Contact-Fitting Sensor Layout for Low-Power Switch Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switching devices in electrical power transmission systems require expensive sensors that consume significant energy and space, necessitating complex algorithms and increased computing power.
Innovation Solution
A cost-effective sensor design is integrated into the contact fitting of a switching device, which is thermally and mechanically supported by the fitting, operates autonomously using energy harvested from the environment, and transmits data wirelessly to a ground potential receiver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If expensive sensors with error correction algorithms are used, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the error correction functionality from the sensor itself and relocates it to a separate evaluation device. The sensor only performs simple measurements and transmits raw data, while the complex algorithms run remotely, reducing the sensor's energy consumption while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary evaluation device that receives data from the sensor and performs error correction processing. This mediator handles the computationally intensive tasks, allowing the sensor to operate with minimal energy expenditure while still achieving high measurement precision through the intermediary's processing.
2Measurement precision
If expensive sensors with complex algorithms are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sensor system into two distinct components: a simple sensor unit for data acquisition and a separate evaluation device for complex processing. This segmentation reduces the complexity of the sensor itself while maintaining overall system precision through the distributed architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the complex error correction algorithms from the sensor and places them in a separate evaluation device. This extraction simplifies the sensor design and reduces device complexity while preserving measurement precision through the remote processing capability.
3Ease of operation
If sensors are integrated into the contact fitting, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The contact fitting is designed to serve multiple functions: electrical connection, mechanical support, and sensor mounting. By making the contact fitting universal, the patent simplifies installation (ease of operation) while the robust multi-functional design compensates for reduced manufacturing precision requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the sensor mounting function with the existing contact fitting structure. Instead of requiring separate precision mounting mechanisms, the sensor is integrated into the contact fitting that already performs electrical and mechanical functions, easing operation while reducing manufacturing precision demands.
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 sensor provides reliable and long-term operation with minimal interference, reducing energy consumption and installation space requirements while maintaining accurate monitoring of switching device conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor is supported by the contact fitting, wherein the sensor rests on a surface of the contact fitting and is in thermal contact with it
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an electrical power transmission device comprising at least one switching unit having at least one contacting fitting (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 5, 5a, 5b, 10) for electrically contacting the switching unit. Furthermore, the switching unit has a sensor (9, 9a, 9b, 9c) for monitoring the state of the switching unit. The sensor (9, 9a, 9b, 9c) is supported by the contacting fitting (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 5, 5a, 5b, 10).