Electric Switching Device Noise Reduction via Counterforce Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric switching devices generate loud noises due to the impact of the switching unit on a hard stop, which limits their use in noise-sensitive environments such as vehicle interiors.
Innovation Solution
An electric switching device design featuring a switching unit with a restoring element and a return spring that exert counterforces, balancing the restoring force and preventing the switching unit from striking a hard stop, thus eliminating noise generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a hard stop is used to limit the movement of the switching unit, then the switching device structure is simple, but loud noise is generated during switching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by introducing a return spring that exerts a counterforce on the switching unit before it reaches the stop position. This counterforce gradually reduces the switching unit's movement speed, cushioning the impact before it occurs and preventing the loud noise that would result from a hard stop impact.
Solution Approach 2:
The return spring acts as an intermediary element between the switching unit and the stop. Instead of the switching unit directly impacting the hard stop, the return spring mediates the interaction by providing a gradual counterforce, transforming the abrupt impact into a controlled deceleration process that eliminates noise.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a return spring is added to exert counterforce on the switching unit, then noise is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The return spring serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the counterforce needed to reduce noise, assists in returning the switching unit to its initial position, and works cooperatively with the restoring element. This multi-functionality justifies the added component by delivering multiple benefits from a single element.
Solution Approach 2:
The return spring is designed to work autonomously within the switching device, utilizing the natural movement of the switching unit to compress and expand the spring, which in turn provides the necessary counterforce. The system essentially serves itself by using the switching unit's own motion to activate the noise-reducing mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If the switching unit moves freely without counterforce, then the device operation is simple, but impact on the stop generates harmful noise
Solution Approach 1:
The return spring applies preliminary anti-action by exerting a counterforce on the switching unit before it reaches the stop position. This counterforce acts in advance to oppose the restoring force, gradually reducing the switching unit's velocity and preventing the harmful impact that would occur without this preliminary counteracting action.
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 results in a stop-free operation, reducing noise levels and allowing for quieter switching, with a 3.3 dB (A) noise reduction compared to traditional designs, and enables a more compact and material-saving magnet drive system.
Implementation Method 1
a restoring element which, at least in the second switching position, exerts a restoring force directed towards the first switching position and acting on the switching unit
Implementation Method 2
a return spring fastened to the switching unit and exerting a counterforce on the switching unit. The restoring force is directed toward the first switching position, while the counterforce acts in a direction opposite to the restoring force.
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement for an electric switching device is disclosed. The arrangement for an electric switching device comprises a switching unit having a first switching position and a second switching position, a restoring element exerting a restoring force on the switching unit in the second switching position, and a return spring fastened to the switching unit and exerting a counterforce on the switching unit. The restoring force is directed toward the first switching position, while the counterforce acts opposite to the restoring force.