Sliding Block Micro-Switch Assembly for Wear-Fault Trip Reset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional circuit interrupters face challenges in reliably disconnecting from electrical power during faults, particularly when mechanical or electrical components fail due to age or wear, and lack efficient self-testing mechanisms to ensure proper functioning.
Innovation Solution
A sliding block module with a block seat, sliding block, and arm assemblies that include conductive components and torsion springs, allowing for robust and stable tripping and resetting mechanisms, along with a self-test feature to ensure proper functioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mechanical or electrical circuit interrupter components are used, then the device can perform basic circuit interruption, but the reliability decreases when components fail due to age or wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-test mechanism that performs preliminary actions before the main circuit interruption function. The micro-switch assembly tests the tripped state and mechanical components beforehand to ensure they will function properly when needed, detecting potential failures due to age or wear before they compromise reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit interrupter performs self-diagnosis and self-testing without external intervention. The micro-switch assembly automatically tests the tripped state and mechanical components, allowing the device to monitor its own health and detect component degradation due to age or wear
2Reliability
If a robust mechanical trip/reset assembly is provided to ensure reliable disconnection, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the circuit interrupter into distinct functional modules: the sliding block module for mechanical tripping, the micro-switch assembly for detection and self-testing, and the electrical components for circuit interruption. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall reliability without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The micro-switch assembly acts as an intermediary between the mechanical sliding block and the control system. It translates mechanical tripped states into electrical signals for self-testing and monitoring, providing a reliable interface that enhances system reliability without requiring complex direct mechanical-electrical integration
3Reliability
If self-test capability is added to ensure proper functioning, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the self-test function with the existing micro-switch assembly rather than adding a separate testing system. The micro-switch serves dual purposes: detecting the tripped state and enabling self-testing of the mechanical components, thereby improving reliability while minimizing the increase in device complexity
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
Ensures reliable disconnection from electrical power during faults and provides an efficient self-test capability, enhancing safety and functionality of circuit interrupters.
Implementation Method 1
The arm assembly may be biased to rotate inwardly toward the block seat and the sliding block
Data Source
AI summary
In one example, a sliding block module is provided. The sliding block module may include a block seat, a sliding block, and a first arm assembly. The sliding block may be at least partially disposed within the block seat, and may be configured to move vertically therein. The block seat and the first arm assembly may form a first hinge upon which the first arm assembly may rotate. The first arm assembly may include a first conductive component. The first arm assembly may be biased to rotate inwardly toward the block seat and the sliding block. The sliding block module may be utilized as part of mechanical trip/reset assembly of, for example, a circuit interrupter.