Substation Robot with Automated Tool Changing and Safety Interlocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated substation systems with unmanned operation and maintenance require restricted human access when primary circuits are energized, posing safety risks and complicating maintenance procedures.
Innovation Solution
A robotic system operates within the substation, equipped with sensor means to detect human presence and automatically lock the inner room door when current-carrying parts are energized, allowing unmanned maintenance and spare part sourcing, with a tool changing system for automated tool switching and a designated repair area for human access when necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If human operators are restricted from entering the operation room when primary circuits are energized, then safety of human operators is improved, but maintenance procedures become more complex and require automated robotic systems
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is equipped with a tool changing system that enables it to autonomously exchange tools for different maintenance tasks. The robot can automatically select, grasp, and switch between various tools (screwdrivers, wrenches, diagnostic devices) without human intervention, allowing the system to service itself and perform maintenance operations independently when human access is restricted.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system acts as an intermediary between human operators and the energized electrical equipment. The robot performs maintenance tasks inside the operation room while humans remain outside, mediating the interaction between human needs for maintenance and the safety requirements for restricted access to energized circuits.
2Extent of automation
If a robotic system is introduced for unmanned operation and maintenance, then automation level is improved, but the system requires additional maintenance for the robotic components themselves
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system includes self-maintenance capabilities through automated tool changing and the ability to access spare parts stored in the operation room. The robot can autonomously perform maintenance on its own components, exchange worn tools, and retrieve replacement parts without requiring human operators to enter the restricted area.
Solution Approach 2:
Spare parts and maintenance tools are pre-stored within the operation room in a designated area accessible to the robotic system. This preliminary preparation allows the robot to perform maintenance on itself and the electrical equipment without requiring human intervention or external supply chains during automated operations.
3Productivity
If the robotic system is equipped with a tool changing system for automated tool switching, then maintenance efficiency is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is equipped with a universal tool changing system that can accommodate multiple different tool types (screwdrivers, wrenches, diagnostic instruments) through a standardized interface. This multi-functional capability allows a single robot to perform various maintenance tasks by automatically exchanging tools, eliminating the need for multiple specialized robots or manual tool changes.
4Reliability
If human access to the operation room is restricted when circuits are energized, then safety is improved, but spare parts sourcing and maintenance become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system autonomously retrieves spare parts from storage areas within the operation room and brings them to the maintenance location. The robot independently handles part sourcing, transportation, and installation without requiring human operators to enter the restricted area, maintaining safety while ensuring continuous availability of spare parts.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a substation containing switchgear or controlgear with unmanned operation and maintenance. In order to proceed the operating and/or maintenance of such substations in an automized way, and just in case of further need of human operator, to enhance security for the human operator, the invention is, that the inner room is locked against the outer housing by an inner, automatically operated door, that a robot system is implemented in such, that the robot systems acting area is extended form in the inner room, partly in the area outside the inner room, but inside the outer housing, where spare parts are stored in a spare parts hand over area, for maintenance.