Circuit Breaker Load Switching for Predictive Fault Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional circuit breakers fail to reliably disconnect branch circuits from the busbar in unsafe conditions, leading to potential electrical hazards due to manual operation wear and tear, and lack of predictive fault detection and control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
An enhanced circuit breaker with sensors, control circuitry, and a load switch that can be electronically operated in series with a main switch, allowing for automatic disconnection of loads beyond current thresholds and predictive fault detection, enhancing safety and control over electrical distribution systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional circuit breakers use manual operation for disconnecting branch circuits, then the structure remains simple, but reliability deteriorates due to wear and tear on manual operation mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with electronic control. The load switch is actuated by a switch actuator that responds to electronic control signals from the control circuitry, eliminating wear and tear associated with manual mechanical operation while improving reliability of disconnection.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit breaker performs automatic load shedding without manual intervention. The control circuitry monitors electrical parameters and automatically actuates the load switch when predetermined conditions are met, allowing the system to serve itself and improve reliability through automated protective action.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional circuit breakers lack predictive fault detection, then the device complexity remains low, but the ability to detect and mitigate hazards deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuitry continuously monitors electrical parameters such as current and temperature, and uses this feedback to detect fault conditions. When predetermined fault conditions are detected, the system automatically actuates the load switch to disconnect the branch circuit, providing predictive fault detection and mitigation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary fault detection and preventive disconnection before catastrophic failures occur. By monitoring electrical parameters and detecting anomalies early, the control circuitry can actuate the load switch to prevent hazardous conditions from developing into catastrophic failures.
3Productivity
If conventional circuit breakers lack electronic control mechanisms, then manufacturing remains simpler, but the ability to optimize load management deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuitry serves multiple functions including monitoring electrical parameters, detecting fault conditions, controlling the load switch actuator, and providing redundant disconnection capability. This multi-functionality enables optimized load management while the modular design keeps manufacturing feasible through integration of standard electronic components.
Data Source
AI summary
An enhanced circuit breaker in an alternating current (AC) electrical distribution system offers improved safety and control over an attached load. The enhanced circuit breaker contains sensors, control circuitry, and a main switch and a load switch that are actuator-operated and wired in series on the hot wire between the line and the load. The main switch may be tripped by the actuator to open, while a manual intervention is required to close. The load switch may be electronically opened and closed by operation of the actuator. Sensors within the enhanced circuit breaker may be used to detect fault conditions, as well as gathering data that may be used for predicting failures. Data from the sensors from one or more breakers may be used to determine state of the system, predict failures, and so forth. The breaker operates the load switch responsive to an external command.