Trigger Assembly With Radial Locking for High-Force Miniaturization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromagnetic release units for fire protection valves face limitations such as underutilization of holding force, dependency of release and holding forces, increased size and cost due to magnet volume, and manual reset requirements, along with inadequate miniaturization and sensor integration for monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A triggering device with a radially movable locking element and slider mechanism, utilizing a circumferential groove or recess, decouples release force from holding force, enabling miniaturization and high triggering forces, and incorporates a sensor module for automated monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the volume of the permanent magnet is increased to increase the holding force and release force, then the force level increases, but the size of the system increases and miniaturization is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic holding magnet system with a purely mechanical locking device. The locking device uses a locking element that can be moved between a locked position (where it engages with the actuating rod) and a released position. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for a permanent magnet, allowing high holding forces to be achieved through mechanical engagement rather than magnetic fields, thus enabling miniaturization while maintaining force levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter from magnetic force to mechanical engagement force. By using a locking element that physically engages with the actuating rod through geometric interlocking (such as a cam mechanism or latch), the system achieves high holding forces without requiring large volumes of magnetic material. This parameter change allows the system to be miniaturized while maintaining or even increasing the force level.
2Speed
If electromagnetic release units are used to achieve short switching times, then response speed improves, but the system requires manual reset and cannot be immediately operational after triggering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-resetting mechanism where the locking element automatically returns to the locked position after the actuating rod has been displaced. The spring-loaded locking element is pushed outward during the triggering event but automatically re-engages with the actuating rod when the rod returns to its initial position, eliminating the need for manual reset operations and allowing the system to be immediately operational again after triggering.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a locking device with radially movable locking element is used, then the release force can be decoupled from holding force, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the locking mechanism into distinct functional components: a locking element with defined engagement surfaces, an actuating rod with corresponding geometric features, and a spring mechanism. This segmentation allows the holding function (provided by the engaged locking element) and the release function (provided by the spring and actuator) to be independently designed and adjusted, enabling force decoupling while keeping each component relatively simple.
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
Achieves high triggering forces with miniaturized design, independent release force, automated reset, and integrated monitoring, reducing costs and sensitivity to external accelerations.
Implementation Method 1
The required release force to open the valve is stored as spring energy and held by the attractive force of the permanent magnet
Implementation Method 2
The required release force to open the valve is stored as spring energy and held by the attractive force of the permanent magnet
Implementation Method 3
The electromagnet's armature disc also moves toward the pole core, partly due to the attractive force of the permanent magnetic field
Implementation Method 4
Applying an electric current neutralizes the permanent magnetic field, and the stored spring energy is released
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a release device, in particular for valves of fire protection systems, hydrogen applications and the like, as well as for mechanical devices such as roll bars and pedestrian protection devices on motor vehicles, comprising a housing, an actuating rod which is axially displaceable in and against a release direction on or in the housing, a release spring for biasing the actuating rod in the release direction, and a locking device for locking the actuating rod in a biased position against the action of the release spring, wherein the locking device has at least one locking element, wherein the actuating rod can be released by means of a movement of the locking element, wherein the actuating rod has a circumferential groove or a recess, and wherein the locking element is arranged to be movable in the radial direction relative to the actuating rod.wherein the locking element engages in the circumferential groove or the recess of the actuating rod in a locking position and is arranged outside the circumferential groove or the recess of the actuating rod in a release position, and wherein a slide is provided which is mounted to be axially displaceable in the housing and which in a first position blocks the at least one locking element in the circumferential groove or in the recess of the actuating rod and in a second position allows movement of the locking element out of the circumferential groove or out of the recess.