Electronic device coupled to the fuse holder for signaling the burnout of the fuse link in fuse switches and reclosing bases of any voltage class.

Description

- 1 / 8 ELECTRONIC DEVICE ATTACHED TO THE FUSE HOLDER FOR SIGNALING THE BURNING OF THE FUSE LINK IN FUSE SWITCHES OF TRANSFORMERS IN DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS AND RECLOSING BASES OF ANY VOLTAGE CLASS. Field of Application

[001] This utility model patent application is intended for electric power companies, utilities, maintenance and installation companies that need to monitor and quickly identify fuse burnouts in their distribution networks. Preamble

[002] This utility model application refers to a device that can be applied in low, medium, and high voltage electrical networks, in fuse switches and recloser bases, in both urban and rural areas. The device can be used in electrical equipment such as transformers and distribution networks that use fuse bases and recloser bases for protection. State of the Art

[003] Signaling a blown fuse link in fuse switches is a crucial aspect of ensuring the safety and efficiency of electrical power distribution networks. When a fuse blows, it interrupts the electrical current to protect the circuit against overloads and short circuits. Quick and accurate identification of a blown fuse is essential so that maintenance teams can act promptly, restoring power and preventing damage to equipment.

[004] There are different methods of signaling a blown fuse link in fuse switches, such as fuses that have a visual indicator, like a small window that changes color when the fuse blows. However, these indicators may not be visible from a distance or in low light conditions. There are current sensors that can be used to monitor the current in electrical circuits and detect blown fuses. However, these sensors can be more complex and expensive. Petition 870250074791, dated 08 / 22 / 2025, p. 6 / 21 - 2 / 8

[005] Remote Monitoring Systems that use sensors and wireless communication to monitor the status of electrical equipment, including fuses. However, these systems can be more complex and expensive, and may not be suitable for all applications. Drawbacks of Existing Methods

[006] Limited Visual Indicators: Difficulty in Visualization: Simple visual indicators, such as color-changing windows, can be difficult to see from a distance, especially on extensive power lines or in low-light conditions (e.g., poles at night). Need for Manual Inspection: Require manual inspection, which can be time-consuming and laborious, especially in hard-to-reach or hazardous locations.

[007] Audible Alarms: Noise Pollution: In noisy urban or industrial areas, the audible alarm may not be heard, making it ineffective. Imprecise Location: The audible alarm may indicate a blown fuse, but not its exact location, hindering the work of the maintenance team.

[008] Remote Monitoring: High Cost: Implementing remote monitoring systems can be expensive, especially for smaller power grids or those with budget constraints. Complexity: They require communication infrastructure and management software, which can be complex to install and maintain. Power Dependence: In the event of a power outage, the remote monitoring system may become inoperative.

[009] The proposed device overcomes the limitations of conventional visual indicators, which can be difficult to visualize in certain situations, and offers a more efficient and safer solution for maintenance and operation teams of electrical networks. Its easy installation and low cost make it a viable alternative for modernizing protection and signaling systems, contributing to the reduction of power supply interruption time and optimizing maintenance processes. Petition 870250074791, dated 08 / 22 / 2025, p. 7 / 21 - 3 / 8 Innovation Objective

[010] In view of the particularities found in the state of the art, particularly with regard to the signals of fuse link burnout in fuse switches, one of the objectives of this utility model patent application is to provide a solution, where an electronic device is provided that facilitates the identification of fuse link burnout in fuse switches and reclosing bases, in a fast, visual and reliable manner.

[011] Another objective of this utility model patent application is to propose a device that uses high-intensity red LEDs, which are visible from a distance and under different lighting conditions, making it easier to identify a blown fuse.

[012] Another objective of this utility model patent application is to propose a device that continuously monitors the fuse status and automatically signals when it has blown, eliminating the need for manual inspection.

[013] Another objective of this utility model patent application is to propose a cost-effective device, as it offers a more accessible and simple alternative to remote monitoring, ideal for smaller electrical networks or those with budget constraints.

[014] Another objective of this utility model patent application is to propose a device that is easy to install and maintain, since installation is simple and maintenance is limited to recharging the battery via USB, making it a practical and efficient solution.

[015] Another objective of this utility model patent application is to propose a device that provides enhanced safety, as it facilitates the rapid identification of blown fuse links, allowing maintenance teams to act promptly, reducing the risk of accidents. In the event of opening a switch that does not have a blown fuse link, there is a risk of an electric arc, which can cause accidents and damage. Petition 870250074791, dated 08 / 22 / 2025, page 8 / 21 - 4 / 8 to the electrical network equipment, with this Utility model the burning of the fuse link becomes evident.

[016] Another objective of this utility model patent application is to propose a device that reduces costs and downtime, as it speeds up the repair process, decreasing the interruption time in the power supply and the associated costs.

[017] Another objective of this utility model patent application is to propose a device that improves maintenance efficiency and allows maintenance teams to focus on other tasks, instead of wasting time on manual fuse inspections.

[018] Another objective of this utility model patent application is to propose an innovative and efficient solution to the challenges of signaling fuse link burnout, contributing to the safety, reliability and efficiency of electrical networks, something unprecedented in the state of the art. Brief Description of the Innovation

[019] In view of the inconveniences found in the state of the art, the subject matter of this utility model patent application was developed, which consists of “ELECTRONIC DEVICE ATTACHED TO THE FUSE HOLDER FOR SIGNALING THE BURNING OF THE FUSE LINK IN FUSE SWITCHES OF TRANSFORMERS IN DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS AND RECLOSING BASES OF ANY VOLTAGE CLASS”, where the ÉLOGUARD is an innovative electronic device to facilitate the identification of the burning of fuse links in fuse switches and reclosing bases, widely used in electrical power distribution networks. The device, attached to the fuse holder, uses high-intensity flashing red LEDs to signal the burning of the link, allowing quick and reliable visual identification of the event, even at a distance and in low light conditions. Description of the Figures Petition 870250074791, dated 08 / 22 / 2025, page 9 / 21 - 5 / 8

[020] The “ELECTRONIC DEVICE ATTACHED TO THE FUSE HOLDER FOR SIGNALING THE BURNING OF THE FUSE LINK IN FUSE SWITCHES OF TRANSFORMERS IN DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS AND RECLOSING BASES OF ANY VOLTAGE CLASS” object of this utility model patent application will be described in detail with reference to the drawings below, in which:

[021] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of the device coupled to the fuse holder of the fuse switch;

[022] Figure 2 illustrates a front view of the device;

[023] Figure 3 illustrates a rear view of the device;

[024] Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the device;

[025] Figure 5 illustrates a front view of the internal and external components of the device;

[026] Figure 6 illustrates a front view of the device diagram. Detailed Description of the Innovation

[027] The “ELECTRONIC DEVICE ATTACHED TO THE FUSE HOLDER FOR SIGNALING THE FUSE LINK BURNTOUT IN FUSE SWITCHES OF DISTRIBUTION NETWORK TRANSFORMERS AND RECLOSING BASES OF ANY VOLTAGE CLASS” object of this utility model patent application is an electronic device 1 that has external parts and internal components, where the external parts are a body 100 to accommodate the parts and components, an external red cover 107 to protect the internal components from weather (sun, rain, wind) and other elements that may damage them, as well as allowing visualization of the LED signaling 102, a pressure clamp 108 to attach the device 1 to the fuse holder 201, an upper cover 110 and a lower cover 111 with an actuation needle 109 on the side that connects to the fuse link 202 and in microswitch 103 (internal component). (Figures 2, 3, 4 and 5).

[028] The internal components are: an Electronic Circuit Board (PCB) Petition 870250074791, dated 08 / 22 / 2025, p. 10 / 21 - 6 / 8 101 with microcontrollers such as SMD resistors that limit current to the LED (R1, R2, R3) and SMD capacitors that stabilize voltage and filter noise (C1 and C2), better known as the brain of the device 1, being responsible for processing signals, controlling the LEDs 102 and managing the battery power 105. Signaling LEDs 102 which are high-intensity red LEDs that emit intermittent light to indicate a blown fuse. Microswitch 103 which detects mechanical changes in the fuse holder, closing the power supply circuit of the circuit board 101. Tilt Switch 104 has an internal regulator (U2) that protects against overload or overcurrent.The on / off switch 112, coupled to the tilt switch 104, has the function of turning off the tilt switch 104. The switch in the “D” position turns off the tilt switch and causes the LEDs 102 to light up when link 202 burns out, provided the fuse holder 201 is in the vertical and horizontal positions. The on / off switch 112 in the “L” position activates the tilt switch and turns on the LEDs 102 only when link 202 burns out and the fuse holder 201 is in the vertical position (without falling). Rechargeable Battery (5V) 105 is the power source for device 1, rechargeable via USB, has an LED indicator for charging status on battery 105 and a main controller (U1) that manages the charging / discharging of battery 105. USB cable 106 is used to recharge battery 105, facilitating maintenance of device 1. (Figure 5).

[029] Device 1 is fixed to the fuse holder 201 of the fuse switch 200 by a pressure clamp 108, after being fixed, pull the fuse link 202 to the right to connect the needle 109 to the fuse link 202. (Figure 1).

[030] The actuation needle 109 after being connected to the fuse link 202 monitors its status and, if a burnout occurs, immediately signals via high-intensity flashing red LEDs 102.

[031] The actuating needle 109, made of durable material, interacts reliably with the microswitch 103, ensuring precise activation of the system. How the device works Petition 870250074791, dated 08 / 22 / 2025, page 11 / 21 - 7 / 8

[032] a) When the fuse link 202 burns out, the fuse holder 201 undergoes a mechanical change causing the fuse link 202 to break, as the spring becomes tensioned. When the fuse link 202 bursts, the spring returns to its place, releasing the actuating needle 109, which closes the internal microswitch 103 to power the internal system of device 1.

[033] b) The microswitch 103 closes the contact and provides power to the electronic circuit board (PCB) 101, which contains the microcontrollers (R1, R2, R3) (C1 and C2) and the control circuits.

[034] c) The microcontroller limits the current to the LED, stabilizes the voltage and filters noise, after the closing of the electrical contact of the microswitch 103, activates the high-intensity red LEDs 102, which begin to flash in a predefined pattern. This flashing pattern is designed to be easily recognizable and differentiated from other signals, ensuring that the fuse blowing is promptly identified.

[035] d) The tilt switch 104 assists in activating the circuit and has a regulator that protects against overload or overcurrent (U2). This component ensures that the device only operates when the equipment (fuse switch or recloser base) is in its normal operating position, preventing false activations due to vibrations or sudden movements. Internal System Operation

[036] For better understanding, consider figure 6 and the named components, where: U1: Main controller (manages battery charging / discharging). 105 U2: Regulator (protects against overload or overcurrent) - 104 R1, R2, R3: SMD resistors (limit current to LED) - 101 C1, C2: SMD capacitors (stabilize voltage and filter noise) - 101 LED: Battery charging status indicator - 105 Flashing Red LED: Pulsating on and off - 102 Petition 870250074791, dated 08 / 22 / 2025, page 12 / 21 - 8 / 8 USB Connector: Power input for charging the battery - 106 BAT+ / BAT-: Battery connection terminals - 105 On / Off switch: Controls the overall power supply. Microswitch: Activates power when pressed - 103 Tilt Switch 104: Closes the circuit when tilted, activating the final power supply to board 101.

[037] Power is supplied sequentially: the on / off switch activates the microswitch, which in turn powers the tilt switch 104, which finally powers the board 101 and the components. Petition 870250074791, dated 08 / 22 / 2025, page 13 / 21

Claims

1 / 4 Claims 1. ELECTRONIC DEVICE COUPLED TO THE FUSE HOLDER FOR SIGNALING THE BURDEN OF THE FUSE LINK IN FUSE SWITCHES OF TRANSFORMERS IN DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS AND RECLOSING BASES OF ANY VOLTAGE CLASS is a fuse burnout indicator for use in fuse switches and reclosing bases, characterized by comprising: a) an electronic circuit board (PCB) containing a microcontroller with SMD resistors that limit current to the LED and SMD capacitors that stabilize the voltage and filter noise, LED drive circuits and power management; b) high-intensity signaling LEDs, arranged in such a way as to allow visualization of the luminous signaling from a distance; c) a microswitch for detecting the mechanical activation of the system, resulting from the burnout of the fuse link; d) a tilt switch to assist in activating the circuit, depending on the position of the equipment;e) an on / off switch 112, coupled to the tilt switch 104; f) a rechargeable battery for powering the device, rechargeable via USB; g) an external protective cover, designed to protect the components and optimize the visibility of the signaling; eh) an actuation needle for interaction with the microswitch. Petition 870250084196, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 4 / 8 2 / 4; 2. ELECTRONIC DEVICE COUPLED TO THE FUSE HOLDER FOR SIGNALING THE BURNING OF THE FUSE LINK IN FUSE SWITCHES OF TRANSFORMERS IN DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS AND RECLOSING BASES OF ANY VOLTAGE CLASS according to claim 1, characterized by comprising a fuse link that, when it bursts, the spring returns to its place, releasing the actuating needle that performs the internal closing of the microswitch to power the internal system of the device.

3. ELECTRONIC DEVICE COUPLED TO THE FUSE HOLDER FOR SIGNALING THE BURNING OF THE FUSE LINK IN FUSE SWITCHES OF TRANSFORMERS IN DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS AND RECLOSING BASES OF ANY VOLTAGE CLASS according to claim 1, characterized by comprising wherein the microswitch closes the contact and supplies power to the electronic circuit board (PCB) 101, which contains the microcontrollers (R1, R2, R3) (C1 and C2) and the control circuits.

4. ELECTRONIC DEVICE COUPLED TO THE FUSE HOLDER FOR SIGNALING THE BURNING OF THE FUSE LINK IN FUSE SWITCHES OF DISTRIBUTION NETWORK TRANSFORMERS AND RECLOSING BASES OF ANY VOLTAGE CLASS according to claim 1, characterized in that the electronic circuit board (PCB) includes circuits for protection against battery overload and discharge, to ensure the safety and durability of the device.

5. ELECTRONIC DEVICE COUPLED TO THE FUSE HOLDER FOR SIGNALING THE FUSE LINK BLOWOUT IN FUSE SWITCHES OF DISTRIBUTION NETWORK TRANSFORMERS AND RECLOSING BASES OF ANY VOLTAGE CLASS according to claim 1, characterized by comprising that the microcontroller limits the current to the LED, stabilizes the voltage and filters noise, after the closing of the electrical contact of the microswitch, activates the high-intensity red LEDs, which begin to flash in a predefined pattern, a standard type of flashing designed to be easily recognizable and differentiated from other signals, ensuring that the fuse blowout is promptly identified.

6. ELECTRONIC DEVICE COUPLED TO THE FUSE HOLDER FOR SIGNALING THE BURNING OF THE FUSE LINK IN FUSE SWITCHES OF DISTRIBUTION NETWORK TRANSFORMERS AND RECLOSING BASES OF ANY VOLTAGE CLASS according to claim 1, characterized by comprising that the tilt switch assists in activating the circuit and has a regulator that protects against overload or overcurrent, which ensures that the device only operates when the equipment (fuse switch or reclosing base) is in its normal operating position, preventing false activations due to vibrations or sudden movements.

7. ELECTRONIC DEVICE COUPLED TO THE FUSE HOLDER FOR SIGNALING THE BURNING OF THE FUSE LINK IN FUSE SWITCHES OF TRANSFORMERS OF DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS AND RECLOSING BASES OF ANY VOLTAGE CLASS according to claim 1, characterized by comprising that the on / off switch turns off the tilt switch, which the switch in the “D” position turns off the tilt switch and causes the LEDs to activate when the link burns out, whether the fuse holder is vertical or horizontal, while the on / off switch in the “L” position activates the tilt switch and activates the LEDs 102 only when the link burns out and the fuse holder is vertical (without falling).

8. ELECTRONIC DEVICE COUPLED TO THE FUSE HOLDER FOR SIGNALING THE BURNING OF THE FUSE LINK IN FUSE SWITCHES OF TRANSFORMERS IN DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS AND RECLOSING BASES OF ANY VOLTAGE CLASS according to claim 1, characterized in that the device is designed to operate autonomously, without the need for external power, except for battery recharging.

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