Circuit Breaker Handle Actuation Device for Compact Enclosures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current circuit breaker handle mechanisms are too large to fit within short shelf sections in motor control center enclosures, requiring disassembly for access and increasing assembly and maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A compact circuit breaker handle actuation device with a rotatable frame and bracket system that translates the external handle's ON, OFF, and RESET/PARK positions to the circuit breaker handle, and indicates a TRIP position, allowing the device to be used in conjunction with existing external handle assemblies and enabling easy access for maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a large frame circuit breaker is located on a short shelf section, then the footprint of the motor control center is reduced, but the current handle mechanism does not fit within the short shelf section
Solution Approach 1:
The handle mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a handle assembly, a linkage mechanism with connecting rods, and a mounting structure. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled in a compact configuration that fits within the short shelf section while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle mechanism utilizes vertical space within the shelf section by arranging components in multiple dimensions. The linkage mechanism employs a vertical arrangement of connecting rods and pivots that extend upward from the circuit breaker, effectively using the third dimension (height) to accommodate the mechanism's sweep without increasing the horizontal footprint.
2Ease of manufacture
If the current handle mechanism is used, then the circuit breaker can be actuated, but the mechanism must be disassembled to gain access to the circuit breaker, increasing assembly time and maintenance costs
Solution Approach 1:
The handle mechanism is designed as a removable assembly that can be detached from the circuit breaker. The linkage mechanism connects to the circuit breaker through accessible mounting points on the shelf section, allowing the handle assembly to be removed entirely for circuit breaker access without requiring disassembly of the circuit breaker itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle mechanism is pre-assembled as a complete functional unit before installation. This includes pre-attaching the linkage components and adjusting the mechanical connections, so that during maintenance, the entire pre-assembled unit can be quickly removed or adjusted without requiring on-site disassembly and reassembly of individual components.
3Area of stationary object
If a compact handle mechanism is designed to fit in short shelf sections, then the footprint is reduced and access is improved, but the mechanism must translate multiple handle positions (ON, OFF, RESET/PARK, TRIP)
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it translates rotational motion from the handle to the circuit breaker, provides mechanical advantage for actuation, and indicates circuit breaker status through the handle's position. The same connecting rods and pivots that enable compact sizing also facilitate the translation of multiple positions through their geometric arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism acts as an intermediary between the handle and the circuit breaker, translating and adapting the handle's motion to the circuit breaker's requirements. The connecting rods and pivots serve as mechanical intermediaries that convert the handle's rotational movement into the appropriate linear and rotational motions needed to actuate the circuit breaker in multiple positions.
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 reduces the footprint of motor control centers, simplifies assembly and maintenance by allowing the large frame circuit breaker to be used in short shelf sections without disassembly, thereby minimizing costs and enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the device translates the motion to the external handle to show a corresponding TRIP position
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit breaker handle actuation device used in conjunction with a circuit breaker having a circuit breaker handle and an external handle located on an electrical enclosure. The device includes a stationary frame having first and second horizontal supports. The device also includes a rotatable frame having first and second horizontal elements which extend from first and second vertical elements, respectively. The first and second vertical elements are rotatably attached to the first and second horizontal supports. In addition, an opening for receiving the circuit breaker handle is located between the first and second vertical elements. Further, the device includes a rotatable bracket having first and second vertical arms which are rotatably attached to the first and second horizontal elements, respectively, wherein the rotatable bracket is connected to the external handle. Movement of the external handle between ON, OFF and RESET/PARK positions causes corresponding movement of the circuit breaker handle.