Spring-Ejected Arrester Signaling via Electromagnetic Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signaling devices for short-circuit states in lightning arresters lack efficiency and safety, particularly in terms of reusability and economic viability, and may deteriorate due to pyrotechnic mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A signaling device using an electric suction cup as a retaining member, which is released by the force of one or more springs, allowing for safe and reusable operation without external energy sources, and featuring a compact design with a signaling strip and electronic card for reliable detection of short-circuit currents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pyrotechnic detonator is used to signal the short-circuit state, then the signaling function is achieved, but safety is compromised and the device cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the pyrotechnic detonator (chemical system) with an electric suction cup actuated by a spring (mechanical system). The electric suction cup uses electromagnetic force to hold the signaling flap in place during normal operation, and when a short-circuit occurs, the electromagnetic force disappears allowing the spring to eject the flap. This substitution eliminates the safety hazards of pyrotechnics while maintaining the signaling function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational state of the retaining mechanism from a permanent chemical reaction (pyrotechnic detonation) to a reversible electromagnetic state. The electric suction cup can be reset by restoring power, allowing the device to be reused. The spring mechanism provides the same ejection function but without the harmful effects of explosives, and the entire system can be reset by simply restoring the electromagnetic field.
2Reliability
If a pyrotechnic detonator is used to signal the short-circuit state, then the signaling function is achieved, but the device deteriorates and cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the pyrotechnic detonator (chemical system) with an electric suction cup actuated by a spring (mechanical system). The electric suction cup uses electromagnetic force to hold the signaling flap in place during normal operation, and when a short-circuit occurs, the electromagnetic force disappears allowing the spring to eject the flap. This substitution eliminates the safety hazards of pyrotechnics while maintaining the signaling function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables recovery and reuse of the signaling device by replacing the consumable pyrotechnic detonator with a reusable electromagnetic-mechanical system. The electric suction cup can be reset by restoring power, and the spring mechanism can be reused indefinitely. The signaling flap can be reset to its original position, allowing the device to be deployed again on a replaced surge arrester.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If an electric suction cup is used as a retaining member, then the device becomes reusable and safer, but the complexity of the retaining mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the retaining function and the signaling function into a single integrated mechanism. The electric suction cup serves both to retain the signaling flap during normal operation and to release it during a short-circuit event. The spring mechanism simultaneously provides the ejection force and the reset capability. This merging reduces the overall complexity compared to using separate pyrotechnic and retaining mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric suction cup performs multiple functions: it acts as an electromagnetic latch to hold the signaling flap, serves as a failure indicator (when it releases), and enables reset capability. The spring mechanism also performs multiple functions: providing ejection force, enabling reset, and acting as a mechanical memory element. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If an electric suction cup is used as a retaining member, then the device becomes reusable, but the need for electrical supply complicates the system
Solution Approach 1:
The electric suction cup is powered by the short-circuit current itself, eliminating the need for an external power source. When a short-circuit occurs, the excessive current automatically activates the electromagnetic latch, causing it to release and eject the signaling flap. The system uses the fault condition's own energy to trigger the signaling mechanism, making the device self-sufficient and reusable without requiring external battery or power supply 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
The device provides a safe, efficient, and cost-effective means to signal short-circuit states in lightning arresters, allowing for easy reuse and reliable detection of short-circuit conditions without deterioration, ensuring operator safety and network integrity.
Implementation Method 1
said electric suction cup is adapted to retain a ferrous metallic element when it is not electrically supplied
Implementation Method 2
the simple release of a retaining element by the force of one or more spring(s)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The device (10) has a retaining body formed of an electric vent (44) and electrically connected to a detection unit formed of an electronic board (32) and a coil (30). The retaining body takes a locking state in case of absence of a default signal, and takes an unlocking state in case of presence of the default signal. The retaining body retains a retaining element i.e. ejection flap, in the nominal position when the retaining body is in the locking state. The retaining body liberates the retaining element when the retaining body is in the unlocking state.