Modular On-Load Tap-Changer for Compact Reliable Tap Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing on-load tap-changers have a complex and space-consuming structure, which is expensive and requires significant modifications for switching between winding taps.

Innovation Solution

A modular on-load tap-changer design with a main and auxiliary path, allowing modules to be configured as transition resistors, reactors, or bridges, enabling flexible switching principles without altering the basic structure, and enabling quick activation times.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a traditional diverter switch with vacuum interrupters and transition resistors is used, then reliable switching between winding taps is achieved, but the device becomes complex and space-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching reliabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the diverter switch and selector into a single integrated module, eliminating the need for separate vacuum interrupters and transition resistors. The moving contact serves dual functions as both diverter switch contact and selector contact, significantly reducing structural complexity while maintaining switching reliability through the inherent design of the integrated module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of operation

If a traditional cylindrical vessel with multiplicity of bars and selector arms is used, then winding tap switching is achieved, but the device requires a lot of space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetap switching capabilityVSAvoiddevice footprint
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the traditional complex structure into a compact integrated module where the moving contact can selectively engage with stationary contacts on different bars. This segmentation allows the switching function to be achieved in a compact arrangement, reducing the device footprint from a large cylindrical vessel to a concentrated modular unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a two-dimensional arrangement of selector arms on a plane to a three-dimensional configuration where the moving contact can access stationary contacts at different levels and positions. This dimensional change enables compact space utilization while maintaining full tap switching capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If a gear mechanism connecting diverter switch and selector is used, then coordinated switching is achieved, but the device becomes expensive and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoordinated switchingVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the diverter switch and selector operations into a single integrated module, eliminating the need for a separate gear mechanism to coordinate their movements. The moving contact's motion inherently coordinates both switching functions, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining reliable coordinated operation through the integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Adaptability or versatility

If a modular design with main and auxiliary paths is used, then versatility and compactness are improved, but the switching principle becomes more complex to implement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching principle flexibilityVSAvoidimplementation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal integrated module design that can operate with different switching principles (resistor-type high-speed switching or reactor-type switching) by simply changing the configuration of the main and auxiliary paths. The moving contact and stationary contacts are designed to accommodate multiple switching modes, providing versatility without requiring separate complex mechanisms for each principle.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12469652B2On-load tap-changer
Publication Date: 2025.11.11 MASCHFAB REINHAUSEN GMBH
  • US12469652B2 patent drawing
  • US12469652B2 patent drawing
  • US12469652B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An on-load tap-changer includes: a main path with a first connection; and an auxiliary path with a second connection. One module is configured be connected to each of the first and second connections.