Resettable Current Interruption Module for Legacy Electrical Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors in medium-voltage or high-voltage systems lack a resettable current interruption device, requiring replacement after activation, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A current interruption module with a resettable switching apparatus, including a vacuum interrupter and a switch control mechanism, that can be attached to a legacy electrical connector to provide resettable current interruption functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fuse element is used in the electrical connector, then current interruption is achieved, but the connector becomes unusable after activation
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is divided into two functional parts: a legacy electrical connector containing the non-resettable fuse element, and a separate current interruption module containing the resettable switching apparatus. This segmentation allows the fuse element to provide reliable current interruption while the separate module provides resettable functionality, extending the overall service life of the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The resettable switching apparatus acts as an intermediary between the legacy electrical connector and the load. It connects to the current path of the electrical connector and provides resettable current interruption, allowing the original fuse element to remain in place while adding the capability to reset after fault conditions.
2Reliability
If a non-resettable fuse element is used, then current interruption is reliable, but replacement is required after activation which is costly and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of discarding the entire electrical connector after fuse activation, the invention allows the legacy connector with the fuse element to be retained and recovered for continued use. The resettable switching apparatus is the component that is reset and reused, eliminating the need to replace expensive electrical connectors and reducing operational downtime.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If a resettable switching apparatus is added to the electrical connector, then operational life is extended, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into a simple legacy electrical connector and a separate current interruption module. This segmentation keeps each component relatively simple while the combination provides extended service life through the resettable functionality of the module.
Solution Approach 2:
The current interruption module serves multiple functions: it provides resettable current interruption, extends the service life of the electrical connector system, and can be detached and replaced independently. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing multiple benefits from a single added component.
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 repeated operation after fault conditions, reducing maintenance costs and extending the life of electrical connectors by allowing the module to be reset rather than replaced.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator may include an electromagnetic actuator and a push rod, and the push rod may be connected to the electromagnetic actuator and the moveable contact.
Implementation Method 2
The resettable switching apparatus may include a vacuum interrupter.
Data Source
AI summary
A current interruption module includes: a resettable switching apparatus associated with operating states, the operating states including at least a first operating state that prevents current flow in the switching apparatus and a second operating state that allows current flow in the switching apparatus; a switch control configured to control the operating state of the switching apparatus; an electrical interface configured to electrically connect the switching apparatus to a load; and a connection interface configured to electrically connect the resettable switching apparatus to a current path of an separate and distinct electrical connector and to mechanically connect the current interruption module to the separate and distinct electrical connector.