High current compact fusible disconnect switch with dual slide assembly and handle biasing element

Abstract

A fusible disconnect switch device is provided. The disconnect switch includes a switch actuator, a handle biasing element, and a slider assembly. The switch actuator is selectively positionable between an open position and a closed position. The handle biasing element includes a first end that acts on the switch actuator and a second end that is coupled to a switch housing. A slider assembly is connected to the switch actuator. The slider assembly includes a first slider and a second slider that are each slidable along a linear axis relative to the switch housing. The first slider is capable of independent movement relative to the second slider. The handle biasing element and the slider assembly are responsive to the position of the switch actuator to effectuate switch closing and opening operations.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to fusible circuit protection devices and, more particularly, to fusible disconnect switch devices for use in high current industrial applications. Background Art

[0002] Fuses are widely used as overcurrent protection devices to prevent costly damage to electrical circuits. Fuse terminals typically form an electrical connection between a power source and an electrical component or combination of components arranged in the circuit. One or more fusible links or elements, or fuse element assemblies, are connected between the fuse terminals. When the current flowing through the fuse exceeds a predetermined value, the fusible element melts and opens one or more circuits passing through the fuse, protecting the electrical components from damage.

[0003] Various fusible disconnect devices are known in the prior art, wherein the fusible output power can be selectively switched from an electrical power supply input. However, existing fusible disconnect devices do not fully meet market demands, and improvements are desired. In particular, high-current applications place additional demands on fusible disconnect devices, which existing fusible disconnect devices do not adequately meet. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments are described with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified.

[0005] Figure 1A Side view of a fusible switch disconnect device.

[0006] Figure 1B Similar to Figure 1A , but showing the internal components in the switch housing and without the fusible module.

[0007] Figure 2 Used in Figures 1A-1B An enlarged perspective view of a switch assembly of a switch disconnecting device is shown in FIG.

[0008] Figure 3A 、 3B 3C and 3D illustrate the sequential activation of the switching mechanism in a switch closing operation.

[0009] Figure 4A 、 4B 4C and 4D show the successive activation of the switching mechanism in the switch opening operation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] Hereinafter, example embodiments of fusible disconnect switch devices are described that have enhanced characteristics for use in high current industrial power supplies. Method aspects will be apparent in part and discussed in part in detail in the following description.

[0011] Figure 1A and 1B An exemplary fusible disconnect switch device 50 is shown. Figure 1A is a perspective view of the circuit breaker device 50, Figure 1B FIG2 is a similar view of the circuit breaker 50 without the fuse module 54 installed, illustrating the internal components of the circuit breaker 50. In the exemplary embodiment, the circuit breaker 50 includes a non-conductive switch housing 52 that is constructed or adapted to house a retractable rectangular power safety fuse module 54. The fuse module 54 is similar in some respects to a CUBEFuse TM Similar to the power fuse module, the CUBEFuse TM Power fuse modules are available from Bussmann of Eaton Corporation in St. Louis, Missouri. However, this fuse module 54 is constructed to be taller than the previously available CUBEFuse TM Current industrial power applications that can be achieved by power fuse modules. In a contemplated example, the fuse module 54 may have a rated voltage of 500 VDC and a rated current carrying capacity of 400 A or 600 A in a contemplated example. The switch housing 52 and the circuit breaker assembly 50 are similarly designed to handle this high current application, including but not limited to the improved switching mechanism described below, to better meet the requirements of high current industrial power systems.

[0012] In the exemplary embodiment, the line side fuse clip 60 ( Figure 1B ) can be located within the switch housing 52 and can accommodate one of the lugs (not shown) of the fuse module 54. A load-side fuse clip 62 can also be located within the switch housing 52 and can accommodate another fuse lug (not shown). The line-side fuse clip 60 can be electrically connected to a line-side terminal 63 including a stationary contact 64. The load-side fuse clip 62 can be electrically connected to a load-side terminal 66.

[0013] The switch housing 52 is further provided with a rotary switch actuator 68 having an operating lever 69 extending from the switch housing 52 for manually positioning the switch actuator 68 between the operating positions described below to open and close the movable contacts 74, 76 (see FIG. Figure 2 ) switch assembly 200. The switch actuator 68 is mechanically coupled to one end of the link 70 and the handle biasing element 101 via a protruding arm 71 that extends radially away from the circular body of the switch actuator 68. The circular body is mounted within the switch housing 52 and rotates about its own central axis to operate the switch mechanism.

[0014] The connecting rod 70 is further connected at its other end to a slider assembly 72. The slider assembly 72 carries a pair of movable contacts 74 and 76. Another stationary contact 80 is also provided (see Figure 2 , ), which are electrically connected to the line-side terminals 63. The line-side terminals 63 can be electrically connected to the power circuit, and the load-side terminals 66 can be electrically connected to the load-side circuit in a known manner. Various connection techniques are known (e.g., screw clamp terminals, box terminals, bolted connections, terminal posts, busbar connections, etc.) and can be used to establish line-side and load-side connections with the external circuit to be protected by the fuse module 54.

[0015] The disconnect switch is activated by grasping the operating lever 69 and rotating the switch actuator 68 in the direction of arrow A from the "off" position to the "off" position, moving the handle biasing element 101 and subsequently causing the linkage 70 to move the slide assembly 72 in a number of successive stages of actuation, as will be described in detail below. The slide assembly 72 moves linearly in the direction of arrow B, ultimately causing the switch contacts 74 and 76 to move toward the stationary contacts 64 and 80. Ultimately, when the contacts 74 and 76 mechanically and electrically engage the stationary contacts 64 and 80, the switch mechanism closes. With the switch mechanism closed, the circuit path between the line-side and load-side terminals through the fuse 54 is completed when the fuse lugs are received within the line-side and load-side fuse clips 60 and 62.

[0016] When the operating lever 69 is moved to rotate the switch actuator 68 in the opposite direction indicated by arrow C, the handle biasing element 101 moves and causes the link 70 to move, which in turn causes the slide assembly 72 to move linearly in the direction of arrow D during a number of successive stages of actuation described in detail below and ultimately pulls the switch contacts 74 and 76 away from the stationary contacts 64 and 80 to open the circuit path through the fuse module 54. In this way, by using the operating lever 69 to move the switch actuator 68 to the desired position, the fuse module 54 and the associated load-side circuit can be connected or disconnected from the line-side circuit, while the line-side circuit remains "live" when operating at full power. Figure 1A and 1B As can be seen, the switch actuator 68 is configured with a square internal hole that can accommodate an external shaft so that the switch actuator 68 can be remotely rotated in an automated manner. In yet another embodiment, the switch housing 52 can include an internal trip mechanism that causes the switch actuator 68 to rotate and thereby prevent the fuse module 54 from opening if certain current conditions are detected. A current detection and control circuit can optionally be provided to operate the trip mechanism when the trip mechanism is provided.

[0017] The fuse module 54 can be simply inserted into or removed from the fuse clips 60, 62 to install the fuse module 54 into or remove the fuse module 54 from the switch housing 52. The fuse housing 56 protrudes from the switch housing 52 and is accessible from the outside of the switch housing 52, so that a person can grasp the handle 59 and pull the handle in the direction of arrow D to disengage the fuse lugs from the line-side and load-side fuse clips 60 and 62, thereby completely removing the fuse module 54 from the switch housing 52. Similarly, a replacement fuse module 54 can be grasped by hand and moved toward the switch housing 52 in the direction of arrow B to engage the fuse lugs to the line-side and load-side fuse clips 60 and 62. This plug-and-play connection and removal of the fuse module 54 advantageously facilitates quick and easy installation and removal of the fuse module 54 without requiring a separately supplied fuse-carrying element and without requiring tools or fasteners that are common to other known fusible disconnect switch devices.

[0018] Furthermore, the circuit breaker assembly 50 is more compact and can easily occupy less space within a fusible switchboard assembly, for example, compared to conventional in-line fuse and circuit breaker combinations. Specifically, the fuse module 54 occupies less area (sometimes referred to as a footprint) within the switchboard assembly than non-rectangular fuses of comparable rating and interrupting capacity. This reduces the size of the switchboard and increases interrupting capacity. For example, the overall footprint of the circuit breaker assembly 50 is approximately 40% to 50% of that of conventional circuit breaker assemblies of the same rated current.

[0019] In daily use, the circuit is preferably connected and disconnected at the switch contacts 64, 74, 76, and 80 rather than at the fuse clips. Any arcing that may occur when connecting / disconnecting the circuit can be contained away from the fuse clips, providing additional safety for personnel installing, removing, or replacing fuses. By using the switch actuator 68 to disconnect the circuit breaker assembly 50 before installing or removing the fuse module 54, any hazards caused by arcing or live metal at the interface between the fuse module and the housing are eliminated. Consequently, the fusible disconnect assembly 50 can be considered safer to use than many known fusible disconnect switches.

[0020] The fusible disconnect switch assembly 50 further includes features such as a safety cover 92 actuated by an interlock element 90 coupled to the switch actuator 68, which enhances the safety of the disconnect switch assembly 50 in the event that an operator attempts to install the fuse module 54 without first operating the switch actuator 68 to open the circuit through the fuse module 54. An interlock shaft 96 can be used to prevent an operator from attempting to remove the fuse module 54 without first operating the switch actuator 68 to open the circuit through the fuse module 54.

[0021] As the rating increases, the arc energy between the movable contacts 74, 76 and the stationary contacts 64, 80 may increase. To eliminate the increased arc energy, the distance between the movable contacts 74, 76 and the stationary contacts 64, 80 may be increased, thereby increasing the number of arc extinguishing plates (not shown) within the arc extinguishing hood 150 (see FIG. Figure 1B ). In addition, metal sheets 148 may be welded to contacts 74, 76, 64, 80 and terminals 63, 66 to aid in heat dissipation. The metal sheets may be made of copper, aluminum, or other metals that enable circuit breaker device 50 to function as described herein. For example, the amount of copper disposed around contacts 74, 76, 64, 80 and terminals 63, 66 is approximately three times greater than that of known circuit breaker devices having the same current rating.

[0022] Figure 2 FIG2 is an enlarged view of a switch assembly 200 included in the disconnect switch device 50. In the exemplary embodiment, the switch assembly 200 includes a switch actuator 68, a handle biasing element 101, and a slider assembly 72. The handle biasing element 101 is rotatably coupled to the switch actuator 68 at a joint 204. The slider assembly 72 is connected to the switch actuator 68 and the handle biasing element 101 at the joint 204 via a link 70. The slider assembly 72 and the handle biasing assembly 101 respond to the position of the switch actuator 68 to achieve a switch-on operation or a switch-off operation.

[0023] In an exemplary embodiment, the handle biasing element 101 is a coil spring. The handle biasing element 101 includes a first end 206 and a second end 208 opposite the first end 206. The first end 206 of the handle biasing element 101 acts on the switch actuator 68. The second end 208 of the handle biasing element 101 can be coupled to the switch housing 52. For example, the second end 208 is attached to a rod 209. The rod 209 is coupled to the switch housing 52 by being inserted into a hole (not shown) formed in the switch housing 52. In some embodiments, a shaft 210 is included around which the handle biasing element is wound. The shaft 210 provides structural support for the handle biasing element 101, allowing the handle biasing element 101 to slide along the shaft 210 when the handle biasing element 101 is compressed or decompressed.

[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, the link 70 includes a first end 212 and a second end 214 opposite the first end 212. The first end 212 is coupled to the switch actuator 68 and the handle biasing element 101. The second end 214 is coupled to the slider assembly 72. The link 70 also includes a link slot 216. The link slot 216 is elongated and oriented generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the link 70. The link slot 216 can be positioned near the first end 212 of the link 70. The link slot 216 includes a first end 215 and a second end 217, which is opposite the first end 215 and further away from the first end 212 of the link 70 than the first end 215. In some embodiments, the link 70 is coupled to the connector 204, which extends through the link slot 216. During opening and closing operations of the circuit breaker device 50, the link 70 slides along the link slot 216 between the first end 215 and the second end 217. The connecting rod 70 may be made of metal, such as steel, copper, or other material that enables the connecting rod 70 to function as described above.

[0025] In some embodiments, the switch assembly 200 includes two connecting rods 70 (see Figure 1B ). Linkages 70 are positioned on opposite sides of handle biasing element 101. The dual-link configuration ensures that the force from handle biasing element 101 is balanced on switch actuator 68 and slider assembly 72. The dual-link configuration also distributes the impact of rapid movement of slider assembly 72 on linkage 70.

[0026] During operation, rotation of the switch actuator 68 causes the joint 204 to slide within the link slot 216 and causes the handle biasing element 101 to pivot about the second end 208 of the handle biasing element 101. During the pivoting, the handle biasing element 101 is compressed and stores energy, or decompressed and releases energy. During the downward movement of the joint 204, when the joint 204 reaches the second end 217 of the link slot 216, the joint 204 engages the link 70, and the combined force from the handle biasing element 101 and the switch actuator 68 is applied to the link 70 and further to the slider assembly 72. During the upward movement of the joint 204, when the joint 204 reaches the first end 215 of the link slot 216, the joint 204 engages the link 70, and the combined force from the handle biasing element 101 and the switch actuator 68 is applied to the link 70 and further to the slider assembly 72. Accordingly, during a switch closing or opening operation, handle biasing element 101 increases the force applied to slider assembly 72. Furthermore, because connector 204 initially slides along link slot 216 without engaging link 70, the force required to initiate a closing or opening operation is reduced to the force required to compress handle biasing element 101, rather than the force required to move a portion or all of slider assembly 72. Furthermore, during an opening or closing operation, the impact of the operating torque is concentrated on link slot 216. In known circuit breaker devices, the slot is located on switch actuator 68, such as on protruding arm 71. Because switch actuator 68 is made of an insulating material, such as plastic, for safety reasons, the strength of switch actuator 68 is insufficient to withstand the torque from high-speed opening or closing, thereby reducing the life of the circuit breaker device. By locating link slot 216 on link 70, the link can be made of a more durable material, such as metal, than the insulating material used for switch actuator 68, thereby helping link 70 withstand the impact of the operating torque. Therefore, the life of the circuit breaker device 50 is extended.

[0027] The slider assembly 72 includes a first or upper slider 100 and a second or lower slider 102, which slide relative to the switch housing 52 along linear axes in the directions of arrows B and D, respectively. That is, in the illustrated example, the first and second sliders 100, 102 are each movable along coincident linear axes. The first slider 100 is further movable independently relative to the second slider 102. Specifically, the first slider 100 is movable relative to the second slider 102 during the first phase of the opening and closing operation, while the second slider remains stationary. The second slider 102 carries the movable contacts 74, 76 for establishing or breaking electrical connection with the stationary contacts 64, 80 and is moved by the first slider 100 during the second phase of the switch closing and opening operation.

[0028] The first slider 100 is biased by a pair of biasing elements 104, 106 located on either side of a first end of the first slider 100. One end 110 of the biasing element 104 is coupled to the first slider 100. The other end 116 of the biasing element 104 is coupled to the switch housing 52. A helical compression spring portion 120 is included between the ends 110, 116 of the biasing element 104.

[0029] The biasing element 106 is substantially identical to the biasing element 104 shown and is similarly coupled to the first slider 100 and the switch housing 52. Because the first slider 100 is movable along a linear axis in the directions of arrows B and D, the biasing elements 104, 106, which are mechanically coupled to the first slider 100, pivot about their ends as the first slider 100 is moved, where the opposing ends of the biasing elements 104, 106 are held in place. The pivotal mounting of the biasing elements 104, 106 allows them to store and release force and energy to facilitate opening and closing when the switch contacts 74, 76 are pivoted to different positions. In some embodiments, similar to the handle biasing element 101, the shaft 210 is pivoted such that the biasing elements 104, 106 are wound about the shaft 210. The biasing elements 104, 106 can be coupled to the switch housing 52 via a rod 209.

[0030] The first slider 100 can be formed from a plastic material known in the art. In an exemplary embodiment, the first slider 100 includes a body 218 and two arms 220 extending from the body 218. The arms 220 can extend perpendicularly from the body 218. Each biasing element 104, 106 is coupled to the first slider 100 at one of the arms 220. The connecting rod 70 can be rotatably coupled to the first slider at an intermediate position 226 at a first end of the first slider 100.

[0031] In an exemplary embodiment, the body 218 of the first slider 100 further includes at least one slider slot. The slider slot 228 may be oriented longitudinally along the body 218. In some embodiments, two slider slots 228 are included in the body 218. The two slider slots 228 may be parallel to each other.

[0032] The second slider 102 may also be formed of a plastic material known in the art. In an exemplary embodiment, the second slider 102 includes a body 230 and an arm 232. The arm 232 extends longitudinally away from an end 233 of the body 230. At the end of the arm 232, a rod 234 is coupled to the arm 232. At least one pin 236 is positioned on the rod 234. In some embodiments, the second slider 102 includes a pair of pins 236. The pins 236 are slidably coupled to the first slider 100 within the slider slot 228 so that the pins 236 slide along the slider slot 228 during the opening and closing operations of the circuit breaker device 50. Proximate to the end 233 of the body 230, the second slider 102 carries at least one movable contact 74, 76 toward or away from the stationary contact 64, 80 to open or close the line side terminal 63 and / or the load side terminal 66 (see Figure 1B ) to establish or disconnect an electrical connection. In some embodiments, the circuit breaker device 50 includes a pair of stationary contacts 64 and a pair of movable contacts 74 for the line-side terminal 63, and similarly includes a pair of stationary contacts 80 and a pair of movable contacts 76. This dual-contact configuration provides a more secure electrical contact between the stationary contacts 64, 80 and the movable contacts 74, 76 than a single-contact configuration.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, the second slider 102 is coupled to the ends of the biasing elements 144, 146 proximate the end 138 of the second slider 102. The biasing elements 144, 146 are coupled to the switch housing 52 at their other ends. In some embodiments, a shaft 210 is provided around which the biasing elements 144, 146 are wound. The biasing elements 144, 146 can be coupled to the switch housing 52 via a rod 209.

[0034] exist Figures 3A to 3D The switch closing operation is shown in FIG. Figure 3A The preparation stage for the closing operation is shown. Figure 3A In the present embodiment, the switch actuator 68 rotates from the open or closed position 302 in the direction of arrow A, separating the movable contacts 74, 76 from the stationary contacts 64, 80. The handle biasing element 101 begins to compress and accumulate energy. The connector 204 slides along the connecting rod slot 216 of the connecting rod 70 toward the connecting rod 70. The first and second sliders 100, 102 and their biasing elements 104, 106, 144, 146 remain stationary and mechanically isolated from the handle biasing element 101 during the ready phase. This mechanical isolation reduces the force required to initiate the closing operation to the force required to compress the handle biasing element 101, rather than the force required to move the first slider 100 or the entire slider assembly 72.

[0035] exist Figure 3B, the switch actuator 68 further rotates in the direction of arrow A, illustrating the first stage of the switch closing operation. In this first stage, the handle biasing element has reached its maximum compression and begins to release its stored energy, pushing the joint 204 toward the second end 214 of the connecting rod 70. In this first stage, the joint 204 has reached the end of the connecting rod slot 216 of the connecting rod 70 and pushes the connecting rod 70. That is, the switch actuator 68 and the handle biasing element 101 are engaged with the connecting rod 70 and the first slider 100, and the combined force from the switch actuator 68 and the handle biasing element 101 is applied to the first slider 100. As the switch actuator 68 rotates and the handle biasing element releases its stored energy, the first slider 100 moves downward in the direction of arrow B through the connecting rod 70, while the second slider 102 remains stationary. In addition to the force from the switch actuator 68, the release of the stored energy of the handle biasing element 101 increases the force applied to the first slider 100. Therefore, the speed of the closing operation is increased compared to a switch assembly that does not include the handle biasing element 101. The biasing elements 104, 106 coupled to the first slider 100 are compressed and accumulate energy as the first slider 100 descends. The descending first slider 100 also causes the biasing elements 104, 106 to be moved from their original positions. Figure 3A The lowered first slide 100 also causes the handle biasing elements 101 to pivot away from their initial position shown in FIG. Figure 3A . The second slide 102 and its biasing elements 144, 146 are mechanically isolated from the first slide 100, but are not affected by this phase of operation. The mechanical isolation of the second slide 102 from the first slide 100 during this first phase reduces the force required to rotate the switch actuator 68 compared to a second slide that is permanently coupled to the first slide. Thus, the force required during the first phase of the closing operation is the force required to move the first slide 100 downward, and therefore both the first and second slides.

[0036] Figure 3C The second stage of the switch closing operation is shown. As the first slider 100 descends, the handle biasing element 101 is compressed and accumulates energy in the compression. The first slider 100 has now descended further and is pressed against the second slider 102 at the end 233 of the body 230 of the second slider 102. At this stage, the second slider 102 is driven by the first slider 100 and the second slider 102 moves with the first slider 100. That is, the sliders 100, 102 descend together at this stage. As the second slider 102 begins to move downward in the direction of arrow B, the biasing elements 144, 146 are compressed to accumulate energy and are pivoted as shown. The switch contacts 74, 76 are carried downward toward the stationary contacts 64, 80 along with the second slider 102. Figure 3CIn the position shown, the biasing elements 104 , 106 coupled to the first slider 100 are in a state of maximum compression.

[0037] The pivoting biasing elements 104 and 106 are arranged as they pivot past the Figure 3C . The handle biasing element 101 has not yet reached its maximum compression state and continues to release the accumulated force. The accumulated force in the springs is released as they are decompressed to drive the first slider 100 downward to separate it from the rotation of the switch actuator 68. After this action begins, the pivoting biasing elements 144, 146 connected to the second slider 102 reach their maximum compression state and also begin to release the accumulated force as they are further pivoted. The biasing elements 144, 146 then also drive the second slider 102 downward. The combined release force of the handle biasing element 101 and the biasing elements 104, 106, 144, 146 causes the switch contacts 74, 76 to close quickly and securely. The handle biasing element 101 increases the force pushing the slider assembly 72, and the speed of the closing operation is also increased. Because the first slider 100 is directly connected to the switch actuator 68, the switch actuator 68 is moved to the fully closed position ( Figure 4D Once the biasing elements 104, 106, 144, 146 move past their equilibrium positions, the switching mechanism closes with a firm, automatic snap action. This rapid, automatic closing is advantageous for high voltage, high current power systems where the potential for severe arcing exists.

[0038] Figures 4A to 4D The switch opening operation is shown. Figure 4A The preparation phase for the disconnected position is shown. Figure 4A , the switch actuator 68 rotates from the closed position 402 in the direction of arrow C. The switch contacts 74, 76 are closed and the circuit path through them is completed. The handle biasing element 101 begins to compress and accumulate energy. The connector 204 slides along the connecting rod slot 216 of the connecting rod 70 toward the first end 215 of the connecting rod 70. The first and second sliders 100, 102 and their biasing elements 104, 106, 144, 146 remain stationary. In the preparatory stage, the handle biasing element 101 is mechanically isolated from the first and second sliders 100, 102 and their biasing elements 104, 106, 144, 146. This mechanical isolation reduces the force required to activate the open position to the force required to compress the handle biasing element 101, rather than the force required to move the first slider 100 or both the first and second sliders 100, 102.

[0039] Figure 4BThe first stage of the disconnect operation is shown, in which the switch actuator 68 is further rotated in the direction of arrow C. The handle biasing element 101 has passed its maximum compression point, and the accumulated energy is released into a force that pushes the switch actuator in the direction of arrow C. Accordingly, the disconnect operation speed is increased. Furthermore, the joint 204 has reached the end of the link slot 216 of the connecting rod 70, so that the joint 204, the handle biasing element 101, and the switch actuator 68 engage the connecting rod 70 and the first slider 100, causing the first slider 100 to move. In the first stage, the first slider 100 is pulled upward in the direction of arrow D, while the second slider 102 remains stationary. The biasing elements 104 and 106 coupled to the first slider 100 are compressed and begin to accumulate energy as they pivot from their initial position. The second slider 102 and its biasing elements 144 and 146 are mechanically isolated from the first slider 100 and are not affected by this stage of the operation. Again, this mechanical isolation is advantageous because the force required for the first stage of the opening operation is the force required to move the first slide 100 rather than the force required to move both the first and second slides.

[0040] exist Figure 4C , the switch actuator 68 is further rotated and the first slider 100 is lifted enough to a point where the pin 236 at the end of the slider slot 228 presses against the body 218 of the first slider 100. The second slider 102 engages the first slider 100 through the engagement of the pin 236 with the body 218 of the first slider 100. The first and second sliders 100, 102 are now mechanically coupled and rise together with the first slider 100 driving the upward movement of the second slider 102. The biasing elements 144, 146 connected to the second slider 102 are compressed and as the second slider 102 begins to move they move from the first slider 102 to the second slider 102. Figure 4A The initial position shown is pivoted to begin accumulating energy.

[0041] like Figure 4CAs shown, handle biasing element 101 has not yet reached its maximum decompressed state, and biasing elements 104, 106 coupled to first slider 100 have already pivoted past their equilibrium point. Handle biasing element 101 continues to release its stored energy, and biasing elements 104, 106 are now releasing their stored energy to force first slider 100 upward and drive switch contacts 74, 76 away from stationary contacts 64, 80. The release force acting on first slider 100 accelerates the upward movement of second slider 102, now coupled to first slider 100, and causes biasing elements 144, 146 coupled to second slider 102 to pivot past their equilibrium point. As this occurs, biasing elements 144, 146 also begin to release their stored energy to drive second slider 102 upward and drive switch contacts 74, 76 away from stationary contacts 64, 80 with increasing force. At this stage, all of the biasing elements 104 , 106 , 144 , 146 and the handle biasing element 101 cooperate to actuate the switch mechanism to the fully OFF position.

[0042] The combined release force of the handle biasing element 101 and the biasing elements 104, 106, 144, 146 causes the switch contacts 74, 76 to open and separate quickly. Because the first slider 100 is directly connected to the switch actuator 68, the switch actuator 68 is moved to the position in the handle biasing element 101 under the action of the force. Figure 4D . Once the handle biasing element 101 and the biasing elements 104, 106, 144, 146 move past their equilibrium points, the switch mechanism opens with a firm, automatic snap action. This rapid, automatic opening is advantageous for high-voltage, high-current power systems where there is the potential for severe arcing.

[0043] At least one technical effect of the systems and methods described herein includes (a) increasing the opening and / or closing speed of a switch disconnect device; (b) reducing the force required to be applied to the switch actuator during opening and / or closing operations; and (c) increasing the average life of the switch actuator and the disconnect switch device.

[0044] It is now believed that the benefits of the described inventive concepts have been fully demonstrated with respect to the disclosed exemplary embodiments.

[0045] Embodiments of a fusible disconnect switch device are provided. The disconnect switch device includes a switch housing and line-side terminals and load-side terminals located within the switch housing. The switch housing is configured to accommodate a pluggable fuse module. The disconnect switch device also includes a switch actuator, a handle biasing element, and a slide assembly. The switch actuator is selectively positionable between an open position and a closed position. The handle biasing element includes a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first end acts on the switch actuator, and the second end is coupled to the switch housing. The slide assembly is coupled to the switch actuator. The slide assembly includes a first slide and a second slide that are each slidable along a linear axis relative to the switch housing. The first slide is independently movable relative to the second slide. The second slide has at least one switch contact for establishing or disconnecting an electrical connection with one of the line-side and load-side terminals. A first biasing element acts on the first slide, and a second biasing element acts on the second slide. The second biasing element is mechanically isolated from the switch actuator during a first phase of a switch closing operation. The handle biasing element and the slide assembly respond to the position of the switch actuator to affect the switch closing and opening operations.

[0046] Optionally, the handle biasing element accumulates energy during a preparatory phase of a switch closing operation and releases the energy during both the first and second phases of the switch closing operation. The handle biasing element accumulates energy during a preparatory phase of a switch opening operation and releases the energy during both the first and second phases of the switch opening operation. The handle biasing element moves independently of the slider assembly and is mechanically isolated from the slider assembly, with the slider assembly remaining stationary during either the preparatory phase of the switch opening operation or the switch closing operation. The fusible disconnect switch device further includes a link connecting the switch actuator to the first slider, the link including a link slot and slidably coupled to the switch actuator at the link slot. The link is slidably coupled to the switch actuator and the handle biasing element at a joint between the switch actuator and the handle biasing element. The fusible disconnect switch device further includes a pair of links, the switch actuator slidably coupled to the pair of links at a link slot in each of the pair of links, the pair of links being positioned on opposite sides of the handle biasing element. The first and second biasing elements and the handle biasing element provide a closing force during a second stage of the switch closing operation.

[0047] Alternatively, the first and second biasing elements and the handle biasing element provide a disconnecting force during the second phase of the switch opening operation. The second slider further includes at least one pin configured to engage the first slider during both the switch opening operation and the switch closing operation. The second slider includes a pair of pins. The first slider defines at least one slider slot that receives at least one pin therein. The at least one pin is slidably coupled to the first slider at the at least one slider slot, and the second slider engages the first slider during the second phase of the switch closing operation. The first slider defines a pair of slider slots positioned generally parallel to one another. The second slider includes a pair of pins, each of the pair of pins being received in each of the pair of slider slots.

[0048] Another embodiment of a fusible disconnect switch device is provided. The fusible disconnect switch device includes a switch housing, line-side terminals and load-side terminals located within the switch housing, a switch actuator, a handle biasing element, a slider assembly, and a first pair of biasing elements. The switch housing is configured to accommodate a removable fuse. The switch actuator is selectively positioned between an open position and a closed position. The handle biasing element includes a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end acting on the switch actuator and the second end coupled to the housing. The slider assembly is coupled to the switch actuator. The first pair of biasing elements each have a first end and a second end, the first end of each of the first pair of biasing elements being coupled to the housing, and the second end of each of the first pair of biasing elements acting on a corresponding one of opposite sides of the slider assembly. The first pair of biasing elements are synchronously compressed or decompressed by selectively positioning the slider assembly to cooperatively accumulate and release energy to achieve a switch closing operation or a switch opening operation. The handle biasing element and slide assembly are responsive to the position of the switch actuator to effect a switch closing operation or a switch opening operation by selectively positioning at least one switch contact to establish or disconnect an electrical connection with the load side terminals.

[0049] Optionally, the fusible disconnect switch device further comprises a link connecting the switch actuator to the slider assembly, the link further comprising a slider slot and slidably coupled to the switch actuator at the slider slot. During preparation for a switch opening operation or a switch closing operation, the handle biasing element is mechanically isolated from the slider assembly and the slider assembly remains stationary.

[0050] Yet another embodiment of a fusible disconnect switch device is provided. The disconnect switch device includes a switch housing and line-side terminals and load-side terminals located within the switch housing. The switch housing is configured to accommodate a pluggable fuse module. The disconnect switch device also includes a switch actuator, a handle biasing element, and a slide assembly. The switch actuator is selectively positionable between an open position and a closed position. The handle biasing element includes a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end acting on the switch actuator and the second end coupled to the switch housing. The slide assembly is coupled to the switch actuator. The slide assembly includes a first slide and a second slide, each slidable along a linear axis relative to the switch housing. The second slide has at least one switch contact for establishing or severing an electrical connection with one of the line-side and load-side terminals. The first slide is independently movable relative to the second slide. The handle biasing element and the slide assembly respond to the position of the switch actuator to implement a switch-closing operation and a switch-opening operation. The handle biasing element accumulates energy in a preparatory phase of the switch-opening operation and releases energy during the first and second phases of the switch-closing operation.

[0051] Optionally, the fusible disconnect switch device further includes a link connecting the switch actuator to the first slider, the link further including a slider slot and slidably coupled to the switch actuator at the slider slot. During a preparatory phase of a switch opening operation or a switch closing operation, the handle biasing element is mechanically isolated from the slider assembly, and the handle biasing element moves independently of the slider assembly. The first and second biasing elements and the handle biasing element provide a closing force during a second phase of the switch closing operation.

[0052] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any included methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. If other examples have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent elements that do not differ substantially from the literal language of the claims, then such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A fusible disconnect switch device comprising: a switch housing configured to accommodate a pluggable fuse module; line-side terminals and load-side terminals located within the switch housing; a switch actuator selectively positionable between an open position and a closed position; a handle biasing element including a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end acting on the switch actuator, the second end coupled to the switch housing; a slider assembly connected to the switch actuator, wherein the slider assembly includes a first slider and a second slider each slidably movable along a linear axis relative to the switch housing, the first slider being independently movable relative to the second slider, the second slider having at least one switch contact for establishing or disconnecting an electrical connection with one of the line-side terminal and the load-side terminal, a first biasing element acting on the first slider and a second biasing element acting on the second slider, the second biasing element being mechanically isolated from the switch actuator in a first stage of a switch closing operation, wherein the handle biasing element and the slider assembly are responsive to a position of the switch actuator to effect a switch closing operation and a switch opening operation; and The switch actuator is connected to a link of the first slider, the link further comprising a link slot and being slidably coupled to the switch actuator at the link slot.

2. The fusible disconnect switch device according to claim 1, wherein the handle biasing element accumulates energy in a preparatory stage of the switch closing operation, and the handle biasing element releases energy in a first stage of the switch closing operation and a second stage of the switch closing operation.

3. The fusible disconnect switch device according to claim 1, wherein the handle biasing element accumulates energy in a preparatory stage of the switch opening operation, and the handle biasing element releases energy in a first stage of the switch opening operation and a second stage of the switch opening operation.

4. The fusible disconnect switch device according to claim 1, wherein the handle biasing element moves independently of the slider assembly, and during a preparation stage of a switch opening operation or a switch closing operation, the handle biasing element is mechanically isolated from the slider assembly and the slider assembly remains stationary.

5. The fusible disconnect switch device of claim 1, wherein the link is slidingly coupled to the switch actuator and the handle biasing element at a joint between the switch actuator and the handle biasing element.

6. The fusible disconnect switch device of claim 1 , further comprising a pair of links, the switch actuator being slidingly coupled to the pair of links at a link slot of each of the pair of links, wherein the pair of links are positioned on opposite sides of the handle biasing element.

7. The fusible disconnect switch device of claim 1, wherein the first biasing element and the second biasing element and the handle biasing element provide a closing force in a second phase of the switch closing operation.

8. The fusible disconnect switch device of claim 1, wherein the first biasing element and the second biasing element and the handle biasing element provide a disconnecting force in a second stage of the switch opening operation.

9. The fusible disconnect switch device of claim 1, wherein the second slider further comprises at least one pin configured to engage the first slider in the switch opening operation and the switch closing operation.

10. The fusible disconnect switch device of claim 9, wherein the second slide comprises a pair of pins.

11. The fusible circuit breaker device according to claim 9, wherein the first slider defines at least one slider slot accommodating the at least one pin, the at least one pin is slidingly connected to the first slider at the at least one slider slot, and the second slider engages the first slider in the second stage of the switch closing operation.

12. The fusible disconnect switch device according to claim 9, wherein the first slider defines a pair of slider slots positioned parallel to each other, and the second slider includes a pair of pins, each of the pair of pins is respectively received in one of the pair of slider slots.

13. A fusible disconnect switch device comprising: a switch housing configured to house a removable fuse; line-side terminals and load-side terminals located within the switch housing; a switch actuator selectively positionable between an open position and a closed position; a handle biasing element including a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end acting on the switch actuator and the second end coupled to the switch housing; a slider assembly connected to the switch actuator; a link connecting the switch actuator to the slider assembly, the link further comprising a slider slot and slidably coupled to the switch actuator at the slider slot; and a first pair of biasing elements each having a first end and a second end, the first end of each of the first pair of biasing elements being coupled to the switch housing, the second end of each of the first pair of biasing elements acting on a corresponding side of opposite sides of the slider assembly, wherein the first pair of biasing elements are synchronously compressed by selectively positioning the slider assembly or synchronously decompressed by selectively positioning the slider assembly to cooperatively accumulate and release energy, thereby achieving a switch closing operation or a switch opening operation; The handle biasing element and the slider assembly respond to the position of the switch actuator to establish or disconnect an electrical connection with a load-side terminal by selectively positioning at least one switch contact, thereby achieving a switch closing operation or a switch opening operation.

14. The fusible disconnect switch device according to claim 13, wherein during a preparation phase of the switch opening operation or the switch closing operation, the handle biasing element is mechanically isolated from the slider assembly and the slider assembly remains stationary.

15. A fusible disconnect switch device comprising: a switch housing configured to accommodate a pluggable fuse module; line-side terminals and load-side terminals located within the switch housing; a switch actuator selectively positionable between an open position and a closed position; a handle biasing element including a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end acting on the switch actuator and the second end coupled to the switch housing; a slider assembly connected to the switch actuator, wherein the slider assembly includes a first slider and a second slider that are each slidably movable along a linear axis relative to the switch housing, the second slider having at least one switch contact for establishing or disconnecting an electrical connection with one of the line-side terminal and the load-side terminal, and the first slider being independently movable relative to the second slider, wherein the handle biasing element and the slider assembly are responsive to a position of the switch actuator to implement a switch closing operation and a switch opening operation, the handle biasing element storing energy in a preparatory stage of the switch opening operation and releasing energy in a first stage of the switch closing operation and a second stage of the switch closing operation; and A link connects the switch actuator to the first slider, the link further comprising a slider slot and slidably coupled to the switch actuator at the slider slot.

16. The fusible disconnect switch device according to claim 15, wherein the handle biasing element is mechanically isolated from the slide assembly, and during a preparation stage of the switch opening operation or the switch closing operation, the handle biasing element moves independently of the slide assembly.

17. The fusible disconnect switch device according to claim 15 further includes at least one first biasing element acting on the first slider and at least one second biasing element acting on the second slider, wherein the first biasing element, the second biasing element and the handle biasing element provide a closing force in the second stage of the switch closing operation.

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