Contact Spring Snap-Fit Mounting for Compact Cradle Relays

Solution Overview

Problem

The complex and space-intensive mounting process of cradle relays in electrical switches, which requires pivoting and sufficient space, hinders the development of compact switch designs due to the need for hook-shaped attaching mechanisms to penetrate into slot-shaped apertures.

Innovation Solution

A contact spring with a hook featuring a first tongue bent back towards the switching leg, allowing for a snap-fit mechanism that enables straightforward mounting without the need for pivoting, using an elastically deformable snap-fit hook and recesses to secure the cradle without tilting or damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If hook-shaped attaching mechanisms are used to connect contact springs to the cradle, then secure attachment is achieved, but the mounting process becomes complex and requires sufficient space for pivoting movement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidmounting process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the traditional mounting approach by changing the contact spring's attaching mechanism from a hook shape that requires penetration and pivoting to a tab shape that enables snap-fit mounting. The tab with aperture allows the cradle to be mounted by snapping the tab through the aperture and securing it with a retaining element, eliminating the need for complex pivoting movements while maintaining secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Strength

If hook-shaped attaching mechanisms are used to connect contact springs to the cradle, then secure attachment is achieved, but sufficient space is required in the housing for pivoting movement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidhousing space

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the traditional mounting approach by changing the contact spring's attaching mechanism from a hook shape that requires penetration and pivoting to a tab shape that enables snap-fit mounting. The tab with aperture allows the cradle to be mounted by snapping the tab through the aperture and securing it with a retaining element, eliminating the need for complex pivoting movements while maintaining secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Reliability

If traditional cradle mounting is used, then reliable connection is achieved, but the mounting process is time-consuming and reduces productivity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidmounting speed

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the contact spring with a tab-shaped attaching mechanism featuring an aperture and retaining element, and pre-configuring the cradle with a corresponding mounting structure. This allows the components to be quickly assembled through a snap-fit operation without requiring complex threading or pivoting movements during the mounting process, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining reliable connection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Facilitates simple and compact mounting of contact springs within electrical switches, eliminating the need for extensive space and reducing the risk of damage during assembly, while maintaining secure attachment and preventing material abrasion.

Implementation Method 1

using an elastically deformable snap-fit hook and recesses to secure the cradle without tilting or damage

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10504675B2Contact spring and cradle for an electrical switching element and same

Publication Date: 2019.12.10 TE CONNECTIVITY AUSTRIA GMBH

AI summary

A contact spring for a cradle relay of an electrical switch comprises a switching leg and a hook extending from the switching leg. The switching leg has a contact. The hook has a first tongue bent back toward the switching leg.