Integrated Power Cable Switching for Safer Factory Electrification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Supplying electrical power in manufacturing facilities is challenging due to routing concerns, the number of cables required, and safety issues, with existing solutions addressing these concerns individually rather than comprehensively.
Innovation Solution
An electrical power cable with integrated power control features, including switches and relays, and an electrification arrangement using a power supply bus with smart connectors for integrated control, protection, and communication, simplifying routing and enhancing safety by enabling direct control and monitoring of electrical power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional separate solutions are used for routing, power control, and safety, then each function can be addressed individually, but the overall system complexity and number of cables increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate functions (power transmission, power control, and safety features) into a single integrated electrical power cable. The cable incorporates switches and relays directly within its structure, eliminating the need for separate control cables and devices, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical power cable is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it transmits electrical power, controls power delivery through integrated switches, and provides safety features. This multi-functional design replaces what previously required multiple separate components, reducing the number of cables needed while increasing adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If switches and relays are integrated into the cable, then power control is performed directly through the cable simplifying routing, but the cable structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Switches and relays are merged directly into the cable structure, allowing power control to be performed through the cable itself rather than requiring external control devices. This integration simplifies routing and operation while the internal complexity is contained within the cable housing.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If electrical contacts are isolated from electrical power when not in use, then safety is improved preventing accidental contact, but the switching mechanism adds complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The switches are designed to automatically isolate electrical contacts from electrical power before any potential harmful contact can occur. This preliminary isolation action ensures safety is maintained without requiring complex additional protection mechanisms, as the dangerous state is prevented before it can affect users.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical power cable is provided with two ends and an elongated length therebetween. The cable includes one or more conductors for conducting electrical power from a power source to an electrical load. One end includes a switch and a relay to provide electrical power to the electrical load and to disconnect an electrical contact from the power conductor.