Sequential Switching for Galvanic Isolation in Rotary Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic switching devices lack the ability for forced opening of galvanic contacts and do not possess standard separation properties or galvanic opening in case of overload.
Innovation Solution
A switching device with a manually operated control area that includes a rotary angle position-determining element, a semiconductor switching point, and a magnetic trigger, which enables galvanic separation and overload protection through sequential switching off of semiconductor and mechanical contacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a semiconductor switching point is combined with mechanical contacts in existing switching devices, then switching functionality is achieved, but forced opening of galvanic contacts is not possible and standardized isolating function is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The switching device is divided into two independent switching points: a first switching point with mechanical contacts for galvanic isolation, and a second switching point with a semiconductor switch for overcurrent protection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling forced opening capability while maintaining manageable device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A magnetic coupling mechanism acts as an intermediary between the operating element and the switching points. The magnetic core with windings generates magnetic fields that simultaneously actuate both the mechanical contacts and the semiconductor switch without direct mechanical connection, enabling coordinated switching while simplifying the overall mechanism.
2Reliability
If mechanical contacts are used for galvanic isolation, then standardized isolating function is achieved, but arcing and extinguishing facilities are required
Solution Approach 1:
The semiconductor switch performs preliminary action by opening the circuit before the mechanical contacts. This sequential operation ensures that current is interrupted electronically first, preventing arcing when the mechanical contacts open, thereby eliminating the need for complex arc extinguishing facilities while maintaining reliable galvanic isolation.
3Speed
If semiconductor switches are used alone, then switching speed is improved, but forced opening capability and standardized isolating function are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The dual switching point architecture segments the switching functions: the semiconductor switch handles high-speed electronic switching and overcurrent protection, while the mechanical contacts provide forced opening capability and standardized galvanic isolation. This segmentation allows each component to excel at its designated function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The semiconductor switch performs preliminary switching action at high speed, and the mechanical contacts follow with forced opening. This preliminary action by the semiconductor device enables fast response while the subsequent mechanical action ensures reliable galvanic isolation and forced opening capability.
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 solution allows for safe and reliable galvanic opening without arcing or extinguishing facilities, optimizing the device's construction and ensuring separation even in case of faulty semiconductor switches.
Implementation Method 1
a change in the rotation angle of the operating point is to be determined via a rotation angle position sensing element, whereby a signal is generated at a certain rotation angle
Implementation Method 2
galvanic isolation is effected subsequently in a contact arrangement in the first switching point by means of a switching state transformer
Implementation Method 3
A switching device with a manually operated control area that includes a rotary angle position-determining element, a semiconductor switching point, and a magnetic trigger, which enables galvanic separation
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 7~8
AI summary
The invention relates to a switching device with: - a first, manually operated, separable switching point (24) by means of an operating element, wherein a change in the rotation angle of the operating element (24) is to be determined via a rotation angle position sensing element (25), whereby a signal is generated at a certain rotation angle, which is passed on to an evaluation and control unit and - a second switching point, which acts to disconnect the circuit in advance of the first switching point, wherein galvanic isolation is effected in a contact arrangement (5) in the first switching point in a subsequent time by means of a switching state transformer.