Two-Terminal Electronic Switch for Mechanical Relay Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Replacing mechanical switches with electronic switches is challenging due to the need for additional wiring to provide power to electronic sensors, which is costly and difficult, especially when trying to integrate them into existing systems without rewiring.
Innovation Solution
An electronic switch system that operates on two terminals, using a pressure or temperature-sensitive bridge array and electronic circuit, allowing it to function as a direct replacement for mechanical switches without requiring additional wiring by utilizing the input voltage to power the system and toggle between states based on threshold voltages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electronic switches are used to replace mechanical switches, then reliability and operational lifespan are improved, but additional wiring is required to provide power to electronic sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sensor, electronic switching element, and power management circuitry into a single integrated device that operates on two terminals. The sensor and switching element are merged into one component that can be directly replaced in existing two-wire systems without adding external power wiring.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic switch is designed to perform multiple functions within a two-terminal configuration: sensing environmental conditions (pressure, temperature, etc.), processing the sensor signal, and providing switching output. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate power wiring while maintaining electronic switch advantages.
2Duration of action of moving object
If electronic switches with permanent power supply are used, then operational life is improved, but system rewiring is required which is expensive and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic switch draws its operating power from the existing two-terminal circuit it replaces. The device autonomously manages its own power requirements by utilizing the voltage already present in the system, eliminating the need for external power supply wiring and expensive system rewiring.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electronic switches are integrated into existing systems, then functionality is improved, but additional power terminals are required
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic switch is segmented into functional modules (sensor, signal processing, switching element) that all operate within the two-terminal constraint. This modular segmentation allows complex electronic functionality to be achieved without requiring additional external terminals for power supply.
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
Enables seamless replacement of mechanical switches with electronic switches in existing systems without rewiring, maintaining system functionality and reducing operational costs by using the input voltage to power the electronic switch, thus eliminating the need for a dedicated power terminal.
Implementation Method 1
using a pressure or temperature-sensitive bridge array
Implementation Method 2
using a pressure or temperature-sensitive bridge array
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for a two lead electronic switch adapted to replace a mechanical switch. In one embodiment, a device is provided that includes a sensor and an electronic circuit having a voltage limiting circuit. The electronic circuit is configured to deactivate/activate the voltage limiting circuit to operate the electronic circuit in a first/second state in response to determining that an output of the sensor is less/more than a threshold voltage. The circuit includes first and second terminals configured to receive a switch voltage used to provide power for the device. The device sets the switch voltage to a first voltage level operative to power the electronic circuit and the sensor while the electronic circuit is operating in the first state and to a second voltage level operative to power the electronic circuit and the sensor while the electronic circuit is operating in the second state.