In-Line Five-Position Switch With Redundant Circuit Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional multiple-position switches, such as five-position switches, struggle to provide sufficient circuit redundancy in a compact space, making them less reliable for critical applications like aircraft control systems where precise and redundant switching is essential.
Innovation Solution
A five-position switch design with all positions in-line and featuring double or triple redundancy at each position, utilizing a switch head, button support, piston shafts, rollers, and a plunger to activate multiple circuit switches simultaneously, ensuring reliable operation and easy access for pilots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional multiple-position switches are used, then the switch can provide multiple positions, but the circuit redundancy is insufficient and the space required is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple circuit switches into a single integrated switch assembly. The switch assembly includes a common actuator that simultaneously controls multiple circuit switches, allowing double or triple redundancy at each position without requiring separate switch units. This merging of functions achieves high reliability while maintaining a compact form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch assembly is designed to perform multiple functions within a single device. Each position of the actuator simultaneously activates multiple circuit switches, providing both multi-position functionality and circuit redundancy. This universal design allows the same switch assembly to provide five positions with double or triple redundancy, eliminating the need for separate redundant switch units.
2Reliability
If circuit redundancy is increased, then reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple circuit switches are merged into a single integrated assembly sharing common components including the actuator, housing, and mounting structure. This consolidation provides double or triple redundancy while actually reducing overall device complexity compared to using separate redundant switch units, each with their own actuators and housings.
Data Source
AI summary
Multiple position switches and specifically in-line multiple position switches where a user has definitive points of on and off switching which are used to turn multiple redundant internal circuit switches on and off. This can provide for increased reliability of switch operation. The multi-position switch is typically a five-position switch with all five positions in-line and with double or triple redundancy at each position. The switches can also provide for the feel of a snap action mechanism between positions.