Dual-operation handle for independent switch control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing low-voltage switch operation handle devices require the main operation handle to be changed or operated to drive the linkage mechanism, limiting flexibility when the main handle is unsuitable or unchanged, and cannot independently drive the mechanism to open or close switch contacts in certain operational scenarios.

Innovation Solution

A duel-operation handle device with a main operation handle and an ancillary operation handle, both capable of independently driving a coupler and linkage mechanism, where the ancillary handle can operate without affecting the main handle's state, using a concentric design with projecting edges and teeth for independent rotation and mechanism control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single main operation handle is used to drive the linkage mechanism, then the structure is simple, but the operational flexibility is limited when the main handle is unsuitable or unchanged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational flexibilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The operation handle system is segmented into two independent handles: the main operation handle (20) and the ancillary operation handle (20'). Each handle can independently drive the coupler (30) and linkage mechanism (200) through separate driving interfaces (projecting edge 26 for main handle, tooth 28 for ancillary handle), enabling operational flexibility without requiring a complete system redesign

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupler (30) is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both a projecting edge (36) to engage with the main operation handle's projecting edge (26) and a tooth (38) to engage with the ancillary operation handle's tooth (28). This allows a single coupler to receive driving forces from either handle, providing universal operational capability

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

2Ease of operation

If the main operation handle must be operated to change switch contact state, then the control path is direct, but the ability to operate independently of main handle state is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent operation capabilityVSAvoidhandle mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The driving interface is segmented into two independent systems: the main handle uses a projecting edge (26) pressing against the coupler's projecting edge (36), while the ancillary handle uses a tooth (28) engaging with the coupler's tooth (38). This segmentation allows each handle to operate independently without interfering with the other's state or mechanism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupler (30) serves as an intermediary mechanism that receives driving forces from either the main operation handle or the ancillary operation handle and transmits them to the linkage mechanism (200). This intermediary design enables the ancillary handle to operate the mechanism independently while the main handle remains in its current state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP2006873B1Dual-operation handle device
Publication Date: 2013.10.30 SIEMENS AG
  • EP2006873B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2006873B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2006873B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention provides a duel-operation handle device comprising a base with rotating shafts, and a main operation handle and a coupler mounted on one of said rotating shafts wherein said main operation handle and coupler are provided with mated projecting edges so that when said main operation handle is operated to turn around the rotating shaft, said coupler will be driven by said mated projecting edge to turn around the rotating shaft. Said duel-operation handle further comprises an ancillary operation handle which is arranged concentrically with said main operation handle and is provided with at least one tooth. Said coupler is further provided with at least one tooth to engage with the tooth of said ancillary operation handle so that when said ancillary operation handle is operated to turn around the rotating shaft, said coupler will be driven by said engaging teeth to turn around the rotating shaft. Said linkage mechanism connected with the coupler can be driven by only operating the ancillary operation handle, without operating said main operation handle or affecting the current state of said main operation handle.