Switchgear Short-Circuit Release Using Segmented U-Yoke
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switching devices with elongated cylindrical coils for short-circuit tripping have complex constructions, leading to production challenges and high manufacturing costs due to complex assembly and mounting of components.
Innovation Solution
A switching device with a structurally simple design featuring a U-shaped yoke and a hinged armature, where the U-shaped yoke is attached to a conductor and the hinged armature is attracted by high currents to trigger separation, allowing for easier manufacturing with higher tolerances and cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an elongated cylindrical coil with a movable armature is used for short-circuit tripping, then the tripping function is achieved, but the construction becomes complex and manufacturing becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The yoke is divided into two separate legs that are attached to different conductors (input and output), with the armature positioned between them. This segmentation simplifies the overall construction by distributing the magnetic circuit components across different locations rather than requiring a single complex coil assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a single cylindrical coil with an internal movable armature, the invention inverts the approach by using two stationary U-shaped yoke legs with a movable armature that bridges between them. This inversion simplifies the mounting and construction while achieving the same tripping function.
2Reliability
If an elongated cylindrical coil with armature mounting is used, then short-circuit protection is provided, but production and assembly become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic circuit is segmented into two separate yoke legs attached to different conductors, allowing independent mounting and assembly. The armature is separately positioned between the legs, enabling modular assembly rather than requiring complex internal mounting within a single coil housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The U-shaped yoke legs serve multiple functions: they provide the magnetic circuit path, act as mounting structures for attachment to conductors, and define the positioning for the armature. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies assembly.
3Reliability
If a complex coil structure with armature is used, then tripping functionality is achieved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the yoke into two separate legs that can be independently manufactured and then assembled, the production process becomes simpler and more cost-effective. Each yoke leg can be manufactured using standard fabrication processes without requiring complex internal armature mounting facilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The simplified U-shaped yoke structure and separate armature components can be manufactured as economical, standardized parts. The design allows for cost-effective production using simple machines and processes, reducing the overall manufacturing cost compared to precision-machined cylindrical coil assemblies.
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 results in a cost-effective, reliable switching device with a simplified structure that can be manufactured using simple machines, ensuring full functionality and operational reliability while avoiding the complexities of prior art designs.
Implementation Method 1
the hinged armature is attracted by high currents to trigger separation
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a switchgear (1) comprising at least one input terminal (2) and at least one output terminal (3) for connecting electrical conductors, and a first switching contact (4) and a second switching contact, said switching contacts closing, in a closed position, a current path between the input terminal (2) and the output terminal (3). A separating device is provided for separating the first switching contact (4) and the second switching contact, and a short-circuit release device (7) is mechanically actively connected to the separating device (5) in order to trigger same. The short-circuit release device (7) is arranged in the region of the at least one input terminal (3). According to the invention, in order to obtain a constructively simple structure, the short-circuit release device (7) comprises at least one U-shaped yoke (8) and a mobile hinged armature (9).