Switch Locking Mechanism for Contact Durability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switches with contact rivets have a short service life and require a longer switching time, which can damage contact elements, and lack a separate triggering function for the switching process.
Innovation Solution
A switch design where a holding device retains the contact holder in a closed circuit position until unlocked by an actuating slide, using a locking and unlocking mechanism with an elastic element to ensure consistent switching time and reduce contact element wear, independent of the actuating slide's speed and force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the contact holder is retained by the holding device in a locked position, then the switching time is reduced and contact element damage is prevented, but the device complexity increases due to the locking arrangement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arrangement combines the holding device, locking device, and unlocking device into a single integrated mechanism. The holding device has a body with a locking device that can engage with the contact holder, and an unlocking device that interacts with the actuating slide. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components while maintaining the reliability benefits of positive locking during contact closure.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding device acts as an intermediary between the actuating slide and the contact holder. It receives actuation forces from the actuating slide through the unlocking device, processes these forces through the locking device, and translates them into controlled movement of the contact holder. This intermediary mechanism ensures reliable switching while isolating the complexity from both the user interface and the contact elements.
2Loss of time
If a separate triggering function is provided for the switching process, then the switching time is reduced and contact element wear is minimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding device is pre-configured with the locking device in a ready-to-engage position. When the actuating slide is actuated, the unlocking device immediately triggers the release of the locking device, which then rapidly drives the contact holder to the closed position. This preliminary positioning and pre-loaded spring mechanism enable extremely fast switching without requiring complex real-time control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The triggering function is self-actuating through the interaction between the actuating slide and the unlocking device. When the actuating slide moves, it automatically engages the unlocking device, which releases the locking device. The stored energy in the spring then automatically drives the contact holder without requiring additional actuators or control systems. The system serves itself through its own mechanical configuration.
3Ease of operation
If the contact holder can be displaced freely without locking, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of contact closure is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The holding device transitions between two dynamic states: a locked state where the locking device engages with the contact holder to ensure reliable closure, and an unlocked state where the contact holder can move freely in response to actuation forces. The system dynamically switches between these states based on the actuation cycle, providing both reliability during closure and ease of operation during actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device applies a preliminary constraining force on the contact holder in the closed position, preventing any unintended movement or rebound. This preliminary anti-action counteracts any forces that might otherwise cause the contact holder to move away from the closed position, ensuring reliable contact closure while allowing free displacement during controlled actuation.
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 design enhances the durability of contact elements, maintains consistent switching time, and prevents unintended contact separation or arcing, improving the overall quality and reliability of the switch.
Implementation Method 1
the resetting device (4c) having a first end on the housing (1) is supported and exerts a restoring force on the holding device (4) that shifts the blocking device (4a) in the direction of a blocking position
Implementation Method 2
the actuating slide can shift the unlocked contact holder with the aid of an elastic element (2a)
Data Source
AI summary
The switch has a shell (1) provided with a stop frame (4), where a locking mechanism is arranged between the stop frame and a movable contact frame (3). An unlocking mechanism is arranged between the stop frame and an operation rod (2). The stop frame and the movable contact frame are locked via the locking mechanism. The operation rod is capable of driving the movable contact frame to move in the shell via a flexible element (2a), after the locking mechanism between the stop frame and the movable contact frame is unlocked.