Quick-Release Latch Mechanism for Low-Force Resetting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latching and triggering mechanisms in high-speed earth electrodes and short-circuiting devices are not reliable and require significant effort to reset after a switching operation, limiting their quick-trigging capability and durability.
Innovation Solution
A latch mechanism with a drive rod, connecting element, lever arms, and transmission elements that reduce the required force for unlocking, allowing for easy resetting using a magnetic actuator, and featuring a double design for enhanced stability and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking element is used to prevent movement of the drive rod, then the switching mechanism maintains a stable latched position, but the mechanism requires significant force to release and is difficult to reset
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a locking element for securing the latched position, a connecting element with lever arms for force transmission, and a magnetic actuator for release. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the locking element provides strong holding force while the magnetic actuator provides easy release capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical release mechanisms (such as spring-loaded or cam-based systems) with a magnetic actuator that uses magnetic fields to deflect the locking element. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical release systems and reduces the force required for resetting while maintaining reliable latching.
2Force
If a strong locking force is applied to secure the drive rod, then the switching mechanism remains reliably latched, but the release mechanism requires excessive force and cannot be easily actuated
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element with lever arms acts as an intermediary between the magnetic actuator and the locking element. It transmits and amplifies the small magnetic force into sufficient force to deflect the locking element, while the locking element itself maintains strong holding force through its geometric design and engagement with the drive rod.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed to be deflectable in a direction perpendicular to the normal locking direction. The magnetic actuator applies force in this alternative dimension, causing the locking element to pivot or deflect out of its locking position. This dimensional change allows release with minimal force while maintaining strong latching in the primary dimension.
3Device complexity
If traditional latching mechanisms are used, then the structure is simple, but the switching speed and reliability are insufficient for high-speed applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic elements including a deflectable locking element that can quickly transition between locked and released states, and a magnetic actuator that provides rapid force application. The connecting element with lever arms enables fast motion transmission, allowing the mechanism to achieve high switching speeds while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
4Speed
If chemical propellant charges are used for fast tripping, then the switching speed is improved, but the device cannot be reused without considerable effort
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic actuator system is designed to be reusable and resettable. After actuation, the magnetic field can be deactivated and the locking element returns to its locked position through its elastic deflection or gravitational force, allowing the mechanism to be reused indefinitely without replacement or significant maintenance, unlike chemical propellant systems.
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
The mechanism enables quick, reliable, and durable switching operations by allowing easy resetting and improved stability, ensuring efficient movement between end positions and maintaining a secure latched position.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic actuator (350), wherein the magnetic actuator has a magnetic plunger (300)
Implementation Method 2
The first force is preferably generated by a spring or a spring assembly, in particular by disc springs or a disc spring assembly
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a particularly reliable quick release latch and a release mechanism, as well as a quick earthing device or short circuiter, in particular for low, medium and/or high voltage and/or high-voltage applications.