Magnetic Field Sensor Module for Low Voltage Switch Position Reporting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for reporting the switch position of low-voltage switches lack operational reliability and are not easily retrofittable or space-efficient, often being susceptible to interference and requiring additional width in low-voltage distribution boards.
Innovation Solution
A signaling device with a magnetic field generator and sensor module that is mechanically coupled to the switch, using a plate-shaped sliding body and Hall element or reed contact to form an electrical signal, is designed to be compact, interference-resistant, and can be easily retrofitted, with optional optical indication and digital signal processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical auxiliary switch with contact points is used, then the device can report switch position, but the device is susceptible to electrical and magnetic interference reducing operational reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical contact-based auxiliary switch with a magnetic field-based sensing system. A magnetic field generator (permanent magnet or electromagnet) is coupled to the movable contact piece, and a magnetic field sensor (Hall element or reed contact) detects the magnetic field changes to determine switch position. This substitution eliminates direct electrical contacts that are susceptible to interference and arcing, thereby improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the movable contact piece and the sensor. Instead of direct electrical contact, the magnetic field serves as the coupling medium that transmits position information from the switch to the sensor without being affected by electrical interference or arcing, thus resolving the susceptibility to harmful factors.
2Ease of operation
If a traditional auxiliary switch device is installed, then switch position can be reported, but additional width is required in the low-voltage distribution board
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the signaling device with the existing switch housing structure. The magnetic field generator is integrated into the switch's movable contact piece, and the sensor is mounted on the switch housing or adjacent structure. This combination eliminates the need for separate auxiliary switch devices that would require additional width in the distribution board, enabling easy retrofitting of existing installations.
Solution Approach 2:
The signaling components (magnetic field generator and sensor) are nested within or on the existing switch housing structure. The magnetic field generator is incorporated into the movable contact piece assembly, and the sensor is positioned on the housing or adjacent structure, effectively nesting the reporting function within the existing spatial envelope of the switch without requiring additional width.
3Productivity
If mechanical contact pieces are used for switching, then the switch can open and close circuits, but switching arcs are generated causing interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical contact-based switching with a magnetic field-based detection system. The magnetic field generator follows the movement of the movable contact piece during switching operations, and the magnetic field sensor detects the position changes without being exposed to switching arcs. This substitution maintains the switching capability while eliminating the harmful effects of arcs on the sensing components.
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 high operational reliability, allows for easy retrofitting without increasing the device's width, and offers both electrical and optical reporting of switch positions, even in the event of signal circuit failure, while minimizing space usage and interference susceptibility.
Implementation Method 1
The release contains at least one magnetic field generator, which is guided in a variable position by a movable contact piece of the low-voltage switch, for generating or amplifying a magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
The auxiliary switch is designed as a sensor module and has at least one magnetic field sensor interacting with the magnetic field sensor for opening and closing the signal circuit after a change in position of the magnetic field sensor caused by a switching operation of the low-voltage switch
Implementation Method 3
at least one magnetic field sensor interacting with the magnetic field sensor
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The device (V) has an auxiliary switch designed as sensor module (40), and a magnetic field sensor (42) i.e. Hall element, connected with a magnetic field transmitter (36). The sensor module is fastened to an operation side (11) of a low tension switch (S), where the operation side is turned away from a fitting side such that a trigger (30) comprises a plate-like sliding body (32) i.e. permanent magnet. The transmitter is arranged on the sliding body that is movably supported along a guiding path (33) formed in a region at the operation side of inner surfaces of housing halves. The plate-like sliding body is made of ferro-magnetic plastic material.