Scissor-Arm Switch Actuator for Safe High-Voltage Servicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch mechanisms for maintaining power delivery during maintenance pose safety risks due to proximity with high voltage terminals, necessitating a solution that allows safe servicing without interrupting power.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism using scissor arms actuated by a screw drive to transport switches between extended and retracted positions, ensuring electrical isolation and safe decoupling from energized terminals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a switch is used to maintain power delivery during maintenance, then power continuity is ensured, but the proximity to high voltage terminals creates safety risks for technicians
Solution Approach 1:
The switch assembly is segmented from the main power system through the scissor mechanism, allowing the switch to be physically separated into a safe zone while maintaining electrical connectivity. This segmentation enables maintenance personnel to service the switch without exposing themselves to high voltage terminals.
Solution Approach 2:
The scissor mechanism acts as an intermediary between the high voltage terminals and the switch. It provides a controlled connection that can be extended to maintain power delivery or retracted to create safety distance, mediating the interaction between power continuity requirements and safety concerns.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a mechanism is introduced to transport the switch between extended and retracted positions, then safety distance can be controlled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scissor mechanism provides dynamic positioning capability, allowing the switch to move between extended (operational) and retracted (maintenance) positions. This dynamic adjustment enables the system to adapt to different operational states while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The scissor mechanism is designed to be actuated by the switch itself or integrated control systems, allowing the positioning function to be self-contained within the assembly. This self-service approach reduces the need for external complex control mechanisms.
3Productivity
If the scissor arms are extended to maintain switch connection, then power delivery continues, but the risk of contact with high voltage terminals increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the position of the switch relative to high voltage terminals based on operational requirements. During maintenance, the scissor mechanism retracts to create safety distance while allowing power delivery to continue through the disconnected switch, resolving the conflict between productivity and safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical separation achieved through scissor arm retraction segments the switch from high voltage terminals, eliminating contact risk while maintaining electrical system functionality. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to work on the switch without exposure to high voltage hazards.
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
Facilitates safe servicing of electrical switches by maintaining power delivery and preventing contact with high voltage terminals, reducing downtime and enhancing safety for technicians.
Implementation Method 1
The drive is an electrical screw drive
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrical connection is provided. An electrical connection apparatus includes a mechanism (100) to transport a switch between a retracted position and an extended position. The mechanism includes multiple scissor arms (108). The mechanism includes a drive (110) configured to receive power from a power source. The drive uses the power to extend the scissor arms to transport the switch to the extended position and retract the scissor arms to transport the switch to the retracted position.