Self-contained Linkage Module for Dead Tank Circuit Breaker Service
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing dead tank circuit breakers require lengthy disassembly and reassembly due to the linkage structure being installed and removed on a component-by-component basis, which hampers serviceability.
Innovation Solution
A drive train linkage module is designed to be removable as a single unit with the operating mechanism, featuring interconnected drive structures and an operating mechanism that allows simultaneous movement and decoupling from actuating assemblies without disrupting factory settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the linkage structure is installed and removed on a component-by-component basis, then the circuit breaker can be assembled and disassembled using standard procedures, but the service time becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage structure is segmented into three separate drive structures (32a, 32b, 32c), each corresponding to a specific pole assembly. Each drive structure can be independently removed from its associated pole assembly, allowing for modular serviceability while maintaining the overall linkage functionality through the housing structure (54).
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure (54) merges the three separate drive structures into a single integrated assembly unit. This allows the entire linkage module to be removed and reinstalled as one complete unit rather than individual components, significantly reducing service time while maintaining the interconnected functionality of the drive structures.
2Loss of time
If the linkage module is removed as a single unit with the operating mechanism, then service time is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage module is segmented from the overall circuit breaker assembly as a distinct, self-contained unit. This segmentation allows the entire linkage module (including housing and all drive structures) to be removed and reinstalled as one unit, reducing service time while the internal complexity is contained within the modular boundary.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure (54) serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, contains all three drive structures, facilitates unified removal and installation, and maintains the mechanical connections between drive structures. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, managing complexity while enabling unit removal.
3Ease of operation
If the drive structures are decoupled from actuating assemblies, then the linkage module can be removed as a unit, but the coupling mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The drive structures are designed to be extractable from the housing structure (54) as complete assemblies. Each drive structure can be removed from its associated pole assembly while remaining connected to the housing, allowing the entire linkage module to be taken out as one unit for servicing without disrupting the circuit breaker's factory settings.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure (54) acts as an intermediary between the drive structures and the pole assemblies. It provides a standardized interface that allows drive structures to be coupled to and decoupled from pole assemblies while maintaining their interconnections within the housing, simplifying the removal process despite the complexity of maintaining all mechanical connections.
Data Source
AI summary
A linkage and operating assembly is provided for a dead tank circuit breaker. The circuit breaker has a plurality of pole assemblies and an actuating assembly associated with each pole assembly for opening and closing a movable electrical contact of the associated pole assembly. The linkage and operating assembly includes a linkage module having a plurality of drive structures. Each drive structure has a portion constructed and arranged to be removably coupled to an associated actuating assembly. An operating mechanism is coupled with the linkage module for causing movement of the drive structures substantially simultaneously. When the portions of the drive structures are decoupled from the associated actuating assemblies, the linkage module together with the operating mechanism is constructed and arranged to be removed as a single unit from the circuit breaker.