On-Load Tap Changer Support Structure for Firm Switch Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing on-load tap changers face challenges in firmly installing the changeover switch due to the large forces acting on it during operation, requiring complex structures to maintain insulation and stability.

Innovation Solution

The on-load tap changer features a changeover switch fastened to a container with a bottom portion having a receiving seat, supported by a support column, which is connected to the container's bottom wall, allowing direct dispersion of operating forces and simplifying the installation process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the changeover switch is firmly installed to withstand large operating forces, then the reliability of the tap changer improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefirm installation of changeover switchVSAvoidinstallation structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support column is integrally formed with the container wall, merging the support function into the container structure itself. This eliminates separate support components and reduces installation complexity while maintaining the ability to withstand large operating forces on the changeover switch

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The support column is pre-formed as part of the container structure during manufacturing. This preliminary integration ensures proper positioning and structural strength are built-in from the start, eliminating the need for complex field installation procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Stability of the object's composition

If the changeover switch is firmly installed with complex structure, then the stability during operation improves, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational stability of changeover switchVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating the support column with the container wall as a single structural element, the design reduces the number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integral structure maintains operational stability while simplifying the manufacturing process through reduced part count and assembly steps

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If the changeover switch is firmly installed, then the reliability improves, but the ease of repair deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefirm installation of changeover switchVSAvoidmaintenance accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The changeover switch is designed as a separable component that can be removed from the container while the support column remains integrated. This segmentation allows the changeover switch to be firmly installed during operation yet easily removed for maintenance, improving both reliability and ease of repair

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP4068316B1On-load tap changer
Publication Date: 2025.10.29 KK TOSHIBA
  • EP4068316B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4068316B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4068316B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An on-load tap changer according to an embodiment comprises a changeover switch and a container. The changeover switch performs a winding tap changing operation. The container contains the changeover switch. The container has a bottom portion to which the changeover switch is secured.