Collinear On-Load Tap Changer Rods for Compact Transformers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional on-load tap changers used in high-voltage transformers are not suitable for local mains transformers due to size constraints, necessitating a compact and reliable solution for regulating local mains transformers, especially with the integration of alternative energy sources like wind and photovoltaic installations.
Innovation Solution
A compact on-load tap changer design featuring collinearly arranged selector rods and a load changeover-switch rod, facilitated by a transmission mechanism that moves the rods in specific directions to actuate a switch, allowing for rapid and reliable load changes during operation, with components potentially made from electrically non-conductive materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional on-load tap changers are used in high-voltage transformers, then reliable load changeover is achieved, but the device size becomes too large for local mains transformers
Solution Approach 1:
The tap changer is divided into multiple selector rods (first selector rod, second selector rod, third selector rod) that are arranged collinearly. Each selector rod handles specific switching functions, allowing the overall device to be more compact while maintaining reliable load changeover capability. The segmentation of switching functions across multiple rods reduces the volume required compared to conventional single-rod designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The selector rods are arranged collinearly along a common axis, utilizing linear spatial arrangement to minimize the device footprint. This dimensional optimization allows the tap changer to achieve compact size suitable for local mains transformers while preserving the functional reliability needed for load changeover operations.
2Ease of operation
If selector rods are moved during changeover, then selector contact switching is achieved, but additional movement of load changeover-switch rod is required for switch actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission mechanism merges the movement functions of multiple selector rods and the load changeover-switch rod into a coordinated system. The transmission couples these components so that their movements are synchronized and interdependent, simplifying the overall operation while enabling both selector contact switching and switch actuation to occur seamlessly during load changeover.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission acts as an intermediary mechanism that coordinates the movements between the selector rods and the load changeover-switch rod. This intermediary system ensures proper sequencing and coordination of rod movements, reducing operational complexity while maintaining ease of switching operations.
Data Source
AI summary
An on-load tap changer has: a first selector rod and a second selector rod; a load changeover-switch rod; a switch; and a transmission. The first selector rod, the second selector rod and the load changeover-switch rod are arranged collinearly. The transmission is configured to: move the first selector rod and the second selector rod during changeover from one selector contact to an adjacent selector contact in a first direction; and move the load changeover-switch rod during the changeover in the first direction and a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, so as to actuate the switch.