Solid-State Auxiliary Switches for Electrical Contactors

The patent replaces electromechanical auxiliary switches with solid-state electronic switches (such as MOSFETs or IGBTs) that are controlled by electronic control logic. This substitution eliminates mechanical moving parts, contacts, and adjustments while providing the same auxiliary contact functions. The electronic switches are controlled based on detected characteristics of the coil current waveform, thereby improving reliability by removing susceptibility to foreign object debris and contaminants that affect mechanical components.

The patent eliminates mechanical adjustments by replacing electromechanical auxiliary switches with solid-state electronic switches controlled by electronic logic. The control system automatically detects coil current waveform characteristics and actuates the electronic auxiliary switches accordingly, removing the need for manual mechanical adjustments for wear allowance. This results in reduced maintenance complexity and increased life expectancy since there are no mechanical parts to wear or adjust.

The patent replaces electromechanical auxiliary switches with solid-state electronic switches that have no exposed mechanical contacts or moving parts. The electronic switches are controlled by control logic that monitors coil current waveform characteristics. This substitution eliminates the susceptibility to foreign object debris and contaminants that plagues electromechanical switches, while maintaining all auxiliary contact functions through electronic control.