Remote Bus Plug Actuation for Safe Power Distribution Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bus plug systems require manual interaction, which is unsafe and inefficient when bus plugs are inaccessible or numerous, as operators must physically interact with each plug to monitor or control energization, posing risks and inefficiencies in power distribution.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution system with bus plugs featuring an electrical switch, actuator, and communication module that allows remote control and monitoring through a remote application, enabling operators to control energization from a distance using a communication module that interacts with the actuator to move the control knob of the electrical switch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If operators manually interact with bus plugs at physical sites, then direct control and monitoring is achieved, but safety risks increase and operational efficiency decreases when bus plugs are inaccessible or numerous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an actuator as an intermediary device that couples to the control knob of the electrical switch. The actuator can be operated remotely via communication module, mediating between the operator and the bus plug switch mechanism. This eliminates the need for direct manual interaction with inaccessible bus plugs while maintaining control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated actuation system. The actuator, controlled through communication protocols from remote devices, substitutes for direct mechanical manipulation of the control knob. This mechanical substitution enables remote operation while improving safety and efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If operators physically interact with each bus plug, then individual control is achieved, but time consumption increases when multiple bus plugs are employed
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator design provides universal applicability across multiple bus plug configurations. A single actuator type can couple to control knobs of various bus plugs, enabling standardized remote operation procedures. This universality allows operators to control multiple different bus plugs using the same remote interface and actuator mechanism, significantly reducing operational time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy or representation of the physical bus plug control interface through the communication module and remote application. Instead of physically visiting each bus plug location, operators interact with a digital interface that replicates control functionality. This virtual copying eliminates travel time and enables simultaneous or rapid sequential control of multiple bus plugs.
3Productivity
If manual control methods are used, then simple system structure is maintained, but operational efficiency decreases for remote or numerous bus plugs
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into distinct functional modules: the actuator mechanism, the communication module, and the remote application interface. This segmentation allows each component to be independently optimized and maintained while working together to achieve remote control. The modular structure improves productivity without creating excessive overall system complexity, as each segment performs a specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the communication module transmits status information from the bus plug and switch position back to the remote application. This feedback loop enables operators to verify control actions remotely, ensuring proper operation without physical inspection. The feedback capability enhances productivity by providing real-time system state information while adding only moderate complexity through standard communication protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
A power distribution system includes a bus plug having an electrical switch configured to selectively control energization of the bus plug. The bus plug includes an electrical switch having a control knob operable to selectively control energization of the bus plug, and an actuator having an actuator adaptor coupling that couples movement of the actuator to the control knob. The bus plug includes a partition wall separating the internal volume into a line side and a load side. The bus plug includes an external handle coupled to mechanical linkages, and an adaptor bracket fixed to at least one of the mechanical linkages and oriented to interact with the control knob. The bus plug includes an actuator operable to move the mechanical linkages. Methods of controlling energization of a bus plug with a remote application and communication module configured to operate an actuator are also provided.