Configurable Circuit Interrupter Assembly with Modular Insulation Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing circuit interrupting devices lack flexibility in configuration and manufacturing processes, limiting their adaptability to various current path and sensing options, which restricts their application in multiphase power distribution systems.
Innovation Solution
A circuit interrupting device with a configurable solid insulation housing and in situ molding of a core member, allowing for various current path configurations and sensing options, utilizing a sectionalized mold tool for easy reconfiguration and production of different device configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a circuit interrupting device is designed with fixed configuration, then manufacturing process is simple, but adaptability to various current path and sensing options is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into modular components including a base, a configurable housing with multiple positions, and interchangeable sensing options. This segmentation allows the housing to be positioned differently to create various current path configurations while using the same base structure, thereby improving adaptability without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The configurable housing serves multiple functions by being positionable in different locations to establish different current paths and to accommodate various sensing options. This multi-functionality allows a single component to adapt to different application requirements, enhancing versatility while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If device configuration is made flexible to accommodate various sensing options, then adaptability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing options are designed as separate, interchangeable modules that can be independently manufactured and then assembled onto the base structure. This segmentation allows each sensing module to be optimized and manufactured separately using standard processes, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining flexibility in sensing option selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The base structure and housing are pre-configured with standardized mounting interfaces and alignment features during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation of the base structure allows sensing options to be easily attached later without requiring complex custom manufacturing processes, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple current path configurations are integrated into single device, then device versatility increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different current path configurations are achieved by positioning the housing in different locations relative to the base, rather than integrating multiple complex internal pathways. This segmentation of functions into positional variations of a single component structure provides multiple current path options while maintaining simplicity in the internal structure of each component.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of creating multiple current paths through complex internal routing within a single housing, the invention uses the spatial dimension by allowing the housing to be positioned in different locations. This dimensional approach provides multiple current path configurations through external arrangement rather than internal complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A circuit interrupting device is manufacturable in a number of different configurations providing current path options, conductor connectivity options and sensing options. A plurality of circuit interrupting devices (302) may be configured together in an assembly with corresponding disconnect assemblies (306). An interlock is provided to prevent operation of the disconnect assemblies (306) unless the circuit interrupting devices (302) are in an open state.