Remote Circuit Breaker Manual Reset Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remotely operated circuit breakers often experience premature failure due to excessive operational cycles, and they cannot be manually reset to the 'closed' position if DC power to the solenoid is lost, especially when in the 'remote open' state.
Innovation Solution
A circuit breaker design featuring a linkage assembly and a manual reset mechanism that allows the breaker to be manually reset to the 'closed' position even if power to the remote actuator is lost, using a solenoid with a plunger and permanent magnet, and a handle mechanism to override the solenoid's biasing force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a circuit breaker is designed for frequent remote operation, then the operational cycles increase, but the circuit breaker experiences premature failure due to excessive operational cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the remote actuation function from the main circuit breaker mechanism by introducing a solenoid-operated linkage assembly. This segmentation allows the circuit breaker to be remotely operated without subjecting the entire mechanism to frequent operational stress, as the solenoid and linkage can be designed to handle the additional cycles independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The solenoid acts as an intermediary device between the remote control signal and the circuit breaker mechanism. It converts electrical signals into mechanical motion through the linkage assembly, enabling remote operation without directly stressing the main circuit breaker components.
2Reliability
If a solenoid with permanent magnet is used to maintain the breaker in remote open state, then safety is improved by preventing unintended closing, but the breaker cannot be manually reset if DC power is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static latched state to a dynamic resettable state. The reset mechanism allows the operator to override the permanent magnet's biasing force and manually move the linkage assembly, enabling the breaker to be reset even when DC power is lost and the solenoid cannot maintain the open position.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual reset mechanism empowers the operator to service the system independently when power is lost. By providing a mechanical means to override the solenoid's biasing force, the system allows self-service resetting without requiring external power assistance.
3Extent of automation
If the solenoid biasing force is used to hold the breaker open, then remote operation control is improved, but the handle mechanism cannot override the solenoid to manually trip or reset the breaker
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage assembly is designed with features that preliminary counteract the solenoid's biasing force during manual operation. The mechanical design allows the handle mechanism to overcome the permanent magnet's force when needed, ensuring that manual tripping and resetting operations can succeed despite the solenoid's holding force.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic switching between automated solenoid control and manual handle operation. The linkage assembly is designed to respond to either control method, enabling the operator to choose the appropriate mode based on operational needs and system state.
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
This design extends the operational life of the circuit breaker to approximately 200,000 cycles without increasing production costs and provides enhanced safety by allowing manual override of remote attempts to re-close the breaker, preventing hazardous conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A remote actuator is moveable between an on position and an off position... The remote actuator comprises a solenoid comprising a plunger
Implementation Method 2
A manual reset mechanism is provided that, upon actuation when power has been lost to the remote actuator when the remote actuator is in the off position, moves the remote actuator to the on position
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit breaker having a movable contact arm for opening and closing the circuit which is controlled separately by a circuit breaker mechanism for circuit protection and by a switch lever mechanism which does not require actuation of the circuit breaker mechanism to function. The switch lever may also be activated remotely by a remote actuator, for example, a solenoid. A manual reset mechanism is provided so that, actuation of which, when power has been lost to the remote actuator when the remote actuator is in the off position, moves the remote actuator to the on position, thereby resetting the circuit to the closed state.