Modular Electromechanical Switch Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high production costs and complexity of electromechanical switching devices due to their diverse constructions and the need for extensive production outlay for various configurations.
Innovation Solution
A modular design for electromechanical switching devices, where the actuation unit, clutch unit, and switching unit are connected via a clutch unit, allowing for standardized connections and easy assembly from a kit of components, enabling flexible production of various devices with pre-tested assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate constructions are used for each electromechanical switching element configuration, then specific functional requirements can be met, but production costs and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The electromechanical switching device is divided into separate functional modules: actuation unit, clutch unit, and switching unit. Each module can be independently designed, manufactured, and tested, then assembled into different configurations to meet various functional requirements without redesigning the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized interfaces and coupling mechanisms allow the same basic modules to serve multiple functions across different device configurations. The clutch unit, for example, can connect different actuation units to different switching units, enabling one clutch unit design to support multiple application scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate constructions are used for each electromechanical switching element configuration, then specific functional requirements can be met, but production outlay and manufacturing effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the device into standardized modules, each module can be manufactured using optimized processes and then assembled through standardized interfaces. This reduces the need for complex custom manufacturing for each configuration and enables modular assembly lines.
Solution Approach 2:
The modules are designed as pre-tested assemblies that can be manufactured and tested separately before final assembly. This preliminary preparation of standardized components reduces on-site manufacturing complexity and enables faster production of different configurations.
3Ease of manufacture
If standardized modular components are used, then production is simplified and flexibility increases, but the ability to meet highly specific custom requirements may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized modules are designed with universal interfaces and coupling mechanisms that can accommodate various combinations. The clutch unit serves as a universal connector that can link different actuation units with different switching units, enabling custom configurations while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows for dynamic reconfiguration of the device by changing which modules are connected together. The standardized interfaces enable easy assembly and disassembly, allowing the system to adapt to different functional requirements without requiring custom manufacturing for each configuration.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an electromechanical switching device (10) for providing an electrical connection between at least two terminals (62) depending on a switching state due to manual actuation, wherein the electromechanical switching device (10) is designed for arrangement in a switchboard of an electrical control device and comprises a rotatably mounted and manually actuating unit (12, 44, 46) as well as a switching unit (14) connectable to the actuating unit (12, 44, 46), wherein the switching unit (14) provides the at least two electrical terminals (62) of the electromechanical switching device (10) and connects them electrically depending on the electrical switching state, for which purpose the switching unit (14) comprises at least one switching element (18) slidably mounted in a longitudinal direction (16) of the electromechanical switching device (10).wherein the electromechanical switching device (10) comprises a coupling unit (20) which mechanically connects the actuating unit (12, 44, 46) and the switching unit (14), and which is configured to transmit the manual actuation of the actuating unit (12, 44, 46) to the switching element (18) of the switching unit (14), wherein the electromechanical switching device (10) is configured in a modular manner by at least the actuating unit (12, 44, 46), the coupling unit (20) and the switching unit (14).