Flexible-Link Switchgear Switch for Continuous Contact Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switchgear technologies for medium and high voltage applications face challenges with discontinuous transmission, high accuracy requirements, and space constraints in actuation mechanisms, particularly with lever-based and spindle-based systems, and require costly thread production.
Innovation Solution
A switch utilizing flexible links and a contact drive with cog wheels to enable continuous transmission and efficient actuation between on, off, and earthing states, allowing for compact design and reduced space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If lever based actuation is used, then the switch can be actuated to move between positions, but discontinuous transmission is created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional lever-based mechanical actuation system with a voice coil actuator that uses electromagnetic force to move the switch contacts. This substitution eliminates the discontinuous transmission inherent in lever mechanisms by providing direct electromagnetic actuation, thereby improving transmission continuity while reducing mechanical complexity.
2Reliability
If spindle based activation is used, then discontinuities are reduced, but high accuracy thread production is required which increases cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the spindle and thread mechanism entirely by using a voice coil actuator. This replacement avoids the need for high-precision thread production while achieving continuous transmission through direct electromagnetic actuation of the switch contacts.
3Ease of operation
If push rod based actuation is used, then the switch can be actuated, but significant space is required for the actuation movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the space-consuming push rod actuation system with a compact voice coil actuator. The electromagnetic actuator generates sufficient force within a much smaller volume, eliminating the need for large actuation spaces while maintaining full switch actuation capability.
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 provides continuous and efficient switching with reduced space demands, enabling high axial force application and minimizing the need for additional mechanical components, while allowing for smooth transitions between states with minimal cog wheel rotation.
Implementation Method 1
the moveable contact is configured to be in a position that connects the first fixed contact to the second fixed contact... The contact drive is configured to pull the moveable contact via the at least one flexible link and the contact drive is configured to push the moveable contact
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a switch for a medium voltage or high voltage switchgear. The switch comprises a first fixed contact, a second fixed contact, a moveable contact, at least one flexible link, and a contact drive. In an on state of the switch the moveable contact is configured to be in a position that connects the first fixed contact to the second fixed contact. In an off state of the switch the moveable contact is configured to be in a position where the first fixed contact is not connected to the second fixed contact. The at least one flexible link is connected to the moveable contact. The at least one flexible link engages with the contact drive. The contact drive is configured to pull the moveable contact via the at least one flexible link and the contact drive is configured to push the moveable contact via the at least one flexible link. Activation of the contact drive in a first mode is configured to move the moveable contact to the position such that the switch is in the on state. Activation of the contact drive in a second mode is drive is configured to move the moveable contact to the position such that the switch is in the off state.