Switch Axial Support for Inclined Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switches for high currents and high breaking capacities face limitations in mechanical efficiency and installation flexibility due to increased friction and weight, which restrict their use in various configurations, especially in low-voltage systems with horizontal busbars.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of axial support means that counteract gravitational thrusts on the mobile element, allowing for reduced friction and enabling installation in any configuration, using a compact structure with a limited number of components and energy-accumulation type control mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the radial dimensions of the mobile element are increased to improve mechanical tightness for high currents, then the dielectric characteristics are preserved, but the friction in bearing areas increases and mechanical efficiency degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces gravitational counterbalancing means that generate an upward force to compensate for the weight of the mobile element. This counterbalancing reduces the effective load on bearing areas, thereby reducing friction and mechanical losses while allowing the mobile element to maintain the necessary radial dimensions for high current applications.
2Reliability
If the radial dimensions and weight of the mobile element are increased for high breaking capacities, then the switch can handle higher currents, but the switch cannot be installed at different angles from the design configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The gravitational counterbalancing means enable the mobile element to be balanced in any orientation, allowing the switch to be installed at different angles (horizontal, vertical, inclined) without compromising functionality. The counterbalancing force compensates for the increased weight, maintaining proper coupling between parts regardless of installation configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the support system dynamic by allowing the mobile element to be balanced in various positions. The counterbalancing mechanism adapts to different installation angles, transforming a static, angle-specific design into a dynamic system that maintains performance across multiple installation configurations.
3Strength
If the weight of the mobile element is increased for high breaking capacities, then the mechanical strength is improved, but the friction and bending increase which alter normal operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The gravitational counterbalancing means generate a force that opposes the weight of the mobile element, effectively reducing the net downward force. This counterbalancing prevents excessive friction in bearing areas and eliminates bending moments that would otherwise alter normal operating conditions, while allowing the mobile element to maintain the structural strength needed for high breaking capacities.
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
This solution ensures long service life, high performance, and flexibility in installation configurations while maintaining mechanical reliability and reducing friction, thus overcoming the limitations of traditional switches.
Implementation Method 1
means of axial support operatively connected to said mobile element for countering the gravitational thrusts that are generated along its axis of rotation when said axis of rotation is inclined with respect to a substantially horizontal plane
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a single-pole or multi-pole switch to be used preferably in low-voltage systems. The switch (1) comprises an outer casing (2) containing for each pole at least one fixed contact (10) and one mobile contact (20) that can be coupled to/uncoupled from one another. The mobile contacts (20) are housed in appropriate seats (25) provided on a mobile element (50). The switch (1) moreover comprises an energy-accumulation control mechanism (60), operatively connected to the mobile element (50) to enable its movement. The switch (1) according to the invention is advantageously provided with means of axial support operatively connected to the mobile element (50) in order to support the gravitational thrusts that are generated along the axis of rotation of the mobile element itself when said axis is inclined with respect to a substantially horizontal plane.