Temperature-sensing protected power cord and air conditioner
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202310647191.X
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-06-01
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-28
- Estimated Expiration
- 2043-06-01
AI Technical Summary
这些方案的弊端在于,随着电源线使用时间的延长,热敏电阻、PTC电阻等感温材料的阻值会发生变化,导致电源线上的温度异常升高时感温材料的阻值采样测试异常,测温不准,故急需针对这种情况进行解决
[0022] 1. Compared to existing temperature-sensing materials such as thermistors and PTC resistors, whose resistance changes over time, leading to inaccurate temperature measurements, the temperature-sensing material of this invention uses a vaporizing element, such as a thermistor pellet. When the temperature on the core rises to the set temperature, the vaporizing element gradually melts until it is completely vaporized. This process does not require resistance testing to convert the temperature, and there is no need to worry about the resistance changing due to material aging. The continuity detection mechanism only needs to detect the continuity of the conductive circuit to determine whether the temperature of the power line has risen abnormally, thus making the detection more accurate.
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Figure CN116631691B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of power cord technology, and in particular to a power cord and air conditioner with temperature-sensitive protection. Background Technology
[0002] After years of statistical analysis of after-sales faults, the main causes of power cord damage are local pressure during installation or use, rodents gnawing through the insulation layer, or insulation quality problems caused by the manufacturing process itself. The final manifestation of power cord failure is local heating, which damages the insulation layer at that point, causing the power cord to short-circuit and spark.
[0003] Currently, temperature sensing materials such as thermistors and PTC resistors are commonly used to detect the temperature of power cords. As the temperature on the power cord changes, the resistance of the sensing material changes accordingly. By measuring the resistance of the sensing material and then converting it into temperature, the temperature on the power cord can be monitored. The drawback of these solutions is that as the power cord is used over time, the resistance of the thermistors and PTC resistors changes, leading to abnormal resistance sampling and inaccurate temperature measurements when the power cord temperature rises abnormally. Therefore, there is an urgent need to address this issue. Summary of the Invention
[0004] In view of this, the present invention provides a power cord with temperature-sensing protection. The main technical problem to be solved is: how to improve the detection accuracy of abnormal temperature rise of the power cord.
[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention mainly provides the following technical solutions:
[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a temperature-sensitive power cord, which includes a wire core, a temperature sensing device, a conductive circuit, and a continuity detection mechanism. The temperature sensing device includes a vaporizing element located at the wire core, which vaporizes when the temperature on the wire core reaches a set value, thereby disconnecting the conductive circuit. The continuity detection mechanism is used to detect the continuity of the conductive circuit.
[0007] In some embodiments, the temperature sensing device further includes a first conductive element, a second conductive element, and an elastic element. The temperature sensing device is electrically connected between two conductive nodes of the conductive circuit through the first conductive element and the second conductive element, so as to be connected in series on the conductive circuit.
[0008] The first conductive element is movable, and the temperature sensing device has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the vaporizing element is solid and blocks the first conductive element, causing the first conductive element to contact the second conductive element to conduct electricity between the two conductive nodes. In the second state, the vaporizing element vaporizes, and the elastic element pushes the first conductive element and the second conductive element to separate, thereby disconnecting the electrical connection between the two conductive nodes.
[0009] In some embodiments, the temperature sensing device further includes a conductive housing and an insulating end cap, the insulating end cap being used to cover the conductive housing and forming a receiving cavity between the two, wherein the vaporizing element, the first conductive element, and the elastic element are all disposed within the receiving cavity;
[0010] The first conductive element slides into the side wall of the conductive housing and remains electrically connected to the conductive housing. The first conductive element is electrically connected to one of the two conductive nodes through the conductive housing. The second conductive element passes through the insulating end cap and remains relatively fixed to the insulating end cap. The second conductive element contacts the first conductive element through one end that extends into the accommodating cavity, and the second conductive element is electrically connected to the other of the two conductive nodes through its other end.
[0011] In some embodiments, the conductive housing is a heat-conducting component, and the vaporization component contacts the wire core through the conductive housing.
[0012] In some embodiments, the conductive circuit has a conductive wire connected in series within the circuit, the conductive wire extending along the length of the wire core, and the temperature sensing device is disposed on the conductive wire so as to be connected in series within the conductive circuit via the conductive wire.
[0013] In some embodiments, the conductive wire is wound around the wire core.
[0014] In some embodiments, the temperature-sensitive power cord further includes an insulating sheath, which is fitted over the wire core and the conductive wire is located inside the insulating sheath.
[0015] In some embodiments, the temperature-sensitive power cord further includes a disconnection mechanism for disconnecting the live wire within the core when the conductive circuit is broken.
[0016] In some embodiments, the disconnecting mechanism includes a controller and a disconnecting element connected in series with the live wire of the power supply line; the disconnecting mechanism is used to control the disconnecting element through the controller when the conductive circuit is broken, so as to disconnect the live wire of the power supply line inside the core.
[0017] In some embodiments, the continuity detection mechanism is used to generate a disconnection signal when a break in the conductive circuit is detected, and the controller controls the disconnecting element to disconnect based on the disconnection signal;
[0018] And / or, the disconnecting element is a relay or a trip unit.
[0019] In some embodiments, the power cord has a power cord plug connected to the wire core, and both the disconnection mechanism and the continuity detection mechanism are disposed within the power cord plug.
[0020] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention also provide an air conditioner that may include the temperature-sensitive power cord described above.
[0021] By employing the above technical solution, the temperature-sensitive power cord of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects:
[0022] 1. Compared to existing temperature-sensing materials such as thermistors and PTC resistors, whose resistance changes over time, leading to inaccurate temperature measurements, the temperature-sensing material of this invention uses a vaporizing element, such as a thermistor pellet. When the temperature on the core rises to the set temperature, the vaporizing element gradually melts until it is completely vaporized. This process does not require resistance testing to convert the temperature, and there is no need to worry about the resistance changing due to material aging. The continuity detection mechanism only needs to detect the continuity of the conductive circuit to determine whether the temperature of the power line has risen abnormally, thus making the detection more accurate.
[0023] 2. When the temperature on the wire core rises abnormally, the solid vaporization component vaporizes and melts, disconnecting the temperature sensing device and breaking the conductive circuit. When the continuity detection mechanism detects the break in the conductive circuit, it generates a disconnection signal. The controller, such as a control board, installed inside the power cord plug receives the disconnection signal and controls the disconnection component, such as a relay or trip unit, to disconnect the power supply in a timely manner, thus protecting the power cord.
[0024] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution of the present invention. In order to better understand the technical means of the present invention and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, the preferred embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description
[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.
[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a temperature-sensitive power cord provided in an embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the temperature sensing device connected between two conductive nodes in the conductive circuit when the vaporized component is in a solid state.
[0028] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure where the temperature sensing device after the vaporization of the vaporizing component is connected between two conductive nodes in the conductive circuit.
[0029] Figure 4 This is a flow control diagram that controls the disconnection of the live wire when the conductivity is broken.
[0030] Reference numerals: 1. Power cord plug; 2. Core wire; 3. Conductive wire; 4. Temperature sensing device; 5. Insulating sheath; 6. Controller; 7. Conductive circuit; 8. Conductive lead; 9. Second conductive element; 10. Conductive housing; 11. Vaporizing element; 12. First conductive element; 13. Elastic element; 14. Insulating end cap; 15. Continuity detection mechanism; 16. Disconnection element; 21. Power cord ground wire; 22. Power cord neutral wire; 23. Power cord live wire; 31. First conductive node; 32. Second conductive node; 141. Receptacle cavity. Detailed Implementation
[0031] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0032] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.
[0033] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. If the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.
[0034] After years of statistical analysis of after-sales faults, the main causes of power cord damage are localized pressure during installation or use, rodent gnawing through the insulation layer, or insulation quality issues arising from the manufacturing process itself. The ultimate manifestation of power cord failure is localized overheating, which damages the insulation layer at that point, leading to a short circuit and arcing. Based on these causes, a temperature sensing device can be added to the power cord. This device can accurately detect temperature changes at various points along the cord, providing so-called "insulation layer protection." By constantly monitoring the insulation temperature of the entire power cord, it can immediately cut off the power supply upon detecting any abnormal temperature, preventing serious accidents.
[0035] Currently, temperature sensing materials such as thermistors and PTC resistors are commonly used to detect the temperature of power cords. As the temperature on the power cord changes, the resistance of the sensing material changes accordingly. By measuring the resistance of the sensing material and then converting it into temperature, the temperature on the power cord can be monitored. The drawback of these methods is that as the power cord is used over time, the resistance of the thermistors and PTC resistors changes, leading to abnormal resistance sampling and inaccurate temperature measurements when the temperature on the power cord rises abnormally.
[0036] In view of this, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a power cord with temperature-sensitive protection to improve the accuracy of detecting abnormal temperature rises in the power cord.
[0037] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a temperature-sensitive power cord, which includes a core 2, a temperature sensing device 4, a conductive circuit 7, and a continuity detection mechanism 15. The core 2 can be composed of multiple conductors. In a specific application example, the core 2 includes a power cord ground wire 21, a power cord live wire 23, and a power cord neutral wire 22. The outer surfaces of each of the power cord ground wire 21, power cord live wire 23, and power cord neutral wire 22 are covered with an insulating layer. The structures of the power cord ground wire 21, power cord live wire 23, and power cord neutral wire 22 are all prior art and will not be described in detail here.
[0038] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the aforementioned temperature sensing device 4 includes a vaporizing element 11. The vaporizing element 11 is solid at room temperature, and when the temperature rises to a set temperature, the vaporizing element 11 gradually melts until it is completely vaporized. The vaporizing element 11 can be a heat-sensitive pellet or a similar substance. The vaporizing element 11 can be a commercially available component, and its specific structure is prior art, which will not be described in detail here.
[0039] The aforementioned vaporizing element 11 is located at the wire core 2 to sense the temperature on the wire core 2 in real time. The vaporizing element 11 should be placed as close as possible to the wire core 2. If possible, the vaporizing element 11 should be placed in close contact with the wire core 2 so that the heat on the wire core 2 can be quickly transferred to the vaporizing element 11, thereby improving the sensing effect of the vaporizing element 11 on the temperature on the wire core 2.
[0040] The aforementioned vaporizing element 11 vaporizes when the temperature on the wire core 2 reaches a set value, thus disconnecting the conductive circuit 7. The continuity detection mechanism 15 detects the continuity of the conductive circuit 7. Here, the "set value" refers to the vaporization temperature of the vaporizing element 11, at which it vaporizes. Specifically, when the power cord is in a non-conductive, non-working state, or in a conductive, normally working state, the temperature on the wire core 2 is lower than the set value, and the vaporizing element 11 is solid. When the power cord is damaged, causing a short circuit and arcing, the temperature on the wire core 2 rises sharply, exceeding the set value. Because the vaporizing element 11 is located close to the wire core 2, the high temperature on the wire core 2 is transferred to the vaporizing element 11, causing it to gradually melt until it completely vaporizes. After the vaporizing element 11 vaporizes, it disconnects the conductive circuit 7.
[0041] The continuity detection mechanism 15 continuously monitors the conductive circuit 7. When the continuity detection mechanism 15 detects that the conductive circuit 7 is disconnected, it indicates that the temperature on the power line has risen abnormally and has been damaged. At this time, the continuity detection mechanism 15 can send a signal to alarm or cut off the power line to protect the power line.
[0042] Compared to existing temperature-sensing materials such as thermistors and PTC resistors, whose resistance changes over time, leading to inaccurate temperature measurements, the temperature-sensing material of this invention uses a vaporizing element 11, such as a thermistor pellet. When the temperature on the core 2 rises to the set temperature, the vaporizing element 11 gradually melts until it is completely vaporized. This process does not require resistance testing to convert the temperature, thus eliminating the need to connect to an external resistance testing device. Furthermore, there is no need to worry about the resistance changing due to material aging. The continuity detection mechanism 15 only needs to detect the continuity of the conductive circuit 7 to determine whether the temperature of the power line has risen abnormally, thereby making the detection more accurate.
[0043] In order to achieve the function of the aforementioned temperature sensing device 4, the conductive circuit 7 can be disconnected when the vaporizing element 11 vaporizes, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the temperature sensing device 4 may include a first conductive element 12, a second conductive element 9, and an elastic element 13. The elastic element 13 may be a spring or flexible plastic, etc. The temperature sensing device 4 is electrically connected between two conductive nodes of the conductive circuit 7 through the first conductive element 12 and the second conductive element 9, so as to be connected in series on the conductive circuit 7. The two conductive nodes may be two terminals or plugs on the conductive circuit 7, etc. The two conductive nodes may be the first conductive node 31 and the second conductive node 32, which together form a conductive node group. The temperature sensing device 4 is electrically connected to the first conductive node 31 through the first conductive element 12, and the temperature sensing device 4 is also electrically connected to the second conductive node 32 through the second conductive element 9. Thus, the temperature sensing device 4 can be connected in series on the conductive circuit 7 through its connection with the first conductive node 31 and the second conductive node 32.
[0044] The aforementioned first conductive element 12 is movable, and the temperature sensing device 4 has a first state and a second state. In the first state, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the vaporizing element 11 is in a solid state. The vaporizing element 11 blocks the first conductive element 12, causing the first conductive element 12 to contact the second conductive element 9, thus connecting the two conductive nodes. At this time, the first conductive node 31, the first conductive element 12, the second conductive element 9, and the second conductive node 32 are sequentially connected and conductive. In the second state, as... Figure 3 As shown, the vaporizing component 11 vaporizes, and the elastic component 13 pushes the first conductive component 12 and the second conductive component 9 to separate, thereby disconnecting the electrical connection between the two conductive nodes.
[0045] In the above example, the first conductive element 12 functions as a movable switch. In the first state, the solid vaporizing element 11 stops the first conductive element 12 in a position where it contacts and conducts electricity with the second conductive element 9. In the second state, the elastic element 13 pushes the first conductive element 12 away from the second conductive element 9. The elastic element 13, in conjunction with the vaporizing element 11, enables the first conductive element 12 and the second conductive element 9 to come into contact or automatically separate, thus achieving automatic control of the on / off state of the conductive circuit 7.
[0046] Since the first conductive element 12 and the second conductive element 9 are respectively connected to two conductive nodes, such as Figure 2 As shown, when the first conductive element 12 contacts the second conductive element 9, it can connect the first conductive node 31 and the second conductive node 32, thus completing the conductive circuit 7. Figure 3 As shown, when the first conductive element 12 is separated from the second conductive element 9, the electrical connection between the first conductive node 31 and the second conductive node 32 can be broken, thereby disconnecting the conductive circuit 7.
[0047] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the aforementioned temperature sensing device 4 may further include a conductive housing 10 and an insulating end cap 14. The insulating end cap 14 is used to cover the conductive housing 10, forming a receiving cavity 141 between the two. The insulating end cap 14 can be an injection-molded encapsulation, etc. In a specific application example, the conductive housing 10 can be barrel-shaped, hollow inside, and open at one end. The insulating end cap 14 covers the port of the conductive housing 10. The insulating end cap 14 can be fastened or screwed onto the conductive housing 10.
[0048] The vaporizing element 11, the first conductive element 12, and the elastic element 13 are all disposed within the accommodating cavity 141. This allows for full utilization of the space within the accommodating cavity 141, resulting in a more compact overall structure for the temperature sensing device 4. Specifically, the vaporizing element 11 and the first conductive element 12 can both be located within the conductive housing 10. The inner side of the insulating end cap 14 may have a groove, and the elastic element 13 is located within this groove. One end of the elastic element 13 abuts against the bottom surface of the groove, and the other end abuts against the side of the first conductive element 12 opposite to the vaporizing element 11. The vaporizing element 11 can be located on the side of the first conductive element 12 opposite to the elastic element 13.
[0049] The aforementioned first conductive element 12 slides against the side wall of the conductive housing 10, and the first conductive element 12 maintains an electrical connection with the conductive housing 10. Specifically, as... Figure 2 and 3 As shown, the first conductive element 12 maintains contact with the conductive housing 10, enabling the first conductive element 12 to maintain an electrical connection with the conductive housing 10. The first conductive element 12 is electrically connected to one of the two conductive nodes through the conductive housing 10; specifically, the first conductive element 12 is electrically connected to the first conductive node 31 through the conductive housing 10. The conductive housing 10 can be a metal shell, etc., and conductive leads 8 can be electrically connected to the conductive housing 10. The conductive leads 8 can be soldered to the conductive housing 10. The conductive housing 10 is electrically connected to the first conductive node 31 through the conductive leads 8, for example, by soldering or plugging.
[0050] like Figure 2 and 3As shown, the aforementioned second conductive element 9 is used to pass through the insulating end cap 14, and the second conductive element 9 and the insulating end cap 14 remain relatively fixed. The second conductive element 9 can be fastened to the insulating end cap 14. Specifically, the second conductive element 9 contacts the first conductive element 12 through one end extending into the receiving cavity 141, and the second conductive element 9 is electrically connected to the other of the two conductive nodes through its other end. Specifically, the second conductive element 9 is electrically connected to the aforementioned second conductive node 32 through its other end. The second conductive element 9 can be a conductive lead 8, etc. To improve the contact stability between the second conductive element 9 and the first conductive element 12, the second conductive element 9 can also be a metal rod, etc. When the elastic element 13 is a compression spring, the end of the second conductive element 9 extending into the receiving cavity 141 can extend into the inner hole of the compression spring.
[0051] In the above example, the first conductive element 12 can be a conductive baffle, such as a metal plate. The first conductive element 12 can have a shape consistent with the inner cavity of the conductive housing 10. When the vaporizing element 11 vaporizes, the elastic element 13 can push the first conductive element 12 to move along the inner wall of the conductive housing 10. The inner cavity of the conductive housing 10 has the effect of guiding and limiting the first conductive element 12. Among them, the first conductive element 12 is a movable element, and the second conductive element 9 is a fixed element. The vaporizing element 11 cooperates with the elastic element 13 to position the first conductive element 12 in different positions, allowing the first conductive element 12 to contact or separate from the second conductive element 9, thereby achieving the purpose of connecting or disconnecting the conductive circuit 7.
[0052] The cavity 141 formed between the conductive housing 10 and the insulating end cap 14 can be a sealed cavity. The gas formed after the vaporizing component 11 is vaporized can be sealed in the cavity 141. Thus, there is no need to set up an additional exhaust structure for exhaust, which has the advantages of simplifying the structure and reducing costs.
[0053] The aforementioned conductive housing 10 is a heat-conducting component. Preferably, the conductive housing 10 can be a metal component, which can conduct both electricity and heat. The vaporizing component 11 is filled inside the conductive housing 10, and the vaporizing component 11 is in close contact with the inner wall of the conductive housing 10. The vaporizing component 11 can contact the wire core 2 through the conductive housing 10 to improve the heat transfer efficiency on the wire core 2, so that the heat on the wire core 2 can be quickly transferred to the vaporizing component 11, thereby improving the vaporizing component 11's ability to sense high temperatures on the wire core 2.
[0054] In order to more accurately and timely detect abnormal high temperatures on core 2, such as Figure 1 As shown, the number of the aforementioned temperature sensing devices 4 can be two or more, and they are arranged sequentially at intervals along the length of the wire core 2. The number of the aforementioned conductive node groups is equal to the number of temperature sensing devices 4, and they correspond one-to-one.
[0055] Preferably, each temperature sensing device 4 can be connected in series on the same conductive wire within the conductive circuit 7. In a specific application example, the number of temperature sensing devices 4 is 7, and the distance between any two adjacent temperature sensing devices 4 is 0.1 meters.
[0056] like Figure 1 As shown, the aforementioned conductive circuit 7 has a conductive wire 3 connected in series within the circuit. The conductive wire 3 extends along the length of the core 2, and the aforementioned temperature sensing device 4 is disposed on the conductive wire 3, so as to be connected in series within the conductive circuit 7 via the conductive wire 3. The conductive wire 3 can be arranged side-by-side with the core 2. Preferably, the conductive wire 3 can be wound around the core 2, allowing the temperature sensing device 4 on it to come into close contact with the core 2. This facilitates the close proximity of the vaporizing element 11 to the core 2, enabling more efficient heat transfer from the core 2 to the vaporizing element 11, allowing the vaporizing element 11 to promptly detect any abnormal temperature rise on the core 2.
[0057] like Figure 1 As shown, the aforementioned temperature-sensitive power cord may further include an insulating sheath 5, which is fitted onto the core 2, with the aforementioned conductive wire 3 located inside the insulating sheath 5. The insulating sheath 5 provides housing protection for the power cord, and it can compress the temperature-sensing device 4 on the conductive wire 3 and the core 2, ensuring a tight fit between the temperature-sensing device 4 and the core 2. This facilitates more efficient heat transfer from the core 2 to the vaporization element 11 of the temperature-sensing device 4, allowing the vaporization element 11 to promptly detect any abnormal temperature rise on the core 2.
[0058] It should be noted here that: (as...) Figure 1 As shown, the aforementioned wire core 2 may include a live wire 23, a neutral wire 22, and a ground wire 21. The insulating sheath 5 encases the live wire 23, the neutral wire 22, the ground wire 21, and the conductive wire 3 inside. The structures of the live wire 23, the neutral wire 22, and the ground wire 21 are all existing technologies, and each of the live wire 23, the neutral wire 22, and the ground wire 21 has its own individual insulating layer on its outer side. Similarly, the conductive wire 3 also has an insulating layer on its outer side. The insulating sheath 5 encases the live wire 23, the neutral wire 22, the ground wire 21, and the conductive wire 3, all of which have insulating layers, together inside.
[0059] The aforementioned heat-sensitive power cord may also include a disconnection mechanism, which is used to disconnect the live wire 23 of the power cord 2 inside the core 2 when the conductive circuit 7 is disconnected, so as to cut off the power supply and achieve the effect of protecting the power cord.
[0060] To achieve the aforementioned disconnection mechanism's function, allowing it to disconnect the live wire 23 within the conductor 2 when the conductive circuit 7 is broken, as follows: Figure 4As shown, the aforementioned disconnection mechanism may include a controller 6 and a disconnecting element 16, with the disconnecting element 16 connected in series with the live wire 23 of the power supply. The disconnection mechanism is used to control the disconnecting element 16 via the controller 6 when the conductive circuit 7 is disconnected, causing the disconnecting element 16 to disconnect the live wire 23 of the power supply within the conductor 2. The controller 6 may be a control board, etc., and the disconnecting element 16 may be a relay or a trip unit, etc.
[0061] The aforementioned continuity detection mechanism 15 generates a disconnection signal when it detects a break in the conductive circuit 7. The controller 6 then controls the disconnecting element 16 to disconnect based on this disconnection signal. This allows for automatic disconnection of the live wire 23 when the temperature on the power cord rises abnormally, resulting in better protection of the power cord.
[0062] It should be noted that the aforementioned continuity detection mechanism 15 can be a continuity detection circuit integrated on the control board. Continuity detection circuits are a mature and common technology, and will not be described in detail here.
[0063] like Figure 1 As shown, the aforementioned power cord has a power cord plug 1 connected to the wire core 2. The aforementioned disconnection mechanism and continuity detection mechanism 15 can both be installed inside the power cord plug 1, so that the power cord plug 1 can provide housing protection for the disconnection mechanism and continuity detection mechanism 15.
[0064] Embodiments of the present invention also propose an air conditioner that may include any of the above-mentioned temperature-sensitive and protected power cords. Because the air conditioner uses the aforementioned power cord, unlike existing temperature-sensing materials such as thermistors and PTC resistors whose resistance changes over time leading to inaccurate temperature measurements, the temperature-sensing material of the present invention uses a vaporization element 11, such as a thermistor pellet. When the temperature on the core 2 rises to a set temperature, the vaporization element 11 gradually melts until it is completely vaporized. This process does not require resistance testing to convert the temperature, and there is no need to worry about material aging causing resistance changes. The continuity detection mechanism 15 only needs to detect the continuity of the conductive circuit 7 to determine whether the temperature of the power cord has abnormally increased, thus making the detection more accurate.
[0065] For ease of understanding, the overall structure of the present invention will be described below, and its working principle will be explained.
[0066] This invention relates to the design of a temperature-sensitive power cord that can be used in air conditioners. The temperature-sensitive power cord includes a core 2, a temperature-sensing device 4, and a conductive circuit 7. The core 2 has a live wire 23, a neutral wire 22, and a ground wire 21. The conductive circuit 7 has a conductive wire 3 connected in series within the circuit. The temperature-sensing device 4 is connected in series with the conductive wire 3. The conductive wire 3 extends along the length of the core 2. There are two or more temperature-sensing devices 4, arranged alternately on the conductive wire 3. The power cord also includes an insulating sheath 5, within which the live wire 23, neutral wire 22, ground wire 21, and conductive wire 3 are all encased. The power cord also includes a power cord plug 1, to which the aforementioned core 2 is connected. The power cord plug 1 contains a controller 6, which can be a control board or similar device. The conductive wire 3 can be connected to the control board to form the conductive circuit 7. The power cord plug 1 also includes a continuity detection mechanism 15, which can be a continuity detection circuit integrated on the control board. The continuity detection mechanism 15 can detect the continuity of the conductive circuit 7.
[0067] The aforementioned temperature sensing device 4 includes a vaporizing element 11, a first conductive element 12, a second conductive element 9, a conductive housing 10, a conductive lead 8, an elastic element 13, and an insulating end cap 14. The first conductive element 12 can be a conductive baffle located inside the conductive housing 10. The space between the conductive baffle and the bottom of the conductive housing 10 is filled with the solid vaporizing element 11, which can be a heat-sensitive pellet, etc. The first conductive element 12 is in contact with the conductive housing 10 to maintain an electrical connection. The conductive lead 8 is disposed on the conductive housing 10, and the conductive baffle is electrically connected to the conductive lead 8 through the conductive housing 10. The conductive housing 10 is covered with an insulating end cap 14. The second conductive element 9 can be the conductive lead 8 and is fixed to the insulating end cap 14. The elastic element 13 is disposed inside the insulating end cap 14. At room temperature, the vaporizing element 11 is solid. It stops and limits the first conductive element 12, ensuring close contact between the first and second conductive parts. At this time, the conductive lead 8, conductive housing 10, first conductive element 12, and second conductive element 9 form a conductive path, making the conductive circuit 7 conductive. The vaporizing element 11, through the conductive housing 10, is in close contact with the wire core 2, facilitating heat transfer from the wire core 2 to the vaporizing element 11. Once the power line temperature abnormally rises to the set temperature, the vaporizing element 11 completely vaporizes. Under the action of the elastic element 13, the first conductive element 12 moves back to the space where the vaporizing element 11 was originally located, thus separating the first conductive element 12 from the second conductive element 9, disconnecting the conductive wire 3, and breaking the conductive circuit 7. When the continuity detection mechanism 15 detects the break in the conductive circuit 7, it generates a disconnection signal. The control board controls the disconnecting element 16 to operate based on this disconnection signal, cutting off the live wire 23 of the power line, thereby protecting the power line. The disconnecting element 16 can be a relay or a trip unit, etc.
[0068] The power cord of this invention employs a temperature sensing device 4 with a built-in solid vaporization element 11, such as a thermosensitive pellet, to monitor the temperature at various points along the power cord in real time. When the temperature on the core 2 rises abnormally, the solid thermosensitive pellet vaporizes and melts, disconnecting the temperature sensing device 4 and thus breaking the conductive circuit 7. When the continuity detection mechanism 15 detects the break in the conductive circuit 7, it generates a disconnection signal. The controller 6, such as a control board, located inside the power cord plug 1 receives the disconnection signal and controls the disconnection element 16, such as a relay or trip unit, to disconnect, promptly cutting off the power supply and protecting the power cord.
[0069] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the present invention's specification and drawings under the inventive concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A power cord with temperature-sensitive protection, characterized in that, It includes a wire core (2), a temperature sensing device (4), a conductive circuit (7), and a continuity detection mechanism (15). The temperature sensing device (4) includes a vaporizing element (11), which is located at the core (2) so that vaporization occurs when the temperature on the core (2) reaches a set value, thereby disconnecting the conductive circuit (7). The continuity detection mechanism (15) is used to detect the continuity of the conductive circuit (7); The temperature sensing device (4) further includes a first conductive element (12), a second conductive element (9) and an elastic element (13). The temperature sensing device (4) is electrically connected between two conductive nodes of the conductive circuit (7) through the first conductive element (12) and the second conductive element (9) to be connected in series on the conductive circuit (7). The first conductive element (12) is movable, and the temperature sensing device (4) has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the vaporizing element (11) is solid and blocks the first conductive element (12), so that the first conductive element (12) contacts the second conductive element (9) to conduct electricity between the two conductive nodes. In the second state, the vaporizing element (11) vaporizes, and the elastic element (13) pushes the first conductive element (12) and the second conductive element (9) to separate, so as to disconnect the electrical connection between the two conductive nodes.
2. The temperature-sensitive power cord as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature sensing device (4) further includes a conductive housing (10) and an insulating end cap (14). The insulating end cap (14) is used to cover the conductive housing (10) and form a receiving cavity (141) between the two. The vaporizing element (11), the first conductive element (12) and the elastic element (13) are all disposed in the receiving cavity (141). Wherein, the first conductive element (12) slides with the side wall of the conductive housing (10), and the first conductive element (12) and the conductive housing (10) are electrically connected; the first conductive element (12) is electrically connected to one of the two conductive nodes through the conductive housing (10); the second conductive element (9) is used to pass through the insulating end cap (14), and the second conductive element (9) and the insulating end cap (14) are relatively fixed; wherein, the second conductive element (9) contacts the first conductive element (12) through one end of its extension into the accommodating cavity (141), and the second conductive element (9) is electrically connected to the other of the two conductive nodes through its other end.
3. The temperature-sensitive power cord as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The conductive housing (10) is a heat-conducting component, and the vaporizing component (11) contacts the wire core (2) through the conductive housing (10).
4. The temperature-sensitive power cord as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The conductive circuit (7) has a conductive wire (3) connected in series in the circuit. The conductive wire (3) extends along the length direction of the wire core (2). The temperature sensing device (4) is disposed on the conductive wire (3) and is connected in series in the conductive circuit (7) through the conductive wire (3).
5. The temperature-sensitive power cord as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The conductive wire (3) is wound around the core (2).
6. The temperature-sensitive power cord as described in claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes an insulating sheath (5), which is fitted on the wire core (2), and the conductive wire (3) is located inside the insulating sheath (5).
7. The temperature-sensitive power cord as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, 5, and 6, characterized in that, It also includes a disconnection mechanism for disconnecting the live wire (23) in the core (2) when the conductive circuit (7) is disconnected.
8. The temperature-sensitive power cord as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The disconnection mechanism includes a controller (6) and a disconnecting element (16), wherein the disconnecting element (16) is connected in series with the live wire (23) of the power line; the disconnection mechanism is used to control the disconnecting element (16) through the controller (6) when the conductive circuit (7) is disconnected, so as to disconnect the live wire (23) of the power line in the core (2).
9. The temperature-sensitive power cord as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The continuity detection mechanism (15) is used to generate a disconnection signal when a disconnection of the conductive circuit (7) is detected, and the controller (6) controls the disconnection component (16) to disconnect according to the disconnection signal; And / or, the disconnecting element (16) is a relay or trip unit.
10. The temperature-sensitive power cord as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The power cord has a power cord plug (1) connected to the wire core (2), and the disconnection mechanism and the continuity detection mechanism (15) are both located inside the power cord plug (1).
11. An air conditioner, characterized in that, Includes the temperature-sensitive power cord as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.
Citation Information
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