Plug-In Circuit Breaker Interlock for Closed-State Insertion Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug-in circuit breakers have complex structures with many parts, which hinder miniaturization and reliability, and fail to meet the safety and connectivity requirements of modern electrical systems, especially in 5G communication equipment.
Innovation Solution
A plug-in circuit breaker with a simplified structure featuring a locking member that moves linearly inside the housing, actuated by an elastic member, allowing for easy extension and retraction of the locking protruding stand, and an unlocking member for safe removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking apparatus with multiple parts is used to prevent insertion/removal in closing state, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking protrusion, elastic member, and limiting mechanism into a single integrated locking apparatus. The locking protrusion is directly formed on the operating mechanism and works in conjunction with the limiting hole in the housing, eliminating the need for separate locking components while maintaining the safety function of preventing insertion or removal when the circuit breaker is in the closing state.
2Reliability
If a complex locking apparatus with many parts is used, then locking reliability is improved, but miniaturization becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is integrated into the existing operating mechanism structure. The locking protrusion is formed as part of the operating mechanism rather than as a separate component, and the elastic member is incorporated within the housing structure. This integration significantly reduces the overall volume required for the locking function while maintaining reliable locking performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating mechanism serves multiple functions: it operates the circuit breaker switching and simultaneously provides the locking function through its integrated locking protrusion. The housing structure also serves dual purposes by providing mechanical support and incorporating the limiting hole that works with the locking protrusion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and minimizes the overall device size.
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 solution provides a compact, reliable, and safe circuit breaker that can be easily installed and removed, ensuring proper connection and disconnection while preventing accidental insertion or removal in the closed state.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member is connected between the locking member and the housing, the elastic force of the elastic member actuates the locking protruding stand of the locking member to extend out of the housing
Data Source
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AI summary
A plug-in circuit breaker comprising a housing providing with a limiting hole, a button mechanism having has a closing position and a opening position, and an operating mechanism actuated by the button mechanism to perform the closing/opening operation, wherein the plug-in circuit breaker includes a locking member arranged inside the housing, the locking member is provided with a locking protruding stand opposite to the limiting hole, when the button mechanism is in the closing position, the locking protruding stand of the locking member extending out of the limiting hole and limited by the button mechanism cannot retract into said housing; when the button mechanism is in the opening position, the locking protruding stand of the locking member extends out of the limiting hole, applying an external force on the locking member for retraction, thus the locking protruding stand of the locking member can retract into the housing, and the locking member limits the button mechanism to perform the closing operation, so that the circuit breaker cannot be closed. The plug-in circuit breaker can prevent circuit breakers from being plugged in and plugged out in the closing state, and being closed during installation process, and has a simple structure and high reliability.