Trip Cause Management Device for Electric Trip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing circuit breakers face inefficiencies in reliably detecting and recording the causes of tripping events due to high power consumption by microprocessors, which can lead to data loss when the primary power supply is interrupted.
Innovation Solution
A circuit breaker design incorporating three microcontrollers with different power consumption profiles, where a first microcontroller measures electrical characteristics, a second performs detailed analysis, and a third signals the tripping cause with lower power consumption, all supported by secondary power sources to ensure data recording and retrieval even during power outages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single microprocessor is used to save tripping information and electrical quantities, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability of data recording deteriorates due to high power consumption and potential data loss during power interruption
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the microprocessor functionality into three separate microcontrollers, each dedicated to specific tasks: one for measuring electrical quantities, one for analyzing data, and one for signaling tripping causes. This segmentation allows each microcontroller to operate independently with lower individual power consumption, ensuring that at least one microcontroller remains functional during power interruptions, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Each microcontroller is optimized for its specific function with appropriate power consumption characteristics. The signaling microcontroller uses minimal power to maintain operation during power failures, while the measurement and analysis microcontrollers can consume more power during normal operation. This local optimization of power consumption ensures reliable data recording while managing overall device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large microprocessor is used to handle all monitoring and data saving functions, then functionality is consolidated, but energy consumption increases leading to shorter data availability during power outages
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the monolithic microprocessor into three specialized microcontrollers, each performing specific functions with optimized power consumption. The measurement microcontroller continuously monitors electrical quantities with low power use, the analysis microcontroller processes data during normal operation, and the signaling microcontroller maintains minimal operation to preserve data during power failures. This segmentation maintains full functionality while dramatically reducing overall energy consumption and extending data availability during outages
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs microcontrollers with different power consumption profiles, using the lowest power microcontroller for critical functions that must persist during power failures. The signaling microcontroller operates in a minimal mode during power outages, consuming enough energy to maintain data integrity but depleting quickly, which is acceptable since its primary role during normal operation is already fulfilled by the other microcontrollers
3Device complexity
If power is supplied directly from the monitored line to the microprocessor, then device complexity is minimized, but data availability deteriorates when tripping occurs and power is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments power management across three microcontrollers with different power consumption characteristics. The signaling microcontroller is designed to operate on minimal power from the monitored line, allowing it to continue functioning briefly after tripping occurs and main power is interrupted. This segmentation enables extended data availability during power outages while maintaining relatively simple device architecture through direct line power connection
Solution Approach 2:
Each microcontroller is optimized for its specific operational requirements and power consumption needs. The signaling microcontroller uses minimal power to maintain operation during power failures, extending data availability duration. This local optimization of power consumption characteristics allows the system to tolerate direct connection to the monitored line while ensuring that critical data recording functions persist briefly during tripping events
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
This configuration allows for efficient and reliable detection and recording of tripping causes, enabling prolonged data availability and reduced energy consumption, facilitating compact and robust device operation.
Implementation Method 1
a secondary power source configured to supply the three microcontroller in case of unavailability of the power line
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A control device (1) for triggering events in an electronic trigger allows for efficient and reliable operation through a three-microcontroller architecture. The first microcontroller (3), the second microcontroller (4), and the third microcontroller (5), being connected, analyze and store typical characteristics of the electrical network (2) measured by the first microcontroller (3). Depending on the power supply conditions and the events analyzed, one, two, or three microcontrollers can be active to reduce the electrical power requirements of the device (1). The storage of information relating to the electrical network (2) is performed, at least in part, redundantly.