Switching Device Roll Element Clearance Angle Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switching devices have a small clearance angle between ON-state and OFF-state positions of roll elements, limiting the size reduction of switching device assemblies.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating at least one roll spring connected between the frame and the roll element, which rotates the roll element further during an opening event, utilizing an actuator spring to enhance the clearance angle between ON-state and OFF-state positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a small clearance angle is used between ON-state and OFF-state positions of the roll element, then the switching device assembly size is reduced, but the clearance between open switch contacts becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a two-stage dynamic rotation mechanism for the roll element. During the opening event, the roll element first rotates with the actuator spring, then continues rotating with the roll spring to achieve a larger total clearance angle. This dynamic two-stage rotation allows the system to achieve both compact size and adequate clearance by optimizing the rotation path rather than using a static fixed angle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the clearance angle parameter from a fixed small value to a variable larger value through the introduction of the roll spring. The roll spring enables the roll element to rotate through a larger angular displacement, transforming the clearance angle parameter to achieve adequate contact separation while maintaining compact overall dimensions through optimized geometric arrangement.
2Reliability
If a large clearance angle is achieved between ON-state and OFF-state positions of the roll element, then the clearance between open switch contacts is adequate, but the switching device assembly size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rotation function into two distinct stages performed by different spring mechanisms. The actuator spring handles the initial rotation, and the roll spring handles the subsequent rotation to achieve the remaining clearance angle. This segmentation allows each spring to be optimized for its specific function, enabling adequate clearance without requiring a single large-rotation mechanism that would increase overall size.
Solution Approach 2:
The roll spring is nested within the existing actuator mechanism, with the roll element serving as the mounting point for the roll spring. This nested arrangement allows the additional rotation function to be integrated into the existing structure without requiring separate external components, thereby achieving larger clearance angle while minimizing increase in overall assembly footprint.
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 increased clearance angle allows for a more compact switching device assembly with adequate clearance between open switch contacts, reducing physical dimensions while maintaining effective operation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one roll spring connected between a frame of the switching device and a roll element of the switching device, the at least one roll spring being adapted to rotate the roll element further from the position corresponding to the ON-state during an opening event
Implementation Method 2
the roll element of the switching device according to the present invention is adapted to be rotated during an opening event first with at least one actuator spring operationally connected to the roll element through an actuator
Data Source
AI summary
A switching device including a frame, a roll element, a control shaft, a drive system and a roll spring. The control shaft is adapted to control rotation of the roll element such that rotating the control shaft from an ON-position to an OFF-position carries out an opening event in which the roll element transfers from a first position to a second position. The drive system includes an actuator and an actuator spring. The drive system is adapted to rotate the roll element during the opening event to an intermediate position located between the first position and the second position. The roll spring is connected between the frame and the roll element, and is adapted to rotate the roll element to the second position during the opening event.