Dual Switch Assembly for Arc Quenching and Low Loss Conduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electric breaker switches fail to efficiently quench electric arcs during high power direct current interruption, leading to material deterioration and increased energy consumption due to prolonged quenching times and high thermal losses.
Innovation Solution
A dual-switch assembly design where a first switch assembly with multiple breaker elements in series is used for transient current interruption, and a second switch assembly with lower electrical resistance is used for permanent state operation, allowing current to flow through it to reduce power losses, while optimizing arc quenching and energy efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple breaker elements are connected in series for arc quenching, then arc quenching efficiency is improved, but power losses due to heating increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic switching mechanism where the system automatically transitions between two switch assemblies based on operational state. During transient conditions (arc quenching), the first switch assembly with multiple breaker elements in series is activated to provide superior arc quenching efficiency. During permanent state operation, the system switches to the second switch assembly with lower electrical resistance to minimize power losses. This dynamic reconfiguration resolves the contradiction by optimizing for arc quenching only when necessary, rather than continuously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical resistance parameter of the switching system by selecting different switch assemblies based on operational requirements. The first switch assembly uses multiple breaker elements in series, resulting in higher resistance but better arc quenching. The second switch assembly uses fewer elements or different configuration, resulting in lower resistance and reduced heating losses during normal operation. This parameter change allows the system to optimize for either arc quenching or energy efficiency depending on the operational phase.
2Reliability
If the gap between contacts is increased for arc quenching, then arc quenching efficiency is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic switching between two configurations rather than permanently increasing the gap between contacts. During arc quenching operations, the first switch assembly is activated which may have larger contact gaps or multiple interruption points for effective arc quenching. During normal conduction, the system switches to the second switch assembly with smaller gaps, thereby maintaining compact device size. This dynamic approach allows the system to achieve effective arc quenching only when needed without permanently increasing device volume.
3Loss of energy
If switch assembly remains closed for permanent state operation, then energy efficiency is improved, but arc quenching capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic switching mechanism that automatically selects the appropriate switch assembly based on operational state. For permanent state operation during normal conduction, the system closes the second switch assembly which has lower electrical resistance and better energy efficiency. For transient operations requiring arc quenching, the system opens the second assembly and closes the first assembly with multiple breaker elements configured for superior arc quenching capability. This dynamic behavior ensures optimal performance for each operational phase without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic switching between two switch assemblies based on the operational cycle. During normal operation periods, the second switch assembly remains closed for energy efficiency. When transient conditions occur requiring arc quenching, the system periodically switches to the first assembly, performs the arc quenching operation, then returns to the second assembly for normal conduction. This periodic action allows the system to maintain energy efficiency while periodically activating arc quenching capability when needed.
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 energy losses by 66% and improves thermal efficiency, meeting energy reduction targets by minimizing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, while maintaining high arc quenching efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
reduces power losses due to heating during the electrical conduction permanent state
Implementation Method 2
electric arcs formed when the contacts thereof open and close
Data Source
AI summary
An electric switch includes a first and a second connection terminal for connecting the switch to an external circuit; a first switch assembly, which includes two or more electric breaker elements connected in series to one another and to the first and the second connection terminal; a second switch assembly, which includes at least one delayed electric breaker element connected in parallel to the first switch assembly. A moving actuator is made of insulating material and is associated with the first and the second switch assembly to open or close them. The moving actuator is movable between a closed switch position in which electrical continuity is established between the first and the second connection terminal, and an open position in which current flow between said terminals is prevented.