Actuator Signal Display via Light Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuators for switching units in safety applications face challenges in ensuring a secure mechanical connection between the actuator and switching elements, which is crucial for emergency stop functions, and integrating an optical display without obstructing the light path to the actuating head, especially within the constraints of a standardized installation diameter.
Innovation Solution
An actuator design featuring a two-part housing with a mushroom-shaped actuating head and a rosette, incorporating a light guide within a spiral spring element to direct LED light unobstructed to the actuating head, allowing for a clear signal display and secure mechanical fastening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the locking arrangement is arranged between the lighting element and the actuating head, then the mechanical connection is secured, but the light path is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
A light guide is introduced as an intermediary component between the lighting element and the actuating head. The light guide has a first end that receives light from the lighting element and a second end that transmits light to the actuating head, allowing the locking arrangement to be positioned without blocking the light path while maintaining mechanical connection security
Solution Approach 2:
The light path is redirected through a different spatial dimension by using the light guide to transmit light along the longitudinal axis of the actuator, bypassing the region where the locking arrangement is positioned between the lighting element and actuating head
2Adaptability or versatility
If an additional command point with indicator light is used, then the optical display function is achieved, but the installation space and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical display function is merged with the existing actuator structure by integrating the lighting element into the actuator housing and using the actuating head as the display surface, eliminating the need for separate command points and indicator lights
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating head serves multiple functions: it acts as both the mechanical actuation component and the optical display surface, while the lighting element provides both illumination and signal indication, reducing the overall component count
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
This design ensures a secure mechanical connection and unhindered light guidance to the actuating head, enhancing the visibility of the switching state and maintaining the actuator's reliability and cost-effectiveness while meeting safety and space constraints.
Implementation Method 1
the light from the LED being guided via a light guide arranged directly above the LED when it is actuated
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to an actuator for switching a switching unit, said actuator comprising a display having a display surface (14) and an illumination element. The invention is characterized in that the illumination element is designed as a LED (10), wherein the light of the LED (10) is guided through a light conductor (7), which is arranged directly above the LED (10) in the actuated state.