Bi-stable Mechanical Latch With Positioning Spheres
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Normally open relays require solutions to reduce the number of components and increase the life length of the switch, as they often have complex configurations that can lead to reliability issues and reduced operational lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A bi-stable mechanical latch assembly featuring a housing with a bi-stable actuator, including a first core component with a central bore and shaft spring, and axially movable second and third core components, along with a positioning sphere that abuts different components to achieve stable ON and OFF positions, reducing the need for external forces to switch between states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a normally open relay uses a complex configuration to achieve switching functionality, then the switching capability is improved, but the component count increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple relay functions into a single integrated device. The bi-stable relay integrates both normally open and normally closed contact configurations within one unit, eliminating the need for separate relays. The housing contains integrated components including the coil assembly, armature, and both types of contacts, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full switching versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The bi-stable relay is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously. It can operate as both a normally open relay and a normally closed relay depending on the circuit configuration. The single device provides latching functionality, maintaining contact states without continuous power to the coil, and offers both open and closed contact options within the same housing, making it a universal switching solution.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a normally open relay uses a complex configuration with multiple components, then switching functionality is achieved, but the operational lifespan is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bi-stable relay employs a self-latching mechanism that maintains contact states without requiring continuous external energy input. Once the coil is energized to change state, the magnetic field holds the armature in position, and the spring maintains the opposite state when de-energized. This self-sustaining mechanism reduces wear on components compared to systems requiring continuous power application, thereby extending operational lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The relay is divided into distinct functional segments: the coil assembly, armature, spring mechanism, and contact sets. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and facilitates easier maintenance or replacement of individual parts without affecting the entire device, potentially extending the overall operational life through modular serviceability.
3Ease of operation
If external forces are used to switch between relay states, then switching control is achieved, but the mechanism becomes more complex and less reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex external mechanical switching mechanisms with an electromagnetic field-based system. The coil generates a magnetic field that directly actuates the armature through magnetic attraction, eliminating the need for external mechanical force application devices. This substitution simplifies the overall mechanism while maintaining ease of control through electrical signaling.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal spring mechanism automatically returns the armature to its default position when the coil is de-energized, without requiring external resetting forces. The system uses its own internal components (spring and magnetic field) to achieve state changes, eliminating the need for complex external forcing mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
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 bi-stable latch assembly enhances the reliability and longevity of the relay by simplifying the switching mechanism, reducing component count, and ensuring stable contact states without the need for excessive external forces, thereby improving the overall performance and lifespan of the switch.
Implementation Method 1
a shaft spring
Implementation Method 2
a positioning sphere extending through an opening of the first core component, wherein the positioning sphere abuts the second core component when the bi-stable actuator is in a first position, and wherein the positioning sphere abuts a detent of the shaft when the bi-stable actuator is in a second position
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein is an improved a bi-stable actuator including a first core component coupleable to a housing, the first core component including a central bore containing a shaft and a shaft spring. The actuator may further include a second core component extending around the first core component, wherein the second core component and the first core component are axially moveable relative to one another, and a third core component extending within the second core component, wherein the third core component and the second core component are axially moveable relative to one another. The actuator may further include a positioning sphere extending through an opening of the first core component, wherein the positioning sphere abuts the second core component when the bi-stable actuator is in a first position, and wherein the positioning sphere abuts a detent of the shaft when the bi-stable actuator is in a second position.