Frame arrangement for an extracted electrical switchgear and an assembly comprising the frame arrangement and an extracted electrical switchgear

Abstract

The invention relates to a frame device for a draw-out electrical switchgear, the device comprising a frame (C) able to receive a draw-out electrical switchgear (D) and a plug-in system comprising a transmission mechanism (1), a removable operating member (2) actuating the transmission mechanism, a main locking mechanism (4) comprising a second movable locking member (4b) able to be manually moved between a first position locking a first locking member (4a) in a closed position to prevent the insertion of the operating member (2) and a second position releasing the locking member, and an additional locking mechanism (5). The second locking member is able to cooperate with the additional locking mechanism and, when the first locking member is in an open position able to insert the operating member, the second locking member is able to be manually moved to a third position by cooperating actuation of the additional locking mechanism (5) in order to put the locking mechanism in an unlocked state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electrical switching devices, and more particularly to withdrawable electrical switching devices such as withdrawable circuit breakers, and to a rack assembly for withdrawable electrical switching devices and an assembly including the rack assembly and such switching devices. Background Technology

[0002] Withdrawable electrical switching devices of the withdrawable circuit breaker type (hereinafter referred to as switching devices) are designed and configured to be inserted into the internal space of a fixed frame when functionally (i.e., mechanically and electrically) connected to the fixed frame, and removed from the fixed frame after the mechanical and electrical connections are disconnected.

[0003] For this purpose, the mounting frame has a box or frame shape, with the rear of the mounting frame including a main connection terminal for electrical connection to a power distribution network and a secondary connection terminal for electrical connection to a low-voltage power supply. The front of the mounting frame includes an inlet hole for inserting a switching device into the mounting frame by a sliding motion. The switching device has a main connector for connecting to the main connection terminal and a secondary connector for connecting to the secondary connection terminal when the switching device is functionally inserted into the frame.

[0004] In order to slidably insert the switching device into the frame, the frame includes sidewalls, on the inner surface of which are provided sliding elements, which are designed to support and guide the translational movement of the switching device between a pull-out position outside the frame and an insertion position inside the frame using sliding or rolling devices such as rollers.

[0005] The frame also includes a plug-in system comprising a transmission mechanism. This transmission mechanism includes a main shaft or drive shaft, a secondary shaft or driven shaft, and a transmission device that connects the shafts together, such that rotation of the drive shaft causes rotation of the driven shaft via the transmission device. The driven shaft is located at the rear of the frame, extending perpendicularly to the drive shaft and a side wall with sliding elements. The transmission device includes, on one hand, a gear (pinion) axially connected to the driven shaft, and on the other hand, a worm gear meshing with the gear. The worm gear is integral with or fastened to the drive shaft, such that rotation of the drive shaft drives rotation of the worm gear and the gear, which in turn drives rotation of the driven shaft rigidly connected to the gear.

[0006] The insertion system also includes a removable crank-type operating member for operating the transmission mechanism. For this purpose, the crank is inserted into an operating opening at the front of the frame, aligned with the drive shaft. When the crank is functionally inserted into the operating opening, it is functionally connected to the drive shaft, such that rotation of the crank causes rotation of the drive shaft, thereby actuating the transmission mechanism.

[0007] The driven shaft is connected to a switching device inserted into a frame via a connecting device such as a cam, so as to convert the rotational motion of the driven shaft into a translational motion of the switching device within the frame. This translational motion is relative to the frame along a translation axis perpendicular to the rotational axis of the driven shaft and parallel to the rotational axis of the drive shaft. This translational motion is made possible by the presence of a sliding element in the side wall of the frame.

[0008] When the crank of the operating transmission mechanism rotates, the switching device functionally inserted into the frame moves between three positions or states within the frame: a connected or plugged position or state in which the withdrawable circuit breaker is connected to both the main and auxiliary connection terminals of the frame; a disconnected position or state (referred to as the open or withdrawn position or state) in which the withdrawable circuit breaker is not connected to either the main or auxiliary connection terminals and can therefore be removed from the frame; and an intermediate position or state (referred to as the test position or state) in which the status of the switching device can be tested or checked, and the switching device is only connected to the auxiliary connection terminal, i.e., the switching device is not connected to the main connection terminal.

[0009] The insertion system also includes a main locking mechanism comprising a first locking member in the form of a plate extending along a vertical axis. This first locking member is vertically movable, i.e., perpendicular to the drive and driven shafts, when the drive and driven shafts are in a horizontal plane. The first locking member is mounted at the front of the frame and can be moved to a low position, referred to as a closed position, and a high position, referred to as an open position. The low position closes the operating opening and prevents the crank from being inserted into the operating opening when locked in the closed position, while the high position allows the crank to be inserted. The first locking member automatically returns to the closed position by a spring. After the first locking member is released from the closed position, it enters the open position when the crank is inserted into the operating opening through a engagement between the crank and a ramp-shaped or cam-shaped element or surface engaged in the lower part of the first locking member.

[0010] The main locking mechanism includes, on one hand, a generally key-shaped second locking member, which includes a head allowing the second locking member to be gripped by an operator, and a rod extending substantially perpendicularly to the first locking member into the frame, the rod being capable of engaging with the first locking member. The engagement between the rod and the plate of the first locking member is achieved through the engagement between the walls of recesses or holes formed in the first and second locking members. The head is provided with an eyelet designed to receive a ring from a conventional padlock. The rod is also capable of engaging with a slider disposed within the frame to allow the second locking member to translate horizontally parallel to the drive shaft.

[0011] Therefore, the second locking member can move to a first position to lock the first locking member in a closed position through the engagement, and can move to a second position to release the first locking member from the closed position, thereby allowing the first locking member to move to an open position. In the open position of the first locking member, corresponding to the second position of the second locking member, the engagement prevents the second locking member from moving to the first position. Due to the pull-out position of the head containing the eyelet, the first position of the second locking member also allows the padlock to be inserted into the eyelet. Therefore, the first position of the second locking member with the padlock prevents the drive shaft from being actuated by a crank that cannot be inserted into the operating opening closed by the first locking member locked in the closed position, and prevents the first locking member locked by the padlock from moving to the second position, thereby securing the frame.

[0012] Finally, to enhance rack security, the plug-in system also includes an additional locking mechanism that prevents kinematic movement of the transmission mechanism in the locked state and allows such movement in the unlocked state. This additional locking mechanism typically includes a locking button located below the operating opening, which can be manually pressed into a depressed position within the rack, thereby unlocking the additional locking mechanism via a connection and drive mechanism.

[0013] For example, FR2773648 describes and illustrates one such component including such a rack assembly and a switching device.

[0014] However, in such a rack-mounted device, the additional locking mechanism can be activated and thus unlocked when the first key locking member is in the first position (i.e., the padlock locked position) or even in the second position, which does not provide optimal security. Furthermore, the additional locking mechanism, actuated by a locking button located in addition to the first and second locking members, increases the system cost and complicates the actuation of the additional locking mechanism. Summary of the Invention

[0015] The object of the present invention is to overcome these disadvantages by providing a rack assembly for a withdrawable electrical switchgear that ensures optimal safety while simplifying operation and reducing the cost of additional locking mechanisms.

[0016] For this purpose, a rack assembly for a withdrawable electrical switchgear includes: a rack designed to receive the withdrawable electrical switchgear; and a plug-in system mounted in the rack, comprising: a mechanical transmission mechanism designed to be functionally connected to such a switchgear inserted into the rack and actuated in a plurality of transmission positions, each transmission position corresponding to a functional position of the switchgear; a removable operating member for actuating the transmission mechanism when functionally inserted into an operating opening in the rack; and a main locking mechanism including a first locking member and a second locking member, the first locking member being movable between a closed position preventing the operating member from being inserted into the operating opening and an open position allowing the insertion, and the second locking member being movable between a closed position preventing the operating member from being inserted into the operating opening and an open position allowing the insertion. The device is capable of being manually moved between a first position that locks the first locking member in a closed position and a second position that releases the first locking member; and an additional locking mechanism that is movable to each transmission position, wherein, on the one hand, when the first locking member is in either the first or the second position, the additional locking mechanism is in a locked state that prevents kinematic movement of the transmission mechanism, and on the other hand, the additional locking mechanism is in an unlocked state that allows said movement. Its essential feature is that a second locking member can engage with the additional locking member, and when the first locking member is in the open position, the second locking member can be manually moved to a third position, thereby actuating the additional locking mechanism through said engagement to bring the locking mechanism into an unlocked state.

[0017] The present invention also relates to an assembly comprising a rack assembly and a withdrawable electrical switch, the rack assembly comprising a frame receiving the withdrawable electrical switch and a plug-in system mounted in the frame, characterized in that the rack assembly is a rack assembly according to the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The invention will be better understood from the following description relating to preferred embodiments, which are given as non-limiting examples and explained with reference to the accompanying schematic diagrams, wherein: Figure 1 This is a partial perspective view of the rack assembly according to the invention, showing a configuration where the second locking member is in a second position or depressed and the first locking member is in an open position by functional insertion of the operating member into the operating opening, and a configuration where the transmission mechanism can be continuously moved to three transmission positions (the three transmission positions respectively correspond to the off position, test position, or connected position of a withdrawable electrical switch device functionally inserted into the rack), the transmission mechanism being shown in the transmission position corresponding to the test position, in which the kinematic movement of the transmission mechanism is locked by an additional locking mechanism in a locked state. Figure 2 yes Figure 1The top view of the frame assembly shown indicates that the operating member is not inserted into the operating opening, and the first locking member is in a closed position by the action of a spring. The transmission mechanism is configured to be in a transmission position corresponding to the open position, in which the kinematic movement of the transmission mechanism is locked by an additional locking mechanism that is in a locked state. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Detailed perspective view of the first and second locking members of the rack assembly shown. Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 In the rack assembly, the second locking member moves to the first position, is in an unlocked state, and is no longer in contact with the connecting assembly. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A detailed perspective view of the rack assembly shown. Figure 6 It shows Figure 2 The frame assembly includes an operating member inserted into an operating opening, and a first locking member moving to an open position due to the insertion of the locking member. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A detailed view of the frame assembly shows the engagement between the lever of the second operating member and the first operating member, thereby preventing the second operating member from moving to the first position. Figure 8 yes Figure 6 The top view of the rack assembly shows a configuration where the second locking member is manually moved / pressed to the third position, thereby unlocking the additional locking mechanism. Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Detailed view of the rack assembly shown. Figure 10 It shows Figure 8 The rack assembly in which the additional locking mechanism is in the unlocked state, and the transmission mechanism has been actuated by the operating component and the transmission mechanism is in Figure 8 The transmission position corresponding to the disconnection position shown in the figure and Figure 1 The diagram shows the construction between the next transmission position and the test position. Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Detailed view of the rack assembly shown. Figure 12 It shows Figure 10 The frame assembly is in a transmission position corresponding to the test position and the locked state of the additional locking mechanism, while the second locking member has been automatically moved from the third position to the second position by the return device actuating the connecting assembly. Figure 13This is a perspective view of the frame assembly according to the present invention, without operating components. Figure 14 This is a perspective view of a component according to the present invention, the component comprising... Figure 10 The rack assembly shown includes a withdrawable electrical switch device designed to be functionally inserted into the internal space of the rack of the rack assembly. Figure 15 This is a partial perspective view of the rack assembly's plug-in system. Figure 16 It shows from different angles Figure 15 The plug-in system in the middle. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The accompanying drawings illustrate a rack assembly for a withdrawable electrical switchgear according to the present invention, the rack assembly comprising a rack C and a plug-in system mounted in the rack C, the rack C being designed to receive a withdrawable electrical switchgear D (hereinafter referred to as switchgear D).

[0020] The plug-in system includes: - A mechanical transmission mechanism 1, designed to be functionally connected to the switching device D after being inserted into the frame C, and to move between multiple transmission positions, each corresponding to a functional position of the switching device D inserted into the frame C. - The removable operating component 2, when functionally inserted into the operating opening 3 of the frame C, can actuate the transmission mechanism 1. - The main locking mechanism 4 includes, on one hand, a first locking member 4a, which is movable between a position preventing the operating member 2 from being inserted into the operating opening 3 (referred to as the closed position) and a position allowing said insertion (referred to as the open position). On the other hand, the main locking mechanism 4 includes a second movable locking member 4b, which is manually movable between a first position locking the first locking member 4a in the closed position and a second position releasing the first locking member. - An additional locking mechanism 5, which in each transmission position, on the one hand, can be in a locked state to prevent kinematic movement of the transmission mechanism 1 when the first locking member 4a is in the first or second position, and on the other hand, can be in an unlocked state to allow said kinematic movement.

[0021] According to the present invention, the second locking member 4b can cooperate with the additional locking mechanism 5, and when the first locking member 4a is in the open position, the second locking member 4b can be manually moved to a third position, thereby actuating the additional locking mechanism 5 through the cooperation so that the additional locking mechanism is in the unlocked state.

[0022] The transmission mechanism 1 can be connected to the switching device D using a known connecting device not shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0023] Figure 13 and Figure 14 The fixed rack C is shown to have a box or frame shape in a known manner. The rear of the fixed rack C includes a main connection terminal (not shown) for electrical connection to a power distribution network and a secondary connection terminal 6 for electrical connection to a low-voltage power supply. The front of the fixed rack includes an inlet hole C2 for inserting a switching device D into a receiving space C3 within the fixed rack. The switching device D (e.g., a withdrawable circuit breaker) has a main connector for connection to the main connection terminal and a secondary connector for connection to the secondary connection terminal when the switching device D is functionally inserted into the rack C.

[0024] Therefore, the switch device D, functionally inserted into the frame C, can move in a known manner between multiple functional positions within the frame C when, for example, the operating member 2 of the crank is rotated to actuate the transmission mechanism 1, and preferably between three functional positions. Specifically, the three functional positions are: a connected or plugged-in position, in which the switch device D is connected to both the main connection terminal and the secondary connection terminal 6; a withdrawn or disconnected position, in which the switch device D is neither connected to the main connection terminal nor the secondary connection terminal and can therefore be removed from the frame C; and a test or intermediate position, in which the state of the switch device D can be tested or checked, and in which the switch device D is connected only to the secondary connection terminal, i.e., the switch device D is not connected to the main connection terminal.

[0025] In order to insert the switch device D into the frame C, similar to known frames, the frame may include a vertically extending sidewall C10, and a slider 7 is provided on the inner surface of the sidewall C10. The slider is designed to support and guide the translational movement of the pull-out electrical switch device D between a pull-out position outside the frame and an insertion position in the frame C by means of a sliding or rolling device such as a roller.

[0026] According to the present invention, the additional locking mechanism 5 may include: - Movable locking components 5a, 5b, and 5c are designed to move to a locked state and a released state. In the locked state, kinematic movement of the transmission mechanism 1 is prevented by locking the additional locking mechanism 5; in the released state, kinematic movement is achieved by unlocking the additional locking mechanism 5. - Connecting components 5d and 5e are designed to mate with the second locking member 4b and are connected to the locking components 5a, 5b, and 5c. -Return device 5f, The connecting components 5d and 5e can be actuated by the second locking member 4b when the second locking member 4b moves to the third position, so as to move the locking components 5a, 5b, and 5c to the released state, and can be actuated by the return device 5f, so as to move the locking components 5a, 5b, and 5c to the locked state.

[0027] As is known from existing devices, the locking states of locking components 5a, 5b, and 5c are automatically achieved at each transmission position, and the transmission position can be changed by manual release.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the connecting components 5d and 5e cooperate with the second locking member 4b such that after the connecting components 5d and 5e are actuated to drive the locking components 5a, 5b, and 5c into a locked state, the second locking member 4b automatically moves from the third position to the second position via the return device 5f.

[0029] In known embodiments, the transmission mechanism 1 may include: a drive shaft 1a extending along the axis of the operating opening 3, the drive shaft 1a being designed to connect to the operating member 2 when the operating member 2 is functionally inserted into the operating opening 3; a driven shaft 1b having a rotation axis X1 perpendicular to the rotation axis X2 of the drive shaft 1a, thereby enabling functional connection to the withdrawable electrical switch device D; and a transmission device 1c connecting the drive shaft 1a to the driven shaft 1b such that rotation of the drive shaft 1a when actuated by the operating member 2 causes rotation of the driven shaft 1b.

[0030] Similarly, in a known manner, when the switching device is inserted into the frame, the driven shaft 1b can be connected to the switching device D using a connecting device such as a cam 8, so as to convert the rotational motion of the driven shaft 1b into a translational motion of the switching device D within the frame. This translational motion is relative to the frame along a translational axis perpendicular to the rotational axis X1 of the driven shaft 1b and parallel to the rotational axis X2 of the drive shaft 1a. The translational motion can be achieved by providing a slider 7 in the frame C.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment of the transmission mechanism 1 according to the invention, the locking components 5a, 5b, 5c may be configured to prevent rotation of the driven shaft 1b and / or the drive shaft 1a when in a locked state, and to allow such rotation when in a released state.

[0032] In preferred embodiments of locking components 5a, 5b, and 5c, the locking components may include: - At least one first locking portion 5a, which is restricted to rotate together with the driven shaft 1b, and is provided with a plurality of recesses 50a, 51a, 52a, each recess being indexed to a corresponding drive position (i.e., each recess corresponds to a corresponding drive position), and / or - a second locking portion 5b, which is restricted to rotate together with the drive shaft 1b, and is provided with a plurality of recesses 50b, each recess being indexed to a corresponding drive position, and - At least one locking lever 5c, which cooperates with one or more first locking parts 5a and second locking parts 5b, and is provided with a first locking element 50c and / or a second locking element 51c.

[0033] The first locking element 50c and / or the second locking element 51c may be, for example, lugs, teeth, or hooks.

[0034] Each or every locking lever 5c can be connected to connecting assemblies 5d and 5e so that it can be driven to the following position by actuation of the connecting assemblies 5d and 5e: - First moving position, in which locking components 5a, 5b, 5c are moved to a locked state, wherein the first locking element 50c is inserted into one or more recesses 50a, 51a, 52a of the first locking portion 5a and / or the second locking element 51c is inserted into one recess 50b, 51b, 52b of the second locking portion 5b, and - Second moving position, in which locking components 5a, 5b, 5c move to the released state, and wherein the first locking element 50c disengages from the corresponding recesses 50a, 51a, 52a and / or the second locking element 51c disengages from the corresponding recesses 50b, 51b, 52b.

[0035] In a known manner, the transmission device 1c may include a worm gear 10c rigidly connected to the drive shaft 1a and a pinion gear 11c rigidly connected to the driven shaft 1b, or other similar components such as gear 11c. Furthermore, the locking assemblies 5a, 5b, 5c may include a pair of locking rods 5c extending on both sides of the pinion gear 11c and a pair of first locking portions 5a extending on both sides of the transmission device 1c, such that one locking rod of the locking rod 5c engages with one of the first locking portions 5a, and the other locking rod 5c engages with the other first locking portion 5a.

[0036] Preferably, each locking lever 5c is pivotally mounted about a pivot axis X3 parallel to the rotation axis X1 of the driven shaft 1b, and is located between the drive shaft 1a and the second locking member 4b. Furthermore, each locking lever 5c may include two locking ends located on either side of its pivot axis X3, one end of which includes a first locking element 50c, and the other end includes a second locking element 51c.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the first locking portion 5a may be disc-shaped or cylindrical with an axis coinciding with the rotation axis X1 of the driven shaft 1b, and the second locking portion 5b may be disc-shaped or cylindrical with an axis coinciding with the rotation axis X2 of the drive shaft 1a. Furthermore, the first locking portion 5a, or each of the recesses 50a, 51a, 52a may be formed in its circumferential surface, and the second locking portion 5b, or each of the recesses 50a, 51a, 52a, may be formed in the surface of the second locking portion 5b perpendicular to the rotation axis X2 of the drive shaft 1a.

[0038] Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 In a preferred embodiment of the connecting components 5d and 5e according to the invention, the connecting components may include a rotating star portion 5d and a transmission element 5e. The rotating star portion has a rotating center body 50d mounted to rotate about a rotation axis X4, which is preferably parallel to the rotation axis X1 of the driven shaft 1b. The rotating center body 50d carries at least two connecting arms 51d, 52d, and 53d extending radially from the rotating center body 50d. Specifically, the first connecting arm 51d is connected to the locking components 5a, 5b, and 5c via the transmission element 5e, and the second connecting arm 52d is designed to engage with the second locking member 4b by contacting it, such that movement of the second locking member 4b to a third position causes the rotating center body 50d to rotate along a first direction R1, thereby driving the locking components 5a, 5b, and 5c to a released position. Furthermore, the return device 5f can rotate the rotating star-shaped part 5d along a second rotation direction R2 opposite to the first rotation direction R1, so as to automatically drive the locking components 5a, 5b, and 5c into the locking position.

[0039] The first locking member 4a can move in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis X2 of the drive shaft 1a and the rotation axis X1 of the driven shaft 1b, and the second locking member 4b can move in a direction parallel to the rotation axis X2 of the drive shaft 1a.

[0040] The frame C may include a mounting wall C1 perpendicular to the driven shaft 5b, and a transmission mechanism 1 is mounted on the mounting wall C1. This mounting wall may form one of the side walls of the frame C, including the slider 7, preferably on the inner side. More specifically, the transmission mechanism 1 is mounted on the outer surface of the mounting wall C10 opposite to the inner surface of the mounting wall C10, which includes the slider.

[0041] Furthermore, the second locking member 4b is preferably slidably mounted in a sliding groove C10 formed in the mounting wall C1 and extending parallel to the drive shaft 5a, thereby moving relative to the fixed frame C to the first, second, and third positions. Therefore, compared to existing frames that only have sliding grooves for the first and second positions, the sliding groove C10 of the frame C according to the invention is designed to allow the second locking member 4b to slide to the third position.

[0042] The return device 5f may, for example, be or include, as such Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 The spring shown is a tension spring or a compression spring. In this case, as shown, the rotation center body 50d according to the invention may have a third arm 53d connected to the return device 5f, which includes a tension spring or compression spring fastened to the frame C and, where appropriate, to the mounting wall C1. In another embodiment not shown in the figures, the return device 5f may include a torsion spring connected to the rotation center body 50d to apply pressure directly to the rotation center body. In this final embodiment of the return device 5f including a torsion spring, the rotation center body 50d does not require such a third arm 53d. In another embodiment (not shown), the return device 5f may be a gravity device, but this requires the mounting wall C1 of the frame C to be vertically oriented.

[0043] The second locking member 4b may be key-shaped and has a rod 41b and a head 40b with an eyelet 400b. The rod 41b can cooperate with the first locking member 4a and the additional locking mechanism 5, and, where applicable, with the connecting components 5d and 5e, and, where applicable, with the second connecting arm 52d as defined in claim 9.

[0044] Eyelet 400b allows the second locking member 4b to be locked in the first position, for example, using a conventional padlock (not shown) that is closed on eyelet 400b. Figure 4 and Figure 5 (in order to prevent translational movement from the first position to the second position).

[0045] When the padlock is removed, the second locking member 4b can move to the second position. However, in this second position ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 When the second locking member 4b is in the closed position, it is locked by the first locking member 4a, which prevents the second locking member 4b from moving to the third position, thereby allowing the additional locking mechanism 5 to unlock. The first locking member 4a can prevent translational movement of the second locking member 4b by means of a stop 410b on the rod 41b of the second locking member 4b that abuts against the first locking member 4a. In the open position of the first locking member 4a ( Figure 1 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first locking member 4b can be moved to the second and third positions. In fact, as... Figure 1 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in the open position of the first locking member 4a, the through hole 40a formed in the first locking member 4a is positioned opposite to the stop member 410 so that the stop member can pass through the through hole 40a, thereby allowing the second locking member 4b to translate to the third position.

[0046] The first locking member 4a can be moved from a closed position to an open position by the operating member 2. The operating member is inserted into the operating opening 3 of the frame C via a ramp or cam 41a. The ramp or cam can be provided on the first operating member 4a and cooperate with the operating member 2, such that the movement of the operating member 2 when it is inserted into the frame C causes the first locking member 4a to move toward the open position. Figure 1 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 , Figure 7 , Figure 10 , Figure 9 , Figure 12 When the operating member 2, which has locked the first locking member 4a in the open position, is disengaged from the operating opening 3 ( Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 The first locking member 4a can be returned to the closed position by a spring 42a (e.g., a tension spring). This principle is known in the prior art and will not be described in more detail.

[0047] The present invention also relates to an assembly comprising a rack assembly and a withdrawable electrical switch device D, the rack assembly comprising a frame C for accommodating the withdrawable electrical switch device D and a plug-in system mounted in the frame C.

[0048] According to the present invention, in such a component, the rack assembly includes the rack assembly according to the present invention as described above.

[0049] In operation, the operator wishes to change the position of the transmission mechanism from, for example, the transmission position corresponding to the disconnected position to the next position corresponding to the test position. The operator performs the steps described later starting from the following rack assembly configuration: the second locking member 4b is in the first position after the padlock is removed and before the operating member 2 is inserted into the operating opening 3. Figure 4 and Figure 5 ), and one or more locking elements 50c and / or locking elements 51c of one or more locking rods 5c are respectively inserted into recesses 50a and / or recesses 51a. Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 The disconnection point, as described later above, is as follows: -first( Figure 2 The operator wishes to insert the operating member 1 into the operating opening 3 to actuate the transmission mechanism 1 to change the transmission position. First, the second operating member 4b is manually moved to the second position so that the first locking member 4a can move from the closed position of closing the operating opening 3 to the open position. Then, the stop 410b of the second locking member 4b abuts against the first locking member 4a in the closed position to prevent the second locking member 4b from moving to the third position. -then ( Figure 6 and Figure 7 The operator inserts the operating member 2 into the operating opening 3, which causes the first operating member 4a to move toward the open position via the inclined plane 41a, making way for the stop 410b of the second locking member 4b to allow the second locking member to move to the third position, and allowing the operating member 2 to be inserted into the operating opening 3 in a straight line with the drive shaft 1a to achieve a functional connection with the drive shaft 1a. -then ( Figure 8 and Figure 9 The operator manually moves the second locking member 4b to the third position, causing the rotating star portion 5d to rotate in the first rotation direction R1 (more specifically, counterclockwise) through the push contact between the rod 41b of the second locking member 4b and the connecting arm 52d of the rotating star portion 5d of the connecting assemblies 5d and 5e. This causes one or more locking rods 1c, more specifically a pair of locking rods 1c, to pivot in the pivot direction via the connecting rod 5e of the connecting assemblies 5d and 5e, so that the locking elements 50c and 51c of the one or more locking rods 1c disengage from the corresponding recesses 50a and 50b, thereby unlocking the additional locking mechanism 5 and enabling the transmission mechanism 1 to move kinematically. - Subsequently, in the unlocked state of the additional locking mechanism 5, the operator can operate the operating member 2 to drive the kinematically activated transmission mechanism 1 to the next transmission position corresponding to the test position. Figure 1and Figure 12 During this transition from one location to another ( Figure 10 Under the action of the return device 5f, each locking element 51c contacts the outer peripheral surface of the disc-shaped locking portion 5a, thereby moving the rotating star portion 5d in the opposite direction R2, causing one or more locking rods 5c to move to the locking position. When each locking element 51c reaches and enters the recess 51a of the locking portion 5a corresponding to the test position, the locking position is reached, and the rotation of the rotating star portion 5d in the opposite direction R2 also automatically moves the second locking member 4b to the second position. The operator can then move the second locking member 4b to the first position, or make the locking member standby in the second position, or move the locking member back to the third position to unlock the additional locking mechanism 5, so as to change the transmission position back to the previous transmission position corresponding to the disconnected position or to the next transmission position corresponding to the connected position.

[0050] in particular: Figure 2 The diagram shows the first locking member 4a moved to the closed position by the tension spring 42a, the second locking member 4b moved to the initial position corresponding to the second position, the rotating star-shaped part 5d contacting the free end of the rod 41b of the second locking member 4b via its second connecting arm 52d, and the locking assemblies 5a, 5b, 5c in a locked state by inserting the two locking elements of each locking rod 5c into the corresponding recesses 50a, 50b of the corresponding locking parts 5a, 5b (the recesses 50a, 50b are indexed to the transmission position corresponding to the open position). This locked state locks the additional locking mechanism 5, preventing kinematic movement of the transmission mechanism 1. Figure 3 This illustrates that when the second locking member 4b is in the second position, the stop 410b of the second locking member 4b abuts against the first locking member 4a in the closed position (lower position in the vertical direction), which prevents the second locking member from moving to the third position. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diagram shows the second locking member 4b shifted rearward to the first position, so that the first locking member 4a is locked in the closed position by using the second locking member 4b in the first position, thereby preventing the operating member 2 from being inserted into the operating opening 3. Figure 6 and Figure 7The diagram illustrates how the operating member 2 is inserted into the operating opening 3 by pushing the first locking member 4a to the open position (high position in the vertical direction) using the inclined surface 41a that cooperates with the first locking member 4a. The open position of the first locking member 4a allows the second locking member 4b to move to the third position, thereby allowing the additional locking mechanism 5 to enter the unlocked state. The open position of the first locking member 4a is also achieved by the surface 411b provided on the rod 41b of the second locking member and the surface 411b provided on the first locking member 4a. Figure 7 The wall 43a in the first position contacts the second locking member 4b to prevent it from moving (or disengaging) toward the first position.

[0051] Therefore, this rack device according to the invention enables, for example, the second locking member 4b to be locked in the first position using a conventional padlock to prevent the operating member 2 from being inserted into the operating opening 3 in any transmission position of the transmission mechanism, such as in any of the transmission positions corresponding to the disconnect position, the test position, and the connection position, or to be able to insert the operating member 2 and unlock the transmission mechanism 1 using the second locking member 4b.

[0052] On the other hand, such as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, in order to ensure access to the main connection terminal (not shown in the figure) on the rear surface of the rack C, when the switching device is not inserted into or not plugged into the rack C, the rear of the rack C may include a window 9 facing the main connection terminal and a baffle 10 in a known manner. The baffle 10 can move between a closed position that allows the window to be closed to prevent access to the main connection terminal and an open position to provide access to the main connection terminal.

[0053] Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, in a specific embodiment commonly used in this type of rack assembly, the main connection terminals are mounted in the rear in two rows of stacked main connection terminals (i.e., a top row and a bottom row). In this case, a top baffle 10 is provided for the window 9 of the top row of main connection terminals, and a bottom baffle 10 is provided for the window of the bottom row of main connection terminals. The baffle 10 is movable within the wall baffle support 9a in which the window 9 is formed.

[0054] In a known manner, these rack assemblies equipped with such a fixed baffle 10 may further include a system for controlling the baffle, the system including a generally T-shaped movable button control 11, the button control 11 being in a retracted position in the receiving space C3 of the rack C. Figure 13 and Figure 14The control unit 11 is guided translationally between the pull-out position and the depressed position in the rear. As the switch device slides from the test position toward the rear into the receiving space of the rack C, placing the switch device in the connected position, the movement of the control unit 11 from the pull-out position to the depressed position is achieved by pushing the switch device D onto the control unit. When the circuit breaker is slid into the test position or the open position, or when the circuit breaker is withdrawn from the receiving space of the rack, the control unit 11 can be automatically moved from the depressed position to the withdrawn position using a return device. The control system may include a cam (not shown) that connects the control unit 11 to the baffle 10 and is driven by the movement of the control unit 11. A locking system locks the control unit 11 in the withdrawn position by using a padlock (not shown) that engages with an opening 11a in the control unit 11, thereby locking the baffle and preventing the control unit from being depressed.

[0055] Each baffle 10 typically includes two perforated panels that are slidable in opposite directions and arranged so that, when the baffle is in a closed position, an opening in one panel is covered by a solid portion of the other panel, and when the baffle is in an open position, an opening in one panel is arranged opposite an opening in the other panel, the opening forming an access window to a main connection terminal. In another known embodiment, each baffle 10 includes perforated panels that are slidable behind fixed perforated panels, arranged so that, when the baffle 10 is in a closed position, an opening in one panel is covered by a solid portion of the other panel, and when the baffle 10 is in an open position, an opening in one panel is arranged opposite an opening in the other panel, the opening forming an access window to a main connection terminal.

[0056] In the prior art, in addition to the second locking member 4b, the system also requires a button for unlocking the additional locking mechanism. Furthermore, using the rack device according to the invention, compared with the prior art system that always allows the button to be actuated regardless of the position of the second locking member 4b, the additional locking mechanism 5 cannot be unlocked when the second locking member 4b is in the first or second position.

[0057] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described and shown in the accompanying drawings. Modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of protection, particularly in terms of the configuration of different elements or by substituting equivalent technologies.

Claims

1. A rack assembly for a withdrawable electrical switchgear, the rack assembly comprising a rack (C) designed to receive a withdrawable electrical switchgear (D) and a plug-in system mounted in the rack (C), the plug-in system comprising: A mechanical transmission mechanism (1) is designed to be functionally connected to the withdrawable electrical switch (D) inserted into the frame (C) and actuated at a plurality of transmission positions, each transmission position corresponding to a functional position of the withdrawable electrical switch (D); a removable operating member (2) for actuating the mechanical transmission mechanism (1) when functionally inserted into an operating opening (3) of the frame (C); a main locking mechanism (4) comprising a first locking member (4a) and a second locking member (4b), the first locking member being movable between a closed position preventing the operating member (2) from being inserted into the operating opening (3) and an open position allowing the operating member (2) to be inserted into the operating opening (3), and the second locking member being manually movable between a first position locking the first locking member (4a) in the closed position and a second position releasing the first locking member; And an additional locking mechanism (5) that can move to each transmission position, wherein on the one hand the additional locking mechanism (5) is in a locked state to prevent kinematic movement of the mechanical transmission mechanism (1) when the first locking member (4a) is in either the first position or the second position, and on the other hand the additional locking mechanism (5) is in an unlocked state to allow the kinematic movement, characterized in that the second locking member (4b) is capable of engaging with the additional locking mechanism (5), and the second locking member (4b) is manually movable to a third position when the first locking member (4a) is in the open position, thereby actuating the additional locking mechanism (5) by the engagement so that the additional locking mechanism enters the unlocked state.

2. The rack assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The additional locking mechanism (5) includes movable locking components (5a, 5b, 5c) and connecting components (5d, 5e). The movable locking components are designed to be driven to a locked state and a released state. In the locked state, the kinematic movement of the mechanical transmission mechanism (1) is prevented by causing the additional locking mechanism (5) to enter the locked state. In the released state, the kinematic movement is achieved by causing the additional locking mechanism (5) to enter the unlocked state. The connecting components (5d, 5e) can cooperate with the second locking member (4b) and are connected to the locking components (5a, 5b, 5c) and the return device (5f). When the second locking member moves to the third position, the connecting components (5d, 5e) are actuated by the second locking member (4b) on the one hand to drive the locking components (5a, 5b, 5c) into the unlocked state, and on the other hand by the return device (5f) to drive the locking components (5a, 5b, 5c) into the locked state.

3. The rack assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connecting components (5d, 5e) cooperate with the second locking member (4b) such that after the connecting components (5d, 5e) are actuated to drive the locking components (5a, 5b, 5c) to the locked state, the second locking member (4b) automatically moves from the third position to the second position via the return device (5f).

4. The rack assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The mechanical transmission mechanism (1) includes: a drive shaft (1a) extending along the axis of the operating opening (3), the drive shaft being designed to connect to the operating member (2) when the operating member is functionally inserted into the operating opening (3); a driven shaft (1b) having a rotation axis perpendicular to the rotation axis of the drive shaft (1a), thereby being functionally connected to a withdrawable electrical switch (D); a transmission device (1c) connecting the drive shaft (1a) to the driven shaft (1b) such that rotation of the drive shaft (1a) when actuated by the operating member (2) causes rotation of the driven shaft (1b), and the locking components (5a, 5b, 5c) being designed to prevent rotation of the driven shaft (1b) and / or the drive shaft (1a) when in the locked state, and to allow rotation of the driven shaft (1b) and / or the drive shaft (1a) when in the released state.

5. The rack assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The connecting assemblies (5d, 5e) include a rotating star-shaped portion (5d) and a transmission element (5e). The rotating star-shaped portion includes a rotating center body (50d) mounted to rotate about a rotation axis. The rotating center body (50d) carries at least two connecting arms (51d, 52d, 53d) extending radially from the rotating center body (50d). Specifically, the first connecting arm (51d) is connected to the locking assembly (5a, 5b, 5c) via the transmission element (5e), ​​and the second connecting arm (52d)... The device is designed to engage with the second locking member (4b) through contact, such that movement of the second locking member (4b) to the third position actuates the rotating center body (50d) to rotate along the first direction (R1), thereby driving the locking components (5a, 5b, 5c) to the release position, and the return device (5f) enables the rotating star part (5d) to rotate along a second rotation direction (R2) opposite to the first direction (R1) so as to automatically drive the locking components (5a, 5b, 5c) into the locking position.

6. The rack assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The axis of rotation around which the rotating center body is located is parallel to the axis of rotation of the driven shaft (1b).

7. The rack assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The return device (5f) includes a tension spring or a compression spring, and the rotating center body (50d) carries a third arm (53d) or a torsion spring, the third arm being connected to the return device (5f) fastened to the frame (C), the torsion spring being connected to the rotating center body (50d) to directly drive the rotating center body, or to drive the rotating center body by gravity.

8. The rack assembly according to any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that, The first locking member (4a) is capable of moving in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the drive shaft (1a) and the rotation axis of the driven shaft (1b), and the second locking member (4b) is capable of moving in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the drive shaft (1a).

9. The rack assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The frame (C) includes a mounting wall (C1) perpendicular to the driven shaft (5b), and the second locking member (4b) is slidably mounted in a sliding groove (C10) formed in the mounting wall (C1) and extending parallel to the drive shaft (1a) to move relative to the frame (C) to the first position, the second position, and the third position.

10. The rack assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, The second locking member (4b) is key-shaped and includes a rod (41b) and a head (40b) with an eyelet (400b), the rod being able to engage with the connecting components (5d, 5e) of the first locking member (4a) and the additional locking mechanism (5).

11. The rack assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that, The rod can mate with the second connecting arm (52d).

12. An assembly comprising a rack assembly and a withdrawable electrical switchgear, the rack assembly including a frame (C) for receiving the withdrawable electrical switchgear (D) and a plug-in system mounted in the frame (C), characterized in that, The rack assembly is the rack assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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