Annular Stationary Contact Switch Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric switches are bulky and complex, requiring additional components for complete switching functionality and lacking a simplified, cost-effective design.
Innovation Solution
A switch design featuring a gastight casing filled with insulating gas and a stationary contact that surrounds the conductor bar, with a ring-shaped or sector-shaped annular contact zone and spring contacts for enhanced contact reliability, allowing the switch contact to move between open, grounding, and closed positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional switch designs with multiple conductor bars and switch elements are used, then switching functionality is achieved, but the device becomes bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple switching functions into a single integrated structure where the annular stationary contact serves as both the contact surface and the structural framework. The movable contact element integrates both contact and grounding functions, eliminating the need for separate grounding switches and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining complete switching functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The annular stationary contact structure serves multiple purposes: it provides the electrical contact surface, defines the grounding path, and structurally supports the movable contact element. The movable contact element similarly serves both as a contact maker and a grounding switch, achieving multi-functionality that reduces the number of components needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional commutation rods and insulating tubes are added to achieve switching function, then switching capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary intermediate components such as separate commutation rods and insulating tubes by integrating their functions directly into the annular stationary contact and movable contact element structure. The conductor bar passes directly through the annular contact, eliminating the need for additional commutation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the movable contact element move around a stationary conductor bar, the invention inverts the arrangement by having the conductor bar pass through the annular stationary contact. This inversion simplifies the switching mechanism and reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining full switching capability.
3Volume of stationary object
If the stationary contact is made annular and surrounds the conductor bar, then device size is reduced, but contact reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an annular (circular) stationary contact that surrounds the conductor bar, utilizing curved geometry to achieve compact size. The circular shape allows the contact to enclose the conductor bar in a space-efficient manner while maintaining uniform contact pressure and reliable electrical connection through the curved contact surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a nested configuration where the conductor bar passes through the hollow center of the annular stationary contact, and the movable contact element moves within the annular space. This nesting arrangement maximizes space utilization, reduces overall device volume, and ensures reliable contact through concentric alignment of all components.
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
The design reduces the size and complexity of the switch while maintaining reliable electrical contact, achieving a more cost-effective and compact switching solution.
Implementation Method 1
a casing (2) closed in gastight manner in order to be filled with a dielectrically insulating gas
Implementation Method 2
spring contacts are provided on the switch element or on the stationary contact
Data Source
AI summary
An electric switch including a stationary contact that is annular. The switch comprises a gastight enclosure, a conductor bar of axis (D), a stationary contact presenting a contact zone of substantially annular shape, a switch element, e.g. on the conductor bar, that is movable in the axial direction of the axis (D) between a first position in which it penetrates in part into the stationary contact to establish electrical contact between the conductor bar and the stationary contact, and a second position in which it interrupts said contact. The stationary contact, which is in the form of a ring that is circular or elongate, such as elliptical, surrounds the conductor bar, at least in part.