Rotary Switch With Pivoting Actuator Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrical switches with different internal mechanisms lack versatility and innovation, limiting manufacturers' design options and user experience.
Innovation Solution
A rotary switch design employing a pivoting actuator and conductor to connect and disconnect multiple terminals, utilizing a cam, plunger, biasing member, and roller to translate rotational movement into pivotal action, with detents providing tactile feedback and maintaining electrical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional rotary or rocker switch mechanisms are used, then the switch can connect and disconnect terminals, but the design lacks versatility and innovation for manufacturers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a pivoting actuator mechanism that can be adapted to different switch configurations (rotary, rocker, push-button) while maintaining the same core terminal connection functionality. This universal mechanism allows manufacturers to create multiple switch types from a single design platform, enhancing design versatility without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is designed to pivot about a pivot point rather than rotate about a fixed axis, allowing dynamic movement between different positions to connect various terminals. This dynamic pivoting action enables flexible terminal switching while keeping the mechanical structure relatively simple and maintainable
2Productivity
If a pivoting actuator mechanism is implemented, then terminal connection efficiency improves, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The switch is divided into distinct functional components: the pivoting actuator, the conductor, the terminals, and the housing. Each component has a specific function, and the actuator's pivotal movement is segmented into discrete positions corresponding to different terminal connections. This segmentation improves connection efficiency by providing clear, defined switching positions while managing complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The conductor acts as an intermediary element that transfers the pivoting motion from the actuator to the terminals. Rather than the actuator directly connecting terminals, it moves the conductor which then establishes electrical contact. This intermediary approach simplifies the actuator design while maintaining efficient terminal connection capability
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 solution offers a versatile and user-friendly switch design that efficiently connects and disconnects terminals, providing smooth operation and crisp tactile feedback, while allowing for customization and cost savings through common components across different switch types.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member in operable communication with the actuator and the plunger and biases the plunger away from the actuator
Implementation Method 2
a cam located between the rotary knob the said actuator and is eccentric to a rotational axis of the rotary knob, the cam translating a rotational movement of the rotary knob into a pivotable movement of the actuator
Implementation Method 3
a roller attached to the plunger, the roller rolling along the conductor to connect or disconnect the at least two terminals when the actuator is pivoted
Data Source
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AI summary
A rotary switch having a body, a rotary knob attached to the body, and at least two terminals attached to the body. An actuator is pivotably mounted within the body and operably connected to the rotary knob, the actuator pivoting upon a rotation of the rotary knob. A conductor is pivotably mounted in the body and is in communication with the actuator. The conductor is adapted to connect or disconnect the at least two terminals when the actuator is pivotably moved.