Waterproof Electrical Switch Front-Mounted Sealing Trim
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sealed electrical switches are bulky due to their design, which compromises their compactness and durability.
Innovation Solution
The electrical switch design features a flexible sealing membrane stretched over a rigid frame attached to a trim frame, which supports the switching mechanism and ensures sealing, thereby reducing the overall size by mounting the base from the front, allowing the trim to perform both supporting and sealing functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the trim is provided with a sealing membrane and attached above the switching mechanism to ensure sealing, then the sealing integrity is improved, but the total height and overall size of the electrical switch increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing membrane and the trim into a single integrated component. The trim is provided with a sealing membrane that is integral to its structure, allowing the trim to simultaneously perform both structural support and sealing functions. This merging eliminates the need for separate sealing components, thereby reducing the total height while maintaining sealing integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The trim is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides structural support for the switching mechanism, ensures sealing through the integrated sealing membrane, and maintains a compact profile. By making the trim multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for additional components that would increase the overall size.
2Length of stationary object
If the base of the switching mechanism is mounted from the front on the trim frame, then the total height is reduced, but the mounting complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of mounting the trim frame from the rear or side of the base, the patent inverts the mounting direction by attaching the base from the front on the trim frame. This inversion allows for a more compact vertical profile while the front mounting approach simplifies the structural arrangement, reducing the perceived complexity.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the flexible sealing membrane is stretched over a rigid frame attached to the trim frame, then the sealing durability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite sealing structure consisting of a flexible sealing membrane stretched over a rigid frame. The rigid frame provides structural stability and shape retention, while the flexible membrane provides the sealing function and adaptability. This composite approach enhances sealing durability by combining the advantages of both rigid and flexible materials in a single integrated sealing system.
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
This configuration achieves a durable seal while significantly reducing the size of the electrical switch, enhancing its compactness without compromising the sealing integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible sealing membrane placed at the front of the switching mechanism, above said at least one driver, so as to isolate the electrical and/or electronic elements of the switching mechanism from the outside
Implementation Method 2
These control means act through the sealing membrane to actuate the switching mechanism
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a sealed electrical switch (100) comprising: a switching mechanism (110) having a base (111) enclosing electrical and/or electronic components (112), a flexible sealing membrane (130) that isolates the electrical and/or electronic components of the switching mechanism from the outside, and a cover plate (120) having a decorative frame (150). According to the invention, the base of the switching mechanism is mounted from the front onto the decorative frame.