Sectioning Device With Automatic Grounding For Electrocution Safety

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Solution Overview

Problem

Devices for sectioning electrical circuits pose a risk of electrocution when the first sectioning member is in the open position, especially due to manual resetting mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A sectioning device with a second movable sectioning member coupled to the first, automatic control means involving a magnetized plate and electromagnetic winding, and a manual control rod, which ensures safe commutation and grounding of electrical connections, reducing electrocution risks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If manual resetting control mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but safety against electrocution deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol mechanism complexityVSAvoidelectrocution risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the sectioning device into two independent sectioning members (first and second sectioning members) with separate control mechanisms. The first sectioning member is controlled manually while the second is controlled automatically, segmenting the safety function to eliminate electrocution risk without excessive complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a second sectioning member as an intermediary safety mechanism that automatically grounds the circuit when the first sectioning member opens. This intermediary element mediates between manual operation and safety requirements, providing automatic protection against electrocution

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If automatic control means with electromagnetic winding and magnetized plate is used, then safety against electrocution is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrocution riskVSAvoidcontrol means complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex electronic control systems with a simpler electromagnetic mechanism consisting of a magnetized plate and electromagnetic winding. This substitution achieves automatic control functionality while minimizing device complexity through well-established electromagnetic principles

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Extent of automation

If second sectioning member is mechanically coupled to first sectioning member, then automation level is improved, but mechanical complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommutation automationVSAvoidmechanical coupling complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the control functions of both sectioning members into a single mechanical coupling system. The mechanical linkage merges the operation of the first and second sectioning members, achieving automated commutation through a unified mechanical structure rather than separate control systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The device automatically and safely commutates electrical connections, reducing the risk of electrocution by ensuring the sectioning members are in safe positions, and in case of failure, isolates the power supply circuit, grounding conductive rails to prevent electrical hazards.

Implementation Method 1

an electromagnetic winding which is fixedly joined to the housing and which is connected to two control terminals which are carried by the housing and which is intended to keep the first sectioning member in a closed position in the absence of any electrical current between the control terminals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a return spring which is urged between the first sectioning member and the housing and which is intended to return the first sectioning member into an open position in the presence, between the control terminals, of an electrical release current

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8319587B2Device for sectioning an electrical circuit and a system for distributing electrical energy including the sectioning device
Publication Date: 2012.11.27 ALSTOM HOLDINGS SA
  • US8319587B2 patent drawing
  • US8319587B2 patent drawing
  • US8319587B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for sectioning an electrical circuit is provided. The device includes a housing having two main sectioning terminals and, in the housing, a first member for sectioning a first electrical connection between the two main sectioning terminals, an automatic control, under the action of an electrical signal, of the first sectioning member from the closed position to the open position thereof, and a manual control member for resetting the first sectioning member from the open position to the closed position thereof. The device also includes, in the housing, two secondary sectioning terminals and a second sectioning member movable between a position for opening and a position for closing a second electrical connection between the two secondary sectioning terminals, the second sectioning member being coupled to the first sectioning member, commutation of the first sectioning member bringing about commutation of the second sectioning member.