High voltage DC contactor hybrid without a DC arc break
US7538990B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 14, 2006 |
| Grant date | May 26, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 14, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H2009/544
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus, and a method of opening and closing electrical power feed lines using a hybrid contactor, which combines a traditional set of mechanical main contacts with a high voltage solid state switch. The solid state switch provides a parallel current path around the main contacts. When the main contacts are to be opened or closed, the solid state switch is first closed, diverting current away from the main contacts to prevent arc formation when the main contacts are being opened or closed. Once the main contacts are opened or closed, the solid state switch is opened, as the parallel current path is no longer needed. Optional auxiliary contacts are connected in series with the solid state switch to provide galvanic isolation between an input terminal and an output terminal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.