Multi-Phase Switching Apparatus With Integrated Selector And Segmented Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switching apparatus for electrical power systems face issues with operational simplicity, design cost, reliability, and safety due to the need for manual interlocking of earthing switches, lack of an isolated position, and the use of common actuators that reduce reliability and increase dimensions and costs.
Innovation Solution
A multi-phase switching apparatus with integrated drive means, combining a switch device and selector device in a monoblock unit, allowing for manual or power operation, with parallel longitudinal axes and interlocking mechanisms to enhance safety and reliability, and providing earthing, engaged, and isolated states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional DOCB is used with interlocks preventing circuit breaker closing in intermediate position and preventing DOCB movement when circuit breaker is closed, then switching and isolating functions are provided, but the heavy DOCB requires substantial force for movement and simultaneous closing of 6 tulip contacts, adversely affecting operational simplicity, design cost and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the DOCB into two separate devices: a circuit breaker and a selector switch. The circuit breaker handles switching operations while the selector switch provides isolating and earthing functions. This segmentation eliminates the need for the heavy DOCB to perform both switching and isolating functions simultaneously, reducing the force required for operation and improving reliability by removing complex interlocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines the isolating and earthing functions into a single selector switch device that integrates multiple positions (isolated, earthed, engaged). This merging of functions into one device simplifies the overall system compared to using separate DOCB and earthing switch with complex interlocks, improving ease of operation while maintaining safety.
2Reliability
If an earthing switch is provided as a separate device requiring manual interlocking during switchgear assembly, then earthing function is provided, but the manual interlocking reduces interlock reliability and system safety
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the earthing switch and selector into a single integrated device where the earthing function is built-in. The selector switch provides isolated, earthed, and engaged positions, eliminating the need for separate earthing switch assembly and manual interlocking. This integration ensures reliable interlocking is inherent in the device design rather than dependent on manual assembly procedures.
3Device complexity
If a three-phase VCB with single magnetic actuator controlling all three poles via mechanical linkages is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the mechanical linkages transferring substantial force reduce VCB reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention provides a separate magnetic actuator for each pole of the VCB rather than using a single actuator with mechanical linkages. This segmentation eliminates the need for force-transferring linkages between poles, removing the reliability issue while maintaining acceptable device complexity through standardized repetitive components.
4Adaptability or versatility
If selector and VCB are separate devices with mutual interlocking provided at switchgear assembly, then flexibility is provided, but the interlocking assembly is more human dependent reducing reliability and safety
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the selector and VCB into a single integrated unit where interlocking is built-in and automatic. The selector switch and VCB share a common actuator mechanism that provides inherent interlocking, eliminating dependence on manual assembly procedures while maintaining the flexibility of separate operational control. This integration ensures safety is built into the device architecture rather than relying on installation quality.
5Device complexity
If a common actuator for all VCB poles is used with mechanical linkage between poles, then device complexity is reduced, but substantial force transfer reduces VCB reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention assigns a separate magnetic actuator to each VCB pole, eliminating the need for mechanical linkages that transfer force between poles. While this increases the number of actuators, each actuator operates independently without force transfer requirements, significantly improving VCB reliability by removing the weak link of mechanical linkages.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4A~4C
AI summary
A switching apparatus for use with multi-phase electrical supply systems comprising a switch device comprising first and second contacts that are actuatable between an open state and a closed state by switch actuation means; a selector device coupled to the switch device and comprising a movable contact that is actuatable between at least two states by selector actuation means; and a base. The switch device and the selector device extend from the base, and at least part of the switch actuation means and at least part of the selector actuation means are provided at the base. The selector actuation means comprises a drive shaft coupled to the drive means, the drive shaft extending from the base along the selector device actuation axis.