Transfer Switch Voltage Adaptation via Solenoid Coil Selection

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing transfer switches require time-consuming and expensive reconfiguration to accommodate different operating voltages, posing a challenge in efficiently switching between electrical power sources in various countries.

Innovation Solution

A transfer switch with a selector mechanism that automatically adjusts the operating voltage by using electromagnetic devices with coils and a moveable contactor actuation member, allowing for seamless switching between different AC power voltage levels, such as 110 VAC and 220 VAC, using a solenoid-based system for contactor control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the transfer switch is reconfigured to accommodate different operating voltages, then the transfer switch can adapt to various countries' electrical standards, but the reconfiguration process is time-consuming and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevoltage adaptabilityVSAvoidreconfiguration time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The transfer switch incorporates multiple coils with different turn ratios that can be selectively activated to handle different voltage levels (e.g., 110V and 220V). This universal design allows a single device to serve multiple voltage requirements without physical reconfiguration, eliminating the need for time-consuming and expensive manual adjustments when deploying to different countries with different electrical standards.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the transfer switch is reconfigured to accommodate different operating voltages, then the transfer switch can adapt to various countries' electrical standards, but the reconfiguration process is expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevoltage adaptabilityVSAvoidreconfiguration cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The transfer switch incorporates multiple coils with different turn ratios that can be selectively activated to handle different voltage levels (e.g., 110V and 220V). This universal design allows a single device to serve multiple voltage requirements without physical reconfiguration, eliminating the need for time-consuming and expensive manual adjustments when deploying to different countries with different electrical standards.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The transfer switch uses a dynamic selection mechanism that allows operational parameters (coil selection) to be changed based on the required voltage level. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to different voltage standards electronically rather than requiring physical reconfiguration, thereby reducing both time and cost associated with deployment to different regions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 quick and cost-effective switching between power sources without the need for manual reconfiguration, ensuring reliable power transfer across different voltage levels, thereby addressing the inefficiencies of traditional systems.

Implementation Method 1

a coil arrangement to provide a magnetic field in response to an electric current flowing therethrough

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

using a solenoid-based system for contactor control

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSolenoid: Solenoid

Data Source

PatentUS10326303B2Transfer switch

Publication Date: 2019.06.18 CUMMINS POWER GENERATION IP INC

AI summary

A transfer switch transfers electric power provided to an electrical load from a first power source to a second power source. The transfer switch includes a coil arrangement that controls movement of a member to open or close a contactor of the first or second power source. The coil arrangement may be used with two voltage levels.