Control Module Cover Disconnect Detection for Electric Shock Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric heating devices, such as electric radiators, pose a risk of electric shock when the metal hood of the control module is opened while the device is powered, especially at high voltages.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an electronic protective circuit within the control module that measures electrical parameters to detect any interruption in the connection between the metal hood and the electronic control card, thereby generating a signal to interrupt the power supply if the hood is opened.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the control module is equipped with high-voltage power supply for powerful heating, then the heating power is increased, but the risk of electric shock increases when the cover is opened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a preliminary action by detecting the cover opening state before high-voltage current can cause harm. The detection circuit monitors the position of the cover through electrical contacts, and when opening is detected, the control circuit proactively interrupts the high-voltage power supply to the heating element, preventing electric shock before it can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection circuit and control circuit between the high-voltage power supply and the heating element. This intermediary system includes electrical contacts on the cover and housing, a detection circuit that monitors contact state, and a control circuit that mediates the power supply interruption, creating a safety buffer that prevents direct exposure to high voltage when the cover is opened.
2Ease of operation
If the control module housing is opened for access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the safety protection is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of the cover opening state through electrical contacts before allowing any dangerous conditions to develop. When the cover is opened, the detection circuit immediately registers the change in electrical contact state and triggers the control circuit to interrupt power supply, ensuring that access can be obtained safely without exposure to live high-voltage components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the detection circuit continuously monitors the electrical contact state between the cover and housing. This real-time feedback is transmitted to the control circuit, which automatically responds by interrupting or maintaining power supply based on the detected state, creating a closed-loop safety system that adapts to the cover opening condition.
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
This solution provides an additional layer of protection against electric shocks by automatically cutting the power supply when the hood of the control module is opened, ensuring safety even in high-voltage applications.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electrically conductive element configured to establish an electrical connection between the cover and the electronic control card
Implementation Method 2
The current supply to these resistive elements generates heating of the heating element
Implementation Method 3
These are elements whose resistive value varies very greatly depending on the temperature. More precisely, the ohmic value of PTC resistive elements increases very quickly beyond a predetermined temperature threshold.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a control module (5) configured to drive the supply of electric power to an electrical device with the aid of a control signal, and comprising a housing (7) closed by a metal cover (73) and an electronic control board (9). According to the invention, the control module (5) comprises at least one electrically conductive element (15; 17) configured to establish an electrical connection between the cover (73) and the electronic control board (9). The electronic control board (9) comprises an electronic protection circuit (19) configured to measure at least one electrical parameter of the control signal, detect an interruption to the electrical connection between the cover (73) and the electronic control board (9) on the basis of said at least one measured electrical parameter, and generate a signal for interrupting the supply of electric power in the event of detecting electrical disconnection. The invention also relates to an electrical device comprising such a control module (5) and a method for detecting the removal of the cover (73) from such a control module (5).