MEMS Switch Over-Current Protection with Remote Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional circuit breakers and contactors are large, complex, and expensive, with slow switching speeds and issues like arc formation and leakage current, making them unsuitable for remote operability and high-speed applications.
Innovation Solution
A remote operable over-current protection apparatus using micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) switches with integrated control circuitry and arc suppression circuitry, capable of rapid switching and arc-less operation, facilitated by communication connections for control signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If conventional electromechanical circuit breakers are used, then over-current protection is provided, but the device size is large and switching speed is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional slow mechanical switching mechanisms with micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) switches that utilize electrostatic forces for actuation. This substitution enables significantly faster switching speeds while reducing the overall device size and complexity, as MEMS switches can transition states in microseconds rather than milliseconds.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operating parameters by using electrostatic actuation instead of electromagnetic actuation. This parameter change allows the switching mechanism to operate at higher speeds with lower power consumption and reduced mechanical inertia, directly addressing the contradiction between switching speed and device complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional electromechanical contactors are used, then switching capability is provided, but arc formation occurs between contacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the arc formation problem by designing the MEMS switch to open contacts in a controlled manner that minimizes arc generation. The rapid opening speed of MEMS switches allows the contacts to separate before significant arcing can occur, effectively taking out the harmful arc formation from the switching process while maintaining reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention converts the potential harm of arcing into a benefit by using the rapid switching capability of MEMS to interrupt current flow before arcs can sustain themselves. The fast actuation time transforms what would be a harmful prolonged arc into a brief, controlled discharge that does not compromise reliability.
3Speed
If solid-state switches are used, then switching speed is fast, but leakage current occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the switching function by combining the fast switching capability of solid-state devices with the arc-free interruption of mechanical contacts. The MEMS switch structure separates the control function (electrostatic actuation) from the interruption function (physical contact separation), achieving both fast speed and minimal leakage current by utilizing the unique properties of electrostatically actuated micro-switches.
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
Enables efficient, fast, and remote-controlled interruption of electrical currents with minimal arcing and heat generation, improving safety and performance in circuit breaker applications.
Implementation Method 1
micro electromechanical system (MEMS) switches with integrated control circuitry and arc suppression circuitry, capable of rapid switching and arc-less operation
Implementation Method 2
control circuitry integrally arranged on a current path... capable of rapid switching and arc-less operation
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a remote operable over-current protection apparatus. The apparatus includes control circuitry integrally arranged on a current path and a micro electromechanical system (MEMS) switch disposed on the current path, the MEMS switch responsive to the control circuitry to facilitate the interruption of an electrical current passing through the current path. The apparatus further includes a communication connection in signal connection with the control circuitry such that the control circuitry is responsive to a control signal on the communication connection to control a state of the MEMS switch.