Adapter Module Linkages for Universal Circuit Breaker Tripping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing accessory trip devices for circuit breakers are often specific to particular circuit breakers, making them incompatible with different size breakers, which limits their versatility and requires manufacturers to produce multiple versions for various amperage ratings.
Innovation Solution
An adapter module with a multi-linkage system that boosts the force and stroke output of accessory trip devices, allowing a single device to be compatible with a range of circuit breakers from 40 amps to 1500 amps by being disposed between the accessory trip device and the breaker handle, trip bar, and handle, and includes mechanisms for resetting and tripping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If accessory trip devices are made specific to particular circuit breakers, then they can provide adequate trip force for that breaker size, but they become incompatible with different size breakers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adapter module as an intermediary component between the accessory trip device and the circuit breaker. This adapter module includes linkages that multiply the trip force from the accessory device to achieve adequate tripping force for larger breakers while maintaining compatibility across different breaker sizes through a standardized interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter module changes the mechanical parameters (force multiplication ratio, stroke length) based on the breaker size it is installed in. The linkage system provides different mechanical advantage ratios to match the requirements of different breaker sizes, allowing a single accessory trip device to work across multiple breaker configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If accessory trip devices are made universal for different breaker sizes, then compatibility improves, but trip force becomes insufficient for larger breakers
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter module serves as a force-amplifying intermediary that receives the limited trip force from a universal accessory trip device and multiplies it through a linkage system to deliver adequate tripping force for various breaker sizes, including larger breakers that require higher trip forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter module's linkage system dynamically adjusts the force transmission based on the mechanical requirements of the connected breaker. The linkages are designed to provide appropriate force multiplication ratios that match the trip requirements of different breaker sizes while maintaining a universal interface.
3Force
If multiple versions of accessory trip devices are produced for different breaker sizes, then adequate trip force is achieved for each size, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the accessory trip device universal by designing it to work with multiple breaker sizes through a standardized interface. The single version of the accessory trip device can be used across different breaker sizes when combined with the appropriate adapter module, eliminating the need to manufacture multiple specialized versions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into two independent components: a universal accessory trip device and a size-specific adapter module. This segmentation allows the trip device itself to remain simple and universal, while the adapter module absorbs the complexity of adapting to different breaker sizes, reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
4Force
If adapter module with linkages is added, then trip force is boosted for larger breakers, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter module is a self-contained intermediary component that handles all force multiplication requirements. By isolating the mechanical complexity within the adapter module rather than the accessory trip device itself, the system achieves force boosting capability while keeping the main trip device simple and universal.
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
Enables a single accessory trip device to function across different size circuit breakers, reducing manufacturing costs and providing users with a customizable solution by increasing trip force and stroke length with reduced operational force requirements.
Implementation Method 1
an adapter module... including linkages configured to boost a force output by the accessory trip device
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Systems, apparatus, and methods for accessory tripping and resetting of circuit breakers are disclosed. Embodiments of the invention include a breaker handle; a breaker trip bar; an accessory trip device; an accessory pocket configured to receive the accessory trip device; and an adapter module disposed within the accessory pocket between the accessory trip device and the breaker handle, and coupled to the breaker handle, the breaker trip bar, and the accessory trip device, the adapter module including linkages configured to boost a force output by the accessory trip device. Numerous additional features and aspects are disclosed.