Inertial short circuit and seismic hook

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure can include an inertial short and earthquake hook for electrical equipment circuit breakers.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to circuit breakers and, in particular, to systems and methods for providing an inertial short and seismic hook. Background Art

[0002] Conventional substation equipment, such as low-voltage and high-voltage equipment, is often elevated above the ground using support structures that keep the equipment properly elevated to protect equipment and personnel. In seismically active areas, substation equipment may disconnect in response to an unexpected seismic event, potentially damaging electrical components of the substation equipment and endangering personnel lives. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Some or all of the above needs and / or problems may be addressed by certain embodiments of the present disclosure.Certain embodiments may include an inertia shorting and seismic hook for an electrical equipment disconnect switch.

[0004] According to one embodiment, a circuit disconnect device may be provided. The circuit disconnect device may include a catch device mounted to a first conductor of a circuit, wherein the catch device is coupled to the first conductor such that the catch device freely moves from a first position to a second position along a predetermined first path at a movement speed less than a limit speed, and such that the catch device moves along a predetermined second path at a movement speed greater than the limit speed. While moving along the predetermined second path, the catch device engages a stop device, thereby preventing the circuit disconnect device from disconnecting.

[0005] In at least one embodiment, the capture device may include a first mass body guided by a guiding force along a predetermined first path having a curved path, and when the inertial force of the capture device moving along the curved path exceeds the guiding force, the capture device deviates from the curved path and follows a predetermined second path.

[0006] In at least one embodiment, the guiding force may include at least one of: gravity, a controlled force, a controlled and expected force, and a spring force.

[0007] In at least one embodiment, the catch means comprises a pin and the retaining means comprises a hook portion of a C-shaped plate comprising an L-shaped body with a lip.

[0008] According to another embodiment, a method for using a circuit disconnect device may be provided. The method may include manipulating a catch device attached to a first conductor of a circuit from a first position to a second position along a predetermined first path at a movement speed less than a limit speed, wherein the catch device is connected to the first conductor. The method may also include manipulating the catch device along a predetermined second path at a movement speed greater than the limit speed. The method may also include engaging a stop device with the catch device while moving along the predetermined second path, thereby preventing the circuit disconnect device from disconnecting.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, the capture device includes a first mass body guided by a guiding force along a predetermined first path including a curved path, and the method further includes: when the inertial force of the capture device moving along the curved path exceeds the guiding force, deviating from the curved path, wherein the capture device follows a predetermined second path.

[0010] In at least one embodiment, the guiding force may include at least one of: gravity, a controlled force, a controlled and expected force, and a spring force.

[0011] According to one embodiment, a circuit disconnect device is disclosed. The circuit disconnect device may include a movable blade plate mounted to a first conductor of a circuit, wherein the movable blade plate includes a pin mounted to a portion of the movable blade plate. The circuit disconnect device may also include a pivot lever mounted in a fixed position relative to a second conductor of the circuit. The circuit disconnect device may further include a C-shaped plate mounted to the pivot rod, wherein the C-shaped plate rotates about an axis relative to the pivot rod, the C-shaped plate having an elongated portion connected to a hook portion, with an opening between the elongated portion and the hook portion; wherein, when the device is in a closed position, the movable blade plate moves adjacent to the C-shaped plate, wherein the pin moves within the opening of the C-shaped plate and the pin contacts the C-shaped plate; wherein, when an intended disconnect operation is initiated for the device, the movable blade plate retracts away from the C-shaped plate, wherein the pin moves along the elongated portion until the pin disengages from the C-shaped plate and is no longer within the opening of the C-shaped plate; and wherein, when an unexpected disconnect event occurs and the device is in the closed position, the pin is retained within the opening of the C-shaped plate and the pin remains in contact with the elongated portion or the hook portion of the C-shaped plate.

[0012] According to yet another embodiment, a method for providing a circuit disconnect device is disclosed. The method may include providing a movable blade plate mounted to a first conductor of the circuit, wherein the movable blade plate includes a pin mounted to a portion of the movable blade plate. The method may also include providing a pivot lever mounted in a fixed position relative to a second conductor of the circuit. The method may further include providing a C-shaped plate mounted to a fixed pivot rod, wherein the C-shaped plate rotates about an axis relative to the pivot rod, the C-shaped plate having an elongated portion connected to a hook portion, with an opening between the elongated portion and the hook portion; wherein, when the device is in a closed position, the movable blade plate moves adjacent to the C-shaped plate, wherein the pin moves within the opening of the C-shaped plate and the pin contacts the C-shaped plate; wherein, when a disconnect operation is initiated for the device, the movable blade plate retracts away from the C-shaped plate, wherein the pin moves along the elongated portion until the pin disengages from the C-shaped plate and is no longer within the opening of the C-shaped plate; and wherein, when an unexpected disconnect event occurs and the device is initially in a closed position, the movable pin is retained within the opening of the C-shaped plate and the pin remains in contact with the elongated portion or the hook portion of the C-shaped plate.

[0013] In yet another embodiment, a circuit disconnect device is disclosed. The circuit disconnect device may include a movable blade plate mounted to a first conductor of the circuit, wherein the movable blade plate includes an outer surface. The circuit disconnect device may include a connecting device mounted to a second conductor of the circuit. The circuit disconnect device may also include a mechanism operable to provide contact between the movable blade plate and the connecting device when the device is in a closed position; wherein when a disconnect operation is initiated for the device, the movable blade plate retracts away from the connecting device, wherein the mechanism allows the movable blade plate to retract away from the connecting device until there is no contact between the movable blade plate and the connecting device; and wherein, when an unexpected disconnect event occurs and the device is in the closed position, the mechanism prevents the movable blade plate from retracting from the connecting device and maintains contact between the movable blade plate and the connecting device.

[0014] In yet another embodiment, a method for using a circuit disconnect device is disclosed. The method may include manipulating a movable blade plate mounted to a first conductor of the circuit, wherein the movable blade plate includes a pin mounted to a portion of the movable blade plate toward a pivot rod mounted in a fixed position relative to a second conductor of the circuit, wherein a C-shaped plate is mounted to the pivot rod. The method may further include rotating the C-shaped plate about an axis relative to the pivot rod as the movable blade plate moves toward the pivot rod, the C-shaped plate having an elongated portion connected to a hook portion, with an opening between the elongated portion and the hook portion. The method may further include maintaining contact between the movable blade plate and the C-shaped plate when the device is in a closed position, wherein the pin moves within the opening of the C-shaped plate and contacts the C-shaped plate. The method may further include retracting the movable blade plate away from the C-shaped plate when a desired disconnect operation is initiated for the device, wherein the pin moves along the elongated portion until the pin disengages from the C-shaped plate and is no longer within the opening of the C-shaped plate. The method may further include retaining the pin within the opening of the C-shaped plate with the pin maintaining contact with the elongated portion or hook portion of the C-shaped plate when an unexpected disconnect event occurs and the device is in the closed position.

[0015] Other embodiments, systems, methods, apparatus, aspects, and features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale. The use of the same reference numerals in different figures indicates similar or identical items.

[0017] Figure 1 Depicted is a side perspective view of an example seismic hook according to an example embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 Depicted is an inward-facing perspective view of an example jaw assembly conductor according to an example embodiment.

[0019] Figure 3 Depicted is a cutaway side perspective view of an example jaw assembly conductor according to an example embodiment.

[0020] Figure 4 Depicted is a forward-facing perspective view of an example jaw assembly conductor according to an example embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 Depicted is a top cross-sectional perspective view of an example jaw assembly conductor according to an example embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6A Depicted is a side perspective view of an example seismic hook according to an example embodiment.

[0023] Figure 6B Depicted is a side perspective view of another example seismic hook according to an example embodiment.

[0024] Figure 7 Depicted is an oblique perspective view of an example seismic hook according to an example embodiment.

[0025] Figure 8 Depicted is a front perspective view of an example seismic hook according to an example embodiment.

[0026] Figure 9 A to Figure 9 E depicts a side perspective view of a circuit disconnect device according to an example embodiment.

[0027] Figure 10 A to Figure 10 E depicts another side perspective view of a circuit disconnect device according to an example embodiment.

[0028] Figure 11 Depicted is a side perspective view of an alternative circuit disconnect device according to an example embodiment.

[0029] Certain embodiments will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various embodiments and / or aspects are shown. However, the various aspects can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The same numbers represent the same elements throughout. The following detailed description includes reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The accompanying drawings depict diagrams according to example embodiments. These example embodiments, also referred to herein as "examples," are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present subject matter. The example embodiments may be combined, other embodiments may be utilized, or structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed subject matter. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be taken in a restrictive sense, and the scope is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Illustrative embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. The present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements.

[0031] The embodiments illustrated herein relate, in particular, to systems and methods for providing inertia shorting and earthquake hooks. Certain embodiments relate to inertia shorting and earthquake hooks for circuit breakers for electrical equipment. Certain embodiments relate to hook devices for circuit breakers used in low-voltage and / or high-voltage electrical equipment. Technical effects of certain embodiments of the present disclosure may include providing a switchgear that can be disconnected when an expected disconnection event occurs and that can maintain electrical connection when an unexpected disconnection event occurs. Further technical effects of certain embodiments of the present disclosure may allow certain low-voltage and / or high-voltage electrical equipment to withstand certain seismic stresses and continue to operate without interruption during and / or after a seismic event, an unexpected disconnection event, or an unintended disconnection event or a short circuit. Certain technical effects of certain embodiments of the present disclosure may also provide increased reliability in operating low-voltage and / or high-voltage electrical equipment during and / or after a seismic event, an unexpected disconnection event, an unintended disconnection event, or a short circuit.

[0032] Figure 1 A side perspective view of an example retaining device, such as a C-shaped plate, comprising an L-shaped body with a lip, according to an example embodiment is depicted. The retaining device can be a seismic hook 100 and can be a C-shaped plate mounted to a pivot rod 105 via a pin 103. The seismic hook 100 can rotate about an axis relative to the pivot rod 105. The seismic hook 100 can have an elongated portion 101 connected to a hook portion 109 with an opening between the elongated portion and the hook portion. There can be one or more washers 107 that mount the pivot rod in a fixed position associated with a conductor that is a guide for a jaw member of an electrical circuit.

[0033] Figure 2 An inward-facing perspective view of an example jaw member conductor is depicted according to an example embodiment. The jaw member conductor may have a stop device connected thereto. The stop device may be a seismic hook 201 that may be connected to a pivot rod 207. Conductors 203 and 205 may be guides for the jaw member of the circuit. A catch device such as a movable blade plate (not shown) along with a pin may have two conductors, one on each side, and may be moved into the open area between conductor 203 and conductor 205, thereby closing the circuit between the jaw member of the circuit and the pivot member of the circuit.

[0034] Figure 3A cross-sectional side perspective view of an example jaw member conductor according to an example embodiment is depicted. Jaw member conductor 300 may include conductor 301 and conductor 309. Conductors 301 and 309 may serve as guides for the jaw member of an electrical circuit. Jaw member conductor 300 may include a first contact comprising contact members 303, 305, and 307. Contact members 305 and 307 may be responsible for completing an electrical circuit between a device connected to the jaw member of the electrical circuit and a pivot member of the electrical circuit. When a conductor on a capture device contacts conductors 301 and 309, current may flow through contact members 307 and 305 through contact member 303, thereby completing an electrical circuit between the device connected to the jaw member of the electrical circuit and the pivot member of the electrical circuit. The capture device may include a movable blade plate and a pin. Jaw member conductor 300 may include guides 331 and 333. Guides 331 and 333 may guide the movable blade plate to conductors 301 and 309.

[0035] In some embodiments, certain portions of the jaw member conductors may include non-conductive portions that still serve as guides for the jaw member of the circuit. That is, when the capture device contacts certain non-conductive portions of the jaw member conductors 300, the capture device does not complete the circuit until the capture device contacts a conductive portion of the jaw member conductors 300.

[0036] Figure 4 A front-facing perspective view of an example jaw assembly conductor is depicted according to an example embodiment. Jaw assembly conductor 400 may include conductor 401, conductor 403, and a retaining device such as seismic hook 402. Conductor 401 and conductor 403 are front views of conductors 203 and 205, and conductors 309 and 301, respectively.

[0037] Figure 5 A top cross-sectional perspective view of an example jaw assembly conductor is depicted according to an example embodiment. Jaw assembly conductor 500 may include one or more conductors 503. Although not shown, conductor 503 may correspond to the top perspective views of conductors 203 and 205, 309 and 301, and 401 and 403.

[0038] Figure 6A A side perspective view of an example stop device according to an example embodiment is depicted, the stop device comprising a seismic hook portion of a C-shaped plate comprising an L-shaped body with a lip. The stop device may be a seismic hook 600, which may be machined to have a Figure 6A. The earthquake hook 600 can be a C-shaped plate that rotates about an axis 604 relative to a pivot rod (e.g., pivot rod 105). The earthquake hook 600 can be machined to have a suitable shape to control the response to an unexpected or expected disconnection event (such as a disconnection between the jaw member of the circuit and the pivot member of the circuit). The capture device described above includes a pin that moves along an inner portion of the earthquake hook 600 during a connection operation (closing of the circuit between the jaw member of the circuit and the pivot member of the circuit) or an expected and / or unexpected disconnection operation (opening of the circuit between the jaw member of the circuit and the pivot member of the circuit). The capture device can freely move from a first position to a second position along a predetermined first path at a movement speed lower than a limit speed. The capture device can move along a predetermined second path at a movement speed higher than the limit speed. When the capture device moves along the predetermined second path, the capture device engages a stop device (not shown), thereby preventing the circuit disconnect device from disconnecting.

[0039] The pin or first mass can be guided by a guiding force along a predetermined first path including a curved path, and when the inertial force of the capture device moving along the curved path exceeds the guiding force, the capture device deviates from the curved path and follows a predetermined second path. The guiding force can be gravity, a controlled force, a controlled and expected force, and / or a spring force. The inertial force can include an earthquake event, an unexpected disconnection event, or an unintended disconnection event. The spring force can be generated by a spring, a retractable roller with a spring, or a cable or wire in combination with a spring and / or a retractable roller with a spring.

[0040] Prior to the disconnection operation, the pin can be positioned in any of the positions 605 along the interior of the elongated member 601 and can traverse the interior of the elongated member 601 toward the bend 603 when the disconnection operation begins. In one embodiment, referred to as a slow or normal disconnection operation, the pin can travel at a speed such that it traverses the entire interior of the elongated member 601. As the pin travels from any of the positions 605 toward the end of the elongated member 601, the pin can traverse the bend 603 as it travels from any of the positions 605 to the end of the elongated member 601. In another embodiment, referred to as a quick or unexpected disconnection, the pin can travel at a faster speed than the pin can travel during a normal disconnection operation. As a result, as the pin travels away from any of the positions 605, it can traverse the bend 603 and move across the opening 607, striking the L-shaped body 602. This can prevent or otherwise inhibit the conductor on the capture device from disconnecting from the conductor that is the guide in the jaw member of the circuit in the event of an unexpected disconnection event (such as a seismic event, an accidental disconnection event, an unintended disconnection event, or a short circuit). The bend 603 can be machined in such a manner that the concave curvature changes the trajectory of the pin during high speeds and prevents or otherwise inhibits the pin from exiting through the L-shaped body 602 (the retaining member of the hook).

[0041] It should be noted that the earthquake hook 600 may not rotate 360 ​​degrees. Once the disconnect operation is started and then ended, the earthquake hook 600 should return to its initial position (e.g., Figure 6A In some embodiments, to prevent a full 360-degree rotation of the earthquake hook 600, the hook 600 may have a backing 606 that may contact a ledge just above the pivot rod of the jaw member of the circuit.

[0042] Figure 6B A side perspective view of another example stop device according to an example embodiment is depicted, the stop device including a seismic hook portion of a C-shaped plate including an L-shaped body with a lip. The stop device may be a seismic hook 620, which may be machined to have Figure 6B . The seismic hook 620 can be a C-shaped plate that rotates about axis 614 relative to a pivot rod (e.g., pivot rod 105). The seismic hook 620 can be machined to have such a shape to appropriately control the response to an unexpected or expected disconnection event (such as a disconnection between the jaw member of the circuit and the pivot member of the circuit). The capture device described above includes a pin that moves along an inner portion of the seismic hook 620 during a connection operation (closing of the circuit between the jaw member of the circuit and the pivot member of the circuit) or a disconnection operation (opening of the circuit between the jaw member of the circuit and the pivot member of the circuit).

[0043] Prior to the disconnection operation, the pin can be positioned in any of the positions 615 along the interior of the elongated member 611 and can traverse the interior of the elongated member 611 toward the bend 613 when the disconnection operation begins. In one embodiment, referred to as a slow or normal disconnection operation, the pin can travel at a speed such that it traverses the entire interior of the elongated member 611. As the pin travels from any of the positions 615 toward the end of the elongated member 611, it can traverse the bend 613 as it travels from any of the positions 615 to the end of the elongated member 611. In another embodiment, referred to as a rapid or unexpected disconnection, the pin can travel at a faster speed than the pin can travel during a normal disconnection operation. As a result, as the pin travels away from any of the positions 615, it can traverse the bend 613 and move across the opening 617, striking the L-shaped body 612. This can prevent or otherwise inhibit the conductor on the capture device from disconnecting from the conductor in the jaw member of the circuit in the event of an unexpected or unintended disconnection event, such as a seismic event or a short circuit. The bend 613 may be machined in such a manner that the concave curvature changes the trajectory of the pin during high speeds and prevents or otherwise inhibits the pin from exiting through the L-shaped body 612 (the retaining component of the hook).

[0044] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the seismic hook 620 does not rotate 360 ​​degrees. Once the disconnect operation is initiated and subsequently completed, the seismic hook 620 should return to its initial position (e.g., Figure 6B To prevent a full 360 degree rotation of the earthquake hook 620, the hook 620 may have a backing 616 that may contact a protrusion just above the pivot rod of the jaw member of the circuit.

[0045] The difference between earthquake hook 600 and earthquake hook 620 can be the size of the various earthquake hooks. Elongated member 611 is wider than elongated member 601, making earthquake hook 620 wider across its entire width and heavier because more material is used in machining earthquake hook 620. By varying the weight, the behavior of the pin when it traverses the interior of elongated member 611 during an impact, seismic event, unexpected disconnection event, unintended disconnection event, or short circuit will differ from the behavior of the pin when it traverses the interior of elongated member 601. For example, due to the downward force applied by the additional weight provided by the wider elongated member 611, the pin may traverse the interior of elongated member 611 at a slower speed than the speed at which the pin traverses the interior of elongated member 601. In some embodiments, the hook can be machined to be effective against specific harmful frequencies that may cause a disconnection between a conductor in the jaw member that serves as a guide for an electrical circuit and a conductor on the movable blade portion.

[0046] Figure 7 An oblique perspective view of an example stop device according to an example embodiment is depicted, the stop device comprising a seismic hook portion of a C-shaped plate comprising an L-shaped body with a lip. The stop device may be a seismic hook 700, which may include a backing 705, a pivot hole 704, an elongated member 701, a curved portion 702, and an L-shaped body 703. The curved portion 703 may be machined in such a manner that the concave curvature changes the trajectory of the pin during high speeds and prevents or otherwise inhibits the pin from exiting through the L-shaped body 702 (the retaining member of the hook).

[0047] Figure 8 Depicts a front perspective view of an example stop device according to an example embodiment, the stop device including a seismic hook portion of a C-shaped plate including an L-shaped body with a lip. In some embodiments, the seismic hook can be 3 / 16 inch (4.76 mm) wide.

[0048] Figure 9 A to Figure 9 E depicts a side perspective view of a circuit disconnect device according to an example embodiment. Figure 9 A to Figure 9 E can show a slow or normal disconnection process. Figure 9In A, the circuit disconnect device may be in the initial stage of a slow or normal disconnect operation. The circuit disconnect device may include a capture device, such as a movable blade plate 905 mounted to first conductors 911 and 913 (the pivot member of the circuit), and the first conductors 911 and 913 may contact conductors 907 and 909 of the second conductor circuit (the guide of the jaw member of the circuit). The capture device may include a movable blade plate and a pin. The circuit disconnect device may also include a stop device, such as a seismic hook 901 and a pin 903 mounted to a portion of the movable blade plate. The pin 903 may contact an interior of the seismic hook 901. After the intended disconnect operation is initiated, the movable blade plate 905 may be retracted away from the seismic hook and the pin 903 moved along the slender portion of the seismic hook 901 at a first speed until the pin reaches a bend in the seismic hook, such as Figure 9 As shown in B.

[0049] The catch device is freely movable from a first position to a second position along a predetermined first path at a speed lower than a limit speed. The catch device is movable along a predetermined second path at a speed higher than the limit speed. When the catch device moves along the predetermined second path, the catch device engages a stop device (not shown), thereby preventing the circuit disconnect device from disconnecting.

[0050] The pin or first mass can be guided by a guiding force along a predetermined first path including a curved path, and when the inertial force of the capture device moving along the curved path exceeds the guiding force, the capture device deviates from the curved path and follows a predetermined second path. The guiding force can be gravity, a controlled force, a controlled and expected force, and / or a spring force. The inertial force can include an earthquake event, an unexpected disconnection event, or an unintended disconnection event. The spring force can be generated by a spring, a retractable roller with a spring, or a cable or wire in combination with a spring and / or a retractable roller with a spring.

[0051] Once the pin 903 contacts the curved portion of the seismic hook 901, the pin may traverse the elongated portion of the seismic hook, thereby twisting or slowing down the speed at which the movable blade plate 905 moves. Figure 9 As shown in C, the pin 903 may continue to traverse the interior of the elongated member of the seismic hook 901, as shown in FIG. Figure 9 As shown in D, until the pin is completely disengaged from the seismic hook 901, as shown in FIG. Figure 9 E. At this point, the pin 903 is no longer in contact with the seismic hook 901 and is not in the open portion of the seismic hook between the elongated member of the seismic hook 901 and the L-shaped body having the lip.

[0052] Figure 10 A to Figure 10 E depicts another side perspective view of a circuit disconnect device according to an example embodiment. Figure 10 A to Figure 10 E may indicate a rapid, unintended, or accidental disconnection. Figure 10 In Figure A, the circuit disconnect device may be in the initial stages of an unexpected or unintended disconnect operation. The unexpected or unintended disconnect operation may be caused by seismic activity (such as an earthquake) or a short circuit. The circuit disconnect device may include a capture device, such as a movable blade plate 1002, mounted to first conductors 1007 and 1009 (the pivot member of the circuit), which may contact conductors 1005 and 1011 of the second conductor circuit (the guide member of the jaw member of the circuit). The capture device may include a movable blade plate and a pin. The circuit disconnect device may also include a stop device, such as an earthquake hook 1001 and a pin 1003 mounted to a portion of the movable blade plate. Pin 1003 may contact an interior portion of earthquake hook 1001. After the intended disconnect operation begins, movable blade plate 1002 may be retracted away from the earthquake hook, and pin 1003 may be moved along the elongated portion of earthquake hook 1001 at a speed greater than the speed at which movable blade plate 1002 would move after a normal disconnect operation. The movable plate may continue to traverse the elongated member of the seismic hook 1001 until the pin reaches a bend in the seismic hook, such as Figure 10 As shown in B.

[0053] The catch device is freely movable from a first position to a second position along a predetermined first path at a speed lower than a limit speed. The catch device is movable along a predetermined second path at a speed higher than the limit speed. When the catch device moves along the predetermined second path, the catch device engages a stop device (not shown), thereby preventing the circuit disconnect device from disconnecting.

[0054] The pin or first mass can be guided by a guiding force along a predetermined first path including a curved path, and when the inertial force of the capture device moving along the curved path exceeds the guiding force, the capture device deviates from the curved path and follows a predetermined second path. The guiding force can be gravity, a controlled force, a controlled and expected force, and / or a spring force. The inertial force can include an earthquake event, an unexpected disconnection event, or an unintended disconnection event. The spring force can be generated by a spring, a retractable roller with a spring, or a cable or wire in combination with a spring and / or a retractable roller with a spring.

[0055] Once the pin 1003 contacts the curved portion of the seismic hook 1001, the pin can be traversed through the elongated portion of the seismic hook until the pin reaches a point anywhere on the curved portion, after which the pin can be passed through the opening of the seismic hook, such as Figure 10 and falls on the L-shaped body of the seismic hook 1001, as shown in Figure 10As shown in D. Because the speed at which the pin 1003 travels is coupled with the moment of inertia of the earthquake hook 1001 and the bending of the earthquake hook 1001, the pin 1003 may not traverse the interior of the slender member of the earthquake hook 1001, but instead completely disengage the earthquake hook 1001 and land at a position within the lip at the end portion of the L-shaped body. This is done to ensure that there is no sudden change in the current between the conductors 1007 and 1009 and the conductors 1005 and 1011 to prevent or otherwise minimize the chance of arcing. This may be particularly important when there is a seismic event, an unexpected disconnection event, an unintended disconnection event, or a short circuit that may cause the movable blade plate 1002 to become completely disconnected from the jaws of the circuit. After the pin 1003 passes through the opening of the earthquake hook 1001 and lands on the L-shaped body, the pin 1003 may stop moving after the pin contacts the lip of the L-shaped body, as shown in FIG. Figure 10 As shown in E.

[0056] Figure 11 A side perspective view of another embodiment of a circuit disconnect device according to an example embodiment is depicted. In some embodiments, a circuit disconnect device may include a capture device, such as a movable blade plate 1107 mounted to a first conductor 1102 of a circuit, wherein the movable blade plate 1107 includes an outer surface, and a connecting device includes a mounting member 1103, a stop member such as a hook 1121, and a ridge 1105 mounted to a second conductor of the circuit. The capture device may include a movable blade plate and a pin. The device may also include a raised stop member 1108 on a surface of the movable blade plate 1107. The device may also include a mechanism operable to provide contact between the movable blade plate 1107 and the connecting device. When a disconnect operation is initiated, the movable blade plate 1107 may be retracted away from the mounting member 1103, wherein the connecting device allows the movable blade plate 1107 to be retracted in a controlled manner away from the mounting member 1103 when the hook 1121 engages one or more raised stops in the stop member 1108. One or more of the ridges 1105 may be engaged by a raised head (or nob) 1104. This embodiment may prevent the conductor 1102 from becoming detached from the conductor 1101 in the event of an accidental disconnection event.

[0057] The catch device is freely movable from a first position to a second position along a predetermined first path at a speed less than a limit speed. The catch device is movable along a predetermined second path at a speed greater than the limit speed. When the catch device moves along the predetermined second path, the catch device engages a stop device, thereby preventing the circuit disconnect device from disconnecting.

[0058] In some embodiments, a circuit disconnect device may include a catch device, such as a movable blade plate 1115 mounted to a first conductor 1102 of the circuit, wherein the catch device includes an outer surface, a connection device (e.g., a centrifugal roller lock 1111) mounted to a second conductor of the circuit, and a mechanism (e.g., a belt or chain 1112) operable to provide contact between the movable blade plate 1115 and the connection device when the device is in a closed position. The catch device may include a movable blade plate and a pin. When a disconnect operation is initiated for the device, the movable blade plate 1115 may be retracted away from the connection device, wherein the mechanism allows the movable blade plate 1115 to be retracted away from the connection device until contact between the movable blade plate 1115 and the connection device is lost. When an unexpected or unintended disconnect event occurs and the device is in the closed position, the mechanism may prevent the movable blade plate 1115 from retracting away from the connection device and may maintain contact between the movable blade plate 1115 and the connection device.

[0059] The catch device is freely movable from a first position to a second position along a predetermined first path at a speed less than a limit speed. The catch device is movable along a predetermined second path at a speed greater than the limit speed. When the catch device moves along the predetermined second path, the catch device engages a stop device, thereby preventing the circuit disconnect device from disconnecting.

[0060] In some embodiments, the mechanism includes at least one cable (e.g., a belt or chain 1112) and a retractable roller (e.g., a centrifugal roller lock 1111), wherein the at least one cable is connected between the movable blade plate 1115 and the connecting device. When an unexpected or unintended disconnection event occurs and the device is in the closed position, the retractable roller can prevent the at least one cable from extending. If the cable is used in a high voltage application, the at least one cable can be an insulating material and the cable can withstand high dielectric stress. The second conductor of the circuit is a guide member of the jaw member of the circuit.

[0061] This embodiment may prevent conductor 1110 from becoming detached from conductor 1109 in the event of an accidental or unintended disconnection event.

[0062] In one embodiment, a method for providing a circuit disconnect device may be provided. The method may include providing a movable blade plate mounted to a first conductor of the circuit, wherein the movable blade plate includes a pin mounted to a portion of the movable blade plate. The method may also include providing a pivot rod mounted in a fixed position relative to a second conductor of the circuit. The method may also include providing a C-shaped plate mounted to the fixed pivot rod, wherein the C-shaped plate rotates about an axis relative to the pivot rod, the C-shaped plate having an elongated portion connected to a hook portion, and an opening between the elongated portion and the hook portion. The method may also include: when the device is in a closed position, moving the movable blade plate adjacent to the C-shaped plate, wherein the pin moves within the opening of the C-shaped plate and contacts the C-shaped plate. The method may also include: when a disconnect operation is initiated for the device, retracting the movable blade plate away from the C-shaped plate, wherein the pin moves along the elongated portion until the pin disengages from the C-shaped plate and is no longer within the opening of the C-shaped plate. The method may further include retaining the movable pin within the opening of the C-shaped plate and maintaining contact with the elongated portion or hook portion of the C-shaped plate when an unexpected disconnect event occurs and the device is initially in the closed position.

[0063] In at least one embodiment, the hook portion can include an L-shaped body with a lip at an end portion of the L-shaped body, wherein the pin maintains contact with the lip of the C-shaped plate as the pin moves along the L-shaped body and engages the lip.

[0064] In at least one embodiment, the elongated portion may include an outward protrusion at an end portion of the hook portion, wherein during the disconnection operation, the pin moves along the elongated portion and along the outward protrusion until the pin is no longer in contact with the elongated portion of the C-shaped plate.

[0065] In at least one embodiment, when the device is closed, the pin of the movable blade plate engages the C-shaped plate and the C-shaped plate rotates about the axis relative to the pivot rod when the pin contacts the elongated portion or hook portion of the C-shaped plate.

[0066] In at least one embodiment, when a disconnect operation is initiated for the device, or when an unexpected disconnect event occurs and the device is in a closed position, the C-plate rotates about the axis relative to the pivot rod when the pin contacts the elongated portion or hook portion of the C-plate.

[0067] In at least one embodiment, when a disconnect operation is initiated for the device and the device is in the closed position, the C-shaped plate rotates about the axis relative to the pivot rod as the pin contacts the slender portion or the hook portion of the hook portion until it reaches the bend in the slender portion and then moves across the opening to the hook portion of the C-shaped plate.

[0068] In at least one embodiment, the disconnect operation begins when the speed of the movable blade exceeds a predetermined speed.

[0069] In at least one embodiment, the pin maintains contact with the lip of the C-shaped plate as the pin moves along the L-shaped body and engages the lip.

[0070] In at least one embodiment, the disconnect operation begins when the movable blade plate exceeds a predetermined speed.

[0071] In one embodiment, a method for using a circuit disconnect device may be provided. The method may include manipulating a movable blade plate mounted to a first conductor of a circuit, wherein the movable blade plate includes a pin mounted to a portion of the movable blade plate toward a pivot rod mounted in a fixed position relative to a second conductor of the circuit, wherein a C-shaped plate is mounted to the pivot rod. The method may include rotating the C-shaped plate about an axis relative to the pivot rod as the movable blade plate moves toward the pivot rod, the C-shaped plate including an elongated portion connected to a hook portion, with an opening between the elongated portion and the hook portion. The method may also include maintaining contact between the movable blade plate and the C-shaped plate when the device is in a closed position, wherein the pin moves within the opening of the C-shaped plate and contacts the C-shaped plate. The method may also include retracting the movable blade plate away from the C-shaped plate when a desired disconnect operation for the device is initiated, wherein the pin moves along the elongated portion until the pin disengages from the C-shaped plate and is no longer within the opening of the C-shaped plate. The method may further include retaining the pin within the opening of the C-shaped plate with the pin maintaining contact with the elongated portion or hook portion of the C-shaped plate when an unexpected disconnect event occurs and the device is in the closed position.

[0072] In at least one embodiment, the hook portion includes an L-shaped body with a lip at an end portion of the L-shaped body, wherein as the pin moves along the L-shaped body and engages the lip, and the method of use may further include maintaining the pin in contact with the lip of the C-shaped plate, wherein the slender portion includes an outward protrusion at the end portion of the hook portion, wherein, during the disconnection operation, and the method may further include moving the pin along the slender portion and along the outward protrusion until the pin is no longer in contact with the slender portion of the C-shaped plate.

[0073] In at least one embodiment, the method may include: when closing the device, engaging a pin of the movable blade plate through the C-shaped plate, and rotating the C-shaped plate about the axis relative to the pivot rod when the pin contacts the slender portion or hook portion of the C-shaped plate; and wherein, when a disconnect operation is initiated for the device, or when an unexpected disconnect event occurs and the device is in the closed position, rotating the C-shaped plate about the axis relative to the pivot rod when the pin contacts the slender portion or hook portion of the C-shaped plate.

[0074] It should be noted that embodiments of the inertial short circuit and the seismic hook are not limited to high voltage equipment. It is equally applicable to lower voltage equipment in which a switch is required to maintain a connection between two circuits separated by a distance and which are separable under normal operation and as a result of an unintended opening event.

Claims

1. A circuit disconnecting device comprising: a catch device mounted to a first conductor of the circuit, wherein the catch device is connected to the first conductor such that the catch device freely moves from a first position to a second position along a predetermined first path at a movement speed less than a limit speed, and such that the catch device moves along the predetermined second path at a movement speed greater than the limit speed when an unexpected disconnect event occurs and the circuit disconnect device is in the closed position; wherein when moving along the predetermined second path, the catch means engages a stop means, thereby preventing the circuit breaking device from opening; and Wherein, the capture device includes a first mass body guided by a guiding force along the predetermined first path including a curved path, and when the inertial force of the capture device moving along the curved path exceeds the guiding force, the capture device deviates from the curved path and follows the predetermined second path.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The guiding force includes at least one of the following: gravity and spring force.

3. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The catch device includes a movable blade plate and a pin, and the stop device includes a hook portion of a C-shaped plate, the hook portion including an L-shaped body with a lip.

4. A method for using a circuit disconnect device, comprising: manipulating a capture device mounted to a first conductor of an electrical circuit from a first position to a second position along a predetermined first path at a movement speed less than a limit speed, wherein the capture device is connected to the first conductor; manipulating the capture device to move along a predetermined second path at a moving speed higher than the limit speed when an unexpected disconnection event occurs and the circuit disconnecting device is in the closed position; and When moving along the predetermined second path, the circuit breaking device is prevented from opening by engaging the stop means via the catch means.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that The capture device includes a first mass guided by a guiding force along the predetermined first path including a curved path, and the method further includes: When the inertial force of the capture device moving along the curved path exceeds the guiding force, the curved path is deviated, wherein the capture device follows the predetermined second path.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that The guiding force includes at least one of the following: gravity and spring force.

7. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that The catch means comprises a C-shaped plate and a pin, and the stop means comprises a hook portion of the C-shaped plate, the hook portion comprising an L-shaped body with a lip.

8. A circuit disconnecting device comprising: a movable blade plate mounted to a first conductor of the circuit, wherein the movable blade plate includes a pin mounted to a portion of the movable blade plate; a pivot rod mounted in a fixed position relative to a second conductor of the circuit; and a C-shaped plate mounted to the pivot rod, wherein the C-shaped plate rotates about an axis relative to the pivot rod, the C-shaped plate including an elongated portion connected to a hook portion with an opening between the elongated portion and the hook portion; wherein when the apparatus is in the closed position, the movable blade plate moves adjacent to the C-shaped plate, wherein the pin moves within the opening of the C-shaped plate and the pin contacts the C-shaped plate; wherein, when an intended disconnect operation is initiated for the device, the movable blade plate is retracted away from the C-shaped plate, wherein the pin moves along the elongated portion until the pin is out of contact with the C-shaped plate and is no longer within the opening of the C-shaped plate; and wherein when an unexpected disconnection event occurs and the device is in the closed position, the pin is retained within the opening of the C-shaped plate and the pin remains in contact with the elongated portion or hook portion of the C-shaped plate.

9. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that The hook portion includes an L-shaped body with a lip at an end portion of the L-shaped body, wherein the pin maintains contact with the lip of the C-shaped plate as the pin moves along the L-shaped body and engages the lip.

10. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that The elongated portion includes an outward projection at an end portion of the hook portion, wherein during the breaking operation, the pin moves along the elongated portion and along the outward projection until the pin is no longer in contact with the elongated portion of the C-shaped plate.

11. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that When the device is closed, the pin of the movable blade plate engages the C-shaped plate and the C-shaped plate rotates about the axis relative to the pivot rod when the pin contacts the elongated portion or hook portion of the C-shaped plate.

12. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that When the disconnect operation is initiated for the device, or when an unexpected disconnect event occurs and the device is in the closed position, the C-shaped plate rotates about the axis relative to the pivot rod when the pin contacts the elongated portion or hook portion of the C-shaped plate.

13. The device according to claim 9, characterized in that When a disconnect operation is initiated for the device and the device is in the closed position, the C-shaped plate rotates about the axis relative to the pivot rod when the pin contacts the slender portion of the hook until it reaches the bend in the slender portion and then moves across the opening to the hook shape of the C-shaped plate.

14. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that The disconnecting operation starts when the movable blade plate exceeds a predetermined speed.

15. The device according to claim 13, characterized in that The pin maintains contact with the lip of the C-shaped plate as the pin moves along the L-shaped body and engages the lip.

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