Magnetic Non-Contact Switch Using Transformer Saturation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current switches, including contact switches and active devices, introduce undesired impedance and complexity in power circuits, leading to power losses and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic switch comprising a plurality of transformers connected through a path with control windings, where direct current is sent into the control windings to saturate the cores, minimizing energy transfer between the transformers and the path, thereby reducing impedance and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If contact switches or active devices are used to control current, then switching function is achieved, but impedance is added to the power circuit causing power loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact switches and active electronic devices with a magnetic field-based switching system using transformers. The switching action is achieved through magnetic coupling and decoupling between primary and secondary windings, eliminating the need for physical contacts or active semiconductor devices that introduce impedance and power loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the control circuit and the power circuit. By using transformers with primary and secondary windings coupled through a magnetic core, the switching function is achieved indirectly through magnetic coupling, preventing direct electrical contact and the associated impedance losses.
2Reliability
If contact switches or active devices are used to control current, then switching function is achieved, but complexity is added to the power circuit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical switch assemblies and active electronic control circuits with a simpler transformer-based magnetic switching system. The transformer structure with windings and magnetic core provides the switching function through magnetic coupling, eliminating the need for complex contact mechanisms or semiconductor control circuits.
3Loss of energy
If transformers are used with direct current in control windings, then energy transfer is minimized through saturation, but additional current sources are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical state of the transformer cores by introducing direct current to the control windings, driving the cores into magnetic saturation. This parameter change (from unsaturated to saturated state) effectively minimizes energy transfer between windings, achieving the switching function through magnetic state control.
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 effectively reduces power losses and simplifies power circuit switching by using saturated transformers to minimize energy transfer, enhancing efficiency and reducing unwanted impedance.
Implementation Method 1
Direct current is sent into the control winding for each of a portion of the plurality of transformers to saturate the core for the each of the portion of the plurality of transformers such that a transfer of energy between the core for the each of the portion of the plurality of transformers and the path is substantially absent.
Data Source
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AI summary
A switch comprising a plurality of transformers and a path comprising a number of wires. Each of the plurality of transformers comprises a core and a control winding. The path is configured to connect the plurality of transformers to each other. Non-direct current flows through the path. Direct current is sent into the control winding for each of a portion of the plurality of transformers to saturate the core for the each of the portion of the plurality of transformers such that a transfer of energy between the core for the each of the portion of the plurality of transformers and the path is substantially absent.