Electric Switch With Magnetic Latch for Automatic Shutdown
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric switches for devices like exhaust hoods are complex and expensive due to their reliance on relays and timers for automatic shutdown, while cost-effective solutions can only be manually operated.
Innovation Solution
A simple electric switch design featuring a contact system with an axially displaceable plunger and an engaging latch, combined with a controllable drive mechanism using a coil and permanent magnet for non-manual unlocking, allowing for automatic shutdown based on a predetermined time period or external signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If relays and timers are used for automatic shutdown, then automatic shutdown function is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electronic relays and timers with a simple mechanical latch mechanism that uses a spring-loaded plunger and cam-shaped groove interaction to automatically maintain the switched state and enable automatic shutdown, thereby achieving automation while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is self-maintaining through the interaction between the spring-loaded plunger and the cam-shaped groove, where the spring automatically returns the plunger to its initial position after actuation, providing automatic shutdown functionality without requiring external control systems
2Extent of automation
If relays and timers are used for automatic shutdown, then automatic shutdown function is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive mechanical components such as a spring-loaded plunger, latch, and cam-shaped groove that can be easily manufactured and replaced, providing automatic shutdown functionality at a lower cost compared to electronic relays and timers
3Ease of manufacture
If manual switching is used for cost-effective devices, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but automation capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism automatically maintains the switched state and enables automatic shutdown through the spring-loaded plunger returning to its initial position, providing automation capability while keeping the device simple and cost-effective
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 provides a cost-effective, energy-efficient automatic shutdown mechanism that is independent of the trigger mechanism, enabling efficient power management in electric devices without the need for complex relays and timers.
Implementation Method 1
the permanent magnet, by virtue of its magnetic properties, is attracted by an iron core of the coil because the iron core of the coil is made of an analogous ferromagnetic material. Consequently, without a drive, the permanent magnet and iron core of the coil form a uniform magnetic circuit.
Implementation Method 2
If the coil is driven, this means that current flows through the coil for a short time. A magnetic field is induced in the coil. This magnetic field is oriented opposite to the magnetic field of the permanent magnet, which leads to a repulsion of the permanent magnet.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric switch is provided. The electric switch comprises a contact system, an actuation element, an engaging latch, and an actuator. The actuation element moves between an initial position and an actuation position to switch and changeover the contact system. The actuation element is located in a direction of the initial position by a force of a return spring. The engaging latch locks the actuation element in the initial position or the actuation position. A non-manual unlocking between the actuation element and the engaging latch is performed by the actuator.