Bypass Switch Axial Latch Mechanism for Fast Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bypass switches in power electronics equipment, such as those using vacuum valves, experience delays in closing operations due to the time required for the disk-like open/close spring to turn over and complete contact closure, which is critical for preventing diode failure and system breakdown.
Innovation Solution
A bypass switch design where an insulating rod connected to the movable contact, a closing spring, and an operation unit with a latch function are arranged in series along the axial direction of the vacuum valve, allowing smooth transmission of the closing spring's force and reducing the time to cancel latch engagement and complete contact closure, featuring a simplified structure and reduced component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a disk-like open/close spring is used in the conventional operation mechanism, then the contact can be opened or closed, but the closing time is extended due to the time required for the spring to turn over
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the disk-like open/close spring from the operation mechanism. Instead, it uses a simple latch structure that can be quickly engaged and disengaged, eliminating the time-consuming spring turnover process and achieving rapid contact closure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by using a latch mechanism that maintains the contact-opened state through engagement, rather than using a spring to actively drive the closing operation. The latch is simply released to allow rapid closing, reversing the conventional spring-driven closing mechanism.
2Reliability
If multiple components are arranged in the operation unit, then the functions of opening and closing can be achieved, but the structure becomes complex and assembly becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the opening and closing control functions into a single integrated latch structure. The latch simultaneously controls both opening (through engagement) and closing (through release), eliminating the need for separate disk springs and multiple independent components, thus simplifying the overall structure while maintaining operational reliability.
3Reliability
If a conventional operation mechanism with multiple parts is used, then the switch can operate, but the weight of the operation unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the heavy disk-like spring component from the operation unit, retaining only the essential latch structure. This extraction of unnecessary components significantly reduces the weight of the moving parts while preserving the core functionality of reliable switch operation.
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 design significantly shortens the closing time, simplifies the operation unit, reduces weight, and facilitates faster assembly, enabling quicker contact closure and maintaining a contact-opened state with a simple configuration.
Implementation Method 1
a closing spring having a closing function and fitted to the other end side of the insulating rod
Implementation Method 2
a vacuum valve composing a switch main unit
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6
AI summary
Provided is a bypass switch with the closing time shortened. A bypass switch using a vacuum valve 1 having a fixed contact 2a and a movable contact 2b includes: an insulating rod 5 having one end side connected to the movable contact 2b; a closing spring 14 fitted to the other end side of the insulating rod 5, and having a closing function to close the contacts and a contact-pressing function to apply pressure to the contacts; and an operation unit having a latch function to keep a contact-opened state, and connected to the other end side of the insulating rod 5, wherein the insulating rod 5, the closing spring 14, and the operation unit are arranged in series along the axial direction of the vacuum valve 1.