Mechanical Input Output Selector for High Power Autonomous Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrical multiplexers are limited to low power applications and require human intervention for switching high power lines, leading to cable management issues and signal degradation, making them unsuitable for high volume multiplexing applications that require autonomous switching.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical input/output selector system that includes a first terminal for a transmission line, a plurality of second terminals, a first displacement device for selective positioning, and a second displacement device to alternately connect and disconnect the first terminal from the second terminals, with a control system to manage the displacement devices, enabling autonomous switching of high power and signal lines without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If electrical multiplexers are used for switching high power lines, then signal switching capability is improved, but power handling capability deteriorates (limited to low power applications)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional electrical multiplexers with a mechanical switching system that uses a movable carriage with electrical contacts to physically connect or disconnect transmission lines. This mechanical system is actuated by a displacement device (such as a motor or actuator) that moves the carriage along a guide to selectively engage different second terminals, enabling autonomous switching of high power lines without relying on electrical multiplexers that cannot handle high power.
2Power
If relays are used to control current path for high power lines, then power handling capability is improved, but device complexity and human intervention requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated mechanical switching system. The movable carriage combines multiple electrical contacts that can simultaneously connect or disconnect multiple transmission lines, eliminating the need for separate relay control for each line. This consolidation reduces cable management complexity and enables autonomous operation through a single displacement device that controls the carriage position.
3Power
If manual switching is used for high power lines, then power handling capability is improved, but productivity and automation level deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service switching system where the mechanical switch automatically positions itself to connect or disconnect transmission lines based on control signals. The displacement device moves the movable carriage to the appropriate position, and the electrical contacts automatically engage or disengage without requiring manual intervention. This automation enables rapid switching operations and eliminates the need for human operators to physically manipulate high power connections.
Data Source
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AI summary
A mechanical input/output selector is disclosed. The mechanical input/output selector can include a first terminal for a first transmission line. The mechanical input/output selector can also include a plurality of second terminals for a plurality of second transmission lines. The mechanical input/output selector can further include a first displacement device operable to selectively position the first terminal proximate to any one of the plurality of second terminals. Additionally, the mechanical input/output selector can include a second displacement device operable to move the first terminal relative to the plurality of second terminals to alternately connect and disconnect the first terminal and one of the plurality of second terminals. Associated systems and methods are also provided.