Unitary Ablative Plasma Device Assembly for Arc Mitigation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing plasma generation devices for arc mitigation systems are prone to non-uniform assembly, leading to inconsistent plasma generation due to manual assembly of ablative and conductive layers, which can result in inadequate arc formation and device failure, caused by misalignment, uneven bonding, and degradation of materials.

Innovation Solution

A plasma generation device assembly with a body unitarily formed from ablative material, eliminating the need for multiple layers and manual assembly, and featuring a molded design with integrated terminals and coupling members for secure and uniform plasma emission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual assembly of plasma generation devices is used, then flexibility in assembly is maintained, but assembly precision and consistency deteriorate due to human error and skill variation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly flexibilityVSAvoidassembly consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The plasma generation device is divided into modular components (electrode assemblies, ablative layers, housing) that can be pre-manufactured with precise tolerances and then easily assembled. This segmentation allows automated or semi-automated assembly processes while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical assembly operations are replaced with automated assembly systems including robotic manipulators, precision positioning systems, and automated bonding equipment. This substitution eliminates human error while maintaining assembly flexibility through programmable control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If multiple layers of ablative and conductive material are used, then plasma generation capability is improved, but assembly complexity and bonding reliability worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplasma generation capabilityVSAvoidassembly complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple ablative and conductive layers are combined into a single integrated structure using co-molding or layered molding techniques. This merging maintains the functional benefits of multiple materials while eliminating the assembly complexity and bonding issues associated with separate layers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Composite materials combining ablative and conductive properties are used to replace multiple separate layers. This approach maintains plasma generation capability while significantly reducing assembly complexity and eliminating inter-layer bonding requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Adaptability or versatility

If ablative layers are cut from sheets, then material flexibility is maintained, but surface uniformity and edge consistency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvematerial flexibilityVSAvoidsurface uniformity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Ablative layers are pre-formed with precise surfaces and edges through injection molding or precision cutting before assembly. This preliminary action ensures surface uniformity and edge consistency are built-in rather than achieved through post-processing or manual adjustment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The manufacturing method of ablative layers transitions from sheet cutting to mold-based formation, changing the key parameter of surface quality from variable to controlled. This parameter change ensures consistent surface uniformity and edge precision while maintaining material flexibility through mold design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Ensures consistent and reliable generation of ablative plasma, reducing the risk of device failure and improving arc formation efficiency by eliminating manual assembly issues and ensuring uniform plasma emission.

Implementation Method 1

The plasma generation device emits ablative plasma when the plasma generation device is activated

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAblation: Ablation

Implementation Method 2

The ablative plasma reduces or breaks a dielectric strength of the medium, or insulation, between the electrodes, and the medium breaks down such that an electrical arc is formed between the electrodes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectIonization: Ionisation

Implementation Method 3

The electrical arc diverts energy from the arc flash location until the source of the energy is abated or disconnected

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS9468084B2Plasma generation device assembly, arc mitigation device, and method of assembling a plasma generation device assembly

Publication Date: 2016.10.11 ABB SPA

AI summary

A plasma generation device assembly includes a base including a top surface. The plasma generation device assembly also includes a plasma generation device and a plurality of coupling members. The plasma generation device includes a body unitarily formed from an ablative material and a plurality of plasma generation device terminals coupled to the body. The plasma generation device is positioned on the top surface and is configured to emit ablative plasma when the plasma generation device is activated. The plurality of coupling members is configured to couple the plasma generation device to the top surface.