Modular Surge Protector Circuit Layout for High-Voltage Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surge protective devices (SPDs) face challenges in achieving high-voltage protection without increasing size due to limited installation space, and integrating backup overcurrent protection while maintaining compactness and reducing installation complexity.
Innovation Solution
The SPD design incorporates flexible wiring within the base part to allow series and parallel connections of multiple protective circuit components, enabling more current flow and higher operating voltage, with integrated remote monitoring and modular flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the thickness of the MOV is increased to achieve high-voltage protection, then the protection performance is improved, but the size of the SPD increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the protective circuit into multiple components (MOV and at least one additional protective component) that can be connected in series or parallel configurations. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high-voltage protection through series connections without requiring a single thick MOV, thus maintaining compact size while improving protection performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional solution (increasing MOV thickness) to a multi-dimensional solution by adding protective components in series and parallel arrangements. This dimensional change in circuit topology enables achieving high-voltage equivalence requirements without proportionally increasing the physical size of the SPD.
2Reliability
If backup overcurrent protection is added to avoid abnormal operating conditions, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the backup overcurrent protection function with the existing protective circuit components by integrating fuses or thermal-magnetic circuit breakers into the same module housing. This merging eliminates the need for separate backup protection devices and their associated wiring, thereby improving reliability while reducing device complexity and installation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective circuit components are designed to serve multiple functions: overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection, and thermal protection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated backup protection devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive protection against abnormal operating conditions.
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
This design enhances protection performance, reduces installation complexity, and lowers implementation costs by optimizing space utilization and integrating backup overcurrent protection within the existing installation constraints.
Implementation Method 1
voltage-limiting element - zinc oxide varistor (MOV)
Implementation Method 2
The slide is preloaded by a spring element in such a manner that the sloping surfaces are non-positively engaged with each other
Data Source
Figure 1~2a
Figure 2b~3a
Figure 3b~3c
AI summary
The present invention provides a surge protective device and a corresponding module. According to an aspect of the invention a surge protective device (1) comprises a base part (2) which is arranged to be fixed on a mounting rail. The base part (2) includes at least a first elongated plug-in section (P1) including at least a first to fourth mating contacts (M1-M4). An elongated first module (PM1) is arranged in the first plug-in section (P1) and includes a first and a second protective circuit component (OV1, OV2) adjacently arranged in longitudinal direction and fixedly mechanically connected to each other. The first module (PM1) includes at least a first to fourth contact pin (C1-C4) inserted in the first to fourth mating contacts (M1-M4), wherein the first and second contact pin (C1, (2) are electrically connected to the first protective circuit component (OV1) and the third and fourth contact pin (C3, C4) are electrically connected to the second protective circuit component (OV2). The base part (2) includes first wiring means (W1) for electrically connecting at least two mating contacts (M2, M3) of the first plug-in section (P1).