Multi-Directional Switch Operation Body for Force Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional limit switches are limited to detecting external forces in a single direction due to the use of a seesaw mechanism, requiring redesign and mold remaking when the mounting position changes, leading to a complex design and waste of existing molds.
Innovation Solution
A switch design featuring a base, cover, operation body, return spring, and contact mechanism with extended operation receiving portions and surfaces that allow detection of external forces from multiple directions through rotational motion, eliminating the need for a seesaw mechanism and simplifying the structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a seesaw mechanism is used to detect operations of two filters, then the limit switch can detect external forces in one vertical direction, but the detectable operating direction is restricted and the design becomes complex requiring mold remaking when mounting position changes
Solution Approach 1:
The operation body is divided into multiple functional surfaces: a top surface for vertical detection and side surfaces for lateral detection. This segmentation allows the single operation body to detect forces from multiple directions independently, eliminating the need for a seesaw mechanism and enabling adaptability to different mounting positions without redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation body is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both a top surface and side surfaces that can receive external forces from different directions. This universal design allows the same switch structure to be used in various mounting positions and orientations, detecting forces whether applied vertically or laterally, thus eliminating the need for specialized seesaw mechanisms for each application.
2Measurement precision
If a seesaw mechanism is used in the limit switch, then external forces in one direction can be detected, but the structure becomes complex and requires redesign when mounting position changes
Solution Approach 1:
The seesaw mechanism is completely extracted and removed from the switch structure. Instead of using a separate seesaw component, the operation body itself is designed with multiple detection surfaces that directly receive external forces from different directions, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining force detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The functions previously separated into distinct components (operation receiving portion and operation surfaces) are merged into a single integrated operation body. This operation body contains both the top surface for vertical force detection and side surfaces for lateral force detection, eliminating the need for separate seesaw mechanisms and reducing structural complexity.
3Measurement precision
If a seesaw mechanism is used for detecting filter operations, then vertical direction detection is achieved, but every mounting position change requires redesign and mold remaking
Solution Approach 1:
The operation body is designed to be dynamically adaptable to different mounting positions and orientations. By providing multiple detection surfaces (top and side surfaces) that can receive forces from various directions, the switch maintains detection accuracy regardless of how it is mounted, eliminating the need for redesign when mounting positions change.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch design allows for parameter changes in mounting position and orientation without requiring structural redesign. The operation body's multiple surfaces can detect forces whether the switch is mounted vertically, horizontally, or at various angles, providing manufacturing flexibility and eliminating the need for new molds when adapting to different installation requirements.
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 efficient detection of external forces from various directions, increasing versatility and reducing design complexity and mold waste by allowing the switch to function without a seesaw mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a return spring which is supported between the cover and the operation body and is configured to apply a return force to the operation body
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
Provided is a switch capable of singly detecting external forces loaded from multiple directions. The switch is a switch including: a base (10); a cover (80) mounted on one surface of the base (10); an operation body (40) which is stored in an operation recess (11) formed on one surface of the base (10) and is held between the base (10) and the cover (80) rotatably from the outside; a return spring (70) which is supported between the cover (80) and the operation body (40) and is configured to apply a return force to the operation body (40); and a contact mechanism portion (20) which is disposed between the base (10) and the operation body (40), the switch operating the operation body (40) to drive the contact mechanism portion (20). In particular, at least one operation receiving portion (50) is extended from an outer peripheral surface of the operation body (40), and at least one operation surface (52) is extended from an apex (51) located at a free end of the operation receiving portion (50).