Removable Toggle Attachment for Circuit Breaker Lever
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Solution Overview
Problem
Switching devices, such as circuit breakers and contactors, have an uncomfortable operation due to a lever that is too small, requiring increased effort for operation, and existing solutions cannot accommodate different device sizes without adapting accessories.
Innovation Solution
A toggle attachment with a housing and recess, featuring fastening means like snap hooks or screws, allowing the attachment to be easily dismantled and reattached, effectively lengthening the lever to reduce operating force without needing accessory adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lever arm is lengthened to reduce operating force, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases and existing accessories can no longer be used
Solution Approach 1:
The operating element is divided into two separate parts: the existing control element and the removable toggle attachment. The toggle attachment includes a lever arm that extends from the control element, creating a longer effective lever arm for reduced operating force. This segmentation allows the lever arm length to be adjusted without redesigning the entire control element, thus improving ease of operation while managing device complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The toggle attachment is designed to be removably connectable to the control element, allowing the lever arm length to be dynamically adjusted. Users can attach the toggle attachment when reduced operating force is needed, or remove it when the standard configuration is sufficient. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction by allowing lever arm length changes without permanently increasing device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If the lever arm is lengthened to reduce operating force, then the ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability of existing accessories deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the control element from the lever arm extension (toggle attachment), the invention allows existing accessories to remain compatible with the base control element. The toggle attachment is an optional add-on that does not interfere with the standard interface, maintaining adaptability while providing the option for improved ease of operation when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The control element is designed to function both with and without the toggle attachment, making it universal. The same control element can be used in applications requiring standard operating force or reduced operating force, depending on whether the toggle attachment is present. This multi-functionality preserves adaptability across different use cases while offering improved ease of operation when the attachment is used.
3Ease of operation
If a removable toggle attachment is added to lengthen the lever arm, then the ease of operation is improved and adaptability is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The toggle attachment is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing and assembly processes compared to creating a completely new control element design. The attachment connects to the existing control element through a standardized interface, reducing the overall complexity increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The toggle attachment is designed as a simple, inexpensive add-on component that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. By using straightforward fastening mechanisms (such as snap-fit, screw, or clip connections), the attachment minimizes the complexity increase while providing the functional benefit of reduced operating force. The simplicity of the attachment design ensures that the added complexity remains minimal.
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 toggle attachment reduces the operating force required for switching, allowing convenient operation across all sizes while maintaining compatibility with existing accessories, enhancing user experience and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The toggle attachment has a lever that is longer than the lever of the control element, so that the operating force is reduced
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
The invention relates to a toggle attachment (2) for reducing the operating force on a control element (1) of a switching device, wherein the toggle attachment (2) has a housing with a recess. The invention is characterized in that the toggle attachment (2) has fastening means (16) which are designed such that, if necessary, the toggle attachment (2) can be removed from the control element (1).