Lockable Rocker Switch Magnetic Actuation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lockable rocker switches for motor vehicle electrical circuits are cumbersome due to the large number of components required for locking and unlocking, making them difficult to handle and operate effectively.
Innovation Solution
A compact lockable rocker switch design featuring a magnetically actuatable locking component that can be easily engaged and released by pivoting the rotatable part and sliding a control component, reducing the need for multiple components and simplifying the locking and unlocking process, utilizing a magnetic control mechanism with a resilient biasing system for automatic return to the rest position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional locking device with multiple components is used, then the locking function is achieved, but the device becomes cumbersome and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking component and control component are integrated into a unified magnetic actuation system. The locking component includes a magnetic element that interacts with the control component's magnet, allowing both locking and unlocking functions to be achieved through a single integrated mechanism rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical locking mechanisms with multiple moving parts are replaced by a magnetic actuation system. The magnetic field generated by the control component's magnet acts on the locking component's magnetic element, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages, springs, and cam mechanisms while maintaining reliable locking function.
2Reliability
If numerous components are used to achieve locking and unlocking functions, then the locking mechanism is robust, but the overall device size increases and becomes less compact
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional components are merged into compact assemblies. The locking component integrates the locking element and magnetic element into a single unit, while the control component combines the actuator and magnet. This merging reduces the overall volume required for the locking mechanism while maintaining its robustness.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking component is designed to nest within or alongside the control component when not in use. The magnetic actuation system allows for compact positioning where the locking element can be stored in a recessed position within the control component's housing, minimizing the external dimensions of the overall device.
3Reliability
If a complex locking device with multiple components is used, then the locking function is secure, but the number of parts increases making the device tedious to lock and unlock
Solution Approach 1:
Complex mechanical systems with multiple interacting components are replaced by a magnetic field-based actuation system. The magnetic interaction between the control component's magnet and the locking component's magnetic element provides secure locking with a single actuation motion, eliminating the need for multiple mechanical parts, linkages, and adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic actuation system provides automatic engagement and disengagement of the locking component. When the control component is actuated, the magnetic field automatically moves the locking element into or out of the locked position without requiring manual manipulation of separate components or adjustments by the user.
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 provides a reliable, easy-to-handle lockable rocker switch that is compact and efficient, allowing for quick and secure locking and unlocking operations, suitable for motor vehicle electrical circuits, with the ability to manage multiple rotation positions for powering various electrical components.
Implementation Method 1
a control component which is attached to said rotatable part and which is movable with respect to said rotatable part at least between: a control position, in which said control component causes a magnetic action urging said locking component towards said release position
Implementation Method 2
a resilient biasing component which is arranged to exert a biasing force on said locking component suitable for moving said locking component between: said at least one locking position, and said at least one release position
Data Source
AI summary
A lockable rocker switch includes a fixed part, a rotatable part rotating between a first and a second rotation position, a magnetically actuatable locking component movable between a locking position so as to prevent rotation of rotatable part and a release position, so that rotatable part may rotate. The lockable rocker switch further includes a control component movable onto the rotatable part between a control position, for causing a magnetic action urging the locking component towards the release position, and a rest position, stopping the magnetic action.