Press Type Mechanical Switching Mechanism Free Tripping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional solid-state circuit breakers cannot meet the demand for free tripping of the mechanical switching mechanism, which requires maintaining the closing action after manual closing while still allowing for opening operations.

Innovation Solution

A press type mechanical switching mechanism is introduced, comprising a first and second mechanical contact, a first and second pressing member, and an electromagnetic assembly. This mechanism allows for switching between on and off states through simple pressing actions and achieves free tripping by unlocking the contact support member via the electromagnetic assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional mechanical switching mechanisms are used without power, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the capability for free tripping cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefree tripping capabilityVSAvoidmechanical structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical switching mechanism is divided into separate functional modules: a first pressing member for closing operation, a second pressing member for opening operation, and an electromagnetic assembly for free tripping. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function independently, enabling free tripping capability while keeping the overall structure manageable and manufacturable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The electromagnetic assembly serves multiple functions: it can trigger opening operation when the circuit needs protection, and it enables free tripping capability when the first pressing member is held pressed. The same electromagnetic assembly works in different operational contexts, providing versatility without proportionally increasing structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple pressing members and electromagnetic assembly are added to achieve free tripping, then the free tripping capability is achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefree tripping capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical interlocking mechanisms with an electromagnetic assembly for controlling the switching states. Instead of using purely mechanical springs and levers for all operations, the electromagnetic assembly provides controlled actuation that simplifies the mechanical structure and reduces manufacturing difficulty while achieving the desired free tripping capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The electromagnetic assembly acts as an intermediary between the control system and the mechanical switching components. It translates electrical signals into mechanical motion to actuate the contacts, simplifying the direct mechanical linkage requirements and making the overall system easier to manufacture and control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 press type mechanical switching mechanism enables reliable switching between closed and open states and achieves free tripping, enhancing the safety and operational flexibility of the circuit breaker.

Implementation Method 1

an electromagnetic assembly configured to drive the position limiting member to unlock the contact support member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS20250095929A1Press type mechanical switching mechanism and circuit breaker

Publication Date: 2025.03.20 SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC (CHINA) CO LTD

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a press type mechanical switching mechanism and a circuit breaker. The switching mechanism comprising: a first and a second mechanical contact capable of switching between an on state and an off state; a first pressing member configured to switch the first and second mechanical contacts from the off state to the on state in a case that the first and second mechanical contacts are in the off state and the first pressing member is pressed down; a second pressing member configured to switch the first and second mechanical contacts from the on state to the off state in a case that the first and second mechanical contacts are in the on state and the second pressing member is pressed down; an electromagnetic assembly configured to switch the first and second mechanical contacts from the on state to the off state in a case that the first and second mechanical contacts are in the on state and the first pressing member is not pressed down and in a case that the first and second mechanical contacts are in the on state and the first pressing member is kept pressed down.