Emergency Stop Device Mounting Verification Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing emergency stop devices lack a reliable method to ensure proper mechanical connection between the control assembly and the switching assembly, which is crucial for safe operation but difficult to verify, as the switching assembly is typically invisible and disconnection prevents correct functioning.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a detection switch of the normally open type connected in series with the actuation switch, featuring movable detection contacts integral with the actuation support, and utilizing a coaxial actuation and detection push-button mechanism with springs to ensure the detection switch opens when the assemblies are disconnected, allowing for verification of proper attachment without disrupting normal operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the switching assembly is mounted at the rear of the control assembly to be invisible, then the device structure is compact and mounting is simplified, but the user cannot verify whether the control assembly is properly mounted on the switching assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a verification circuit with verification contacts (first verification contact on the movable actuation support, second verification contact on the fixed bridge) that provide feedback about the mounting status. When the control assembly is properly mounted, the verification contacts are engaged and the verification circuit is closed, allowing the user to verify correct installation through the circuit's conductive state.
2Loss of information
If verification contacts are added to verify proper mounting, then the user can verify mounting status, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the verification function with the existing actuation mechanism. The first verification contact is integrated on the movable actuation support that already exists for the actuation switch, and the second verification contact is integrated on the fixed bridge structure. This combines the verification function with existing components rather than adding separate verification mechanisms, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity.
3Reliability
If the detection switch uses separate movable detection support, then the detection function is independent, but the device complexity and space requirement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the detection switch's movable detection support with the existing movable actuation support of the actuation switch. The first verification contact is made on this shared movable support, which already moves in response to actuation member movement. This integration maintains detection functionality while eliminating the need for a separate movable detection support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable actuation support serves multiple functions: it carries the second actuation contact for the actuation switch, carries the first verification contact for the detection switch, and moves in response to the actuation member. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components and simplifies the device structure while maintaining both actuation and detection functions.
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 solution allows for simple and reliable verification of the control assembly's proper mounting on the switching assembly, ensuring the emergency stop device operates correctly while maintaining normal functionality, enhancing safety by ensuring the detection switch opens when the assemblies are disconnected.
Implementation Method 1
a main spring (4) positioned between the movable actuation support (3) and the casing (20)
Implementation Method 2
a contact pressure spring (7) positioned between the mobile detection support (5) and the detection pusher (9)
Implementation Method 3
an opening spring (6) arranged between the mobile actuation support (3) and the detection pusher (9)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~3B
Figure 4A~5B
AI summary
The invention relates to a switching device of the emergency stop type. This device comprises in particular a control assembly (1) and a switching assembly (2). The switching assembly (2) comprises an actuation switch of the normally-closed type and a detection switch of the normally-open type that are placed in series in an electric circuit. The switching assembly (2) includes in particular a mechanical device for monitoring that it is properly engaged on the control assembly (1) by opening the detection switch when the switching assembly (2) is mechanically disconnected from the control assembly (1).