Momentary Contact Switch Actuation with Solenoid Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Momentary contact switches in electric power transmission and distribution systems require efficient mechanisms for remote actuation and biasing to manage multiple electrical and mechanical states, which existing technologies do not adequately address, particularly in systems requiring both manual and electronic operation.
Innovation Solution
A momentary contact switch with a rotatable shaft that can be manually or electronically actuated between multiple positions, utilizing a combination of rotary arms, pull arms, an auxiliary solenoid, and a master solenoid to selectively rotate the shaft between unique mechanical states, allowing for remote operation and automatic return to a default position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a momentary contact switch is designed for manual operation only, then the device complexity is low, but the extent of automation is insufficient for remote actuation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a master solenoid for primary actuation, an auxiliary solenoid for position selection, and a ratchet mechanism for directional control. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function, enabling remote automation while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
A ratchet mechanism acts as an intermediary between the solenoids and the switch operator. The ratchet converts the linear motion of the solenoid plunger into unidirectional rotary motion of the operator, enabling remote actuation while maintaining the manual operation capability through mechanical bias
2Adaptability or versatility
If a momentary contact switch with mechanical bias is used, then the switch automatically returns to default position, but existing technologies do not adequately address remote actuation of multiple electrical and mechanical states
Solution Approach 1:
The operator is designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing it to be held in multiple fixed positions (on, off, intermediate) rather than simply moving between two extremes. The ratchet mechanism enables the operator to rest in various angular positions, providing adaptability for multiple electrical and mechanical states while maintaining mechanical bias for automatic return
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary solenoid is extracted as a separate component dedicated to position selection, while the master solenoid handles primary actuation. This extraction allows the system to achieve multiple states by combining the functions of two simpler solenoids, reducing the complexity of any single actuation component
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 reliable and efficient remote actuation of momentary contact switches, enhancing operational flexibility and automation in electric power systems by allowing both manual and electronic control of the switch's mechanical states, such as trip, normal, and close positions, while maintaining manual operability.
Implementation Method 1
an auxiliary solenoid and a master solenoid
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed herein relating to a momentary contact switch that can be both manually and electronically actuated. In some embodiments, an electronic module can be added to a manual momentary contact switch to enable electronic control. The momentary contact switch can be transitioned between first, second, and third electrical states based on the rotation of a shaft between first, second, and third rotational positions. Rotary arms are selectively engaged by pull arms connected to a master solenoid to selectively rotate the shaft from the first rotational position to the second and third rotational positions.