Electric Switch Trim Plate Sub-Plate Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical switch finishing assemblies face challenges in achieving visual uniformity and material selection due to the dual aesthetic and mechanical roles of decorative frames, limiting the choice of materials for both functional and aesthetic purposes.
Innovation Solution
A finishing assembly where the finishing plate is mounted on a sub-plate that can be chosen for mechanical properties, allowing the sub-plate to be hidden, while the finishing plate material is selected for aesthetics, with retaining means that enable rotation of the control finger and include a rear stop with complementary cylindrical shapes, and a fitting mechanism that establishes or interrupts electrical contact based on the position of a tilting driver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a decorative frame is mounted in the opening to play both aesthetic and mechanical roles, then the mechanical function is achieved, but the visual uniformity of the finishing assembly is affected and material selection is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The finishing assembly is divided into two separate components: a sub-plate that provides mechanical support and mounting functions, and a finishing plate that provides aesthetic appearance. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical support function is extracted from the decorative element. The sub-plate is removed as a separate structural component that handles all mechanical requirements (mounting, control finger retention) while the finishing plate focuses solely on aesthetic purposes.
2Strength
If a decorative frame is used to play both aesthetic and mechanical roles, then mechanical support is provided, but the choice of materials is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The finishing assembly is divided into two separate components: a sub-plate that provides mechanical support and mounting functions, and a finishing plate that provides aesthetic appearance. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The sub-plate is designed to perform multiple mechanical functions (structural support, mounting surface, control finger retention) while the finishing plate handles aesthetic requirements. This functional distribution enables versatile material selection for each component based on its specific needs.
3Ease of operation
If the front face of the underplate is interrupted to allow control finger movement, then the control function is achieved, but the aesthetic appearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The finishing assembly is divided into two separate components: a sub-plate that provides mechanical support and mounting functions, and a finishing plate that provides aesthetic appearance. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to trim (200) for an electric switch, comprising a trim plate (210) exhibiting an opening (215) and a control button (220') housed in the opening (215), characterized in that the trim plate (210) is mounted on a planar front face of a sub-plate (230) which comprises means (241) of holding the control button (220) in the opening (215). An electric switch comprises a switchgear mechanism and such trim.