Latching RF Switch with Magnetic Retention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electro-mechanical RF switches require continuous voltage application to maintain the switch state, leading to unnecessary power consumption and heat generation, as they rely on mechanical mechanisms to hold the switch position after a current pulse is removed.

Innovation Solution

A latching electromagnetic RF switch using intermediate Ferromagnetic materials and permanent magnets to retain the connecting elements in the desired position, allowing the switch to maintain the state without continuous electrical power, utilizing a combination of solenoids and Ferromagnetic elements to manage magnetic forces and maintain contact engagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If continuous voltage is applied to solenoids to maintain switch state, then reliable contact engagement is achieved, but power consumption and heat generation increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontact engagement reliabilityVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a latching mechanism where the solenoid transitions from a dynamic state (requiring continuous power) to a static latched state (requiring no power). The connecting element is attracted to the solenoid core during switching, then latches to intermediate ferromagnetic materials, dynamically changing the system's power requirements based on operational state.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Intermediate ferromagnetic materials are introduced as mediators between the solenoid core and the connecting element. These intermediaries retain magnetic properties after the solenoid is de-energized, maintaining the latched position without requiring continuous electrical power to the solenoid.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If mechanical spring mechanisms are used to maintain switch position, then switching life is reduced, but continuous power application is avoided

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveswitching lifeVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical spring mechanisms with a magnetic latching system. Instead of using mechanical elasticity to maintain switch position, the invention uses magnetic attraction between the connecting element and intermediate ferromagnetic materials to achieve the same positioning function with significantly improved switching life.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Use of energy by moving object

If solenoids are de-energized to reduce power consumption, then switch state cannot be maintained, but power savings are achieved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidswitch state stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The solenoid is energized briefly to perform the preliminary action of attracting the connecting element to the desired position. Once latched to the intermediate ferromagnetic materials, the solenoid can be de-energized while the switch state remains stable, as the latching mechanism maintains the position without continuous power.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables the switch to hold a desired state without continuous voltage, reducing power consumption and heat generation, while maintaining reliable contact engagement and extending the switch's service life by balancing magnetic forces and adjusting solenoid positions for optimal performance.

Implementation Method 1

At least two solenoids are mounted to a wall of the RF cavity opposite to the ports. Each solenoid has a ferromagnetic member.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetism: Electromagnet

Implementation Method 2

An intermediate permanent magnet is provided within each housing. Each intermediate magnet is arranged to attract and retain the permanent magnet, and ultimately to retain the connecting element and the reed in the contact position.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Implementation Method 3

The repelling/attracting forces acting on the permanent magnet of the connecting element are no longer needed, so that the power can be terminated to render the solenoid powerless.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS10249463B1Magnetically operated electro-mechanical latching switch

Publication Date: 2019.04.02 SCI COMPONENTS CORP

AI summary

A latching electromechanical RF switch is formed with an RF switch cavity having at least one inlet port and at least one outlet ports having switch contacts. A leaf contact member moveable between a first contact position connecting the switch contacts and a second position spaced from the switch contacts. A solenoid mounted in the cavity. A housing is formed with a hollow passage. An intermediate permanent magnet provided within the housing. A connecting member assembly is moveable within the hollow passage. The contact leaf member is connected to one end with a permanent magnet provided at another end of the connecting member. The intermediate magnet attracts and retains the permanent magnet and the contact leaf member in the first contact position. Upon reaching the first contact position electric current supply to the solenoid is terminated.