Rocker Switch with Drivable Actuator for Automatic Energy Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric switches require manual intervention to switch off appliances, and there is a need for automatic switching off to conserve energy and enhance user convenience.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a drivable actuator connected to the actuating element, which can move the switch from the on to the off position, along with programmable electronics for timed automatic switching off, and using the mains frequency as an indicator for a test mode to expedite functionality testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a toggle switch is used for manual switching, then the switch can be operated simply and reliably, but it cannot be switched automatically without manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a manual toggle switch with an automatic actuating mechanism (electromagnet or motor) into a single integrated switch device. The actuator is operatively connected to the actuating element, allowing the switch to respond to both manual user input and automatic control signals from external systems, thereby achieving both manual and automatic switching capabilities without requiring separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The switch is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be operated manually by the user through the actuating element, and it can also be actuated automatically by an actuator in response to control signals. This multi-functionality allows the same switch device to serve both as a simple manual toggle and as an automated controlled switch, eliminating the need for separate manual and automatic switching devices
2Loss of energy
If programmable electronics with timer are added for automatic switching off, then energy saving through automatic off is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch device incorporates a programmable timer that is set in advance to automatically switch off the connected appliance after a predetermined time period. The timer is configured beforehand to trigger the actuator at the appropriate moment, enabling automatic switching off without requiring continuous user intervention or complex real-time decision-making circuits
Solution Approach 2:
The switch device includes integrated programmable electronics that autonomously control the switching operation based on pre-programmed parameters. Once the timer is set, the system automatically manages the switching off sequence without requiring external control or complex external circuitry, making the device self-sufficient for energy-saving operations
3Productivity
If test mode using mains frequency indicator is implemented, then testing functionality is simplified and expedited, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The test mode utilizes the mains frequency as an indicator signal to trigger a distinct operational state. When the switch device detects a specific non-standard mains frequency, it interprets this as a test mode activation signal and responds with a predetermined test sequence, providing a clear and unambiguous indication that testing is underway without requiring additional physical indicators or interfaces
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 automatic energy-saving switching off of appliances, ensures functional safety, and simplifies testing and programming processes without additional interfaces or costs, while preventing damage from stuck switches.
Implementation Method 1
the actuator is an electromagnet having a coil and an armature
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an electric switch, in particular a rocker switch, comprising a contact system and comprising a movable actuating element for switching over the contact system between two switch positions, in particular an on position and an off position. The switch has a drivable actuator, which is operatively connected to the actuating element in such a way that the actuating element in at least one of the two switch positions is moved, on driving of the actuator, into the other switch position by the actuator for switching the contact system. In particular, the actuating element is moved by the actuator from the on position to the off position of the contact system.