High current switch and method for operating high current switch

Abstract

The invention relates to a high-current switch and a method for operating a high-current switch. The high-current switch comprises a housing, a braking device, a first switching contact, a second switching contact arranged offset from the first switching contact, and a switching device with a bridge element, the bridge element is movable in the housing along the lifting axis between an open position, an intermediate position and a contact position, in the open position and in the intermediate position of the bridge element, the bridge element is spaced apart from the first and second switching contacts, the first and second switching contacts being electrically isolated from each other; the brake device has a holding unit which is operatively connected to the bridge element in an intermediate position by means of an operative connection and provides a braking force which acts on the bridge element; in the contact position, the operative connection between the holding unit and the bridge element is reduced, and during the movement of the bridge element from the open position in the direction of the contact position, at least in the intermediate position, the holding unit acts with a braking force opposite the movement of the bridge element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a high current switch according to claim 1 and to a method for operating the high current switch according to claim 12 . Background Art

[0002] A high-current switch is known from GB 2 347 270 A. Summary of the invention

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide a high-current switch, in particular a contactor, in particular a bridge contactor, for an electrical energy store of an electric vehicle and an improved method for operating the high-current switch.

[0004] This object is achieved by means of a high current switch according to claim 1 and by means of a method according to claim 12. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0005] It has been recognized that an improved high-current switch, in particular a contactor, in particular a bridge contactor, can be provided for an electrical energy storage of a vehicle, the high-current switch having a housing, a braking device, an electrical switching device having a bridge element, a first switching contact and a second switching contact arranged offset from the first switching contact. The bridge element can be moved in the housing along the lifting axis between an open position, an intermediate position and a contact position. In the contact position of the bridge element, the bridge element contacts the first switching contact and the second switching contact and electrically connects them to each other. In the open position and the intermediate position of the bridge element, the bridge element is arranged spaced apart from the first switching contact and the second switching contact, and the first and second switching contacts are electrically isolated from each other. The intermediate position is arranged between the open position and the contact position relative to the lifting axis. The braking device has a holding unit, which is operably connected to the bridge element in the intermediate position by an operative connection and provides a braking force acting on the bridge element. The holding unit is here operably connected to the bridge element directly or indirectly. In the contact position, the operative connection between the holding unit and the bridge is reduced, wherein during a movement of the bridge from the open position in the direction of the contact position, in an intermediate position of the holding unit a braking force acts along the lifting axis counter to the movement of the bridge.

[0006] This design has the advantage that, when accelerations acting, for example, along the lifting axis are introduced into the high-current switch, the brake device prevents the bridge element from being unintentionally moved into the contact position and from contacting the first and second switching contacts in the process. In particular, when the energy store is designed, for example, as a high-voltage system with an operating voltage of, for example, 800 volts, this could lead to an electrical short circuit within the energy store if the high-current switch is designed as a pilot bridge contactor.

[0007] In another embodiment, the holding unit has a permanent magnet, wherein the permanent magnet provides a magnetic field, wherein in the intermediate position the permanent magnet provides an operative connection. This design has the advantage that the holding unit is particularly simple in design and that in the contact position of the bridge element the permanent magnet is only slightly and not indirectly operatively connected to the bridge element.

[0008] In another embodiment, the switching device has a coil device and an armature arranged on the coil device, wherein the armature is mechanically connected to the bridge element. When the coil device is energized, the coil device is configured to move the armature along the lifting axis so that the armature moves the bridge element between the open position and the contact position via an intermediate position.

[0009] In another embodiment, the switching device has a sleeve, which extends along the lifting axis, wherein the armature is at least partially arranged in the sleeve, wherein the sleeve has a stop surface arranged obliquely relative to the lifting axis on the side facing the permanent magnet, wherein the permanent magnet has a second end face and the armature has an armature end surface on the side facing the permanent magnet, wherein in the open position, the permanent magnet abuts against the armature end surface and is arranged spaced apart from the stop surface, wherein in the intermediate position, the permanent magnet abuts against the stop surface and magnetically couples the armature to the sleeve and generates a braking force. This configuration has the advantage that the bridge element can be held particularly stably in the intermediate position.

[0010] In another embodiment, the brake device has a plunger which extends along the lifting axis and is arranged in the housing independently of the bridge element along the lifting axis, wherein in the open position the plunger is arranged spaced apart from the bridge element, wherein during the movement of the bridge element in the intermediate position from the open position in the direction of the contact position the bridge element contacts the plunger in order to form an operative connection. This design has the advantage that the plunger is particularly simple. In addition, a particularly high braking force is ensured by the arrangement of the plunger part in the effective range of the magnetic field, and thus an unintentional movement of the bridge element into the contact position can be prevented even at high accelerations of the brake device.

[0011] In another embodiment, a permanent magnet secures the plunger in the intermediate position and / or in the open position.

[0012] In a further embodiment, the permanent magnet is annular and has a first pole and a second pole. The first pole is arranged on the side facing away from the bridge element and the second pole is arranged on the side facing the bridge element. This construction has the advantage that the permanent magnet is particularly simple and cost-effective and the plunger can be passed through the permanent magnet using a pin. This ensures a compact construction of the braking device.

[0013] In another embodiment, the plunger has a plunger portion extending outwardly in a radial direction and a pin connected to the plunger portion and extending along the lifting axis, wherein the plunger portion is arranged on a side of the pin facing away from the bridge element, wherein in the open position and the intermediate position, the plunger portion is arranged within the effective range of the magnetic field. This configuration has the advantage that the plunger is magnetically coupled to the permanent magnet with little friction.

[0014] In another embodiment, the permanent magnet has a first through opening extending along the lifting axis, wherein the plunger passes through the first through opening and protrudes beyond the permanent magnet on the side facing the bridge element, wherein the plunger has a side surface extending around the lifting axis, wherein a first radial gap is arranged between the side surface and the first inner surface of the first through opening.

[0015] In another embodiment, the braking device has a coupling unit, wherein the coupling unit is connected to the housing and has a second through-opening, wherein the plunger at least partially passes through the second through-opening, wherein, preferably, the plunger and the second through-opening are formed corresponding to the guidance of the plunger along the lifting axis. As a result, the plunger is prevented from tilting. In addition, this construction has the advantage that the magnetic field can be introduced into the plunger in a targeted manner in the open position and the intermediate position by means of the coupling unit. In addition, in the contact position or on the path between the intermediate position and the contact position, a targeted short-circuiting of the magnetic field can be achieved by a coupling unit connected to the plunger portion.

[0016] In a further embodiment, the holding unit has at least one spring device, wherein the plunger is connected to the spring device, wherein the spring device provides a braking force, wherein the spring device is tensioned during a movement of the bridge element from the intermediate position in the direction of the contact position, wherein the spring device is preferably pretensioned in the intermediate position, wherein preferably the spring device has at least one spring configured in the manner of a disc spring or a plurality of springs arranged in a stack, wherein in the contact position the spring device is at least partially relaxed. The spring device is mechanically particularly simple and durable and allows a particularly simply constructed high-current switch to be realized.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the spring device is arranged between the housing and the plunger, wherein the plunger bears against the spring device and the spring device acts on the plunger, wherein the plunger between the intermediate position and the contact position tensions the spring device during the movement of the bridge element from the open position in the direction of the contact position. This construction has the advantage that the actuating forces for moving the bridge element from the open position into the intermediate position are small and the switching device can therefore be constructed particularly simply and compactly.

[0018] The high-current switch can be operated particularly easily, including the bridge element being moved into the open position, wherein the bridge element is moved from the open position in the direction of the contact position by an actuation force along the lifting axis, in particular due to an unintentional acceleration, wherein, at least in the intermediate position, the holding unit is operatively connected to the bridge element and a braking force acts on the bridge element along the lifting axis in opposition to the movement of the bridge element and the actuation force, wherein the bridge element is moved from the intermediate position into the contact position after overcoming the braking force and the operative connection is reduced. This configuration has the advantage that the braking force can be overcome by the bridge element only in the case of actuation and active switching of the switching device, and that the bridge element can only be moved between the open position and the intermediate position when acceleration is introduced into the bridge element.

[0019] It is particularly advantageous if the braking force acting on the bridge element is formed magnetically in the intermediate position, wherein the magnetic effect of the permanent magnet decreases during the movement of the bridge element from the intermediate position into the contact position. This allows the switching device to be energized with a low current in order to move the bridge element into the contact position.

[0020] In one embodiment, in the open position the permanent magnet abuts the armature, wherein in the intermediate position the permanent magnet strikes the stop surface with the second end face and magnetically operatively connects the armature to the sleeve, wherein during the movement of the bridge element from the intermediate position to the contact position the armature is separated from the permanent magnet.

[0021] Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous if the braking force acting on the plunger decreases, preferably progressively, as the distance from the intermediate position to the contact position increases. The disc spring, like the magnetic device, also provides a progressively decreasing force progression from the intermediate position to the contact position, so that after overcoming the braking force, the actuating force acting on the armature braking device by means of the braking device is less than the actual braking force. This has the advantage that the excess of force in the fully closed state of the high-current switch is not excessively reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The present invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0023] Figure 1 shows a longitudinal section of a high current switch according to a first embodiment;

[0024] Figure 2 shows the high current switch across the Figure 1 A perspective illustration of a longitudinal section shown in FIG.

[0025] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 and Figure 2 The brake device of the high current switch shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 An enlarged view of the open position is shown, Figure 1 The letter H is used to indicate Figure 1 The bridge element of the high current switch shown;

[0026] Figure 4 Shows that Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a brake device for an intermediate position of a bridge element of a high current switch;

[0027] Figure 5 Shows that Figure 1 A brake device for a high current switch showing the contact position of a bridge element of the high current switch;

[0028] Figure 6 Shows the operation Figures 1 to 5 A flow chart of a method for high current switching is shown;

[0029] Figure 7 showing a graph of force plotted over the distance traveled by the bridge element between an open position and a contact position;

[0030] Figure 8 Shows Figures 1 to 5 A perspective cross-sectional view of a high current switch is shown with the bridge element in an intermediate position;

[0031] Fig. 9 Shown through Figures 1 to 5 A perspective cross-sectional view of the high current switch is shown with the bridge element in a contact position;

[0032] Fig.10 shows a portion of a braking device of a high current switch according to a second embodiment;

[0033] Fig.11 The second embodiment of the present invention is shown. Fig.10 The high current switch is shown in the contact position of the bridge element.

[0034] Fig.12 The high current switch according to the third embodiment is shown. Figure 1 Section C marked in the figure;

[0035] Fig.13 Shows Fig.12 The high current switch shown in Fig.12 The section E marked in FIG. 1 is in the open position of the bridge element of the high current switch;

[0036] Fig.14 Shows Fig.12 A cross section E of the high current switch shown in the contact position of the bridge element;

[0037] Fig.15a second schematic diagram showing a change in magnetic force plotted against a distance from a second end surface to an end surface of an armature;

[0038] Fig.16 The high current switch according to the fourth embodiment is shown in FIG. Figure 1 Section E marked in the figure;

[0039] Fig.17 Shows Figure 1 A cross section E of a high current switch shown in the middle of a bridge element;

[0040] Fig.18 shows a graph of spring force over compression distance;

[0041] Fig.19 Shows Fig.16 and 17 The cross section E shown, when the bridge element is between the contact position and the intermediate position;

[0042] Fig. 20 a third graph showing the actuation force for moving the bridge element from the open position via the intermediate position to the contact position over the travel distance of the armature;

[0043] Fig.21 The high current switch according to the fifth embodiment is shown in FIG. Figure 1 Section E marked in; and

[0044] Fig. 22 Shows Fig.21 A perspective view of a spring of a spring arrangement of a high current switch is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Figure 1 A longitudinal section of a high current switch 10 according to a first embodiment is shown.

[0046] The high current switch 10 can be configured, for example, as a contactor, in particular a bridge contactor, for an electrical energy storage device for an electrically driven vehicle, in particular a fully electric vehicle. In this case, the high current switch 10 can be used in particular in a high voltage system, for example an 800 volt system, to connect two battery packs in series or in parallel, each battery pack having a pack output voltage of, for example, 400 volts. The high current switch 10 can be connected in its function as a bridge contactor in such a way that the high current switch 10 is closed when charging at a 400 volt charging station, while in normal operation of the electric vehicle, the high current switch 10 is open, so that the battery packs are connected in series and the output voltage of the electrical energy storage device in normal operation is the sum of the pack output voltages.

[0047] It must be ensured that the high current switch 10 does not inadvertently close during its function as a bridge contactor, for example due to rapid acceleration. This would lead to a short circuit inside the electrical energy store, which has corresponding consequences, especially when using lithium-ion batteries, with a high risk of fire. Therefore, inadvertent closing of the high current switch 10 must be avoided.

[0048] Of course, the high current switch 10 can also be used in different locations or with different functions. For example, it is also conceivable to use the high current switch 10 as a central contactor and connect the two battery packs in series during normal operation of the vehicle.

[0049] In an embodiment, the high current switch 10 is configured to transmit at least 100 amps to 1000 amps. In particular, the high current switch 10 can transmit 150 amps to 300 amps.

[0050] According to the first embodiment, Figure 1 The high-current switch 10 shown by way of example in FIG. 1 comprises, for example, a housing 15 , a braking device 20 , an electrical switching device 25 having a switching bridge, a connecting terminal 30 , a first switching contact 40 and a second switching contact 45 .

[0051] The connection terminal 30 has a first terminal connection portion 50 and a second terminal connection portion 55, and the connection terminal 30 enables the high current switch 10 to be integrated into the high voltage system of the electric vehicle. The first terminal connection portion 50 is, for example, arranged on the first switching contact 40 and electrically connected to the first switching contact 40. The second terminal connection portion 55 is electrically and mechanically connected to the second switching contact 45.

[0052] The housing 15 surrounds a housing interior 65, wherein the switching device 25, the braking device 20 and the first and second switching contacts 40, 45 and the bridge element 35 are arranged in the housing interior 65. The housing 15 is made of a non-conductive material and electrically insulates the switching contacts 40, 45 and the first terminal connection 50 from the second terminal connection 55. The connecting terminal 30 is arranged, for example, on the outside of the housing 15 and serves for the electrical connection of the high-current switch 10 to other components of the high-voltage system.

[0053] The bridge element 35 is in the open position (in Figure 1 ) via an intermediate position and a contact position different from the open position (in Figure 1 The intermediate position is arranged between the open position and the contact position in the axial direction relative to the lifting axis 60. The bridge element 35 extends radially outward relative to the lifting axis 60, for example. The first switching contact 40 and the second switching contact 45 are spaced apart from each other in the radial direction relative to the lifting axis 60 and are arranged offset from each other.

[0054] The housing 15 and thus the high current switch 10 are aligned in the electric vehicle via fastening tabs 71 of the housing 15 defined in the vehicle. In particular, the lifting axis 60 can be aligned in the direction of gravity. Of course, the lifting axis 60 can also be aligned differently in space.

[0055] With the proposed alignment, the connecting terminals 30 are arranged, by way of example, on the top side of the housing 15 and the switching device 25 is arranged on the bottom side in the housing 15 .

[0056] The housing 15 has a first housing 70 on the inner side. The first housing 70 is arranged, for example, centered on the lifting axis 60 and can have, for example, a circular cross section. The first housing 70 has a housing opening 75 and a first housing base 80. The first housing base 80 is arranged on the side facing away from the switching device 25 and the bridge element 35 in the axial direction relative to the lifting axis 60. The receiving opening 75 axially faces the bridge element 35. The first housing 70 is open at the housing opening 75. The brake device 20 is at least partially arranged in the first housing 70.

[0057] In the open position, the bridge element 35 is spaced apart, preferably at a maximum axial distance, from the corresponding contact surfaces of the first and second switching contacts 40, 45, which contact surfaces face the bridge element 35. The switching device 25 is, for example, mechanically connected to the bridge element 35 and is configured to move the bridge element 35 in the axial direction along the lifting axis 60 between the open position and the contact position. It must be ensured that the contact position is only reached when the switching device 25 is actively actuated, for example energized. In particular, unintentional contact of the bridge element 35 at the first switching contact 40 and the second switching contact 45 with the switching device 25 deactivated must be avoided. Even at high accelerations of, for example, 90 g acting on the bridge element 35 along the lifting axis 60, contact of the first and second switching contacts 40, 45 via the bridge element 35 should be prevented.

[0058] So that the bridge element 35 is held in the open position without applying current to the switching device 25, the switching device 25 can have a reset unit 85, for example a reset spring, which is in a released state in the open position of the bridge element 35. The reset unit 85 is, for example, configured to return the bridge element 35 to the open position and / or to hold it in the open position. In particular, when the switching device 25 is deactivated, the reset unit 85 moves the bridge element 35 into the open position.

[0059] In the contact position (at Figure 1In the embodiment of the present invention, the bridge element 35 contacts both the first switching contact 40 and the second switching contact 45 on the side facing the bridge element 35 and electrically connects the first switching contact 40 to the second switching contact 45. To this end, the bridge element 35 can be manufactured from a metal material, for example in an annular or plate-like form. For improved electrical contact and for reducing contact resistance, a conductive coating, for example a conductive coating comprising silver, can be provided on the contact surface of the bridge element 35 and / or the respectively associated switching contacts 40, 45.

[0060] In addition to the reset unit 85 , the switching device 25 further comprises a coil arrangement 250 and an armature 255 which is surrounded by the coil arrangement 250 and is connected, for example, mechanically to the reset unit 85 and via a connecting means 260 to the bridge element 35 .

[0061] In particular, the connecting means may have a connecting bolt 630 and an overlift spring 635, wherein the connecting bolt 630 is connected on one side to the armature 255. The connecting bolt is connected to the bridge element 35 via the overlift spring 635. The overlift spring 635 mechanically connects the bridge element 35 to the connecting bolt 630 so that the bridge element 35 moves between the open position and the contact position.

[0062] The coil device 250 has one or more electrical coils configured to generate a further electromagnetic field acting on the armature 255 so as to move the bridge element 35 between the open position and the contact position by an axial displacement of the armature 255. The configuration of the switching device 25 is selected, for example, so that the contact position is maintained only when the coil device 250 is energized, and if the coil device 250 is only slightly energized, if at all, the electromagnetic field is too weak to maintain the bridge element 35 in the contact position. In this case, the reset unit 85 automatically returns the bridge element 35 and, therefore, the armature 255 coupled to the bridge element 35, to the open position, so that in the event of insufficient energization of the coil device 250, if any, the high current switch 10 is disconnected.

[0063] Figure 2 shows the current through the high current switch 10 Figure 1 A perspective illustration of a longitudinal section is shown in FIG.

[0064] In order to transmit high currents of preferably 100 to 1000 amperes between the first switching contact 40 and the second switching contact 45, the bridge element 35 can have a plate-like basic shape. Here, the bridge element 35 has a second receptacle 95 on a first end face 90 facing the braking device 20. The second receptacle 95 is arranged, for example, as a recess in the bridge element 35. The second receptacle 95 can be arranged spaced apart from the first outer circumferential side 100 of the bridge element 35. Axially, the second receptacle 95 is aligned with the first receptacle 70 and the braking device 20.

[0065] Figure 3 Shown in Figure 1 The brake device 20 is marked with the letter H in Figure 1 and Figure 2 An enlarged illustration of the bridge element 20 in the open position is shown in FIG.

[0066] exist Figure 3 In the figure, for the sake of clarity, the illustration of other components is omitted, in particular the housing 15 and the connecting terminal 30. The bridge element 35 is also only Figure 3 It is schematically shown in FIG.

[0067] The brake device 20 has a holding unit 600, which has a permanent magnet 105 and a plunger 110. In addition, the brake device 20 may also have a coupling unit 115. In an embodiment, the coupling unit 115 is arranged in the first receptacle 70 of the housing 15 and is mechanically connected to the housing 15. In an embodiment, the permanent magnet 105 is mechanically connected to the coupling unit 115 and is therefore indirectly connected to the housing 15 via the coupling unit 115. The plunger 110 is arranged axially movably along the lifting axis 60 relative to the coupling unit 115 and relative to the permanent magnet 105 and also relative to the bridge element 35 and is therefore independent of the bridge element 35.

[0068] By way of example, the plunger 110 has a cylindrical pin 120 and a plunger portion 125. The pin 120 has a first stop surface 130 on a first end facing the bridge element 35. The first stop surface 130 can be formed at an obtuse angle on the pin 120 and, for example, extend obliquely, in particular vertically, relative to the lifting axis 60. The pin 120 also has a side surface 135. In addition, the pin 120 can be made, for example, of a paramagnetic material or a diamagnetic material.

[0069] On a second end of the pin 120 facing away from the first stop surface 130 and thus away from the bridge member 35, a plunger portion 125 is arranged on the pin 120 and mechanically connected to the pin 120. The plunger portion 125 can be annular, for example. The plunger portion 125 protrudes beyond the pin 120 in a radial direction relative to the pin 120. The plunger portion 125 preferably comprises a ferromagnetic material.

[0070] The permanent magnet 105 provides a magnetic field 140. Figure 3, the magnetic field 140 is schematically indicated by means of field lines. The permanent magnet 105 has, for example, a first pole 145, for example a north pole N, and a second pole 150, for example a south pole S. The first pole 145 of the permanent magnet 105 is, for example, arranged on the axial side of the permanent magnet 105 facing away from the bridge element 35 and the second pole 150 is arranged on the axial side facing the bridge element 35. The permanent magnet 105 has, for example, an annular configuration and extends, for example, on a circular path, in the circumferential direction around the lifting axis 60. Radially on the outside of the permanent magnet 105 and in the embodiment, for example on both sides in the axial direction, the coupling unit 115 adjoins the permanent magnet 105 and mechanically connects the permanent magnet 105 to the housing 15.

[0071] The permanent magnet 105 has a first inner surface 175, which forms a first through-opening 176 in the permanent magnet 105. The pin 120 passes through the first through-opening 176 in the axial direction and is arranged on the lifting axis 60. A first radial gap 180 is arranged between the side surface 135 of the pin 120 and the first inner surface 175. In this case, the pin 120 protrudes beyond the permanent magnet 105 and the coupling unit 115 on the side facing the bridge element 35.

[0072] In the embodiment, the coupling unit 115 has, for example, a first coupling element 155 and a second coupling element 160. Of course, one of the two coupling elements 155, 160 or even the entire coupling unit 115 may also be omitted.

[0073] The first coupling element 155 is annular. The first coupling element 155 can be made of a ferromagnetic material, for example. The first coupling element 155 is exemplarily arranged on the axial side of the permanent magnet 105 that faces away from the bridge element 35. Here, the first coupling element 155 can directly abut against the second end face 165 of the permanent magnet 105 and can be mechanically fastened to the permanent magnet 105.

[0074] The first coupling element 155 has a first contact surface 170 on an axial side facing away from the bridge element 35. The first contact surface 170 is substantially flat and extends, by way of example, in a plane perpendicular to the lifting axis 60. The first coupling element 155 can be radially chamfered on the inside of the first contact surface 170 and / or on the outside of the first contact surface 170.

[0075] In this embodiment, the second coupling element 160 is, for example, pot-shaped. Of course, the second coupling element 160 can also have different geometric configurations. The second coupling element 160 has a first coupling element portion 185 and a second coupling element portion 190. The first coupling element portion 185 is substantially plate-shaped or annular and extends in a plane perpendicular to the lifting axis 60. The second coupling element portion 190 is hollow cylindrical and extends around the lifting axis 60.

[0076] For example, the first coupling element 155 and the permanent magnet 105 are arranged radially inside the second coupling element part 190. Preferably, the permanent magnet 105 and / or the first coupling element 155 are arranged radially spaced apart from the second coupling element part 190. The second coupling element part 190 is connected to the first coupling element part 185 on the axial side facing the bridge element 35. Preferably, the first coupling element part 185 and the second coupling element part 190 are made integrally from the same material, preferably from a ferromagnetic material.

[0077] The first coupling element part 185, which is exemplarily annular, is connected in the axial direction to the axial side of the permanent magnet 105 facing the bridge element 35. Therefore, the permanent magnet 105 is arranged between the first coupling element 155 and the second coupling element 160, in particular the first coupling element part 185, on both sides in the axial direction.

[0078] The first coupling element part 185 has a second through-opening 195 on the radial inner side. The second through-opening 195 is arranged spaced apart from the side surface 135 of the pin 120 in the radial direction, so that a second radial gap 205 is formed between a second inner surface 200 of the second through-opening 195 and the side surface 135, wherein the second radial gap 205 is preferably more elongated in the radial direction than the first radial gap 180. Of course, the first coupling element part 185 can also have a width in the radial direction similar to that of the permanent magnet 105, so that the second inner surface 200 ends flush with the first inner surface 175 in the radial direction.

[0079] The second coupling element part 190 has a third inner surface 210 . A third radial gap 220 is arranged between the second outer circumferential side 215 of the first coupling element 155 and the third inner surface 210 .

[0080] The plunger portion 125 has a second contact surface 225 on the side facing the bridge element 35. The first contact surface 170 and the second contact surface 225 can preferably be arranged in a plane perpendicular to the lifting axis 60. In the open position of the bridge element 35, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown, the first contact surface 170 abuts the second contact surface 225 .

[0081] On the radially outer side of the contact between the first contact surface 170 and the second contact surface 225, the second coupling element part 190 also has a third contact surface 230. The first contact surface 170 and the third contact surface 230 are preferably arranged in a common plane, preferably perpendicular to the lifting axis 60. In the open position, as Figure 3 As shown, the plunger portion 125 abuts the first contact surface 170 and the third contact surface 230 with the second contact surface 225 .

[0082] As already explained above, the permanent magnet 105 provides the magnetic field 140. Figure 3 , the magnetic field 140 is schematically indicated by way of example with the aid of magnetic field lines. In the open position of the bridge element 35, the magnetic flux of the magnetic field 140 is closed. The magnetic flux of the permanent magnet 105 into the plunger part 125 occurs, for example, on the end face on the side facing away from the bridge element 35 from the first pole 145 via the first coupling element 155 and the contact between the first contact surface 170 and the second contact surface 225. Thus, the plunger part 125 is magnetically operatively connected to the permanent magnet 105, and the permanent magnet 105 holds the plunger part against the first coupling element 155 via the magnetic field 140.

[0083] The magnetic flux is closed radially on the outside of the plunger part 125 via the contact of the second contact surface 225 with the third contact surface 230. The magnetic field 140 enters the second coupling element 160 from the plunger part via the second contact surface 225 and the third contact surface 230. The second coupling element 160 guides the magnetic field 140 toward the first coupling element part 185 by means of the second coupling element part 190. At the first coupling element part 185, the magnetic field 140 from the first coupling element part 185 enters the second pole 150 of the permanent magnet 105 again on the axial side facing away from the bridge element 35.

[0084] The first radial gap 180 and the second radial gap 205 between the permanent magnet 105 and the first coupling element part 185 have the effect that the magnetic field 140 does not act substantially on the pin 120, but the coupling of the plunger 110 substantially takes place via the plunger part 125. Furthermore, a magnetic short circuit between the permanent magnet 105 and the second coupling element part 190 is prevented by the third radial gap 220 and by the arrangement of the permanent magnet 105 radially spaced apart from the third inner surface 210.

[0085] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the brake device 20 is shown in a central position of the bridge element 35 .

[0086] In the neutral position of the bridge element 35, the brake device 20 has the same arrangement of components relative to each other as in the open position of the bridge element 35. Therefore, only the differences between the high current switch 10 when the bridge element 35 is in the neutral position and in the open position will be discussed.

[0087] In the intermediate position, the pin 120 abuts with the first stop surface 130 against the second receiving base 236 of the second housing 95. The intermediate position of the bridge element 35 is preferably arranged between the contact position and the open position in the axial direction relative to the lifting axis 60 (see Figure 3). In the intermediate position, the bridge element 35 is in contact with the first stop surface 130, but does not contact the first and second switching contacts 40, 45, and therefore the high current switch 10 is also open in the intermediate position. In addition, the plunger 110 is magnetically connected to the housing 15 by the permanent magnet 105 via the coupling unit 115 and the permanent magnet 105. In the intermediate position, the permanent magnet 105 prevents axial displaceability of the pin 120 relative to the housing 15.

[0088] Figure 5 The braking device 20 of the high current switch 10 is shown in the contact position of the bridge element 35 .

[0089] In the open position of the bridge element 35, the bridge element 35 abuts against the first stop surface 130 with the second receiving base 236. Furthermore, on the radially outer side of the second receiving portion 95, the bridge element 35 contacts both the first switching contact 40 and the second switching contact 45 and connects the first switching contact 40 with the second switching contact 45 ( Figure 5 ). Therefore, the high current switch 10 is closed in the contact position of the bridge element 35 and a high current can flow via the bridge element 35 via the first terminal connection 50 and the first switching contact 40 to the second switching contact 45 and from the second switching contact 45 to the second terminal connection 55.

[0090] In the contact position, the plunger 110 is pushed axially deeper into the first accommodation portion 70 than in the open position or the intermediate position of the bridge element 35. In this case, in the contact position, the plunger portion 125 is arranged on the side facing away from the bridge element 35 to be axially spaced apart from the first coupling element 155 and, for example, the second coupling element 160, in particular, the first contact surface 170 and the third contact surface 230. In the open position, a first axial gap 240 is formed between the first contact surface 170 and the second contact surface 225, the first axial gap 240 having an axial first gap width b1. In addition, a second axial gap 245 is formed between the first contact surface 170 and the third contact surface 230, the second axial gap having, for example, the same axial first gap width b1 as the first axial gap 240. The first axial gap 240 and the second axial gap 245 are wider in the axial direction than the second gap width b2 of the third radial gap 220 in the radial direction.

[0091] This configuration has the advantage that the magnetic field 140 is short-circuited by the first coupling element 155 in the contact position and the plunger part 125 is arranged outside the effective range of the magnetic field 140. The magnetic field 140 leaves the permanent magnet 105, for example, at the first pole 145 and is guided to the third radial gap 220 by the first coupling element 155. The magnetic field 140 leaves the first coupling element 155 radially outside the second outer circumferential side 215 and passes through the third radial gap 220 between the first coupling element 155 and the second coupling element part 190. On the third inner surface 210, the magnetic field 140 enters the second coupling element part 190 and is guided by the second coupling element part 190 in the direction of the bridge element 35. The magnetic field 140 enters the first coupling element part 185 from the second coupling element part 190 and is guided from the first coupling element part 185 toward the second pole 150 of the permanent magnet 105 so that the magnetic field 140 is closed.

[0092] Therefore, the magnetic field 140 is guided substantially only in the coupling unit 115 and the permanent magnet 105 in the contact position, and the plunger part 125 and / or the pin 120 are arranged outside the effective range of the magnetic field 140. Therefore, in the contact position, the plunger 110 is substantially decoupled from the permanent magnet 105, and the magnetic field 140 is short-circuited via the coupling unit 115.

[0093] Figure 6 Shows the operation Figures 1 to 5 A flow chart of a method of high current switching 10 is shown. Figure 7 A diagram of the actuation force FA for movement of the bridge element 35 between the open position OP and the contact position KP is shown plotted over the travel distance D of the armature 255 for transferring the bridge element 35 from the open position OP to the contact position. Figure 8 Shows Figures 1 to 5 A perspective cutaway view of the high current switch 10 is shown with the bridge element 35 in a neutral position. Fig. 9 Shown through Figures 1 to 5 A perspective cutaway view of the high current switch 10 is shown with the bridge element 35 in the contact position.

[0094] Figure 7 The diagram shown in shows a first graph 500. The first graph 500 shows the progression of the actuation force FA over the travel distance D between the open position OP and the contact position KP.

[0095] The open position OP is located at the right end of the abscissa. During the movement of the bridge element 35 from the open position OP into the contact position, an actuation force FA is provided by a corresponding energization of the coil device 250 of the switching device 25. The actuation force FA shown is applied to the armature 255. Here, the armature 255 has a maximum travel distance D, which decreases as the bridge element 35 is closer to the contact position.

[0096] The first graph 500 has a first graph portion 501 , a second graph portion 502 , a third graph portion 503 and at least one fourth graph portion 504 .

[0097] In a first method step 305, the high current switch 10 is set to the open position of the bridge element 35. For this purpose, the energization of the coil arrangement 250 is interrupted, and thus the reset unit 85 can move the bridge element 35 to the open position and the armature 255 to the starting position. In the open position, the high current switch 10 is disconnected and the power transmission between the terminal connections 50, 55 is interrupted.

[0098] In a second method step 310, the coil arrangement 250 is energized. The coil arrangement 250 generates an electromagnetic field, which acts on the armature 255 with an actuating force FA. The armature 255 is moved in the axial direction along the lifting axis 60 by the actuating force FA and, in the process, actuates the reset unit 85. The reset unit 85 is tensioned by the armature 255 and provides the reset force FR (see Figure 1 ). The restoring force FR acts oppositely to the actuating force FA. By means of the actuating force FA, the bridge element 35 is moved along the lifting axis 60 from the open position in the direction of the contact position oppositely to the action of the restoring force FR. As the travel distance D decreases in the first graph portion 502, the restoring unit 85 is tensioned by the actuating force FA.

[0099] However, the actuation force FA can also act on the armature 255 by means of an acceleration. The acceleration can have such a magnitude that the actuation force FA caused by the acceleration in the armature is greater than the restoring force FR.

[0100] In a third method step 315, the pin 120 protruding into the housing interior 65 via the receiving opening 75 comes into contact with the second receiving base 236 of the second receptacle 95 at the first stop surface 130. The bridge element 35 is in the middle position ZP (see Figure 4 ).

[0101] By means of the magnetic coupling of the plunger 110 with the permanent magnet 105, preferably via the coupling unit 115, the brake device 20 provides a braking force FB which acts along the lifting axis 60 in the opposite direction to the actuating force FA (see Figure 4). On the one hand, the braking force FB prevents the bridge element 35 from moving further in the direction of the contact position. The braking force FB together with the restoring force FR thus increases the necessary actuation force FA for moving the bridge element 35 from the intermediate position ZP in the direction of the contact position. Since both the braking force FB and the restoring force FR act in opposition to the actuation force FA, the gradient of the first graph 500 in the second graph section 502 is significantly steeper than the gradient in the first graph section 501 (see Figure 7 ).

[0102] If the actuation force FA is greater than the sum of the restoring force FR and the braking force FB, the switching device 25 shifts the bridge element 35 further in the direction of the contact position KP (see Figure 5 ). In this case, the bridge element 35 carries the plunger 110 together with it. As a result, the plunger portion 125 moves away from the first contact surface 170 and the third contact surface 230 in the axial direction. In this case, a first axial gap 240 and a second axial gap 245 are formed between the plunger portion 125 and the coupling unit 115 between the first to third contact surfaces 170, 225, 230, and the braking force FB is greatly reduced as the formation of the first axial gap 240 and the second axial gap 245 increases in the third graph portion 503, and thus the switching device 25 is no longer prevented by the braking force FB from moving the bridge element 35 out of the intermediate position in the direction toward the contact position.

[0103] Due to the fact that the braking force FB in the intermediate position ZP is preferably significantly greater than the restoring force FR, it is ensured that when the actuating force FA is generated by acceleration, the actuating force FA is less than the sum of the restoring force FR and the braking force FB. In the event of a sharp acceleration, this prevents the bridge element 35 from moving further beyond the intermediate position in the direction of the contact position and thus preventing the closing of the contacts by the bridge element 35 in the intermediate position striking against the pin.

[0104] In a fourth method step 320, the bridge element 35 contacts the first and second switching contacts 40, 45 and electrically connects the first switching contact 40 to the second switching contact 45, so that the high current switch 10 is electrically closed. In the contact position, the reset force FR of the reset unit 85 acts substantially opposite to the actuation force FA, and the braking force FB is substantially offset by the magnetic decoupling of the plunger 110 from the permanent magnet 105.

[0105] In order to ensure a firm contact between the bridge element 35 and the switching contacts 40, 45, the bridge element 35 is subjected to excessive pressure by the switching device 25. In this case, the armature 250 is moved further in the direction of the switching contacts 40, 45 and their end position, wherein the overlift spring 635 is tensioned in the fourth graph section 504. The rigid construction of the overlift spring 635 and the addition of a braking force to the overlift spring force of the overlift spring 635 acting opposite to the actuating force mean that the progression of the fourth graph section 504 is steeper than in the first graph curve.

[0106] In a fifth method step 325, the energization of the coil device 250 is canceled in order to open the high-current switch 10. In this case, the switching device 25 does not provide substantially any actuation force FA. Here, the armature 255 is first moved out of its end position by means of the overtravel spring 635 and the reset unit 85 in the direction of the starting position and only by means of the reset unit 85 in the direction of the starting position out of the contact position KP.

[0107] In addition, the reset unit 8 basically shifts the bridge element 35 from the contact position in the direction toward the intermediate position by the reset force FR5. In this case, shortly before reaching the intermediate position ZP, when the first axial gap 240 and the second axial gap 245 are narrower than the third radial gap 220, the magnetic short circuit in the brake device 20 is canceled, and the brake device 20 assists the movement of the bridge element 35 shortly before reaching the intermediate position. When reaching the intermediate position, the assistance is removed by the travel achieved by the plunger 110, and from the intermediate position in the direction toward the open position, the reset unit 85 shifts the bridge element 35 into the open position by means of the reset force FR.

[0108] It is advantageous here that the force of the brake element to be added during the over-travel reduction additionally accelerates the armature, thereby achieving a faster separation of the contact pieces.

[0109] As already explained above, in the case of the high current switch 10, reaching the contact position due to unintentional acceleration should be prevented. This is achieved in the embodiment by the reset unit 85 and additionally by the brake device 20 together. In this case, small accelerations (e.g. less than 20 g) are ensured only by the reset force FR of the reset unit 85, which is preferably already prestressed into the open position. In order to prevent reaching the contact position in the case of high accelerations, for example accelerations preferably between 50 g and up to 90 g along the lifting axis 60 of the bridge element 35, the bridge element 35 accelerated out of the open position hits the first stop surface 130 of the pin 120 on the way to the contact position along the lifting axis 60. The brake device 20 provides a braking force FB independently of the switching device 25 and, in the intermediate position, greatly increases the necessary actuation force FA. The braking force FB decelerates the already accelerated bridge element 35 and prevents the bridge element 35 from moving further out of the intermediate position ZP in the direction of the contact position KP. The braking device 20 is dimensioned here such that even in the event of rapid acceleration, the actuating force induced in the armature 255 is less than the minimally required actuating force FA.

[0110] The brake device 20 has the following advantages: easy mobility of the bridge element 35 between the contact position and the intermediate position or out of the intermediate position into the contact position is ensured by the magnetic short circuit or the rapid release of the separation of the plunger part 125 from the magnetic field 140. This ensures that the first and second switching contacts 40, 45 are reliably contacted with a high contact force for electrical connection and for closing the high current switch 10.

[0111] The greatly reduced magnetic braking force FB over the travel distance D ensures that the switching device 25 is not overloaded by providing the actuating force FA after the intermediate position ZP is exceeded and as the distance from the bridge element 35 increases. In addition, an increase in the spring stiffness for determining the restoring force FR can be omitted, so that the restoring unit 85 can be designed in a particularly simple and compact manner mechanically.

[0112] Furthermore, the decoupling of the plunger part 125 from the magnetic field 140 has the effect that in the contact position a secure pressing of the bridge element 35 against the switching contacts 40 , 45 is ensured by means of the actuation force FA.

[0113] For example, the braking force FB may be 10 N to 35 N before reaching the contact position, for example 0.5 to 1.5 mm, in particular 1 mm.

[0114] The above-described configuration of the high-current switch 10 also has the advantage that the high-current switch 10 is particularly shock-resistant, in particular for accelerations along the lifting axis 60. Therefore, the high-current switch 10 is particularly suitable as a central switch or bridge contactor for an electrical energy storage device of an electric vehicle. In addition, the braking device 20 can be integrated particularly simply and cost-effectively in an already existing design of the high-current switch 10. In particular, the braking device 20 prevents the bridge element 35, which is moved in the direction of the contact position due to the acceleration, from moving further in the direction of the contact position out of the intermediate position by means of the braking force FB.

[0115] Fig.10 A cross section of a braking device 20 of a high current switch 10 according to a second embodiment is shown.

[0116] exist Fig.10 The brake device 20 of the medium and high current switch 10 is Figures 1 to 5 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The brake device 20 shown in FIG. is substantially the same. Fig.10 The braking device 20 of the high current switch 10 according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. Figures 1 to 5 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The difference between the braking device 20 of the high current switch 10 according to the first embodiment is shown in FIG.

[0117] The coupling unit 115 is adapted such that the coupling unit 115 has, for example, only a first coupling element 155. Furthermore, the first coupling element 155 is arranged on a side of the permanent magnet 105 facing the bridge element 35 and is, for example, mechanically connected to the permanent magnet 105 and to the housing 15. The configuration of the first coupling element 155 may be annular.

[0118] In an embodiment, the plunger portion 125 is stepped. In this case, the plunger portion 125 is adapted to the following effect: the second contact surface 225 has a first partial area 400 and a second partial area 405, wherein the first partial area 400 is axially offset relative to the second partial area 405. In the open position and the intermediate position of the bridge element 35, the second contact surface 225 abuts against the permanent magnet 105 with the first partial area 400 on the axial side facing away from the bridge element 35. The second partial area 405, which is arranged radially inside the first partial area 400, abuts against the first coupling element 155, so that in the open position, the magnetic flux of the magnetic field 140 is closed by the first coupling element 155 and the plunger portion 125 and the permanent magnet 105.

[0119] Fig.11 The diagram shows the contact position of the bridge element 35 according to the second embodiment. Fig.10 A high current switch 10 is shown.

[0120] In the contact position, the plunger portion 125 is axially spaced apart from the permanent magnet 105 and the first coupling element 155. In this configuration, the plunger portion 125 is not removed from the effective range of the magnetic field 140, but is arranged only so far from the magnetic field 140 of the permanent magnet 105 that the braking force FB generated by the magnetic field 140 is equal to the braking force FB generated by the magnetic field 140. Fig.10 The open position shown is greatly attenuated compared to the intermediate position.

[0121] Fig.10 and Fig.11 The second exemplary embodiment of the high-current switch 10 shown in FIG. 1 , in particular the braking device 20 , has the advantage that the braking device 20 is of particularly simple and cost-effective design.

[0122] Fig.12 The high current switch 10 according to the third embodiment is shown in FIG. Figure 1 Section C is marked in the figure.

[0123] The high current switch 10 is similar to the high current switch 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 The high current switch 10 shown in FIG. 1 is substantially the same as that in FIG. 1 . Fig.12 The high current switch 10 shown in FIG. 1 is different from the first embodiment. Figure 1 The differences in the high current switch 10 explained in FIG.

[0124] and Figure 1 In contrast, the brake device 20 is relatively close to the switching device 25 with respect to the lifting axis 60. Figure 1 The arrangement of the brake device 20 shown in the first receptacle 70 is arranged axially in contrast. In the exemplary embodiment, the switching device 25 has a sleeve 610 next to the coil arrangement 250 and the armature 255. The sleeve 610 is connected, for example, to the coil arrangement 250. The sleeve 610 extends along the lifting axis 60 and circumferentially surrounds the armature 255. For example, the sleeve 610 is arranged radially outward relative to the armature 255.

[0125] The armature 255 has an armature end face 605 ( Fig.1260). The armature end face 605 is arranged obliquely relative to the lifting axis 60, preferably vertically. Radially inside the armature end face 605, the armature 255 has a third receptacle 615, wherein a return spring 620 is at least partially arranged in the third receptacle 615. The return spring 620 is supported on the housing 15 on the axial side and is relatively supported on a third receiving base 625 of the third receptacle 615. The third receiver 615 extends from the bridge element 35 toward the third receiving base 625. The return spring 620 is supported on the third receiving base 625. In addition, a connecting bolt 630 is guided in the third receptacle 615 along the lifting axis 60, and the connecting bolt 630 is directly or indirectly connected to the bridge element 35 on the side facing away from the armature 255.

[0126] The sleeve 610 has, for example, a first sleeve portion 640 and a second sleeve portion 645 axially adjoining the first sleeve portion 640 on the axial side facing the bridge element 35. The sleeve 610 has a first radial extent on the inner side in the first sleeve portion 640 and a second radial extent on the inner side in the second sleeve portion 645, wherein the second radial extent in the second sleeve portion 645 is selected to be smaller than the second radial extent in the first sleeve portion 640. Furthermore, in the axial direction, the first sleeve portion 640 adjoins a sleeve end face 650 which is arranged on the side facing away from the bridge element 35.

[0127] Due to the different inner radial extents of the sleeve 610 in the first sleeve part 640 and the second sleeve part 645, the sleeve 610 has a step on which the sleeve 610 has a second stop surface 655. The second stop surface 655 can be oriented, for example, obliquely, preferably perpendicularly to the lifting axis 60. The second stop surface 655 is arranged axially offset relative to the sleeve end face 650 and is offset in the direction of the bridge element 35.

[0128] In the embodiment, the permanent magnet 105 of the brake device 20 is annular and is arranged on a side facing away from the bridge element 35 relative to the switching device 25 .

[0129] exist Fig.12 , the bridge element 35 is arranged in the open position by way of example. Similarly, in the axial direction, the armature 255 is therefore also arranged as far apart as possible from the switching contacts 40, 45. In the open position, the permanent magnet 105 of the holding unit 600 can at least partially protrude beyond the sleeve end face 650 and be arranged only partially in the first sleeve part 640. In this case, the permanent magnet 105 protrudes with the second end face 165 (which is in the Fig.12The armature 255 is placed against the armature end surface 605 and is magnetically connected to the armature 255 by means of a magnetic force FM by means of a magnetic field 140 provided by the permanent magnet 105. The magnetic force FM acts, for example, opposite to the actuation force FA. In the open position, the magnetic force FM fixes the permanent magnet 105 on the armature 255 so that they are connected to each other by force fit.

[0130] Furthermore, the holding unit 600 may include a coupling unit 115 having a first coupling element 155. The second coupling element 160 may be omitted. The first coupling element 155 engages in the permanent magnet 105 radially on the inside, for example, and rests on a third end face 660 of the permanent magnet 105 facing away from the bridge element 35.

[0131] However, in embodiments the first coupling element 155 may also be omitted. The first coupling element 155 has, for example, a T-shaped configuration in cross section. The first coupling element 155 is formed from a ferromagnetic material and is axially displaceable relative to the armature 255 .

[0132] In the open position of the bridge element 35, the permanent magnet 105 is arranged axially between the first coupling element 155 and the armature end surface 605. Furthermore, the first coupling element 155 can reach the radially inner engagement portion 665 via the annular permanent magnet 105 and can engage in the third receiving portion 615 of the armature 255, which is also made of ferromagnetic material.

[0133] By means of the first coupling element 155 , the magnetic field 140 of the permanent magnet 105 is guided in the open position in such a way that a magnetic closure exists between the permanent magnet 105 , the armature 255 and the first coupling element 155 and the magnetic field 140 couples them to one another.

[0134] Fig.13 shows the high current switch 10 in Fig.12 Section E is marked in the figure.

[0135] exist Fig.13 In the embodiment, the bridge element 35 is moved into the intermediate position by means of the actuating force FA. As a result, the armature 255 is moved relative to the Fig.12 Axially offset arrangement (in Fig.13 In the intermediate position, the permanent magnet 105 contacts the second stop surface 655 and continues to be placed with the second end face 165 against the armature end surface 605. The magnetic coupling of the permanent magnet 105 to the armature 255 causes the permanent magnet 105 to form a kind of shoulder or edge.

[0136] Furthermore, a further movement of the permanent magnet 105 and the armature 255 together is blocked by the permanent magnet 105, which abuts with the second end face 165 against the first stop surface 655. Furthermore, the force-fit connection between the armature 255 and the permanent magnet 105 by means of the magnetic force FM is maintained by the permanent magnet 105 directly abutting against the armature 255. In this case, a particularly high braking force FB is provided by the holding unit 600 in order to prevent an unintentional movement of the armature 255 from the intermediate position in the direction of the contact position.

[0137] Fig.14 The high current switch 10 is shown in the contact position of the bridge element 35. Fig.12 Section E is shown in FIG.

[0138] In the contact position, the armature 255 is separated from the permanent magnet 105, so that there is a third axial gap 670 between the armature end surface 605 and the second end surface 165. In the contact position, the magnetic field 140 acts on the armature 255 only slightly (if at all), and thus the magnetic force FM is greatly reduced compared to the open position and the intermediate position. The magnetic force FM decreases as the distance a3 between the second end surface 165 and the armature end surface 605 increases, and thus the contact pressure of the armature 255 on the bridge element 35 is only slightly reduced (if at all) by the magnetic field 140.

[0139] In an embodiment, in the contact position, the magnetic field 140 of the permanent magnet 105 is guided between the sleeve 610 and the first coupling element 155. The magnetic field 140 enters the first coupling element 155 on the side facing away from the second stop surface 655, wherein the first coupling element 155 guides the magnetic field 140 back to the permanent magnet 105, so that the magnetic flux of the magnetic field 140 is closed in the contact position. This can further minimize the influence of the magnetic field 140 on the armature 255.

[0140] Fig.15 A second graph showing the gradient of the magnetic force FM plotted over the distance a3 from the second end face 165 to the armature end surface 605 is shown.

[0141] The second figure shows a second graph 505. The second graph 505 has a fifth graph portion 515 and a sixth graph portion 520 adjacent to the fifth graph portion 515.

[0142] If according to Figure 6 The method described in the embodiment operates the high current switch 10 by active control, and the actuation force FA has Figure 7 The progress shown in .

[0143] In this case, the magnetic force FM acting opposite to the actuating force FA decreases significantly as the distance A3 increases, wherein the magnetic force FM at the transition between the fifth graph portion 515 and the sixth graph portion 520 decreases again due to the fact that the first coupling element 155 leaves the third receiving portion 615 .

[0144] It should be noted that Figure 12 to Figure 14 The third embodiment of the high current switch 10 shown can of course also be used with Figures 1 to 11 Combination of the first and / or second embodiments shown.

[0145] Specifically, for example, it is feasible that, in addition to Figures 1 to 11 In addition to the first and / or second embodiments shown, Figure 12 to Figure 14 The third exemplary embodiment shown is arranged on the side facing away from the bridge element 35 . Figures 1 to 11 The first and / or second embodiment shown is Figure 12 to Figure 14 The combination of the third embodiment shown has the advantage that the bridge element 35 can also be subjected to very rapid accelerations without the bridge element 35 passing through an intermediate position into the contact position. The braking force FB is particularly high here.

[0146] Fig.16 The high current switch 10 according to the fourth embodiment is shown in FIG. Figure 1 Section E is marked in the figure.

[0147] The high current switch 10 is similar to the high current switch 10 according to the first embodiment. Figures 1 to 9 The high current switch 10 shown is substantially the same. Fig.16 The high current switch shown is similar to the high current switch according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 The differences in the high current switch 10 are shown.

[0148] In an embodiment, the permanent magnet 105 of the holding unit 600 is omitted and replaced by a spring device 700. The spring device 700 has at least one spring 705, preferably a plurality of springs 705 arranged in a stack along the lifting axis 60. The spring 705 can be configured, for example, as a disc spring. The spring 705 has at least one spring opening 710, which is arranged on the lifting axis 60. The spring 705 can, for example, be rotationally symmetrical about the lifting axis 60. In particular, when a plurality of springs 705 are arranged in a stack, the springs 705 can be arranged alternately with each other.

[0149] The coupling unit 115 is modified such that the first coupling element 155 is omitted and the second coupling element 160 is reduced to a first coupling element portion 185, which forms a guide element 715. The guide element 715 can be, for example, annular and connected to the housing 15. The second through-opening 195 is reduced to the effect that it forms a guide opening 720, which extends completely through the guide element 715 along the lifting axis 60.

[0150] The plunger 110 may be substantially as Figure 3 In contrast, the pin 120 has a first pin portion 725 and a second pin portion 730. The first pin portion 725 extends along the lifting axis 60 between the plunger portion 125 and a first stop surface 130 arranged on the first pin portion 725.

[0151] Axially opposite the first pin part 725, the second pin part 730 is connected to the plunger part 125 and is connected to the first pin part 725 on the side of the plunger part 125 facing away from the bridge element 35. The second pin part 730, like the first pin part 725, is configured to extend in a pin shape on the lifting axis 60. The second pin part 730 can, for example, be axially shorter than the first pin part 725 along the lifting axis 60. Moreover, laterally in the circumferential direction, the plunger part 125 protrudes over both the first pin part 725 and the second pin part 730. The first pin part 725 and / or the second pin part 730 can, for example, be configured rotationally symmetrically around the lifting axis 60, in particular cylindrically.

[0152] The second pin part 730 is arranged in the first receptacle 70. The second pin part 730 is accessible, for example, through the spring device 700, through a correspondingly provided spring opening 710. In this case, at least in the contact position of the bridge element 35, the second pin part 730 can completely penetrate the spring device 700 along the lifting axis 60 and protrude axially from the spring device 700 with a free end on the side facing away from the first pin part 725.

[0153] The first pin portion 725 reaches through the guide opening 720. In this case, the guide opening 720 and the third outer circumferential side 731 of the first pin portion 725 are formed corresponding to each other. In this case, the third outer circumferential side 731 of the first pin portion 725 is located inside against the guide opening 720, wherein the guide opening 720 is configured to prevent the plunger 110 from tilting around an axis perpendicular to the lifting axis 60. In particular, the guide opening 720 guides the first pin portion 725 during the movement of the plunger 110 along the lifting axis 60.

[0154] exist Fig.16, the bridge element 35 is in the open position and is therefore arranged axially spaced apart from the first stop surface 130 relative to the lifting axis 60. It is particularly advantageous if, in the open position of the bridge element 35, the spring 705, in particular the plurality of springs 705, of the spring device 700 in the first receptacle 70 is pretensioned.

[0155] Fig.17 The high current switch 10 is shown in the middle position of the bridge element 35. Figure 1 Part E shown in FIG.

[0156] exist Fig.17 If already in Figures 1 to 9 As explained in the foregoing, the bridge element 35 is displaced along the lifting axis 60 due to acceleration or due to an actuation of the armature 255 along the lifting axis 60 in the direction of the first and second switching contacts 40, 45. In this case, the bridge element 35 strikes the first stop surface 130 with the second receiving base 236. The holding unit 600 provides a braking force FB by means of a pre-tensioned spring device 700, which acts in the direction of the bridge element 35 along the lifting axis 60 in opposition to the actuation force FA. Here, the plunger 110 is held in its position by the braking force FB and the pre-tensioned spring device 700, and the plunger part 125 rests with the second contact surface 225 against the fourth end face 735 of the guide element 715.

[0157] The fourth end face 735 is preferably oriented in an inclined manner, preferably perpendicularly to the lifting axis 60, and is arranged on the axial side of the guide element 715 facing away from the bridge element 35. The spring device 700 presses the plunger part 125 against the fourth end face 735 by means of the braking force FB. By the second contact surface 225 lying against the fourth end face 735, a defined alignment of the plunger 110 is also ensured.

[0158] The pretensioned spring device 700 thus ensures the alignment of the plunger 110. Furthermore, the braking force FB with which the plunger 110 is held on the guide element 715 both in the open position and in the intermediate position can be particularly high.

[0159] Fig.18 A diagram of the spring force FF plotted over the compression distance n is shown.

[0160] The compression distance n is the distance that the spring device 700 is compressed.

[0161] In an embodiment, for example, the spring 705 of the spring device 700 can be configured as a steel coil spring and can include, for example, X10CrNi18-8 as a material. The spring force FF increases greatly as the compression increases along the compression distance n until the spring force FF reaches a maximum force 740 after a short compression distance n. After exceeding the maximum force 740, the spring force FF decreases sharply until the spring 705 cannot be compressed further and is compressed.

[0162] Fig.19 Shows Fig.16 and Fig.17 , while the bridge element 35 is located between the contact position and the intermediate position.

[0163] In this case, during the movement of the plunger 110 along the lifting axis 60, the first pin portion 725 is guided through the guide opening 720. On the path of the bridge element 35 from the intermediate position toward the contact position (at Fig.19 , the movement of the bridge element 35 is symbolically indicated by means of arrows), the guide element 715 remains fixed in position in the housing 15.

[0164] The plunger portion 125 compresses the spring device 700 and the spring 705 and presses them against the first receiving base 80. Fig.17 The spring force FF / compression distance n progression of the spring device 700 is shown in which, in the middle position, the braking force FB acting opposite to the actuating force FA along the lifting axis 60 is particularly strong and increases sharply as the distance of the bridge element 35 increases from the middle position toward the contact position up to a maximum force 740.

[0165] This has the advantage that even if the bridge element 35 moves beyond the intermediate position in the direction of the contact position due to high acceleration, the braking force FB increases as the contact position is approached and prevents the bridge element 35 from reaching the contact position if the bridge element 35 is unintentionally accelerated.

[0166] In this case, it is particularly advantageous if the spring device 700 is configured with respect to its maximum force 740 such that the maximum force 740 is already achieved well before the contact position. As a result, it can be ensured that even when the maximum force 740 is reached, there is a sufficient distance between the bridge element 35 and the switching contacts 40 , 45 .

[0167] Fig. 20 A diagram of a third graph 515 shows the actuation force FA over the travel distance D of the armature 255 for displacing the bridge element 35 from the open position OP via the intermediate position ZP into the contact position KP.

[0168] The second graph 505 is substantially the same as the first graph 500. Thus, the second graph 505 has a first graph portion 501, a second graph portion 502, a third graph portion 503 and at least a fourth graph portion 504.

[0169] If according to Figure 6 The method described in the embodiment operates the high current switch 10 by active control, and the actuation force FA has Fig. 20 The progress shown in .

[0170] In a second method step 310 , the armature 255 is moved along the lifting axis 60 by energizing the coil arrangement 250 , and the switching device 25 provides the actuating force FA.

[0171] By means of the coupling of the armature 255 , in a third method step 315 with the bridge element 35 , the spring device 700 is compressed by an actuation force FA which exceeds the maximum force 740 .

[0172] The structure of spring 705 as a disc spring has the following advantages: Fig.19 As explained in , the spring force FF decreases with further compression of the spring device 700. Therefore, the braking force FB in the third graph portion 503 is attenuated, and the switching device 25 can easily compress the spring device 700 until the bridge element 35 reaches the contact position.

[0173] In order to ensure particularly good retention of the electrical contact in the contact position, the over-travel spring 635 can be activated and compressed when the armature 255 is actively actuated (see fourth graph section 504). In the end position of the armature 255, the armature 255 can rest on the yoke of the switching device 25 and the magnetic flux is closed via the armature 255 and the contact position of the bridge element 35 can thus be securely maintained.

[0174] Fig.21 The high current switch 10 according to the fifth embodiment is shown in FIG. Figure 1 Section E is marked in the figure.

[0175] High current switch 10 with Figures 16 to 20 The high current switch 10 shown is substantially the same. Fig.21 The high current switch 10 shown is relatively Figures 16 to 20 The differences in the high current switch 10 are shown.

[0176] In an embodiment, the first receiving portion 70 is radially expanded relative to the lifting axis 60. As a result, the spring device 700 is larger than Figures 16 to 20 In addition, Figures 16 to 20In comparison, the number of springs 705 can be reduced. In this embodiment, the spring device 700 has only the spring 705.

[0177] The spring 705 can be constructed in the manner of a disc spring. In this case, the spring 705 is fixedly connected to the housing 15 at a radially outer end 745, for example.

[0178] Fig. 22 Shows Fig.21 0 is a perspective view of a spring 705 of a spring arrangement 700 of a high current switch 10 shown in FIG.

[0179] The spring 705 is designed in the manner of a disc spring. In this case, the spring 705 can be reduced to the effect that the spring 705 is designed essentially in a strip-like manner in a direction perpendicular to the lifting axis 60 in relation to a rotationally symmetrical disc spring. On the radial outside, the spring 705 can have a plate-like first partial portion 750 for engagement in the housing 15. On the radial inside of the first partial portion 750, the spring 705 has an essentially S-shaped curved run toward the spring opening 710. By means of the S-shaped curved second partial portion 755, it can be achieved that Fig. 20 The force progression of the spring 705 is shown in FIG. The spring opening 710 is arranged centrally and at the spring opening 710 the spring 705 is formed axially offset from the first partial portion 750 .

Claims

1. A high-current switch (10), in particular a contactor, in particular a bridge contactor, for an electrical energy storage device of a vehicle, in, The high-current switch (10) comprises a housing (15), a braking device (20), a first switching contact (40), a second switching contact (45) arranged offset from the first switching contact (40), and a switching device (25) having a bridge element (35). The bridge element (35) is movable in the housing (15) along a lifting axis (60) between an open position, an intermediate position and a contact position. wherein, in the contact position of the bridge element (35), the bridge element (35) contacts the first switching contact (40) and the second switching contact (45) and electrically connects them to one another, wherein, in the open position and the intermediate position of the bridge element (35), the bridge element (35) is arranged to be spaced apart from the first switching contact (40) and the second switching contact (45), and the first switching contact (40) and the second switching contact (45) are electrically isolated from each other, wherein the intermediate position is arranged between the open position and the contact position relative to the lifting axis (60), The brake device (20) has a holding unit (600) which is operatively connected to the bridge element (35) in the intermediate position by means of an operative connection and provides a braking force (FB) which acts on the bridge element (35). wherein, in the contact position, the operative connection between the holding unit (600) and the bridge element is reduced, During the movement of the bridge element (35) from the open position in the direction of the contact position, at least in the intermediate position, the holding unit (600) acts with the braking force (FB) in opposition to the movement of the bridge element (35).

2. The high current switch (10) according to claim 1, in, The holding unit (600) has a permanent magnet (105). The permanent magnet (105) provides a magnetic field (140). Wherein, in the intermediate position, the permanent magnet (105) provides the operative connection.

3. The high current switch (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The switching device (25) comprises a coil device (250) and an armature (255) arranged on the coil device (250). wherein the armature (255) is mechanically connected to the bridge element (35), When the coil device (250) is energized with current, the coil device (250) is configured to move the armature (255) along the lifting axis (60) so that the armature (255) moves the bridge element (35) between the open position and the contact position via the intermediate position.

4. The high current switch according to claims 2 and 3, in, The switching device (25) has a sleeve (610) extending along the lifting axis (60). wherein the armature (255) is at least partially arranged in the sleeve (610), The sleeve (610) has a stop surface (655) on a side facing the permanent magnet (105), and the stop surface (655) is arranged to be inclined relative to the lifting axis (60). The permanent magnet (105) has a second end surface (165), and the armature (255) has an armature end surface (605) on a side facing the permanent magnet (105). wherein, in the open position, the permanent magnet (105) abuts against the armature end face (605) and is arranged to be spaced apart from the stop surface (655), Therein, in the intermediate position, the permanent magnet (105) abuts against the stop surface (655) and generates the braking force (FB).

5. A high current switch according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The brake device (20) has a plunger (110), which extends along the lifting axis (60) and is arranged in the housing (15) movably along the lifting axis (60) independently of the bridge element (35). wherein, in the open position, the plunger (110) is arranged to be spaced apart from the bridge element (35), Wherein, during the movement of the bridge element (35) from the open position toward the contact position to the intermediate position, the bridge element (35) contacts the plunger (110) to form the operative connection.

6. The high current switch (10) according to claim 5 and claim 2, in, In the intermediate position and / or the open position, the permanent magnet (105) fixes the plunger (110).

7. The high current switch (10) according to claim 5 or 6, in, The plunger (110) has a plunger portion (125) extending outward in a radial direction and a pin (120) connected to the plunger portion (125) and extending along the lifting axis (60), wherein the plunger portion (125) is arranged on a side of the pin (120) facing away from the bridge element (35), Wherein, in the open position and the intermediate position, the plunger portion (125) is arranged within the effective range of the magnetic field (140).

8. The high current switch (10) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, in, The brake device (20) comprises a coupling unit (115), wherein the coupling unit (115) is connected to the housing (15) and has a second through opening (195), wherein the plunger (110) at least partially passes through the second through opening (195), Preferably, the plunger (110) and the second through opening (195) are formed corresponding to the guidance of the plunger (110) along the lifting axis (60).

9. The high current switch (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The holding unit (600) has at least one spring device (700), wherein the plunger (110) is connected to the spring device (700), Wherein, the spring device (700) provides the braking force (FB), wherein the spring device (700) is tensioned during the movement of the bridge element (35) from the intermediate position in the direction of the contact position, Wherein, preferably, the spring device (700) is pre-tensioned at the intermediate position, Preferably, the spring device (700) has at least one spring (705) constructed in the manner of a disc spring, or a plurality of springs (705) arranged in a stacked manner. Therein, in the contact position, the spring device (700) is at least partially relaxed.

10. The high current switch according to claim 9 and claim 5, in, The spring device (700) is arranged between the housing (15) and the plunger (110). The plunger (110) abuts against the spring device (700), and the spring device (700) acts against the plunger (110).

11. A method for operating a high current switch (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The bridge element (35) is moved into the open position, wherein the bridge element (35) is moved with an actuation force (FA) along the lifting axis (60), in particular due to an unintentional acceleration, from the open position in the direction of the contact position, wherein, at least in the intermediate position, the holding unit (600) is operatively connected to the bridge element (35), and the braking force (FB) acts on the bridge element (35) in opposition to the movement of the bridge element (35) and the actuating force (FA), Therein, the bridge element (35) moves from the central position into the contact position after overcoming the braking force (FB), and the operative connection is reduced.

12. The method according to claim 11 for operating a high current switch according to claim 2, in, In the intermediate position, the braking force (FB) acting on the bridge element (35) is generated magnetically, Wherein, during the movement of the bridge element (35) from the intermediate position to the contact position, the magnetic effect of the permanent magnet (105) decreases.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, for operating a high current switch (10) according to claim 10, in, During the movement of the bridge element (35) from the intermediate position to the contact position, the spring device (700) is tensioned and acts on the bridge element (35) with the braking force (FB), Therein, as the bridge element (35) gets closer to the contact position, the braking force (FB) decreases.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, for operating a high current switch (10) according to any one of claims 4 to 10, in, In the open position, the permanent magnet (105) abuts against the armature (255), wherein, in the intermediate position, the permanent magnet (105) strikes against the stop surface (655) with the second end face (165) and operably magnetically connects the armature (255) to the sleeve (610), Wherein, during the movement of the bridge element from the intermediate position to the contact position, the armature (255) is separated from the permanent magnet (105).

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