Modular Switching Gear Assembly with Releasable Functional Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical switching device arrangements require separate and costly design frames for additional devices like socket outlets, motion detectors, and orientation lights, leading to an ugly and complex installation process.
Innovation Solution
An electrical switching device arrangement with a design module that allows for flexible mounting options using a single design frame covering multiple locations, enabling the integration of additional devices like loudspeakers, earthing contacts, or motion detectors without additional frames, using a releasable functional plate and actuating element with clip hooks and protective collars for water resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate design frames are used for additional electrical devices, then each device can be installed independently, but the installation becomes complex and costly with multiple frames required
Solution Approach 1:
The design frame is designed with multiple mounting locations and a modular functional plate system that can accommodate various electrical devices (switching devices, socket outlets, motion detectors, orientation lights) within a single frame structure, eliminating the need for separate frames for each device type
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate design frames are used for each electrical device, then installation flexibility is maintained, but the overall cost increases due to multiple frames
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple electrical devices that would traditionally require separate design frames are merged into a single design frame through the use of a modular functional plate system, reducing the total quantity of frames from multiple individual frames to one integrated frame containing all necessary devices
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional electrical devices are installed using separate design frames, then device functionality is preserved, but the visual appearance becomes ugly and uncoordinated
Solution Approach 1:
The design frame provides a unified structural framework that accommodates various electrical devices with different functions (switching, sockets, detectors, lights) while maintaining a coordinated and aesthetically pleasing appearance through consistent design elements across all mounting locations
4Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed functional plate is used in the design frame, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability for different device configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The functional plate is divided into separate, releasably insertable modules that can be independently configured and removed, allowing different device configurations while maintaining structural stability when modules are properly installed in the design frame
5Ease of manufacture
If the functional plate is permanently fixed in the design frame, then assembly simplicity is improved, but ease of repair and reconfiguration is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The functional plate consists of separable modules that can be easily inserted and removed from the design frame, enabling simple assembly and disassembly while maintaining a straightforward assembly process through the use of standardized mounting mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The functional plate transitions from a static, permanently fixed component to a dynamic, releasably mounted module that can be easily installed, removed, and reconfigured, providing both assembly simplicity and reconfiguration capability
Data Source
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AI summary
The assembly has an electrical switching device (1) i.e. rocker switch or key switch, comprising an operating element (2), and design components for covering installation places of the switching device. The design components comprise a design frame (3) and a function plate (4) that is inserted into the frame in a detachable manner. A clip hook (5) acting together with the frame is formed at the function plate, where the function plate has an opening (6). The opening is surrounded by a protective shroud (7) that is formed as a single-piece with the function plate.