Vacuum Circuit Interrupters

Abstract

A vacuum interrupter assembly (30) is provided. The vacuum interrupter assembly (30) includes an operating mechanism (32), a vacuum chamber (34) including a plurality of bellows assemblies (100), a conductor assembly (36) including a first contact assembly (150A) and a second contact assembly (160), the first contact assembly (150A) including a lead post (152) and a contact member (154), the first contact assembly lead post (152) including an elongated body (156), the elongated body having a first proximal end (157), a middle portion (158) and a second distal end (159). The first contact assembly lead post body (156) has a reduced length. The first contact assembly lead post body having a reduced length generates less heat and resistance.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application with application date of January 27, 2017, application number 201780016490.6 (International Publication Number WO2017 / 172007), and invention name “Vacuum Circuit Interrupter”.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 084,871, filed on March 30, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] The disclosed and claimed concept relates to a vacuum circuit breaker, and more particularly to a vacuum circuit breaker in which a movable first contact assembly lead post body has a reduced length. Background Art

[0005] Circuit breakers and other such devices protect electrical systems from electrical leakage conditions, such as current overloads, short circuits, and low-level voltage conditions. In one embodiment, the circuit breaker includes a spring-powered operating mechanism that opens electrical contacts in response to an abnormal condition to interrupt the flow of current through conductors in the electrical system. In particular, vacuum circuit interrupters include separable main contacts that are disposed within an insulated and hermetically sealed vacuum chamber within a housing. Typically, the movable contact assembly is welded to a bellows that is part of the vacuum chamber. Therefore, replacing the movable contact assembly, i.e., changing the operating characteristics of the vacuum circuit breaker, requires destroying the vacuum chamber.

[0006] The contact is a part of an electrode including a lead post and a contact member. Typically, one of the electrodes is fixed relative to the housing. The other electrodes are movable relative to the housing and the other electrodes. In a vacuum circuit interrupter, a movable electrode assembly typically includes a copper lead post with a circular cross-section having a contact member enclosed at one end in a vacuum chamber and a drive mechanism at the other end outside the vacuum chamber. The length of the lead post of the movable contact is 50% longer, i.e., greater than half, than the length of the lead post partially disposed in the vacuum chamber housing. The quality of such a lead post requires a robust operating mechanism that can enhance such a lead post. That is, due to the quality of such a lead post, there is an increased cost in that the operating mechanism must be robust. Further, the cost of such a lead post is related to their material cost.

[0007] In one embodiment, the vacuum interrupter is used to interrupt medium voltage alternating current (AC) current of several thousand amperes or more and also high voltage AC current. In one embodiment, a vacuum interrupter is provided for each phase of a multiphase circuit, and the vacuum interrupters for several phases are actuated simultaneously by a common operating mechanism or individually or independently by a separable operating mechanism. The electrode can usually occupy three positions: closed, open and grounded.

[0008] When the electrode is in the closed position, the contact member is in electrical communication and current flows therethrough. In this configuration, the electrode heats up. Heat is first generated in the lead post of the electrode. That is, the lead post is elongated and typically has a smaller cross-sectional area than the contact member. Thus, the electricity flowing through the lead post generates heat and resistance. The amount of heat and resistance generated is a function of the cross-sectional area of ​​the lead post and the amount of current. That is, smaller electrodes and / or higher currents generate more heat. Accordingly, using conventional electrodes, in order to have a circuit breaker rated for higher currents, the electrodes must be larger.

[0009] However, larger electrodes have several disadvantages. For example, larger electrodes are more expensive and require a more robust operating mechanism, which is also more expensive. Further, a larger / more robust operating mechanism requires more energy to operate and is therefore more expensive to use. By way of example, an elongated movable contact assembly lead post has a considerable mass that requires a larger / more robust operating mechanism. If the elongated movable contact assembly lead post has less mass, a less robust operating mechanism can be utilized.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for an electrode that generates a reduced amount of heat and resistance. There is also a need for a vacuum circuit breaker in which the operating characteristics of the vacuum interrupter assembly can be changed without removing the movable contact assembly from the vacuum interrupter assembly. There is also a need for a vacuum circuit breaker that includes an actuator link member body with reduced mass. There is also a need for a lead post for a movable contact that has a reduced length and associated mass. Summary of the invention

[0011] These needs and other needs are met by at least one embodiment of the disclosed and claimed concepts, which provides a vacuum interrupter assembly comprising an operating mechanism, a vacuum chamber comprising a plurality of bellows assemblies, a conductor assembly comprising a first contact assembly and a second contact assembly, the first contact assembly comprising a lead post and a contact member, the first contact assembly lead post comprising an elongated body having a proximal first end, a middle portion, and a distal second end, the first contact assembly contact being coupled to and electrically connected to the first contact assembly lead post body second end, the first contact assembly contact being disposed in the vacuum chamber, the second contact assembly comprising a lead post and a contact member, the second contact assembly The assembly lead post comprises an elongated body having a proximal first end, a middle portion, and a distal second end, the second contact assembly contact being coupled to and in electrical communication with the second contact assembly lead post body second end, the second contact assembly contact being disposed in the vacuum chamber, the operating mechanism being operably coupled to the first contact assembly lead post body first end, wherein the first contact assembly contact is configured to move between a first position and a second position, wherein the first contact assembly contact is not directly coupled to the second contact assembly contact, and wherein the first contact assembly contact is coupled to and in electrical communication with the second contact assembly contact, and wherein the first contact assembly lead post body has a reduced length. The first contact assembly lead post body having a reduced length generates less heat and resistance.

[0012] Due to the use of a flexible connection assembly disposed inside the seal cup, the first contact assembly lead post body has a reduced length. That is, the use of the flexible connection assembly and its position between the first contact assembly and the associated terminal allow the first contact assembly lead post body to have a reduced length. That is, the use and position of the flexible connection assembly solve the above-mentioned problems. Further, in the case where the first contact assembly lead post body has a reduced length, the operating mechanism includes an elongated actuator link member that couples the first contact assembly lead post body to the operating mechanism. That is, the disclosed concept includes an elongated actuator link member body with reduced mass, rather than an elongated actuator link member body with a large number of elongated copper lead posts. This configuration also solves the above-mentioned problems. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] A full understanding of the present invention can be obtained from the following description of the preferred embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Figure 1is a schematic partial cross-sectional side view of a vacuum circuit breaker.

[0015] Figure 2 is a schematic partial cross-sectional front view of a vacuum circuit breaker.

[0016] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional front view of the vacuum interrupter assembly.

[0017] Figure 4A is a schematic top view of one embodiment of an anti-rotation assembly. Figure 4B is a schematic top view of another embodiment of an anti-rotation assembly. Figure 4C is a schematic top view of another embodiment of an anti-rotation assembly. Figure 4D is a schematic top view of another embodiment of an anti-rotation assembly.

[0018] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a flexible connection assembly.

[0019] Fig. 6A is an isometric view of one embodiment of a flexible connection assembly. Figure 6B is an isometric view of another embodiment of a flexible connection assembly. Figure 6C is an isometric view of another embodiment of a flexible connection assembly. Fig.6D is an isometric view of another embodiment of a flexible connection assembly.

[0020] Figure 7 is a flow chart of the disclosed method.

[0021] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment having two movable contact assemblies. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] It should be understood that the specific elements shown in the drawings herein and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concepts, which are provided as non-limiting examples for illustrative purposes. Therefore, the specific size, orientation, assembly, number, embodiment configuration of the components used, and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered to limit the scope of the disclosed concepts.

[0023] Directional phrases used herein, such as, for example, clockwise, counterclockwise, left, right, top, bottom, upward, downward and their derivatives, relate to the orientation of elements shown in the drawings and do not limit the claims unless explicitly stated herein.

[0024] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0025] As used herein, the expression "coupling" of two or more parts or components shall mean that as long as the connection occurs, the parts are directly or indirectly combined or operated together, i.e., through one or more intermediate parts or components. As used herein, "direct coupling" refers to two elements directly contacting each other. As used herein, "fixed coupling" or "fixed" refers to two components being coupled to move as a whole while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. Accordingly, when two elements are coupled, all parts of those elements are coupled. However, the description of a specific part of a first element coupled to a second element, such as a first axle end coupled to a first wheel, refers to a specific part of the first element being placed closer to the second element than the rest of it. Further, an object resting on another object held in place only by gravity is not "coupled" to a lower object unless the upper object is otherwise substantially maintained in place. That is, for example, a book on a table is not coupled to it, but a book glued to the table is coupled to it.

[0026] As used herein, the phrase "removably coupled" means that one component is coupled to another component in a substantially temporary manner. That is, the two components are coupled in such a manner that joining or separation of the components is easy and will not damage the components. For example, two components that are secured to one another with a fixed number of fasteners that are easily accessible, i.e., fasteners that are not difficult to reach, are "removably coupled," whereas two components that are welded together or joined by hard-to-reach fasteners are not "removably coupled." A "hard-to-reach fastener" is a fastener that requires removal of one or more other components before accessing the fastener, where the "other components" are not entry devices, such as, but not limited to, a door.

[0027] As used herein, "operably coupled" refers to a number of elements or assemblies that are coupled such that as a first element moves from one position / configuration to another, a second element also moves between positions / configurations, each of the elements or assemblies being movable between a first position and a second position or a first configuration and a second configuration. It should be noted that a first element can be "operably coupled" to another element, but not vice versa.

[0028] As used herein, a "coupling assembly" includes two or more couplers or coupling components. A coupler or component of a coupling assembly is generally not part of the same element or other component. Thus, the components of a "coupling assembly" may not be described simultaneously in the following description.

[0029] As used herein, a "coupler" or "coupling component(s)" is one or more components of a coupling assembly. That is, a coupling assembly includes at least two components that are configured to couple to each other. It is understood that the components of a coupling assembly are compatible with each other. For example, in a coupling assembly, if one coupling component is a snap-on plug, the other coupling component is a snap-on plug, or if one coupling component is a bolt, the other coupling component is a nut.

[0030] As used herein, "corresponding" indicates that the size of two structural components is set and shaped to be similar to each other and can be coupled with the minimum amount of friction. Therefore, the size of the opening "corresponding" to the member is set to be slightly larger than the member so that the member can pass through the opening with the minimum amount of friction. If two components are "tightly" fitted together, this definition is modified. In this case, the difference between the sizes of the components is even smaller, thereby increasing the amount of friction. If the elements defining the opening and / or the components inserted in the opening are made of deformable or compressible materials, the opening may even be slightly smaller than the components inserted in the opening. With regard to surfaces, shapes and lines, two or more "corresponding" surfaces, shapes or lines have the same size, shape and profile in general.

[0031] As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components "engage" one another shall mean that the elements apply a force or are biased against one another directly or through one or more intermediate elements or components. Further, as used herein, with respect to a moving part, the moving part may "engage" another element during movement from one position to another and / or may "engage" another element once in the described position. Therefore, it should be understood that the statements "when element A moves to element A first position, element A engages element B" and "when element A is in element A first position, element A engages element B" are equivalent statements and mean that element A engages element B when moving to element A first position and / or element A engages element B when being in element A first position.

[0032] As used herein, "operably engaged" means "engage and move." That is, when used relative to a second component that is configured to move, movable or rotatable, "operably engaged" means that the first component applies a force sufficient to move the second component. For example, a screwdriver can be placed in contact with a screw. When no force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver is only "coupled" to the screw. If an axial force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver presses against the screw and "engages" the screw. However, when a rotational force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver "operably engages" the screw and causes the screw to rotate. Further, in the case of electronic components, "operably engaged" means that one component controls another component through a control signal or current.

[0033] As used herein, the term "integral" refers to a component that is created as a single piece or unit. That is, a component that includes pieces that are created separately and then coupled together as a unit is not an "integral" component or entity.

[0034] As used herein, the term "number" shall mean one or an integer greater than one (ie, a plurality).

[0035] As used herein, "around" in phrases such as "disposed around [element, point, or axis]" or "extending around [element, point, or axis]" or "around [element, point, or axis] [x] degrees" means surrounding, extending around, or measuring around. "About" when used with reference to a measurement or in a similar manner means "approximately."

[0036] As used herein, "associated" means that elements are part of the same assembly and / or operate together or interact / function in some way with each other. For example, a car has four tires and four hubcaps. Although all elements are coupled as part of the car, it should be understood that each hubcap is "associated" with a specific tire.

[0037] As used herein, in the phrase “[x] moves between its first position and its second position” or “[y] is configured to move [x] between its first position and its second position”, “[x]” is the name of an element or assembly. Further, when [x] is an element or assembly that moves between a plurality of positions, the pronoun “its” refers to “[x]”, i.e., the named element or assembly preceding the pronoun “its”.

[0038] As used herein, "being configured to [verb]" means that the element or assembly identified has a structure that is shaped, sized, placed, coupled and / or configured to perform the identified verb. For example, the member "being configured to move" is movably coupled to another element and comprises an element or member that makes the member move and is otherwise configured to move in response to other elements or assembly. Thus, as used herein, "being configured to [verb]" describes a structure rather than a function. Further, as used herein, "being configured to [verb]" means that the element or assembly identified is intended to and is designed to perform the identified verb. Therefore, the element that can only perform the identified verb but is not intended to and is not designed to perform the identified verb is not "being configured to [verb]".

[0039] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2, showing a vacuum circuit breaker 10 incorporating a vacuum interrupter assembly 30. As is known, the vacuum circuit breaker 10 can be a single-pole or multi-pole vacuum circuit breaker 10. In the following, and as an exemplary embodiment, only a single pole will be discussed. However, it should be understood that the claims are not limited to embodiments having only a single pole. Generally, in an exemplary embodiment, the vacuum circuit breaker 10 includes a low voltage portion 12 and a high voltage portion 14. The low voltage portion 12 includes a housing 16, which is configured to include a control device (not shown), such as but not limited to a circuit breaker assembly and / or a control panel for manually operating the vacuum circuit breaker 10 and changing the state of the contact assembly 150, 160 (discussed below) to an open or closed state. The low voltage portion 12 is operably coupled to the high voltage portion 14 via a support support 18. The high voltage portion 14 includes a line terminal 20, a load terminal 22 and a vacuum interrupter assembly 30. The line terminal 20 is configured to couple to and be coupled to a line (not shown) and includes a fixed coupler 21. The load terminal 22 is configured to couple to and be coupled to a load (not shown) and includes a fixed coupler 23. Either or both of the line terminal 20 and / or the load terminal 22 include a heat sink 26, which is schematically shown. In an exemplary embodiment, the line terminal coupler 21 and the load terminal coupler 23 are in a "fixed" position. That is, as used herein with reference to the line terminal coupler 21 and the load terminal coupler 23, "fixed" means that during operation of the vacuum circuit breaker 10, the line terminal coupler 21 and the load terminal coupler 23 of the terminals 20, 22 do not move relative to other elements of the vacuum circuit breaker 10. As shown, in an exemplary embodiment, the elements of the high voltage portion 14 are supported by the insulating rod 19.

[0040] like Figure 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the vacuum interrupter assembly 30 includes an operating mechanism 32 (schematically shown, Figure 1 ), vacuum chamber 34 and conductor assembly 36. As discussed below, operating mechanism 32 is configured to and does move a number of movable contact assemblies 150A, 150B between a first position in which each movable contact assembly 150A, 150B is spaced apart from and not in electrical communication with another of contact assemblies 150A, 150B, 160, and a second position in which each movable contact assembly 150A, 150B is coupled to and in electrical communication with another of contact assemblies 150A, 150B, 160.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the operating mechanism 32 includes an actuator link member 38 having a body 39. As used herein, an "actuator link member" is the largest link member of the operating mechanism 32, which imparts motion to the movable contact assembly 150 discussed below. The actuator link member 38 is configured to be operably coupled to and operably coupled to the movable contact assembly 150 or movable contact assemblies 150A, 150B, and is configured to move the movable contact assembly 150 between the first position and the second position described below. In other words, the actuator link member 38 imparts mechanical motion to the movable contact assembly 150. In an exemplary embodiment, the actuator link member 38 is made of a non-conductive material or a combination of conductive and non-conductive materials. The actuator link member 38 has a "reduced mass". As used herein, and with respect to embodiments in which the actuator link member 38 is made of a non-conductive material or a combination of conductive and non-conductive materials, "reduced mass" means that the actuator link member has a mass that is between about 30% and 90% or about 60% less than an actuator link member made of a conductive material and having substantially similar dimensions. In another exemplary embodiment, the actuator link member 38 is made of a conductive material. In embodiments in which the actuator link member 38 is made of a conductive material, the actuator link member 38 may still have a "reduced mass". That is, in embodiments in which the actuator link member 38 is made of a conductive material, "reduced mass" means that the actuator link member has a mass that is between about 30% and 90% or about 60% relative to a prior art actuator link member that is configured to extend between an element of the operating mechanism 32 and the movable contact assembly 150. Mass reduction is achieved by providing an actuator link member 38 having a reduced diameter or length. In embodiments incorporating a “reduced mass” actuator linkage member 38 having a “reduced mass,” the reduction in mass addresses the issues discussed above.

[0042] The vacuum chamber 34 includes a housing assembly 40 that includes a sidewall 42 and a number of seal cups 44, 46. In the exemplary embodiment, the sidewall 42 is a hollow, generally cylindrical body 48. In this configuration, the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall 42 defines a generally enclosed space 50, hereinafter referred to as the "vacuum chamber enclosed space 50". Further, the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall 42 has a first end 52, a middle portion 54, and a second end 56. In this configuration, the housing assembly 40 has a length measured from the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall first end 52 to the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall second end 56.

[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, there is a first seal cup 44 and a second seal cup 46. In an exemplary embodiment, each seal cup 44', 46' associated with the movable contact assembly 150 includes a generally circular flat portion 60, a sidewall 62 extending generally perpendicular to the plane of the associated seal cup flat portion 60, and a flange 64 extending generally parallel to the plane of the associated seal cup flat portion 60. In an exemplary embodiment, the seal cup flat portion 60 includes a central opening 61, which is generally disposed at the center of the generally circular seal cup flat portion 60. In an exemplary embodiment, the seal cup sidewall 62 extends from the periphery of the generally circular seal cup flat portion 60 and is thus generally cylindrical. The seal cup sidewall 62 includes a proximal end 66 coupled to the seal cup flat portion 60 and a distal end 68 opposite to the seal cup sidewall proximal end 66. In an exemplary embodiment, the seal cup flange 64 extends radially outward from the seal cup sidewall distal end 68.

[0044] The second seal cup 46 associated with the stationary contact assembly 160 described below includes a generally flat toroidal body 47 defining a central opening 49. The second seal cup body opening 49 is sized to closely correspond to the cross-sectional area of ​​the stationary second contact assembly lead post body intermediate portion 168.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, each seal cup 44, 46 is integral. Further, in this configuration, each seal cup 44, 46 defines a generally enclosed space 70, 72, respectively. It should be noted that, although the seal cups 44, 46 are similar, the seal cup sidewall 62 of the associated seal cup 46, i.e., the seal cup sidewall of the seal cup disposed adjacent to the fixed contact assembly 160, has a higher height relative to the seal cup flat portion 60 than the seal cup sidewall 62 of the associated seal cup 44, i.e., the seal cup sidewall of the seal cup disposed adjacent to the movable contact assembly 150.

[0046] Each seal cup 44, 46 is sealingly coupled to the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall 42. In an exemplary embodiment, each seal cup 44 associated with the movable contact assembly 150 is disposed in an inverted orientation in the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall 42. That is, as used herein, when used with reference to a cup-shaped seal, "in an inverted orientation" means that the generally enclosed space 70 defined by the seal cup 44 is generally disposed within the vacuum chamber enclosed space 50. Each seal cup flange 64 is sealingly coupled to the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall 42. That is, as shown, the first seal cup 44 is disposed at the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall first end 52, and the second seal cup 46 is disposed at the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall second end 56.

[0047] As discussed below, one embodiment of the vacuum interrupter assembly 30 includes two movable contact assemblies 150A, 150B. However, in the first embodiment, there is a single movable contact assembly 150A. As known, in order to accommodate the movable contact assembly 150A, the vacuum chamber 34 includes an element that allows the movable contact to move. In an exemplary embodiment, the element that allows the movable contact to move is a bellows assembly 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the bellows assembly 100 is a metal welded bellows 102. As known, the bellows for the vacuum chamber 34 includes a generally cylindrical sidewall having an accordion-like shape defining a number of corrugations. As used herein, a "single-slit bellows" includes a sidewall cast or formed with many corrugations, which is then formed into a generally cylindrical shape and the ends are welded together along a single seam. As used herein, a "metal welded bellows" includes a plurality of generally flat toroidal body members and a plurality of toroidal spring members; the spring members generally extend from an outer edge of one body member to an inner edge of an adjacent body member. In this configuration, the spring members and the body member define a plurality of corrugations. The spring members are sealingly coupled, such as but not limited to by welding the spring members to the body member. It should be understood that the spring members and the body member are generally toroidal, and the members may include shapes for enhancing the elasticity of the metal welded bellows. In an exemplary embodiment having a single movable contact assembly 150, the first bellows assembly 100A is associated with the first movable contact assembly 150A.

[0048] Each bellows assembly 100 includes a body 104 having a first end 106, a second end 107, and defines a passage 108. As described above, in an exemplary embodiment, the bellows assembly body 104 is generally cylindrical and includes a plurality of corrugations. Therefore, the bellows assembly body passage 108 alternates between a minimum inner radius and a maximum inner radius.

[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, each bellows assembly 100 includes an anti-torsion sleeve assembly 110. The sleeve assembly 110 includes a collar portion 112 and a sheath portion 114. In an exemplary embodiment, the anti-torsion sleeve assembly collar portion 112 includes a generally flat body 116 that defines a generally circular central opening 118. The sleeve assembly collar portion body central opening 118 generally corresponds to the first contact assembly lead post body first end 157 discussed below. In an exemplary embodiment, the sleeve assembly collar portion body 116 is also generally circular and has a larger radius than the seal cup flat portion central opening 61. Further, in an exemplary embodiment, the sleeve assembly collar portion body 116 includes a first flat surface 120, an opposing second flat surface 122, and a plurality of fluid passages 124 extending therebetween. As shown, and in an exemplary embodiment, the sleeve assembly collar portion body fluid passages 124 are arranged in a generally symmetrical pattern about the center of the sleeve assembly collar portion body central opening 118. It should be understood that the term "symmetric about a center" relates to rotational symmetry.

[0050] The sleeve assembly sheath portion 114 includes a hollow, generally cylindrical body 130. The sleeve assembly sheath portion body 130 defines a passage 132 that is sized to correspond generally to the first contact assembly lead post body first end 157 and the first contact assembly lead post body middle portion 158 discussed below. The sleeve assembly sheath portion body 130 is disposed around, i.e., generally surrounds, the sleeve assembly collar portion body central opening 118 and is adjacent thereto. In an exemplary embodiment, the sleeve assembly 110 is unitary. That is, the sleeve assembly collar portion 112 and the sleeve assembly sheath portion 114 are unitary.

[0051] The sleeve assembly 110 further includes an anti-rotation assembly 134. The anti-rotation assembly 134 includes components on the first contact assembly lead post body first end 157 and / or the first contact assembly lead post body middle portion 158, which for discussion purposes are identified as part of the anti-rotation assembly 134. The anti-rotation assembly 134 is configured to resist and, in an exemplary embodiment, prevent the sleeve assembly 110 from rotating relative to the first contact assembly lead post 152. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4DAs shown in , the anti-rotation assembly 134 includes a non-circular element 136, which is coupled to or formed as a part of the first end 157 of the first contact assembly lead post body and / or the first contact assembly lead post body middle portion 158. Further, the sleeve assembly collar portion 112 and / or the sheath portion 114 define a cavity 138 corresponding to the anti-rotation assembly non-circular element 136. For example, the anti-rotation assembly non-circular element 136 can be a nut 136' ( 136') coupled to the first contact assembly lead post 152. Figure 4A ), the non-circular portion 136" ( Figure 4B ), or coupled to or incorporated into the first contact assembly lead post 152 of the lug 136 "' ( Figure 4C ). Alternatively, Figure 4D , the first contact assembly lead post 152 and the anti-torsion sleeve assembly collar portion body opening 118 and / or the sleeve assembly jacket portion body passage 132 each define a friction surface 139. It should be understood that when the sleeve assembly 110 is placed on the first contact assembly lead post 152, the components of the anti-rotation assembly 134 are coupled, directly coupled or fixed to each other and resist or prevent the sleeve assembly 110 from rotating relative to the first contact assembly lead post 152.

[0052] It should be understood that in the embodiment having two movable contact assemblies 150A, 150B, there are two bellows assemblies, namely, the first bellows assembly 100A and the second bellows assembly 100B as described above ( Figure 8 That is, in the case of two movable contact assemblies 150A and 150B ( Figure 8 ), there is a second bellows assembly 100B. The second bellows assembly 100B will not be described in detail herein, but it should be understood that the second bellows assembly 100B' is substantially similar to the first bellows assembly 100A.

[0053] The conductor assembly 36 includes the conductive elements of the vacuum interrupter assembly 30. In an exemplary embodiment, the conductor assembly 36 includes a first contact assembly 150A, a second contact assembly 150B ( Figure 8 ) or the second contact assembly 160 ( Figure 3) and a plurality of flexible connection assemblies 200. In an exemplary embodiment, the first contact assembly 150A is movable relative to the vacuum chamber 34, while the second contact assembly 160 is stationary relative to the vacuum chamber 34. In another embodiment discussed below, both the first contact assembly 150A and the second contact assembly 150B are movable relative to the vacuum chamber 34. Therefore, for the embodiments to be discussed below, as used herein, the first contact assembly 150A is a "movable first contact assembly 150A" or alternatively a "movable contact assembly 150". Conversely, for the embodiments to be discussed below, as used herein, the second contact assembly 160 is a "fixed second contact assembly 160" or alternatively a "fixed contact assembly 160". In another embodiment including two movable contact assemblies discussed further below, as used herein, the first contact assembly 150 is a "movable first contact assembly 150A". Further, in embodiments including two movable contact assemblies, the second contact assembly 160 is alternately identified by reference numeral 150B and is the "movable second contact assembly 150B" as used herein.

[0054] Each contact assembly 150, 160 includes a lead post 152, 162 and a contact member 154, 164. Each contact assembly lead post 152, 162 includes an elongated body 156, 166. Each contact assembly lead post body 156, 166 includes a proximal first end 157, 167, a middle portion 158, 168 and a distal second end 159, 169. In an exemplary embodiment, each contact assembly lead post body 156, 166 has a generally circular cross-section. In an exemplary embodiment, each contact assembly contact member 154, 164 includes a generally circular disc-shaped body 155, 165. Each contact assembly lead post 152, 162 and contact assembly contact member 154, 164 are made of a conductive material, such as but not limited to copper. The first contact assembly contact member 154 is coupled to the first contact assembly lead post second end 159 and is electrically connected thereto. The second contact assembly contact member 164 is coupled to and in electrical communication with the second contact assembly lead post second end 169 .

[0055] Further, in an exemplary embodiment, each contact assembly lead post body 156, 166 includes a number of "flanges" 151, 161. As used herein, the radius of the "flanges" on the contact assembly lead post body 156, 166 varies, thereby forming a generally radially extending surface on the contact assembly lead post body 156, 166. The radius variation can be a radius increase or a radius decrease. The contact assembly lead post body flanges 151, 161 serve as mounting surfaces and / or coupling surfaces.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, by utilizing the metal welded bellows 102 and the first flexible connection assembly 200A as described below, the movable first contact assembly lead post 152 has a "reduced length". As used herein, "reduced length" with respect to the contact assembly lead post means that the length of the lead post is between 0% and less than 50% of the length of the housing assembly 40. The reduced length and associated mass reduction of the first contact assembly lead post 152 solves one or more of the above-mentioned problems.

[0057] like Figure 5 As shown in , the flexible connection assembly 200 is associated with each movable contact assembly 150A, 150B. Therefore, in an embodiment with a single first movable contact assembly 150A, there is a single first flexible connection assembly 200A. In an exemplary embodiment, the first flexible connection assembly 200A includes a fixed coupler 202A and a movable coupler 204A. In an exemplary embodiment, the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler 202A is an electrical conductor 206A having a first radius, diameter or width. In one embodiment, the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler body 206A is generally annular ( FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B ). In another embodiment, the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler body 206A is generally star-shaped, but defines a central opening (not shown). That is, the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler body 206A defines a central opening in both embodiments. The first flexible connection assembly movable coupler 204A is an electrical conductor 208A having a second radius, diameter, or width. In an exemplary embodiment, the second radius, diameter, or width is less than the first radius, diameter, or width. Figure 5 and Figure 6C In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the first flexible connection assembly movable coupler conductor 208A is an integral layered annular structure having a lower annular surface 207A and an upper annular surface 209A. In other embodiments, such as Fig.6D As shown in FIG. 1 , the first flexible connection assembly movable coupling conductor 208A includes a hexagonal portion 205A and an upper annular surface 209A.

[0058] The first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler 202A and the first flexible connection assembly movable coupler 204A are coupled to each other and electrically connected. That is, in an exemplary embodiment, the first flexible connection assembly 200A further includes many flexible conductors 210A. In another embodiment, the first flexible connection assembly 200A further includes multiple flexible conductors 210A. Each first flexible connection assembly flexible conductor 210A includes a first end 212A and a second end 214A. Each first flexible connection assembly flexible conductor first end 212A is coupled to the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler 202A and electrically connected thereto. Each first flexible connection assembly flexible conductor second end 214A is coupled to the first flexible connection assembly movable coupler 204A and electrically connected thereto. In an exemplary embodiment, the first flexible connection assembly flexible conductor 210A surrounds, i.e., surrounds in general, a selected point arrangement. In an exemplary embodiment, the first end of the first contact assembly lead post body includes a center "C", and a plurality of first flexible connection assembly flexible conductors 210A are arranged around the center "C" of the first end of the first contact assembly lead post body. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6D As shown in FIG. 1 , many first flexible connection assembly flexible conductors 210A may have several configurations, such as but not limited to a spiral member 220A ( Fig. 6A )、conical member 222A( Figure 6B ), (cross section) cylindrical curved member 224A ( Figure 6C ) or (cross-section) rectangular curved member 226A ( Fig.6D ).

[0059] It should be further noted that the configuration of the flexible connection assembly 200, such as but not limited to the size of the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler body 206A, the size of the first flexible connection assembly movable coupler conductor 208A, the number of flexible conductors 210A, the size and / or shape of the flexible conductors 210A, affects the characteristics of the flexible connection assembly 200, which in turn affects the characteristics of the vacuum chamber 34. The characteristics of the vacuum chamber 34 with the flexible connection assembly 200 include: a carrying current of up to about 10,000A as a continuous rated current; a peak withstand current of up to about 100 Ka for 3s, and a peak make-up current of up to about 274 Ka. These characteristics further occur without any desoldering or deformation of any element of the conductor assembly 36.

[0060] In this configuration, the flexible connection assembly 200 is configured to move between two configurations (a first configuration and a second configuration), in which the first flexible connection assembly movable coupler conductor 208A is positioned closer to the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler body 206A, and in which the first flexible connection assembly movable coupler conductor 208A is spaced apart from the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler body 206A. It should be understood that "closer" and "spaced apart" are relative terms, which means that when the flexible connection assembly 200 is in the first configuration, the first flexible connection assembly movable coupler conductor 208A is positioned closer to the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler body 206A than when the flexible connection assembly 200 is in the second configuration. Conversely, when the flexible connection assembly 200 is in the second configuration, the first flexible connection assembly movable coupler conductor 208A is positioned farther from the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler body 206A, i.e., spaced apart from the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler body, compared to the flexible connection assembly 200 in the first configuration.

[0061] In one exemplary embodiment, the flexible connection assembly 200 is configured to be fixed to and fixed to the associated contact assembly 150, 160, and more specifically to the associated lead post 152, 162. The flexible connection assembly 200 can be, for example, soldered or welded to the associated lead post 152, 162. In another exemplary embodiment, the flexible connection assembly 200 is configured to be removably coupled to and removably coupled to the associated contact assembly 150, 160, and more specifically to the associated lead post 152, 162. In this embodiment, the flexible connection assembly 200 can be coupled to the associated lead post 152, 162, for example, by a removable coupler, such as but not limited to a threaded coupling member (not shown). Such a threaded coupling member is positioned in an easily accessible location. For example, a removable coupler (not shown) configured to couple the movable coupler 204A and the first contact assembly lead post 152 is positioned substantially at the center of the underside of the movable coupler 204A. Figure 5 ) to easily access such a removable coupler. Further, in an exemplary embodiment, the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler body 206A includes a threaded passage or hole 218A. In this exemplary embodiment, the load terminal 22 includes a fastener access passage 28 ( Figure 2 ). It should be understood that the threaded coupling member (not shown) passes through the load terminal access passage 28 and into the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler body bore 218A.

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment, a vacuum interrupter assembly 30 having one movable contact assembly 150 is assembled as follows. A first bellows assembly 100A is sealingly coupled to a first seal cup 44. In an exemplary embodiment, a first bellows assembly body first end 106 is welded to the first seal cup 44 at the seal cup flat portion 60, and a bellows assembly body passage 108 is disposed around the seal cup central opening 61. The first bellows assembly 100A is not within the seal cup enclosed space 70. That is, the first bellows assembly 100A is sealingly coupled to the seal cup flat portion 60 on the side opposite to the seal cup enclosed space 70.

[0063] The first contact assembly lead post 152 and the first contact assembly lead post body first end 157 and middle portion 158 in the exemplary embodiment pass through the bellows assembly body passage 108 and the seal cup central opening 61. The first contact assembly contact member 154 is not within the seal cup enclosed space 70. The first contact assembly lead post body middle portion 158 or second end 159 includes a flange 151. The bellows assembly body second end 107 is sealingly coupled to the first contact assembly lead post body middle portion 158 or second end 159 at the flange 151.

[0064] The sleeve assembly 110 is disposed on the first contact assembly lead post 152. That is, the first contact assembly lead post 152 extends through the sleeve assembly collar portion body central opening 118 and the sleeve assembly sheath portion body passage 132. As described above, the components of the anti-rotation assembly 134 are coupled, directly coupled or fixed to each other and resist or prevent the sleeve assembly 110 from rotating relative to the first contact assembly lead post 152. The sleeve assembly 110 is disposed at the first contact assembly lead post body intermediate portion 158 and extends through the first seal cup flat portion 60. That is, the sleeve assembly collar portion body 116 is disposed in the vacuum chamber enclosure 50, and the sleeve assembly sheath portion body 130 extends through the sleeve assembly collar portion body central opening 118. Further, in the exemplary embodiment, the sleeve assembly collar portion body 116 is coupled, directly coupled, or secured to the seal cup flat portion 60 within the seal cup enclosed space 70 .

[0065] The first seal cup flange 64 and the outer periphery of the first cup seal cup flange 64 in the exemplary embodiment are sealingly coupled to the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall first end 52. In the exemplary embodiment, the first seal cup flange 64 is welded to the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall first end 52. Further, as described above, the first seal cup 44 is disposed in the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall 42 in an inverted orientation.

[0066] The fixed contact assembly 160 is coupled to the second seal cup 46 as follows. The second contact assembly lead post body 166 passes through the second seal cup body opening 49. The second contact assembly lead post body 166 is sealingly coupled to the second seal cup body 47. In an exemplary embodiment, the second contact assembly lead post body 166 is welded to the second seal cup body 47. The second seal cup 46 is sealingly coupled to the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall second end 56. In an exemplary embodiment, the second seal cup body 47 is welded to the vacuum chamber housing assembly sidewall second end 56.

[0067] In this configuration, the vacuum chamber enclosed space 50 is sealed and a vacuum can be created therein. That is, the second end 56 of the vacuum chamber housing assembly side wall is sealingly coupled to the second seal cup 46, which in turn is sealingly coupled to the second contact assembly lead post body 166. This configuration seals the second end 56 of the vacuum chamber housing assembly side wall. The first seal cup 44 is sealingly coupled to the first end 52 of the vacuum chamber housing assembly side wall. The bellows assembly 100 is sealingly coupled to the first seal cup 44 and the first contact assembly lead post body middle portion 158 or second end 159. This configuration seals the first end 52 of the vacuum chamber housing assembly side wall. Therefore, the vacuum chamber enclosed space 50 is sealed. It should be understood that the vacuum assembly (not shown) allows a vacuum or near-vacuum condition to be created in the vacuum chamber enclosed space 50.

[0068] Further, in this configuration, the first bellows assembly 100A is configured as a "pressurized bellows". That is, when the movable contact assembly lead post 152 passes through the bellows assembly 100, there is a defined space between the movable contact assembly lead post 152 and the bellows assembly body 104; this defined space is also the bellows assembly body passage 108. Depending on the position where the bellows assembly 100 is sealingly coupled to the movable contact assembly lead post 152, the bellows assembly body passage 108 is in fluid communication with the vacuum chamber enclosure 50 or the atmosphere. That is, if the bellows assembly 100 is sealingly coupled to the movable contact assembly lead post 152 adjacent to the first contact assembly lead post second end 159, the bellows assembly body passage 108 is generally in fluid communication with the atmosphere. As used herein, the bellows assembly body passage 108 that is generally in fluid communication with the atmosphere is a "pressurized bellows" because the atmosphere pressurizes the bellows. Conversely, if the bellows assembly 100 is sealingly coupled to the movable contact assembly lead post 152 adjacent to the first contact assembly lead post first end 157, the bellows assembly body passage 108 is generally in fluid communication with the vacuum chamber enclosure 50. As used herein, the bellows assembly body passage 108 that is generally in fluid communication with the vacuum chamber enclosure 50 is a "vacuum bellows" because the bellows assembly body passage 108 is also subjected to vacuum. It should be noted that the pressurized bellows disclosed herein allows the bellows assembly body passage 108 to be in fluid communication with the sleeve assembly collar portion body fluid passage 124.

[0069] The vacuum chamber 34 is coupled, directly coupled or fixed to the low voltage part housing 16. As shown, in the exemplary embodiment, the vacuum chamber 34 is spaced apart from the low voltage part housing 16 via the support 18. The line terminal 20 and the load terminal 22 are also coupled, directly coupled or fixed to the low voltage part housing 16 at the support 18. The line terminal 20 is coupled to the fixed contact assembly 160 via the fixed coupler 21 and is in electrical communication with it. That is, the line terminal 20 is coupled to the fixed second contact assembly proximal first end 167 via the fixed coupler 23 and the flexible connection assembly 200 and is in electrical communication with it.

[0070] The movable first contact assembly 150A is coupled to the load terminal 22 and the operating mechanism 32 via the flexible connection assembly 200. That is, in an exemplary embodiment, the first flexible connection assembly 200A is temporarily coupled to each of the first contact assembly 150A, the load terminal 22, and the operating mechanism 32. In another embodiment, the first flexible connection assembly 200A is coupled, directly coupled, or fixed to each of the first contact assembly 150A, the load terminal 22, and the operating mechanism 32. In an exemplary embodiment, when installed, the first flexible connection assembly 200A is placed in the first seal cup enclosed space 70. It should be noted that this configuration helps solve the problem of too long mobile contact assembly contact lead posts.

[0071] That is, in the exemplary embodiment, the first flexible connection assembly 200A is placed in the first seal cup closed space 70, and the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler 202A is temporarily coupled to the load terminal 22 and electrically connected thereto. The first flexible connection assembly movable coupler 204A is temporarily coupled to the first contact assembly lead column body proximal first end 157 and electrically connected thereto. Further, the actuator link member 38 extends through the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler conductor 206A and is operably coupled to the first flexible connection assembly movable coupler 204A. The actuator link member 38 is further operably coupled to the operating mechanism 32.

[0072] In this configuration, the vacuum circuit breaker 10 operates as follows. For this example, it is assumed that the movable first contact assembly 150A is in the second position, in which the first contact assembly 150A is directly coupled to and electrically communicates with the fixed second contact assembly 160. That is, within the vacuum chamber 34, the first contact assembly contact member 154 and the second contact assembly contact member 164 are directly coupled.

[0073] When receiving a signal from the control device, the operating mechanism 32 moves the movable first contact assembly 150A to a first position, in which the first contact assembly 150A is directly coupled to the fixed second contact assembly 160 and is electrically connected thereto. During this operation, the flexible connection assembly 200 moves from the second configuration to the first configuration, in which the first flexible connection assembly movable coupler conductor 208A is spaced apart from the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler body 206A, in which the first flexible connection assembly movable coupler body 208A is positioned closer to the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler body 206A. During the closing operation, the movement of the elements discussed above is reversed. That is, the elements move from their first position / configuration to their second position / configuration.

[0074] Furthermore, the first flexible connection assembly 200A can be replaced with another first flexible connection assembly 200A, thereby changing the operating characteristics of the vacuum chamber 34. Figure 7 As shown, a method of utilizing the vacuum circuit interrupter 10 as described above includes providing 1000 an "installed first flexible connection assembly 200A'". As used herein, the "installed first flexible connection assembly 200A'" refers to the first flexible connection assembly 200A that is currently installed and coupled to the vacuum circuit interrupter 10 as described above. The installed first flexible connection assembly 200A' has a first set of characteristics. Further, the installed first flexible connection assembly includes a fixed coupler and a movable coupler, wherein the installed first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler and the installed first flexible connection assembly movable coupler are coupled and electrically connected to each other, and the installed first flexible connection assembly 200A is disposed in a first sealing cup cavity, wherein the installed first flexible connection assembly movable coupler is temporarily coupled to the first contact assembly lead post body first end 157 and electrically connected thereto. The method further includes removing 1002 the installed first flexible connection assembly 200A', providing 1004 a "replacement first flexible connection assembly 200A'". As used herein, the "replacement first flexible connection assembly 200A" is a first flexible connection assembly 200 that replaces the installed first flexible connection assembly 200A'. The replacement first flexible connection assembly 200A" has a second set of characteristics. The replacement first flexible connection assembly 200A" includes a fixed coupler and a movable coupler, wherein the fixed coupler of the replacement first flexible connection assembly and the movable coupler of the replacement first flexible connection assembly are coupled and electrically connected to each other.

[0075] The method further includes positioning 1006 the replacement first flexible connection assembly 200A" in the first seal cup cavity and temporarily coupling 1008 the replacement first flexible connection assembly 200A" to the vacuum circuit interrupter. In this configuration, the replacement first flexible connection assembly 200A" is electrically connected to the first end 167 of the first contact assembly lead post body.

[0076] Further, temporarily coupling 1008 the replacement first flexible connection assembly to the vacuum circuit interrupter 10 includes temporarily coupling 1010 the replacement first flexible connection assembly movable coupler to the first end 167 of the first contact assembly lead post body, and temporarily coupling 1012 the replacement first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler to one of the line terminal 20 or the load terminal 22.

[0077] As mentioned above and as Figure 8As shown in , the vacuum interrupter assembly 30 may also include two movable contact assemblies 150A, 150B. In this configuration, the second contact assembly 150B is coupled to the second seal cup 46 through the second bellows assembly 100B. Further, in this embodiment, the second seal cup 46 is configured in a manner similar to the first seal cup 44, i.e., using the side wall 62 and the flange 64. Further, in this embodiment, the second flexible connection assembly 200B is disposed in the second seal cup 46 and is coupled to both the line terminal 20 and the second contact assembly 150B and is electrically connected thereto. The specific details of the second contact assembly 150B will not be discussed in detail, but it should be noted that the second contact assembly 150B and associated elements, such as but not limited to the second seal cup 46 and the second flexible connection assembly 200B, are substantially similar to the first movable contact assembly 150A discussed above. Further, in the drawings, elements of the second contact assembly 150B share similar reference numerals but are identified by the letter "B".

[0078] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and substitutions may be made to those details in accordance with the overall teachings of the present disclosure. Therefore, the specific arrangements disclosed are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the present invention, which will be given the full scope of the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A vacuum interrupter assembly, comprising: Operating mechanism; a vacuum chamber comprising a plurality of bellows assemblies; a conductor assembly comprising a first contact assembly and a second contact assembly; The first contact assembly includes a lead post and a contact member; The first contact assembly lead post comprises an elongated body having a proximal first end, a middle portion, and a distal second end; The first contact assembly contact member is coupled to and in electrical communication with the second end of the first contact assembly lead post body; The first contact assembly contact member is disposed in the vacuum chamber; The second contact assembly comprises a lead post and a contact member; The second contact assembly lead post comprises an elongated body having a proximal first end, a middle portion, and a distal second end; The second contact assembly contact member is coupled to and in electrical communication with the second end of the second contact assembly lead post body; The second contact assembly contact member is disposed in the vacuum chamber; The operating mechanism is operably coupled to the first end of the first contact assembly lead post body, wherein the first contact assembly contact member is configured to move between a first position and a second position, wherein the first contact assembly contact member is not directly coupled to the second contact assembly contact member, and wherein the first contact assembly contact member is coupled to and in electrical communication with the second contact assembly contact member; wherein the first contact assembly lead post body has a reduced length; and A first flexible connection assembly is associated with the conductor assembly and is located between the first contact assembly and an associated terminal.

2. The vacuum interrupter assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of bellows assemblies includes a first bellows assembly; and The first bellows assembly is a metal welded bellows. 3 . The vacuum interrupter assembly of claim 2 , wherein the first bellows assembly is configured as a pressurized bellows.

4. The vacuum interrupter assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The plurality of bellows assemblies include an anti-torsion sleeve assembly; The sleeve assembly comprises a collar portion and a sheath portion; The sleeve assembly collar portion includes a generally planar body defining a central opening, the sleeve assembly collar portion body central opening generally corresponding to the first contact assembly lead post body first end; and The sleeve assembly sheath portion includes a generally cylindrical body defining a central passage, the sleeve assembly sheath portion body central passage generally corresponding to the first contact assembly lead post body first end and the first contact assembly lead post body middle portion.

5. The vacuum interrupter assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The first contact assembly lead post body generally extends through the first bellows assembly defining an internal bellows space; The sleeve assembly collar portion body includes a first planar surface and an opposing second planar surface; The sleeve assembly collar portion body includes a plurality of fluid passages extending from the sleeve assembly collar portion body first planar surface to the sleeve assembly collar portion body second planar surface; and The sleeve assembly collar portion body fluid passageway is in fluid communication with the internal bellows space.

6. The vacuum interrupter assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The first flexible connection assembly is temporarily coupled to and in electrical communication with the first end of the first contact assembly lead post body.

7. The vacuum interrupter assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The first flexible connection assembly includes a fixed coupler and a movable coupler, wherein the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler and the first flexible connection assembly movable coupler are coupled and electrically connected to each other; The first flexible connection assembly includes a plurality of flexible conductors; and The plurality of first flexible connection assembly flexible conductors are centrally disposed around the first end of the first contact assembly lead post body.

8. The vacuum interrupter assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The operating mechanism includes an elongated actuator linkage member; The actuator linkage member includes a body; and Wherein the actuator link member body has a reduced mass.

9. The vacuum interrupter assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The conductor assembly includes a second flexible connection assembly, and The second flexible connection assembly is temporarily coupled to the first end of the lead column body of the second contact assembly and is in electrical communication therewith.

10. A vacuum circuit interrupter comprising: Low pressure section and high pressure section; The low pressure section is operably coupled to the high pressure section; The high voltage section includes a line terminal, a load terminal and a vacuum interrupter assembly; The load terminal includes a fixed coupler; The line terminal includes a fixed coupler; The vacuum interrupter assembly comprises an operating mechanism, a vacuum chamber and a conductor assembly; The vacuum chamber includes a plurality of bellows assemblies; The conductor assembly includes a first contact assembly and a second contact assembly; The first contact assembly includes a lead post and a contact member; The first contact assembly lead post comprises an elongated body having a proximal first end, a middle portion, and a distal second end; The first contact assembly contact member is coupled to and in electrical communication with the second end of the first contact assembly lead post body; The first contact assembly contact member is disposed in the vacuum chamber; The second contact assembly comprises a lead post and a contact member; The second contact assembly lead post comprises an elongated body having a proximal first end, a middle portion, and a distal second end; The second contact assembly contact member is coupled to and in electrical communication with the second end of the second contact assembly lead post body; The second contact assembly contact member is disposed in the vacuum chamber; The first contact assembly lead post first end is coupled to and electrically communicates with one of the load terminal fixed coupler or the line terminal fixed coupler; The second contact assembly lead post first end is coupled to and in electrical communication with the other of the load terminal fixed coupler or the line terminal fixed coupler; The operating mechanism is operably coupled to the first end of the first contact assembly lead post body, wherein the first contact assembly contact member is configured to move between a first position and a second position, wherein the first contact assembly contact member is not directly coupled to the second contact assembly contact member, and wherein the first contact assembly contact member is coupled to and in electrical communication with the second contact assembly contact member; wherein the first contact assembly lead post body has a reduced length; and A first flexible connection assembly is associated with the conductor assembly and is located between the first contact assembly and an associated terminal.

11. The vacuum circuit interrupter according to claim 10, wherein: The plurality of bellows assemblies includes a first bellows assembly; and The first bellows assembly is a metal welded bellows.

12. The vacuum circuit interrupter of claim 11, wherein the first bellows assembly is configured as a pressurized bellows.

13. The vacuum circuit interrupter of claim 12, wherein: The plurality of bellows assemblies include an anti-torsion sleeve assembly; The sleeve assembly comprises a collar portion and a sheath portion; The sleeve assembly collar portion includes a generally planar body defining a central opening, the sleeve assembly collar portion body central opening generally corresponding to the first contact assembly lead post body first end; and The sleeve assembly sheath portion includes a generally cylindrical body defining a central passage, the sleeve assembly sheath portion body central passage generally corresponding to the first contact assembly lead post body first end and the first contact assembly lead post body middle portion.

14. The vacuum circuit interrupter of claim 13, wherein: The first contact assembly lead post body generally extends through the first bellows assembly defining an internal bellows space; The sleeve assembly collar portion body includes a first planar surface and an opposing second planar surface; The sleeve assembly collar portion body includes a plurality of fluid passages extending from the sleeve assembly collar portion body first planar surface to the sleeve assembly collar portion body second planar surface; and The sleeve assembly collar portion body fluid passageway is in fluid communication with the internal bellows space.

15. The vacuum circuit interrupter of claim 10, wherein the first flexible connection assembly is temporarily coupled to and in electrical communication with the first contact assembly lead post body first end.

16. The vacuum circuit interrupter of claim 15, wherein: The first flexible connection assembly includes a fixed coupler and a movable coupler, wherein the first flexible connection assembly fixed coupler and the first flexible connection assembly movable coupler are coupled and electrically connected to each other; The first flexible connection assembly includes a plurality of flexible conductors; and The plurality of first flexible connection assembly flexible conductors are centrally disposed around the first end of the first contact assembly lead post body.

17. The vacuum circuit interrupter of claim 10, wherein: The operating mechanism includes an actuator linkage member; The actuator linkage member includes a body; and Wherein the actuator link member body has a reduced mass.

18. The vacuum circuit interrupter of claim 17, wherein: The conductor assembly includes a second flexible connection assembly, and The second flexible connection assembly is temporarily coupled to the first end of the lead column body of the second contact assembly and is in electrical communication therewith.

19. A method of utilizing a vacuum circuit interrupter, the vacuum circuit interrupter comprising a low voltage portion and a high voltage portion; the low voltage portion being operably coupled to the high voltage portion, the high voltage portion comprising a line terminal, a load terminal, and a vacuum interrupter assembly, the load terminal comprising a fixed coupler, the line terminal comprising a fixed coupler, the vacuum interrupter assembly comprising an operating mechanism, a vacuum chamber, and a conductor assembly, the vacuum chamber comprising a plurality of bellows assemblies, the conductor assembly comprising a first contact assembly and a second contact assembly, the first contact The assembly includes a lead post and a contact member, the first contact assembly lead post includes an elongated body, the elongated body has a proximal first end, a middle portion and a distal second end, the first contact assembly contact member is coupled to the first contact assembly lead post body second end and is electrically connected thereto, the first contact assembly contact member is disposed in the vacuum chamber, the second contact assembly includes a lead post and a contact member, the second contact assembly lead post includes an elongated body, the elongated body has a proximal first end, a middle portion and a distal second end, the The second contact assembly contact member is coupled to and electrically communicates with the second end of the second contact assembly lead post body, the second contact assembly contact member is disposed in the vacuum chamber, the first end of the first contact assembly lead post is coupled to and electrically communicates with one of the load terminal fixed coupler or the line terminal fixed coupler, the second contact assembly lead post first end is coupled to and electrically communicates with the other of the load terminal fixed coupler or the line terminal fixed coupler, the operating mechanism is operably coupled to the first end of the first contact assembly lead post body, wherein the first contact assembly contact member is configured to move between a first position and a second position, in the first position, the first contact assembly contact member is not directly coupled to the second contact assembly contact member, in the second position, the first contact assembly contact member is coupled to and electrically communicates with the second contact assembly contact member, the vacuum chamber includes a first sealing cup, the first sealing cup is disposed in an inverted orientation and defines a cavity in the vacuum chamber, the method comprising: providing a mounted first flexible connection assembly having a first set of characteristics, wherein a movable coupler of the mounted first flexible connection assembly is temporarily coupled to and in electrical communication with a first end of a lead post body of the first contact assembly; removing the installed first flexible connection assembly; providing a replacement first flexible connection assembly having a second set of characteristics; temporarily coupling the replacement first flexible connection assembly to the vacuum circuit interrupter; and The replacement first flexible connection assembly is electrically connected to the first end of the lead column body of the first contact assembly.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein temporarily coupling the replacement first flexible connection assembly to the vacuum circuit interrupter comprises: temporarily coupling the replacement first flexible connection assembly to the first contact assembly lead post body first end; and The replacement first flexible connection assembly is temporarily coupled to one of the line terminals or the load terminals.

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