Switching device for a train

Abstract

The invention relates to a switching device for a train, arranged in the current path between a battery module of the train itself and an on-board power supply of the train, comprising a power input (15) on the battery module side, a power output (16) on the on-board power supply side, a fuse holder (13) accommodating a fuse protecting the power output (16), and a switching contact (23) arranged between the power input (15) and the power output (16), and further comprising an operating element (19) for actuating the switching contact (23), a locking element (32) interacting with the operating element (19), a first safety element (17) having two possible end positions, and a second safety element (18) having two possible end positions, wherein the first safety element (17) is configured to lock the locking element (32) in a position in which it cannot be moved to release the operating element (19) when the switching contact (23) is closed, and wherein the second safety element (18) is configured to move the locking element (32) to a position in which it locks the operating element (19) when the switching contact (23) is open.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a switching device for a train, arranged in the current path between the train's own battery module and the train's onboard power supply. Furthermore, this invention relates to a method for electrically disconnecting the current path between the battery module and the train's onboard power supply using a switching device arranged in the current path. Background Technology

[0002] The aforementioned types of general switching devices, especially those for trains, are well known in the prior art, and therefore no separate written evidence is required here.

[0003] According to existing technology, the train's own battery module is used to power the train's onboard power supply. The battery module and the onboard power supply are operably electrically connected via a current path.

[0004] Battery modules are typically designed as lithium-ion battery modules and have multiple electrically interconnected lithium-ion batteries. The train's onboard power supply also includes several separate components, typically a battery management system and at least one electrical device. The battery modules and the onboard power supply, which are operatively electrically connected to them, together constitute the onboard voltage system.

[0005] According to existing technology, trains typically have two onboard voltage systems. The first voltage system is specifically used to power the train-side computer systems and / or train control systems. The second voltage system powers all other systems of the train and enables the train to move even in the absence of an external power source (e.g., on non-electrified lines or in emergency situations).

[0006] According to existing technology, in order to supply voltage to two vehicle voltage systems, two separate battery modules are set up, namely, a first battery module that supplies power to the first vehicle voltage system and a second battery module that supplies power to the second vehicle voltage system.

[0007] A switching device is arranged in the current path between the battery module and the associated on-board power supply. This switching device is used to disconnect the operable electrical connection between the battery module and the associated on-board power supply when necessary. According to existing technology, a disconnecting switch is typically used as such a switching device.

[0008] Known disconnect switches are specifically designed to electrically disconnect the battery module from the associated vehicle power source, allowing users to safely perform maintenance work on both the battery module and the battery management system. Furthermore, fuses can be safely replaced when the current path between the battery module and the vehicle power source is broken.

[0009] While known disconnecting switches have proven their effectiveness in everyday practical use, there is still room for improvement. In particular, it is desirable to reliably prevent unintended switching of disconnecting switches. In view of the above, one object of the present invention is to further develop a switching device in terms of structure, so as to ensure both safe operation and ease of operation. Summary of the Invention

[0010] To achieve this objective, a switching device for a train is proposed, which is arranged in the current path between the train's own battery module and the train's on-board power supply. The device includes: a power input terminal on the battery module side, a power output terminal on the on-board power supply side, a fuse holder housing a fuse for protecting the power output terminal, and a switch contact arranged between the power input terminal and the power output terminal. It also includes an operating element for actuating the switch contact, a locking element interacting with the operating element, a first safety element having two possible positions, and a second safety element having two possible positions. The first safety element is configured to lock the locking element in a position where it cannot move to release the operating element when the switch contact is closed, and the second safety element is configured to move the locking element to a position where it locks the operating element when the switch contact is open.

[0011] Furthermore, to achieve the above objectives, a method is proposed for electrically disconnecting the current path between the battery module and the train's onboard power supply via a switching device arranged in the current path. This method involves actuating a first fuse element and moving a locking element interacting with it to a position to release an operating element, the operating element being operatively connected to a switch contact of the switching device; actuating the operating element and moving the switch contact to an open position to electrically disconnect the current path; and moving a second locking element and a locking element interacting with it to a position where the return movement of the operating element is locked when the switch contact is in the open state.

[0012] The switching device according to the invention has a power input terminal on the battery module side and a power output terminal on the vehicle power supply side. In the final assembled state, the switching device is arranged in the current path between the battery module and the vehicle power supply. For this purpose, the battery module is electrically coupled to the switching device through the provided power input terminal, and the vehicle power supply is electrically connected to the power output terminal of the switching device. The vehicle power supply can preferably be the train's traction power grid, in which case the battery module operably connected to it is a high-voltage battery module suitable for traction.

[0013] The switching device also has a fuse holder for accommodating at least one fuse. This fuse is used to protect the power output. Under intended use, multiple fuses are arranged in the fuse holder of the switching device.

[0014] The switching device also includes a switch contact. This switch contact is positioned between the power input and power output terminals. The switch contact can be open or closed. If the switch contact is open, the current path is electrically interrupted; if the switch contact is closed, the current path is not electrically interrupted. Because the switch contact is electrically positioned between the power input and power output terminals, the current path can be opened or closed by the switching device depending on the position of the switch contact. With the switching device in place, the battery module electrically connected to the vehicle power supply can only supply power to the vehicle power supply when the switch contact is closed.

[0015] The switching device also has an operating element for actuating the switch contacts. This operating element can be manually actuated by the user, allowing the user to switch the switch contacts as needed, i.e., move them from the open position to the closed position or vice versa.

[0016] The switching device also has two safety elements, namely a first safety element and a second safety element. Both safety elements can be moved to two possible positions independently. In each case, the user is allowed to move the safety element from one possible position to the other and vice versa.

[0017] According to the invention, a first safety element is configured to lock a locking element in a position where it cannot be moved to release the operating element when the switch contacts are closed. In the first position of the locking element, the operating element cannot be actuated by the user. It is fixed in position by the locking element and therefore cannot move freely. In the first position, the safety element is used to lock the locking element in a position that does not release the operating element, i.e., the locking element cannot be moved to the position of releasing the operating element without first actuating the associated safety element. This position of the locking element and the safety element is given when the switch contacts are closed. This position is generally the so-called normal position, where the current path is closed, i.e., the train's onboard power is supplied by the battery module electrically connected to it. In this normal position, it is not possible to break the current path by manually actuating the operating element that interacts with the switch contacts because the operating element is locked by the locking element. However, it is not easy to release the operating element by actuating the locking element because the locking element is locked by the safety element. Therefore, the safety element must be actuated first so that the locking element can then be actuated, thereby releasing the operating element. The operable electrical connection between the battery module and the vehicle power source can only be disconnected by manually actuating the operating element to activate the switch contacts that interact with the operating element after the operating element has been released.

[0018] This structural design ensures that the electrical connection between the battery module and the vehicle's power supply will not be unexpectedly disconnected. It also provides simple operation; users only need to ensure that the correct operating sequence of the safety, locking, and operating components is followed. This also prevents misoperation and contributes to overall safe operation.

[0019] According to the invention, a second safety element is also proposed to move the locking element to the position of the locking operating element when the switch contacts are open.

[0020] If the switch contacts open due to prior actuation of the operating element, the vehicle power supply is cut off because the current path between the battery module and the vehicle power supply is electrically interrupted. In this position of the switch contacts, the user can safely perform maintenance work, particularly on the battery management system, replace fuses in the fuse holder of the switching device, and / or perform other maintenance work on the battery module and / or the vehicle power supply. To ensure that the operating element is not accidentally actuated, causing the switch contacts to move from the open position to the closed position, the locking element must be moved to the position where the operating element is locked. In this locked position, the operating element cannot return to its closed switch contact position because it is blocked by the locking element. However, the locking element can only be moved to this locked operating element position if the second fuse element has been pre-acted. The locking element can only be moved to another position if the second fuse element has first moved from its first position to its second position. Once the operating element is locked by the locking element and cannot be actuated when the switch contacts are open, the second fuse element provides additional protection, ensuring that the operating element cannot be released by moving the locking element without first actuating the second fuse element. This also ensures safe operation in a favorable manner while allowing for ease of use. In particular, it ensures that no unwanted electrical connection is established between the battery module and the vehicle power source during maintenance or repair work and / or fuse replacement. Instead, the second fuse element must be actuated first, followed by the locking element, before the operating element can be released and actuated to move the switch contacts to the closed position.

[0021] The switching device according to the invention advantageously combines the fuse holder and switch contacts for holding the fuse in a single device. This allows for pre-configuration, so at the installation site, only an electrical connection to the current path is required via a power input terminal provided on one side of the device and a power output terminal provided on the other side. Furthermore, the switching device according to the invention structurally provides a safety concept that substantially prevents misoperation or at least prevents unintended misoperation. The structural implementation of this safety concept is an integral part of the switching device according to the invention, which simplifies assembly and disassembly while ensuring safe operation during normal operation.

[0022] In terms of method, to electrically disconnect the current path between the battery module and the train's onboard power supply via a switching device arranged in the current path, it is proposed to first actuate a first safety element. A locking element interacting with it can then be moved to a position that releases the operating element operably connected to the switching contacts of the switching device. Therefore, the locking element can only be actuated when the first safety element has been moved to the position provided for this purpose, thus releasing the operating element. Only when the operating element is released can the user actuate it, subsequently causing actuation of the switching contacts of the switching device interacting with it.

[0023] When the switch contacts are open, i.e., when the operating element has been pre-activated as intended, the second safety element must be subsequently activated in the final step of the method. This causes the locking element interacting with it to move to a position where the operating element is locked and cannot return to its original position; that is, the operating element cannot unexpectedly return to its initial position, thus actuating the switch contacts. Therefore, the actuation of the second safety element serves to lock the operating element in the open position of the switch contacts by means of the locking element provided for this purpose, making it impossible to move the switch contacts to the closed position by means of the operating element.

[0024] The method described above according to the invention provides advantages already explained based on the switching device according to the invention. In particular, it provides simplified operation while ensuring safe operation.

[0025] According to a further feature of the invention, the switching device has a housing comprising a base and a cover removably disposed thereon by a corresponding fastening device. The housing of the switching device houses the aforementioned components of the switching device. The structural unit is created in a way that facilitates operation, and therefore also facilitates assembly and disassembly. The housing provides the base on one side and the cover on the other. The base has a corresponding volumetric space for accommodating the components of the switching device according to the invention. The base has an opening side for access to the volumetric space. When fully assembled, this opening side is closed by the cover removably disposed on the base. Suitable fastening devices (e.g., screws) are used to removably attach the cover to the base.

[0026] To access the volumetric space provided by the base, the cover of the base must be removed. To do this, the fasteners provided for this purpose must first be removed. Particularly preferred is that the fuse holder, along with the fuse it holds, is covered by the cover. Therefore, when the cover is removed, the user can access the fuse holder and the fuse it houses. This makes fuse replacement easy, as it only requires removing the cover from the base, replacing the fuse, and then reattaching the cover to the base.

[0027] According to a further feature of the invention, the free accessibility of the fastener is sealed off by the operating element when the switch contacts are closed. This provides an additional safety measure. Because as long as the operating element remains in the so-called normal position, in which the switch contacts are closed, it is impossible to access the fastener through the operating element itself. Therefore, this design ensures that the fastener used to attach the cover to the base is inaccessible when the operating element is in the normal position. In particular, it is therefore unsafe to replace the fuse when the operating element is in the normal position.

[0028] According to a further feature of the invention, in this case, the fastener is covered by the operating element when the switch contacts are closed. The restriction of accessibility to the fastener by the operating element is preferably achieved by the operating element covering the fastener when the switch contacts are closed. Therefore, accessibility to the fastener is restricted because the operating element itself prevents access to the fastener. This ensures increased operational safety with a simple design.

[0029] According to a further feature of the invention, the operating element is proposed to be a lever pivotally arranged on the base of the housing. In intended use, this lever can be easily grasped by the user and moved from a first position to a second position, and vice versa. The first position is, for example, the normal position with the switch contacts closed. In the second position, the lever is in the open position, where the switch contacts are open, thus disconnecting the electrical connection between the battery module and the vehicle power source.

[0030] According to a further feature of the invention, a lever is provided having a first pivot arm, a second pivot arm, and a lever handle disposed between the two pivot arms. This design gives the lever a robust structure. In particular, two pivot arms are provided, which enable precise and dual guidance of the movement of the lever handle coupled to the pivot arms. The lever handle extends like a rod between the two pivot arms, which ensures that when the lever is in its normal position, the fasteners that detachably connect the cover to the base are securely covered.

[0031] According to a further feature of the invention, the operating element interacts with the switch contacts via an intermediate transmission mechanism. Therefore, the operating element operably connected to the switch contacts does not act directly on the switch contacts, but rather indirectly through the intermediate transmission mechanism. This allows force to be directed to the switch contacts for switching purposes, while ensuring a compact overall design of the switching device according to the invention.

[0032] According to a further feature of the invention, in this context, a transmission device is proposed having a force transmission device on the operating element side and a mating member interacting therewith, wherein the mating member is a switch contact component of a switching device whose switching contacts are movably housed by a housing and supports the switching contacts of the switching device.

[0033] The switch contact provided according to the present invention has two switch contact components. If these two components are in a valid electrical connection, the switch contact is closed. Otherwise, the switch contact is open.

[0034] One of the two switch contact components is supported by a mating member operably connected to the force transmission device. Therefore, when the mating member moves under the force of the force transmission device, this causes relative displacement of the two switch contact components with respect to each other, resulting in the switch contacts being opened. The mating member is preferably spring-loaded, and thus will inevitably return to the normal position where the two switch contact components are electrically connected and therefore the switch contacts are closed.

[0035] The force transmission device is formed on the operating element side. Therefore, it moves due to the force applied by the user to the operating element. The applied force is thus transmitted to the mating element via the force transmission device, causing the mating element to move and resulting in the separation of the two switch contact components. The result is a robust yet precise switching arrangement.

[0036] According to a further feature of the invention, in this context, the mating member is movably received by a guide groove. The mating member moves due to the application of a force, wherein the movement of the mating member is guided by the guide groove. Therefore, in intended use, the mating member describes a predetermined movement path based on the guidance predetermined by the guide groove. This also supports precise and robust switch contact designs.

[0037] According to a further feature of the invention, the locking element is designed as two parts, having a first movable locking slider and a second movable locking slider. The two locking sliders are used to enable or disable the operation of the operating element based on their positions. The two locking sliders can operate independently of each other, so that when the switch contacts are closed, the operating element can be either released or locked in its position via one locking slider, and when the switch contacts are open, it can also be locked in its position or released for movement via the other locking slider.

[0038] According to a further feature of the invention, a first locking slider interacts with a first safety element and a first pivot arm, and a second locking slider interacts with a second safety element and a second pivot arm.

[0039] The first locking slider interacts with the first pivot arm of the lever. Depending on the position of the locking slider, the pivot arm is either locked or unlocked during its movement, and thus the lever itself, as the actuating element, is also unlocked. Whether the locking slider can move depends on the position of the first locking element. If the locking slider is released by the locking element, the locking slider can move accordingly and release or not release the actuating element. Otherwise, the locking slider is locked by the first locking element, preventing the locking slider from moving freely. This applies accordingly to the second locking slider, which interacts with the second locking element and the second pivot arm.

[0040] According to a further feature of the invention, the locking element is a key-operated lock cylinder. Therefore, actuating the locking element requires the user to have the correct key to operate the lock cylinder. This also provides an additional security measure, as unauthorized personnel cannot actuate the locking element.

[0041] According to a further feature of the invention, the first locking slider, the first pivot arm, or the first safety element is designed to interact with a sensor (preferably a microswitch). The sensor is advantageously configured to detect the position of the locking slider, particularly the one interacting with the first pivot arm and the first safety element. Alternatively, the first pivot arm or the first safety element can also be detected by the sensor. The sensor's detection of the first locking slider can provide a corresponding display to the user and / or enable the switching of the second locking slider only when the desired position of the first locking slider has been detected by the sensor. This advantageously provides an additional increase in operational safety.

[0042] According to a further feature of the invention, a temperature sensor is provided, preferably mounted in a housing and positioned near the switch contacts. If a temperature higher than a predetermined set temperature is detected, the temperature sensor can automatically disconnect the current path or issue an alarm signal to remind the user that the current path needs to be disconnected. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Further features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0044] Figure 1 This is a purely schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the switching device according to the present invention;

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view of the switching device according to the present invention;

[0046] Figure 3 It is based on Figure 2 A top view of the switching device;

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view of the operating element of the switching device according to the present invention in the first position;

[0048] Figure 5 It is based on Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of the operating element in the second position;

[0049] Figure 6 This is a schematic top view of the operating element of the switching device according to the present invention in the first position;

[0050] Figure 7 It is based on Figure 6 A schematic top view of the operating element in the second position; and

[0051] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart of the method according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the arrangement of the switching device 5 according to the invention in the current path 4 of the train 1 is shown.

[0053] from Figure 1 As shown in the illustration, the train 1, which is only schematically shown, has a battery module 2 on one hand and an on-board power supply 3 on the other. In the illustrated embodiment, the on-board power supply 3 includes a battery management system 6 and electrical equipment 7. Alternatively, the battery management system 6 can be designed separately from the on-board power supply 3. In particular, the battery management system 6 can preferably be designed as a component of the battery module 2, or the battery module 2 and the battery management system 6 can be combined into a single unit. The on-board power supply 3 can particularly be the traction power grid, i.e., the on-board power supply of a high-voltage system.

[0054] The train's own battery module 2 is electrically connected to the train 1's onboard power supply 3 via current path 4. According to the invention, a switching device 5 is integrated into the current path 4. The current path 4 can be interrupted by the switching device 5, that is, the electrical connection between the battery module 2 and the onboard power supply 3 can be disconnected by the switching device 5 according to the invention.

[0055] from Figures 2 to 7 Further combined views show the design of the switching device 5 according to the present invention.

[0056] from Figure 2 and Figure 3 As can be seen, the switching device 5 has a housing 8. The housing 8 has a base 9 and a cover 10. The cover 10 is detachably disposed on the base 9 by fasteners including screws 12.

[0057] The housing 8 of the switching device 5 also provides a power input terminal 15 and a power output terminal 16. In intended use, the battery module 2 is connected to the power input terminal 15, and the vehicle power supply 3 is connected to the power output terminal 16.

[0058] The switching device 5 also has a fuse holder 13, which, when finally assembled, is housed by the housing 8 and houses a fuse protecting the power output terminal 16. After removing the cover 10 from the base 9, the user can access the fuse housed in the fuse holder 13. For this, the screws 12 must first be removed. The cover 10 can then pivot relative to the base 9 about a pivot axis defined by the extension 11 of the cover, allowing the extension 11 to be released from a corresponding opening in the base 9. When the cover 10 is removed, the fuse can be replaced or replaced, particularly in the illustrated embodiment. Figure 3In the middle, it is only schematically visible through the opening 14 provided by the cover 10.

[0059] After replacing the fuse and / or performing maintenance, the cover 10 can be put back in place to re-close the housing 8 in the reverse order: first, insert the extension 11 of the cover 10 into the corresponding opening in the base, then pivot the cover 10 toward the base 9, and finally insert and tighten the screw 12.

[0060] The switching device 5 also has safety elements, namely a first safety element 17 and a second safety element 18. In the illustrated embodiment, safety elements 17 and 18 are each designed as lock cylinders, meaning that safety elements 17 and 18 are operated by a key.

[0061] The switching device 5 provides a switch contact 23 housed in the housing 8, which will be described in more detail below. The switch contact 23 is actuated by a user via an operating element 19, which in the illustrated embodiment is a lever.

[0062] Figure 3 The top view also shows two measuring sockets 40 and 41, arranged between two fuse elements 17 and 18. Measuring sockets 40 and 41 are used for optional connection of a voltage tester. A standard voltage tester can be used for this purpose. In intended use, the voltage tester connected to the switching device 5 is specifically used to detect no voltage when switch contact 23 is open. When switch contact 23 is closed, the voltage tester can detect the voltage applied as specified. Alternatively, instead of the two measuring sockets 40 and 41, the voltage tester can also be integrated into the switching device 5. In this case, the housing 8 provides a corresponding voltage display.

[0063] from Figure 4 and Figure 5 As can be seen in the combined view, lever 19 is pivotally arranged on the base 9 of housing 8 and has a first pivot arm 20 and a second pivot arm 21. A lever handle 22 in the form of a rod is arranged between the two pivot arms 20 and 21. This lever handle is gripped by the user during normal use, which enables the relative pivoting movement of lever 19 relative to housing 8.

[0064] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As further shown, lever 19 also has a rod 28 connecting the two pivoting arms 20 and 21, which is formed opposite to lever handle 22. In normal use, lever 19 pivots about an axis of rotation defined by rod 28.

[0065] Lever 19 interacts with switch contact 23 provided by switching device 5. A transmission device 26 is provided for this purpose, such as from... Figure 4 and 5 This can be particularly evident from the combined view.

[0066] The transmission mechanism 26 has a force transmission device 27 on the lever side. This is composed of a rod 28 and a cam element 29 supported by the rod 28. The transmission mechanism 26 also has a mating member 30 on the switch contact side, which interacts with the cam element 29. Under intended use, the lever 19... Figure 4 The location shown is to Figure 5 The pivoting motion at the indicated position causes the cam element 29 to rotate about the rotation axis provided by the rod 28, resulting in the mating member 30 interacting with the cam element 29 moving within the guide groove 31.

[0067] Switch contact 23 has two switch contact components 24 and 25. Switch contact component 25 is supported by mating member 30. If lever 19 pivots during normal use... Figure 5 At the position shown, the switch contact component 25 moves together with the mating component 30, causing the two switch contact components 24 and 25 to separate from each other. Therefore, in Figure 5 In the position shown, switch contact 23 is open, while... Figure 4 The switch contact 23 is closed in the position shown.

[0068] The rotational movement of lever 19 can be locked by locking element 32 provided by switching device 5. Regarding this, from... Figure 6 and 7 As can be seen from the combined view, the locking element 32 is designed as a two-part unit with a first locking slider 33 and a second locking slider 34. Both sliders 33 and 34 can be translated to the locked position and the released position, respectively. The first locking slider 33 interacts with the first pivot arm 20 of the lever 19, and the second locking slider 34 interacts with the second pivot arm 21 of the lever 19.

[0069] Figure 6 The lever 19 is shown when the switch contact 23 is closed, i.e., when... Figure 2 , 3 The position shown in Figure 4. In this position of lever 19, the first locking slider 33 can move from the position of locking lever 19 to the position of releasing lever 19. Figure 6 The position of the locking slider 33 of the locking lever 19 is shown. In this position of the lever 19, it is impossible to move the second locking slider 34.

[0070] Figure 7 The lever 19 is shown when the contact 23 is open, i.e., in Figure 5 The location can also be seen. At this location, lever 19... Figure 4 The position shown is relative to Figure 4 The drawing plane shown is pivoted to the right, that is, relative to... Figure 2The drawing plane shown is pivoted upwards. In this position of lever 19, the second locking slider 34 can move from the position of releasing lever 19 to the position of locking lever 19, and vice versa. Figure 7 The position of the second locking slider 34 is shown, in which the pivoting movement of lever 19 is locked. In this position of lever 19, the first locking slider 33 cannot move.

[0071] exist Figure 6 and 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the first locking slider 33 interacts with a sensor 37 in the form of a microswitch. When the first locking slider 33 is in the position of the locking lever 19, the microswitch 37 is closed. Once the locking slider moves to... Figure 7 At the indicated position, microswitch 37 is turned on and provides a corresponding signal.

[0072] Figure 6 and 7 Also shown are safety elements 17 and 18, each designed as a lock cylinder. Each safety element 17 and 18 has a latch element 35 and 36, which locks or releases the movement of the associated locking slider 33 or 34 depending on the key position of the key that interacts with the respective safety element. Figure 6 The position of the first locking element 17 is shown, according to which the first locking slider 33 is locked by the latch element 35, thereby causing the first locking slider 33 to... Figure 6 The location shown is to Figure 7 Displacement at the indicated position is prevented.

[0073] The same situation can be seen in the attached figure regarding the second safety element 18. Figure 7 The position of the second locking slider 34 is shown, in which the movement of the lever 19 is locked when the switch contact 23 is open. The movement of the second locking element 34 is also locked because it is locked by the pin element 36 of the second safety element 18. The locking slider 34 can only be released when the safety element 18 is actuated and the pin element 36 disengages from the locking slider 34. Figure 7 Move to the position shown Figure 6 At the position shown, lever 19 is also released.

[0074] The switching device 5 described above allows the following operations.

[0075] Figures 2 to 4 and Figure 6 The switching device 5 in its normal position is shown. In this normal position, lever 19 is closed and locked, and switch contact 23 is closed. Therefore, the switching device 5 can conduct current from battery module 2 to vehicle power supply 3.

[0076] If maintenance, repair, or fuse replacement is required for the switching device 5, the current flow to the vehicle power supply 3 must be interrupted. This requires switching the switch contacts 23 by actuating lever 19.

[0077] In order to actuate lever 19, locking slider 33 must be moved to the position where lever 19 is released. To do this, the user must insert the appropriate key into safety element 17 and rotate it 90°, causing the corresponding pin element 35 of the first safety element 17 to disengage from the first locking slider 33. Once this is done, locking slider 33 can be moved to release lever 19. Simultaneously, microswitch 37 opens and sends a signal to the vehicle power supply 3 to indicate that lever 19 is unlocked. The user can now open lever 19 and move it to... Figure 5 and Figure 7 The terminal position is shown. Therefore, switch contact 23 is open, thereby disconnecting the current path 4 between battery module 2 and vehicle power supply 3. The mechanical separation of the two switch contact components 24 and 25 of switch contact 23 can be detected by a sensor, so a signal can be sent to vehicle power supply 3 to indicate that switch contact 23 is open.

[0078] In a further step, the user now actuates the second locking element 18. According to the illustrated embodiment, a lock cylinder 18 is used for this purpose, which interacts with the second locking slider 34 via its pin element 36. In the locked position, the second locking slider 34 engages with the lever 19, preventing the lever 19 from pivoting in this position of the locking slider 34. This reliably prevents the lever 19 from pivoting back to its initial position, for example as... Figure 2 As shown. Due to the position of the second safety element 18, in Figure 7 The second locking slider 34 cannot be moved in the position shown, which means that the lever 19 is reliably fixed in its position.

[0079] exist Figure 7 In the position shown for the second locking element 18, it is preferably impossible to turn or remove the key inserted into the lock cylinder 17 because it is locked in that position. It is also impossible to turn and remove the second locking element 18 when the lever is closed because the lever is locked in that lever position.

[0080] As from Figure 2 and 3 The combined view also shows that when lever 19 is in its normal position, screw 12 of cover 10 is not accessible. Therefore, screw 12 is only accessible when lever 19 is moved to its normal position. Figure 5 When the circuit is disconnected as shown, removing the cover 10 is necessary to access the fuse holder 13. Figure 5 The current path 4 at the location shown is disconnected.

[0081] As from Figure 2 and 3The combined view also shows that the switching device 5 may have a connector 38 for connecting a data cable. Additionally, a connector 39 may be provided for connecting an auxiliary power path, such as an auxiliary path for supplying auxiliary power to one of the two voltage networks of the vehicle power supply 3. The output provided for this purpose is preferably protected by a fuse provided by fuse holder 13.

[0082] Figure 8 An example of the method flow according to the invention is illustrated purely schematically. Switching state SZ 1 is the starting point. In this switching state, switch contact 23 is closed, and battery module 2 is operatively electrically connected to vehicle power supply 3 via current path 4. To disconnect current path 4, the first safety element 17 must first be operated according to method step 100, for which the corresponding key is inserted into lock cylinder 17 and turned. The first locking slider 33 is now released and moved, thus a corresponding signal is transmitted through microswitch 37. Therefore, switching state SZ 2 is presented.

[0083] According to method step 101, lever 19 is now pivoted on the operator side. It then presents switching state SZ 3, in which switch contact 23 is open. Lever 19 is not yet fixed in this position.

[0084] According to method step 102, lever 19 is secured by actuating the second safety element 18. This results in a switching state SZ4, in which the switch contacts are secured in the open position. In this case, "secured" means that lever 19 cannot unexpectedly pivot back in the manner described above.

[0085] According to method step 103, the screw 12, which is accessible when the lever 19 is pivoted, can now be reached and removed by the user, so the fuse can be replaced according to the switching state SZ 5 after the cover 10 is removed.

[0086] In order to return from switching state SZ 5 to the normal state according to switching state SZ 1, the above process must be performed in reverse order according to method steps 200 to 203.

[0087] Figure Labels

[0088] 1 train

[0089] 2 battery modules

[0090] 3 Vehicle power supply

[0091] 4 Current Path

[0092] 5 Switching device

[0093] 6 Battery Management System

[0094] 7 Electrical equipment

[0095] 8 casings

[0096] 9 matrix

[0097] 10 caps

[0098] 11 Extension

[0099] 12 Fastening components (screws)

[0100] 13 Fuse Holders

[0101] 14 openings

[0102] 15 Power Input Terminal

[0103] 16 power output terminals

[0104] 17. First safety element (lock cylinder)

[0105] 18. Second safety element (lock cylinder)

[0106] 19. Operating elements (lever)

[0107] 20 First pivot arm

[0108] 21 Second pivot arm

[0109] 22 lever handle

[0110] 23 switch contacts

[0111] 24 switch contact components

[0112] 25 Switch contact components

[0113] 26 Transmission device

[0114] 27 Force Transmission Device

[0115] 28 strokes

[0116] 29 Cam Elements

[0117] 30 pairs

[0118] 31 guide groove

[0119] 32 locking elements

[0120] 33 First locking slider

[0121] 34 Second locking slider

[0122] 35 pin components

[0123] 36 pin components

[0124] 37 Sensors (Microswitches)

[0125] 38 connectors

[0126] 39 connectors

[0127] 40 Measuring Socket

[0128] 41 Measuring socket

[0129] Methods and steps from 100 to 103

[0130] Method steps 200 to 203

[0131] Switching between states 1 and 5 in SZ 1 to SZ 5

Claims

1. A switching device for a train, arranged in the current path between the train's own battery module and the train's onboard power supply, comprising: The device includes a power input terminal (15) on the battery module side, a power output terminal (16) on the vehicle power supply side, a fuse holder (13) for housing a fuse protecting the power output terminal (16), and a switch contact (23) arranged between the power input terminal (15) and the power output terminal (16). It also includes an operating element (19) for actuating the switch contact (23), a locking element (32) interacting with the operating element (19), a first safety element (17) capable of presenting two possible positions, and a second safety element (18) capable of presenting two possible positions, wherein the first safety element (17) is configured to lock the locking element (32) in a position that prevents it from moving to release the operating element (19) when the switch contact (23) is closed, and wherein the second safety element (18) is configured to move the locking element (32) to the position that locks the operating element (19) when the switch contact (23) is open.

2. The switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Includes an outer casing (8), which includes a base (9) and a cover (10) detachably disposed on the base (9) by a corresponding fastening device (12).

3. The switching device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The free accessibility of the fastening device (12) is closed by the operating element (19).

4. The switching device according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the switch contact (23) is closed, the fastening element (12) is covered by the operating element (19).

5. The switching device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The fuse holder (13) is covered by the cover (10).

6. The switching device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, The operating element (19) is a lever pivotally arranged on the base (9) of the housing (8).

7. The switching device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The lever (19) has a first pivot arm (20), a second pivot arm (21), and a lever handle (22) arranged between the two pivot arms (20, 21).

8. The switching device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The operating element (19) interacts with the switch contact (23) via an intermediate transmission device (26).

9. The switching device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The transmission device (26) has a force transmission device (27) on the operating element side and a mating member (30) interacting therewith, wherein the mating member (30) is movably housed in the housing (8) and supports the switch contact component (25) of the switch contact (23).

10. The switching device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The mating member (30) is movably accommodated by the guide groove (31).

11. The switching device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The locking element (32) is designed as two parts and has a first movable locking slider (33) and a second movable locking slider (34).

12. The switching device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first locking slider (33) interacts with the first safety element (17) and the first pivot arm (20), and the second locking slider (34) interacts with the second safety element (18) and the second pivot arm (21).

13. The switching device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The safety elements (17, 18) are key-operated lock cylinders.

14. The switching device according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The first locking slider (33), the first pivot arm (20), or the first safety element (17) interacts with the sensor, preferably the micro switch (37).

15. A method for electrically disconnecting the current path (4) between the battery module (2) of a train (1) and the on-board power supply (3) by means of a switching device (5) arranged in the current path (4), -The actuation of the first safety element (17) moves the locking element (32) interacting with it to a position that releases the operating element (19) operably connected to the switch contact (23) of the switching device (5). - wherein the operating element (19) is actuated and the switch contact (23) is moved to the open position to electrically disconnect the current path (4), and When the switch contact (23) is open, the second safety element (18) and the locking element (32) interacting with it move to a position that locks the operating element (19) so that it cannot return.

Images