Rotary Switching Mechanism for Push Button Mode Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing operating attachments for push buttons and switches with rotatable handling parts require different encoding elements for latching and momentary-contact modes, necessitating part exchange and manual operation, which is inconvenient and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An operating attachment with a housing and handling part that allows relative rotation, featuring a latching mechanism and encoding elements that can be moved between positions to switch between latching and momentary-contact modes without exchanging parts, utilizing a torque-proof actuator and wedge-like operating drive for linear motion conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different encoding elements are used for latching and momentary-contact modes, then the operating attachment can provide different modes of operation, but the device complexity increases and part exchange is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the latching and momentary-contact functions into a single encoding element that can be positioned in different states. The encoding element includes both a latching portion and a momentary-contact portion, allowing it to provide both modes of operation without requiring multiple separate components or part exchanges.
Solution Approach 2:
The encoding element is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in a latching mode where it remains in a rotated position, or in a momentary-contact mode where it returns to its initial position. This universal design eliminates the need for different encoding elements for different modes, reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If encoding elements are exchanged to switch between latching and momentary-contact modes, then the operating attachment can change its mode of operation, but the ease of operation deteriorates and manual intervention is required
Solution Approach 1:
The encoding element is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable within the housing. It can be rotated or positioned to different states (latching position vs. momentary-contact position) without requiring removal or exchange. This dynamic adjustment allows easy switching between modes while the operating attachment remains assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The encoding element acts as an intermediary mechanism between the handling part and the operating element. By positioning the encoding element in different states, it mediates between the rotational input and the linear output, enabling mode switching without direct manual intervention or part exchange.
3Reliability
If the latching means secures the actuator element firmly, then the reliability of preventing unintentional rotation improves, but the ease of operation worsens due to difficulty in releasing
Solution Approach 1:
The latching means is designed with a preliminary release mechanism. The release portion of the encoding element is positioned to automatically disengage the latching means when the encoding element is rotated to a specific position. This preliminary anti-action ensures that while the latching is secure during normal operation, release is facilitated through a predetermined motion path.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching mechanism provides tactile feedback to the operator through distinct positional stops and engagement sensations. When the encoding element is rotated to the release position, the latching means disengages with a noticeable click or movement, providing feedback that confirms the latched state has been released, making the operation intuitive and easy to control.
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 easy switching between latching and momentary-contact modes without part exchange, ensuring secure operation and preventing unintentional rotation, thus enhancing usability and reducing installation complexity.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a torque-proof actuator and wedge-like operating drive for linear motion conversion
Data Source
AI summary
An operating attachment (10) for operating a push button or switch, which includes a housing, (12) a handling part (11) having an actuator element (19) supported by said housing (12) for rotation in a direction of rotation (U), an operating element (26) displaceable parallel to a longitudinal axis (L) of the housing for operating a push button or switch, an operating drive (37) for transferring rotary movement of the actuator element (19) into a linear motion of the operating element (26) between an initial position (A) and an operating position (B), and a latching device (42) for latching the actuator element (19) in a latched position (R). The attachment apparatus (10) further includes at least one encoding element (48) moveable between a first encoding position (K1) that allows for rotation of the actuator (11) into the latched position (R) and a second encoding position (K2) which limits rotation of the actuator element (19) prior to reaching the latched position (R). The illustrated encoding element (48) further is moveable to a third encoding position (K3).