Switch Arc Runner Longitudinal Repositioning for Downsizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional arc runners cannot be effectively integrated into downsized switches due to limited space between interphase barriers and movable contacts, leading to shortened electrical life and interphase short circuits.
Innovation Solution
A small-size switch design that includes an arc runner with an arc extinguish portion disposed along the operating direction of the movable contact, not laterally overlapping with interphase barriers, allowing for the arc runner to be positioned without intruding into the space where the interphase barrier and movable contactor are closest, and featuring a heat radiation portion for prompt arc extinction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an arc runner is provided to extinguish arcs and protect insulation, then electrical life and reliability are improved, but the switch size increases due to space requirements for the arc runner between movable contact and interphase barriers
Solution Approach 1:
The arc runner is repositioned from a lateral arrangement (between movable contact and interphase barrier) to a longitudinal arrangement (behind the movable contactor). This dimensional change allows the arc runner to function effectively without occupying the limited lateral space, thus enabling switch downsizing while maintaining arc extinction capability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a simplified arc runner structure that copies only the essential arc-extinguishing function without requiring the complex U-shape portions and expanded portions of conventional designs. This simplified version achieves the same protective effect with reduced space requirements
2Volume of moving object
If the switch is downsized to reduce overall dimensions, then compactness is improved, but the space for arc runners becomes insufficient leading to shortened electrical life and potential interphase short circuits
Solution Approach 1:
By moving the arc runner to the longitudinal space behind the movable contactor, the invention creates adequate space for arc extinction in compact switches. This repositioning resolves the space conflict in downsized switches while maintaining the arc protection function necessary for electrical life
Solution Approach 2:
The arc runner is extracted from the crowded lateral space and placed in the available longitudinal space behind the movable contactor. This extraction allows the arc runner to be positioned where it can function effectively without competing for space with other critical components, ensuring reliability in compact designs
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
Enables the downsizing of switches with integrated arc runners, preventing interphase short circuits and extending electrical life by ensuring effective arc extinction without compromising insulation performance.
Implementation Method 1
an arc is generated between the movable contact and the fixed contact when current is cut off... an arc runner serving as an arc-extinguishing metal plate for attracting the arc to promptly extinguish it
Implementation Method 2
featuring a heat radiation portion for prompt arc extinction
Data Source
AI summary
A small-size switch having an arc runner is provided. The switch includes fixed contacts each of which is bonded with each one end of fixed contactors 6U; movable contacts 10U each of which is bonded with each of movable contactors 9 and each of which can contact with or leave from each of the fixed contacts; an interphase barrier 80 that is disposed so as to partition the movable contacts 10U one by one and that is an insulator; and an arc runner that has an arc extinguish portion 12A and that is disposed so as not to intrude in a space where the interphase barrier 80 and the movable contactor 9 are most closely located.