Bi-directional Electromagnetic Relay Drive for Fast Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing relays in power distribution systems, particularly in data centers, face limitations in transfer time, which can exceed the recommended 20 milliseconds for modern EDP equipment, leading to potential power interruptions and equipment damage due to uncontrolled contact motion and bounce.
Innovation Solution
The use of a bi-directional electromagnetic drive system to accelerate and decelerate the moveable electrode structure within the relay, optimizing its motion to achieve faster transfer times, reduce bounce, and extend electrode life, allowing for controlled contact switching between circuit electrodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional relay mechanisms are used, then the relay structure is simple and reliable, but the transfer time is too long (exceeding 20 milliseconds) for modern EDP equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a bi-directional electromagnetic drive system that dynamically controls the motion of the moveable electrode structure. The system accelerates the electrode during the first portion of travel and decelerates it during the second portion, transforming the static relay mechanism into a dynamically controlled system that achieves faster transfer times while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the motion parameters of the relay electrode by controlling acceleration and deceleration phases. By modifying the velocity profile during contact closure, the system reduces bounce and arc duration, achieving transfer times within the 20 millisecond requirement while managing the complexity through controlled parameter variation
2Speed
If relay contacts are moved quickly to reduce transfer time, then speed improves, but mechanical deformation and arcing increase reducing contact lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by implementing a deceleration phase before the moveable electrode structure completes its travel. The bi-directional electromagnetic drive system detects approaching contact closure and applies opposing force to reduce velocity, preventing excessive mechanical deformation and arcing that would otherwise occur at high speeds, thus extending contact lifespan while maintaining fast transfer times
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic drive system provides beforehand cushioning by controlling the deceleration of the moveable electrode structure prior to contact closure. This controlled slowing reduces the impact force and arc energy at the moment of contact, protecting the electrode surfaces from damage while achieving the required switching speed
3Reliability
If the relay transfer time is reduced to meet EDP equipment requirements, then equipment protection improves, but the relay mechanism experiences increased stress and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamics to balance equipment protection with component durability by implementing controlled acceleration and deceleration phases. The bi-directional electromagnetic drive system optimizes the velocity profile to achieve rapid transfer times that protect EDP equipment from power interruptions while simultaneously managing the mechanical stress on relay components through controlled motion profiles
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 approach significantly reduces the transfer time of relays, enhances their reliability, and extends the lifespan of contacts by minimizing mechanical deformation and arcing, making them suitable for critical applications like data centers and power distribution systems.
Implementation Method 1
a bi-directional electromagnetic drive system to accelerate and decelerate the moveable electrode structure within the relay
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical relay (2) includes an electromagnetic drive system for providing bi-directional drive. The electrical relay (2) includes a first a coil (212) and a second coil (213). A current is supplied to the coils (212) and (213) in opposite directions. The two coils (212) and (213) can be used to accelerate the armature in either direction in relation to the two contacts. This can be used to drive the armature to either one of the contacts and to accelerate and decelerate the armature during a single transit. In the latter regard, the armature can be accelerated and decelerated to shorten the transit time, reduce bounce, reduce wear on the contacts, and allow for different contact material options.