Remote Circuit Breaker Operation via Portable Power Umbilical
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrically operated circuit breakers with electromagnetic mechanisms cannot be remotely operated when control power is lost, especially when the breaker is in an inaccessible location, necessitating a solution for remote actuation.
Innovation Solution
A remote operation system comprising a power supply, control device, power cable, and control cable that establishes an umbilical connection to the circuit breaker, allowing operation from a distance using a toggle to select power sources, enabling both local and remote control of magnetically actuated circuit breakers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If circuit breakers are installed in inaccessible locations for safety or operational reasons, then safety and operational flexibility are improved, but the ability to provide control power and operate the breakers remotely deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a portable power supply unit and control device as intermediaries between the operator and the circuit breaker. This portable unit can be transported to inaccessible locations and establishes a temporary power and control connection, enabling remote operation without requiring permanent infrastructure at the breaker location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the control functionality into separate portable components (power supply unit, control device, cables) that can be independently transported and deployed. This segmentation allows the control system to be moved to different locations as needed, maintaining operability regardless of breaker location.
2Reliability
If circuit breakers with electromagnetic mechanisms are used, then operational reliability is improved, but the ability to operate remotely during control power loss deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The portable power supply unit serves itself by containing its own power source (battery or generator), eliminating dependence on external control power infrastructure. This self-contained design enables the unit to operate independently during power outages and provide both power and control signals to the circuit breaker.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by bringing the portable power supply and control device to the location before operation is needed. The unit is positioned and connected in advance, ensuring control capability is established before any power loss or operational need arises.
3Reliability
If control power is provided locally at the circuit breaker location, then operational control is maintained, but the ability to operate from a distance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from local spatial control (operator at breaker location) to remote control by introducing temporal and portable spatial dimensions. The portable control unit can be positioned at various distances while maintaining control through extended cables, effectively adding a dimension of flexible spatial arrangement to the control system.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for electrically operating a circuit breaker remotely and during period of a power outage is provided. The system has a power source, power cable, control unit, control device, and a circuit breaker port for connecting the power source and control unit to the circuit breaker, for actuation of the circuit breaker operating mechanism.