Single Actuator Opening for Toggle and Slidable Dimmer Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dimmer switches often have cluttered and visually unappealing designs due to separate openings for switch and dimmer actuators, which can be confusing for users and occupy more space.
Innovation Solution
A dimmer switch design featuring a single actuator opening with a pivotable toggle actuator for on/off control and a slidable dimmer actuator for power adjustment, integrated within the same frame without visible partitions, providing a more streamlined and aesthetically pleasing interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If separate openings are used for switch actuator and dimmer actuator, then functional control is achieved, but device appearance becomes cluttered and space is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the switch actuator and dimmer actuator into a single integrated actuator unit that operates within one opening. The actuator features a toggle portion for on/off control and a wheel portion for dimming control, both accessible through the same opening, thereby eliminating the need for separate openings and reducing visual clutter while maintaining clear functional distinction through tactile feedback and operational mode
2Area of stationary object
If single actuator opening is used, then space is saved and appearance is improved, but operational clarity may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is designed with distinct local regions: a toggle portion for switching and a wheel portion for dimming. Each portion has unique tactile characteristics and operational requirements, allowing users to intuitively distinguish between on/off control and dimming control even though both are accessed through the same opening, thus maintaining operational clarity while saving space
3Adaptability or versatility
If two side-by-side actuators are used, then functional control is achieved, but device complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single actuator unit performs multiple functions: the toggle portion provides on/off switching control, while the wheel portion provides dimming control. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate switch and dimmer actuators, reducing device complexity and space occupation while maintaining full control functionality
Data Source
AI summary
A dimmer switch includes a housing having a frame having a single actuator opening therethrough. The opening has first and second portions. A controllably conductive device is disposed in the housing for adjustably controlling electrical power to a load. A pivotable toggle actuator is accessible through the first portion of the single actuator opening and pivotable between a first and second positions by a user. A slidable dimmer actuator is accessible through the second portion of the single actuator opening. The slidable dimmer actuator is slidable linearly within the second portion of the single actuator opening anywhere between first and second positions by a user. The pivotable toggle actuator is operable for controlling the controllably conductive device to turn on and off power to the load, and the slidable dimmer actuator is operable for controlling the controllably conductive device to adjustably control the level of power to the load.