Clipper Switch Integrating Reset Functionality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrically operable animal hair clippers require separate switches for operating and resetting the motor, which can lead to inadvertent motor reset and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A single switch is used to operate and reset the electric motor, with distinct directional movements for operating and resetting, and a detent mechanism to prevent inadvertent reset, eliminating the need for a separate reset switch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate switches are provided for operating and resetting the motor, then the motor control functionality is complete, but the device complexity increases and the risk of inadvertent reset increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the operating switch and reset switch into a single integrated switch assembly. The switch has multiple positions (off, first operating, second operating, and reset positions) that can be selected by moving the switch in different directions from the off position. This merging reduces the number of separate components while maintaining all necessary functions, directly resolving the contradiction between device complexity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single switch assembly serves multiple functions: it can operate the motor at different speeds (first and second operating positions) and reset the motor (reset position). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated switches for each function, reducing overall device complexity while ensuring reliable motor control and reset operations.
2Device complexity
If a single switch is used for both operating and resetting the motor, then the device complexity is reduced, but the risk of inadvertent operation may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The switch assembly employs asymmetric design in two key ways: (1) Different directional movements are required to reach operating positions versus the reset position from the off position, and (2) The resilient arms with detent mechanisms provide different engagement characteristics for different positions. This asymmetry makes inadvertent resetting unlikely while maintaining simple integrated switch structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The detent mechanism using resilient arms and ramp formations creates preliminary resistance against unintended switch movement. The resilient arms must be deliberately compressed to overcome the detent engagement and move the switch to the reset position, preventing accidental activation while keeping the switch structure integrated and simple.
3Reliability
If the switch is movable in multiple directions from the off position, then inadvertent reset is prevented, but the ease of operation may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The switch assembly uses resilient arms that can dynamically deflect and engage with ramp formations at different positions. The resilient nature allows the switch to be moved deliberately in different directions to reach various positions, while the detent mechanism provides stable engagement at each position. This dynamic design prevents inadvertent operation while maintaining reasonable ease of intentional operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrically operable clipper (10) has a body portion (12) and a head portion (14), wherein the head portion (14) includes a movable cutter (18) and a fixed comb (20). The clipper (10) includes an internally located electric motor (36) operable to move the movable cutter (18). The clipper (10) further includes an operating switch (16) movable between an off position, an operating positon and a reset position, wherein the reset position operates a motor reset module (46) of the clipper (10).