Circuit protection switches and electrical equipment

Abstract

This disclosure provides a circuit protection switch, belonging to the field of electrical equipment. The circuit protection switch includes a base, a conductive sheet assembly, a button, and a heart-shaped groove mechanism. The conductive sheet assembly includes a first stationary contact and a bimetallic strip. The first stationary contact is connected to the base, one end of the bimetallic strip is connected to the base, and the other end is opposite to the first stationary contact. The button is located on the side of the bimetallic strip away from the first stationary contact. The heart-shaped groove mechanism is located between the bimetallic strip and the button. A lever is connected to the heart-shaped groove mechanism and the bimetallic strip, used to separate or contact the bimetallic strip with the first stationary contact during button pressing. By pressing the switch, the on / off state of the circuit can be changed. Furthermore, because the bimetallic strip can deform under circuit overload, thereby separating from the first stationary contact and cutting off the circuit, the circuit protection switch can not only control the on / off state of the circuit via the button, but also cut off the circuit under overload conditions, preventing circuit damage due to overload.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of electrical equipment, and in particular to a circuit protection switch and electrical equipment. Background Technology

[0002] A circuit protection switch is a switching device that is triggered by pressing. By pressing the button, the circuit can be switched between open and closed states.

[0003] The circuit protection switch has a simple structure, containing a stationary contact and a moving contact. The moving contact moves when the button is pressed. When the button is in the released state, the moving contact separates from the stationary contact, cutting off the circuit. When the button is in the pressed state, the moving contact contacts the stationary contact, connecting the circuit.

[0004] Since the on / off state of the moving contact is controlled by a button, it cannot provide protection against circuit overload. Therefore, in order to prevent circuit overload, it is usually necessary to install an overload protector or fuse in the circuit, which leads to an increase in the number of components in the circuit, an increase in soldering points, and a more complex circuit. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure provides a circuit protection switch and electrical device capable of preventing circuit overload. The technical solution is as follows:

[0006] On one hand, embodiments of this disclosure provide a circuit protection switch, which includes a base, a conductive sheet assembly, a button, a heart-shaped groove mechanism, and a lever;

[0007] The conductive sheet assembly includes a first stationary contact and a bimetallic sheet. The first stationary contact is connected to the base, and one end of the bimetallic sheet is connected to the base, while the other end is opposite to the first stationary contact.

[0008] The button is located on the side of the bimetallic strip away from the first stationary contact piece;

[0009] The heart-shaped groove mechanism is located between the bimetallic strip and the button, and is connected to the button, for locking the button in a pop-up state or a pressed state;

[0010] The paddle is connected to the heart-shaped groove mechanism and the bimetallic strip, and is used to separate or contact the bimetallic strip with the first stationary contact piece during the pressing of the button.

[0011] Optionally, the paddle is configured to rotate in a first direction when the button is pressed in the pop-up state, so that the bimetallic strip contacts the first stationary contact piece;

[0012] When the button is pressed, it rotates in the first direction to make the bimetallic strip contact the first stationary contact piece, or rotates in the second direction to separate the bimetallic strip from the first stationary contact piece. The second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0013] Optionally, the heart-shaped groove mechanism includes a protrusion and a connecting rod. The bottom surface of the protrusion is connected to the base, and the top surface has a track groove. One end of the connecting rod has a bent portion located in the track groove, and the other end is connected to the button.

[0014] The paddle is rotatably connected to the protrusion. When the button is pressed, the bent part moves along the track groove to drive the paddle to rotate.

[0015] Optionally, along the first direction, the trajectory groove has a first inflection point, a second inflection point, a third inflection point, and a fourth inflection point;

[0016] When the bent portion is located at the first inflection point, the button is in the pop-up state, and the bimetallic strip is separated from the first stationary contact piece;

[0017] When the bent portion is located at the second inflection point, the bimetallic sheet contacts the first stationary contact piece;

[0018] When the bent portion is located at the third inflection point, the button is in the pressed state;

[0019] When the bent portion is located at the fourth inflection point, the bimetallic sheet separates from the first stationary contact piece.

[0020] Optionally, the connection point between the paddle and the protrusion is located on the side of the third inflection point near the bimetallic strip, and between the second inflection point and the fourth inflection point.

[0021] Optionally, the paddle includes a paddle part and a main body part, the paddle part being connected to the main body part and the bimetallic strip respectively, the main body part being opposite to and connected to the top surface of the protrusion, and the main body part having an opening that matches the track groove, the opening being fitted over the bent part.

[0022] Optionally, the rotation axis of the main body is located on the side of the track groove and the opening closer to the bimetallic sheet;

[0023] The inner wall of the opening has a tapered protrusion near the rotation axis. The tapered protrusion has a first guide sidewall and a second guide sidewall. When the intersection of the first guide sidewall and the second guide sidewall is located on the side of the interface near the fourth inflection point, and the button is pressed, the paddle rotates along the first direction. The interface is the plane where the rotation axis and the third inflection point are located. When the intersection of the first guide sidewall and the second guide sidewall is located on the side of the interface near the second inflection point, and the button is pressed, the paddle rotates along the second direction.

[0024] Optionally, the end of the actuating part away from the main body has a latch, which engages with the bimetallic strip.

[0025] Optionally, the button includes a keycap and a light-emitting structure, the light-emitting structure being located on the side of the keycap near the heart-shaped groove mechanism. The conductive sheet assembly further includes a second stationary contact piece connected to the base. The circuit protection switch further includes a first elastic conductive element and a second elastic conductive element. The first elastic conductive element is located between the bimetallic strip and the button, and is connected to the bimetallic strip and the light-emitting structure respectively. The second elastic conductive element is located between the second stationary contact piece and the button, and is connected to the second stationary contact piece and the light-emitting structure respectively.

[0026] Optionally, the first elastic conductive element and the second elastic conductive element are located on opposite sides of the heart-shaped groove mechanism.

[0027] Optionally, the light-emitting structure includes a circuit board and a light-emitting device. The circuit board is located on the side of the keycap close to the heart-shaped groove mechanism, and the light-emitting device is located on the side of the circuit board close to the keycap. The first elastic conductive element and the second elastic conductive element are connected to the side of the circuit board away from the keycap.

[0028] Optionally, the button further includes a light guide, the keycap has a light-transmitting hole, the light guide is located in the light-transmitting hole and is opposite to the light-emitting device.

[0029] On the other hand, embodiments of this disclosure also provide an electrical device that includes a circuit protection switch as described in the preceding aspect.

[0030] The beneficial effects of the technical solutions provided in this disclosure include at least the following:

[0031] By incorporating a heart-shaped groove mechanism and a bimetallic strip into the circuit protection switch, with the heart-shaped groove mechanism connected to the button and the lever connected to both the mechanism and the bimetallic strip, pressing the switch allows the lever to separate or make contact with the first stationary contact, thus changing the circuit's on / off state. Furthermore, because the bimetallic strip can deform under circuit overload, separating from the first stationary contact and cutting off the circuit, the circuit protection switch not only controls the circuit's on / off state via the button but also cuts off the circuit under overload conditions, preventing damage caused by overload. Attached Figure Description

[0032] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0034] Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0035] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0036] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the state of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0037] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the state of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0038] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the state of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0039] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the state of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0040] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0041] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the state of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0042] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the state of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0043] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a bimetallic sheet provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0044] Figure 12 This is an exploded view of a button provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0045] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used herein shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” and similar terms used in this patent application specification and claims do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Similarly, the terms “an” or “a” and similar terms do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. The terms “comprising” or “including” and similar terms mean that the element or object preceding “comprising” or “including” encompasses the element or object listed following “comprising” or “including” and its equivalents, and do not exclude other elements or objects. The terms “connected” or “linked” and similar terms are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but can include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. The terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “right,” etc., are used only to indicate relative positional relationships, and these relative positional relationships may change accordingly when the absolute position of the described object changes.

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 1 As shown, the circuit protection switch includes a switch body 100 and a button 30. The button 30 is connected to the switch body 100, and the button 30 can be pressed down or released relative to the switch body 100.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, the switch body 100 includes a base 10, a conductive sheet assembly 20, a heart-shaped groove mechanism 40, and a lever 43.

[0049] The base 10 includes a first housing 11 and a second housing 12, which are fastened together to form a receiving space to accommodate the conductive sheet assembly 20, the heart-shaped groove mechanism 40 and the paddle 43. The base 10 provides the corresponding mounting base and insulation protection for the button 30, the conductive sheet assembly 20, the heart-shaped groove mechanism 40 and the paddle 43.

[0050] The conductive sheet assembly 20 includes a first stationary contact 21 and a bimetallic strip 22. The first stationary contact 21 is connected to the base 10. One end of the bimetallic strip 22 is connected to the base 10, and the other end is opposite to the first stationary contact 21.

[0051] Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 2 As shown, the first stationary contact 21 has a stationary contact 211 opposite to the bimetallic strip 22, and the bimetallic strip 22 has a moving contact 221 opposite to the first stationary contact 21. When the bimetallic strip 22 contacts the first stationary contact 21, the moving contact 221 contacts the stationary contact 211, thus connecting the circuit. When the bimetallic strip 22 separates from the first stationary contact 21, the moving contact 221 separates from the stationary contact 211, thus disconnecting the circuit.

[0052] For example, both the stationary contact 211 and the moving contact 221 are silver contacts. Metallic silver has excellent conductivity, which makes the resistance between the stationary contact 211 and the moving contact 221 low, thus avoiding the danger caused by excessive temperature at the contact position of the stationary contact 211 and the moving contact 221.

[0053] A portion of the first stationary contact 21 extends relative to the base 10 to facilitate the connection of wires. A connecting metal piece 23 is connected to the end of the bimetallic strip 22 that is connected to the base 10. For example, the bimetallic strip 22 and the connecting metal piece 23 are connected by a copper rivet 231. A portion of the connecting metal piece 23 extends relative to the base 10 to facilitate the connection of wires. For example, the first stationary contact 21 and the bimetallic strip 22 are connected in series in the live wire. The portion of the first stationary contact 21 outside the base 10 is connected to the live wire, and the connecting metal piece 23 is connected to the wire connected to the appliance.

[0054] Button 30 is located on the side of bimetallic strip 22 away from the first stationary contact 21. Heart-shaped groove mechanism 40 is located between bimetallic strip 22 and button 30, and is connected to button 30. Heart-shaped groove mechanism 40 is used to lock button 30 in either a pop-up or pressed state. When button 30 is in the pressed state, pressing and releasing it will cause button 30 to pop up. If button 30 is pressed again and released, heart-shaped groove mechanism 40 will lock button 30, preventing it from popping up and keeping it in the pressed state.

[0055] The paddle 43 is connected to the heart-shaped groove mechanism 40 and the bimetallic strip 22, and is used to separate or contact the bimetallic strip 22 with the first stationary contact piece 21 during the pressing of the button 30.

[0056] By incorporating a heart-shaped groove mechanism and a bimetallic strip into the circuit protection switch, with the heart-shaped groove mechanism connected to the button and the lever connected to both the mechanism and the bimetallic strip, pressing the switch allows the lever to separate or make contact with the first stationary contact, thus changing the circuit's on / off state. Furthermore, because the bimetallic strip can deform under circuit overload, separating from the first stationary contact and cutting off the circuit, the circuit protection switch not only controls the circuit's on / off state via the button but also cuts off the circuit under overload conditions, preventing damage caused by overload.

[0057] In this embodiment, the paddle 43 is configured to rotate in a first direction when the button 30 is in the pop-up state and is pressed, so that the bimetallic strip 22 contacts the first stationary contact 21; or rotate in a second direction when the button 30 is in the pressed state and is pressed, so that the bimetallic strip 22 contacts the first stationary contact 21, or rotate in a second direction to separate the bimetallic strip 22 from the first stationary contact 21, wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0058] In other words, when the circuit is open, pressing button 30 to close the circuit protection switch causes the lever 43 to rotate, driving the bimetallic strip 22 to contact the first stationary contact 21, thus connecting the circuit. When the circuit is connected, pressing button 30 to open the circuit protection switch causes the lever 43 to rotate in the opposite direction, driving the bimetallic strip 22 to separate from the first stationary contact 21, thus cutting off the circuit. If the circuit is disconnected due to overload, pressing button 30 causes the lever 43 to rotate, resetting the bimetallic strip 22 and restoring contact between it and the first stationary contact 21, thus reconnecting the circuit.

[0059] like Figure 2 As shown, the heart-shaped groove mechanism 40 includes a protrusion 41 and a connecting rod 42. The bottom surface of the protrusion 41 is connected to the base 10, and the top surface has a track groove 411. The top surface of the protrusion 41 has a heart-shaped groove, and a protrusion in the middle of the groove. The sidewall of the heart-shaped groove and the sidewall of the protrusion form the track groove 411.

[0060] The protrusion 41 protrudes from the first housing 11. In the height direction of the protrusion 41 relative to the first housing 11, the surface of the protrusion 41 away from the first housing 11 is the top surface of the protrusion 41, and the surface opposite to the top surface is the bottom surface of the protrusion 41.

[0061] One end of the connecting rod 42 has a bent portion 421, which is located in the track groove 411, and the other end of the connecting rod 42 is connected to the button 30.

[0062] The paddle 43 is rotatably connected to the top surface of the protrusion 41, and the paddle 43 is connected to the bimetallic strip 22. When the button 30 is pressed, the bent part 421 moves along the track groove 411 to drive the paddle 43 to rotate.

[0063] During the pressing of button 30, button 30 drives linkage 42, causing the bent portion 421 of linkage 42 to move within the track groove 411. The bent portion 421 moves to different positions within the track groove 411, placing button 30 in different states, such as a pressed state or a released state. During this movement, linkage 42, via lever 43, drives bimetallic strip 22, causing bimetallic strip 22 to separate from or contact the first stationary contact 21. Thus, by pressing button 30, the moving contact 221 can contact the stationary contact 211 to connect the circuit, or the moving contact 221 can separate from the stationary contact 211 to disconnect the circuit. Even if the circuit load is too high, causing bimetallic strip 22 to deform and the moving contact 221 to separate from the stationary contact 211, thus cutting off the circuit, pressing button 30 can still reset bimetallic strip 22 by driving lever 43.

[0064] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 3 At least the second housing 12 and the lever 43 are omitted. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the track groove 411 is heart-shaped. Along the first direction, for example... Figure 3 As shown in the counter-clockwise configuration, the track groove 411 has a first inflection point 411a, a second inflection point 411b, a third inflection point 411c, and a fourth inflection point 411d. The second inflection point 411b and the fourth inflection point 411d are located on both sides of the line connecting the first inflection point 411a and the third inflection point 411c, respectively. The first inflection point 411a and the third inflection point 411c are two stable positions; when the bent portion 421 of the connecting rod 42 is in these two positions, it can lock the button 30. The second inflection point 411b and the fourth inflection point 411d are two transitional positions; when the button 30 is pressed by an external force, the bent portion 421 of the connecting rod 42 can move to either the second inflection point 411b or the fourth inflection point 411d. After the external force is removed, the bent portion 421 of the connecting rod 42 will move along the track groove 411 to either the third inflection point 411c or the first inflection point 411a.

[0065] Figures 4-7 This is a schematic diagram of the state of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. From... Figures 4-7 This diagram illustrates the cyclic operation of button 30 when it is pressed, assuming no circuit overload. The figure shows the approximate movement trajectory of the bent portion 421 during button 30 pressing. Button 30 is in the pop-up state (e.g., ...). Figure 4 As shown), press button 30 (as shown). Figure 5 As shown), after being released, button 30 is locked in the pressed state (as shown). Figure 6 As shown), press button 30 again (as shown). Figure 7 As shown), after releasing the button again, button 30 returns to the pop-up state (as shown). Figure 4 (As shown).

[0066] like Figure 4 As shown, when the bend 421 of the connecting rod 42 is located at the first inflection point 411a, the button 30 is in the pop-up state, and the bimetallic strip 22 separates from the first stationary contact 21. At this time, the circuit protection switch is in the off state, and the circuit is cut off.

[0067] like Figure 5 As shown, when the bent portion 421 of the connecting rod 42 is located at the second inflection point 411b, the bimetallic strip 22 is in contact with the first stationary contact piece 21. Under the action of pressing the button 30, the bent portion 421 moves to the second inflection point 411b, the button 30 is in an unstable state, and the bimetallic strip 22 is reset under the action of the lever 43, so that the circuit is reconnected.

[0068] like Figure 6 As shown, when the bent portion 421 of the connecting rod 42 is at the third inflection point 411c, the button 30 is in the pressed state, and the bimetallic strip 22 is in contact with the first stationary contact 21. When the button 30 is in the pop-up state, pressing the button 30 causes the bent portion 421 to reach the second inflection point 411b. After the external force is removed, the bent portion 421 moves to the third inflection point 411c, and the heart-shaped groove mechanism 40 locks the button 30 in the pressed state. When the load in the circuit is small and insufficient to deform the bimetallic strip 22, the bimetallic strip 22 contacts the first stationary contact 21, and the circuit protection switch is in the on state.

[0069] like Figure 7 As shown, when the bent portion 421 of the connecting rod 42 is at the fourth inflection point 411d, the bimetallic strip 22 separates from the first stationary contact 21. When manual circuit disconnection is required, pressing button 30 moves the bent portion 421 of the connecting rod 42 from the third inflection point 411c to the fourth inflection point 411d, thereby moving the lever 43 to separate the bimetallic strip 22 from the first stationary contact 21 and disconnect the circuit. Releasing button 30 moves the bent portion 421 of the connecting rod 42 back to the first inflection point 411a, and the circuit protection switch returns to normal. Figure 4 The state shown.

[0070] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 8 At least the second shell 12 is omitted. For example... Figure 8As shown, the paddle 43 includes a paddle part 431 and a main body 432. The paddle part 431 is connected to both the main body 432 and the bimetallic strip 22. The main body 432 is opposite to and connected to the top surface of the protrusion 41. The main body 432 has an opening 432a that matches the track groove 411, and the opening 432a fits over the bent part 421. The inner wall of the opening 432a engages with the bent part 421 to drive the paddle 43 to rotate.

[0071] During the pressing of button 30, button 30 drives linkage 42, causing the bent part 421 to move in track groove 411. During the movement of the bent part 421, it contacts the inner wall of opening 432a, and through the inner wall of opening 432a, it actuates the paddle 43, causing the paddle 43 to rotate, thereby driving the bimetallic strip 22 to move.

[0072] The connection point between the paddle 43 and the protrusion 41 is located at the third inflection point 411c on the side near the bimetallic strip 22, and between the second inflection point 411b and the fourth inflection point 411d. When the button 30 is pressed, the bent portion 421 pushes the paddle 43 from the side near the second inflection point 411b, allowing the paddle 43 to rotate in the first direction; while the bent portion 421 pushes the paddle 43 from the side near the fourth inflection point 411d, allowing the paddle 43 to rotate in the opposite second direction.

[0073] like Figure 8 As shown, the rotation axis m of the main body 432 is located on the side of the track groove 411 and the opening 432a near the bimetallic strip 22.

[0074] For example, the main body 432 is connected to the protrusion 41 by a pin 433. The pin 433 is located on the side of the track groove 411 and the opening 432a near the bimetallic strip 22.

[0075] The inner wall of the opening 432a has a tapered protrusion 4321 near the rotation axis m. The tapered protrusion 4321 has a first guide sidewall 4321a and a second guide sidewall 4321b. The first guide sidewall 4321a is near the second inflection point 411b, and the second guide sidewall 4321b is near the fourth inflection point 411d. The first guide sidewall 4321a and the second guide sidewall 4321b are used to guide the movement direction of the bent portion 421 of the connecting rod 42.

[0076] Figure 9 and Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the state of a circuit protection switch provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. From... Figures 8-10 This describes the process of resetting the bimetallic strip 22 when the circuit overload occurs while the circuit protection switch is on. Figure 8 In the middle, when button 30 is pressed, the bimetallic strip 22 contacts the first stationary contact 21, and the circuit protection switch is turned on. For example... Figure 9As shown, when the load in the circuit is too large, the bimetallic strip 22 deforms, causing it to separate from the first stationary contact 21. This disconnects the circuit protection switch, cutting off the circuit. Button 30 remains pressed. To reconnect the circuit protection switch, the bimetallic strip 22 needs to be reset. Figure 10 The diagram shows the approximate movement trajectory of the bent portion 421 when the bimetallic strip 22 is reset. (See diagram for details.) Figure 10 As shown, when button 30 is pressed, the bent portion 421 of the connecting rod 42 pushes the lever 43 to rotate in the first direction, causing the bimetallic strip 22 to re-engage with the first stationary contact piece 21, thus activating the circuit protection switch. After releasing button 30, button 30 returns to the pressed state (as shown). Figure 8 (As shown).

[0077] The line of intersection of the first guide sidewall 4321a and the second guide sidewall 4321b relative to the interface n (refer to) Figure 8 Because of the different positions of the buttons, the guide sidewalls acting on the bent part 421 are different during the pressing of button 30, allowing the paddle 43 to rotate in different directions. Here, the interface n refers to the plane containing the rotation axis m and the third inflection point 411c.

[0078] In this embodiment, when the intersection of the first guide sidewall 4321a and the second guide sidewall 4321b is located on the side of the interface n near the fourth inflection point 411d, and the button 30 is pressed in the pressed state, the paddle 43 rotates in the first direction, causing the paddle 43 to drive the bimetallic strip 22 to contact the first stationary contact piece 21. When the intersection of the first guide sidewall 4321a and the second guide sidewall 4321b is located on the side of the interface n near the second inflection point 411b, and the button 30 is pressed in the pressed state, the paddle 43 rotates in the second direction, causing the paddle 43 to drive the bimetallic strip 22 to separate from the first stationary contact piece 21.

[0079] Combination Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the bent portion 421 of the connecting rod 42 is located at the third inflection point 411c. When the bimetallic strip 22 separates from the first stationary contact piece 21, the intersection line of the first guide sidewall 4321a and the second guide sidewall 4321b is located on the side of the interface n near the fourth inflection point 411d. The first guide sidewall 4321a is located between the bent portion 421 and the rotation axis m. When the bimetallic strip 22 contacts the first stationary contact piece 21, the intersection line of the first guide sidewall 4321a and the second guide sidewall 4321b is located on the side of the interface near the second inflection point 411b. The second guide sidewall 4321b is located between the bent portion 421 and the rotation axis m.

[0080] Combination Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, when button 30 is pressed at the third inflection point 411c at the bend 421, the bend 421 of the connecting rod 42 moves to contact the conical protrusion 4321. Since the first guide sidewall 4321a is located between the bend 421 and the rotation axis m at this time, after the bend 421 leaves the third inflection point 411c, it moves to contact the first guide sidewall 4321a. The first guide sidewall 4321a approaches the second inflection point 411b, and under the action of the first guide sidewall 4321a, the bend 421 moves along the first guide sidewall 4321a to the second inflection point 411b. The paddle 43 rotates in the first direction under the push of the bend 421, so that the bimetallic strip 22 contacts the first stationary contact 21, completing the reset of the bimetallic strip 22. After the external force is removed from button 30, the bent part 421 returns to the third inflection point 411c, keeping button 30 in the pressed state. At this time, the state of the circuit protection switch can be referred to Figure 8 .

[0081] Under the condition that the circuit is not overloaded, refer to Figure 8 The bent portion 421 is located at the third inflection point 411c, where the bimetallic strip 22 contacts the first stationary contact 21. The second guide sidewall 4321b is located between the bent portion 421 and the rotation axis m. When the button 30 is pressed, the bent portion 421 moves away from the third inflection point 411c and then contacts the second guide sidewall 4321b. The second guide sidewall 4321b approaches the fourth inflection point 411d. Under the action of the second guide sidewall 4321b, the bent portion 421 moves along the second guide sidewall 4321b to the fourth inflection point 411d. The lever 43 rotates in the second direction under the push of the bent portion 421, causing the bimetallic strip 22 to separate from the first stationary contact 21, thereby actively disconnecting the circuit. The state of the circuit protection switch at this time can be referred to Figure 7 After the external force pressing the button 30 is removed, the bending part 421 moves to the first inflection point 411a, keeping the button 30 in the pop-up state. At the first inflection point 411a, the bending part 421 contacts the side wall of the opening 422a away from the rotation axis m, keeping the lever 43 in this state. The bimetallic strip 22 separates from the first stationary contact 21. The state of the circuit protection switch at this time can be referenced... Figure 4 .

[0082] The shape of the opening 422a can be obtained through simulation or other means so that when the button 30 is pressed, the bent part 421 of the connecting rod 42 can drive the paddle 43 to rotate, thereby controlling the bimetallic strip 22.

[0083] like Figure 8 As shown, the end of the actuating part 431 away from the main body part 432 has a latch 431a. The latch 431a engages with the bimetallic strip 22.

[0084] Reference Figure 2The base 10 has a slot 11a, and one end of the bimetallic strip 22 is locked in the slot 11a to fix the bimetallic strip 22. The latch 431a of the actuating part 431 engages with the other end of the bimetallic strip 22. When the lever 43 rotates, the actuating part 431 drives the bimetallic strip 22 to move through the latch 431a.

[0085] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a bimetallic sheet provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 11 As shown, the bimetallic strip 22 has a pre-deformation region 222 in its middle. When the bimetallic strip 22 contacts the first stationary contact 21, the pre-deformation region 222 protrudes away from the first stationary contact 21. At this time, the protruding pre-deformation region 222 can generate a certain stress, causing the bimetallic strip 22 to tend to bend towards the side where the first stationary contact 21 is located, thus keeping the bimetallic strip 22 in contact with the first stationary contact 21. When the bimetallic strip 22 separates from the first stationary contact 21, the pre-deformation region protrudes towards the side closer to the first stationary contact 21. At this time, the protruding pre-deformation region 222 can generate a certain stress, causing the bimetallic strip 22 to tend to bend away from the side where the first stationary contact 21 is located, thus separating the bimetallic strip 22 from the first stationary contact 21.

[0086] For example, the pre-deformed region 222 can be formed by stamping.

[0087] Reference Figure 2 As shown, the circuit protection switch also includes a support plate 25. (As indicated...) Figure 3 As shown, the support plate 25 is located on the side of the bimetallic strip 22 closer to the first stationary contact piece 21, and corresponds to the pre-deformation area 222. The support plate 25 is connected to the base 10. When the bimetallic strip 22 contacts the first stationary contact piece 21, there is a gap between the support plate 25 and the pre-deformation area 222. When the bimetallic strip 22 separates from the first stationary contact piece 21, during the process of pressing the button 30 to bring the bimetallic strip 22 closer to the first stationary contact piece 21, the pre-deformation area 222 first bulges towards the side where the first stationary contact piece 21 is located, and the pre-deformation area 222 gradually moves closer to the support plate 25. After the pre-deformation area 222 contacts the support plate 25, the bimetallic strip 22 continues to move closer to the first stationary contact piece 21. Under the support of the support plate 25, the pre-deformation area 222 gradually deforms. After exceeding the critical position, the deformation direction of the pre-deformation area 222 changes, and it bulges away from the first stationary contact piece 21.

[0088] Reference Figure 2 As shown, the button 30 includes a keycap 31 and a light-emitting structure 32. The light-emitting structure 32 is located on the side of the keycap 31 near the heart-shaped groove mechanism 40. The light-emitting structure 32 can emit light when powered on, thereby indicating the state of the circuit.

[0089] The conductive sheet assembly 20 also includes a second stationary contact 24, which is connected to the base 10. A portion of the second stationary contact 24 extends outward from the base 10 to facilitate wire connection. For example, the second stationary contact 24 can be connected to the neutral wire.

[0090] The circuit protection switch also includes a first elastic conductive element 51 and a second elastic conductive element 52. The first elastic conductive element 51 is located between the bimetallic strip 22 and the button 30, and is connected to both the bimetallic strip 22 and the light-emitting structure 32. The second elastic conductive element 52 is located between the second stationary contact 24 and the button 30, and is connected to both the second stationary contact 24 and the light-emitting structure 32.

[0091] When the circuit protection switch is connected to the circuit, the first stationary contact 21 is connected to the live wire, and the second stationary contact 24 is connected to the neutral wire. By setting up a light-emitting structure 32, a first elastic conductive element 51, and a second elastic conductive element 52, the light-emitting structure 32 is connected to the circuit. When the bimetallic strip 22 contacts the first stationary contact 21 and the circuit is turned on, current also flows through the first and second elastic conductive elements 51 and 52 through the light-emitting structure 32, causing the light-emitting structure 32 to emit light to indicate the circuit status and to allow the user to easily know the status of the circuit protection switch. Furthermore, the first and second elastic conductive elements 51 and 52 also provide the force to make the button 30 spring back.

[0092] like Figure 3 As shown, the first elastic conductive element 51 and the second elastic conductive element 52 are located on opposite sides of the heart-shaped groove mechanism 40.

[0093] The first elastic conductive element 51 and the second elastic conductive element 52 are arranged on both sides of the heart-shaped groove mechanism 40, so that the connection between the heart-shaped groove mechanism 40 and the button 30 is located between the first elastic conductive element 51 and the second elastic conductive element 52. This makes it easier to balance the force exerted by the connecting rod 42 on the button 30 and the force exerted by the first elastic conductive element 51 and the second elastic conductive element 52 on the button 30, resulting in a more stable button 30. Furthermore, by using the heart-shaped groove mechanism 40 to separate the first elastic conductive element 51 and the second elastic conductive element 52, the distance between them is increased, which improves safety and reduces the risk of short circuit between the first elastic conductive element 51 and the second elastic conductive element 52.

[0094] For example, both the first elastic conductive element 51 and the second elastic conductive element 52 are conductive springs, such as metal springs.

[0095] like Figure 3As shown, the inner wall of the first housing 11 may have several limiting plates 111. The limiting plates 111 are located on the side of the first elastic conductive member 51 or the second elastic conductive member 52 to laterally limit the first elastic conductive member 51 or the second elastic conductive member 52 and prevent the first elastic conductive member 51 and the second elastic conductive member 52 from bending laterally.

[0096] Figure 12 This is an exploded view of a button according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 12 As shown, the light-emitting structure 32 includes a circuit board 321 and a light-emitting device 322. The circuit board 321 is located on the side of the keycap 31 near the heart-shaped groove mechanism 40. The light-emitting device 322 is located on the side of the circuit board 321 near the keycap 31.

[0097] Integrating the light-emitting device 322 onto the circuit board 321 and directly placing it in the button 30 helps reduce the size of the circuit protection switch. For example, the light-emitting device 322 can be a light-emitting diode (LED).

[0098] like Figure 12 As shown, the button 30 also includes a keycap holder 34, which is connected to the keycap 31. The keycap holder 34 has a limiting protrusion 341. The circuit board 321 also has a limiting hole 321a. The limiting protrusion 341 is located in the limiting hole 321a. Through the cooperation of the limiting protrusion 341 and the limiting hole 321a, the circuit board 321 is limited, so that the circuit board 321 and the keycap 31 can be connected more stably.

[0099] The first elastic conductive element 51 and the second elastic conductive element 52 are connected to the side of the circuit board 321 away from the keycap 31.

[0100] like Figure 12 As shown, the side of circuit board 321 away from the light-emitting device 322, that is, the side near the first elastic conductive member 51 and the second elastic conductive member 52, has a first conductive pattern 3211 and a second conductive pattern 3212. The first conductive pattern 3211 and the second conductive pattern 3212 are exposed conductive structures on the surface of circuit board 321, such as metal sheets. The first conductive pattern 3211 and the second conductive pattern 3212 are connected to the light-emitting device 322 on circuit board 321.

[0101] For example, both the first conductive pattern 3211 and the second conductive pattern 3212 are rectangular.

[0102] The first elastic conductive element 51 is in electrical contact with the first conductive pattern 3211, and the second elastic conductive element 52 is in electrical contact with the second conductive pattern 3212. The first elastic conductive element 51 and the second elastic conductive element 52 can maintain the electrical connection between the circuit board 321 and the conductive sheet assembly 20. When the moving contact 221 and the stationary contact 211 are in contact, the circuit is turned on, and the first elastic conductive element 51 and the second elastic conductive element 52 connect the circuit board 321 into the circuit, so that the light-emitting device 322 on the circuit board 321 is energized and emits light.

[0103] like Figure 12 As shown, button 30 also includes a light guide 33. Keycap 31 has a light-transmitting hole 31a, which can be seen from... Figure 2 As shown. The light guide 33 is located in the light-transmitting hole 31a, and the light guide 33 is opposite to the light-emitting device 322.

[0104] The light emitted by the light-emitting device 322 illuminates the light guide 33, causing the light to radiate outward from the light-transmitting hole 31a. The light guide 33 makes the light emitted by the light-emitting structure 32 more uniform and softer, and avoids the light emitted by the light-emitting device 322 from being too concentrated and dazzling.

[0105] In other examples, at least a portion of the keycap 31 is made of a light-guiding material. The light-emitting device 322 is opposite the portion of the keycap 31 made of the light-guiding material. For example, if the entire keycap 31 is made of a light-guiding material, the keycap 31 will be illuminated when light emitted from the light-emitting device 322 shines on it, indicating the state of the circuit protection switch.

[0106] like Figure 12 As shown, the keycap 31 includes a top wall and side walls, which together form a cylindrical structure that is closed at the top and open at the bottom. The light guide 33 is located in the space enclosed by the top wall and side walls.

[0107] The light-transmitting hole 31a is located on the top wall of the keycap 31. The number of light-transmitting holes 31a can be one, two, or more.

[0108] This disclosure also provides an electrical device that includes the aforementioned circuit protection switch.

[0109] By installing this circuit protection switch in electrical equipment, the circuit can be manually switched on or off, and the circuit can also be switched off when the circuit is overloaded, thus preventing circuit damage caused by overload.

[0110] For example, the electrical appliance may be, but is not limited to, a socket, a power cabinet, a charging pile, an air conditioner, or a television.

[0111] The above description is merely an optional embodiment of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this disclosure should be included within the protection scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A circuit protection switch, characterized in that, It includes a base (10), a conductive sheet assembly (20), a button (30), a heart-shaped groove mechanism (40), and a paddle (43); The conductive sheet assembly (20) includes a first stationary contact sheet (21) and a bimetallic sheet (22). The first stationary contact sheet (21) is connected to the base (10). One end of the bimetallic sheet (22) is connected to the base (10), and the other end is opposite to the first stationary contact sheet (21). The button (30) is located on the side of the bimetallic strip (22) away from the first stationary contact piece (21); The heart-shaped groove mechanism (40) is located between the bimetallic strip (22) and the button (30). The heart-shaped groove mechanism (40) includes a protrusion (41) and a connecting rod (42). The bottom surface of the protrusion (41) is connected to the base (10), and the top surface has a track groove (411). One end of the connecting rod (42) has a bent portion (421) located in the track groove (411), and the other end is connected to the button (30) for locking the button (30) in a pop-up state or a pressed state. The paddle (43) includes a toggle part (431) and a main body part (432). The toggle part (431) is connected to the main body part (432) and the bimetallic strip (22) respectively. The main body part (432) is opposite to and connected to the top surface of the protrusion (41). The main body part (432) has an opening (432a) that matches the track groove (411). The opening (432a) is fitted outside the bent part (421). The paddle (43) is used to separate or contact the bimetallic strip (22) with the first stationary contact piece (21) during the pressing of the button (30).

2. The circuit protection switch according to claim 1, characterized in that, The paddle (43) is configured to rotate in a first direction when the button (30) is pressed in the pop-up state, so that the bimetallic strip (22) contacts the first stationary contact (21); When the button (30) is pressed, it rotates in the first direction to make the bimetallic strip (22) contact the first stationary contact (21), or rotates in the second direction to separate the bimetallic strip (22) from the first stationary contact (21). The second direction is opposite to the first direction.

3. The circuit protection switch according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the first direction, the trajectory groove (411) has a first inflection point (411a), a second inflection point (411b), a third inflection point (411c) and a fourth inflection point (411d); When the bent portion (421) is located at the first inflection point (411a), the button (30) is in the pop-up state, and the bimetallic strip (22) is separated from the first stationary contact piece (21); When the bent portion (421) is located at the second inflection point (411b), the bimetallic strip (22) contacts the first stationary contact piece (21); When the bend (421) is located at the third inflection point (411c), the button (30) is in the pressed state; When the bent portion (421) is located at the fourth inflection point (411d), the bimetallic sheet (22) separates from the first stationary contact sheet (21).

4. The circuit protection switch according to claim 3, characterized in that, The connection between the paddle (43) and the protrusion (41) is located on the side of the third inflection point (411c) near the bimetallic strip (22), and between the second inflection point (411b) and the fourth inflection point (411d).

5. The circuit protection switch according to claim 4, characterized in that, The rotation axis (m) of the main body (432) is located on the side of the track groove (411) and the opening (432a) close to the bimetallic sheet (22); The inner wall of the opening (432a) near the axis of rotation (m) has a tapered protrusion (4321), the tapered protrusion (4321) having a first guide sidewall (4321a) and a second guide sidewall (4321b). When the intersection of the first guide sidewall (4321a) and the second guide sidewall (4321b) is located on the side of the interface (n) near the fourth inflection point (411d), and the button (30) is pressed in the pressed state, the paddle (43) rotates along the first direction, and the interface (n) is the plane where the rotation axis (m) and the third inflection point (411c) are located; when the intersection of the first guide sidewall (4321a) and the second guide sidewall (4321b) is located on the side of the interface (n) near the second inflection point (411b), and the button (30) is pressed in the pressed state, the paddle (43) rotates along the second direction.

6. The circuit protection switch according to claim 4, characterized in that, The actuating part (431) has a latch (431a) at one end away from the main body (432), and the latch (431a) engages with the bimetallic strip (22).

7. The circuit protection switch according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The button (30) includes a keycap (31) and a light-emitting structure (32). The light-emitting structure (32) is located on the side of the keycap (31) near the heart-shaped groove mechanism (40). The conductive sheet assembly (20) also includes a second stationary contact (24), which is connected to the base (10). The circuit protection switch also includes a first elastic conductive element (51) and a second elastic conductive element (52). The first elastic conductive element (51) is located between the bimetallic strip (22) and the button (30) and is connected to the bimetallic strip (22) and the light-emitting structure (32) respectively. The second elastic conductive element (52) is located between the second stationary contact (24) and the button (30) and is connected to the second stationary contact (24) and the light-emitting structure (32) respectively.

8. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, Includes the circuit protection switch as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

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