Remote Switch Operation Plate and Wire Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical switches, such as loadbreak switches, pose safety concerns due to the need for direct operator intervention, which can expose personnel to arc flashes and other hazards, especially when using heavy telescoping hot sticks for manipulation.
Innovation Solution
A device and system for remotely operating switches, comprising a plate with bends and passageways, a connecting member, and fasteners, which allows for the attachment to a switch handle, enabling remote manipulation through wire members and indicators, reducing operator exposure to hazardous conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional telescoping hot sticks are used to manipulate the switch handle, then the operator can remotely operate the switch, but the device becomes heavy and difficult to engage with the target handle
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple components: a lightweight connecting member that attaches to the switch handle, a separate plate with passageways, and wire members that transmit force. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, resulting in a much lighter overall system compared to a single telescoping hot stick.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate components (connecting member, plate, wire members) that mediate between the operator and the switch handle. These intermediaries transmit the operating force while allowing the operator to remain at a safe distance, eliminating the need for a heavy direct-contact hot stick.
2Ease of operation
If the operator positions directly in front of the electrical device to manipulate the switch, then the switch can be easily operated, but the operator is exposed to arc flash and other dangerous conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting member, plate, and wire members serve as intermediaries that allow the operator to manipulate the switch from a remote position. The wire members transmit the mechanical force through the cabinet structure, enabling safe remote operation without direct positioning in front of the electrical device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct mechanical interaction (operator hand on handle) with an indirect mechanical transmission system (wire members passing through passageways). This substitution allows the operating force to be transmitted through the cabinet structure rather than requiring direct access to the switch handle.
3Device complexity
If a simple attachment mechanism is used to connect the device to the switch handle, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of attachment may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The plate and connecting member are designed to work together as an integrated attachment system. The plate with its specific passageways combines with the connecting member to create a reliable attachment mechanism that distributes forces across multiple points, achieving both simplicity and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems, methods, and kits for remotely operating a switch are described herein. An example embodiment of a system for remotely operating a switch comprises a plate, a connecting member, a first fastener, a second fastener, a first attachment member, a second attachment member, a first wire member, a second wire member, and a pulling member. The plate has a body that defines a first bend and a second bend and is releasably attached to the handle of a switch. During use, an operator utilizes the first and second wire members to moved the switch between an open state and a closed state.