Lester C Via

Title: Lester C Via: Innovator in High-Speed Actuation and Circuit Interruption

Introduction

Lester C Via is a notable inventor based in Springfield, Virginia, who has made significant contributions to the fields of high-speed actuation and circuit interruption. With a total of three patents to his name, Via's work showcases innovative solutions that enhance the performance and reliability of mechanical and electrical systems.

Latest Patents

One of Lester C Via's latest patents is a high-speed actuating device and circuit breaker. This device is designed for rapidly moving mechanically actuated devices, such as switches and valves, achieving sub-millisecond response times with moving masses exceeding one kilogram. The technology allows for response times that approach those of explosively actuated devices while maintaining the repetitive cycling capability of non-explosively operated devices. The mechanism utilizes electrical energy stored in a capacitor, which pulses through electrodes and the closed and open ends of a capillary tube to rapidly heat a gas, raising its pressure to a thousand atmospheres or more. This high-pressure gas acts on a piston, accelerating it for a short distance before the pressure is vented around the piston to quickly reduce the drive force. A hydraulic damping device brings the moving piston to a stop, while a reset device prepares the system for the next operation.

Another significant patent by Via is a switch contact device for interrupting high current, high voltage AC and DC circuits. This high voltage switch contact structure is capable of effectively interrupting high voltage, high current circuits. The design confines the arc created when contacts open to a thin area between two insulating surfaces in intimate contact. This innovative approach forces the arc into a thin sheet shape, which loses heat energy more rapidly than a circular arc column. As a result, the voltage required to maintain the arc increases dramatically, extinguishing it when the required voltage exceeds the available voltage. This arc extinguishing process does not depend on the occurrence of a current zero crossing, allowing for rapid interruption of both AC and DC circuits without the use of sulfur hexafluoride.

Career Highlights

Lester C Via is associated with Utron Inc., where he applies his expertise in developing advanced technologies. His work has significantly impacted the efficiency and safety of electrical systems.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Via has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Dennis W Massey and F Douglas Witherspoon, contributing to the advancement of innovative technologies