Solid State Switching Device Arcless DC Interruption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional low voltage switching devices face challenges in DC applications with long interruption times and wear due to electric arcs, and hybrid solutions are bulky and complex, lacking galvanic isolation and requiring precise timing coordination.
Innovation Solution
A switching device with semiconductor-based solid state switches connected in series or parallel, integrated with mechanical contacts and a control unit that ensures safe operation by coordinating the switching of solid state switches to an off-state before mechanical movement, reducing arc occurrence and providing galvanic isolation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hybrid solutions with both electro-mechanical and solid state switches are used, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and bulk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple switch types and control functions into a single compact housing. The solid state switches and electro-mechanical switches are arranged in coordinated configurations (series or parallel depending on pole), sharing common control electronics and housing structure. This merging approach reduces overall device complexity compared to using separate solid state circuit breakers and disconnectors, while maintaining improved reliability.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If solid state switches are used, then arcless breaking is achieved, but intensive cooling is required to remove heat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces electro-mechanical switches as intermediary elements that handle the galvanic isolation function. When the electro-mechanical switches are open, they physically separate the circuit, allowing the solid state switches to be turned off without carrying load current. This intermediary arrangement reduces the heat generation burden on solid state switches since they don't need to dissipate full load power when in the off state, while still providing arcless breaking when commutating.
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 achieves reliable, arcless switching with extended operational life, simplified structure, and easy installation, while ensuring galvanic isolation and reducing wear, thus addressing the limitations of conventional devices.
Implementation Method 1
solid state switches are semiconductor-based switching devices that can commutate between an on-state and an off-state
Implementation Method 2
provided that their mutual physical separation is above a minimum value
Data Source
AI summary
Switching device comprising:a switching unit comprising, for each electric pole, a first disconnection contact, a second disconnection contact and one or more solid state switches;a supporting frame comprising, for each electric pole, a third disconnection contact and a fourth disconnection contact, which are coupled/separated respectively with/from the first and second disconnection contacts, when the switching unit is in an insertion/withdrawn position with respect to the supporting frame;actuating means for moving the switching unit between the insertion position and said the withdrawn position, and viceversa;a control unit comprising control means that are configured to coordinate the operation of the actuating means and the solid state switches, when an insertion/withdrawn operation of the switching unit has to be performed, so that the actuating means move the switching unit only when the solid state switches are in an off-state.