Integrated Magnetic Release for Switching Device Space Optimization

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing switching devices have limited installation space, restricting the number of additional modules that can be used for functions like shunt and undervoltage releases, and current solutions do not allow for flexible integration of these functions with electronically controllable triggers.

Innovation Solution

An electronically controllable tripping device with a magnetic release having an adjustable function, controlled by an electronic release control, integrates A and/or U release functions into the E release, allowing for flexible use of installation space and enabling the device to operate as E, A, or U release depending on set conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If additional modules (A-release or U-release) are added to expand functionality, then the release function is improved, but the installation space is exceeded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverelease functionVSAvoidinstallation space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the E-release, A-release, and U-release functions into a single integrated magnetic release unit. The electronic release control unit integrates with the magnetic release to provide multiple release functions (electronic control, shunt trip, and undervoltage protection) within one compact structure, eliminating the need for separate modules and thus resolving the space constraint while maintaining functional versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic release is designed as a universal component that can perform multiple functions: electronic control (E-release), shunt trip (A-release), and undervoltage protection (U-release). The release control unit can be configured to implement different release functions depending on the application requirements, allowing a single device to replace multiple specialized modules and optimize installation space

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate modules are used for A-release and U-release, then the release function is improved, but the device complexity is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverelease functionVSAvoidmodule quantity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the control logic for E-release, A-release, and U-release into a single electronic release control unit. This integrated control unit manages all release functions through unified circuitry and control logic, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining the ability to perform multiple release functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The electronic release control unit is designed as a universal controller that can operate in different modes (E-release, A-release, U-release) depending on configuration. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized control modules, reducing device complexity while preserving full functional capability across different release types

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

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

This solution allows for more efficient use of installation space by integrating multiple release functions into a single module, enhancing flexibility and functionality of switching devices by enabling them to perform different release functions based on electronic control settings.

Implementation Method 1

the magnetic field of which de-excites the magnetic field of a permanent magnet, so that an armature held thereby can be pressed into a release position by a spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the magnetic field of which de-excites the magnetic field of a permanent magnet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP2881966B1Release device for a switching device and switching device
Publication Date: 2016.06.22 EATON ELECTRICAL IP
  • EP2881966B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2881966B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The invention relates to a release device for a switching device with an electronically controllable release (10) which has a magnetic release (12) with adjustable release function, and an electronic release control (14) which controls the electronically controllable release depending on a set release function.