Optical Voltage Threshold Detection for DC Circuit Breakers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing voltage detection apparatuses for DC circuit breakers lack a comparison function to determine the action logic of circuit breakers and are susceptible to damage from high voltages, requiring complex structures and redundant processes.

Innovation Solution

A voltage detection apparatus using a high-voltage arm with a precision resistor and a low-voltage arm with a capacitor charging/discharging module, signal indication, threshold selection, control, and signal transmission modules, employing optical-fiber emitting diodes to transmit signals and resistors to compare input voltage with a threshold, while being resistant to electromagnetic interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a common voltage detection apparatus is used to detect voltage, then the detection function is provided, but the apparatus cannot compare voltage values and requires complex external processing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure complexityVSAvoidcomparison function
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the voltage detection function and voltage comparison function into a single integrated apparatus. The detection module measures the voltage value while the comparison module simultaneously compares it with the threshold value, eliminating the need for separate external processing systems and reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The voltage detection apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it can detect voltage values, compare them with preset thresholds, and directly output comparison results. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate detection and comparison systems, simplifying the overall structure while providing comprehensive voltage monitoring capabilities.

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

2Reliability

If direct electrical connection is used for signal transmission, then the transmission process is simple, but the low-power device is damaged by high voltage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice protectionVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an optical fiber as an intermediary medium for signal transmission between the high-voltage detection environment and the low-power processing system. The optical fiber converts electrical signals to optical signals, providing electrical isolation while transmitting the voltage information, thus protecting the low-power device from high voltage damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Loss of information

If electrical signals are transmitted through cables, then the transmission is straightforward, but the signals are affected by electromagnetic interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal accuracyVSAvoidtransmission system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional electrical signal transmission system with an optical signal transmission system. By converting electrical signals to optical signals for transmission through optical fibers, the system eliminates susceptibility to electromagnetic interference while maintaining signal integrity and transmission efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Productivity

If voltage comparison is performed by upper computer processing, then the detection function is provided, but redundant processes and complicated structures are unavoidable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the voltage monitoring system into distinct functional modules: a detection module for measuring voltage, a comparison module for comparing with thresholds, and a signal output module for reporting results. This modular segmentation enables real-time local processing without requiring continuous upper computer intervention, improving response speed and reducing redundant processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Accurately and rapidly determines whether a high voltage exceeds a preset value, protecting the device from damage and transmitting signals without interference, enabling reliable circuit breaker operation.

Implementation Method 1

the signal indication module includes an optical-fiber emitting diode V1

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight Emitting Diode: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

the signal transmission module includes one optical-fiber emitting diode V2 and one optical-fiber emitting diode V3 that are connected in series, and once the transistor switch VT1 is turned on, a current pulse passes through the optical-fiber emitting diode V2 and the optical-fiber emitting diode V3, and an optical pulse appears in an optical-fiber cable as an output signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight Emitting Diode: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 3

the optical-fiber emitting diode V1 and the voltage stabilizing diode VD of the signal indication module are connected in series

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiode: Diode

Data Source

PatentUS12517157B2Voltage detection apparatus and method for determining whether high voltage at input terminal exceeds preset value
Publication Date: 2026.01.06 HEFEI INSTITUTE OF PHYSICAL SCIENCE CHINESE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES
  • US12517157B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a voltage detection apparatus and method for determining whether a high voltage at an input terminal exceeds a preset value. The device includes a high-voltage arm and a low-voltage arm, and the low-voltage arm includes a capacitor charging/discharging module, a signal indication module, a threshold selection module, a control module, a signal transmission module, and a signal processing module. The high-voltage arm includes a precision resistor R1, the capacitor charging/discharging module includes a charging/discharging capacitor C1 and a diode VD2, the signal indication module includes an optical-fiber emitting diode V1 and a voltage stabilizing diode VD, the threshold selection module includes four parallel resistors and corresponding switch contacts S1, S2, S3, and S4 thereof, the control module includes a comparator D1 and a transistor switch VT1 controlled by D1, and the signal transmission module includes one optical-fiber emitting diode V2 and one optical-fiber emitting diode V3 connected in series; the signal processing module is an upper computer or an optical signal acquisition system. The apparatus in the present disclosure has a long-term high voltage resistance, detects a high voltage at an input terminal, compares the same with a threshold voltage, and transmits and displays a comparison result, so as to provide a logical basis of determination for reliable operation of a circuit breaker.