Illumination Device for Switch State Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electro-mechanical operating devices, such as disconnect/grounding switches in power distribution centers, lack effective visual indication of operational states, particularly in hazardous environments like underground mining, where safety and clear observation of switch states are critical.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an illumination device that emits different colors (e.g., RED and GREEN) to visually distinguish operational states of electro-mechanical devices, such as disconnect mechanisms, through a viewing window, controlled by electrical circuitry and sensors to indicate switch-open and switch-closed states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a viewing window is provided in the front panel for observing operation of the disconnect/grounding switch, then visual observation capability is improved, but the operational state indication remains insufficient for clear distinction of switch states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by using an illumination device that emits different colors (e.g., red and green) to indicate different operational states of the electro-mechanical device. The viewing window is configured to display these color changes, providing clear visual distinction between switch-open and switch-closed states without requiring complex additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination device acts as an intermediary between the electro-mechanical operating device and the observer. It converts the mechanical state information into visual color signals that can be clearly observed through the viewing window, bridging the gap between the internal device state and external observation.
2Loss of information
If illumination device emits different colors to distinguish operational states, then visual distinction of switch states is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination device operates periodically rather than continuously, being activated only when needed to indicate operational states. The control circuitry manages the illumination timing to provide clear visual indication during critical operations while minimizing energy consumption during idle periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination device changes its operational parameters (color, intensity, timing) based on the operational state of the electro-mechanical device. This allows the system to provide maximum visual information when needed while reducing energy consumption during normal operation by adjusting or turning off the illumination.
3Reliability
If viewing window is added to observe electro-mechanical device operation, then safety observation is improved, but the panel structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The viewing window is merged with the front panel structure, integrating the observation function into the existing panel design. The illumination device is also integrated within the panel structure, combining multiple functions (structural support, viewing, and illumination) into a unified design that minimizes overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The front panel with viewing window serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the electro-mechanical device, enables visual observation of operational states, and houses the illumination device for enhanced visibility. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system structure.
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
Enhances operator safety by providing clear visual cues for the operational status of electro-mechanical devices, facilitating safer operations and inspections across various technologies and applications.
Implementation Method 1
An illumination device within the interior emits light of at least two different colors corresponding to the at least two visually-distinguishable operational states of the electro-mechanical operating device
Data Source
AI summary
Equipment including an assembly structure defining an interior, and including a panel and a viewing window in the panel. An electro-mechanical operating device is located within the interior. The electro-mechanical operating device has at least two visually-distinguishable operational states, and is positioned such that the operational state of the electro-mechanical operating device can be visually observed through the viewing window. An illumination device within the interior emits light of at least two different colors corresponding to the at least two visually-distinguishable operational states of the electro-mechanical operating device. Electrical circuitry includes a switch for sensing the operational state of the electro-mechanical operating device and connected for controlling the illumination device.