MEMS Switch Assembly for Remote Power Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electric utility meters lack an efficient mechanism for remotely terminating or commencing power distribution, leading to costly and time-consuming on-site visits, and existing solid state switches suffer from power losses, heat buildup, and inability to eliminate fault currents.
Innovation Solution
A current control device utilizing a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) switch assembly with a series-parallel configuration, controlled by a microprocessor and switch driver circuit, which reduces power consumption and enables efficient switching with minimal heat generation and fault current interruption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional solid state switches are used for remote power distribution switching, then remote switching capability is achieved, but power losses and heat buildup occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional solid state electronic switches with a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) switch. The MEMS switch uses movable contacts that physically open and close to interrupt or establish electrical current flow, eliminating the resistive power losses inherent in solid state switches. The switch includes a substrate with first and second contacts, and a movable contact that can bridge between them under actuation, providing near-zero resistance when closed and complete isolation when open.
2Extent of automation
If traditional solid state switches are used for remote power distribution switching, then remote switching capability is achieved, but heat buildup occurs within the meter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional solid state electronic switches with a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) switch. The MEMS switch uses movable contacts that physically open and close to interrupt or establish electrical current flow, eliminating the resistive power losses inherent in solid state switches. The switch includes a substrate with first and second contacts, and a movable contact that can bridge between them under actuation, providing near-zero resistance when closed and complete isolation when open.
3Extent of automation
If traditional solid state switches are used for remote power distribution switching, then remote switching capability is achieved, but fault currents cannot be eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional solid state electronic switches with a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) switch. The MEMS switch uses movable contacts that physically open and close to interrupt or establish electrical current flow, eliminating the resistive power losses inherent in solid state switches. The switch includes a substrate with first and second contacts, and a movable contact that can bridge between them under actuation, providing near-zero resistance when closed and complete isolation when open.
4Extent of automation
If a mechanical switch with two-way communication device is used for remote switching, then remote power distribution switching is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional solid state electronic switches with a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) switch. The MEMS switch uses movable contacts that physically open and close to interrupt or establish electrical current flow, eliminating the resistive power losses inherent in solid state switches. The switch includes a substrate with first and second contacts, and a movable contact that can bridge between them under actuation, providing near-zero resistance when closed and complete isolation when open.
5Reliability
If technician on-site visits are used for power distribution switching, then reliable switching is achieved, but time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional solid state electronic switches with a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) switch. The MEMS switch uses movable contacts that physically open and close to interrupt or establish electrical current flow, eliminating the resistive power losses inherent in solid state switches. The switch includes a substrate with first and second contacts, and a movable contact that can bridge between them under actuation, providing near-zero resistance when closed and complete isolation when open.
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 MEMS switch assembly allows for efficient, remote, and cost-effective switching of electrical power, reducing power losses and heat buildup, while effectively interrupting fault currents without arcing, thus enhancing the operational efficiency and longevity of the meter.
Implementation Method 1
The switch assembly includes a first movable contact and a second movable contact, each having a fixed contact and a movable contact. The movable contacts are actuated by electrostatic force to switch between a conducting state and a non-conducting state.
Data Source
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AI summary
A current control device includes at least one line socket configured to couple to a first power system, at least one load socket configured to couple to a second power system, and at least one micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) switching device (214) coupled between the at least one line socket and the at least one load socket, the at least one MEMS switching device configured to selectably couple the first power system to the second power system.