Sliding Block Microswitch Assembly for Circuit Interrupter Self-Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional circuit interrupters face challenges in reliably disconnecting from electrical power during faults, particularly when mechanical or electrical components fail due to age or wear, and lack efficient self-testing mechanisms to ensure proper functioning.
Innovation Solution
A sliding block module with a block seat, sliding block, and arm assemblies that include conductive components and torsion springs, allowing for robust and stable tripping and resetting mechanisms, along with a self-test feature to ensure proper functioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mechanical or electrical circuit interrupter components are used, then the device can perform basic circuit interruption, but the reliability decreases when components fail due to age or wear
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit interrupter performs automatic self-testing through the sliding block mechanism that actuates a microswitch, enabling the device to monitor its own operational status without external intervention and maintain reliability despite component aging
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-tests prior to resetting after a fault is detected, proactively verifying component functionality before returning to power-on mode, ensuring that failed components are identified before they compromise safety
2Reliability
If a robust mechanical trip/reset assembly is provided, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trip/reset function is divided into separate mechanical components (sliding block, arm assemblies, hinges) that operate independently but coordinate through defined geometric relationships, achieving robustness without requiring a complex integrated mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex electrical system to detect and respond to faults, the patent employs a simple geometric mechanism where the sliding block's vertical movement directly actuates the microswitch, inverting the approach from electrical sensing to mechanical actuation
3Reliability
If automatic self-testing is implemented, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding block mechanism serves multiple functions: it acts as the mechanical trip indicator, the actuator for the microswitch during self-testing, and the reset position indicator, eliminating the need for separate components for each function and reducing overall system complexity
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 provides reliable power disconnection during faults and ensures efficient self-testing, enhancing safety and reliability of circuit interrupters by maintaining stable electrical connections and facilitating easy assembly and installation.
Implementation Method 1
The first arm assembly may be biased to rotate inwardly toward the block seat and the sliding block
Data Source
AI summary
In one example, a sliding block module is provided. The sliding block module may include a block seat, a sliding block, and a first arm assembly. The sliding block may be at least partially disposed within the block seat, and may be configured to move vertically therein. The block seat and the first arm assembly may form a first hinge upon which the first arm assembly may rotate. The first arm assembly may include a first conductive component. The first arm assembly may be biased to rotate inwardly toward the block seat and the sliding block. The sliding block module may be utilized as part of mechanical trip/reset assembly of, for example, a circuit interrupter.