Switching Module Holding Member with Dual Mechanical Coupling Elements

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrical switching systems are not scalable and require complex manipulations to switch between configurations, limiting their flexibility and adaptability for different applications.

Innovation Solution

The electrical switching system incorporates a holding member with multiple mechanical coupling elements that allow for various configurations with the control module, enabling easy transition between different operational setups by using transverse and axial coupling elements, and a protective cover for secure cable connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single mechanical coupling configuration is used between the holding member and drive device, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different configurations is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration adaptabilityVSAvoidcoupling element complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holding member is equipped with multiple mechanical coupling elements (first and second coupling elements) that can couple with the drive device in different configurations (first and second configurations). This allows the same holding member to adapt to various mounting orientations and system layouts, making the electrical switching system universally applicable to different installation scenarios without requiring custom-designed coupling mechanisms for each case.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical coupling function is segmented into multiple independent coupling elements rather than using a single monolithic coupling mechanism. The first coupling element is designed for coupling in a first configuration, while the second coupling element is designed for coupling in a second configuration. This segmentation allows each coupling element to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple mechanical coupling elements are provided for different configurations, then the configuration adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration flexibilityVSAvoidnumber of coupling elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple coupling elements are merged into a single integrated holding member structure. The first and second coupling elements are both incorporated into the holding member, allowing it to function as a unified component that provides multiple coupling capabilities. This merging approach reduces the total number of separate parts needed in the system, as the holding member itself becomes the multi-functional coupling device rather than requiring separate coupling mechanisms for each configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The holding member serves multiple functions: it holds the movable contacts and simultaneously provides multiple mechanical coupling capabilities through its integrated coupling elements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated coupling components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity despite the enhanced configuration adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If complex manipulations are required to switch between configurations, then the connection security is maintained, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration switching easeVSAvoidconnection security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, allowing the holding member to be coupled with the drive device in different configurations as needed. The presence of multiple coupling elements enables the system to transition between operational states (different configurations) without requiring complex manipulation procedures. Each coupling element is designed to facilitate easy engagement and disengagement, making the reconfiguration process simple while maintaining secure connections during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2602806B1Elektrisches Schaltsystem, das ein elektrisches Schaltmodul mit zwei Kupplungselementen eines Kontaktträgers mit seiner Antriebsvorrichtung umfasst
Publication Date: 2015.04.29 SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC IND SAS
  • EP2602806B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2602806B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2602806B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

This electrical switching system (10) includes first, second and third input terminals, a first (14A), a second (14B) and a third (14C) output terminal, an electrical switching module (16) and a switching module control module (18).The electrical switching module (16) comprises two first switches (30) and two second switches (32), each switch having a fixed input contact, a fixed output contact and a moving contact (36, 40), the two fixed contacts being connected via the moving contact in the closed position of the switch and isolated from each other in the open position of the switch, and a retaining member (45) for the moving contacts, adapted to be moved by an electrical drive device (48) between a first position and a second position, the retaining member (45) comprising a first element (60A, 62A) for mechanical coupling with the drive device (48) according to a primary configuration of the drive device (48) with respect to the switching module (16).The retaining member (45) includes a second mechanical coupling element (60B, 62B) with the drive device (48) according to a secondary configuration, the control module (18) includes the drive device (48), and the retaining member (45) is mechanically coupled to the drive device (48) via the first coupling element (60A, 62A) according to the primary configuration or via the second coupling element (60B, 62B) according to the secondary configuration.