Switching Spring for Machine Tool Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical switch devices for machine tools, such as battery-driven screwdrivers, face challenges in maintaining reliable contact over long operating times without damage from operational forces, especially when using soldering connections that can be stressed by user action.
Innovation Solution
A switch device incorporating a switching spring that moves relative to the housing, combining force application and contact functions, with optional soldering or mechanical connections to a mounting plate, ensuring reliable circuit closure and force distribution through elastic properties and supporting sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If soldering connections are used to fasten contact elements and mating contact elements, then the electrical circuit can be safely closed over long operating time, but the connections may detach when acted upon with force during switching element operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spring element as an intermediary component between the switching element and the contact elements. This spring element absorbs and distributes the forces generated during switching operation, preventing these forces from being directly transmitted to the soldering connections. The spring element acts as a force-distributing mediator that protects the vulnerable solder joints while ensuring reliable circuit closure.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element provides beforehand cushioning by being pre-installed in a tensioned state that absorbs impact forces before they can damage the soldering connections. When the switching element is actuated, the spring element compresses to cushion the force, preventing sudden stress spikes that would otherwise detach the connections from the mounting plate.
2Reliability
If contact elements are firmly fastened to the mounting plate, then the electrical circuit closes reliably, but the forces during operation can damage the components and detach connections
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element serves as a protective intermediary between the switching element and the contact elements mounted on the plate. It absorbs and distributes the harmful forces generated during switching operation, preventing these forces from damaging the contact elements or detaching them from the mounting plate, while still ensuring reliable electrical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element changes its mechanical parameter (compression state) during operation to absorb forces. By transitioning from a relaxed state to a compressed state, the spring element dynamically adjusts to the forces applied during switching, protecting the contact elements from damage while maintaining reliable electrical connection.
3Ease of operation
If the switching element is held in a translatorily adjustable manner, then the switching motion is smooth, but the forces during operation can still damage the components
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element acts as a force-absorbing intermediary between the smoothly moving switching element and the stationary contact elements. It decouples the smooth translational motion from the force transmission, allowing the switching element to move smoothly while the spring element absorbs the forces to prevent component damage.
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
Ensures reliable and durable operation by limiting forces acting on components, preventing damage and maintaining circuit closure over extended use, with the switching spring's elastic properties and supporting sections distributing forces effectively.
Implementation Method 1
the contact element, which is actuated by the switching element, is a switching spring which, because of its internal stress, is acted upon to move to the out-of-contact position
Data Source
AI summary
An electric switch device for a machine tool has a switch-side contact element, that is held movably and is in contact, in a contact position, with a mating contact element so as to close a circuit. The switch-side contact element is a switching spring, which is acted upon by its internal stress to move into the out-of-contact position.