Compact Electronic Trip Device Integrating Electromagnetic Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic trip devices for switchgear apparatuses are not optimized for compactness and require cumbersome assembly procedures due to space constraints from connections between component elements, necessitating external auxiliary units and hard-wired connections.
Innovation Solution
An electronic trip device with an integrated electromagnetic actuator and compact design that includes a printed circuit board, actuator sheath, and transformer unit, allowing for direct processing of current and voltage values, and featuring non-wired connectors and an optic communication passage for enhanced compactness and simplified assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electronic trip devices include multiple functionalities (processing, measuring, actuating) in a single unit, then device integration and compactness are improved, but space requirements and connection complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electromagnetic actuator, processing unit, and measurement components into a single integrated electronic trip device housing. The actuator is positioned adjacent to the printed circuit board within the same housing, eliminating the need for separate auxiliary units and hard-wired connections, thereby achieving functional integration without proportionally increasing housing volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic trip device is designed as a universal unit that can perform multiple functions: current measurement via integrated transformers, signal processing on the printed circuit board, and contact actuation through the electromagnetic actuator. This multi-functional design allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If trip devices are designed with standardized dimensions to fit existing switchgear, then compatibility is improved, but design flexibility and optimization are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is designed with standardized external dimensions to ensure compatibility with existing switchgear apparatus, while the internal arrangement of components (actuator, PCB, transformers) is locally optimized for compactness and functional integration. This allows the device to meet both compatibility requirements and manufacturing optimization goals.
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 enables a compact, efficient electronic trip device that integrates actuation and measurement functions within a small volume, facilitating assembly and replacing existing trip units, while ensuring reliable operation and easy integration with various switchgear configurations.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator (50) able to take an inactive position and an active position in which it is protruding from the case orthogonally to the side panel
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic module for a trip device has been optimised so as to integrate the known functionalities, in particular threshold parameter setting, current measurements, voltage taps, read-out display and communication. An electromagnetic actuator is further present in the electronic module to optimise breaking of the associated circuit breaker. The space occupation constraints inherent to location of the trip device in existing switchgear units have been respected.