Actuation Mechanism for Electric Switching Devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric switching devices require high power motors to prevent arcing during switching operations, which can be bulky and inefficient, necessitating a more compact and efficient actuation mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A slim actuation mechanism for electric switching devices, comprising a spring-loaded system with rotatable D-shafts and levers that convert slow motor movement into high-speed switching contact movement, reducing the need for high power motors and preventing arcing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a high power motor is used to move the switching contact at high speed, then arcing is prevented, but the device becomes bulky and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The spring is pre-loaded during the first phase of motor operation, storing potential energy before the actual switching action is needed. This preliminary energy storage allows the contact to be moved at high speed without requiring a high power motor during the switching event itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor operates in two distinct phases: a first phase to load the spring, and a second phase to release the stored energy for rapid contact movement. This periodic operation separates the energy accumulation function from the high-speed actuation function, reducing peak power requirements.
2Power
If springs are used to convert slow motor movement to high speed contact movement, then high mechanical power is achieved, but the actuation mechanism becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element dynamically transitions between blocking and unblocking states, controlling when the spring's stored energy is released. This dynamic control allows the compact spring mechanism to deliver high power only when needed, rather than requiring a continuously large mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking element is positioned within the actuation mechanism in such a way that it can engage and disengage to control the spring's action. This nested arrangement allows the blocking function to be integrated into the existing mechanism without adding significant volume.
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 provides a durable, reliable, and efficient conversion of slow motor movement to high-speed switching contact movement, effectively preventing arcing without the need for high power motors, suitable for low, medium, and high voltage applications, including vacuum and gas-based switching devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring (9), a first actuation plate (10) connected to or contacting the first spring (9) and coupled with the switching contact (2)
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments relate to an electric switching device, which comprises a switching contact, an actuation mechanism coupled to the switching contact and a motor coupled to the actuation mechanism. The actuation mechanism comprises a first spring, a first actuation plate coupled with the switching contact and a second actuation plate coupled with the motor. The actuation mechanism also comprises a first blocking element, which blocks the first actuation plate in a rotational blocking position and releases the first actuation plate in a rotational release position. The first spring is loaded by a movement of the motor. At some point in time, the second actuation plate or an actuating element connected thereto turns the first blocking element and thus releases the first actuation plate. As a consequence, the first actuation plate starts to move and finally actuates the switching contact.