Safety Switch Locking Unit with Transponder Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety switch arrangements in safety technology require improvements for compactness and reliability in securing access to hazardous areas, with a need for enhanced fail-safety features to ensure precise locking and monitoring functions.
Innovation Solution
A compact safety switch design featuring a locking unit with a blocking element that engages behind an actuator head, utilizing a spring-loaded rocker mechanism and a hinged armature magnet for secure locking, with transponder-based monitoring for error detection and adaptable contact force adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional locking mechanism with multiple components is used, then the locking function is reliable, but the device size becomes large and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking element and blocking element into a single integrated component that performs both locking and blocking functions simultaneously. This merging reduces the number of separate components while maintaining reliable locking functionality, directly addressing the contradiction between reliability and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides locking engagement, acts as a blocking element to prevent unauthorized access, and enables monitoring of the locked state. This multi-functionality reduces the overall device complexity while ensuring reliable operation.
2Device complexity
If a compact locking mechanism is used, then the device size is reduced, but the locking reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element is positioned within the opening of the locking unit, and the locking element engages behind the actuator head within the same compact structure. This nested arrangement achieves reliable locking and blocking functions in a compact form factor, resolving the contradiction between compactness and reliability.
3Device complexity
If the opening size is reduced for compactness, then the device is more compact, but it becomes difficult for the actuator head to be inserted and removed
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element is designed to be movable, allowing it to be deflected by the actuator head during insertion and then spring back to block the opening once the actuator is in place. This dynamic behavior enables compact opening design while maintaining ease of actuator insertion and removal.
4Ease of manufacture
If a simple locking mechanism is used, then the device is easier to manufacture, but fail-safety and monitoring functions are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a reading unit that detects signals from a transponder in the actuator to verify the locked state. This feedback mechanism provides monitoring and fail-safety functions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that is easy to manufacture.
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 provides a reliable, compact, and flexible safety switch arrangement that ensures secure locking and easy installation, capable of adapting to different actuators while maintaining high safety standards through precise locking and monitoring functions.
Implementation Method 1
The blocking element is held in the locking position by means of an actuating element with an application force
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a spring-loaded rocker mechanism and a hinged armature magnet for secure locking
Implementation Method 3
The locked position of the actuator is monitored by detecting signals from a transponder in the actuator in a reading unit of the safety switch
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
The invention relates to a safety switch (2) with a locking unit (12) by means of which an associated actuator (3) is held in a locked position. The locking unit (12) has an opening (9) and a locking element. In a locked position, the locking element projects into the opening (9) and engages behind an actuator head (8) of the actuator (3) in the locked position. The locking element is held in the locked position by means of an actuating element with an actuating force. When the actuator head (8) is inserted into or removed from the opening (9), the actuator head (8) deflects the locking element against the actuating force.