Split Core Transformer With Rotatable Hinge for Confined Spaces

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing split core current sensing transformers face difficulties in installation and reassembly in crowded or limited spaces due to the need to align core portions, especially when insufficient room is available to open and maneuver the hinged portions.

Innovation Solution

A split core sensing transformer design featuring core portions that can be rotated relative to each other about two perpendicular axes, facilitated by a rotatable hinge mechanism, allowing for more efficient use of space and easier installation without disconnecting the conductor.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a hinged split core transformer is used to facilitate installation without disconnecting the conductor, then ease of installation is improved, but the device becomes too large to fit in crowded enclosures and alignment of core portions becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installationVSAvoidspace requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge mechanism enables the core portions to be dynamically positioned at various angles during installation, allowing the transformer to adapt to crowded enclosure spaces. The hinge allows the second core portion to be rotated relative to the first core portion, transforming the rigid structure into a flexible one that can fit through narrow access points while maintaining the split core configuration for easy installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge mechanism introduces rotational freedom in a third dimension, allowing the core portions to be aligned not just in a single plane but through rotational movement. This dimensional addition enables installation in crowded spaces where linear alignment would be impossible, as the hinge allows the second core portion to be approached from different angular directions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Volume of moving object

If separable core portions are used to reduce space requirements, then volume is reduced, but alignment of core portions during reassembly becomes difficult in crowded spaces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace requirementVSAvoidalignment difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge acts as an intermediary mechanism between the two separable core portions, facilitating their alignment during reassembly. Instead of requiring direct manual alignment of the core portions (which is difficult in crowded spaces), the hinge provides a guided rotational path that automatically brings the core portions into proper alignment as they are rotated into position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge transforms the static alignment problem into a dynamic rotational process. During reassembly, the second core portion can be rotated dynamically through the hinge mechanism, allowing the installer to maneuver it into the correct position even in crowded enclosures, rather than requiring precise static alignment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 convenient installation and reassembly of the transformer in confined spaces by allowing the core portions to be aligned and secured without obstructing access, improving the utilization of available space and simplifying the installation process.

Implementation Method 1

An alternating current flowing in the conductor, the primary winding of the transformer, magnetizes the core inducing a current in the coil of wire, the secondary winding

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9177718B2Sensing transformer with pivotable and rotatable split cores
Publication Date: 2015.11.03 VERIS INDS LLC
  • US9177718B2 patent drawing
  • US9177718B2 patent drawing
  • US9177718B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A split core sensing transformer comprises a first core portion and a second core portion joined to the first core portion for pivoting relative to the first core portion about a first axis and for rotation relative to the first core portion about a second axis substantially normal to said first axis.