Double Throw Switch Actuation Assembly With Slotted Drive Disc

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional double throw switches are bulky, complex, and require many parts, making them inefficient and costly for switching between utility and standby power sources.

Innovation Solution

An actuation assembly for a double throw switch featuring a pair of links with protuberances, a drive disc with predefined slots, and a lever arm, which allows for simplified and efficient toggling between utility and standby power sources using fewer components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional mechanisms are used in double throw switches, then the switching function is achieved, but the device becomes bulky and complex with significantly higher parts count

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching functionVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple switching functions into a single integrated mechanism. The actuator assembly combines the first and second switches with their respective links into one unified structure that operates simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms for each switch and thereby reducing overall complexity while maintaining reliable switching functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The actuator assembly serves multiple functions: it operates both the first switch and the second switch through a single actuation motion, provides mechanical linkage between the actuator and switches, and enables both utility and standby source switching. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed while ensuring reliable operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If conventional mechanisms are used in double throw switches, then the switching function is achieved, but the number of parts required is significantly higher

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching functionVSAvoidparts count
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple switches and their operating mechanisms into a single integrated actuator assembly. Instead of having separate mechanisms for the first switch and second switch, both switches are operated through a unified actuator structure with linked arms, significantly reducing the total number of parts while maintaining the required switching functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If conventional mechanisms are used in double throw switches, then the switching function is achieved, but the device requires more space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching functionVSAvoiddevice footprint
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent consolidates multiple switching mechanisms into a compact integrated actuator assembly. By merging the first switch mechanism and second switch mechanism into one unified structure with shared components and linked operation, the overall device footprint is reduced while maintaining full switching functionality for both utility and standby sources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS12354816B2Actuation assembly for a double throw switch
Publication Date: 2025.07.08 ABB (SCHWEIZ) AG
  • US12354816B2 patent drawing
  • US12354816B2 patent drawing
  • US12354816B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An actuation assembly for a double throw switch is disclosed. The assembly includes a pair of links. A distal end (D) of each of the pair of links is connectable to a first switch and a second switch of the double throw switch. A proximal end (P) of each of the pair of links includes a protuberance. Further, the assembly includes a drive disc securable to a wall of the double throw switch. The drive disc is defined with a plurality of slots of pre-defined profile. Each of the plurality of slots is structured to accommodate and guide the protuberance extending from a corresponding link of the pair of links. A lever arm is connectable to the drive disc and is operable to at least one of a first position, a neutral position, and a second position.