Modular Indicator With Internal Conductors And Switch Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular indicator assemblies face design and deployment challenges due to fixed angular positions of modules and constraints in electrical connections, which limit flexibility and increase shadowing from conductive wires in visual indicators.
Innovation Solution
The indicator module design includes a bayonet mount for removable attachment, flexible electrodes for secure contact, and a switch module like DIP switches to configure logical connections, along with conductive wires positioned internally to reduce shadows and enhance flexibility in module sequencing and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If modules are connected with fixed angular positions using bayonet-type mounts, then the assembly structure is stable and reliable, but the design flexibility and deployment versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a switch module that allows dynamic reconfiguration of electrical connections between modules. This enables the indicator assembly to adapt its functionality after assembly, resolving the contradiction by maintaining fixed mechanical connections for reliability while adding dynamic electrical reconfigurability for versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch module changes the electrical connection parameters between modules, allowing the same physical assembly to represent different logical configurations. This enables deployment flexibility without requiring physical disassembly or reconfiguration of the mechanical structure.
2Reliability
If conductive wires are positioned near or inside the cylindrical housing wall for module connectivity, then electrical connections are reliable, but shadowing is increased and visual clarity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions conductive wires in the interior region of the module rather than near the periphery, utilizing the internal dimensional space. This spatial reconfiguration eliminates shadowing on the exterior surface while maintaining reliable electrical connections through the module structure.
3Ease of manufacture
If the order of modules in the series is fixed to determine electrode correspondence, then the assembly is simple to manufacture, but the deployment flexibility and reconfigurability are constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The switch module provides dynamic reconfiguration capability that allows the same fixed physical assembly to be deployed in multiple logical configurations. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining simple fixed manufacturing while adding operational flexibility through electrical reconfigurability.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch module enables a single physical assembly to serve multiple functional purposes by reconfiguring electrical connections. This allows the same manufactured assembly to adapt to different deployment scenarios without requiring multiple specialized designs.
4Reliability
If multiple electrodes and conductors are used for module connectivity, then electrical signal transmission is reliable, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch module consolidates multiple electrical connection functions into a single integrated component. By combining multiple switch elements and connection points into one module, the patent reduces the overall number of discrete electrodes and conductors needed while maintaining reliable signal transmission through the consolidated connection architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
An indicator module includes first electrodes disposed on a first support surface, each of the first electrodes having a flexible portion having a sloped section forming an oblique angle with the first support surface, a second electrodes disposed on a second support surface spaced apart from the first support surface along a longitudinal direction, a set of conductors elongated substantially in the longitudinal direction, each of the first electrodes being electrically connected to the a respective one of the second electrodes via a respective one of the conductors, and an indicator circuit, such as a set of LEDs, electrically connected to one or more of the conductors and adapted to generate a human perceptible signal when the indicator circuit receives electrical power from the one or more of the conductors.