Interlocked Circuit Breakers Single Module Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional interlocking systems for circuit breakers are complex, prone to failure, and error-prone due to external mechanisms and cabling, which can lead to improper interlocking and faulty operation, especially when attempting to prevent simultaneous activation of multiple power sources.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of interlocked circuit breakers within a single module housing using mechanical interlocking linkages and pivot mechanisms, as well as electrical communication channels, to ensure that if one circuit breaker is closed, all others are disabled, thereby preventing simultaneous operation and reducing the risk of faulty interlock operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional external interlocking systems are used for circuit breakers, then interlocking function can be achieved, but the system becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the interlocking mechanism with the circuit breaker housing itself, integrating the interlock components directly into the breaker structure rather than using separate external systems. This consolidation eliminates the need for complex external linkages and cabling, reducing both device complexity and potential failure points while maintaining reliable interlocking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cam mechanism as an intermediary component that mechanically translates the position of one circuit breaker's handle into a blocking action on another breaker's handle. This cam-based intermediary provides a simple, reliable mechanical solution that avoids complex electrical interlocking systems while ensuring positive interlocking action.
2Reliability
If external mechanisms and cabling are used for interlocking, then interlocking can be implemented, but the system becomes prone to failure and improper operation
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the interlocking mechanism directly into the circuit breaker housing, the patent eliminates external cabling and separate interlocking components that could fail. The mechanical interlock becomes an inherent part of the breaker assembly, ensuring reliable operation through direct mechanical coupling rather than external connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlocking mechanism automatically prevents simultaneous closing of multiple breakers through its mechanical design. When one breaker is closed, the cam mechanism physically blocks the handles of other breakers from being closed, providing self-enforcing interlocking without requiring external control systems or additional operational steps.
3Ease of manufacture
If mechanical interlocking linkages are integrated within a single housing, then deployment ease and reliability are enhanced, but the housing design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple circuit breakers with interlocking functionality into a single integrated housing unit. This consolidation allows the entire interlocking system to be manufactured and tested as one assembly, simplifying deployment and installation while the internal housing design accommodates the mechanical interlock components through careful spatial arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests multiple circuit breaker units within a single housing, with the interlocking cam mechanisms integrated into the same space. This nested arrangement allows compact integration of multiple breakers and their interlocking components without requiring separate housings, facilitating easier deployment as a single unit while managing internal design complexity through efficient space utilization.
Data Source
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AI summary
A single module circuit breaker housing (250) includes a first circuit breaker, wherein the first circuit breaker includes a first shaft assembly (202) and a first contact mechanism (203) coupled to the first shaft assembly (202), a second circuit breaker, wherein the second circuit breaker includes a second shaft assembly (220) and a second contact mechanism (230) coupled to the second shaft assembly (220), a first linkage (204) coupled to the first shaft assembly (202) and the second contact mechanism (230), and a second linkage (240) coupled to the second shaft assembly (220) and the first contact mechanism (203).