Interrupter assembly

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an interrupter assembly. An interrupter assembly for a power distribution system is provided, the interrupter assembly being improved in at least one of compactness, durability, synchronicity, and dielectric withstand.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of the present invention relate to an interrupter assembly for a power distribution system. Background Art

[0002] Switchgear is used in power systems to control, protect, and isolate electrical equipment. In distribution networks, switchgear is located on the high-voltage and low-voltage sides of power transformers.

[0003] The field of the present disclosure relates to actuating mechanisms for opening / closing switchgear, such as circuit breakers for high and medium voltage power transmission and / or distribution networks.

[0004] A circuit breaker typically includes a pole assembly having a fixed contact and a movable contact for each phase. The movable contact is typically movable between a first position, in which the movable contact is coupled to the fixed contact, and a second position, in which the movable contact is decoupled from the fixed contact, thereby enabling opening and closing operations of the circuit breaker.

[0005] Typically, space is limited within the compartments of switchgear or circuit breakers, such as gas-insulated switchgear. The available space inside the switchgear or circuit breaker must not only accommodate all necessary components, such as actuating assemblies for actuation, such as movable contacts of the circuit breaker, but must also meet dielectric requirements.

[0006] Therefore, providing a compact actuation assembly (e.g., for installation within a switchgear compartment) while meeting dielectric requirements is a challenge. Improving durability (e.g., in terms of mechanical wear) while meeting dielectric requirements is also a challenge. Improving synchronicity between phases / poles (e.g., during closing and opening operations) while meeting dielectric requirements is also a challenge. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect, an interrupter assembly for a power distribution system is provided, the interrupter assembly having a driving lever, a link rod and an interrupter unit, wherein the interrupter unit has a movable contact and a fixed contact, the movable contact has a valve stem and is movable along the axis of the movable contact; wherein the driving lever is suitable for being driven by the link rod to drive the valve stem for moving the movable contact, wherein the link rod is connected to the driving lever via a link connector, which at least allows the link rod to rotate relative to the driving lever, wherein the driving lever is connected to the valve stem via a valve stem connector, which at least allows the driving lever to rotate relative to the valve stem, wherein the driving lever is mounted via a rotary joint, which allows the driving lever to rotate for transmitting the movement of the link rod to the movement of the valve stem, wherein the rotation axis of the link connector, the rotation axis of the rotary joint and the rotation axis of the valve stem connector are parallel to each other, wherein the link connector is arranged at an axial middle position between the valve stem connector and the fixed contact, and wherein the axial middle position is defined along the axis of the movable contact.

[0008] Preferably, the drive lever is mounted to the housing via a rotary joint.

[0009] Preferably, when the interrupter unit is in the closed state, the valve stem connection makes an angle of less than 30 degrees with a first line passing through the rotary joint, wherein the first line is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotary joint and perpendicular to the axis of the movable contact.

[0010] Preferably, the interrupter unit is installed in a gas insulated circuit breaker or an air insulated circuit breaker.

[0011] Preferably, the interrupter unit is a vacuum interrupter and comprises an interrupter housing for containing vacuum, or wherein the interrupter unit is a blow type switch and comprises an interrupter housing for containing insulating gas or air.

[0012] Preferably, at least one of the valve stem connector and the link connector is a second rotary joint.

[0013] Preferably, at least one of the following applies: the first axial length is at least half the second axial length, and the first axial length is less than the second axial length, wherein the first axial length is the axial length between the link connection and the rotary joint, wherein the second axial length is the axial length of the valve stem extending outside the interrupter housing when the interrupter unit is in the closed state, and wherein the axial length is the length along the axis of the movable contact.

[0014] Preferably, the first drive lever length is less than the second drive lever length, wherein the first drive lever length is the length from the valve stem connector to the rotary joint, and wherein the second drive lever length is the length from the link connector to the rotary joint.

[0015] Preferably, the interrupter assembly further includes a second interrupter unit and a third interrupter unit, and a second driving lever for the second interrupter unit and a third driving lever for the third interrupter unit.

[0016] Preferably, at least one item of the group consisting of a drive lever, a link rod, a rotary joint, and a link connector is of a polymer material.

[0017] Preferably, the interrupter assembly further comprises a housing for accommodating the interrupter assembly.

[0018] Preferably, at least one of the following applies: the housing is manufactured in one piece, and the housing is of a polymer material.

[0019] Preferably, the housing comprises at least one ventilation opening.

[0020] Preferably, the housing comprises at least one from the group consisting of: an interrupter unit anchoring interface for anchoring the interrupter unit, a drive lever anchoring interface for anchoring the drive lever, a flexible conductor anchoring interface for anchoring the flexible conductor, and a housing anchoring interface for anchoring to the housing.

[0021] Preferably, the interrupter assembly is configured for use in at least one of a medium voltage power distribution system and a high voltage power distribution system.

[0022] Preferably, the housing also houses the drive lever, at least a portion of the link rod, or both the drive lever and at least a portion of the link rod.

[0023] Thus, the interrupter assembly is improved in at least one (and advantageously more than one) of compactness, durability, synchronicity and dielectric tolerance.

[0024] Further advantages, features, aspects and details that can be combined with the embodiments described herein will become apparent from the description and the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The details will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which

[0026] Figure 1 shows an interrupter assembly according to embodiments described herein,

[0027] Figure 2 shows an interrupter assembly according to embodiments described herein,

[0028] Figure 3A shows a housing according to embodiments described herein, and

[0029] Figure 3B A housing according to embodiments described herein is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments, one or more examples of which are shown in each of the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation and is not meant to be limiting. For example, features illustrated or described as part of an embodiment may be used on or in conjunction with any other embodiment to produce further embodiments. This disclosure is intended to include such modifications and variations.

[0031] In the following description of the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals represent the same or similar components. Generally, only the differences with respect to the various embodiments are described. Unless otherwise specified, the description of a part or aspect in one embodiment also applies to the corresponding part or aspect in another embodiment.

[0032] The reference numerals used in the drawings are for illustration purposes only. The aspects described herein are not limited to any particular embodiment. Rather, unless otherwise specified, any aspect described herein may be combined with any other aspect(s) or embodiment(s) described herein.

[0033] According to aspects or embodiments described herein, the interrupter assembly is optimized with respect to at least one of size, dielectric tolerance, and operational life.

[0034] Figure 1 and Figure 2 Each shows an interrupter assembly according to an embodiment described herein. The interrupter assembly can be used in a power distribution system. In an example, the interrupter assembly can be suitable for use as a switchgear.

[0035] Embodiments and examples for providing a compact kinematic chain are described herein.

[0036] The limited space inside the housing 600 (e.g., gas compartment) makes it difficult to meet the dielectric requirements of compact switchgear. Building the moving or actuating components around the push rods of the interrupter(s) minimizes the overall height of the assembly and provides a compact mechanical operating system (kinematic chain).

[0037] Interrupters are usually constructed with a push rod and an actuating part below the main part of the interrupter. Therefore, it is advantageous to perform actuation of the interrupter (pole) by means of (multiple) drive levers (e.g. triangular parts) which convert the horizontal drive movement into vertical actuation.

[0038] The drive lever(s) can be pivoted around an axis in the lower part of the assembly and can carry the static / dynamic loads from the push rod. The drive lever(s) can be linked together with a horizontally movable crossbar that can be mounted in the available space around the valve stem of the movable contact (e.g., the push rod of each pole).

[0039] Advantageously, an assembly (eg, interrupter unit 200 ), including, for example, the valve stem 280 , has a relatively low overall height.

[0040] The interrupter assembly comprises an interrupter unit 200. The interrupter assembly may comprise a plurality of interrupter units.

[0041] For example, the interrupter assembly may include three interrupter units, such as a first interrupter unit 200, a second interrupter unit, and a third interrupter unit for three-phase power. Therefore, the interrupter assembly may include a first driving lever 100 for the first interrupter unit 200, a second driving lever for the second interrupter unit, and a third driving lever for the third interrupter unit.

[0042] A plurality of interrupter units may be arranged in a line, for example, in a line parallel to the axis of the link rod 300 .

[0043] Therefore, the interrupter assembly can be configured for a three-phase power distribution system.

[0044] For example, an interrupter unit is provided for each phase of the power distribution system.

[0045] The interrupter assembly includes an interrupter unit 200. The interrupter unit 200 includes a fixed contact 240 and a movable contact 260.

[0046] The interrupter unit 200 may include an interrupter housing 220. The interrupter housing 220 may be made of a ceramic material and / or a glass material. The interrupter housing 220 may be hermetically sealed or configured to be hermetically sealed. The interrupter housing 220 may be airtight.

[0047] The movable contact 260 is movable along its axis 262. In the closed state of the interrupter unit 200, the movable contact 260 is located in contact with the fixed contact 240. In the open state of the interrupter unit 200, the movable contact 260 is separated from the fixed contact 240. The movable contact 260 can be electrically connected to the terminal via a flexible conductor 264.

[0048] The interrupter assembly includes a drive lever 100 .

[0049] The drive lever 100 may include a rotary joint 120. The drive lever 100 may be mounted to the housing 500, for example, via the rotary joint 120. In an example, the rotary joint 120 may include a shaft. The rotary joint 120 may allow the drive lever 100 to rotate, for example, about the rotary joint 120 or an axis of the rotary joint 120.

[0050] The driving lever 100 may be configured to be rotatable about the rotary joint 120. The driving lever 100 may be configured to transmit the movement of the link rod 300 to the movement of the valve stem 280.

[0051] Thus, the drive lever 100 may be mounted via a rotary joint 120 that allows rotation of the drive lever 100 to transmit movement of the link rod 300 to movement of the valve stem 280 .

[0052] A plurality of driving levers may be provided for each interrupter unit 200 . Figure 1 An example of providing four (or two pairs) of drive levers for each interrupter unit 200 is shown. The drive levers can be rigidly connected together. The drive levers can be parallel to each other. The drive levers can be arranged at a distance from each other. The drive levers can be configured as a pair (e.g., mirror image), or three or more.

[0053] The interrupter assembly includes a link rod 300 .

[0054] The driving lever 100 can be connected to the link rod 300 via a link connector 320, for example. The link connector 320 can allow the link rod 300 to rotate relative to the driving lever 100. In an example, the link connector 320 can be a rotary joint. Therefore, the link rod 300 can be connected to the driving lever via the link connector 320, thereby at least allowing the link rod 300 to rotate relative to the driving lever 100.

[0055] The drive lever 100 can be configured to be driven by the link rod 300. For example, when the link rod 300 moves, the link connector 320 is configured to rotate the drive lever 100 about the rotary joint 120. The movement of the link rod 300 can be a substantially horizontal movement, for example, a horizontal component of the movement greater than 50%, advantageously greater than 60%, more advantageously greater than 80%, and even more advantageously greater than 90% of the total amplitude of the movement.

[0056] The driving lever 100 may be connected to an actuation energy source (not shown). For example, the driving lever 100 may be connected to the actuation energy source via a link rod 300 .

[0057] An actuation energy source may be provided for actuating the movable contact 260. Energy may be transmitted between the actuation energy source via the primary actuation shaft 420, the transmission link 440, and / or the secondary actuation shaft 460. The actuation energy source, the primary actuation shaft 420, the transmission link 440, and / or the secondary actuation shaft 460 may be disposed outside the housing 600.

[0058] Embodiments of the actuation lever 100 are described herein.

[0059] The first axial length 720 may be defined as the axial length between the link connector 320 and the rotary joint 120. The second axial length 740 may be defined as the axial length of the valve stem 280 extending outside the interrupter housing 220 when the interrupter unit 200 is in the closed state. Furthermore, the axial length may be defined as the length along the axis 262 of the movable contact, for example, along a line parallel to the axis 262 of the movable contact.

[0060] The drive lever 100 can, for example, be configured in its arrangement and geometry such that the first axial length 720 is at least half of the second axial length 740. For example, the valve stem connector 282 and / or the linkage connector 320 can be arranged such that the first axial length 720 is at least half of the second axial length 740. Thus, the force required to actuate the drive lever 100 is reduced.

[0061] Alternatively or additionally, the drive lever 100 can be configured, for example, in its arrangement and geometry such that the first axial length 720 is less than the second axial length 740. For example, the valve stem connector 282 and / or the linkage connector 320 can be arranged such that the first axial length is at least half the second axial length 740. Thus, the movement of the linkage rod 300 required to actuate the drive lever 100 is reduced.

[0062] Further embodiments of the actuation lever 100 are described herein.

[0063] The first drive lever length 760 can be defined as the length from the valve stem connector 282 to the rotating joint 120. The second drive lever length 780 can be defined as the length from the linkage connector 320 to the rotating joint 120. In addition, the first drive lever length 760 and / or the second drive lever length 780 can be defined as the length perpendicular to the axis of the rotating joint 120.

[0064] The actuation lever 100 can, for example, be configured in its arrangement and geometry such that the first actuation lever length 760 is less than the second actuation lever length 780. For example, the valve stem connector 282 and / or the rotary joint 120 can be arranged such that the first actuation lever length 760 is less than the second actuation lever length 780. Consequently, the force required to actuate the valve stem connector 282 and / or the connected valve stem 280 is reduced. Consequently, durability and compactness are improved as mechanical stresses / requirements are reduced.

[0065] The link rod 300 can provide multiple functions. For example, the link rod 300 can be formed as a single piece with multiple functions. The link rod 300 can be molded as a single component. The link rod 300 can be formed from a polymer. The single-piece, multi-functional link rod 300 is more rigid or stiffer than a multi-component structure. The single-piece link rod 300 also makes assembly simpler and faster, for example, because adjustments between components of a multi-component link rod are not required.

[0066] The movable contact 260 includes a stem 280 .

[0067] The driving lever 100 can be connected to the movable contact 260 via the valve stem 280 of the movable contact 260, for example. The driving lever 100 can be connected to the valve stem 280 via a valve stem connector 282. The valve stem connector 282 can allow the valve stem 280 to rotate relative to the driving lever 100. In an example, the valve stem connector 282 can be a rotary joint. Therefore, the driving lever 100 can be connected to the valve stem 280 via the valve stem connector 282, thereby at least allowing the driving lever 100 to rotate relative to the valve stem 280.

[0068] For example, when the interrupter unit 200 is in the closed state, the valve stem connector 282 may be at an angle of less than 30 degrees to the first line. Alternatively, for example, when the interrupter unit 200 is in the closed state, the valve stem connector 282 may be at an angle of less than 25 degrees to the first line, advantageously less than 20 degrees, and even more advantageously less than 10 degrees to the first line.

[0069] Alternatively, the actuation lever 100 can be configured in its arrangement and geometry, for example, so that the valve stem connector 282 is at most 30 degrees from the first line. Alternatively, the actuation lever 100 can be configured so that the valve stem connector 282 is at most 25 degrees from the first line, more preferably at most 20 degrees, even more preferably at most 15 degrees, and most preferably at most 10 degrees.

[0070] The first line can be defined as a line passing through the rotary joint 120 (e.g., passing through the center of the rotary joint 120), perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotary joint 120, and perpendicular to the axis 262 of the movable contact. Alternatively, the first line can be a horizontal line, such as relative to the direction of gravity, or when the axis 262 of the movable contact is a vertical line.

[0071] The angle of the stem connector 282 and the first line may be defined as an angular direction toward the stationary contact 240 or an angular direction toward the link connector 320 .

[0072] Thus, lateral movement of the valve stem 280 and / or the movable contact 260 (eg, movement that is non-parallel to the axis 262 of the movable contact) is advantageously small.

[0073] The drive lever 100 can be configured to drive the valve stem 280. For example, the valve stem connector 282 is configured to move the valve stem 280 when the drive lever 100 is rotated. The movement of the valve stem 280 can be a substantially vertical movement, for example, the vertical component of the movement is greater than 50%, advantageously greater than 60%, more advantageously greater than 80%, and even more advantageously greater than 90% of the total amplitude of the movement.

[0074] The driving lever 100 may be configured to be driven by the link rod 300 to drive the valve stem 280 for moving the movable contact 260 .

[0075] The drive lever 100 can be configured to convert horizontal motion from an actuation energy source (not shown) (e.g., a spring mechanism) into vertical actuation of the interrupter unit 200 or movement of the movable contact 260. Thus, the movable contact 260 of the interrupter assembly can be actuated by the actuation energy source.

[0076] It will be appreciated that there are numerous possible arrangements of the position of the drive lever 100 and the positions of the link connector 320 and the valve stem connector 282 on the drive lever 100 for converting the substantially horizontal movement of the link rod 300 into substantially vertical movement of the valve stem 280 .

[0077] In the example, the positions of the rotary joint 120 , the linkage connector 320 , and the valve stem connector 282 on the drive lever 100 are arranged to form a triangle.

[0078] In another example, the drive lever 100 can be mirrored (eg sideways), for example with the rotary joint 120 arranged across the axis 262 of the movable contact. In this case, the movement of the linking rod 300 is reversed to close and open the interrupter unit 200.

[0079] The driving lever 100 may be disposed around the movable contact 260 , for example, around the stem 280 of the movable contact 260 .

[0080] The link connector 320 may be disposed at an axially intermediate position between the stem connector 282 and the fixed contact 240. The link rod 300 may be disposed at an axially intermediate position between the stem connector 282 and the fixed contact 240. The axially intermediate position may be defined along the axis 262 of the movable contact, for example, along a line parallel to the axis 262 of the movable contact.

[0081] Alternatively or additionally, the link connector 320 may be disposed at an axially intermediate position between the rotary joint 120 and the fixed contact 240. The link rod 300 may be disposed at an axially intermediate position between the rotary joint 120 and the fixed contact 240. The axially intermediate position may be defined along the axis 262 of the movable contact, for example, along a line parallel to the axis 262 of the movable contact.

[0082] Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the group consisting of the link rod 300, the link connector 320, the drive lever 100, the rotary joint 120, and the valve stem connector 282 is arranged at (a plurality of) axial intermediate positions (e.g., when the interrupter unit 200 is in the disconnected state) between the bottom end portion of the valve stem 280 and the fixed contact 240. The bottom end portion of the valve stem 280 is the end of the valve stem 280 farthest from the point of contact of the movable contact 260 with the fixed contact 240, or the end of the valve stem 280 farthest from the fixed contact 240, or the end of the valve stem 280 outside the interrupter housing 220.

[0083] Alternatively or additionally, the valve stem connector 282 on the drive lever 100 (or the portion of the drive lever 100 connected to the valve stem 280) may be the portion of the drive lever 100 farthest from the fixed contact 240 (eg, when the interrupter unit 200 is in the disconnected state).

[0084] Alternatively or additionally, the rotary joint 120 of the driving lever 100 may be a portion of the driving lever 100 that is farthest from the fixed contact 240 (eg, when the interrupter unit 200 is in the off state).

[0085] Therefore, the height of the interrupter assembly is low, and the interrupter assembly can be made compact.

[0086] Embodiments and examples for energy-efficient kinematic chains are described herein.

[0087] The entire system of moving mechanical parts can be designed so that all force vectors act along or parallel to the same plane.Therefore, the efficient use of energy in the mechanical drive for opening and closing the interrupter unit 200 is improved and energy losses are reduced.

[0088] The mechanical drive may be provided with a stronger actuation energy source than necessary, such as a high energy spring, in order to open or close the interrupter unit 200 with a safety margin.

[0089] Energy losses (e.g., energy losses due to friction) in the kinematic chain between the drive energy source (not shown) (e.g., a drive spring) and the valve stem 280 (e.g., a push rod spring assembly) of the movable contact 260 may be a reason for having a safety margin. In addition, different transmission links interacting at different angles and directions may consume energy.

[0090] Having a stronger actuation energy source than required (e.g. a stronger drive spring) can create mechanical durability challenges (e.g. due to high shock and vibration in the system). Therefore, it is advantageous to have direct linear motion rather than, for example, rotational motion, e.g. within a (gas / airtight) enclosure 600, where the entire system of moving mechanical parts can be such that all force vectors act along or parallel to the same plane.

[0091] In this way, friction losses are reduced and energy in a mechanical drive, such as a spring-driven mechanical drive, is efficiently utilized.

[0092] The principal plane of the force vector in the mechanical drive can remain unchanged throughout the entire kinematic chain. For example, the force can be transmitted between the actuation energy source and the movable contact 260 via the link rod 300 and the drive lever 100 .

[0093] The rotation axis of the rotary joint 120, the rotation axis of the linkage connector 320, and the rotation axis of the valve stem connector 282 may be parallel to one another.

[0094] In addition, an actuating energy source (not shown), such as a spring mechanism and / or a manual lever (or a loading motor) for reloading the spring mechanism, can be configured to move in a line or plane parallel to a plane of motion from at least one item in the group including the movable contact 260, the valve stem 280, the drive lever 100, and the link rod 300.

[0095] In this way, the movement of the movable contact 260 and the operating force of the movement transmission components (such as the valve stem 280, the drive lever 100, the link rod 300, the spring (not shown) and / or the manual lever (or the charging motor)) can be parallel to the same plane. Therefore, the (motion) energy loss along the motion chain from the actuation energy source to the movable contact 260 is reduced.

[0096] Therefore, the mechanical shock / vibration during the opening and closing operation is reduced and the durability is improved. In addition, the mechanical requirements for the mechanical drive components (such as the link rod 300, (a plurality of) springs (not shown)) can be reduced and the compactness can be improved.

[0097] Embodiments and examples related to electrical isolation and strong kinematic chains are described herein.

[0098] Typically, a combination of both isolating and conductive construction elements is used in circuit breakers, wherein the conductive construction elements are typically selected for their mechanical properties.Those conductive construction elements that address the mechanical requirements are typically dielectrically disadvantageous.

[0099] The use of metal and steel materials often adds to many advanced shapes of field controllers in order to maintain the required dielectric tolerance inside the housing 600. Additionally, the rigidity of the multi-part construction is often not good enough to achieve proper synchronization between phases.

[0100] The use of polymeric materials provides advantages in stiffness and dielectric withstand.Polymeric materials (such as thermoset plastics) also improve / reduce the number of components in a circuit breaker as many functions are designed into each component.

[0101] Using strong thermosetting polymer materials to construct the load-bearing kinematic chain components provides a rigid, hard, and non-conductive construction. Consequently, cost advantages can be achieved, such as material costs, reduced component count, and the elimination of the need for a field controller. Due to the reduced component count, assembly time is also advantageously reduced. Dielectric resistance is improved by using polymer materials. Compactness is also improved because polymer kinematic chains (such as polymer link rod 300) have increased dielectric resistance, allowing for a more compact arrangement.

[0102] Using a strong thermosetting polymer material to construct the entire load-bearing kinematic chain (eg, the drive lever 100 and the link rod 300 ) advantageously provides a rigid, hard, and electrically non-conductive construction. In an example, the drive lever 100 and / or the link rod 300 are of a polymer material.

[0103] The polymer used (eg thermosetting material) may advantageously have a high elastic modulus to achieve stiffness, low warpage and / or post-shrinkage after manufacturing. The polymer material used may be thermally stable, low cost and / or a cross-linked molecular structure.

[0104] In an example, a polymer (eg, a thermoset) may have a strength of at least 1500 N / mm 2 Modulus of elasticity, advantageously at least 3000 N / mm 2 , more advantageously at least 5000 N / mm 2 , most advantageously at least 10000 N / mm 2 . Thus, a rigid construction is achieved and synchronicity is improved.

[0105] In an example, a polymer (eg, a thermoset) may have a strength of at least 20 N / mm 2 Tensile strength, advantageously at least 30 N / mm 2 , more advantageously at least 50 N / mm 2 , most advantageously at least 65N / mm 2 Thus, a robust construction is achieved and compactness is improved.

[0106] In an example, a polymer (e.g., a thermoset material) can have a shrinkage (when molded) of at most 2%, advantageously at most 1%, more advantageously at most 0.5%, and most advantageously at most 0.12%. Consequently, residual stresses are reduced, thereby improving mechanical integrity / strength and compactness. Furthermore, assembly tolerances are improved, thereby improving tight fit and thus stiffness.

[0107] In an example, a polymer with 20% to 70% glass fiber reinforcement may be used. Polyester or epoxy resin may be used as the matrix material. The matrix material may have a cross-linked molecular structure.

[0108] Alternatively or in addition to thermoset materials, (high-performance) thermoplastic polymers such as glass-fiber reinforced polycarbonate (PC) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) may also be used.

[0109] Thus, many advantages are provided, such as a multifunctional component for reducing the number of components, improved stiffness, improved synchronicity and a compact interrupter assembly, and improved dielectric properties for increasing the dielectric withstand of the compact interrupter assembly.

[0110] Polymer materials may be used to manufacture components (such as the link rod 300 and the drive lever 100 ) by means of compression molding, injection molding, and / or profile pultrusion.

[0111] Embodiments of an interrupter unit are described herein.

[0112] The interrupter unit 200 may be installed in a gas-insulated circuit breaker or an air-insulated circuit breaker. For example, the housing 600 may be configured to accommodate gas insulation or air insulation.

[0113] The interrupter unit 200 may be a vacuum interrupter. For example, the interrupter unit 200 may include an interrupter housing 220 for containing a vacuum. Therefore, the interrupter unit 200 may be suitable for circuit breakers and / or higher (relative to air-blowing types) rated voltages.

[0114] Alternatively, the interrupter unit 200 may be an air-blowing type switch. For example, the interrupter unit 200 may include an interrupter housing 220 for containing insulating gas or air. Thus, the interrupter unit 200 may be suitable for load breakers and / or lower (relative to vacuum) rated voltages.

[0115] Embodiments and examples are described herein in connection with non-conductive wear elements.

[0116] The load-bearing structural elements are usually made of steel and / or metallic materials which have advantageous mechanical properties but unfavorable dielectric properties in medium and high voltage applications.

[0117] Furthermore, according to mechanical durability tests, wear components such as bearings and couplings made of conductive components such as steel, copper, and bronze may generate conductive particles. Conductive particles in the housing 600 (eg, the gas compartment) may adversely affect dielectric withstand.

[0118] Wear resistance can be improved. Alternatively or additionally, it may be advantageous to use wear elements of polymeric material, for example in moving parts. Even more advantageously, polymeric wear elements may be used in dielectrically critical locations.

[0119] In an example, the rotary joint 120 and / or the link connector 320 may be made of a polymer material. For example, polymer bearing(s) may be used in the rotary joint 120 and / or the link connector 320. Thus, for example, no conductive particles are generated in the housing 600, and dielectric resistance is improved.

[0120] The bearing unit and / or shaft of the stem connector 282, which may be located on the lower portion of the valve stem 280 (e.g., at the end of the valve stem 280), may be metal (e.g., bronze). The valve stem 280 may also be metal (e.g., copper, steel, or bronze). The valve stem 280 and / or the stem connector 282 may be electrically conductive because it / they may be electrically shielded by the relatively large interrupter unit 200 (e.g., by the movable contact 260 of the interrupter unit 200). Thus, cost-effective mechanical robustness is provided.

[0121] In addition, polymer wear elements (such as polymer bearings) are advantageous in terms of cost and wear resistance. According to wear resistance tests, in 10,000 operations, with a higher mechanical load than expected during normal operation, no measurable wear was shown and excellent mechanical properties were demonstrated.

[0122] Therefore, the use of polymer materials in wear elements, such as in rotary joint 120 and / or link connection 320, is advantageous in terms of structural integrity, electrical insulation, and mechanical performance.

[0123] In addition, the wear components of the housing 500 (eg, the bearing shaft or the anchoring interface) may also be made of polymer materials. The anchoring interfaces include the interrupter anchoring interface 510 , the drive lever anchoring interface 520 , the flexible conductor anchoring interface 530 , and the housing anchoring interface 540 .

[0124] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Each shows a housing according to an embodiment described herein.

[0125] The housing structure may be a plurality of interfaces for anchoring various components and anchoring to the housing 600 surrounding the interrupter assembly. Thus, the housing structure typically includes many different components to be assembled. Due to the extreme adjustments, the large number of components makes assembly time-consuming and complicated.

[0126] Furthermore, the housing structure of the interrupter assembly is usually subjected to both static and dynamic loads. Therefore, steel / metal materials are usually used, which have favorable mechanical properties but unfavorable dielectric properties.

[0127] The interrupter assembly may include a housing 500 .

[0128] The housing 500 may be a frame or bracket structure. The housing 500 may be configured to house an interrupter assembly, such as the drive lever 100 , and / or at least a portion of the link rod 300 .

[0129] The housing 500 may be manufactured as a single piece, thereby providing a torsionally rigid construction with a low (mechanical) energy absorption / loss housing.

[0130] The housing 500 may be of a polymer material. Thus, the housing 500 has improved dielectric resistance because no metal fasteners are required. The improved dielectric performance also improves the compactness of the interrupter assembly.

[0131] The housing 500 may include an interrupter unit anchoring interface 510 for anchoring the interrupter unit 200 , an actuation lever anchoring interface 520 for anchoring the actuation lever 100 , a flexible conductor anchoring interface 530 for anchoring the flexible conductor 264 , and / or a housing anchoring interface 540 for anchoring to the housing 600 .

[0132] The housing 500 can be configured to anchor elements of the interrupter assembly and / or to be anchored to the housing 600. For example, the housing 500 is manufactured as a single piece with different anchoring interfaces.

[0133] The housing 500 may include at least one ventilation opening 550 for dissipating heat.

[0134] Thus, stiffness, part count, tolerance chain, assembly, dielectric performance, and cost are improved since different functions (eg, various anchoring and ventilation) are simultaneously provided by the single piece polymer housing 500. Better dielectric performance also enables a compact interrupter assembly.

[0135] Further examples are described below.

[0136] According to embodiment 1, an interrupter assembly for a power distribution system is provided, the interrupter assembly comprising a driving lever (100), a linking rod (300), and an interrupter unit (200), wherein the interrupter unit (200) comprises a movable contact (260) and a fixed contact (240), the movable contact (260) having a valve stem (280) and being movable along an axis (262) of the movable contact; wherein the driving lever (100) is adapted to be driven by the linking rod (300) to drive the valve stem (280) for moving the movable contact (260), wherein the linking rod (300) is connected to the driving lever (100) via a linking connector (320), the linking connector (320) at least allowing the linking rod (300) to rotate relative to the driving lever (100), wherein the driving lever (100) 0) is connected to the valve stem (280) via a valve stem connector (282), the valve stem connector (282) allowing at least rotation of the drive lever (100) relative to the valve stem (280), wherein the drive lever (100) is mounted via a rotary joint (120), the rotary joint (120) allowing rotation of the drive lever (100) for transmitting the movement of the link rod (300) to the movement of the valve stem (280), wherein the rotation axis of the link connector (320), the rotation axis of the rotary joint (120), and the rotation axis of the valve stem connector (282) are parallel to each other, wherein the link connector (320) is arranged in an axial middle position between the valve stem connector (282) and the fixed contact (240), and wherein the axial middle position is defined along the axis (262) of the movable contact.

[0137] According to embodiment 2, there is provided the interrupter assembly according to embodiment 1, wherein the drive lever (100) is mounted to the housing (500) via a rotary joint (120).

[0138] According to embodiment 3, an interrupter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 2 is provided, wherein when the interrupter unit (200) is in a closed state, the angle of the valve stem connector (282) to a first line passing through the rotating joint (120) is less than 30 degrees, wherein the first line is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating joint (120) and perpendicular to the axis (262) of the movable contact.

[0139] According to embodiment 4, there is provided the interrupter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the interrupter unit (200) is installed in a gas insulated circuit breaker or an air insulated circuit breaker.

[0140] According to embodiment 5, there is provided an interrupter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the interrupter unit (200) is a vacuum interrupter and includes an interrupter housing (220) for accommodating a vacuum, or wherein the interrupter unit (200) is an air-blowing type switch and includes an interrupter housing (220) for accommodating an insulating gas or air.

[0141] According to embodiment 6, there is provided the interrupter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the valve stem connector (282) and / or the link connector (320) is a rotary type joint.

[0142] According to embodiment 7, an interrupter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6 is provided, wherein the first axial length (720) is at least half of the second axial length (740) and / or the first axial length (720) is less than the second axial length (740), wherein the first axial length (720) is the axial length between the link connector (320) and the rotary joint (120), wherein the second axial length (740) is the axial length of the valve stem (280) extending outside the interrupter housing (220) when the interrupter unit (200) is in a closed state, and wherein the axial length is the length along the axis (262) of the movable contact.

[0143] According to embodiment 8, an interrupter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7 is provided, wherein the first drive lever length (760) is less than the second drive lever length (780), wherein the first drive lever length (760) is the length from the valve stem connector (282) to the rotating joint (120), and wherein the second drive lever length (780) is the length from the link connector (320) to the rotating joint (120).

[0144] According to embodiment 9, there is provided the interrupter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8, further comprising a second interrupter unit and a third interrupter unit, and a second drive lever for the second interrupter unit and a third drive lever for the third interrupter unit.

[0145] According to embodiment 10, an interrupter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9 is provided, wherein at least one item of the group including the drive lever (100), the link rod (300), the rotary joint (120), and the link connector (320) is a polymer material.

[0146] According to embodiment 11, an interrupter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10 is provided, further comprising a housing (500) for accommodating the interrupter assembly and optionally for accommodating at least one item from the group comprising a drive lever (100), at least a portion of a link rod (300).

[0147] According to embodiment 12, there is provided the interrupter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the housing (500) is manufactured as a single piece and / or the housing (500) is of a polymer material.

[0148] According to embodiment 13, there is provided the interrupter assembly according to embodiment 11 or 12, wherein the housing (500) includes at least one vent opening (550).

[0149] According to embodiment 14, an interrupter assembly according to any one of embodiments 11 to 13 is provided, wherein the housing (500) includes at least one item from the group consisting of: an interrupter unit anchoring interface (510) for anchoring the interrupter unit (200), a drive lever anchoring interface (520) for anchoring the drive lever (100), a flexible conductor anchoring interface (530) for anchoring the flexible conductor (264), and a housing anchoring interface (540) for anchoring to the housing (600).

[0150] According to embodiment 15, there is provided the interrupter assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the interrupter assembly is configured for use in a medium voltage power distribution system and / or a high voltage power distribution system.

[0151] Reference numerals

[0152] 100 driving lever

[0153] 120 rotary joint

[0154] 200 interrupter units

[0155] 220 interrupter shell

[0156] 240 fixed contacts

[0157] 260 movable contacts

[0158] 262Axis of movable contact

[0159] 264 flexible conductor

[0160] 280 valve stem

[0161] 282 valve stem connector

[0162] 300 connecting rod

[0163] 320 link connector

[0164] 420 main actuating shaft

[0165] 440 transmission link

[0166] 460 actuation axes

[0167] 500 shell

[0168] 510 Interrupter Unit Anchor Interface

[0169] 520 drive lever anchor interface

[0170] 530 flexible conductor anchoring interface

[0171] 540 shell anchor interface

[0172] 550 ventilation openings

[0173] 600 shell

[0174] 720 first axial length

[0175] 740 second axial length

[0176] 760 First drive lever length

[0177] 780 Second drive lever length

Claims

1. An interrupter assembly for a power distribution system, the interrupter assembly comprising a driving lever, a link rod, and an interrupter unit, wherein the interrupter unit includes a movable contact and a fixed contact, the movable contact having a stem and being movable along an axis of the movable contact; wherein the driving lever is adapted to be driven by the link rod to drive the valve stem for moving the movable contact; wherein the link rod is connected to the drive lever via a link connection, the link connection allowing at least a rotation of the link rod relative to the drive lever, wherein the drive lever is connected to the valve stem via a valve stem connector, the valve stem connector at least allowing rotation of the drive lever relative to the valve stem, wherein the drive lever is mounted via a rotary joint, the rotary joint allowing rotation of the drive lever for transmitting the movement of the link rod to the movement of the valve stem, wherein the rotation axis of the link connector, the rotation axis of the rotary joint, and the rotation axis of the valve stem connector are parallel to each other, wherein the link connector is arranged at an axially intermediate position between the valve stem connector and the fixed contact, and The axial intermediate position is defined along the axis of the movable contact.

2. The interrupter assembly of claim 1, wherein the drive lever is mounted to the housing via the rotary joint.

3. The interrupter assembly of claim 1 , wherein when the interrupter unit is in a closed state, the valve stem connector is at an angle of less than 30 degrees to a first line passing through the rotary joint, wherein the first line is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotary joint and perpendicular to the axis of the movable contact. 4 . The interrupter assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the interrupter unit is installed in a gas insulated circuit breaker or an air insulated circuit breaker.

5. The interrupter assembly according to claim 1, wherein the interrupter unit is a vacuum interrupter and includes an interrupter housing for containing vacuum, or wherein the interrupter unit is a blow type switch and includes an interrupter housing for containing insulating gas or air.

6. The interrupter assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of the valve stem connector and the link connector is a second rotary joint.

7. The interrupter assembly of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the following applies: a first axial length is at least half of a second axial length, and the first axial length is less than the second axial length, wherein the first axial length is an axial length between the link connection and the rotary joint, wherein the second axial length is an axial length of the valve stem extending outside the interrupter housing when the interrupter unit is in a closed state, and wherein the axial length is a length along the axis of the movable contact.

8. The interrupter assembly of claim 1 , wherein a first drive lever length is less than a second drive lever length, wherein the first drive lever length is a length from the valve stem connector to the rotating joint, and wherein the second drive lever length is a length from the link connector to the rotating joint.

9. The interrupter assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second interrupter unit and a third interrupter unit, and a second driving lever for the second interrupter unit and a third driving lever for the third interrupter unit.

10. The interrupter assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one item of the group consisting of the drive lever, the link rod, the rotary joint, and the link connector is a polymer material.

11. The interrupter assembly of claim 2, further comprising the housing for housing the interrupter assembly.

12. The interrupter assembly of claim 11, wherein at least one of the following applies: the housing is manufactured as a single piece, and the housing is of a polymer material.

13. The interrupter assembly of claim 11, wherein the housing includes at least one vent opening.

14. The interrupter assembly of claim 11 , wherein the housing comprises at least one item from the group consisting of: an interrupter unit anchoring interface for anchoring the interrupter unit, a drive lever anchoring interface for anchoring the drive lever, a flexible conductor anchoring interface for anchoring a flexible conductor, and a housing anchoring interface for anchoring to a housing.

15. The interrupter assembly of claim 1, wherein the interrupter assembly is configured for use in at least one of a medium voltage power distribution system and a high voltage power distribution system.

16. The interrupter assembly of claim 11, wherein: The housing also houses the drive lever, at least a portion of the link rod, or both the drive lever and at least a portion of the link rod.

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