Modular Electrical Switch With Universal Base Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch devices have a limited number of possible functions and cannot be modified once designed, leading to higher production costs and storage needs due to the requirement for various housing elements.
Innovation Solution
A modular design featuring a main base module with an accessory module that can be selectively connected to expand functions, including a main electronic control circuit, capacitive touch sensors, and remote communication capabilities, allowing for the integration of additional functions without structural modification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If switch devices are designed with multiple housing elements and plates to provide various functions, then the functionality and versatility of the devices are improved, but the production costs and storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal base module housing that can accommodate different numbers and types of switching modules (1, 2, or 3 modules). The housing includes a standardized mounting structure with adjustable partition walls and universal connection terminals, allowing the same housing to serve multiple configuration purposes, thereby reducing the need for multiple specialized housing variants and lowering production costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching device is divided into modular components: a base module housing, removable partition walls, and interchangeable switching modules. This segmentation allows manufacturers to produce standardized base modules in large quantities, while only needing to produce varying numbers of identical switching modules to create different device configurations, reducing overall production complexity and storage requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturers produce various housing elements and plates for different switch configurations, then the adaptability of switch devices is improved, but the storage space requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is designed as a universal container with standardized dimensions, mounting locations, and connection interfaces that can accommodate 1, 2, or 3 switching modules. The same housing structure serves multiple configuration purposes through adjustable internal partitioning, eliminating the need for multiple specialized housing designs and reducing the variety of components that must be manufactured and stored.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing includes removable and reconfigurable partition walls that can be adjusted or removed to change the internal configuration. This dynamic structure allows the same housing to adapt to different module arrangements, providing configuration flexibility without requiring multiple static housing variants, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining adaptability.
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
Enables the expansion of switch device functions without altering the base module, reducing production costs and storage requirements while enabling control of a wider range of equipment and remote communication capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
Capacitive touch-controlled on/off devices are known in the prior art and comprise an external plate on which there are areas sensitive to the contact of human fingers or other conductive bodies that activate the switches
Data Source
AI summary
A switch device includes a main module, which includes at least one main electronic control circuit, connections to the electrical system of a building and/or to equipment or devices to be controlled, one or more touch sensors or contacts connected to the at least one main electronic control circuit, a main box-shaped housing element for the preceding components, and one or more systems that provide a reversible electric or electronic and mechanical connection of the main module to an accessory module.