Position Switch Head With Multiple Support Planes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mechanical position switches are weakened by a two-part architecture that fails to withstand high stresses applied to the head, leading to potential breakage under excessive forces.

Innovation Solution

A position switch design where the fixing means are arranged only on the head, allowing it to assume multiple angular positions and attach to a support via distinct support planes, using transverse passages and screws or other fastening elements to distribute stress, thereby reinforcing the structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the position switch uses a two-part architecture with a removable head, then modularity and adjustability are improved, but the strength and reliability deteriorate under high stresses

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodularity and adjustabilityVSAvoidstrength under stress

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The position switch is divided into two separate parts: a body and a removable head. The head can be detached and reattached to different supports, providing modularity and adaptability while allowing the body to remain stationary and structurally sound

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The head is designed with multiple support planes (at least two distinct planes) that allow it to be oriented at different angular positions around the main axis of the body, enabling multi-dimensional positioning and adaptation to various support configurations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the head is made separate from the body for adjustability, then versatility is improved, but the reliability under high forces worsens

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustable functionVSAvoidresistance to breakage

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The head is pre-equipped with multiple support planes and fastening means (passages for screws or other fasteners) that allow it to be securely attached to different supports before operation, ensuring proper stress distribution and reliable connection from the outset

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The head serves multiple functions: it provides the actuating means for the switching device, offers multiple support planes for attachment to various supports, and includes fastening features that enable secure connection. This multi-functionality is achieved within a single component that maintains reliability across different application scenarios

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2851917B1Limit switch

Publication Date: 2018.01.31 SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC IND SAS

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AI summary

The invention relates to a position switch comprising: - a body (1) made along a principal axis (X) and containing a switching device, - a head (2) removable and orientable relative to the body (1) so as to take several distinct angular positions around the principal axis (X), said head (2) comprising actuation means arranged to act on the switching device, - means for fixing the position switch on a support (S), - the fixing means being arranged on the head (2) of the position switch, - the head (2) having at least two distinct support planes, said fixing means being arranged to fix the head in support against the support according to one or the other of its two support planes.