Universal Switch Operating Element With Damping And Return Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing KNX operating devices require separate operating elements for each installation device range and color, leading to inefficiencies in manufacturing and stock management for sockets, switches, dimmers, and buttons.
Innovation Solution
A button operating element with a spring-loaded axle receptacle and compression springs that automatically returns to a neutral position, combined with damping elements and ribbed switch plungers to prevent microswitch damage, allowing the use of conventional rocker switches and cover frames across various installation device ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate operating elements are manufactured for each installation device range and color, then the operating elements can be specifically tailored to each application, but the manufacturing complexity and stock management become significantly more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The operating element is designed with a universal mounting structure featuring a support ring with standardized receptacles that can accommodate different rocker switch inserts and cover frames. This allows a single base operating element to serve multiple installation device ranges and colors by simply changing the cosmetic inserts rather than manufacturing entirely separate operating elements for each variant.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating element is divided into separate functional components: a base operating element with the actuating mechanism, and interchangeable cosmetic inserts (rocker switches, cover frames) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows the functional part to be standardized while the cosmetic parts can vary to match different installation device ranges and colors.
2Reliability
If excessive pressure is applied to microswitches during actuation, then the switching action is ensured, but the microswitches may be damaged or destroyed
Solution Approach 1:
Damping elements are provided between the rocker switch insert and the support ring to limit the stop of the operating element during actuation. These damping elements absorb excess energy and prevent the rocker from applying excessive pressure to the microswitches, thereby protecting them from damage while still ensuring reliable switching action.
3Device complexity
If the operating element lacks a return mechanism, then the structure is simpler, but the operating element cannot be returned to its neutral rest position after actuation
Solution Approach 1:
A spring element is provided that acts on the axle of the rocker switch to provide a restoring force. This spring element automatically returns the operating element to its neutral rest position (center position parallel to the support ring) after actuation, eliminating the need for complex manual reset mechanisms while maintaining structural simplicity.
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 the use of conventional rocker switches and cover frames as single or double control elements, improving switching reliability and feel, and reducing manufacturing complexity by utilizing existing components.
Implementation Method 1
at least one compression spring resiliently acts on the axle in such a way that the straight contact surfaces are pressed against one another
Implementation Method 2
damping elements are provided to limit the stop of the operating element
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~7
Figure 8~9
AI summary
The switch has a flush-mounted insert (2) including housing upper and lower parts and a supporting ring (3), and an operating element designed as a compensator of installation device-program. Micro switches are mounted on a printed circuit board, and the insert comprises a rocker switch-support for accommodating a rocker switch. The rocker switch comprises switching arms (16, 17) for operating the micro switches over separate control bucket tappets (18, 19). Damping elements limit impact of the operating element, where the insert includes a connection area for a KNX-socket.