Circuit design using switches puzzle

In summary, "Circuit design using switches puzzle" involves creating electrical circuits by strategically placing switches to achieve specific outcomes, such as lighting up bulbs or completing a circuit. The challenge lies in understanding the relationships between different components and optimizing the arrangement to meet the desired configuration, often requiring logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
  • #1
rampantschess
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TL;DR Summary: I am trying to design a circuit using juat a power source, 3 switches (1,2,3) and 3 Resistors (a,b,c) and wires. i want to design the circuit so it satisfies 4 conditions. the first being if all switches are on, the 3 resistors have current flowing in parallel, second, if only switch 3 is on, all 3 resistors are in series, third if switch 2 and switch 3 are on resistor a has current flowing only, and fourth if switch 3 and switch 1 are on then only resistor c has current flowing. I’ve been stump

I am trying to design a circuit using juat a power source, 3 switches (1,2,3) and 3 Resistors (a,b,c) and wires. i want to design the circuit so it satisfies 4 conditions. the first being if all switches are on, the 3 resistors have current flowing in parallel, second, if only switch 3 is on, all 3 resistors are in series, third if switch 2 and switch 3 are on resistor a has current flowing only, and fourth if switch 3 and switch 1 are on then only resistor c has current flowing. I’ve been stumped and dont know what to do. I’ve only been able to satisfy the first two conditions in the same circuit. I summarized the conditions into a truth table but I dont know if it can help me.
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF.

Please show us all of your work. We cannot help if you don't show us what you have done. Use the "Attach files" link below the Edit window to upload PDF and JPEG copies of your work. Thank you.

Also, is this for schoolwork?
 
  • #3
Okay here is what I've done, and its a question my prof asked us to think about, like a puzzle.

1710543417421.png
 

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  • #4
Okay, thanks. I'll move this to the schoolwork forums, and have a look at your work.
 
  • #5
@rampantschess
Have you considered the possibility that what you are trying to do is impossible?
It may be infinitely quicker to prove that it is impossible, than to solve it.

I would like to see the original problem statement. Do you have a link to where the original problem comes from?
 
  • #6
The original problem statement is just a truth table, I just omitted the combinations where none of the resistors/LED's have current flow.
 
  • #7
And yes I have considered the possibility that the problem might be impossible but he did not give us that as an inherent option which leads me to want to find a solution.
 
  • #8
rampantschess said:
And yes I have considered the possibility that the problem might be impossible but he did not give us that as an inherent option which leads me to want to find a solution.
Looks like proving that it's impossible could earn you extra credit... :smile:
 
  • #9
rampantschess said:
The original problem statement is just a truth table...
There must be some text also. That may contain misleading language. For example: Now that LEDs are involved, we can use diodes as part of the design.

Where did you find the truth table?
Where did the text come from?
 
  • #10
berkeman said:
Looks like proving that it's impossible could earn you extra credit... :smile:
BTW, you might get double-extra-credit if you got creative and solved the problem using SPDT switches instead of assuming SPST switches... :wink:
 
  • #11
Sorry, I haven't really tried this yet...
But what's the story with switch 3? It's always "on" as you described it.
Something seems wrong with the description.
 
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  • #12
rampantschess said:
The original problem statement is just a truth table, I just omitted the combinations where none of the resistors/LED's have current flow.
Show it to us. A good photo with your phone may suffice.
 
  • #13
Based on what we've been told and assuming it is an accurate description, I have figured it out. I'll give a clue. Don't worry about which resistor and switch is called A, B, C or 1, 2, 3 until after you have satisfied conditions. Seems counterintuitive, but that's how I solved it in about 5 minutes.
 
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  • #14
Averagesupernova said:
Based on what we've been told and assuming it is an accurate description, I have figured it out. I'll give a clue. Don't worry about which resistor and switch is called A, B, C or 1, 2, 3 until after you have satisfied conditions. Seems counterintuitive, but that's how I solved it in about 5 minutes.
I'll try this now, thank you!
 

FAQ: Circuit design using switches puzzle

What is a circuit design using switches puzzle?

A circuit design using switches puzzle is a type of logic puzzle where the goal is to create a functional electrical circuit using a limited number of switches and components. The challenge is to arrange the switches in such a way that they control the flow of electricity to achieve a specific output or solve a given problem.

What are the basic components involved in a circuit design using switches puzzle?

The basic components typically involved in such puzzles include switches (which can be either open or closed), wires to connect the switches, power sources (like batteries), and loads (such as lights or motors) that need to be powered. Sometimes, additional components like resistors, capacitors, or diodes may also be included to increase the complexity of the puzzle.

How do you approach solving a circuit design using switches puzzle?

To solve a circuit design using switches puzzle, you should start by understanding the desired outcome or the problem statement. Then, analyze the available components and their properties. Create a plan by sketching possible configurations and testing them mentally or on paper. Finally, build the circuit step by step, testing each part as you go to ensure it works as intended.

What are some common challenges faced in circuit design using switches puzzles?

Common challenges include ensuring that the circuit is complete and all connections are correct, avoiding short circuits, managing the correct flow of current, and understanding how different switch configurations affect the overall circuit. Additionally, complex puzzles may require a deeper understanding of electrical principles and components.

Can circuit design using switches puzzles be used for educational purposes?

Yes, circuit design using switches puzzles are excellent educational tools. They help students and hobbyists understand fundamental electrical concepts, develop problem-solving skills, and learn about the behavior of different electrical components. These puzzles can be used in classrooms, workshops, or as part of interactive learning modules to make learning about circuits engaging and hands-on.

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