Electric Switch Rocker Arm With Integrated Position Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric switch rocker arms lack a simple, tool-free, and robust mechanism for locking in definable positions, such as ON and OFF, without requiring additional shackle locks or complex assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A rocker arm design with a first part for setting positions and a second part that is movable between two positions, where in one position the first part can be moved into definable positions and in the other position its movement is blocked, integrated with a slotted link and holes for locking, allowing for locking without additional tools and using commercially available shackle locks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional blocking device with shackle locks is used, then the switch can be locked in definable positions, but the construction becomes complex and requires additional external components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the blocking function directly into the rocker arm by combining the first part (actuating element) and second part (blocking element) into a single unified component. This merging eliminates the need for separate external blocking devices and shackle locks, thereby reducing construction complexity while maintaining reliable locking capability in definable positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The rocker arm is designed with multi-functionality: the first part performs the actuating function while the second part performs the blocking function. This universal design allows a single component to serve multiple purposes (actuation and locking), eliminating the need for additional specialized blocking components and simplifying the overall construction.
2Reliability
If external shackle locks are used for blocking, then secure locking is achieved, but the operation requires additional tools and becomes less user-friendly
Solution Approach 1:
The rocker arm's second part is designed to automatically perform the blocking function without requiring external tools or separate locking mechanisms. The integrated design allows the component to serve itself by incorporating the blocking capability directly into the actuating mechanism, enabling tool-free operation while maintaining secure locking.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the blocking function into the rocker arm itself, the patent eliminates the need for separate external shackle locks and tools. The unified structure allows the blocking operation to be performed directly by the rocker arm's second part, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining locking security.
3Device complexity
If a simple rocker arm design is used, then the construction is robust and easy to handle, but the locking function in definable positions cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The rocker arm is segmented into two functional parts: the first part for actuation and the second part for blocking. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall construction simplicity. The divided structure enables the locking function to be achieved without adding complex external components.
Solution Approach 2:
The rocker arm achieves multi-functionality by incorporating both actuating and blocking capabilities within a single integrated component structure. This universal design allows the simple construction to perform multiple functions (actuation and position locking) without requiring additional complex assemblies or external blocking devices.
4Reliability
If additional blocking components are added, then locking in definable positions is achieved, but the number of parts increases and assembly becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the blocking function into the rocker arm's second part, eliminating the need for separate blocking components. This consolidation reduces the total number of parts and simplifies assembly, as the blocking capability is already integrated into the actuating mechanism rather than requiring additional separate components to be assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The rocker arm's integrated design provides multi-functionality, allowing a single component to perform both actuation and blocking functions. This universality reduces the number of parts needed and simplifies manufacturing and assembly processes, as the blocking function is built-in rather than requiring additional specialized components.
Data Source
AI summary
In a rocker arm of an electric switch, the electric switch is actuated by the rocker arm for setting definable positions. The rocker arm of an embodiment includes a first part, for setting the definable positions, and a second part, movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position of the second part, the first part can be moved into the definable positions; and in the second position of the second part, the movement of the first part is blocked.