Voltage Divider Assembly for Internal Switchgear Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional voltage dividers for medium-voltage or high-voltage power networks, especially those externally attached to switchgears, are bulky, pose safety hazards, and complicate type approvals, while internal installation is challenging due to space constraints and insulation requirements.
Innovation Solution
A voltage divider assembly is designed for internal installation within a switchgear, featuring conductive connecting means and a series of discrete impedance elements that provide a stepwise voltage reduction, reducing the risk of electrical discharges and simplifying type approvals by integrating the voltage divider as part of the switchgear's overall approval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If voltage dividers are externally attached to switchgears, then voltage sensing is achieved, but the device occupies precious space and poses safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage divider assembly is integrated into the switchgear compartment, merging two previously separate components (voltage divider and switchgear) into a unified system. This eliminates the need for external attachment, thereby removing safety hazards associated with external placement while maintaining voltage sensing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage divider assembly is nested within the switchgear compartment, with the connecting means inserted into the compartment and the impedance elements arranged in series between the power conductor and ground. This nesting approach allows the voltage divider to occupy minimal space within the existing switchgear structure while maintaining its sensing function.
2Measurement precision
If voltage dividers are externally attached to switchgears, then voltage sensing is achieved, but the device is bulky and occupies precious space
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage divider assembly is nested within the switchgear compartment, utilizing the existing space within the switchgear structure. The connecting means is inserted into the compartment, and the impedance elements are arranged compactly in series, thereby minimizing the volume occupied while maintaining voltage sensing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage divider is segmented into discrete impedance elements arranged in series, allowing for a compact configuration within the switchgear compartment. This segmentation enables the voltage division function to be achieved with minimal space occupation compared to traditional external attachments.
3Measurement precision
If voltage dividers are externally attached to switchgears, then voltage sensing is achieved, but type approval becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the voltage divider assembly with the switchgear into a single integrated system, the type approval process is simplified. Instead of requiring separate approvals for external attachments, the integrated assembly can be approved as part of the overall switchgear system, reducing regulatory complexity.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If voltage divider is installed inside switchgear, then safety is improved and insulation material is reduced, but installation space is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage divider assembly is nested within the switchgear compartment, utilizing the existing internal space. The connecting means is inserted into the compartment, and the impedance elements are arranged compactly in series, thereby minimizing the volume required while improving safety by eliminating external attachments.
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 allows for precise voltage sensing within the switchgear, enhancing safety and reducing the need for additional insulation, while minimizing the risk of electrical discharges and streamlining regulatory approvals by integrating the voltage divider assembly within the switchgear's internal compartment.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of discrete impedance elements, electrically connected (i) with the conductive portion of the connecting means and (ii) in series with each other such as to be operable as a high-voltage side of the voltage-dividing sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
Voltage divider assembly (1) for installation on a power conductor (100) inside a MV/HV switchgear in a power network of a national grid, operable to divide a voltage of the power conductor in a voltage-dividing sensor for sensing a voltage of the power conductor. The voltage divider assembly comprises a) conductive connecting means (180) for mechanically and electrically connecting the voltage divider assembly to the power conductor (100); and b) discrete impedance elements, electrically connected with the connecting means and in series with each other such as to be operable as a high-voltage side of the voltage-dividing sensor.