Actuator Cable Shielding for Electrostatic Discharge Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromechanical actuators for closing, shading, or solar protection installations face issues with electrostatic charge discharge, leading to malfunctions and damage to electronic components, particularly due to simple electrical insulation and the risk of overvoltages.
Innovation Solution
The electromechanical actuator incorporates an electrical connection element that connects the housing of the torque support to the shielding of the power supply cable, creating a preferential discharge path for electrostatic charges, thus avoiding damage to electronic components and reducing the risk of overvoltages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the actuator uses simple electrical insulation (protection class 1), then the cost is reduced, but electrostatic charges cannot be properly discharged leading to potential damage to electronic components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a discharge electrode as an intermediary element that facilitates safe electrostatic charge discharge. This electrode is positioned to create a controlled discharge path away from electronic components, acting as a mediator between the electrostatic charge source and the environment, thereby protecting sensitive electronics without requiring complex insulation systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful electrostatic discharge into a beneficial controlled event by positioning the discharge electrode to create a preferential discharge path. The electrostatic charge that would otherwise damage electronic components is redirected to discharge safely through the electrode in a controlled manner, transforming a potential hazard into a protective mechanism
2Ease of manufacture
If the actuator uses reinforced electrical insulation (protection class 2), then the cost is reduced by eliminating earth connection, but electrostatic charges discharge through the printed circuit board causing malfunctions and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge electrode serves as an intermediary that provides a dedicated path for electrostatic charge discharge, preventing charges from using the printed circuit board as a discharge path. This mediator element protects the electronic components by intercepting the electrostatic discharge before it can reach sensitive circuits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the electrostatic discharge function from the electronic control unit by providing a separate discharge electrode. This separation removes the harmful discharge path through the printed circuit board, isolating the electronic components from electrostatic damage while maintaining the benefits of protection class 2 insulation
3Reliability
If the housing is made of electrically conductive material, then electrostatic charges can be discharged, but the electrical insulation is compromised and earth connection is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making only the discharge electrode electrically conductive while keeping the housing non-conductive. This localized conductivity provides the necessary electrostatic discharge path through the electrode without requiring the entire housing to be conductive, thereby avoiding the need for earth connection while maintaining electrostatic protection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the electrostatic discharge function from the housing structure by using a separate discharge electrode. This segmentation allows the housing to remain non-conductive (simplifying insulation) while the discrete electrode provides the conductive path needed for electrostatic charge discharge, eliminating the need for complex earth connection systems
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
This solution effectively discharges electrostatic charges outside the actuator, preventing malfunctions and damage to electronic components, while also simplifying installation and reducing costs by eliminating the need for an electrical ground conductor.
Implementation Method 1
The electrical connection element electrically connects the housing of the torque support to the shielding of the power supply cable... creating a preferential discharge path for electrostatic charges
Data Source
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AI summary
An electromechanical actuator (11) includes a housing (17), a torque support (21), a power supply cable (18), an electric motor, an electronic control unit (15), and an electrostatic discharge device (45). The torque support (21) includes either at least one selection device (41), or at least one display device, or at least one selection device (41) and at least one display device, and at least one housing (44). The housing (44) accommodates at least one selection device (41) or one display device. The power supply cable (18) includes at least one shield (46). The electrostatic discharge device (45) includes at least one electrical linking element (48). In addition, the electrical linking element (48) electrically connects the housing (44) of the torque support (21) to the shielding (46) of the power supply cable (18).