Circuit Interruption Device Constriction Zone Arc Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Circuit interruption devices with mechanical contact break systems experience significant arcing issues, leading to larger and more expensive devices due to the need to accommodate high current and voltage, resulting in oversized and costly circuit protection systems.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a circuit interruption device with a constriction zone created by a movable gate that rotates to form a constriction zone within the arcing zone, reducing arcing by limiting the electrical arc through complementary expansion and constriction zones, allowing for smaller and more cost-effective designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If circuit breakers are designed to accommodate high current and voltage, then arc extinction capability is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The arc path is segmented into multiple sections by introducing a partition wall with a slot. The arc is divided into a first arc section and a second arc section that occur in different spatial locations, allowing effective arc extinction in a compact device volume
Solution Approach 2:
The partition wall with a slot introduces a new spatial dimension for arc control. The slot in the partition wall creates a constrained path for the arc, effectively managing high voltage arcs without increasing overall device size
2Reliability
If circuit breakers are designed to accommodate high current and voltage, then arc extinction capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The arc path is segmented into multiple sections by introducing a partition wall with a slot. The arc is divided into a first arc section and a second arc section that occur in different spatial locations, allowing effective arc extinction in a compact device volume
Solution Approach 2:
The partition wall with a slot introduces a new spatial dimension for arc control. The slot in the partition wall creates a constrained path for the arc, effectively managing high voltage arcs without increasing overall device size
3Volume of stationary object
If circuit breaker size is reduced, then device cost decreases, but arc extinction capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The arc path is segmented into multiple sections by introducing a partition wall with a slot. The arc is divided into a first arc section and a second arc section that occur in different spatial locations, allowing effective arc extinction in a compact device volume
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the arc extinction chamber have different structural characteristics. The partition wall with slot creates localized constriction zones that specifically target arc path control, while maintaining overall compact device dimensions
4Object-generated harmful factors
If arc constrictive features are introduced, then arcing is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the arc extinction chamber have different structural characteristics. The partition wall with slot creates localized constriction zones that specifically target arc path control, while maintaining overall compact device dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The partition wall with a slot acts as an intermediary structure that controls and directs the arc path. It creates a constrained geometry that naturally limits arc development without requiring active control mechanisms
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 effectively reduces arcing, enabling smaller and more affordable circuit interruption devices while maintaining voltage capability, thus addressing the size and cost challenges of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
a common type of protection device is known as a 'circuit breaker.' Generally, a circuit breaker includes a resettable mechanical contact break system. All circuit interruption devices with mechanical contact break systems experience some level of 'arcing' during circuit interruption
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4C
Figure 5A~5B
AI summary
A circuit interruption device (10) includes at least one constriction zone (41). The constriction zone (41) provides for interference with arcing of an electrical signal. The device (10) may include at least one expansion zone (42). The device (10) may include at least one movable component to assist in creation of the at least one constriction zone (41). A method of fabrication is provided.