Wire-Rope Seismic Isolator for High-Voltage Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seismic isolation systems for high-voltage electric switches are ineffective in withstanding intense seismic events with complex compositions of simultaneous motions, as they are either complex to implement, limited in usability, or unable to handle traction stresses and rigid structures.
Innovation Solution
A seismic isolated base for high-voltage electric switches featuring a first metallic plate fixed to a basement and a second metallic plate with wire-rope dampers positioned between them, allowing for deformation in all three main directions to absorb seismic energy effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If common isolation systems (elastomer and friction pendulum type) are used, then seismic isolation is provided, but they cannot withstand traction stresses in slender structures with high centre of gravity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses wire-rope dampers that function as flexible tension-resistant elements. These wire-rope dampers can withstand both compression and traction stresses, unlike traditional elastomer isolators that fail under tension. The flexible wire-rope structure provides the necessary tensile strength while maintaining the isolation function.
Solution Approach 2:
The seismic isolation device combines multiple materials and mechanisms: wire-rope dampers for tension resistance, sliding planes for horizontal movement, and spring elements for vertical oscillation damping. This composite approach creates a system that can handle complex multi-directional seismic forces including traction stresses.
2Reliability
If isolation systems are designed for slender structures, then seismic isolation is achieved, but the systems become complex to implement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple isolation functions into a single integrated device. The wire-rope dampers, sliding planes, and spring elements work together as one unified seismic isolation device, eliminating the need for separate complex systems for different directions of seismic motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The seismic isolation device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides horizontal sliding isolation, vertical oscillation damping, and traction stress resistance. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity compared to using separate specialized isolators for each function.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional isolation systems are used, then simple implementation is possible, but they are not effective in high-intensity seismic events with complex motion compositions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic elements that adapt to different seismic conditions. The sliding planes allow horizontal movement during strong seismic events, while the spring elements provide vertical oscillation damping. The wire-rope dampers dynamically adjust to both compression and tension forces, making the system effective for complex multi-directional seismic motions.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolation device changes its mechanical parameters during seismic events. The sliding planes reduce friction during horizontal motion, the spring elements adjust their stiffness based on vertical displacement, and the wire-rope dampers transition between tension and compression states, optimizing performance for different phases of seismic activity.
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 effectively reduces inertial forces and increases the fundamental period of the structure, enhancing seismic qualification by significantly lowering acceleration and bending moments, thus providing robust seismic isolation without the need for complete replacement of the switch.
Implementation Method 1
allowing for deformation in all three main directions to absorb seismic energy effectively
Implementation Method 2
four dampers/isolators of the wire-rope type... mutually arranged at the vertices of a square, and oriented at a 45° angle relative to the sides of said first plate
Implementation Method 3
increases the fundamental period of the structure, enhancing seismic qualification by significantly lowering acceleration and bending moments
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 5
AI summary
A seismic isolation device is described, which is adapted for application to the base of a switch for a high-voltage electric system, characterized in that it comprises: - a first metallic plate (1), square in shape, adapted to be fixed to a basement; - a second metallic plate (2), adapted to be fixed to the switch base; - four dampers/isolators of the wire-rope type (3), connected between said first and second plates, mutually arranged at the vertices of a square, and oriented at a 45° angle relative to the sides of said first plate.