Switching Device Internal Overvoltage Limiter Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electromagnetic switching devices face challenges in retrofitting overvoltage limiters and additional elements without increasing their external dimensions, particularly in space-constrained environments like control cabinets, where side or rear mounting is not feasible.

Innovation Solution

A switching device with a receiving device and interface within its housing that allows for the complete enclosure and electrical contacting of overvoltage limiters and additional elements, such as communication modules, without altering the device's external dimensions, enabling flexible and space-optimized retrofitting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If an overvoltage limiter is mounted externally on the front of the electromagnetic switching device, then the overvoltage limiter can be connected to the switching device, but the external dimensions of the electromagnetic switching device are increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveovervoltage protectionVSAvoidexternal dimensions
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The overvoltage limiter is completely received within the housing of the electromagnetic switching device through a receiving device. The limiter fits into an internal cavity or recess in the housing, allowing it to be nested within the existing external dimensions without increasing the overall size of the switching device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The overvoltage limiter and electromagnetic switching device are combined into a single integrated unit. The receiving device provides mechanical mounting and electrical connection interfaces that merge the two components into one compact assembly, eliminating the need for separate external mounting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Length of stationary object

If the overvoltage limiter is mounted on the side or back of the switching device, then the external dimensions might be maintained, but the mounting is not possible or not useful due to rear arrangement on mounting rail or lateral connection of several switching devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexternal dimensionsVSAvoidmounting flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The receiving device is designed with universal mounting capabilities that work regardless of the switching device's installation position or configuration. The front-side receiving device accommodates the overvoltage limiter in a manner that is compatible with various mounting scenarios including rail mounting and lateral connections, providing universal adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Length of stationary object

If a receiving device is integrated into the housing to completely receive the overvoltage limiter, then the external dimensions are maintained, but the receiving device requires additional interfaces for electrical contacting

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexternal dimensionsVSAvoidinterface configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The receiving device incorporates self-aligning electrical contact interfaces that automatically establish connections when the overvoltage limiter is inserted. The interface design includes contact blades or conductive elements that engage with corresponding terminals on the limiter, providing self-service electrical connection without requiring additional complex wiring or alignment procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 easy and space-efficient installation of overvoltage limiters and additional elements, maintaining the device's dimensions and allowing for flexible expansion of functionality, even in environments where external mounting is impossible, thereby enhancing versatility and reducing manufacturing costs.

Implementation Method 1

When current flows through the coil, a magnetic field is created

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field generation: Electromagnet

Implementation Method 2

An anchor is attracted, which then presses two contact springs against each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP1975962B1Switching device, in particular electromagnetic switching device
Publication Date: 2009.06.24 SIEMENS AG
  • EP1975962B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP1975962B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP1975962B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The device (1) has housing (2), where a receiving device (4) is provided for completely receiving an over voltage protector in the housing. The receiving device has an interface for electrical contact of the over voltage protector, where the receiving device is provided at a front side of the switching device. The receiving device includes fastening elements for fastening the over voltage protector in the receiving device. The housing has a covering element (6) for closing the switching device.