Portable Motorized Racking Tool Remote Arc Flash Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a remotely operable, battery-powered portable motorized racking tool that can securely attach to metal surfaces around circuit breakers without requiring attachment to a wall outlet, enabling safe installation, removal, and testing of electrical equipment within hazardous arc flash zones.
Innovation Solution
A framed robotic tool with magnetically shielded housings and a remote switch operator that allows operators to control the tool from a safe distance, using a motor and gear assembly to securely attach and detach electrical equipment, while providing power and control signals without the need for a wall outlet connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a racking tool is used inside the arc flash hazard boundary, then electrical equipment can be installed or removed, but the operator is exposed to hazardous arc flash risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote switch operator as an intermediary device that allows the operator to control the racking tool from outside the arc flash hazard boundary. The remote switch operator transmits control signals and power through a cable to the racking tool, enabling the operator to perform racking operations without direct physical contact with equipment inside the hazard zone, thus eliminating arc flash exposure while maintaining operational capability
2Power
If a motorized racking tool is powered by a wall outlet, then sufficient power is available for motor operation, but the tool requires connection to fixed infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the power supply universal by accepting both wall outlet connection and battery operation. The racking tool is designed with a dual power input capability: it can be powered by a wall outlet when fixed installation is available, or by a removable battery pack when portability is required. This multi-functionality in power supply enables the tool to adapt to different work environments without compromising motor performance
3Force
If a non-motorized racking tool is used, then the tool is simpler and more portable, but insufficient force is available for secure attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical racking system with a motorized system that uses an electric motor to provide the necessary force for secure attachment and detachment of electrical equipment. The motor delivers controlled rotational force through a gear assembly to the racking mechanism, enabling reliable engagement with circuit breakers and switchgear while maintaining operational control through the remote switch operator
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 tool allows for safe operation outside the arc flash hazard boundary, reducing the need for protective equipment, minimizing exposure to hazards, and enabling efficient installation, removal, and testing of electrical equipment with reduced liability and increased operational safety.
Implementation Method 1
magnetically shielded housings
Data Source
AI summary
A portable motorized racking tool and a method for installing, removing and testing electrical equipment is described herein. A circuit breaker having a frame can be attached to a metal surface around the electrical equipment with magnets. The frame can support a solenoid with a plunger, a motor control for operating a motor with a gear assembly that rotates a tool first in one direction, then in a second direction, while the operator controls the framed tool by using a remote switch operator. The remote switch operator can supply power and signals to the framed tool, while the operator can maintain a position outside an arc flash hazard zone.