Interlock system for low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an interlock system for low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear, the switchgear comprising: - a compartment; - a door; - a door handle; and - a circuit breaker; wherein the door allows access to the interior of the compartment; wherein the door handle is used to open and close the door; wherein the circuit breaker is located in the compartment; wherein the door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position; and wherein the interlock system is configured such that: when the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open; and wherein the movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and wherein in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an interlocking system for low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear and low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear. Background Art

[0002] The operation of low-voltage, medium-voltage and high-voltage switchgear must follow certain rules so that the safety of the equipment and the operator is ensured. This generally involves the use of interlocks.

[0003] Interlocks can be operated mechanically, electrically or in a combined mechanical and electrical manner. Mechanical interlocks are generally preferred because they work without a power supply and their condition can be easily surveyed by the operator.

[0004] However, there is a risk that the interlock can be overridden by using excessive force by the operator or by the operator deliberately seeking to override the interlock.

[0005] There is a need to provide low-voltage, medium-voltage and high-voltage switchgear with an improved interlocking system. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, it would be advantageous to have an improved interlocking technology for low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear.

[0007] The object of the present invention is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims, wherein further embodiments are incorporated into the dependent claims.

[0008] In a first aspect, there is provided an interlocking system for low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear, the switchgear comprising:

[0009] - a compartment;

[0010] - a door;

[0011] - a door handle; and

[0012] - a circuit breaker;

[0013] wherein the door allows access to the interior of the compartment;

[0014] wherein the door handle is used to open and close the door;

[0015] wherein the circuit breaker is located in the compartment;

[0016] wherein the door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position; and

[0017] wherein the interlocking system is configured such that:

[0018] when the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open; and

[0019] Wherein the movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and wherein in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated.

[0020] In a second aspect, there is provided a low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear, comprising:

[0021] - A compartment;

[0022] - A door;

[0023] - A door handle; and

[0024] - A circuit breaker.

[0025] The door allows access to the interior of the compartment. The door handle is used to open and close the door. The circuit breaker is located in the compartment. The door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated. When the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open.

[0026] In an example, the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and wherein in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0027] In an example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, wherein it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0028] In an example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration, wherein it is not locked to move from the closed position to the open position.

[0029] In an example, the switchgear includes an earthing switch and an earthing switch operating handle or rod. When the earthing switch operating handle or rod is inserted, the earthing switch is configured not to operate, and when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is not inserted, the earthing switch is configured to operate. The movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to deactivate the lock, and the deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the earthing switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

[0030] In an example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration.

[0031] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to activate the lock, and the activation of the lock is configured to prevent the earthing switch operating handle or rod from being inserted.

[0032] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the withdrawn configuration to the inserted configuration is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0033] In an example, a switchgear includes: a second compartment; a second door; and a second door handle. The second door permits access to the interior of the second compartment. The second door handle is used to open and close the second door. The second door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The earthing switch is configured to switch to the on state by using an earthing switch operating handle or rod, and the earthing switch is configured to switch to the off state by using an earthing switch operating handle or rod. When the second door handle is in the closed position, the second door is configured not to open, and when the second door handle is in the open position, the second door is configured to open. When the second door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to place the second door handle in a locked configuration, in which it is locked against movement from the closed position to the open position.

[0034] In a third aspect, there is provided an interlocking system for a low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear, the switchgear comprising:

[0035] - a compartment;

[0036] - a door;

[0037] - a door handle; and

[0038] - a circuit breaker;

[0039] wherein the door permits access to the interior of the compartment;

[0040] wherein the door handle is used to open and close the door;

[0041] wherein the circuit breaker is located in the compartment;

[0042] wherein the door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position; and

[0043] wherein the interlocking system is configured such that:

[0044] when the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open; and

[0045] wherein when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the withdrawn configuration to the inserted configuration is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, in which it is locked against movement from the closed position to the open position.

[0046] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear, comprising:

[0047] - a compartment;

[0048] - Door;

[0049] - Door handle; and

[0050] - Circuit breaker.

[0051] The door allows access to the interior of the compartment. The door handle is used to open and close the door. The circuit breaker is located in the compartment. The door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. When the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-out configuration to a racked-in configuration is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, in which it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position. When the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open.

[0052] In an example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-in configuration to a racked-out configuration is configured to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration, in which it is not locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0053] In an example, the movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated.

[0054] In an example, the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0055] In an example, the switchgear includes an earthing switch and an earthing switch operating handle or rod. When the earthing switch operating handle or rod is inserted, the earthing switch is configured not to operate, and when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is not inserted, the earthing switch is configured to operate. The movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-out configuration to a racked-in configuration is configured to deactivate a lock, and the deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the earthing switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

[0056] In an example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated.

[0057] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-out configuration to a racked-in configuration is configured to activate a lock, and the activation of the lock is configured to prevent the earthing switch operating handle or rod from being inserted.

[0058] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-out configuration to a racked-in configuration is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0059] In an example, a switching device includes: a second compartment; a second door; and a second door handle. The second door allows access to the interior of the second compartment. The second door handle is used to open and close the second door. The second door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The earthing switch is configured to switch to an on state by using an earthing switch operating handle or rod, and the earthing switch is configured to switch to an off state by using an earthing switch operating handle or rod. When the second door handle is in the closed position, the second door is configured not to open, and when the second door handle is in the open position, the second door is configured to open. When the second door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to place the second door handle in a locked configuration, in which it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0060] In a fifth aspect, there is provided an interlocking system for a low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switching device, the switching device comprising:

[0061] - a compartment;

[0062] - a circuit breaker;

[0063] - an earthing switch; and

[0064] - an earthing switch operating handle or rod;

[0065] wherein the circuit breaker is located in the compartment; and

[0066] wherein the interlocking system is configured such that:

[0067] when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is inserted, the earthing switch is configured not to operate, and when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is not inserted, the earthing switch is configured to operate;

[0068] wherein the movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-in configuration to a racked-out configuration is configured to deactivate the lock; and

[0069] wherein the deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the earthing switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

[0070] In a sixth aspect, there is provided a low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switching device, comprising:

[0071] - a compartment;

[0072] - a circuit breaker;

[0073] - an earthing switch; and

[0074] - an earthing switch operating handle or rod.

[0075] The circuit breaker is located in a compartment. The earthing switch is configured to not operate when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is inserted, and the earthing switch is configured to operate when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is not inserted. The movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to deactivate the lock. The deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the earthing switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

[0076] In an example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated.

[0077] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to activate the lock, and the activation of the lock is configured to prevent the earthing switch operating handle or rod from being inserted.

[0078] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0079] In an example, the switchgear includes a door and a door handle. The door allows access to the interior of the compartment. The door handle is used to open and close the door. The door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The movement from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated. When the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured to not open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open.

[0080] In an example, the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0081] In an example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, where it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0082] In an example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration, where it is not locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0083] In a seventh aspect, there is provided an interlocking system for low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear, the switchgear comprising:

[0084] - a compartment;

[0085] - a door;

[0086] - a door handle;

[0087] - an earthing switch; and

[0088] - Earthing switch operating handle or rod;

[0089] wherein the door allows access to the interior of the compartment;

[0090] wherein the door handle is used to open and close the door;

[0091] wherein the door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position;

[0092] wherein the earthing switch is configured to be switched to the on state by using the earthing switch operating handle or rod, and the earthing switch is configured to be switched to the off state by using the earthing switch operating handle or rod; and

[0093] wherein the interlock system is configured such that:

[0094] when the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open; and

[0095] wherein when the door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, wherein it is locked against movement from the closed position to the open position.

[0096] In an eighth aspect, there is provided a low voltage, medium voltage or high voltage switchgear, comprising:

[0097] - A compartment;

[0098] - A door;

[0099] - A door handle;

[0100] - An earthing switch; and

[0101] - An earthing switch operating handle or rod.

[0102] The door allows access to the interior of the compartment. The door handle is used to open and close the door. The door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The earthing switch is configured to be switched to the on state by using the earthing switch operating handle or rod, and the earthing switch is configured to be switched to the off state by using the earthing switch operating handle or rod. When the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open. When the door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, wherein it is locked against movement from the closed position to the open position.

[0103] In an example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the earthing switch from the off state to the on state is configured to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration, wherein it is not locked against movement from the closed position to the open position.

[0104] In an example, the rotation of the grounding switch operating handle or rod is configured to transition the grounding switch from the closed state to the open state. An eccentric bearing or cam of the grounding switch operating handle or rod is configured to convert the rotation of the grounding switch operating handle or rod into a translational movement of a part of the linkage system. The linkage system is configured to engage with a door handle to place the door handle in a locked configuration.

[0105] In an example, a switchgear includes: a second compartment; a second door; a second door handle; and a circuit breaker. The second door allows access to the interior of the second compartment. The second door handle is used to open and close the second door. The circuit breaker is located in the second compartment. The second door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated. When the second door handle is in the closed position, the second door is configured not to open, and when the second door handle is in the open position, the second door is configured to open.

[0106] In an example, when the grounding switch operating handle or rod is inserted, the grounding switch is configured not to operate, and when the grounding switch operating handle or rod is not inserted, the grounding switch is configured to operate. The movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to deactivate a lock. The deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the grounding switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

[0107] In an example, the insertion of the grounding switch operating handle or rod is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration.

[0108] With reference to the embodiments described hereinafter, the above aspects and examples will become apparent and be elucidated. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0109] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments will be described with reference to the following drawings:

[0110] Figure 1 An example of a handle as part of a new interlock system is shown;

[0111] Figure 2 An example of a switchgear with an exemplary integrated interlock system is shown;

[0112] Figures 3 to 8 An example of an interlock system associated with a circuit breaker is shown; and

[0113] Figures 9 to 21 An example of an interlock system associated with a grounding switch is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0114] Figures 1 to 21An integrated interlock system for low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear having multiple different interlock system functionalities, and one or more low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear having one or more parts of the integrated interlock system.

[0115] Examples of interlock systems for low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear are described below. The switchgear includes compartments, doors, door handles and circuit breakers. Thus, in this example, the compartment is a circuit breaker compartment. The door allows access to the interior of the compartment. The door handle is used to open and close the door. The circuit breaker is located in the compartment. The door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The interlock system is configured such that:

[0116] · When the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open; and

[0117] · The movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated.

[0118] In the example, the movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to move a part of the coupling system away from the body part of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system is moved away from the body part of the door handle, the interlock in the circuit breaker cubicle is deactivated by the coupling system.

[0119] In the example, the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0120] In the example, the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to enable a part of the coupling system to move towards the body part of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system moves towards the body part of the door handle, the interlock in the circuit breaker cubicle is activated by the coupling system.

[0121] In the example, a spring-based system is configured to enable a part of the coupling system to move towards the body part of the door handle.

[0122] In the example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, where it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0123] In the example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to move a part of the coupling system towards the body part of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system moves towards the body part of the door handle, it is configured to engage with the door handle to place the door handle in a locked configuration.

[0124] In an example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-in configuration to the rack-out configuration is configured to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration, in which it is not locked to move from the closed position to the open position.

[0125] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-in configuration to the rack-out configuration is configured to move a part of the coupling system away from the body part of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system is moved away from the body part of the door handle, it is configured to separate from the door handle to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration.

[0126] In an example, the switchgear includes a grounding switch and a grounding switch operating handle or rod. The interlock system is configured such that:

[0127] · When the grounding switch operating handle or rod is inserted, the grounding switch is configured not to operate, and when the grounding switch operating handle or rod is not inserted, the grounding switch is configured to operate;

[0128] · The movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-in configuration to the rack-out configuration is configured to deactivate the lock, and

[0129] · The deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the grounding switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

[0130] In an example, the insertion of the grounding switch operating handle or rod is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration.

[0131] In an example, the insertion of the grounding switch operating handle or rod is configured to move a part of the coupling system that moves a locking piece, which is configured to prevent the circuit breaker from moving and place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration.

[0132] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-out configuration to the rack-in configuration is configured to activate the lock, and the activation of the lock is configured to prevent the grounding switch operating handle or rod from being inserted.

[0133] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-out configuration to the rack-in configuration is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0134] In an example, the switchgear includes a second compartment, a second door, and a second door handle. Thus, the second compartment can be, for example, a cable connection compartment. The second door allows access to the interior of the second compartment. The second door handle is used to open and close the second door. The second door handle is configured to move from the closed position to the open position. The grounding switch is configured to be switched to the on state by using the grounding switch operating handle or rod, and the grounding switch is configured to be switched to the off state by using the grounding switch operating handle or rod. The interlock system is configured such that:

[0135] · When the second door handle is in the closed position, the second door is configured not to open, and when the second door handle is in the open position, the second door is configured to open; and

[0136] · When the second door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the ground switch from the on state to the off state is configured to place the second door handle in a locked configuration, in which it is locked against movement from the closed position to the open position.

[0137] In an example, the transition of the ground switch from the on state to the off state is configured to move a part of the linkage system towards the body portion of the second door handle. When a part of the linkage system moves towards the body portion of the second door handle, it is configured to engage with the second door handle to place the second door handle in a locked configuration.

[0138] In an example, a spring-based system is configured to enable a part of the linkage system to move towards the body portion of the second door handle.

[0139] In an example, when the second door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the ground switch from the off state to the on state is configured to place the second door handle in an unlocked configuration, in which it is not locked against movement from the closed position to the open position.

[0140] In an example, the transition of the ground switch from the off state to the on state is configured to move a part of the linkage system away from the body portion of the second door handle. When a part of the linkage system is moved away from the body portion of the second door handle, it is configured to disengage from the second door handle to place the second door handle in an unlocked configuration.

[0141] In an example, the rotation of the ground switch operating handle or rod is configured to cause the ground switch to transition from the on state to the off state. The eccentric bearing or cam of the ground switch operating handle or rod is configured to convert the rotation of the ground switch operating handle or rod into a translational movement of a part of the linkage system. The linkage system is configured to engage with the second door handle to place the second door handle in a locked configuration.

[0142] Therefore, it is necessary that such an interlock system can be retrofitted to existing low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear.

[0143] However, low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear can be constructed from the start with an interlock system.

[0144] Examples of such low, medium or high voltage switchgear include compartments, doors, door handles and circuit breakers. The door allows access to the interior of the compartment. The door handle is used to open and close the door. The circuit breaker is located in the compartment. The door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position, and the movement from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated. When the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open.

[0145] In the example, the movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to move a part of the linkage system away from the body part of the door handle. When a part of the linkage system is moved away from the body part of the door handle, the interlock within the circuit breaker trolley is deactivated by the linkage system.

[0146] In the example, the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0147] In the example, the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to enable a part of the linkage system to move towards the body part of the door handle. When a part of the linkage system moves towards the body part of the door handle, the interlock within the circuit breaker trolley is activated by the linkage system.

[0148] In the example, a spring-based system is configured to enable a part of the linkage system to move towards the body part of the door handle.

[0149] In the example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-out configuration to the rack-in configuration is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, where it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0150] In the example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-out configuration to the rack-in configuration is configured to move a part of the linkage system towards the body part of the door handle. When a part of the linkage system moves towards the body part of the door handle, it is configured to engage with the door handle to place the door handle in a locked configuration.

[0151] In the example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-in configuration to the rack-out configuration is configured to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration, where it is not locked to move from the closed position to the open position.

[0152] In the example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-in configuration to the rack-out configuration is configured to move a part of the linkage system away from the body part of the door handle. When a part of the linkage system is moved away from the body part of the door handle, it is configured to disengage from the door handle to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration.

[0153] In an example, the switching device includes an earthing switch and an earthing switch operating handle or rod. When the earthing switch operating handle or rod is inserted, the earthing switch is configured not to operate, and when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is not inserted, the earthing switch is configured to operate. The movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to deactivate a lock. The deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the earthing switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

[0154] In an example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration.

[0155] In an example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to move a part of a linkage system that moves a locking piece, which is configured to prevent the circuit breaker from moving and to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration.

[0156] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to activate a lock. The activation of the lock is configured to prevent the earthing switch operating handle or rod from being inserted.

[0157] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0158] In an example, the switching device includes a second compartment, a second door, and a second door handle. The second door allows access to the interior of the second compartment. The second door handle is used to open and close the second door. The second door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The earthing switch is configured to switch to an on state by using the earthing switch operating handle or rod, and the earthing switch is configured to switch to an off state by using the earthing switch operating handle or rod. When the second door handle is in the closed position, the second door is configured not to open, and when the second door handle is in the open position, the second door is configured to open. When the second door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to place the second door handle in a locked configuration, in which it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0159] In an example, the transition of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to move a part of a linkage system towards a body portion of the second door handle. When a part of the linkage system moves towards the body portion of the second door handle, it is configured to engage with the second door handle to place the second door handle in a locked configuration.

[0160] In an example, a spring-based system is configured to enable a part of the linkage system to move towards the body portion of the second door handle.

[0161] In an example, when the second door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the ground switch from the open state to the closed state is configured to place the second door handle in an unlocked configuration, in which it is not locked to move from the closed position to the open position.

[0162] In an example, the transition of the ground switch from the open state to the closed state is configured to move a portion of the linkage system away from the body portion of the second door handle. When a portion of the linkage system is moved away from the body portion of the second door handle, it is configured to disengage from the second door handle to place the second door handle in an unlocked configuration.

[0163] In an example, the rotation of the ground switch operating handle or rod is configured to transition the ground switch from the closed state to the open state. The eccentric bearing or cam of the ground switch operating handle or rod is configured to convert the rotation of the ground switch operating handle or rod into a translational movement of a portion of the linkage system. The linkage system is configured to engage with the second door handle to place the second door handle in a locked configuration.

[0164] Examples of interlock systems for low-voltage, medium-voltage, or high-voltage switchgear are described below. The switchgear includes compartments, doors, door handles, and circuit breakers. The doors permit access to the interior of the compartments. The door handles are used to open and close the doors. The circuit breakers are located in the compartments. Thus, in this example, the compartments are circuit breaker compartments. The door handles are configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The interlock system is configured such that:

[0165] · When the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open; and

[0166] · When the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, in which it is locked against movement from the closed position to the open position.

[0167] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to move a portion of the linkage system toward the body portion of the door handle. When a portion of the linkage system moves toward the body portion of the door handle, it is configured to engage with the door handle to place the door handle in a locked configuration.

[0168] In an example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration, in which it is not locked to move from the closed position to the open position.

[0169] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to move a portion of the linkage system away from the body portion of the door handle. When a portion of the linkage system is moved away from the body portion of the door handle, it is configured to disengage from the door handle to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration.

[0170] In the example, the movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated.

[0171] In the example, the movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to move a part of the coupling system away from the body part of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system is moved away from the body part of the door handle, the interlock in the circuit breaker cubicle is deactivated by the coupling system.

[0172] In the example, the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0173] In the example, the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to enable a part of the coupling system to move towards the body part of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system moves towards the body part of the door handle, the interlock in the circuit breaker cubicle is activated by the coupling system.

[0174] In the example, the spring-based system is configured to enable a part of the coupling system to move towards the body part of the door handle.

[0175] In the example, the switchgear includes an earthing switch and an earthing switch operating handle or rod. The interlock system is configured such that:

[0176] · When the earthing switch operating handle or rod is inserted, the earthing switch is configured not to operate, and when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is not inserted, the earthing switch is configured to operate;

[0177] · The movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to deactivate the lock; and

[0178] · The deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the earthing switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

[0179] In the example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated.

[0180] In the example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to move a part of the coupling system, which moves a locking piece configured to prevent the circuit breaker from moving and places the circuit breaker in a locked configuration.

[0181] In the example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to activate the lock, and the activation of the lock is configured to prevent the earthing switch operating handle or rod from being inserted.

[0182] In the example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the withdrawn configuration to the inserted configuration is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0183] In the example, the switchgear includes a second compartment, a second door, and a second door handle. The second door allows access to the interior of the second compartment. The second door handle is used to open and close the second door. The second compartment can be, for example, a cable connection compartment. The second door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The earthing switch is configured to switch to the on state by using an earthing switch operating handle or rod, and the earthing switch is configured to switch to the off state by using an earthing switch operating handle or rod. The interlock system is configured such that:

[0184] · When the second door handle is in the closed position, the second door is configured not to open, and when the second door handle is in the open position, the second door is configured to open;

[0185] · When the second door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to place the second door handle in a locked configuration, in which it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0186] In the example, the transition of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to move a part of the coupling system towards the body portion of the second door handle. When a part of the coupling system moves towards the body portion of the second door handle, it is configured to engage with the second door handle to place the second door handle in a locked configuration.

[0187] In the example, the spring-based system is configured to enable a part of the coupling system to move towards the body portion of the second door handle.

[0188] In the example, when the second door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the earthing switch from the off state to the on state is configured to place the second door handle in an unlocked configuration, in which it is not locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0189] In the example, the transition of the earthing switch from the off state to the on state is configured to move a part of the coupling system away from the body portion of the second door handle. When a part of the coupling system is moved away from the body portion of the second door handle, it is configured to disengage from the second door handle to place the second door handle in an unlocked configuration.

[0190] In the example, the rotation of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to cause the earthing switch to switch from the on state to the off state, where the eccentric bearing or cam of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to convert the rotation of the earthing switch operating handle or rod into a translational movement of a part of the coupling system, and where the coupling system is configured to engage with the second door handle to place the second door handle in a locked configuration.

[0191] Therefore, it is necessary that such an interlocking system can be retrofitted to existing low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear.

[0192] However, low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear can be constructed from the start with an interlocking system.

[0193] Examples of such low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear include compartments, doors, door handles and circuit breakers. The door allows access to the interior of the compartment. The door handle is used to open and close the door. The circuit breaker is located in the compartment. The door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. When the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-out configuration to a racked-in configuration is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, in which it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position. When the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open.

[0194] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-out configuration to a racked-in configuration is configured to move a part of a coupling system towards a body portion of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system moves towards the body portion of the door handle, it is configured to engage with the door handle to place the door handle in a locked configuration.

[0195] In an example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-in configuration to a racked-out configuration is configured to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration, in which it is not locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0196] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-in configuration to a racked-out configuration is configured to move a part of the coupling system away from the body portion of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system is moved away from the body portion of the door handle, it is configured to disengage from the door handle to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration.

[0197] In an example, the movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated.

[0198] In an example, the movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to move a part of the coupling system away from the body portion of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system is moved away from the body portion of the door handle, the interlock within the circuit breaker trolley is deactivated by the coupling system.

[0199] In an example, the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0200] In the example, the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to enable a part of the coupling system to move towards the body part of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system moves towards the body part of the door handle, the interlock inside the circuit breaker handcart is actuated by the coupling system.

[0201] In the example, the spring-based system is configured to enable a part of the coupling system to move towards the body part of the door handle.

[0202] In the example, the switchgear includes an earthing switch and an earthing switch operating handle or rod. When the earthing switch operating handle or rod is inserted, the earthing switch is configured not to operate, and when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is not inserted, the earthing switch is configured to operate. The movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to deactivate the lock. The deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the earthing switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

[0203] In the example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated.

[0204] In the example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to move a part of the coupling system that moves a locking piece, which is configured to prevent the circuit breaker from moving and to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration.

[0205] In the example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to activate the lock, and the activation of the lock is configured to prevent the earthing switch operating handle or rod from being inserted.

[0206] In the example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0207] In the example, the switchgear includes a second compartment, a second door, and a second door handle. The second door allows access to the interior of the second compartment. The second door handle is used to open and close the second door. The second door handle is configured to move from the closed position to the open position. The earthing switch is configured to switch to the on state by using the earthing switch operating handle or rod, and the earthing switch is configured to switch to the off state by using the earthing switch operating handle or rod. When the second door handle is in the closed position, the second door is configured not to open, and when the second door handle is in the open position, the second door is configured to open. When the second door handle is in the closed position, the switching of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to place the second door handle in a locked configuration, in which it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0208] In an example, the transition of the earthing switch from the closed state to the open state is configured to move a part of the coupling system towards the body part of the second door handle. When a part of the coupling system moves towards the body part of the second door handle, it is configured to engage with the second door handle to place the second door handle in a locked configuration.

[0209] In an example, a spring-based system is configured to enable a part of the coupling system to move towards the body part of the second door handle.

[0210] In an example, when the second door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the earthing switch from the open state to the closed state is configured to place the second door handle in an unlocked configuration, in which it is not locked to move from the closed position to the open position.

[0211] In an example, the transition of the earthing switch from the open state to the closed state is configured to move a part of the coupling system away from the body part of the second door handle. When a part of the coupling system is moved away from the body part of the second door handle, it is configured to disengage from the second door handle to place the second door handle in an unlocked configuration.

[0212] In an example, the rotation of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to cause the earthing switch to transition from the closed state to the open state. The eccentric bearing or cam of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to convert the rotation of the earthing switch operating handle or rod into a translational movement of a part of the coupling system. The coupling system is configured to engage with the second door handle to place the second door handle in a locked configuration.

[0213] Examples of interlock systems for low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear are described below. The switchgear includes a compartment, a circuit breaker, an earthing switch and an earthing switch operating handle or rod. The circuit breaker is located in the compartment. Thus, in this example, the compartment is a circuit breaker compartment. The interlock system is configured such that:

[0214] · When the earthing switch operating handle or rod is inserted, the earthing switch is configured not to operate, and when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is not inserted, the earthing switch is configured to operate;

[0215] · The movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to deactivate the lock; and

[0216] · The deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the earthing switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

[0217] In an example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated.

[0218] In an example, the insertion of a grounding switch operating handle or rod is configured to move a part of a linkage system that moves a locking tab configured to prevent movement of a circuit breaker and place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration.

[0219] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-out configuration to a racked-in configuration is configured to activate a lock, and the activation of the lock is configured to prevent insertion of a grounding switch operating handle or rod.

[0220] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-out configuration to a racked-in configuration is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0221] In an example, the switchgear includes a door and a door handle. The door allows access to the interior of the compartment. The door handle is used to open and close the door. The door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. An interlock system is configured such that:

[0222] · The movement of the handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration;

[0223] · In the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated; and

[0224] · When the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open.

[0225] In an example, the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and wherein in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0226] In an example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-out configuration to a racked-in configuration is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, where it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0227] In an example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from a racked-in configuration to a racked-out configuration is configured to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration, where it is not locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0228] Therefore, it is necessary that such an interlock system can be retrofitted to existing low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear.

[0229] However, low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear can be constructed from the start with an interlock system.

[0230] Examples of such low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear include compartments, circuit breakers, earthing switches and earthing switch operating handles or rods. The circuit breaker is located in the compartment. When the earthing switch operating handle or rod is inserted, the earthing switch is configured not to operate, and when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is not inserted, the earthing switch is configured to operate. The movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to deactivate the lock. The deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the earthing switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

[0231] In the example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated.

[0232] In the example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to move a part of the coupling system that moves a locking piece configured to prevent the circuit breaker from moving and to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration.

[0233] In the example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to activate the lock, and the activation of the lock is configured to prevent the earthing switch operating handle or rod from being inserted.

[0234] In the example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0235] In the example, the switchgear includes a door and a door handle. The door allows access to the interior of the compartment. The door handle is used to open and close the door. The door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated. When the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open.

[0236] In the example, the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0237] In the example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, where it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0238] In the example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration, where it is not locked to move from the closed position to the open position.

[0239] An example of an interlock system for low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear is described below. The switchgear includes compartments, doors, door handles, earthing switches and earthing switch operating handles or rods. The door allows access to the interior of the compartment. The compartment can be, for example, a cable connection compartment. The door handle is used to open and close the door. The door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The earthing switch is configured to be switched to an on state by using the earthing switch operating handle or rod, and the earthing switch is configured to be switched to an off state by using the earthing switch operating handle or rod. The interlock system is configured such that:

[0240] · when the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open; and

[0241] · when the door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, in which it is locked against movement from the closed position to the open position.

[0242] In the example, the transition of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to move a part of the coupling system towards the body part of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system moves towards the body part of the door handle, it is configured to engage with the door handle to place the door handle in a locked configuration.

[0243] In the example, a spring-based system is configured to enable a part of the coupling system to move towards the body part of the door handle.

[0244] In the example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the earthing switch from the off state to the on state is configured to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration, in which it is not locked against movement from the closed position to the open position.

[0245] In the example, the transition of the earthing switch from the off state to the on state is configured to move a part of the coupling system away from the body part of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system is moved away from the body part of the door handle, it is configured to disengage from the door handle to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration.

[0246] In the example, the rotation of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to switch the earthing switch from the on state to the off state. The eccentric bearing or cam of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to convert the rotation of the earthing switch operating handle or rod into a translational movement of a part of the coupling system. The coupling system is configured to engage with the door handle to place the door handle in a locked configuration.

[0247] In the example, the switchgear includes a second compartment, a second door, a second door handle, and a circuit breaker. The second door allows access to the interior of the second compartment. The second door handle is used to open and close the second door. The circuit breaker is located in the second compartment. The second compartment can be a circuit breaker compartment. The second door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The interlock system is configured such that:

[0248] · The movement of the second door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration;

[0249] · In the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated; and

[0250] · When the second door handle is in the closed position, the second door is configured not to open, and when the second door handle is in the open position, the second door is configured to open.

[0251] In the example, the movement of the second door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to move a part of the linkage system away from the body part of the second door handle. When a part of the linkage system is moved away from the body part of the second door handle, the interlock in the circuit breaker cubicle is deactivated by the linkage system.

[0252] In the example, the movement of the second door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0253] In the example, the movement of the second door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to enable a part of the linkage system to move towards the body part of the second door handle. When a part of the linkage system moves towards the body part of the second door handle, the interlock in the circuit breaker cubicle is activated by the linkage system.

[0254] In the example, a spring-based system is configured to enable a part of the linkage system to move towards the body part of the second door handle.

[0255] In the example, when the second door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to place the second door handle in a locked configuration, in which it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0256] In the example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to move a part of the linkage system towards the body part of the second door handle. When a part of the linkage system moves towards the body part of the second door handle, it is configured to engage with the second door handle to place the door handle in a locked configuration.

[0257] In an example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-in configuration to the rack-out configuration is configured to place the second door handle in an unlocked configuration, where it is not locked to move from the closed position to the open position.

[0258] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-in configuration to the rack-out configuration is configured to move a part of the coupling system away from the body part of the second door handle. When a part of the coupling system is moved away from the body part of the second door handle, it is configured to disengage from the door handle to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration.

[0259] In an example, when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is inserted, the earthing switch is configured not to operate, and when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is not inserted, the earthing switch is configured to operate. The movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-in configuration to the rack-out configuration is configured to deactivate the lock, and the deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the earthing switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

[0260] In an example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration.

[0261] In an example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to move a part of the coupling system that moves a locking piece, which is configured to prevent the circuit breaker from moving and to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration.

[0262] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-out configuration to the rack-in configuration is configured to activate the lock, and the activation of the lock is configured to prevent the earthing switch operating handle or rod from being inserted.

[0263] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-out configuration to the rack-in configuration is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0264] Therefore, it is necessary that such an interlocking system can be retrofitted to existing low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear.

[0265] However, low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear can be constructed with an interlocking system from the start.

[0266] Examples of such low, medium or high voltage switchgear include compartments, doors, door handles, earthing switches and earthing switch operating handles or rods. The door allows access to the interior of the compartment. The door handle is used to open and close the door. The door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position. The earthing switch is configured to be switched to the on state by using the earthing switch operating handle or rod, and the earthing switch is configured to be switched to the off state by using the earthing switch operating handle or rod. When the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open. When the door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, in which it is locked against movement from the closed position to the open position.

[0267] In an example, the transition of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to move a part of the coupling system towards the body part of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system moves towards the body part of the door handle, it is configured to engage with the door handle to place the door handle in a locked configuration.

[0268] In an example, a spring-based system is configured to enable a part of the coupling system to move towards the body part of the door handle.

[0269] In an example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the transition of the earthing switch from the off state to the on state is configured to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration, in which it is not locked against movement from the closed position to the open position.

[0270] In an example, the transition of the earthing switch from the off state to the on state is configured to move a part of the coupling system away from the body part of the door handle. When a part of the coupling system is moved away from the body part of the door handle, it is configured to disengage from the door handle to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration.

[0271] In an example, the rotation of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to switch the earthing switch from the on state to the off state. The eccentric bearing or cam of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to convert the rotation of the earthing switch operating handle or rod into a translational movement of a part of the coupling system. The coupling system is configured to engage with the door handle to place the door handle in a locked configuration.

[0272] In the example, the switchgear includes a second compartment, a second door, a second door handle, and a circuit breaker. The second door allows access to the interior of the second compartment. The second door handle is used to open and close the second door. The circuit breaker is located in the second compartment. The second door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position, and the movement from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated. When the second door handle is in the closed position, the second door is configured not to open, and when the second door handle is in the open position, the second door is configured to open.

[0273] In the example, the movement of the second door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to move a part of the linkage system away from the body portion of the second door handle. When a part of the linkage system is moved away from the body portion of the second door handle, the interlock within the circuit breaker trolley is deactivated by the linkage system.

[0274] In the example, the movement of the second door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to place the circuit breaker in an unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0275] In the example, the movement of the second door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to enable a part of the linkage system to move towards the body portion of the second door handle. When a part of the linkage system moves towards the body portion of the second door handle, the interlock within the circuit breaker trolley is activated by the linkage system.

[0276] In the example, the spring-based system is configured to enable a part of the linkage system to move towards the body portion of the second door handle.

[0277] In the example, when the second door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to place the second door handle in a locked configuration, where it is locked from moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0278] In the example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to move a part of the linkage system towards the body portion of the second door handle. When a part of the linkage system moves towards the body portion of the second door handle, it is configured to engage with the second door handle to place the door handle in a locked configuration.

[0279] In the example, when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to place the second door handle in an unlocked configuration, where it is not locked to move from the closed position to the open position.

[0280] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to move a portion of the coupling system away from the body portion of the second door handle. When a portion of the coupling system is moved away from the body portion of the second door handle, it is configured to disengage from the door handle to place the door handle in the unlocked configuration.

[0281] In an example, when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is inserted, the earthing switch is configured not to operate, and when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is not inserted, the earthing switch is configured to operate. The movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-in configuration to the racked-out configuration is configured to deactivate the lock. The deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the earthing switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

[0282] In an example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to place the circuit breaker in the locked configuration.

[0283] In an example, the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to move a portion of the coupling system that moves a locking piece that is configured to prevent movement of the circuit breaker and place the circuit breaker in the locked configuration.

[0284] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to activate the lock, and the activation of the lock is configured to prevent the earthing switch operating handle or rod from being inserted.

[0285] In an example, the movement of the circuit breaker from the racked-out configuration to the racked-in configuration is configured to place the circuit breaker in the unlocked configuration, and in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated.

[0286] The interlock system has been described with respect to low-voltage, medium-voltage, or high-voltage switchgear, but is also useful in other situations where access to a compartment needs to be controlled, such as for controlling equipment.

[0287] The interlock system for low-voltage, medium-voltage, or high-voltage switchgear and low-voltage, medium-voltage, or high-voltage switchgear having such an integrated interlock system are discussed in more detail, where reference is again made to the drawings.

[0288] Figure 1Shows an example of a handle used in a new interlocking system. The left figure shows that the handle has been operated to open the door of the compartment. Thus the door is not fixed and the handle is unlocked. However, the interlocking system has ensured that the circuit breaker (CB) or the earthing switch (ES) is locked and cannot be operated. The second figure from the left indicates that the door has been closed (fixed), however the handle is in an open and unlocked state. Again, the interlocking system has ensured that the circuit breaker or the earthing switch is locked and cannot be operated. In the third figure from the left, the handle is in the closed state but has not been locked. The circuit breaker or switch has now been placed in an unlocked state by the interlocking system and can be operated. As shown in the figures, closing the handle activates a push rod which is connected to the coupling system of the interlocking system, causing the circuit breaker or the earthing switch to unlock and they can be activated or operated. The right figure shows that the handle is in the closed state, but now the handle has been locked and cannot be opened. What has happened is that the moving element within the switch handle has entered a state which may be considered dangerous, for example the circuit breaker has been racked to a position where it can now be operated, and this activates the coupling system, causing the push rod to be pushed into the handle and then locking the handle.

[0289] Therefore, Figure 1 The respective figures show the stages of handle operation. The interlocking system actually separates the closing and fixing of the door to prevent internal arcing and the unlocking movement of the interlock. The interlocking system only obtains information from the handle after the door has been correctly fixed (today the interlock only obtains information from the door position itself - not connected to the handle in any way). Another feature of the new interlock and the new safety handle is that the interlocking system prevents the opening of the door by blocking the handle rather than the door itself.

[0290] Figure 2 Shows the complete interlocking system within the switchgear.

[0291] Figures 3 to 7 Shows the movement of the interlocking system for locking and unlocking the CB. Figure 3 Is the overall view, Figures 4 to 7 Shows Figure 3 An extended portion of the highlighted area in, and actually shows the interaction between the CB door handle and the CB trolley lock. If the handle is "snapped in", the pin inside the handle will push the horizontal slider. This movement is transmitted downwards in the figure, which releases the locking piece, thus deactivating / activating the interlock already existing inside the CB trolley. If the handle is "snapped out", the vertical slider under the spring will move upwards and move the locking piece out and lock the CB trolley.

[0292] Figure 8Shows the movement of the locking handle to lock the door and actually shows the interaction between the CB trolley and the CB door handle lock. An inward CB movement will rotate the lever, which will push out the slider, thus locking the handle. An outward movement of the CB in the opposite direction will release the handle, so it can be unlatched and the door can be opened.

[0293] Figures 9 to 12 Shows the interlock between the earthing switch (ES) operation and the CB and actually shows the interaction between the ES operating handle or rod and the CB trolley lock. Figure 9 Is an overall view, Figure 10 and 11 Shows Figure 9 An enlarged view of the highlighted area in Figure 12 and shows representative interlock features. The interlock between the earthing switch and the circuit breaker has two functions. If the ES operating handle is inserted, the movement of the CB is locked, and if the CB is not fully rocked out of the contacts, the insertion of the ES operating handle is prevented. Inserting the ES operating handle will move the lever and the vertical slider upwards, thus pushing out the locking piece and preventing the CB. At the same time, the locking pin is also pushed out. This can only happen when the CB is rocked out and does not obstruct the locking pin. Otherwise, the outward movement of the locking pin will be blocked by the CB and the ES operating handle cannot be inserted.

[0294] Figure 13 and 14 Shows other details related to the interaction between the ES operating handle or rod and the CB trolley lock. Hidden parts are shown. As shown in Image 1 in Figure 13 , the earthing switch is in the off state and the operating lever or rod is out (also known as the earthing switch operating handle or rod). As shown in Image 2 in Figure 13 , the indicator and the slider are pushed by inserting the operating lever, and the previously explained locking pin and locking piece are out, but the ES is still in the off state. As shown in Image 3 in Figure 13 , the ES is switched on by rotating the operating lever. As shown in Image 4 in Figure 13 , after removing the operating lever, the slider will remain outside the housing (the interlock is still activated and the CB cannot be rocked in), but the indicator will be pushed back by the spring, so it is visible from the outside and the status of the ES will be clear to the operator. The housing also has two stoppers that only allow correct rotation, as shown in Figure 14 . Moreover, the keyhole on the housing only allows rotation when the operating lever is fully inserted. Full insertion is also covered by the next keyhole in the frame (as shown in Figure 15 , which shows that the operating lever must be fully inserted to be able to rotate because the first section has a hexagonal cross-section with a circular neck facing forward).

[0295] Figure 16 Shows the CC door handle and actually shows the interaction between the ES rod position and the CC door handle lock. This actually operates in the same way as the CB door, but is initiated differently. The ES is switched on or off by the rotation of a hexagonal shaft. There is a cam on the shaft which moves a vertical slider and this is transmitted to a horizontal slider via a lever, thus locking or unlocking the handle. In Figure 16 , the distance ""XXX mm"" can be, for example, 8 mm, but other distances are possible, and the distance ""YYY mm"" can be, for example, 10 mm, but other distances are possible.

[0296] Figures 17 to 21 Shows the prevention of the insertion of the ES operating handle which again reacts to the position of the handle. Actually shows the interaction between the CC door handle and the earthing switch (ES) rod lock. Figure 17 Shows an overall view, Figures 18 to 21 Shows Figure 17 An enlarged picture of the specific feature shown. The new feature is that the blocking pin is hidden behind the sliding indicator and since the hexagonal shaft is hidden, the operating handle cannot even be partially inserted onto the shaft and thus the ES can be operated.

[0297] The new interlocking system and low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear having such an integrated interlocking system prevent dangerous situations from occurring.

[0298] The interlocking system obtains information from the handle and not just the door. With the interlocking system having a new safety handle, the door is protected from internal arcing before the interlock can be unlocked. Also the safety handle is blocked and hidden and excessive force cannot be applied, not just the slider inside the door. This is different from today's door handles where even if the door is blocked, it can always be touched and operated.

[0299] In terms of the earthing switch (ES) and circuit breaker (CB) interlock, the new technology provides that the interlock is initiated by the ""insertion / activation"" of the handle itself (today you need to open the cover and then you can insert the ES operating handle). Also, the housing hides the blocking pin behind an inaccessible sliding indicator and if activated, you will not be able to insert the ES handle - not even partially. And there is also an integrated stopper for the correct rotation of only the ES handle.

[0300] Although the present invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and the foregoing description, such illustration and description should be considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive. The present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations of the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention by studying the drawings, the disclosure and the dependent claims.

Claims

1. An interlock system for low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage switchgear, the switchgear comprising: - a compartment; - a door; - a door handle; and - a circuit breaker; wherein the door allows access to the interior of the compartment; wherein the door handle is used to open and close the door; wherein the circuit breaker is located in the compartment; wherein the door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position; and wherein the interlock system is configured such that: when the door handle is in the closed position, the door is configured not to open, and when the door handle is in the open position, the door is configured to open; wherein the movement of the door handle from the closed position to the open position is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and wherein in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated; wherein the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to enable the circuit breaker to be placed in an unlocked configuration, wherein the movement of the door handle from the open position to the closed position is configured to activate a push rod of a coupling system connected to the interlock system so that the circuit breaker can be placed in an unlocked configuration, and wherein in the unlocked configuration, the circuit breaker can be operated; wherein when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from a rack-out configuration to a rack-in configuration is configured to place the door handle in a locked configuration, wherein the door handle is locked and cannot move from the closed position to the open position.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein when the door handle is in the closed position, the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-in configuration to the rack-out configuration is configured to place the door handle in an unlocked configuration, wherein the door handle is not locked to move from the closed position to the open position.

3. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the switchgear includes an earthing switch and an earthing switch operating handle or rod, wherein when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is inserted, the earthing switch is configured to operate, and when the earthing switch operating handle or rod is not inserted, the earthing switch is configured not to operate, wherein the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-out configuration to the rack-in configuration is configured to deactivate a lock, and wherein the deactivation of the lock is configured to enable the earthing switch operating handle or rod to be inserted.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the insertion of the earthing switch operating handle or rod is configured to place the circuit breaker in a locked configuration, and wherein in the locked configuration, the circuit breaker cannot be operated.

5. The system according to claim 3, wherein the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-out configuration to the rack-in configuration is configured to activate the lock, and wherein the activation of the lock is configured to prevent the earthing switch operating handle or rod from being inserted.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the movement of the circuit breaker from the rack-out configuration to the rack-in configuration is configured to place the circuit breaker in the unlocked configuration.

7. The system according to claim 3, wherein the switchgear includes: - A second compartment; - A second door; and - A second door handle; wherein the second door permits access to the interior of the second compartment; wherein the second door handle is used to open and close the second door; wherein the second door handle is configured to move from a closed position to an open position; wherein the earthing switch is configured to switch to an on state by utilising the earthing switch operating handle or rod, and the earthing switch is configured to switch to an off state by utilising the earthing switch operating handle or rod; wherein when the second door handle is in the closed position, the second door is configured not to open, and when the second door handle is in the open position, the second door is configured to open; and wherein when the second door handle is in the closed position, the switching of the earthing switch from the on state to the off state is configured to place the second door handle in a locked configuration, wherein the second door handle is locked against movement from the closed position to the open position.

8. A low - voltage, medium - voltage or high - voltage switchgear comprising an interlocking system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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