Operating mechanism for controlling the grounding switch of a medium voltage switchgear

Abstract

The invention relates to an operating mechanism (1) for a medium voltage earthing switch, comprising an operating disc (10) rotating about a main axis (100) and a connection assembly (11) operatively connecting the operating disc (10) to the earthing switch. The operating mechanism (1) further comprises an operating lever (12) for rotating the operating disc (10) from a first angular position to a second angular position according to a closing movement (W1) and from the second angular position to the first angular position according to an opening movement (W2). According to the invention, the operating mechanism (1) comprises an interlock assembly (15) preventing a re-closing movement of the operating disc (10) when the operating disc (10) starts from the second angular position and reaches a preset angle (a) according to the opening movement.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an electrical switchgear for medium-voltage applications. More particularly, this invention relates to an operating mechanism for controlling a grounding switch configured to be installed in a medium-voltage switchgear. Background Technology

[0002] Electrical switchgear is well-known in power transmission and distribution networks. It typically comprises a metal cabinet, internally divided into several compartments or sections to house various devices and equipment. In many applications, electrical switchgear includes withdrawable switching devices (e.g., circuit breakers), which are reversibly movable between a first position (inserted position) and a second position (withdrawn position), in which the switching device is electrically connected to the disconnecting contacts of the switchgear, and in which the switching device is electrically disconnected from the disconnecting contacts in the second position.

[0003] Electrical switchgear of the above type typically also includes a grounding switch assembly. The grounding switch assembly typically includes a grounding switch, an operating mechanism for controlling the grounding switch, and a mechanical connection (typically a connecting rod) that operably connects the grounding switch to the operating mechanism. The grounding switch includes a mechanism for moving a plurality of movable contacts between a first reference position and a second reference position, characterized by the grounding switch being in an open state and the second reference position being characterized by the grounding switch being in a closed state. In the second reference position, the movable contacts engage fixed contacts, each of which is electrically connected to a wire.

[0004] In some known solutions, the grounding switch assembly includes a shaft on which a movable contact is rigidly mounted. The shaft rotates about a longitudinal axis, thereby enabling the movable contact to rotate accordingly between the reference positions. This rotation is controlled by the operating mechanism described above. The operating mechanism typically includes a rotating disk or shaft operably connected to the main shaft of the grounding switch mechanism, such that rotation of the rotating disk causes rotation of the grounding switch shaft supporting the movable contact. The rotating disk can be rotated via an operating lever to change the state of the grounding switch. For safety reasons, the operating mechanism is positioned sufficiently far from the grounding switch (1000mm to 2000mm) and operably connected to the shaft of the grounding switch mechanism via a connecting device (lever system). The operating lever allows the rotating disk to rotate between a first angular position characterized by the grounding switch being open and a second angular position characterized by the grounding switch being closed.

[0005] Typically, a grounding switch includes a spring mechanism operably connected to a shaft supporting a movable contact. In some known solutions, the spring mechanism is loaded during the first phase of the closing movement, i.e., during the first phase of rotation of the shaft and its mounted movable contact. Once the rotation angle (a few degrees) exceeds a preset value, the spring mechanism releases its elastic energy onto the shaft, thereby immediately and correctly bringing the movable contact to a second reference position, i.e., electrically connecting it to the fixed contact. According to other known solutions, the spring mechanism is loaded during the opening movement of the grounding switch.

[0006] In all cases, the closing operation of the grounding switch comprises a first stage performed by the operator on the operating lever indicated above, and a second stage determined by the energy release of the spring mechanism, which is not controlled by the operator. Therefore, the closing operation depends only partially on the operator. Conversely, the opening of the grounding switch is entirely dependent on the operator's will and strength. This means that during the opening movement, the operator is permitted to stop the opening movement and begin the reclosing movement at virtually any angular position, even if the lever returns to the position corresponding to the closed state of the grounding switch.

[0007] It is understood that this reclosing motion is unsafe. The operator should apply the necessary torque to the control lever on the control panel to restore the proper electrical connection between the moving and stationary contacts of the grounding switch. However, this torque may be insufficient to restore the tolerance chain relative to the components provided by the operating mechanism and the grounding switch mechanism for rotating the moving contact. After a manual reclosing motion, the moving contact may contact, but not fully connect to, the stationary contact. In the event of a short-circuit current, the moving contact may move away from the stationary contact, generating an electric arc with extremely dangerous consequences. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The main objective of this invention is to provide an operating mechanism for controlling a medium-voltage grounding switch, which overcomes or mitigates the problems of the aforementioned known technologies.

[0009] In the context of this objective, the present invention aims to provide an operating mechanism that allows the grounding switch to be closed in a safe manner and to maintain this state to avoid dangerous manipulation.

[0010] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an operating mechanism in which the grounding switch cannot be closed by manual intervention of an operator alone.

[0011] Another objective is to provide an operating mechanism in which the closing motion of the grounding switch always involves the action of a spring device associated with the grounding switch.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an operating mechanism that is readily manufactured at an industrial level and at a competitive cost using similar equipment of the prior art.

[0013] According to the present invention, this objective and these and other objectives are achieved by the related operating mechanisms described below, the other objectives of which will become apparent from the following description and drawings.

[0014] In summary, the operating mechanism according to the invention includes an operating disk that rotates about a main axis between a first angular position and a second angular position, the first angular position and the second angular position corresponding to the open and closed states of a grounding switch, respectively. The operating mechanism further includes: a connecting assembly that operably connects the operating disk to the grounding switch; and an operating lever for rotating the operating disk from the first angular position to the second angular position according to a closing motion and from the second angular position to the first angular position according to an opening motion; the connecting assembly is configured to convert the closing and opening motions of the operating disk into the closing and opening motions of the grounding switch, respectively.

[0015] According to the invention, the operating mechanism includes an interlocking assembly that prevents the operating disc from reclosing when it begins from the second angle position and reaches a predetermined angle according to the opening movement. Advantageously, the interlocking assembly prevents the grounding switch from returning to the closed state unless the opening movement is completed. This means that the closing movement of the grounding switch can always utilize the elastic energy of the spring assembly associated with the opening / closing mechanism mounted on the grounding switch. Therefore, at the end of the closing movement, the movable contact always reaches the correct position to ensure a safe electrical connection with the fixed contact.

[0016] Preferably, the interlocking assembly includes a first sub-assembly integrated with the operating panel and a second sub-assembly interacting with the first sub-assembly, wherein the second sub-assembly is mounted on a fixed frame.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the first sub-assembly includes a first element integrated with the operating panel, while the second sub-assembly includes a first rotating element hinged to the frame. The first rotating element rotates under the action of at least one first spring element. In the locked position, the first rotating element cooperates with the first element of the first sub-assembly to prevent the re-closing movement.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the first sub-assembly includes a second element integrated with the operation panel, wherein, during rotation of the operation panel according to the opening movement, the second element moves a first rotating element from the locked position to the unlocked position, thereby loading the at least one first spring element; the second sub-assembly includes a second rotating element hinged to the frame, the second rotating element being subjected to the action of at least one second spring element. When the first rotating element reaches the unlocked position, the second rotating element locks the first rotating element.

[0019] Preferably, when the operation panel reaches the second angular position, the first rotating element reaches the unlocked position. Preferably, when the operation panel is in the second angular position, the first rotating element of the second sub-assembly abuts against the first element of the first sub-assembly.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first sub-assembly includes a third element integral with the operating disc, which acts on the second rotating element during the closing movement to move the second rotating element from the locked position and allow the first rotating element of the second sub-assembly to rotate freely under the action of the at least one spring element.

[0021] Preferably, the third element is fixed to the operating panel at an angle between the position of the first element and the position of the second element.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the first rotating element and the second rotating element of the second sub-assembly rotate about a first rotating axis and a second rotating axis that are parallel to the main axis, respectively.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment of the frame, the frame includes a pair of sidewalls opposite each other that extend in a plane substantially orthogonal to the main axis; the frame also includes a longitudinal wall that extends parallel to the main axis between the pair of sidewalls in a position away from the disk, such that a second sub-assembly is substantially arranged between the operating disk and the longitudinal wall.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, a first element and / or a third element of the first sub-assembly are rigidly connected to the cylindrical outer peripheral surface of the operation panel. Preferably, a second element of the first sub-assembly is plate-shaped and connected to the main surface of the operation panel.

[0025] According to one possible embodiment of the second sub-assembly, the first rotating element of the second sub-assembly includes a first portion and a fork-shaped second portion; the at least one first spring element is connected between the frame and the first portion; the second portion interacts with the first element of the first sub-assembly to prevent the reclosing movement. The second portion defines a central groove for passage of a third element of the first sub-assembly during the opening movement of the operating disc and when the first rotating element is in the locked position.

[0026] Preferably, the second rotating element of the second sub-assembly includes a front portion facing the operation panel and a rear portion opposite to the front portion; a second spring element is connected to the rear portion and to the wall of the frame. The front portion is provided with a locking pawl protruding toward the first rotating element; a first portion of the first rotating element includes a bottom seat into which the locking pawl inserts when the first rotating element reaches the unlocked position due to the action of the second rotating element of the first sub-assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description of preferred, but not exclusive, embodiments of the operating mechanism according to this disclosure, non-limiting examples of which are provided in the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0028] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the operating mechanism according to the present invention;

[0029] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A front view of the operating mechanism;

[0030] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and 2 A plan view of the operating mechanism;

[0031] Figure 4 It is based on Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of line IV-IV;

[0032] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of the details of V;

[0033] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 and 2 A view of some components of the operating mechanism;

[0034] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A view of a portion of a child component of a part;

[0035] Figure 8 It is based on Figure 7 The cross-sectional view of section line VIII-VIII;

[0036] Figure 9-12 yes Figure 1 and 2 The schematic diagram of the operating mechanism, each representing a stage of the opening movement;

[0037] Figure 13-16 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2The schematic diagram of the operating mechanism shows that each one represents a stage of the closed motion. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Referring to the above figures, the present invention relates to an operating mechanism 1 for controlling a grounding switch that can be used in medium-voltage applications. For the purposes of this invention, the term "medium voltage" (MV) refers to an operating voltage higher than 1 kV up to tens of kV (e.g., 70 kV AC and 100 kV DC).

[0039] Operating mechanism 1 can be used in medium-voltage switchgear and is operatively connected to a grounding switch (not shown) located relatively far from operating mechanism 1 (typically 1 to 2 meters away). Operating mechanism 1 can be used independently of the configuration of the grounding switch mechanism for rotating the movable contact.

[0040] An operating mechanism 1 is disposed in a housing 80, which may be connected to or be part of a switching device. The housing 80 includes a base 81 and two opposing sides 81A, 81B extending orthogonally from the base 81. Most of the components of the operating mechanism 1 are disposed between the sides 81A, 81B. Preferably, the housing 80 also includes a rear wall 82 and a front panel 83 opposite the rear wall 82. According to a possible embodiment, the base 81 and the rear wall 82 may be defined by separate L-shaped metal sheets.

[0041] The operating mechanism 1 includes an operating disk 10 that rotates about a main axis 100. The operating disk 10 is mounted on a shaft 110, which is supported at opposite ends by sides 81A and 81B within a housing 80. Figure 8 As shown, the operation panel 10 includes two main surfaces 10A opposite each other, which extend in a parallel plane orthogonal to the main axis. The operation panel 10 also includes a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 10B extending between the two main surfaces 10A of the operation panel 10.

[0042] The operating panel 10 is configured to take on a first angular position and a second angular position, characterized by the open and closed states of the grounding switch, respectively. The angles are considered relative to the main axis 100. Therefore, movement from the first angular position to the second angular position or from the second angular position to the first angular position corresponds to a predetermined rotation angle β of the operating panel 10.

[0043] exist Figure 6 The diagram shows the operation panel 10 in the second angular position (closed state). Reference axes XX and YY are shown on a plane orthogonal to the main axis 100. Figure 12 The control panel 10 is shown in a first angle position (open state). Preferably, from... Figure 6 and Figure 12 The comparison clearly shows that the predetermined angle β is approximately 90°.

[0044] Operating mechanism 1 includes connecting component 11 (see...) Figure 1 and Figure 3 The connecting assembly is configured to connect the operating panel 10 to a grounding switch (not shown), such that rotation of the operating panel 10 determines a change in the state of the grounding switch. More specifically, according to solutions known per se, the connecting assembly 11 converts rotation of the operating panel 10 into a corresponding rotation of the shaft of the grounding switch mechanism, to which the movable contact is rigidly connected.

[0045] Preferably, the connecting assembly 11 includes two connecting rods 11A and 11B (see...) Figure 1 They are hinged at rod 111 at one end 110A of the shaft 110 that supports the operating panel 10. More specifically, connecting rods 11A and 11B are hinged at points on the rod 111 that are diametrically opposite to the main axis 100.

[0046] The operating mechanism 1 also includes an operating lever 12 for rotating the operating disk 10 between the aforementioned defined angular positions (a first angular position and a second angular position). More precisely, the operating lever 12 allows the operating disk 10 to rotate from the first angular position (see [reference]) according to the closing motion W1. Figure 12 Rotate to the second angular position and from the second angular position according to the opening movement W2 (see...) Figure 9 Rotate to the first angular position. The connecting assembly 11 is configured such that the closing movement W1 and opening movement W2 of the operating panel 10 cause the grounding switch to close and open, respectively. In fact, the operating lever 12 is a device that allows the operator to change the configuration of the grounding switch via the operating panel 10.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment, the front panel 83 includes a slot 83A from which the operating portion 12A of the operating lever 12 protrudes (see [reference]). Figure 4 The fixing part 12B of the operating lever 12 is connected to the operating panel 10 inside the housing 80. The operator can grasp the operating part to rotate the operating panel 10. Referring to the normal installation position, when the operating panel 10 is in the first angle position, the operating lever 12 is oriented downwards (see...). Figure 12 Conversely, when the control panel 10 is in the second angle position, the control lever 12 is oriented upwards (see...). Figure 4 ).

[0048] Preferably, the operating lever 12 can be removably connected to the operating panel 10 via a coupling device configured such that the operating lever 12 can only be disengaged from or connected to the operating panel 10 when the operating panel 10 is in one of the stated angular positions (a first angular position or a second angular position). Therefore, the operating lever 12 can only be removed from the operating panel 10 after the corresponding operation (opening or closing) has been completed, and no part of the operating lever will be removed as before. Figure 1 and Figure 3 It protrudes from the front panel 83 as shown.

[0049] According to the present invention, the operating mechanism 1 includes an interlocking assembly 15 that prevents the operating disk 10 from reclosing when it reaches a predetermined angle α from the second angular position during the opening movement W2. Specifically, the interlocking assembly 15 prevents the operating disk 10 from returning to the second angular position (i.e., the reclosing movement) unless the opening movement is completed. In other words, when the operating disk 10 reaches the predetermined angular position (corresponding to angle α) during the opening movement W2, the interlocking assembly 15 prevents the operating disk 10 from rotating in the direction corresponding to the closing movement W1. The lock on the operating disk 10 is removed only upon completion of the opening movement, i.e., only when the operating disk 10 reaches the first angular position. Therefore, for the operator acting on the lever, the opening movement W2 must be completed to unlock the operating disk 10 and to bring the grounding switch back to the closed state via the subsequent closing movement W1 of the operating disk 10.

[0050] According to the preferred embodiment shown in the figure, the interlocking assembly 15 includes a first sub-assembly 15A integrated with the operation panel 10 and a second sub-assembly 15B separate from the operation panel 10 and interacting with the first sub-assembly 15A. Figure 8 In the diagram, the components (31, 32, 33) of the first sub-assembly 15A are grouped together by dashed lines. More precisely, the first sub-assembly 15A includes multiple elements 31, 32, 33, which are rigidly mounted on the operation panel 10 such that they can rotate together with the operation panel 10 about the main axis 100. The second sub-assembly 15B includes multiple elements 41, 42, 51A, 51B, 52, which are mounted on a fixed frame 5 separate from the operation panel 10.

[0051] According to one possible embodiment shown in the figure, the frame 5 includes a pair of sidewalls 512A, 512B opposite to each other, which extend in a plane substantially orthogonal to the main axis 100 of the operating panel 10. The sidewalls 512A, 512B are preferably mounted on the base 81 of the housing 80.

[0052] Frame 5 also includes a longitudinal wall 513 extending parallel to the main axis 100 and connecting the two side walls 512A and 512B. For example... Figure 8 As clearly shown, the frame 5 is arranged such that the longitudinal wall 513 is located in a position relatively far from the operating panel 10, such that most of the elements of the second sub-assembly 15B are arranged between the longitudinal wall 513 and the operating panel 10 according to a reference direction T orthogonal to the main axis 100.

[0053] According to one possible embodiment, the first sub-assembly 15A includes a first element 31 fixed to the operation disk 10, preferably fixed to the cylindrical outer peripheral surface 10B of the operation disk 10. The second sub-assembly 15B includes a first rotating element 41 hinged to the frame 5 so as to rotate about a first axis 101 under the action of at least one first spring element 51A, 51B (see...). Figure 7 Preferably, the second sub-assembly 15B includes a pair of first spring elements 51A, 51B, each first spring element being connected between the first rotating element 41 and a corresponding sidewall in the sidewalls 512A, 512B.

[0054] In the locked position, the first rotating element 41 of the second sub-assembly 15B cooperates with the first element 31 of the first sub-assembly 15A to prevent the reclosing movement as the operating disk 10 moves from the second angular position (closed state) to the predetermined angle α. Specifically, once the operating disk 10 reaches the predetermined angle α, the first rotating element 41 is pulled to the locked position by the first spring elements 51A, 51B (see...). Figure 10 Because the rotation of the first element 31, which is integrated with the operation panel 10, is hindered by the first rotating element 41, the reclosing motion (based on the rotation of the closing motion W1) is prohibited.

[0055] Preferably, the first rotation axis 101 of the first rotating element 41 of the second sub-assembly 15B is substantially parallel to the main axis 100 around which the operating disk 10 rotates. The first spring elements 51A, 51B apply a force to the first rotating element 41, which tends to rotate the first rotating element and hold it in the locked position.

[0056] Preferably, when the operation panel 10 is in the second angle position (closed state), the first rotating element 41 of the second sub-assembly 15B abuts against the first element 31 of the first sub-assembly 15A (see, for example, see...). Figure 5 , 6 And 16). As a result, the operation panel 10, according to the rotation of the opening movement W2, overcomes the first spring elements 51A, 51B causing the first rotating element 41 to rotate in the opposite direction ( Figure 9 The reverse rotation is indicated by arrow T2 in the diagram. Specifically, this reverse rotation occurs when the operation disk 10 reaches the predetermined angle α.

[0057] According to a preferred embodiment shown in the figure, the first sub-assembly 15A includes a second element 32 integral with the operation panel 10 and angularly spaced from the first element 31. During the opening movement, the second element 32 acts on (against the at least one first spring element 51A, 51B) a first rotating element 41 of the second sub-assembly 15B to rotate the first rotating element from the locked position to the unlocked position (see figure). Figure 12 This unlock position allows for subsequent closing movement (direction W1). Preferably, this is when the operating disk 10 reaches the first angular position, i.e., when the opening movement is complete (see...). Figure 12 The first rotating element 41 reaches the unlocked position.

[0058] Preferably, the second element 32 of the first sub-assembly 15A is a plate connected to one of the main surfaces 10A of the operation disk 10. The plate has a portion 32A that protrudes radially relative to the outer peripheral surface 10B, and this portion 32A interacts with the first rotating element 41.

[0059] The second subassembly 15B includes a second rotating element 42 hinged to the frame 5 and subjected to the action of a second spring element 52. Once the first rotating element 41 reaches the aforementioned unlocked position, the second rotating element 42 locks the first rotating element 41. Therefore, the second rotating element 42 prevents the first rotating element 41 from rotating in the opposite direction toward the locked position during the first phase of the closing movement, which refers to when the second element 32 of the first subassembly 15A moves away from the first rotating element 41.

[0060] Preferably, the second rotating element 42 rotates about a second rotation axis 102, which is substantially parallel to the first axis 101 and the aforementioned main axis 100. A second spring element 52 applies a force to the second rotating element 42, a force that tends to rotate the second rotating element and hold it in its first operating position locking the first rotating element 41. Therefore, when the second rotating element 42 locks the first rotating element 41, the second spring element 52 is partially released. The second spring element 52 retains a portion of its elastic energy to ensure proper engagement of the second rotating element 42 with the first rotating element 41, as better described below.

[0061] Preferably, the second spring element 52 is arranged such that the second rotating element 42 rotates in a direction opposite to the direction around which the first rotating element 41 tends to rotate under the action of at least one first spring element 51A, 51B.

[0062] Preferably, the second rotating element 42 contacts the first rotating element 41, such that the locking position of the first rotating element 41 also depends on the action of the second spring element 52. Preferably, the frame 5 is provided with a fixing element 59, and the first rotating element 41 abuts against the fixing element due to the combined action of the first spring elements 51A, 51B and the second spring element 52. In general, the first spring elements 51A, 51B, the second spring element 52 and the fixing element 59 establish the locking position of the first rotating element 41 of the second subassembly 15B (see...). Figure 10 ).

[0063] According to a preferred embodiment, the first sub-assembly 15A includes a third element 33 integral with the operation panel 10, which is preferably connected to the operation panel at a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 10B. During the closing movement (see...), Figure 14 and 15 The third element 33 acts on the second rotating element 42 of the second subassembly 15B to move the second rotating element from its working position and allow the first rotating element 41 to rotate freely about the first axis 101 under the action of the first spring elements 51A, 51B. Specifically, the third element 33 is fixed to the operating disk 10 in a position angularly between the position of the first element 31 and the position of the second element 32. Therefore, during the closing motion and after the first rotating element 41 is unlocked due to the action of the third element 33, the first element 31 reaches its reference position (see [reference]) before the first rotating element 41 reaches its locked position. Figure 15 and 16 ).

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment shown in the figure, the first rotating element 41 includes a first portion 41A and a fork-shaped second portion 41B (see figure). Figure 7 The two parts 41A and 41B are essentially opposite each other about the first axis 101. This means that they are mounted horizontally relative to the frame 5 (see...). Figure 7 The first part 41A and the second part 41B extend above and above the first axis 101, respectively. The first spring element 51A is connected between the first end 410A of the first part 41A and the first sidewall 512A of the frame 5, while the second spring element 51B is connected between the second end 410B of the first part 41A and the second sidewall 512B of the frame 5 (see again). Figure 7 The forked second portion 41B interacts with the first element 31 of the first sub-assembly 15A to prevent the reclosing movement as described above. At the end of the opening movement, the second rotating element 42 locks the first rotating element 41 acting on the first portion 41A.

[0065] Part 41B defines a central slot 44 for passage of the third element 33 during the opening movement of the operating panel. More precisely, this is when the first rotating element 41 is in its locked position (see...). Figure 10 The central groove 44 allows the third element 33 to pass through. Therefore, the shape and size of the central groove 44 are defined as a function of the shape and size of the third element 33 connected to the outer peripheral surface 10B of the operation disk 10.

[0066] The second rotating element 42 is mounted on a shaft 43 supported by the side walls 512A, 512B of the frame 5 to define the second axis 102. The second rotating element 42 includes a front portion 42A and a rear portion 42B. These portions 42A, 42B are substantially opposite each other about the second axis 102. During the closing motion, the front portion 42A is contacted by the third element 33 of the first sub-assembly 15A, while the rear portion 42B is acted upon by the second spring element 52. Preferably, the longitudinal wall 513 of the frame 5 includes a groove 513A (see...). Figure 7 The end 420B of the rear portion 42B protrudes from the slot 513A (see...). Figure 5 The fixing element 49 is mounted on the outer wall 513B of the longitudinal wall 513 near the bottom portion 513C of the longitudinal wall 513. The second spring element 52 is connected between the end 420B of the rear portion 42B and the fixing element 49.

[0067] Refer again Figure 7 and Figure 8 The front portion 42A of the second rotating element 42 is provided with a locking pawl 47 that protrudes upward, i.e., toward the first rotating element 41. The first portion 41A of the first rotating element 41 includes a base 48, into which the locking pawl 47 inserts when the first rotating element 41 reaches the unlocked position under the action of the second element 32 of the first sub-assembly 15A. In particular, the engagement of the locking pawl 47 with the base 48 and the action of the second spring element 52 combine to effectively hold the first rotating element in the unlocked position until the third element 33 of the first sub-assembly 15A intervenes.

[0068] Reference Figure 8-16 The working principle of operating mechanism 1 will be explained below. Figure 9The operating mechanism 1 is shown in a configuration corresponding to the closed state of the grounding switch. The operating panel 10 is in a second angular position, thus the first element 31 of the first subassembly 15A is in its reference position. Under the action of the first spring elements 51A and 51B, the first rotating element 41 of the second subassembly 15B abuts against the first element 31 of the first subassembly 15A. The second rotating element 42 is kept separate from the first rotating element 41 by the third element 33 of the first subassembly 15A. Specifically, the third element 33 keeps the second rotating element 42 rotating relative to its operating position by loading the second spring element 52.

[0069] for Figure 9 The device shown, the opening movement W2 is a result of the operation disk 10 rotating counterclockwise about the main axis 100. This rotation is performed by the operation lever 12. When the opening movement W2 begins, the first element 31 rotates together with the operation disk 10, causing the first rotating element 41 to rotate counterclockwise (indicated by arrow T2). Once the operation disk 10 has rotated the predetermined angle α, the contact between the first element 31 and the first rotating element 41 disappears. Therefore, due to the action of the first spring elements 51A and 51B, the first rotating element 41 rotates counterclockwise (indicated by arrow T3) until it reaches the locked position (see [link]). Figure 10 As described above, preferably, the locking position depends not only on the first spring elements 51A and 51B, but also on the second spring element 52 acting on the second rotating element 42 in contact with the first rotating element 41, and on the reference element 59, which is preferably fixed to the rear wall 82 of the frame 5. Figure 10 As shown, in the locked position, the first rotating element 41 abuts against the reference element 59.

[0070] In this state (locked position), the first rotating element 41 prevents the operating disk 10 from returning to the second angular position. Therefore, any reclosing movement (direction W1) is prevented from being performed by the operator. The only possibility of restoring the closed state is to counteract the opening movement, i.e., to rotate the operating disk 10 until it reaches the first angular position.

[0071] To complete the opening motion, the operator must continue to push the operating lever 12 downwards. This causes the operating panel 10 to rotate (in the direction W2), and consequently causes elements 31, 32, and 33 of the first sub-assembly 15A to rotate. Figure 11As shown, when the operating panel 10 approaches the first angular position (open state), the second element 32 of the first sub-assembly 15A acts on the first rotating element 41, causing the first rotating element to rotate clockwise (direction T2) about the first axis 101 and loading the pair of first spring elements 51A and 51B. Simultaneously, the second rotating element 42 is also dragged into a clockwise rotation (direction L2) determined by the second spring element 52. Specifically, the second rotating element 42 rotates to contact the first rotating element 41, particularly its first portion 41A.

[0072] Figure 12 The diagram shows the operating mechanism 1 when the operating panel 10 reaches the first angular position (i.e., the grounding switch is in the open state). Relative to... Figure 9 In the initial state shown, the operating disk 10 has rotated approximately 90° by an angle β. Figure 12 In the open state, the action of the second element 32 of the first subassembly 15A ends, and the first rotating element 41 is in its unlocked position. Simultaneously, the second rotating element 42 is in its working position, in which its locking claw 47 is inserted into the base 48, effectively locking the first rotating element 41. Due to the action of the second rotating element 42, even during the subsequent closing motion, contact with the second element 32 of the first subassembly 15A disappears (see...). Figure 13 The first rotating element 41 remains in the unlocked position.

[0073] in this regard, Figure 13-16 This involves a closing motion, that is, the operating disk 10 moves from the first angular position ( Figure 12 ) to the second angle position ( Figure 16 The rotation of ). For example Figure 13 As shown, the closing motion is achieved by the upward movement of the operating lever 12, which causes the operating disk 10 to rotate clockwise (direction W1) about the main axis 100. Due to this rotation, the second element 32 of the first sub-assembly 15A moves away from the first rotating element 41 locked by the second rotating element 42 (see...). Figure 13 and 14 Simultaneously, the third element 33 of the first sub-assembly 15A approaches the front portion 42A of the second rotating element 42 (see...). Figure 14 During this rotation, the second element 32 will not interfere with the second rotating element 42 because it is mounted on the main surface 10A of the operating disk 10.

[0074] Figure 15The operating mechanism 1 is shown at the instant that the third element 33 of the first subassembly 15A begins to act on the second rotating element 42, causing the second rotating element to rotate counterclockwise (indicated by L3). As shown, at this instant, the first element 31 has reached a position where the first rotating element 41 cannot reach the locked position. The action of the third element 33 releases the locking pawl 47 of the second rotating element 42 from the bottom seat 48 of the first rotating element 41, thereby allowing the first rotating element 41 to rotate freely counterclockwise under the action of the first spring elements 51A, 51B (arrow T3). As described above, the first rotating element 41 cannot reach the locked position, and the first rotating element abuts against the first element 31 of the first subassembly 15A. In this respect, Figure 16 This shows the state reached at the end of the closing motion, which corresponds exactly to... Figure 9 The state shown. Figure 9-16 It is a series of views showing the action of the operating mechanism 1 during the opening movement and the subsequent closing movement.

[0075] The operating mechanism according to the invention can be easily implemented at an industrial level. Therefore, the operating mechanism can be easily manufactured at a competitive cost using similar equipment from the prior art.

Claims

1. An operating mechanism (1) for a medium-voltage grounding switch, comprising: - Operation panel (10), the operation panel rotates around the main axis (100) between a first angular position and a second angular position, the first angular position and the second angular position respectively corresponding to the open state and the closed state of the grounding switch; - Connection component (11), which operably connects the operation panel (10) to the grounding switch; - Operating lever (12), the operating lever is used to rotate the operating disk (10) from the first angular position to the second angular position according to the closing movement (W1) and to rotate the operating disk from the second angular position to the first angular position according to the opening movement (W2), wherein the connecting assembly (11) converts the closing movement (W1) and the opening movement (W2) of the operating disk (10) into the closing movement and the opening movement of the grounding switch, respectively. The operating mechanism (1) is characterized in that it includes an interlocking component (15) that prevents the operating disk (10) from reclosing before it reaches the first angle position, when the operating disk (10) starts from the second angle position and reaches a preset angle (α) according to the opening movement (W2). The interlocking assembly (15) includes a first sub-assembly (15A) integrated with the operation panel (10) and a second sub-assembly (15B) interacting with the first sub-assembly (15A). The second sub-assembly (15B) is mounted on the fixed frame (5). The first subassembly (15A) includes a first element (31) integral with the operating panel (10), and the second subassembly (15B) includes a first rotating element (41) hinged to the fixed frame (5). The first rotating element rotates under the action of at least one first spring element (51A, 51B), wherein in the locked position, the first rotating element (41) cooperates with the first element (31) of the first subassembly (15A) to prevent the re-closing movement. The first sub-assembly (15A) includes a second element (32) integral with the operation disk (10), wherein, during the rotation of the operation disk (10) according to the opening movement (W2), the second element (32) causes the first rotating element (41) to move from the locked position to the unlocked position, thereby loading the at least one first spring element (51A, 51B), and wherein the second sub-assembly (15B) includes a second rotating element (42) hinged to the fixed frame (5), the second rotating element being subjected to the action of at least one second spring element (52), the second rotating element (42) locking the first rotating element (41) when the first rotating element (41) reaches the unlocked position.

2. The operating mechanism (1) according to claim 1, wherein, When the operation disk (10) reaches the second angle position, the first rotating element (41) reaches the unlock position.

3. The operating mechanism (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first subassembly (15A) includes a third element (33) integrated with the operation disk (10), which acts on the second rotating element (42) during the closing movement to move the second rotating element from the locked position and allow the first rotating element (41) of the second subassembly (15B) to rotate freely under the action of at least one first spring element (51A, 51B).

4. The operating mechanism (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The third element (33) is fixed to the operation panel (10) at an angle between the position of the first element (31) and the position of the second element (32).

5. The operating mechanism (1) according to claim 4, wherein, The first rotating element (41) and the second rotating element (42) of the second sub-assembly (15B) rotate about a first rotating axis (101) and a second rotating axis (102) that are parallel to the main axis (100), respectively.

6. The operating mechanism (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, When the operation disk (10) is in the second angle position, the first rotating element (41) of the second sub-assembly (15B) abuts against the first element (31) of the first sub-assembly (15A).

7. The operating mechanism (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The fixed frame (5) includes a pair of sidewalls (512A, 512B) that are opposite each other and extend in a plane substantially orthogonal to the main axis (100), wherein the fixed frame (5) also includes a longitudinal wall (513) that extends parallel to the main axis (100) between the pair of sidewalls (512A, 512B) at a position away from the operating disk (10), such that the second sub-assembly (15B) is substantially arranged between the operating disk (10) and the longitudinal wall (513).

8. The operating mechanism (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The first element (31) and / or the third element (33) of the first sub-assembly (15A) are rigidly connected to the cylindrical outer peripheral surface (10B) of the operation disk (10).

9. The operating mechanism (1) according to claim 2, wherein, The second element (32) of the first sub-assembly (15A) is plate-shaped and connected to the main surface (10A) of the operation panel (10).

10. The operating mechanism (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The first rotating element (41) of the second subassembly (15B) includes a first portion (41A) and a second portion (41B), the second portion being fork-shaped, wherein at least one first spring element (51A, 51B) is connected between the fixed frame (5) and the first portion (41A), and wherein the second portion (41B) interacts with the first element (31) of the first subassembly (15A) to prevent the reclosing movement, the second portion (41B) defining a central slot (44) through which the third element (33) passes during the opening movement of the operating disk (10) and when the first rotating element (41) is in the locked position.

11. The operating mechanism (1) according to claim 10, wherein, The second rotating element (42) includes a front portion (42A) facing the operation disk (10) and a rear portion (42B) opposite to the front portion (42A), wherein the second spring element (52) is connected to the rear portion (42B) and the wall of the fixed frame (5), wherein the front portion (42A) is provided with a locking claw (47) protruding toward the first rotating element (41), and wherein the first portion (41A) of the first rotating element (41) includes a bottom seat (48), wherein the locking claw (47) is inserted into the bottom seat when the first rotating element (41) reaches the unlocked position due to the action of the second element (32) of the first sub-assembly (15A).

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