Switch adapter

A switch adapter can include a base having one or more openings, a support coupled to the base, and one or more retainers for coupling a switch to the adapter. The support can have one or more openings between its interior and exterior. The retainer can be adapted to couple to at least one of the base, the support, and a combination thereof. The switch adapter can include one or more switches, such as a replacement switch, and can be adapted for replacing a limit switch with a proximity switch. A proximity switch can be coupled to a switch adapter in one or more positions, and a switch adapter can be adapted to couple with a plurality of different switch mounts. A switch adapter can include a mass compensator for adjusting its center of gravity.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO APPENDIX

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The inventions disclosed and taught herein relate generally to limit switches; and more specifically relate to adapters for proximity switches.

Description of the Related Art

Limit switches can be used in many operational environments to provide a changing electrical signal, such as by opening or closing a circuit, depending on the proximity of an object or target to the switch. Limit switches can be used for numerous different applications, which can include determining the presence, absence, passing, positioning, or end of travel of an object. In one common application, for example, a proximity switch, such as a magnetic proximity switch, can be used in conjunction with a valve to sense when the valve is in an open or closed position. Other types of limit switches include mechanical, lever arm type switches with an actuator linked to a set of electrical contacts; when the actuator comes in contact with an object, it can make or break an electrical connection.

A magnetic proximity switch can include a common electrical contact that is movable between two different contacts to complete either a first circuit or a second circuit. The common contact may include or be attached to a ferrous or magnetic sensing member that shifts in a first direction when a target, such as another magnet or ferrous structure, approaches within a certain distance, or sensing range, of the sensing member. The sensing member and/or the common contact may be biased to shift in a second direction when the target is disposed away from the sensing member beyond the sensing range. In this manner, the switch may make or break a circuit without physical contact between the sensing member and the target, whereas a lever arm switch may accomplish a similar result when the lever arm and an object move in and out of contact with one another.

Proximity switches can be used in relatively harsh operating environments, such as under water or in environments in which abrasives, such as dirt, metal shavings, and/or caustic chemicals, are present. Such environments can include sites for oil and gas extraction, chemical and petrochemical refineries, industrial plants such as steel mills, manufacturing and machining operations, and offshore or desert environments, among others. Proximity switches are also used in environments where fail-safe operation is of a top priority, such as nuclear power generation plants, and in environments in which equipment used must meet particular operating specifications, e.g., in order to prevent malfunctioning under extreme or other operating conditions. In nuclear applications, for example, some such specifications are intended to prevent malfunctioning of components under elevated seismic acceleration loading. In such applications, the center of gravity of a switch may be a relevant consideration in determining whether the switch is suitable for the application.

In some applications, it may be more desirable to use one type of limit switch instead of (or in some cases, collectively with) another type of limit switch. For instance, a magnetic proximity switch may be more desirable than a lever arm type switch in an application where it is desired or necessary to avoid contact between the switch and the target. In other instances, one may wish to replace one switch with another switch, such as when a switch has malfunctioned or surpassed its operating life. In these and other cases, a new switch may differ from an old switch, such as when switching from a contact switch to a contactless switch, from one switch manufacturer to another switch manufacturer, or from one switch arrangement to another switch arrangement.

When changing from one switch to another, such as from a lever arm switch to a magnetic proximity switch, etc., a problem can arise in that the bracketry or other mounting structure for the new switch may not match that of the old switch. Similarly, the mechanical attributes of the switches may differ, such as the masses, centers of gravity, or the like. This can call for design changes to existing equipment or other portions of a system, such as designs for new brackets, new targets, different electrical connections, or for other aspects of an application relating to the fit, form, or function of a switch at hand. In some cases, the time and expense of such changes can be significant, or even prohibitive. Thus, a need exists in the art for improved manners of replacing limit switches, including for replacing lever arm type mechanical switches with proximity sensors.

The embodiments disclosed and taught herein are directed to improved systems and methods for replacing limit switches.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include a base having one or more openings, such as thru or other openings, one or more supports coupled to the base, and one or more retainers. A support can have one or more accesses, such as one or more openings, which can include a first access and a second access, such as between an interior and an exterior of the support, or between two or more other portions of the support. A retainer can be adapted to couple to at least one of the base, the support, and a combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the support can be adapted to couple to one or more switches, such as a proximity switch, which can include a switch adapted to take the place of another switch. An access of the support can be adapted to receive or otherwise support at least a portion of a proximity switch there through or therein, in whole or in part. A second or other access of the support can be adapted to receive or otherwise support at least one of a portion of the proximity switch, an electrical or other component coupled to the proximity switch there through or therein. One or more retainers or other couplers can be adapted to retain the proximity switch (if present) in at least one position relative to the support, base, or another portion of the switch adapter.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include a base having plurality of openings therein or there through, which can include two or more sets or groups of openings, such as a first set of openings adapted to couple the base to the support and a second set of openings adapted to couple the base to a switch mount, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. Two or more sets of openings of a switch adapter or portion thereof can be adapted to couple with one or more couplers, such as fasteners, and can be adapted to receive two or more couplers from one or more directions, which can include two or more different directions and, In at least one embodiment, opposite directions. A switch adapter can be adapted to hold or otherwise support one or more proximity switches in one or more positions, and can include one or more switches coupled to the adapter, such as to one or more components or portions thereof, separately or in combination, in whole or in part.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include one or more retainers adapted to couple to one or more portions of the adapter, such as a retainer(s) coupled to at least one of the base and the support, e.g., with one or more couplers. The switch adapter and a retainer can have one or more mounting patterns, such as a first or other mounting pattern. In at least one embodiment, a plurality of openings of the base can include openings having a second mounting pattern, such as a mounting pattern for coupling with a switch mount, bracket, or other structure. In at least one embodiment, two or more mounting patterns, such as a first mounting pattern and a second mounting pattern, or other mounting patterns, can be different in one or more manners, such as by having a different configuration of couplers.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can be adapted to couple a switch to a switch mount, and can include a support adapted to couple to one or more switches, such as a magnetic proximity switch or other switch, and a base adapted to couple to one or more switch mounts, such as a mechanical limit switch mount or other switch mount. A switch adapter can be or include one or more at least partial enclosures, such as for at least partially enclosing a switch coupled with the adapter, one or more other components of the system, or one or more portions of any of them. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include an enclosure adapted to enclose at least a portion of a proximity switch within an interior of the enclosure. A switch adapter can include one or more lids or other covers adapted to couple to the adapter, such as to the support or base. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include a lid adapted to hold a retainer in one or more positions, such as in place relative to the support, which can include clamping or forcing at least a portion of the retainer between the lid and one or more other portions of the adapter. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include a base adapted to couple to one or more switch mounts, such as a bracket or other structure for holding a switch. A switch adapter can be adapted to couple with a plurality of different switch mounts, such as two or more switch mounts having mounting configurations that differ from one another, such as by having different arrangements of couplers (e.g., male or female), openings, mating structures, or other mounting components.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include one or more electrical components, such as junctions, terminal blocks, electrical couplers, or other components for electrical communication, which can include one or more electrical components coupled at least partially within an interior of the adapter or a portion thereof, such as a support or base. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can be adapted to couple in a plurality of positions relative to one or more switch mounts, which can include having a base adapted to couple a support in a plurality of positions relative to a switch mount.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can have an adjustable center of gravity, which can include having a mass compensator. In at least one embodiment, a mass compensator can include one or more weights or weighted structures adapted to couple to at least one portion of the adapter, such as to the base, the support, or a combination thereof. A switch adapter can include one or more weights adapted to be coupled to at least one of a base and a support in a plurality of positions, and a mass compensator can include one or more couplers for coupling one or more weights to one or more other components of the adapter. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include a mass compensator adapted to change the center of gravity of the switch adapter from a first center of gravity to a second center of gravity, such as by moving the center of gravity of the adapter, which can include moving the center of gravity among one or more locations. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include a mass compensator adapted to adjust the center of gravity of the switch adapter.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter system can include a proximity switch and a switch adapter. A switch adapter can include a base having a plurality of openings there through, a support coupled to the base, and one or more accesses from an interior to an exterior of the adapter. One or more retainers can be coupled to the adapter, such as to at least one of the base and the support. One or more proximity switches can be coupled to the support. At least a portion of a proximity switch can extend or otherwise be disposed at least partially within or through one or more accesses. At least one of a portion of a proximity switch and an electrical component or other switching component coupled to the proximity switch, directly or indirectly, can extend or otherwise be disposed at least partially in or through one or more accesses or other openings. A retainer can be adapted to retain a proximity switch in a plurality of positions relative to the support or another component of a switch adapter. A switch adapter can include one or more accesses in one or more sides, such as a first access disposed in one end of the adapter and one or more other accesses disposed in another end of the adapter, which can include opposite ends of the adapter or a component thereof. A switch adapter can include a plurality of openings or sets of openings, such as through the base, which can comprise a first set of openings and a second set of openings, or other groups of openings. Two or more openings or sets of openings can have different mounting patterns, which can be or include mounting patterns for different switches or switch mounts.

In at least one embodiment, a method of implementing a switch adapter according to the disclosure, such as for replacing a limit switch with a proximity switch, can include providing a switch adapter according to the disclosure. For example, a method can include providing a switch adapter comprising a base having a plurality of openings, a support coupled to the base, the support having a first access and a second access between an interior and an exterior of the support, and a retainer adapted to couple to at least one of the base and the support, wherein the retainer can be adapted to retain a proximity switch in at least one position relative to the support, and wherein the plurality of openings of the base can comprise at least two mounting patterns, such as mounting patterns matching a different limit switch mounting pattern or other pattern for a switch mount. A method can include removing a limit switch from a switch mount and coupling the switch adapter to the switch mount in place of the limit switch. A method can include coupling a proximity switch to a support with a retainer, which can include disposing a switch so that at least a portion of the switch extends at least partially through one or more accesses of a switch adapter. A method can include disposing a switch so that at least one of a portion of the switch and an electrical component or other component coupled to the switch extends at least partially through one or more accesses. A method can include adjusting the center of gravity of a switch adapter, which can include coupling at least one weight to the adapter or a component thereof, such as to the base, support, or another portion of a switch adapter, separately or in combination.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The terms “couple,” “coupled,” “coupling,” “coupler,” and like terms are used broadly herein and can include any method or device for securing, binding, bonding, fastening, attaching, joining, inserting therein, forming thereon or therein, communicating, or otherwise associating, for example, mechanically, magnetically, electrically, chemically, operably, directly or indirectly with intermediate elements, one or more pieces of members together and can further include without limitation integrally forming one functional member with another in a unity fashion. A coupling can occur in any direction, including rotationally. The terms “including” and “such as” are illustrative and not limitative. Unless otherwise indicated, the terms and terminology used herein encompass variations that would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art considering realities associated with a physical embodiment of the disclosure.

Applicants have created improved systems and methods for replacing a limit switch with another limit switch, such as for replacing a lever arm type switch with a magnetic proximity switch. One or more systems of the disclosure can be generally referred to as a switch adapter. A switch adapter can be a “universal” switch adapter adapted to replace any of a plurality of different switches with another switch, which can include replacing any of two or more switches having different mounting configurations with a switch having yet another mounting configuration. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can convert a switch mount from one mounting configuration, e.g., a mounting configuration for an existing lever arm switch, to another mounting configuration, e.g., a mounting configuration for a proximity switch substituted for the existing switch. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can be adapted for replacing a plurality of switches with a plurality of other switches. A switch adapter according to the disclosure can at least reduce the time and expense associated with limit switch replacement in some applications, such as when replacing a lever arm switch with a magnetic proximity switch, which heretofore can involve numerous design and implementation changes that, in some cases, can impede or even prevent replacement of an inferior switch with a superior switch. A switch adapter according to the disclosure can allow for replacement of one or more existing limit switches, such as in commercial or nuclear environments, without the need for replacing the existing switch mount, or bracket. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter according to the disclosure can allow for replacement of one or more existing limit switches without the need for replacing one or more of existing targets, junction boxes, mounting brackets, or other switching structures, which can include avoidance of a need for engineering level design changes to a system in which a switch is used, such as a valve control, valve top box, position sensing system, or other system utilizing one or more proximity switches or other limit switches.

FIG. 1is an isometric view of one of many embodiments of a switch adapter100according to the disclosure.FIG. 2is an exploded view of the switch adapter100ofFIG. 1.FIG. 3is an exploded isometric view of another of many embodiments of a switch adapter200according to the disclosure.FIG. 4is a top view of yet another of many embodiments of a switch adapter400according to the disclosure.FIG. 5is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a switch mount500comprising two switch adapters400according to the disclosure.FIG. 6is an isometric view of one of many embodiments of a switch adapter100having a mass compensator system134according to the disclosure.FIGS. 1-6will be described in conjunction with one another.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter100can include one or more bases102, such as a plate, mount, foundation, or other supporting structure, for supporting one or more other components of adapter100and for coupling adapter100to one or more other structures, such as a switch mount or bracket (see, e.g.,FIG. 5), which shall generally be referred to herein as a “mount” for purposes of simplicity and explanation. As will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefits of the present disclosure, depending on the application, a mount for a limit switch may have any of numerous different configurations for mounting a limit switch to a device or system for operation, and the term mount as used herein encompasses those configurations, whether now known or later developed. The mount500shown inFIG. 5for illustrative purposes is a switch mount adapting from a lever arm limit switch to a contactless proximity switch, which is but one example of many. Base102can be or include an at least substantially flat plate, or may include a plate or other bottom portion having one or more structures coupled thereto or extending therefrom, such as supports, aligners, posts, or other structures for coupling with one or more components of adapter100or a system including adapter100. Base102can include one or more openings104, such as partial or thru holes, slots, or other voids, for coupling base102to a mount or for coupling one or more other components of adapter100to base102, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. In at least one embodiment, base102can include two or more different openings104(seeFIG. 2), which can include sets or groups of openings104, such as a first set of openings104afor coupling base102to a mount, a second set of openings104bfor coupling base102to one or more other mounts, a third set of openings104cfor coupling base102with one or more components of adapter100, and a fourth set of openings104dfor coupling base102with one or more other components of adapter100. Adapter100can include one or more couplers106, such as screws, bolts, or other fasteners, for coupling base102to a mount or for coupling one or more other components of adapter100with base102, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. Two or more openings104or sets of openings104can be the same or different (e.g., in size, shape, threads (if present), pattern, etc.), as needed or desired for a particular application or implementation of adapter100. In at least one embodiment, two or more openings104or sets of openings104can be adapted to couple base102to a plurality of different switch mounts, separately or in combination with providing multi-axis adjustability of switch adapter100relative to a switch mount or of one or more other components of switch adapter100relative to base102.

In at least one embodiment, switch adapter100can include one or more supports108, such as an enclosure, bracket, or other structure for coupling with base102and supporting one or more other components of adapter100. Support108can, but need not, be formed integrally with base102, in whole or in part. Support108can include a top110, bottom112, and one or more sides, such as a first side114, a second side116, a front end118and a rear end120. As shown inFIGS. 1 and 2for illustrative purposes, support108can be generally rectangular and can have a cross-sectional shape that varies along a dimension in at least one direction, such as along its length, height, width, or a combination thereof, or for example, along one or more axes, such as an X, Y or Z axis, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. In at least one embodiment, support108can be or include a shape other than rectangular, such as circular, cylindrical, oblong, triangular, pentagonal, or another shape, which can be any shape desired for a particular application. For instance, support108be of a shape adapted to couple to a corresponding base102or other component of adapter100as well as to support a switch (further described below), which can differ among embodiments depending on one or more implementation-specific factors, such as the type of switch being supported, the type of switch mount at hand, or other considerations relating to implementation of a physical embodiment of a switch adapter according to the disclosure. Support108can include one or more couplers122(e.g., male or female couplers) for coupling with one or more other couplers (e.g., couplers106), such as threaded openings adapted to receive screws, bolts, or other threaded fasteners. The use of other couplers or sets of couplers is possible, such as rivets, snap lock couplers, tension couplers, biasing devices, or other couplers adapted to couple two or more of the components described herein.

In at least one embodiment, such as that shown inFIGS. 1 and 2for illustrative purposes, switch adapter100can include one or more lids124, such as a cap, cover, or top, for covering at least a portion of support108. In such an embodiment, which is but one of many, lid124can be coupled to support108and can at least partially enclose some or all of the interior126of support108, such as in cooperation with one or more sides114,116,118,120of support108and base102. In other words, in at least one embodiment, switch adapter100can be or include an at least partial enclosure for enclosing or housing at least a portion of a switch assembly300, which can include, for example, a switch302, a conduit304, such as a wire or set of wires, for communicating with one or more other components of a switching system in which adapter100is utilized, and a switch coupler306for coupling switch302with conduit304. In such an embodiment, lid124can be sealingly coupled to support108and/or base102, which can include the use of one or more seals (not shown) disposed between lid124and, e.g., support108, such as gaskets, O-rings, adhesives, or the like. In at least one embodiment, switch adapter100can be or include an at least substantially water- or air-tight enclosure, such as a hermetically sealed enclosure, for protecting a switch302or other components housed therein from an environment surrounding adapter100, which can, in at least one application, comprise substances potentially harmful to switch assembly300or to the operation of a component thereof, such as salt or fresh water, extreme high or low temperatures, dirt, chemicals, or other hazardous conditions. However, that need not be the case and, in at least one embodiment, switch adapter100need not be or include a sealed or at least substantially sealed enclosure.

More specifically, with continuing reference to the figures and particular reference toFIG. 3, a switch adapter200is shown. Switch adapter200, which is but one embodiment of many, can include a support208that generally functions in the same manners described herein with reference to support108for illustrative purposes, but which need not include enclosed sides or a lid. In other words, in at least one embodiment, a switch adapter200can include a support208having one or more open features, such as an open top210, or one or more open sides214,216, that allow fluid communication between an interior226of support208and a surrounding environment. An embodiment such as the exemplary embodiment of switch adapter200can be used, for example, in applications where a sealed housing or more complete enclosure is not needed, or, as another example, wherein more ready access to interior226or to a switch assembly300coupled with switch adapter200may be desired.

With continuing reference toFIGS. 1-3, support108can include one or more accesses128a,128b, etc., such as openings or holes, for cooperating with and supporting switch assembly300or one or more components thereof. For example, support108can have an access128afor allowing at least a portion of a switch302to pass through a wall or other portion of support108, which can include disposing a first end308of switch302, such as a sensing end, outside of interior126, e.g., for communication with a target (not shown). Access128acan be of a size and shape sufficient to allow a portion of switch302to pass there through and, in at least one embodiment, can be configured to hold switch302or a portion thereof in one or more positions relative to support108or one or more other components of adapter100. As another example, support108can have an access128bfor allowing one or more other portions of a switch assembly300to pass from interior126to the exterior of switch adapter100, such as a second end310of switch302, conduit304, or switch coupler306, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. Access128bcan be adapted to mate with or otherwise couple to second end310of switch302or switch coupler306for holding switch assembly300in place relative to switch adapter100. In at least one embodiment, switch adapter100can include one or more clamps130for coupling switch assembly300to support108, and at least a portion of access128b(or access128a) can be formed in or by the clamp130(if present). In such an embodiment, clamp130can be adapted to couple with a portion of switch302, switch coupler306, or a combination thereof, which can include clamping such component(s) in place against or relative to support108. For example, clamp130can include a moveable portion130aadapted to be coupled to a fixed portion130bwith one or more couplers132(seeFIG. 4), such as threaded or other fasteners. As another example, moveable portion130acan be adapted to be held in place by one or more other components of switch adapter100, such as by being clamped between lid124and fixed portion130b(seeFIG. 1) about switch302or another portion of switch assembly300, whether separately or in combination with the use of one or more couplers132. While accesses128a,128bare shown to be in front and rear ends118,120of support108for illustrative purposes, this need not be the case, and switch adapter100can include any number of accesses in any portion thereof (e.g., in one or more sides, the top, the bottom, or elsewhere) as needed or desired for an application or implementation, which can include comprising multiple accesses in any one side or other portion of support108or another component of switch adapter100. In at least one embodiment, one or more accesses128a,128b, etc., can be at least substantially sealed, including about a component disposed therein or therethrough, such as to prevent or minimize ingress or egress of water, chemicals, dirt, or the like. Sealing of an access can include the use of gaskets, sealants, O-rings, seals, or other sealing structures, such as metal-to-metal seals, sealing engagement between the access and a component coupled thereto, or the like.

With continuing reference to the figures, and specific reference toFIG. 4, another of many embodiments of a switch adapter according to the disclosure is shown. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter400can be adapted to house or otherwise support a plurality of switching components, such as a switch302and one or more electrical components312, such as terminal blocks, electrical junctions, wire connectors, quick disconnects, or the like. Such components can be coupled to any portion(s) of switch adapter400, such to base402or support408. As shown inFIG. 4for exemplary purposes, base402and support408can, but need not, be formed integrally with one another, in whole or in part. In at least one embodiment, second end310of switch302can be disposed within switch adapter400, as can be one or more clamps130for coupling switch302to base402or support408. Alternatively, or collectively, switch adapter400can include one or more clamps130coupled to switch302on the exterior of switch adapter400, such as for coupling switch302thereto or holding switch302in one or more positions relative thereto.

Turning more specifically toFIG. 6, another aspect of a switch adapter according to the disclosure will be described. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter100(200,400, etc.) can have an adjustable center of gravity, which can enable mass compensation or redistribution in one or more directions, or along one or more dimensions, of switch adapter100(e.g., along its length or width). Mass compensation or redistribution can take place in any direction or along any dimension according to a particular application at hand. In some applications, such as, for example, nuclear applications, a switch adapter can be required to meet one or more seismic specifications or standards (e.g., IEEE 323, IEEE 344, or IEEE 382), and a switch adapter having an adjustable center of gravity and/or mass according to the disclosure can facilitate compliance with such requirements. A switch adapter100can include a mass compensator system134for adjusting or otherwise changing the center of gravity of the adapter (whether separately or in combination with one or more switches or other components coupled to the adapter), such as by moving the center of gravity from one location to another location. A switch adapter100having a mass compensator system134can, in at least one embodiment, be adapted to mimic, match, or approximate one or more seismic characteristics of a switch, such as a switch being replaced with switch adapter100and a switch coupled therewith.

In such embodiments, switch adapter100can include one or more weights136adapted to couple with base102or another portion of adapter100, such as support108. For example, weight136can include one or more openings138, such as holes or slots, for receiving or otherwise coupling with couplers140(e.g., screws or other fasteners) for coupling weight136to another component. In at least one embodiment, openings138can have a mounting pattern that matches that of one or more sets of openings or other couplers in or on base102, such as openings104ddescribed above. One or more weights136can be selectively coupled to base102and/or support108in one or more positions and/or at one or more locations, which can move the center of gravity of switch adapter100, such as to achieve a desired center of gravity or weight distribution for a particular application or implementation at hand. Switch adapter100can include any number of weights136, such as one, two, three, up to ten, or more than ten.

In at least one embodiment, mass compensator system134can allow a user to achieve a desired center of gravity for switch adapter100without having to change one or more other aspects of an overall system, such as the position or weight of one or more other components, the position of one or more switches302(if present) relative to a support108or mount500, or other characteristics of a switching arrangement. In at least one embodiment, mass compensator system134can allow a user to achieve a center of gravity for switch adapter100that is the same as or sufficiently similar to a center of gravity, mass or weight arrangement of a switch being replaced by switch adapter100and/or a switch coupled thereto. Mass compensator system134can affect one or more characteristics of switch adapter100that may be evaluated in connection with seismic qualification procedures, such as the relationship between amplitude ratio and frequency ratio, which can be indicative of a device's ability to meet its performance requirements (e.g., stress or deflection parameters) during or following one or more seismic events. As will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefits of the present disclosure, the mass of a device, such as switch adapter100, a switch coupled thereto, or a switch to be replaced with a switch adapter according to the disclosure, can affect the loads applied to or acting on the device during seismic acceleration. In at least one embodiment, mass compensator system134can be used to change or adjust the mass of switch adapter100for obtaining a desired structural response under postulated event loadings, such as from a first response to a second response or one or more other responses.

As shown herein and described above for illustrative purposes, switch assembly300comprises a magnetic proximity switch (aka proximity sensor) such as that shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,766,751, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference. This need not be the case, however, and alternatively, or collectively, switch assembly300can include one or more other proximity switches or proximity switch configurations, such as one or more of the many different proximity switches available from General Equipment and Manufacturing Co., Inc., dba TopWorx, whether now known or later developed. As will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefits of the present disclosure, the switch adapters disclosed herein can be adapted to accommodate numerous different switches and switch configurations as needed or desired for a particular application or implementation at hand.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include a base having one or more openings, such as thru or other openings, one or more supports coupled to the base, and one or more retainers. A support can have one or more accesses, such as one or more openings, which can include a first access and a second access, such as between an interior and an exterior of the support, or between two or more other portions of the support. A retainer can be adapted to couple to at least one of the base, the support, and a combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the support can be adapted to couple to one or more switches, such as a proximity switch, which can include a switch adapted to take the place of another switch. An access of the support can be adapted to receive or otherwise support at least a portion of a proximity switch there through or therein, in whole or in part. A second or other access of the support can be adapted to receive or otherwise support at least one of a portion of the proximity switch, an electrical or other component coupled to the proximity switch there through or therein. One or more retainers or other couplers can be adapted to retain the proximity switch (if present) in at least one position relative to the support, base, or another portion of the switch adapter.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include a base having plurality of openings therein or there through, which can include two or more sets or groups of openings, such as a first set of openings adapted to couple the base to the support and a second set of openings adapted to couple the base to a switch mount, separately or in combination, in whole or in part. Two or more sets of openings of a switch adapter or portion thereof can be adapted to couple with one or more couplers, such as fasteners, and can be adapted to receive two or more couplers from one or more directions, which can include two or more different directions and, In at least one embodiment, opposite directions. A switch adapter can be adapted to hold or otherwise support one or more proximity switches in one or more positions, and can include one or more switches coupled to the adapter, such as to one or more components or portions thereof, separately or in combination, in whole or in part.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include one or more retainers adapted to couple to one or more portions of the adapter, such as a retainer(s) coupled to at least one of the base and the support, e.g., with one or more couplers. The switch adapter and a retainer can have one or more mounting patterns, such as a first or other mounting pattern. In at least one embodiment, a plurality of openings of the base can include openings having a second mounting pattern, such as a mounting pattern for coupling with a switch mount, bracket, or other structure. In at least one embodiment, two or more mounting patterns, such as a first mounting pattern and a second mounting pattern, or other mounting patterns, can be different in one or more manners, such as by having a different configuration of couplers.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can be adapted to couple a switch to a switch mount, and can include a support adapted to couple to one or more switches, such as a magnetic proximity switch or other switch, and a base adapted to couple to one or more switch mounts, such as a mechanical limit switch mount or other switch mount. A switch adapter can be or include one or more at least partial enclosures, such as for at least partially enclosing a switch coupled with the adapter, one or more other components of the system, or one or more portions of any of them. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include an enclosure adapted to enclose at least a portion of a proximity switch within an interior of the enclosure. A switch adapter can include one or more lids or other covers adapted to couple to the adapter, such as to the support or base. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include a lid adapted to hold a retainer in one or more positions, such as in place relative to the support, which can include clamping or forcing at least a portion of the retainer between the lid and one or more other portions of the adapter. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include a base adapted to couple to one or more switch mounts, such as a bracket or other structure for holding a switch. A switch adapter can be adapted to couple with a plurality of different switch mounts, such as two or more switch mounts having mounting configurations that differ from one another, such as by having different arrangements of couplers (e.g., male or female), openings, mating structures, or other mounting components.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include one or more electrical components, such as junctions, terminal blocks, electrical couplers, or other components for electrical communication, which can include one or more electrical components coupled at least partially within an interior of the adapter or a portion thereof, such as a support or base. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can be adapted to couple in a plurality of positions relative to one or more switch mounts, which can include having a base adapted to couple a support in a plurality of positions relative to a switch mount.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can have an adjustable center of gravity, which can include having a mass compensator. In at least one embodiment, a mass compensator can include one or more weights or weighted structures adapted to couple to at least one portion of the adapter, such as to the base, the support, or a combination thereof. A switch adapter can include one or more weights adapted to be coupled to at least one of a base and a support in a plurality of positions, and a mass compensator can include one or more couplers for coupling one or more weights to one or more other components of the adapter. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include a mass compensator adapted to change the center of gravity of the switch adapter from a first center of gravity to a second center of gravity, such as by moving the center of gravity of the adapter, which can include moving the center of gravity among one or more locations. In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter can include a mass compensator adapted to adjust the center of gravity of the switch adapter.

In at least one embodiment, a switch adapter system can include a proximity switch and a switch adapter. A switch adapter can include a base having a plurality of openings there through, a support coupled to the base, and one or more accesses from an interior to an exterior of the adapter. One or more retainers can be coupled to the adapter, such as to at least one of the base and the support. One or more proximity switches can be coupled to the support. At least a portion of a proximity switch can extend or otherwise be disposed at least partially within or through one or more accesses. At least one of a portion of a proximity switch and an electrical component or other switching component coupled to the proximity switch, directly or indirectly, can extend or otherwise be disposed at least partially in or through one or more accesses or other openings. A retainer can be adapted to retain a proximity switch in a plurality of positions relative to the support or another component of a switch adapter. A switch adapter can include one or more accesses in one or more sides, such as a first access disposed in one end of the adapter and one or more other accesses disposed in another end of the adapter, which can include opposite ends of the adapter or a component thereof. A switch adapter can include a plurality of openings or sets of openings, such as through the base, which can comprise a first set of openings and a second set of openings, or other groups of openings. Two or more openings or sets of openings can have different mounting patterns, which can be or include mounting patterns for different switches or switch mounts.

In at least one embodiment, a method of implementing a switch adapter according to the disclosure, such as for replacing a limit switch with a proximity switch, can include providing a switch adapter according to the disclosure. For example, a method can include providing a switch adapter comprising a base having a plurality of openings, a support coupled to the base, the support having a first access and a second access between an interior and an exterior of the support, and a retainer adapted to couple to at least one of the base and the support, wherein the retainer can be adapted to retain a proximity switch in at least one position relative to the support, and wherein the plurality of openings of the base can comprise at least two mounting patterns, such as mounting patterns matching a different limit switch mounting pattern or other pattern for a switch mount. A method can include removing a limit switch from a switch mount and coupling the switch adapter to the switch mount in place of the limit switch. A method can include coupling a proximity switch to a support with a retainer, which can include disposing a switch so that at least a portion of the switch extends at least partially through one or more accesses of a switch adapter. A method can include disposing a switch so that at least one of a portion of the switch and an electrical component or other component coupled to the switch extends at least partially through one or more accesses. A method can include adjusting the center of gravity of a switch adapter, which can include coupling at least one weight to the adapter or a component thereof, such as to the base, support, or another portion of a switch adapter, separately or in combination.

Other and further embodiments utilizing one or more aspects of the inventions described above can be devised without departing from the spirit of Applicants' invention. For example, a switch adapter according to the disclosure can include multiple triggering mechanisms, which can provide a user with a plurality of options for initiating switching. Further, the various methods and embodiments of the switch adapters according to the disclosure can be included in combination with each other, in whole or in part, to produce variations of the disclosed methods and embodiments. Discussion of singular elements can include plural elements and vice-versa.

The inventions have been described in the context of preferred and other embodiments and not every embodiment of the inventions have been described. Obvious modifications and alterations to the described embodiments are available to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefits of the present disclosure. The disclosed and undisclosed embodiments are not intended to limit or restrict the scope or applicability of the inventions conceived of by the Applicants, but rather, in conformity with the patent laws, Applicants intend to fully protect all such modifications and improvements that come within the scope or range of equivalent of the following claims.