Dual-Paddle Switch Coupling for Alignment and Failure Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Paddle switches in human-machine interfaces, particularly in aircraft or helicopter controls, face issues of mechanical failure and inconsistent sensor measurements due to accidental misalignment of dual paddles, leading to unexpected equipment behavior or fault detection.
Innovation Solution
A paddle switch design with mechanically connected paddles that separate at a predetermined force threshold, allowing independent operation of each paddle and redundant sensor measurement, with electrical connectivity that breaks upon separation to signal failure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two paddles are used to increase robustness against sensor failures, then reliability is improved, but the risk of accidental misalignment and inconsistent measurements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the two paddles into a single integrated lever structure where both paddles are mechanically coupled through a common pivot point. This ensures that when the user presses either paddle, both move together as one unit, guaranteeing consistent position measurements from both sensors and eliminating the problem of accidental misalignment while maintaining the redundancy benefit.
2Reliability
If two independent paddles are used to allow continued operation when one is blocked, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the lever into two functional paddles (first paddle and second paddle) that are mechanically connected but can operate independently. Each paddle has its own actuation path and is measured by its own sensor, allowing the system to maintain functionality even if one paddle becomes blocked, while avoiding the complexity of two completely independent mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The lever structure serves multiple functions: it provides two separate actuation points (first and second paddles) that can be used independently or together, maintains mechanical coupling for consistent operation, and enables redundant sensing. This multi-functionality allows the single lever to replace what would otherwise require two separate mechanisms.
3Measurement precision
If mechanical connection between paddles is made strong to prevent accidental separation, then measurement consistency is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different mechanical properties to different parts of the lever structure. The connection between the first and second paddles at the pivot point is designed to be rigid to ensure consistent relative positioning and measurement accuracy, while the contact surfaces of each paddle are designed to be easily pressable by a user's finger. This local differentiation allows the structure to simultaneously achieve measurement precision and ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
User-actuatable paddle button, said button comprising first and second paddles (16, 18) mechanically attached to each other only by means of a detachable zone (20) to ensure that the first and second paddles can only be moved at the same time, provided that neither of the paddles is blocked relative to the other, said detachable zone being capable of giving way as soon as the difference between the bearing forces exerted on the first and second paddles, respectively, exceeds a predetermined threshold, said predetermined threshold being adjusted to be crossed when the user presses on the one of the paddles while the movement of other paddle is blocked.