Magnetic Shield Contact Structure for Faster Arc Extinction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing contact devices generate electric arcs when the fixed and movable contacts separate, leading to repeated arc generation and prolonged arc extinction times.
Innovation Solution
A contact apparatus with a magnetic shield and permanent magnets arranged to minimize the movement of electric arc end points, reducing the likelihood of arc extension and enhancing arc extinction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional contact device structure is used, then the device is simple in structure, but electric arcs are generated repeatedly and arc extinction time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic shield is introduced as an intermediary component between the magnet and the contacts. The magnetic shield includes a first shield portion, a second shield portion, and a joining portion that connects them. This intermediary structure directs and confines the magnetic field to improve arc extinction while maintaining a manageable device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic shield is segmented into multiple portions (first shield portion, second shield portion, and joining portion) that can be separately manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows for optimized magnetic field distribution and easier manufacturing compared to a single monolithic structure.
2Reliability
If the magnetic field is extended to improve arc control, then arc extinction is enhanced, but the magnetic field may affect adjacent components
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic shield portions are positioned and shaped to create localized magnetic field zones. The first shield portion is arranged near the first contact and the second shield portion near the second contact, creating concentrated magnetic fields at specific locations where arc control is needed, rather than a broad diffuse field that would interfere with adjacent components.
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
Reduces the likelihood of repeated electric arc generation and shortens the time required to extinguish arcs by directing the arc within a controlled magnetic field.
Implementation Method 1
a first magnet having a first surface facing the first fixed contact, the first movable contact, and the first shield portion
Implementation Method 2
there are cases where an electric arc is generated between the fixed contact and the movable contact when the fixed contact and the movable contact separate from each other
Implementation Method 3
a magnetic shield configured to move in conjunction with the movable contactor and including a first shield portion, a second shield portion, and a joining portion joining the first shield portion and the second shield portion together
Data Source
AI summary
This contact apparatus includes: a fixed contact; a movable contactor including a movable contact facing the fixed contact; a magnetic shield configured to move in conjunction with the movable contactor and including a first shield portion, a second shield portion, and a joining portion joining the first shield portion and the second shield portion together; and a magnet having a first surface facing the fixed contact, the movable contact, and the first shield portion. The fixed contact, the movable contact, and the first shield portion are arranged in the following order: the fixed contact; the movable contact; and the first shield portion. The first shield portion includes a protrusion extending along the first surface of the magnet.