Magnetically Actuated Switch Using Repulsion Forces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical switches for pumps are complex, prone to wear due to unbiased forces on actuating members, and require additional mechanisms like springs to maintain contact positions, leading to reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
A magnetically actuated switch design utilizing repulsion forces between magnets to open and close contacts, eliminating the need for springs and reducing wear by using a three-magnet configuration that stabilizes the actuating member and switch arm, ensuring reliable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If springs and other mechanisms are used to toggle and hold switch contacts, then the switch can maintain contact positions, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes springs and other mechanical biasing mechanisms from the switch design. The actuating member directly actuates the switch contacts through magnetic field interaction without requiring additional components to maintain contact positions, thereby simplifying the device structure while maintaining operational reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical spring-based biasing systems with a magnetic field-based actuation system. Magnets on the actuating member interact with magnets in the switch arm to open and close contacts, eliminating the need for mechanical springs and reducing device complexity
2Volume of moving object
If magnets interact with other magnets or metal plates to actuate switches, then the switching mechanism can be compact, but unbiased forces cause wear on sliding members
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses opposing magnetic forces to counterbalance each other, creating a neutralized magnetic field environment. The first and second magnets on the actuating member create opposing forces that cancel out unbiased forces on the switch arm, preventing wear on sliding members while maintaining compact dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the magnetic field parameters by positioning multiple magnets with specific polarities to create a balanced magnetic environment. This configuration changes the magnetic interaction parameters to eliminate net unbiased forces while maintaining the compact switching mechanism
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 magnetically actuated switch provides a simpler, more reliable switching mechanism with reduced friction and wear, effectively maintaining contact positions without additional biasing forces, enhancing the reliability and longevity of pump control systems.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet on an actuating member in repulsion between at least one magnet of a switch arm
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 3A
AI summary
A magnetically activated switch comprises an arm member, an actuating member, and a switch. The arm member has a first magnet and the actuating member has a second magnet. The actuating member is configured and arranged to move relative to the arm member thereby moving the second magnet relative to the first magnet. The second magnet has a repulsion force to the first magnet. The switch has a contact. Movement of the second magnet in a first direction past the first magnet positions the contact in an open position and movement of the second magnet in a second direction past the first magnet positions the contact in a closed position.