a second axis, wherein the first and second axes are non-parallel. The slidable portion comprises at least two compliant mechanisms biased in a direction away from the second axis and offset from one another in a direction perpendicular to the second axis along a plane of the slidable portion.