Compact Electric Switch With Perpendicular Drive Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric switches are bulky, which poses a challenge in compact design and efficient circuit switching.
Innovation Solution
A compact electric switch design featuring a drive mechanism located perpendicular to the contact movement, allowing for simultaneous switching of two circuits with a force-guided coupling mechanism and insulation for reduced size and increased efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If the drive mechanism is located beside the set of contacts in a direction perpendicular to the opening direction, then the switch achieves a compact configuration with reduced thickness, but the structural arrangement becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The drive mechanism is positioned beside the set of contacts in a direction perpendicular to the opening direction, utilizing the width dimension rather than the thickness dimension. This dimensional reconfiguration allows the switch to achieve reduced thickness (6 mm or less) while accommodating the drive mechanism through lateral placement, effectively resolving the contradiction between compact thickness and structural complexity.
2Productivity
If the drive mechanism is positioned to enable simultaneous switching of two circuits, then the productivity increases, but the device complexity increases due to the force-guided coupling mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The force-guided coupling mechanism merges the actuation of two separate circuits into a single coordinated operation. By combining the drive mechanisms and contact sets through a shared coupling structure, the patent enables simultaneous switching of two circuits, thereby improving productivity while accepting the necessary increase in device complexity as a trade-off for enhanced functional capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive mechanism is designed with multi-functionality to simultaneously control two separate contact sets and switch two different circuits. This universal design allows a single actuation input to perform multiple switching functions, increasing productivity by enabling parallel circuit control without requiring separate actuation systems for each circuit.
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 enables a very compact switch configuration with reduced thickness, allowing for efficient switching of two circuits while maintaining electrical insulation and mechanical protection, achieving a thickness of 6 mm or less.
Implementation Method 1
The drive mechanism 50 comprises a coil 51, a bobbin 52, a yoke 53 and an armature 54
Data Source
AI summary
A switch includes a set of contacts and a drive mechanism opening and closing the set of contacts. The drive mechanism is located beside the set of contacts in a direction perpendicular to an opening direction in which the contacts are movable to at least one of open and close.