Blister Package Switch for Flashlight Testing Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical devices, such as flashlights, face issues with switch wear and battery drain due to frequent testing, as consumers often inadvertently leave them on, leading to battery depletion.
Innovation Solution
A package-and-device combination featuring a package switch with an activation and deactivation condition, allowing consumers to test the device without using the device's switch, ensuring the circuit is open when not in use, and using a resilient element to maintain a momentary electrical connection for testing purposes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the device is displayed unpackaged or with accessible switch, then consumers can test the device easily, but the switch becomes worn or damaged due to frequent testing
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the testing function from the device's main switch by introducing a package switch that is part of the packaging structure. The package switch includes a first contact on the package and a second contact on the device, creating a separate testing circuit that does not involve the device's primary switch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The package acts as an intermediary element between the consumer and the device switch. By incorporating the switch mechanism into the package structure itself, the package mediates the testing action, allowing consumers to test the device without directly operating the device's switch.
2Ease of operation
If the device is left on for testing, then consumers can verify functionality, but batteries run flat due to inadvertent failure to switch off
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a separate testing circuit segmented from the device's main operating circuit. The package switch controls a distinct circuit path that includes a first contact on the package, a second contact on the device, and a separate switch mechanism, isolating the testing function from the device's primary power consumption pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The package serves as an intermediary that controls power delivery during testing. The package switch mechanism mediates between the power source and the device, allowing controlled activation for testing while preventing unintended continuous operation that would drain batteries.
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 solution prevents switch wear and battery drain by allowing consumers to test the device without activating the internal switch, maintaining the switch in a good condition and conserving battery life, while enabling effective display and testing of the device for sale.
Implementation Method 1
using a resilient element to maintain a momentary electrical connection for testing purposes
Data Source
AI summary
A blister package (12) of transparent plastics material having an actuation portion (18), an electrical device such as a flashlight (14) with a slider switch (32) disposed at least partially within the package, the device including a battery power source (22) and an activatable component such as a LED or light; and a package switch (46) with actuation element (66) having an activation condition and a deactivation condition and being changeable from its deactivation condition to its activation condition. The package and device combination being configured for the power source to form part of a closed electrical circuit with, and to activate, the activatable component when the package switch is in its activation condition, and for the circuit to be open once the package switch has changed to its deactivation condition. The consumer can test the operation of the packaged flashlight by operating the switch (46) to illuminate either the LED (24) or the fluorescent tube (26).