Fuse Switch Cover Locking Mechanism Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing device covers for low-voltage, high-performance fuse switching devices are complex in construction and assembly, requiring a large number of components and increased assembly effort due to the separate actuating and locking devices.
Innovation Solution
A device cover design where the actuating and locking devices are integrated as a single component, simplifying assembly and reducing the number of parts, with a plastic injection-molded structure that includes the cover section, mounting sections, and actuating device, allowing for a compact and ergonomic design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate actuating device and locking device components are used, then the device cover provides reliable locking function, but the assembly complexity and number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating device and locking device are merged into a single integrated component made of elastomeric material. The actuating device includes an actuating element with a pressing surface, a connecting element with first and second legs, and a locking element with blocking pieces. This integration eliminates the need for separate components and reduces assembly complexity while maintaining reliable locking functionality through the elastomeric material's inherent elastic deformation capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used for actuating and locking devices, then the locking mechanism can be designed with specific functions, but the assembly effort and stock requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
All functional elements (actuating element, connecting element, locking element) are combined into one elastomeric component that can be manufactured as a single piece. This eliminates assembly efforts while preserving the sophisticated locking mechanism functionality through the integrated design of blocking pieces that engage with gripping tabs.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric material provides self-service through its inherent elastic properties. The blocking pieces automatically engage and disengage through elastic deformation when the actuating element is pressed, eliminating the need for separate springs, pivots, or other mechanical assistance that would require additional components and assembly.
3Reliability
If traditional locking devices with springs and slides are used, then the locking and unlocking functions are achieved, but the number of individual parts and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric actuating device uses the material's inherent elastic properties to provide both the locking force and the unlocking mechanism. When the actuating element is pressed, the elastomeric material deforms elastically to move blocking pieces out of the path of gripping tabs, and automatically returns to its original shape to re-engage the locking position, eliminating the need for separate springs and slides.
Solution Approach 2:
The functions previously requiring separate components (spring for force, slide for movement, blocking pieces for locking) are merged into a single elastomeric component where the material's elastic deformation provides all necessary mechanical 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 design reduces the complexity and number of components, ensuring secure hold and easy operation of the fuse links, minimizing assembly effort and maintaining long-term functionality with reduced actuating forces required for unlocking.
Implementation Method 1
the actuating device is acted upon by an actuating force and deforms elastically, in particular in the area of the two projections, with the result that the two projections move away from one another
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a device cover (5) of a low-voltage high-performance fuse-switching device (1) comprising a cover section (7), two mounting sections (19, 20) connected to the cover section (7) for the suspended mounting of two handle tabs of a low-voltage high-performance fuse link, wherein the handle tabs are guided by means of the mounting sections (19, 20) when the fuse link is inserted into and removed from the device cover (5), and a locking device (26) connected to the cover section (7) for releasably locking one of the handle tabs of the inserted fuse link in the device cover (5), wherein the locking device (26) projects into the path of this handle tab in a first position when the fuse link is inserted and removed, and is moved out of this path of the handle tab in a second position.as well as with an actuating device (34) for actuating the locking device (26). In such a device cover, according to the invention, the actuating device (34) and the locking device (26) form a single component.