Mechanical interlocking system and switchgear including the same

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a mechanical interlocking system and a switchgear including the mechanical interlocking system. The mechanical interlocking system includes: a first interlocking assembly coupled to a first circuit breaker and switchable between a locked state and a released state, wherein the first interlocking assembly prevents the first circuit breaker from closing in the locked state and allows the first circuit breaker to close in the released state; a second interlocking assembly coupled to a second circuit breaker and switchable between a locked state and a released state, wherein the second interlocking assembly prevents the second circuit breaker from closing in the locked state and allows the second circuit breaker to close in the released state; and an intermediate assembly arranged between the first circuit breaker and the second circuit breaker, and including: a first transmission member arranged to couple the first circuit breaker to the second interlocking assembly and configured to switch the second interlocking assembly to a locked state in response to the first circuit breaker closing; and a second transmission member arranged to couple the second circuit breaker to the first interlocking assembly and configured to switch the first interlocking assembly to a locked state in response to the second circuit breaker closing. In the present disclosure, the mechanical interlocking can prevent the circuit breakers from closing at the same time under any circumstances, and has the advantages of simplicity and reliability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to the field of electrical equipment, and more particularly to a mechanical interlocking system and a switchgear including the mechanical interlocking system. Background Art

[0002] In some cases, such as in data centers, large buildings, smart grids, hospitals, transportation, airport command centers, and metallurgical and chemical industries, normal power and backup power are usually provided to ensure high reliability and continuity of power supply. In this case, a switching electrical device is required for switching the normal power supply and the backup power supply. By using a switching electrical device, when the normal power supply fails, the power supply of the load will be switched from the normal power supply to the backup power supply, and when the normal power supply returns to a healthy state, the power supply of the load will be switched from the backup power supply back to the normal power supply. An example of a switching electrical device is a medium voltage automatic transfer switch (ATS) device, which is a power conversion system operating at 12kV or lower.

[0003] Switching electrical devices such as ATS equipment can use two sets of circuit breakers with interlocking functions (for example, vacuum circuit breakers). Generally speaking, the interlocking function of the two sets of circuit breakers should prevent the normal power supply and the backup power supply from being connected to the load at the same time, and should not fail under any circumstances. This interlocking function can avoid unwanted short circuits and faults in the power system. Electrical interlocking and mechanical interlocking functions can be respectively provided in the switching electrical device to ensure the interlocking of the two circuit breakers. Generally speaking, the mechanical interlocking system should meet the following requirements: the mechanical interlocking should be able to prevent the normal power supply and the backup power supply from being connected to the load at the same time, and should not fail under any circumstances; if one circuit breaker is in the closed state, the other circuit breaker must be in the open state; if one circuit breaker is in the open state, the other circuit breaker can be in the open state or the closed state; when the circuit breaker is initially placed in the working position, the circuit breaker is in the open state; and when the circuit breaker is in the service or maintenance position, the interlocking function may not be required.

[0004] At present, there is still a need for an excellent mechanical interlocking device, which should be easy to install and have high reliability. Summary of the invention

[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a mechanical interlocking system and a switchgear including the mechanical interlocking system.

[0006] In a first aspect, a mechanical interlock system is provided. The mechanical interlock system includes: a first interlock assembly coupled to a first circuit breaker and switchable between a locked state and a released state, wherein the first interlock assembly prevents the first circuit breaker from closing in the locked state and allows the first circuit breaker to close in the released state; a second interlock assembly coupled to a second circuit breaker and switchable between a locked state and a released state, wherein the second interlock assembly prevents the second circuit breaker from closing in the locked state and allows the second circuit breaker to close in the released state; and an intermediate assembly arranged between the first circuit breaker and the second circuit breaker and including: a first transmission member arranged to couple the first circuit breaker to the second interlock assembly and configured to switch the second interlock assembly to the locked state in response to the first circuit breaker closing; and a second transmission member arranged to couple the second circuit breaker to the first interlock assembly and configured to switch the first interlock assembly to the locked state in response to the second circuit breaker closing.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a mechanical interlocking system can be easily and simply installed between at least two circuit breakers to be interlocked. Interlocking between circuit breakers can be achieved in a relatively fast and reliable manner. In addition, the mechanical interlocking system does not affect the operation of the circuit breaker entering and exiting the switchgear or switch cabinet.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first transfer member is configured to be coupled to the first circuit breaker and the second interlock assembly in a non-fixed connection, and the second transfer member is configured to be coupled to the second circuit breaker and the first interlock assembly in a non-fixed connection.

[0009] In some embodiments, the intermediate assembly further comprises a support member arranged to support the first transfer member and the second transfer member in a rotatable connection.

[0010] In some embodiments, the support member comprises at least two separable parts.

[0011] In some embodiments, each of the first transfer member and the second transfer member includes: a first rotatable component supported by a support member and rotatable relative to the support member; a first transfer arm arranged at one end of the first rotatable component; and a second transfer arm arranged at the other end of the first rotatable component.

[0012] In some embodiments, each of the first transmission member and the second transmission member further includes: a first elastic member coupled to the first rotatable component and the support member and configured to reset the first rotatable component in response to the corresponding circuit breaker changing from a closed state to an open state; and a first limiting element configured to limit the rotation range of the first rotatable component relative to the support member.

[0013] In some embodiments, the mechanical interlocking system also includes: a first driving arm having a first end fixed to the main shaft of the first circuit breaker and a second end opposite to the first end, the second end being suitable for pushing the first transfer arm of the first transfer member when the main shaft of the first circuit breaker rotates to close the first circuit breaker; and a second driving arm having a first end fixed to the main shaft of the second circuit breaker and a second end opposite to the first end, the second end being suitable for pushing the first transfer arm of the second transfer member when the main shaft of the second circuit breaker rotates to close the second circuit breaker.

[0014] In some embodiments, each of the first drive arm and the second drive arm includes a POM wheel disposed at a second end thereof.

[0015] In some embodiments, each interlocking assembly of the first interlocking assembly and the second interlocking assembly includes: a second rotatable component; a linearly movable component, configured to move between a locking position corresponding to a locking state and a releasing position corresponding to a releasing state; an input arm, arranged at one end of the second rotatable component and configured to be pushed by a second transfer arm of a corresponding transfer member; and a conversion component, arranged at the other end of the second rotatable component and configured to convert the rotational motion of the second rotatable component into the linear motion of the linear movable component.

[0016] In some embodiments, each of the first interlock assembly and the second interlock assembly further includes: a second elastic component coupled to the second rotatable component and configured to reset the second rotatable component in response to the corresponding circuit breaker changing from a closed state to an open state; a second limiting element configured to limit the rotation range of the second rotatable component; and a third elastic component configured to reset the linearly movable component to a released position in response to the corresponding circuit breaker changing from a closed state to an open state.

[0017] In some embodiments, the linearly movable component includes: a telescoping element; and at least one tubular element configured to receive and guide the telescoping element.

[0018] In some embodiments, the transition component includes a cam.

[0019] In a second aspect, a switchgear is provided. The switchgear comprises: a first circuit breaker; a second circuit breaker; and a mechanical interlock system according to the first aspect, the mechanical interlock system being coupled to the first circuit breaker and the second circuit breaker to prevent the first circuit breaker and the second circuit breaker from being closed simultaneously.

[0020] In some embodiments, the switching device is an automatic transfer switch ATS device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The accompanying drawings described herein are provided to further explain the present disclosure and constitute a part of the present disclosure. The exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and their explanations are used to explain the present disclosure, but are not used to improperly limit the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 1 A perspective view of a mechanical interlock system and two circuit breakers according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0023] Figure 2A It shows that Figure 1 A perspective view of a first circuit breaker is shown.

[0024] Figure 2B It shows that Figure 1 A perspective view of a second circuit breaker is shown.

[0025] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D Different views of intermediate components of a mechanical interlock system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0026] 4A to 4D Different views of a drive arm of a mechanical interlock system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0027] Figure 5A A perspective view of a first interlock assembly mounted on a first circuit breaker is shown.

[0028] Figure 5B and Figure 5C It shows that Figure 5A A perspective view and a front view of the upper portion of the first interlock assembly are shown.

[0029] Fig. 6A A perspective view of a second interlock assembly mounted on a second circuit breaker is shown.

[0030] Figure 6B and Figure 6C It shows that Fig. 6A A perspective view and a front view of the upper portion of the second interlock assembly are shown.

[0031] Fig. 7A A perspective view of the linearly movable components of the first and second interlock assemblies is shown.

[0032] Figure 7B and Figure 7C A partial perspective view of the linearly movable components of the first interlock assembly and the second interlock assembly is shown.

[0033] Fig. 8A A perspective view of a linearly movable member and a first circuit breaker according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0034] Figure 8B Shows Fig. 8A A partial enlarged view of the linear movable component and the first circuit breaker.

[0035] Fig. 9A A perspective view of a switchgear according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0036] Fig. 9B and Fig. 9C is a schematic view showing the internal structure of a housing of a switchgear.

[0037] Throughout the drawings, the same or similar reference numbers are used to refer to the same or similar elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] The principle of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to several example embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. Although example embodiments of the present disclosure are shown in the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the description of these embodiments is only to facilitate those skilled in the art to better understand and thereby implement the present disclosure, rather than to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

[0039] The terms "including" or "having" and their variations will be understood as open terms meaning "including but not limited to". Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the term "or" should be understood as "and / or". The term "based on" should be understood as "based at least in part on". The term "operable" means that a function, action, movement or state can be achieved through operations induced by a user or an external mechanism. The terms "one embodiment" and "embodiment" should be understood as "at least one embodiment". The term "another embodiment" should be understood as "at least one other embodiment". The terms "first", "second", etc. may refer to different or the same objects. Other definitions (explicit and implicit) may be included below. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the definitions of terms are consistent throughout the description.

[0040] Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled," and variations thereof, are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Furthermore, "connected" and "coupled" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. In the following description, like reference numerals and labels are used to describe the same, similar, or corresponding parts of the figures. Other definitions (explicit and implicit) may be included below.

[0041] In conventional solutions for achieving interlocking between two circuit breakers, the conventional interlocking device is complicated to install, and the reliability of the interlocking is poor due to the large number of components used. In addition, once the circuit breaker is interlocked, it is difficult to move the circuit breaker out of the working position (for example, for maintenance or other purposes), or additional auxiliary components are required to facilitate the movement of the circuit breaker, which increases the cost of the interlocking device.

[0042] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a new mechanical interlocking system is provided between circuit breakers. The mechanical interlocking system can effectively prevent the circuit breakers from being closed at the same time, and has the advantages of simple installation and high reliability. In addition, the interlocking system does not affect the switching of the circuit breaker between the working position and the maintenance position, making it easier for the circuit breaker to enter and exit the switchgear or switch cabinet.

[0043] Figure 1 A stereoscopic view of a mechanical interlocking system 100 and circuit breakers 200, 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Both circuit breakers 200 and 300 can be electrically connected to an electrical load. Circuit breakers 200 and 300 can also be electrically connected to a main power supply and a backup power supply, respectively, so that power from the main power supply or the backup power supply can be provided to the electrical load according to the operation of the circuit breaker. For example, circuit breakers 200, 300 can be vacuum circuit breakers. Alternatively, circuit breakers 200, 300 can be any other type of circuit breakers capable of mechanical locking. In addition, in order to clearly show the internal structure of circuit breakers 200, 300, some components of circuit breakers 200, 300, such as panels, are omitted. The mechanical interlocking system 100 can provide an interlock between circuit breakers 200 and 300, thereby preventing circuit breakers 200 and 300 from being closed at the same time.

[0044] Figure 2A It shows that Figure 1 The perspective view of the first circuit breaker 200 is shown. Figure 2B It shows that Figure 1 A perspective view of a second circuit breaker 300 is shown.

[0045] like Figure 2A As shown, the mechanical interlock system 100 includes a first interlock assembly 110. The first interlock assembly 110 is coupled to the first circuit breaker 200 and is switchable between a locked state and a released state. The first interlock assembly 110 prevents the first circuit breaker 200 from closing in the locked state and allows the first circuit breaker 200 to close in the released state. For example, the first interlock assembly 110 can be mounted on a housing or frame of the first circuit breaker 200 so that the first interlock assembly 110 can be placed near an operating element in the first circuit breaker 200. With such an arrangement, the first interlock assembly 110 can affect the mechanical operation of the first circuit breaker 200 through the movement of its elements. Alternatively, the first interlock assembly 110 can be arranged at other suitable positions relative to the circuit breaker 200, as long as the state change of the first interlock assembly 110 can affect the closing of the first circuit breaker 200.

[0046] like Figure 2BAs shown, the mechanical interlock system 100 includes a second interlock assembly 120. The second interlock assembly 120 is coupled to the second circuit breaker 300 and is switchable between a locked state and a released state. The second interlock assembly 120 prevents the second circuit breaker 300 from closing in the locked state and allows the second circuit breaker 300 to close in the released state. For example, the second interlock assembly 120 can be mounted on a housing or frame of the second circuit breaker 300 so that the second interlock assembly 120 can be placed near an operating element in the second circuit breaker 300. With such an arrangement, the second interlock assembly 120 can affect the mechanical operation of the second circuit breaker 300 through the movement of its elements. Alternatively, the second interlock assembly 120 can be arranged at other suitable positions relative to the circuit breaker 300, as long as the state change of the second interlock assembly 120 can affect the closing of the second circuit breaker 300.

[0047] like Figure 2B As shown, the mechanical interlock system 100 further includes an intermediate component 130 disposed between the first circuit breaker 200 and the second circuit breaker 300 . FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D Different views of the intermediate assembly 130 of the mechanical interlock system 100 are shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C 1 and 2 are a perspective view, a front view, and a side view of the intermediate component 130, respectively.

[0048] like Figure 3A-3D As shown, the intermediate assembly 130 includes a first transmission member 1301. The first transmission member 1301 is arranged to couple the first circuit breaker 200 to the second interlock assembly 120, and is configured to switch the second interlock assembly 120 to a locked state in response to the first circuit breaker 200 closing. For example, the transmission member 1301 can transmit the movement of the first circuit breaker 200 to the second interlock assembly 120 during the closing operation of the first circuit breaker 200, thereby changing the state of the second interlock assembly 120. The intermediate assembly 130 also includes a second transmission member 1302. The second transmission member 1302 is arranged to couple the second circuit breaker 300 to the first interlock assembly 110, and is configured to switch the first interlock assembly 110 to a locked state in response to the second circuit breaker 300 closing. For example, the transmission member 1302 can transmit the movement of the second circuit breaker 300 to the first interlock assembly 110 during the closing operation of the second circuit breaker 300, thereby changing the state of the first interlock assembly 110.

[0049] By means of the separate transmission members 1301 and 1302 of the intermediate assembly 130, the movement of one of the circuit breakers 200 and 300 can be independently transmitted to the interlock assembly coupled to the other circuit breaker 200 and 300 without interfering with each other, thereby improving the reliability of the interlock. In addition, since the intermediate portion (i.e., the intermediate assembly 130) of the mechanical interlock system 100 that transmits the movement between the circuit breakers 200 and 300 is relatively independent of the interlock assembly for locking the circuit breakers 200 and 300, the intermediate portion can be substantially completely located between the circuit breakers 200 and 300, which can significantly reduce the impact of the mechanical interlock system 100 on the operation of the circuit breakers 200 and 300 entering and exiting the cabinet.

[0050] In some embodiments, the first transmission member 1301 is configured to be coupled to the first circuit breaker 200 and the second interlock assembly 120 in a non-fixed connection manner, and the second transmission member 1302 is configured to be coupled to the second circuit breaker 300 and the first interlock assembly 110 in a non-fixed connection manner. Alternatively, the first transmission member 1301 and the second transmission member 1302 can be configured to be coupled to the circuit breakers 200, 300 and the first interlock assembly 110 and the second interlock assembly 120 in a fixed connection manner (for example, by any suitable type of fastening elements). Compared with the fixed connection manner, the non-fixed connection is preferred and can provide more advantages, such as the intermediate assembly 130 for transmitting mechanical motion between the circuit breakers 200 and 300 can be mechanically decoupled from the circuit breakers 200 and 300 at any suitable time without affecting the motion transmission, so that even if the circuit breakers 200 and 300 are in an interlocked state, they can also be easily moved out of the cabinet or moved from the working position to the maintenance position.

[0051] The intermediate component 130 may also include a support member 138, which is arranged to support the first transfer member 1301 and the second transfer member 1302 in a rotatable connection. For example, the support member 138 may be provided with holes (in which bushings, bearings or any other suitable components are arranged), and the transfer members 1301 and 1302 pass through these holes so that the transfer members 1301 and 1302 are supported in a rotatable connection. Alternatively, the support member 138 may support the first transfer member 1301 and the second transfer member 1302 in other suitable ways, as long as the first transfer member 1301 and the second transfer member 1302 can be rotatably connected to the support member 138. For example, Figure 3D The state of the intermediate assembly 130 after the intermediate assembly 130 is mounted on the housing 400 of the switchgear is shown. The support member 138 may be fixed to the housing 400 of the switchgear or a cabinet for accommodating the circuit breakers 200 and 300.

[0052] In some embodiments, the support member 138 includes at least two separable parts. Figure 3A As shown, the support member 138 may include two halves adjacent to the circuit breakers 200 and 300, respectively. The two halves of the support member 138 are fixed to the housing 400 by fastening elements at their ends. In this way, the distance between the two separable parts can be adjusted according to the size of the cabinet or switchgear containing the circuit breaker, thereby increasing the flexibility of the mechanical interlocking system 100 and widening the scope of application. Alternatively, the support member 138 can be formed in one piece, as long as the support member 138 can support the first transfer member 1301 and the second transfer member 1302 between the circuit breakers 200 and 300.

[0053] Continue to refer FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C , the first transfer member 1301 includes a first rotatable component 131-1 supported by a support member 138 and rotatable relative to the support member 138, a first transfer arm 132-1 arranged at one end of the first rotatable component 131-1, and a second transfer arm 133-1 arranged at the other end of the first rotatable component 131-1. Similarly, the second transfer member 1302 includes a first rotatable component 131-2 supported by a support member 138 and rotatable relative to the support member 138, a first transfer arm 132-2 arranged at one end of the first rotatable component 131-2, and a second transfer arm 133-2 arranged at the other end of the first rotatable component 131-2. For example, the first rotatable components 131-1 and 131-2 may be rotatable shafts. In addition, as Figure 3AAs shown, the transmission arms 132-1, 132-2, 133-1 and 133-2 may include blocks 1321-1, 1321-2, 1331-1 and 1331-2, respectively. Blocks 1321-1, 1321-2, 1331-1 and 1331-2 may be made of POM material, which has the advantages of low friction, high strength, fatigue resistance and good elasticity. Alternatively, blocks 1321-1, 1321-2, 1331-1 and 1331-2 may be made of other suitable materials such as metal. In addition, the transfer arms 132-1, 132-2, 133-1 and 133-2 can include arm bodies 1322-1, 1322-2, 1332-1 and 1332-2, respectively, and blocks 1321-1, 1321-2, 1331-1, 1331-2 are fixed to the ends of the arm bodies 1322-1, 1322-2, 1332-1, 1332-2, respectively, by any suitable means (e.g., screws). By such an arrangement, the movement of the circuit breaker 200 or 300 can cause the first transfer arm 132-1 or 132-2 to rotate, and then drive the first rotatable component 131-1 or 131-2 and the second transfer arm 133-1 or 133-2 to rotate, and finally, the second transfer arm 133-1 or 133-2 can transfer the movement to the corresponding interlocking assembly coupled thereto.

[0054] In some embodiments, Figure 3A As shown, the first transmission member 1301 also includes a first elastic member 135-1 and a first limiting element 136-1. The first elastic member 135-1 is coupled to the first rotatable member 131-1 and the support member 138, and is configured to reset the first rotatable member 131-1 in response to the first circuit breaker 200 changing from a closed state to an open state. The first limiting element 136-1 is configured to limit the rotation range of the first rotatable member 131-1 relative to the support member 138. Similarly, the second transmission member 1302 also includes a first elastic member 135-2 and a first limiting element 136-2. The first elastic member 135-2 is coupled to the first rotatable member 131-2 and the support member 138, and is configured to reset the first rotatable member 131-2 in response to the second circuit breaker 300 changing from a closed state to an open state. The first limiting element 136-2 is configured to limit the rotation range of the first rotatable member 131-2 relative to the support member 138.

[0055] For example, the elastic components 135-1 and 135-2 may be coil springs respectively wound around the rotatable shafts and fixed to the support member 138. Alternatively, the elastic components 135-1 and 135-2 may also be other suitable elastic components, as long as the elastic components 135-1 and 135-2 can be deformed when the first circuit breaker 200 or 300 is closed, and can release deformation energy to return the rotatable components 131-1 and 131-2 to their initial positions (i.e., positions where the rotatable components 131-1 or 131-2 are not driven by the closing movement of the first circuit breaker 200 or 300) when the first circuit breaker 200 or 300 is changed from a closed state to an open state. With the help of the elastic components 135-1 and 135-2, when the first circuit breaker 200 or 300 is disconnected, the transmission member of the intermediate assembly 130 can automatically return to the initial position to avoid triggering the locking of another circuit breaker without additional driving.

[0056] For example, the limiting elements 136-1 and 136-2 may include pins or bolts fixed to the support member 138. These pins or bolts are inserted into the long holes in the transmission arms 132-1, 132-2, 133-1 and 133-2, respectively. In this way, the transmission arms 132-1, 132-2, 133-1 and 133-2 can only rotate within a predetermined range depending on the position of the pins or bolts and the length of the long holes. Alternatively, the limiting components 136-1 and 136-2 may also be implemented in other suitable ways, as long as the rotation range of the first rotatable component 131-1 or 131-2 relative to the support member 138 is limited.

[0057] Reference again Figure 2A and Figure 2B The mechanical interlocking system 100 further includes driving arms 140 and 150 . 4A to 4D 1 shows different views of the driving arm 140 of the mechanical interlocking system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The driving arm 140 has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. The first end of the driving arm 140 is fixed to the main shaft 210 of the first circuit breaker 200, and the second end of the driving arm 140 is adapted to push the first transfer arm 132-1 of the first transfer member 1301 when the main shaft 210 of the first circuit breaker 200 rotates to close the first circuit breaker 200. Similarly, as Figure 2BAs shown, the driving arm 150 has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. The first end of the driving arm 150 is fixed to the main shaft 310 of the second circuit breaker 300, and the second end of the driving arm 150 is suitable for pushing the first transfer arm 132-2 of the second transfer member 1302 when the main shaft 310 of the second circuit breaker 300 rotates to close the second circuit breaker 300. Specifically, during the operation of closing the first circuit breaker 200 or 300, the energy of the energy storage component in the first circuit breaker 200 or 300 is released, thereby rotating the main shaft 210 of the first circuit breaker 200 or the main shaft 310 of the second circuit breaker 300, which in turn drives the driving arm 140 or 150 to rotate, thereby transmitting the closing movement of the first circuit breaker 200 or 300 to the intermediate assembly 130. With such an arrangement, by pushing the transfer arm by the driving arm, the closing movement of the circuit breaker can be effectively transmitted to the intermediate assembly and the interlocking assembly coupled to another circuit breaker in a non-fixed connection manner.

[0058] In some embodiments, the driving arm 140 includes a POM wheel 141 disposed at its second end, and the driving arm 150 includes a POM wheel 151 disposed at its second end. Alternatively, the wheel 141 may be made of other suitable materials such as metal. Compared with wheels made of other materials such as metal, POM wheels are preferred and have the advantages of low friction, high strength, fatigue resistance, good elasticity, etc., thereby effectively improving the reliability and life of the interlocking system 100.

[0059] Next, we will refer to Figures 5A-8B The interlock assemblies 110 and 120 are described in detail.

[0060] Figure 5A A perspective view of an interlocking assembly 110 mounted on a first circuit breaker 200 is shown. The interlocking assembly 110 includes a second rotatable component 111, a linear movable component 112, an input arm 114, and a conversion component 115. The input arm 114 is disposed at one end of the second rotatable component 111, and is configured to be pushed by the second transfer arm 133-2 of the second transfer member 1302. The conversion component 115 is disposed at the other end of the second rotatable component 111, and is configured to convert the rotational motion of the second rotatable component 111 into the linear motion of the linear movable component 112. The linear movable component 112 is configured to move between a locked position corresponding to a locked state of the interlocking assembly 110 and a released position corresponding to a released state of the interlocking assembly 110.

[0061] Figure 5B and Figure 5C They are shown respectively as Figure 5AA stereoscopic view and a front view of the upper portion of the interlock assembly 110 shown. For example, the second rotatable component 111 may include a rotatable shaft and a bracket. The rotatable shaft is rotatably supported by the bracket, and the bracket is fixed to the housing or frame of the first circuit breaker 200. The input arm 114 can be coupled to one end of the rotatable shaft and have a wheel configured to be driven by the second transfer arm 133-2 of the second transfer member 1302. The conversion component 115 is coupled to the other end of the rotatable shaft, and thereby the component 115 can drive the linear movable component 112 to achieve linear motion. In some embodiments, the conversion component 115 includes a cam. The cam can convert the rotational motion into reciprocating linear motion in a simple and reliable manner. Alternatively, the conversion component 115 can also be of other suitable types as long as it can push the linear movable component 112 downward.

[0062] Fig. 6A A perspective view of the interlock assembly 120 mounted on the second circuit breaker 300 is shown. A slight difference between the interlock assembly 120 and the interlock assembly 110 is that the interlock assembly 120 is mounted on the left side of the second circuit breaker 300 to be close to the intermediate assembly 130. Similarly, the interlock assembly 120 includes a second rotatable component 121, a linear movable component 122, an input arm 124, and a conversion component 125. The input arm 124 is arranged at one end of the second rotatable component 121 and is configured to be pushed by the second transfer arm 133-1 of the first transfer member 1301. The conversion component 125 is arranged at the other end of the second rotatable component 121 and is configured to convert the rotational motion of the second rotatable component 121 into the linear motion of the linear movable component 122. The linear movable component 122 is configured to move between a locked position corresponding to the locked state of the interlock assembly 120 and a released position corresponding to the released state of the interlock assembly 120.

[0063] Figure 6B and Figure 6C They are shown respectively as Fig. 6A A stereoscopic view and a front view of the upper portion of the interlock assembly 120 shown. For example, the second rotatable component 121 may include a rotatable shaft and a bracket. The rotatable shaft is rotatably supported by the bracket, and the bracket is fixed to the housing or frame of the second circuit breaker 300. The input arm 124 can be coupled to one end of the rotatable shaft and have a wheel configured to be driven by the second transfer arm 133-1 of the first transfer member 1301. The conversion component 125 is coupled to the other end of the rotatable shaft, and thereby the component 125 can drive the linear movable component 122 to achieve linear motion. In some embodiments, the conversion component 125 includes a cam. The cam can convert the rotational motion into reciprocating linear motion in a simple and reliable manner. Alternatively, the conversion component 125 can also be of other suitable types as long as it can push the linear movable component 122 downward.

[0064] refer to FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C and FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C In some embodiments, the first interlock assembly 110 further includes an elastic component 116 and a limiting element 118 , and the second interlock assembly 120 further includes an elastic component 126 and a limiting element 128 .

[0065] The elastic member 116 is coupled to the second rotatable member 111 and is configured to reset the second rotatable member 111 in response to the second circuit breaker 300 changing from a closed state to an open state. Similarly, the elastic member 126 is coupled to the second rotatable member 121 and is configured to reset the second rotatable member 121 in response to the first circuit breaker 200 changing from a closed state to an open state. For example, the elastic members 116, 126 may be coil springs respectively wound around the shafts of the members 111 and 121 and fixed to the brackets of the members 111 and 121. Alternatively, the elastic members 116 and 126 may also be any other suitable elastic members.

[0066] The limiting element 118 is configured to limit the rotation range of the rotatable component 111 of the interlocking assembly 110. Similarly, the limiting element 128 is configured to limit the rotation range of the rotatable component 121 of the interlocking assembly 120. For example, each of the limiting elements 118 and 128 includes a pin fixed to the shaft of the rotatable component 111 or 121 and another pin fixed to the bracket of the rotatable component 111 or 121. With the cooperation of these pins, the rotation range of the shaft of the component 111 or 121 can be limited. It should be understood that other types of limiting elements can also be provided to achieve the limitation of the rotation range, or the pins can be set at other positions, or more pins can be arranged to achieve various limitation ranges.

[0067] Fig. 7A A perspective view of the linearly movable components 112 and 122 of the interlocking assemblies 110 and 120 is shown, and Figure 7B and Figure 7C A partial perspective view of the linear movable components 112 and 122 of the interlocking assemblies 110 and 120 is shown. The linear movable component 112 includes a telescopic element 1121 and at least one tubular element 1122 and 1123 configured to accommodate and guide the telescopic element 1121, and the linear movable component 122 includes a telescopic element 1221 and at least one tubular element 1222 and 1223 configured to accommodate and guide the telescopic element 1221. As an example, as Fig. 7AThe illustrated linear movable member 112 or 122 includes two tubular elements, one of which is located at an upper position adjacent to the switching member 115 or 125, and the other tubular element is located at a lower position adjacent to the operating element of the circuit breaker 200 or 300. In this way, both ends of the linear movable member 112 or 122 can be accurately positioned so as to couple with the switching member 115 or 125 and the operating element of the circuit breaker 200 or 300.

[0068] The interlocking assemblies 110 and 120 may include elastic members 117 and 127, respectively. The elastic member 117 of the assembly 110 is configured to reset the linear movable member 112 to the release position in response to the second circuit breaker 300 changing from the closed state to the open state, and the elastic member 127 of the assembly 120 is configured to reset the linear movable member 122 to the release position in response to the first circuit breaker 200 changing from the closed state to the open state. For example, the elastic member 117 or 127 may be a coil spring. One end of the coil spring is fixed to the telescopic element 1121 or 1221, and the other end of the coil spring is fixed to the tubular member 1123 or 1223 (which is fixed to the housing or frame of the first circuit breaker 200 or 300). As a result, when the conversion member 115 or 125 presses the telescopic element 1121 or 1221 downward, the coil spring may be deformed, and when the downward force from the conversion member 115 or 125 is removed, the coil spring pushes the telescopic element 1121 or 1221 back to the initial position.

[0069] Fig. 8A A perspective view of the linearly movable member 112 and the first circuit breaker 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 8B Shows Fig. 8A The linear movable member 112 and the first circuit breaker 200 are partially enlarged. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B An exemplary operation of interlocking the first circuit breaker 200 by the mechanical interlocking system 100 is described. As described above, during closing of the second circuit breaker 300, the main shaft 310 of the second circuit breaker 300 rotates due to the closing operation, and thereby the driving arm 150 pushes the first transfer arm 132-2 of the intermediate assembly 130. Then, the second transfer arm 133-2 of the intermediate assembly 130 is driven via the rotatable component 131-2, and further pushes the arm 114 of the interlocking assembly 110 to rotate. Then, the conversion component 115 is driven by the rotatable component 111. Thereafter, the conversion component 115 pushes the linear movable component 112 (e.g., the telescopic element 1121) downward. As Fig. 8A and Figure 8BAs shown, the linear movable member 112 (e.g., telescopic element 1121) is moved to press against the upper surface 221 of the slider 220 in the first circuit breaker 200. Under the force from the linear movable member 112, the slider 220 also moves downward and pushes the opening shaft 230 in the recess 222 of the slider 220. The opening shaft 230 then moves downward to deviate from the Figure 8B The first circuit breaker 200 is in the initial position shown. Due to this deviation of the opening shaft 230, the closing operation of the first circuit breaker 200 cannot be triggered, for example, if the operator presses the "Push ON" button, the first circuit breaker 200 will not be closed. In addition, when the second circuit breaker 300 is changed from closed to open, the driving arm 150 rotates back to the initial position, and then the rotatable part 131-2 of the intermediate assembly 130 will be reset by the elastic part 135-2, and the rotatable part 111 of the interlocking assembly 110 will also be reset by the elastic part 116. In addition, the telescopic element 1121 of the linear movable part 112 is moved upward by another elastic part 117. Since the force from the linear movable part 112 is removed, the slider 220 and the opening shaft 230 return to the initial position through the reset element (e.g., spring) in the first circuit breaker 200, so that the first circuit breaker 200 is in a state where it can be closed. When the first circuit breaker 200 is closed or returned to open, the mechanical interlock system 100 will perform a similar operation, thereby locking the second circuit breaker 300 or unlocking the second circuit breaker 300 .

[0070] By means of the mechanical interlocking system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the circuit breakers cannot be closed at the same time under any circumstances. The interlocking between the circuit breakers is realized in a relatively simple and reliable manner. In addition, this interlocking system does not affect the operation of the circuit breakers entering and exiting the switchgear or switch cabinet.

[0071] Fig. 9A FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a switchgear 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The switchgear 10 includes a first circuit breaker 200, a second circuit breaker 300, and a mechanical interlocking system 100 ( Fig. 9A ). The mechanical interlock system 100 is coupled to the first circuit breaker 200 and the second circuit breaker 300 to prevent the first circuit breaker 200 and the second circuit breaker 300 from being closed at the same time. For example, the switchgear 10 may include a housing 400 including at least two cabinets configured to accommodate the first circuit breaker 200 and the second circuit breaker 300, respectively. Alternatively, the switchgear 10 may be a combination of two switch cabinets close to each other, and each switch cabinet has a housing and accommodates a corresponding circuit breaker 200 or 300. Fig. 9B and Fig. 9C1 is a schematic view showing the internal structure of the housing 400 of the switchgear 10. The intermediate assembly 130 of the mechanical interlocking system 100 is installed between the cabinets for accommodating the first circuit breaker 200 and the second circuit breaker 300. In addition, the interlocking assembly 110 of the mechanical interlocking system 100 may be installed in the cabinet for accommodating the first circuit breaker 200, and the second interlocking assembly 120 of the mechanical interlocking system 100 may be installed in the cabinet for accommodating the second circuit breaker 300.

[0072] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the switch device 10 may be an automatic transfer switch (ATS) device. For example, the ATS device may be a medium voltage device and may be used as an incoming automatic transfer switch with a selective line fault protection function, or may be used alone as a dedicated dual power transfer switch. The ATS device may provide automatic monitoring and management of the power supply status, accurate judgment, and rapid conversion to ensure the quality and continuity of the power supply to the device.

[0073] Although several inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, a person of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision various other devices and / or structures for performing functions and / or obtaining results and / or one or more advantages described herein, and each of such changes and / or modifications is considered to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are exemplary, and that actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations will depend on one or more specific applications for which the teachings of the present disclosure are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to determine many equivalents of the specific inventive embodiments described herein using only routine experiments. Therefore, it should be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented only as examples, and within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents, the inventive embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced in a manner different from that specifically described and claimed. The inventive embodiments of the present disclosure relate to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and / or method described herein. In addition, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods are not mutually contradictory, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods is included within the scope of the invention disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A mechanical interlocking system (100), comprising: a first interlock assembly (110) coupled to the first circuit breaker (200) and switchable between a locked state and a released state, wherein the first interlock assembly (110) prevents the first circuit breaker (200) from closing in the locked state and allows the first circuit breaker (200) to close in the released state; a second interlock assembly (120) coupled to the second circuit breaker (300) and switchable between a locked state and a released state, wherein the second interlock assembly (120) prevents the second circuit breaker (300) from closing in the locked state and allows the second circuit breaker (300) to close in the released state; as well as An intermediate component (130) is arranged between the first circuit breaker (200) and the second circuit breaker (300) and comprises: a first transmission member (1301) arranged to couple the first circuit breaker (200) to the second interlock assembly (120), and configured to switch the second interlock assembly (120) to the locked state in response to the first circuit breaker (200) being closed; a second transmission member (1302) arranged to couple the second circuit breaker (300) to the first interlock assembly (110) and configured to switch the first interlock assembly (110) to the locked state in response to the second circuit breaker (300) being closed; and a supporting member (138) arranged to support the first transfer member (1301) and the second transfer member (1302) in a rotatable connection manner, Each of the first transmission component (1301) and the second transmission component (1302) comprises: a first rotatable component (131-1, 131-2) supported by the support member (138) and rotatable relative to the support member (138); A first transmission arm (132-1, 132-2) is arranged at one end of the first rotatable component (131-1, 131-2); and The second transmission arm (133-1, 133-2) is arranged at the other end of the first rotatable component (131-1, 131-2).

2. The mechanical interlocking system (100) according to claim 1, wherein The first transmission member (1301) is configured to be coupled to the first circuit breaker (200) and the second interlock assembly (120) in a non-fixed connection manner, The second transfer member (1302) is configured to be coupled to the second circuit breaker (300) and the first interlock assembly (110) in a non-fixed connection manner.

3. The mechanical interlock system (100) of claim 1, wherein the support member (138) comprises at least two separable parts.

4. The mechanical interlocking system (100) according to claim 1, wherein each of the first transmission member (1301) and the second transmission member (1302) further comprises: a first elastic component (135-1, 135-2) coupled to the first rotatable component (131-1, 131-2) and the support member (138) and configured to reset the first rotatable component (131-1, 131-2) in response to the corresponding circuit breaker changing from a closed state to an open state; as well as A first limiting element (136-1, 136-2) is configured to limit a rotation range of the first rotatable component (131-1, 131-2) relative to the support member (138).

5. The mechanical interlocking system (100) according to claim 1, further comprising: a first driving arm (140) having a first end fixed to a main shaft (210) of the first circuit breaker (200) and a second end opposite to the first end, the second end being adapted to push the first transfer arm (132-1) of the first transfer member (1301) when the main shaft (210) of the first circuit breaker (200) rotates to close the first circuit breaker (200); as well as A second driving arm (150) has a first end fixed to a main shaft (310) of the second circuit breaker (300) and a second end opposite to the first end, wherein the second end is adapted to push the first transfer arm (132-2) of the second transfer member (1302) when the main shaft (310) of the second circuit breaker (300) rotates to close the second circuit breaker (300).

6. The mechanical interlocking system (100) according to claim 5, wherein each of the first driving arm (140) and the second driving arm (150) includes a POM wheel (141, 151) arranged at the second end thereof.

7. The mechanical interlocking system (100) according to claim 1, wherein each of the first interlocking assembly (110) and the second interlocking assembly (120) comprises: A second rotatable element (111, 121); a linearly movable member (112, 122) configured to move between a locked position corresponding to the locked state and a released position corresponding to the released state; an input arm (114, 124) disposed at one end of the second rotatable component (111, 121) and configured to be pushed by the second transfer arm (133-1, 133-2) of the corresponding transfer member; as well as A conversion component (115, 125) is arranged at the other end of the second rotatable component (111, 121) and is configured to convert the rotational motion of the second rotatable component (111, 121) into the linear motion of the linear movable component (112, 122).

8. The mechanical interlocking system (100) according to claim 7, wherein each of the first interlocking assembly (110) and the second interlocking assembly (120) further comprises: a second elastic member (116, 126) coupled to the second rotatable member (111, 121) and configured to reset the second rotatable member (111, 121) in response to the corresponding circuit breaker changing from a closed state to an open state, a second limiting element (118, 128) configured to limit the rotation range of the second rotatable component (111, 121); as well as A third elastic member (117, 127) is configured to reset the linearly movable member (112, 122) to the released position in response to the corresponding circuit breaker changing from the closed state to the open state.

9. The mechanical interlock system (100) of claim 7, wherein the linearly movable member (112, 122) comprises: Telescopic element (1121, 1221); as well as At least one tubular element (1122, 1222, 1123, 1223) is configured to accommodate and guide the telescopic element (1121, 1221).

10. The mechanical interlock system (100) of claim 7, wherein the switching component (115, 125) comprises a cam.

11. A switch device (10), comprising: A first circuit breaker (200); A second circuit breaker (300); as well as A mechanical interlock system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, coupled to the first circuit breaker (200) and the second circuit breaker (300) to prevent the first circuit breaker (200) and the second circuit breaker (300) from being closed at the same time.

12. The switchgear (10) according to claim 11, wherein the switchgear (10) is an automatic transfer switch (ATS) device.

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