Description
The innovative design of the interVOLT Programmable voltage Sensing Relay (PSR) replaces traditional electro-mechanical relay devices used in 12/24 Volt DC applications by removing all mechanical parts to produce a completely solid state product with a myriad of added features. Although solid state relay devices are not new to the market, what sets the PSR apart is the efficiency of the topology, the high current load capacity, the many specialised capabilities of the circuit design, the compact nature of the product and most importantly the ability for the installer or user to program specific functions for ultimate flexibility in application.
Key Features
and/or Benefits
The PSR utilises high reliability (Hi-Rel) mosfets designed by semi conductor manufacturers specifically for electronic devices used in critical applications. The transport market is a primary example. The topology allows for the replacement of various electro-mechanical components such as solenoid coils, plunger actuators and contacts which are subject to failure through vibration, heat, fatigue and arcing. Due to the solid state technology the PSR, unlike many electro-mechanical devices, is not constrained by mounting position such as gravity assist solenoids which must be mounted vertically. Designed for 12 and 24 VDC vehicle, vessel and alternate energy applications.
Other solid state relay devices (SSRs) are generally not isolated between the switching and sensing contacts. They are therefore considered to have common potential, i.e. connectivity from input to output, usually in the form of a common negative. The PSR uses an adept design in the form of a miniature transformer (converter) to galvanically isolate the control side of the device from the power side. This permits the PSR to switch a different voltage and/or polarity from the sensing side making the device truly universal in application.
Unlike conventional voltage sensing relays, the PSR is programmable in terms of voltage, time delay and state. The device is designed to switch heavy DC loads or interconnect batteries at a voltage determined by the installer or user. The switching voltage can be set with high resolution and great accuracy due to the precision voltage reference integrated in the electronic design. Timing can be programmed to introduce hysteresis in order to prevent threshold switching. Additionally, the PSR can be set for normally open or normally closed operation, a great benefit in a singular device.
As the PSR is designed for use in harsh environments including marine, mining and alternative energy applications, only high quality, non-ferrous, materials are used in construction. The plastics are high impact, the housing is E coated diecast aluminium alloy and the terminations are tin plated copper and brass. All fasteners are 304 stainless steel for corrosion resistance. The overlay membrane is produced from polyester and applied with a UV protectant. The PSR is compact, robust and the electronics are environmentally sealed. Safety featues such as over temperature and low input voltage shutdown are inbuilt to protect the device.
Considerable attention was given to the aesthetic and ergonomic qualities of the PSR during the design phase. Emphasis was placed on achieving a balance between a design as compact as practicable, whilst ensuring ease of use and operation. With a footprint of only 86mm x 97mm and an overall profile of 81.5mm the PSR is very compact for a 150 amp continuously rated relay. The operator interface is used to program the various functions of the PSR in conjunction with the operator manual. The steps are reduced to a minimum and the operation is easily performed and intuitive.
