Processor-Controlled On-Off Switch With Digital Line Protection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional miniature circuit breakers are inflexible and limited in their applications, lacking the ability to be easily controlled or adapted for various electrical protection functions.

Innovation Solution

A switchgear system with a processor that can receive control signals from external devices, such as smartphones or tablets, to remotely control ON-OFF switches, incorporating digital line protection circuits that use current and voltage measurements to determine when to trip, and featuring a bimetal-based thermal triggering mechanism for overload protection, along with a bus line for data transmission and evaluation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional miniature circuit breakers are used, then basic overcurrent protection is provided, but flexibility and adaptability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidcomplexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The circuit breaker is designed with a processor that can perform multiple functions: remote control via communication interfaces, digital line protection calculations, programmable tripping characteristics, and integration with external data processing devices. This multi-functionality transforms a simple switching device into an adaptive protection system that can serve various electrical protection needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The circuit breaker incorporates programmable tripping characteristics that can be adjusted through control signals from external devices. The processor can dynamically modify protection parameters, trip curves, and operating modes based on real-time conditions and user requirements, making the device adaptable rather than fixed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If remote control capability is added to enable flexible switching, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of operationVSAvoidcomplexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The processor acts as an intermediary between external control devices (smartphones, tablets, computers) and the circuit breaker's switching mechanism. It receives control signals through communication interfaces (WiFi, Bluetooth, wired connections), processes them, and executes the appropriate switching actions, thereby simplifying user interaction while managing the complexity internally.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical switching operations are replaced with electronic control through the processor and communication interfaces. The circuit breaker can be controlled remotely via digital signals, eliminating the need for physical presence at the device and enabling automated control scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If digital line protection with programmable functions is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprogrammable protection functionsVSAvoidmanufacturing

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Traditional mechanical bimetallic trip mechanisms are supplemented or replaced with electronic protection circuits controlled by the processor. Digital algorithms calculate tripping decisions based on current measurements and programmable characteristics, replacing complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with software-based protection logic that is more adaptable and easier to manufacture in standardized forms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables flexible and remote control of electrical switches, providing enhanced protection against overcurrent and short-circuit conditions, with programmable line protection functions and the ability to handle different voltage levels, improving the adaptability and efficiency of electrical protection systems.

Implementation Method 1

a bimetal-based thermal triggering mechanism for overload protection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal expansion: Thermal Expansion

Data Source

PatentEP3370245B1On-off switch and switching circuit

Publication Date: 2021.11.24 GORGELS ARNOLD P L M

Figure 1
Figure 2

AI summary

The disclosure relates to an on/off switch with an electronic switching device that can be switched between a first state ON and a second state OFF by means of a control signal, and a digital line protection circuit configured to perform a shutdown based on a line protection function when a threshold value is exceeded. Furthermore, a switching system with a processor and at least one on/off switch is disclosed, wherein the at least one on/off switch is data-connected to the processor.