Solid-State Switch Lockout Using Optical Signal Interruption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical lockout devices are incompatible with non-mechanical-interfacing electronic switches, which lack movable control parts, posing a safety risk in hazardous environments where electrical arcing or sparking can occur.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical lockout device designed for non-mechanical-interfacing electronic switches, featuring a body with a locking mechanism and a protrusion that can be inserted through an aperture in the switch's housing to obstruct a light signal, thereby controlling the switch's operation without moving parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mechanical lockout devices are used on mechanical-interfacing electronic switches, then the switches can be securely locked and unlocked, but the devices are incompatible with non-mechanical-interfacing electronic switches that lack movable control parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical interface (movable control parts) with an optical interface (light signal path). The lockout device uses a light source and photodetector to detect the position of the control part, allowing it to work with both mechanical and non-mechanical switches. This substitution enables universality across different switch types without requiring physical movement or contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The lockout device is designed with dual functionality: it can interface with both mechanical switches (through the optical detection of movable control parts) and non-mechanical solid-state switches (through the same optical detection mechanism). The device incorporates both a light source and photodetector to create an optical sensing system that universally detects switch state regardless of mechanical movement, making it adaptable to various switch types.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical lockout devices are used on electronic switches in hazardous environments, then operational control is maintained, but the risk of electrical arcing or sparking increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mechanical contacts and moving parts in the lockout device by using an optical sensing mechanism. The light source emits light that passes through or is blocked by the control part, and the photodetector detects this light to determine switch state. This optical system replaces traditional mechanical electrical contacts, preventing arcing and sparking while maintaining operational control in hazardous environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light as an intermediary between the lockout device and the electronic switch. Instead of direct mechanical or electrical contact, the light signal serves as a mediator that transfers information about the switch state without creating electrical arcs or sparks. This intermediary approach allows operational control while eliminating the harmful effects of electrical discharge in hazardous atmospheres.
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 safe and effective means to lock and unlock non-mechanical-interfacing electronic switches, reducing the risk of electrical arcing and sparking in hazardous environments while maintaining operational control.
Implementation Method 1
a light emitting diode disposed in the housing. The light emitting diode is configured to emit a light signal along a signal path
Implementation Method 2
a photodiode disposed within the housing. The photodiode is configured to convert the light signal into an electrical current that operates the solid-state switch
Data Source
AI summary
A non-mechanical-interfacing electronic switch or a mechanical-interfacing electronic switch are controlled to modulate between an active state and an inactive state based on electronic action. The switch includes an aperture defining an opening in a housing, and the opening defines an insertion path. A transmitter transmits a signal to a receiver along a signal path. To control the non-mechanical-interfacing electronic switch, a mechanical lockout device having a protrusion is inserted through the opening of the aperture along the insertion path. To control the mechanical-interfacing electronic switch, a mechanical control part have a protrusion is moveable to interrupt the signal. Methods of locking the non-mechanical-interfacing electronic switch with the mechanical lockout device as well as methods of locking the mechanical control part of the mechanical interfacing electronic switch with the mechanical lockout device are also provided.