Induced-Current Cutoff Circuit for Self-Powered Breaker Tripping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional cutoff devices require separate structural elements for detecting overcurrents and driving the cutoff mechanism, which can fail if disconnected due to accidents, leading to operational failures.

Innovation Solution

A cutoff device configuration that includes an electrical path with a coil generating an induced current, which drives a breaker through wiring, eliminating the need for a separate power source and enabling detection of overcurrents using the same induced current, thereby simplifying the device's configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate structural elements are used for detecting overcurrent and driving the cutoff mechanism, then the detection function can be performed, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to potential disconnection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational reliabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the detection coil and driving coil into a single integrated coil structure. The same coil generates induced current that serves both detection and driving functions, eliminating the need for separate structural elements and reducing potential disconnection points while maintaining operational reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single coil structure performs multiple functions: it detects overcurrent conditions and simultaneously generates the induced current to drive the cutoff mechanism. This multi-functional design reduces the number of components needed while improving system reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If separate power supply is used for driving the cutoff mechanism, then the driving function can be ensured, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration simplicityVSAvoidpower supply requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses the induced current generated by the coil itself to drive the cutoff mechanism, rather than requiring an external power supply. The same electromagnetic induction that enables detection also provides the driving energy, making the system self-sufficient and simplifying the overall configuration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the power supply function with the detection function by using the induced current from the same coil for both purposes. This eliminates the need for a separate power supply system and reduces configuration complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 allows for a more reliable and simplified cutoff device operation by using the induced current to drive the breaker and detect overcurrents, reducing the risk of failure due to disconnection and enhancing operational efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a first coil in which a first induced current corresponding to an electric current flowing through the electrical path is generated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20240371588A1Cutoff device and driving device
Publication Date: 2024.11.07 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • US20240371588A1 patent drawing
  • US20240371588A1 patent drawing
  • US20240371588A1 patent drawing

AI summary

This cutoff device includes: an electrical path; a first coil in which a first induced current corresponding to an electric current flowing through the electrical path is generated; a breaker that interrupts the electrical path; and wiring that electrically connects the first coil and the breaker. The breaker is driven with the first induced current generated in the first coil.