Lever Mechanism for Compact Switch Conversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing conversion devices for converting mechanical positions into electric states are complex due to the need for compact dimensions and multiple requirements, particularly in reduced spaces, which complicates their design and functionality.

Innovation Solution

A conversion device with a mechanism comprising a lever with two tiltable side arms, one operating each switch, utilizing elastic returning elements and controllable supports to actuate switches between open and closed positions, simplifying the design while meeting space constraints.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If double contact switches are used to meet compact overall dimensions, then the device can be installed in reduced space, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoverall dimensionsVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanism is segmented into two independent single-contact switches instead of using one double-contact switch. Each switch has its own mobile contact-holder and elastic returning element, allowing simpler individual components that collectively achieve the desired compactness without the complexity of double-contact switch mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The two single-contact switches are merged into a single integrated mechanism sharing a common crank, fork, and lever system. This merging allows both switches to be actuated simultaneously by a single mechanical input while maintaining simpler individual switch structures compared to double-contact switches

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a complex mechanism is used to meet multiple requirements and external device interactions, then the space organization constraints are satisfied, but the conversion device becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinteraction with external devicesVSAvoidconversion device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanism achieves multi-functionality through a universal lever system with two side arms that can actuate different switches for various external device interactions. The same mechanical structure serves multiple purposes: actuating first switch via first side arm, actuating second switch via second side arm, and providing calibrated closing forces through shared elastic returning elements, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

The solution simplifies the conversion device design while maintaining effective operation, allowing for compact dimensions and efficient electric state conversion, reducing complexity and improving usability in constrained spaces.

Implementation Method 1

at least the first switch comprises an elastic returning element for returning its mobile contact into one of the open and closed positions of said mobile contact. Preferably, the first side arm is an arm for pushing, against the action of the elastic returning element, on the controllable support of the first switch

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic return: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9287060B2Conversion device for converting a mechanical position into an electric state
Publication Date: 2016.03.15 SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC IND SAS
  • US9287060B2 patent drawing
  • US9287060B2 patent drawing
  • US9287060B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In this device, a mechanism for receiving an input mechanical command and for actuating first and second switches comprises a lever having a first side arm tiltable about a swiveling axis of said lever and a second side arm tiltable about the same swiveling axis. The first side arm and the second side arm are respectively arranged on a first side and a second side opposite relative to said swiveling axis. The first side arm is an operating arm for operating the first switch. The second side arm is an operating arm for operating the second switch.