High-Voltage Switch Layout Without Arc Suppression Elements
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional high-voltage switching devices are complex, costly, and unreliable due to their reliance on arc suppression elements and exotic materials to prevent electrical arcs during switching operations.
Innovation Solution
A high-voltage switch design that operates without arc suppression elements, utilizing a planar substrate, a non-conductive arm with contacts, and a rotary actuator to reconfigure the circuit in an unpowered state, achieving a breakdown voltage of at least 500V.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If arc suppression elements and exotic materials are used to prevent electrical arcs, then the switch can handle high voltage, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes arc suppression elements (clamping circuits, enclosures with vacuum/inert gas/fluid, and exotic contact materials) from the switch design. By extracting these complex components and relying on proper clearance and creepage distances between contacts, the invention achieves high voltage handling capability without the added complexity and cost of traditional arc suppression mechanisms.
2Speed
If solenoids are used to move contacts quickly, then switching time is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates solenoids and return springs from the actuator mechanism. Instead of using powered solenoids that require continuous energization, the invention employs a simple rotary actuator that moves contacts between positions without requiring complex electromagnetic components or continuous power supply, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining functional switching capability.
3Reliability
If continuous power is supplied to solenoids to maintain contact position, then contact positioning is reliable, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from continuous solenoid energization to periodic or on-demand actuation. The rotary actuator only needs to be activated when contact position changes are required, rather than requiring continuous power supply to maintain position. This periodic action approach reduces energy consumption while maintaining the ability to reliably switch contact positions when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A high-voltage switch is disclosed. The switch includes a substrate, a first contact fixedly coupled to the substrate, a second contact having a first position in conductive contact with the first contact and a second position not in conductive contact with the first contact; and an actuator comprising a body fixedly coupled to the substrate and a movable element coupled to the second contact. The actuator is configured to selectably move the second contact between its first and second positions. The switch has a breakdown voltage greater than or equal to 500V and does not include an arc suppression element.