Electrical Switch With Linear Fixed Contacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary stepping switches face design limitations due to the arrangement of fixed contacts around the rotor, making it difficult to increase the number of contacts and efficiently arrange electrical cables in confined spaces.
Innovation Solution
The electrical switch design features fixed contacts arranged in a single row parallel to the axis of rotation, with a rotor that includes a cavity for the moving contact and an operating mechanism with ratchet means for rotational advancement, allowing for flexible switching actions and efficient cable management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed contacts are arranged around the rotor periphery, then the switch can perform basic switching functions, but the number of fixed contacts is limited to 4-5 and cable arrangement becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the fixed contacts from a circumferential arrangement around the rotor to a linear arrangement on one side of the rotor, parallel to the axis of rotation. This dimensional change from circular to linear configuration allows for increased number of contacts (more than 4-5) while simplifying cable routing, as all cables can now be connected from one side rather than being distributed around the periphery.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed contacts are arranged in a circumferential pattern, then the switching action is achieved, but the design is constrained and hard to alter the number of contacts
Solution Approach 1:
By moving the fixed contacts from a circular arrangement to a linear arrangement parallel to the rotor axis, the patent enables easier manufacturing and design modifications. The linear configuration allows contacts to be added or removed along the axis without affecting the overall circular geometry of the rotor, making the design more adaptable and easier to manufacture in various configurations.
3Ease of operation
If cables are connected to the switch in different directions around the periphery, then electrical connections are established, but cable arrangement is cumbersome in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates all cable connections to one side of the switch, parallel to the rotor axis, rather than distributing connections around the periphery. This linear arrangement on one side significantly reduces the space required for cable management and makes installation much easier in confined spaces, as all cables can be routed through a single access area.
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
This design enables easy expansion of contact numbers and improves cable arrangement, allowing for efficient switching actions and compact installation in confined spaces, enhancing the versatility and usability of the electrical switch.
Implementation Method 1
The operating mechanism includes ratchet means in ratchet engagement with a rotor part of the rotor
Implementation Method 2
first resilient means resiliently biasing the ratchet means to return in a non-driving direction opposite to the driving direction
Implementation Method 3
the rotor includes at least one inclined protrusion for abutment by an associated fixed contact against rotational reversal upon release of the operating mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical switch has a casing, fixed contacts and at least one moving contact located in the casing, and a rotor supported in the casing for rotation about an axis of rotation to move the moving contact into and out of contact with at least one of the fixed contacts. There is also an operating mechanism for rotating the rotor. The fixed contacts are arranged on one side of the rotor with respect to the axis of rotation.