Multi-pole electrical wiring device with wire termination assembly

Abstract

A multi-pole or multi-phase electrical wiring apparatus incorporating a clamp-type wire termination assembly is described. The electrical wiring device includes a multipole motor switch. The electrical wiring device includes a plurality of wire termination assemblies. Each wire termination assembly includes a wire terminator and an activation member.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is based on co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 425,891, filed on November 16, 2023, entitled “Multi-Pole Electrical Wiring Devices with Wire Termination Assemblies,” and co-pending U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 449,692, filed on March 3, 2023, entitled “Multi-Pole Electrical Wiring Devices with Wire Termination Assemblies,” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 449,700, filed on March 3, 2023, entitled “Multi-Pole Electrical Wiring Devices with Wire Termination Assemblies,” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 449,700, filed on March 3, 2023, entitled “Multi-Pole Electrical Wiring Devices with Wire Termination Assemblies.” and claims the benefit of co-pending U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 449,708, entitled "Multi-Pole Electrical Wiring Devices with Wire Termination Assemblies," the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to wire termination assemblies for multi-phase or multi-pole electrical wiring devices and, more particularly, to screwless wire termination assemblies for multi-pole or multi-phase disconnect switches. Background Art

[0004] Existing electrical wire terminations in many electrical wiring devices are either direct pressure type terminations or screw and clamp type terminations. In direct pressure type terminations, the termination screw is tightened directly onto the electrical wire to press the wire against a fixed plate. In screw and clamp type terminations, the wire is inserted between a fixed plate and a movable plate, and the termination screw is tightened so that the wire is clamped between the plates. Screw terminations increase the time to install an electrical wiring device, especially a multi-pole electrical wiring device where two or more wires must be connected to the wiring device. For example, for a three-phase electrical motor, it is typically controlled by a motor disconnect switch. Current motor disconnect switches are typically terminated using threaded fasteners (e.g., screws) that are sensitive to torque requirements to achieve proper wire termination strength. In addition, the screw terminations may loosen when the motor disconnect switch is subjected to vibration. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure provides various embodiments of multi-pole or multi-phase electrical wiring devices, including but not limited to motor disconnect switches and load control switches. An exemplary embodiment of a multi-pole electrical wiring device includes a housing, at least one wire termination assembly, and at least one activation member. The housing has an at least partially hollow interior, at least one wire receiving opening, and at least one activation member opening. The at least one wire termination assembly is positioned in the hollow portion of the interior of the housing so that the at least one wire termination assembly is accessible from the at least one wire receiving opening. The at least one activation member extends at least partially through the at least one activation member opening. The activation member interacts with the at least one wire termination assembly so that movement of the activation member in a first direction toward a first position causes the at least one wire termination assembly to automatically move to a closed position, thereby clamping a wire inserted into the wire receiving opening and positioned in the at least one wire termination assembly. The at least one wire termination assembly may include a wire compression member for use in clamping the wire positioned in the at least one wire termination assembly. The at least one wire termination assembly includes a biasing member, such as a spring or a spring member. The activation member interacts with at least one wire termination assembly so that movement of the activation member in the second direction to the second position causes the at least one wire termination assembly to move to the open position, thereby releasing the wire within the at least one wire termination assembly. When the at least one wire termination assembly is in the closed position, the at least one wire termination assembly can clamp the wire with a force substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the wire positioned within the at least one wire termination assembly. The at least one activation member can be configured to remain in the first position or the second position until manually moved to the other position. The movement of the activation member in the second direction can be opposite to the movement of the activation member in the first direction. The movement of the activation member in the first and second directions can be linear movement or motion, rotational movement or motion, torque movement or motion, pivotal movement or motion, torsional movement or motion, or a combination of movements. Preferably, the movement of the activation member in the first and second directions is linear movement or motion. The movement of the activation member can be relative to the housing. For example, the movement of the activation member in the first direction can be outward relative to the housing, while the movement of the activation member in the second direction can be inward relative to the housing.

[0006] Another exemplary embodiment of a multi-pole electrical wiring device includes a housing, a plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies, and a plurality of load-side wire termination assemblies. The housing has an at least partially hollow interior, a plurality of wire receiving openings, and a plurality of activation member openings. Each of the plurality of wire receiving openings provides access to the hollow portion of the interior of the housing from the exterior of the housing, and each of the plurality of activation member openings provides access to the hollow portion of the interior of the housing from the exterior of the housing. The plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies and the plurality of load-side wire termination assemblies are positioned in the hollow portion of the interior of the housing so that one of the plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies is accessible from one of the plurality of wire receiving openings and one of the plurality of activation member openings. Each of the plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies and the load-side wire termination assemblies includes a wire termination and an activation member. The wire termination includes a clamp bracket electrically connected to a clamping member. The clamping member is movable between a closed position in which a wire can be clamped between the clamping member and the clamp holder, and an open position in which a wire can be inserted through one of a plurality of wire receiving openings in the housing and positioned between the clamping member and the clamp holder. The activation member extends at least partially through one of the plurality of activation member openings in the housing. The activation member interacts with the clamping member such that movement of the activation member in a first direction causes the activation member to apply a mechanical load to the clamping member, thereby causing the clamping member to move from the closed position to the open position, and movement of the activation member in a second direction removes the mechanical load from the clamping member, causing the clamping member to move from the open position to the closed position.

[0007] Another exemplary embodiment of a multi-pole electrical wiring device includes a housing, a plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies, and a plurality of load-side wire termination assemblies. The housing has an at least partially hollow interior, a plurality of wire receiving openings, and a plurality of activation member openings. Each of the plurality of wire receiving openings provides access to the hollow portion of the interior of the housing from the exterior of the housing, and each of the plurality of activation member openings provides access to the hollow portion of the interior of the housing from the exterior of the housing. The plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies and the plurality of load-side wire termination assemblies are positioned in the hollow portion of the interior of the housing so that one of the plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies and one of the load-side wire termination assemblies are accessible from one of the plurality of wire receiving openings and one of the plurality of activation member openings. Each of the plurality of load-side wire termination assemblies and the plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies includes a wire termination member and an activation member. The wire termination member includes a clamp bracket electrically connected to a clamping member. The clamping member is movable between a closed position in which a wire can be clamped between the clamping member and the clamp support, and an open position in which a wire can be inserted through one of a plurality of wire receiving openings in the housing and between the clamping member and the clamp support. The activation member extends at least partially through one of the plurality of activation member openings in the housing. The activation member interacts with the clamping member such that movement of the activation member in a first direction causes the activation member to move the clamping member from the closed position to the open position, and movement of the activation member in a second direction allows the clamping member to automatically move from the open position to the closed position.

[0008] Another exemplary embodiment of a multi-pole electrical wiring device includes a housing, a plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies, and a plurality of load-side wire termination assemblies. The housing has an at least partially hollow interior, a plurality of wire receiving openings, and a plurality of activation member openings. Each of the plurality of wire receiving openings provides access to the hollow portion of the interior of the housing from the outside of the housing, and each of the plurality of activation member openings provides access to the hollow portion of the interior of the housing from the outside of the housing. The plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies and the plurality of load-side wire termination assemblies are positioned within the interior of the housing so that one of the plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies and the load-side wire termination assemblies can be accessed from one of the plurality of wire receiving openings and one of the plurality of activation member openings. Each of the plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies and the load-side wire termination assemblies includes a wire termination and an activation member. The wire termination includes a clamp bracket electrically connected to a clamping member. The clamping member is movable between a closed position in which a wire can be clamped between the clamping member and the clamp support, and an open position in which a wire can be inserted between the clamping member and the clamp support. The activation member extends at least partially through one of a plurality of activation member openings in the housing. The activation member interacts with the clamping member such that movement of the activation member in a first direction from a first position to a second position causes the activation member to move the clamping member from the closed position to the open position, and movement of the activation member in a second direction allows the clamping member to automatically move from the open position to the closed position, wherein the activation member remains in the first position or the second position until manually moved.

[0009] For each embodiment contemplated by the present disclosure, the clamping member for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly can be a biasing member. A non-limiting example of a biasing member is a spring. Furthermore, for each embodiment contemplated by the present disclosure, the movement of the activation member for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in the second direction is opposite to the movement of the activation member in the first direction. The movement of the activation member for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in the first and second directions can be parallel to the clamp support. The movement of the activation member for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in the first and second directions can be linear. The movement of the activation member for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in the first and second directions can be relative to the clamping member. Furthermore, the movement of the activation member for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in the first direction can be outward relative to the housing, while the movement of the activation member in the second direction can be inward relative to the housing. Furthermore, when in the closed position, the clamping members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly can clamp the wire with a force substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the wire. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The present disclosure and its many attendant advantages may be better understood and more fully appreciated by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 is a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a multi-pole electrical wiring device according to the present disclosure, including an exemplary embodiment of a wire termination assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A bottom perspective view of a multi-pole electrical wiring device;

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An exploded bottom perspective view of a multi-pole electrical wiring device showing a wire termination assembly within the multi-pole electrical wiring device;

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 a top plan view of a multi-pole electrical wiring device showing a plurality of wires ready to be inserted into a wire termination assembly within the multi-pole electrical wiring device;

[0015] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 another top perspective view of a multi-pole electrical wiring device showing electrical wires connected to a wire termination assembly within the multi-pole electrical wiring device and electrical wires ready to be inserted into a wire termination assembly within the multi-pole electrical wiring device;

[0016] Figure 6 is a bottom perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a multi-pole electrical wiring device according to the present disclosure, showing a main electrical wiring device and an auxiliary electrical wiring device attached to the main electrical wiring device;

[0017] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An exploded bottom perspective view of an electrical wiring device of FIG. 1 showing the auxiliary electrical wiring device separate from the main electrical wiring device;

[0018] Figure 8 It is taken from detail 8 Figure 3 an enlarged perspective view of a portion of an electrical wiring device illustrating a wire termination assembly within the electrical wiring device;

[0019] Figure 9 is combined with Figure 8 A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a wire termination assembly in an electrical wiring device;

[0020] Figure 10 is Figure 3a side view of two wire termination assemblies within an electrical wiring device of FIG. 2 , which, when in a closed position, form a conductive path between wires connected to the two wire termination assemblies; and

[0021] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 a side view of one of the wire termination assemblies, showing the wire termination assembly in a closed position;

[0022] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 , showing a side view of a wire termination assembly opened and an electrical wire inserted into the wire termination assembly;

[0023] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 , showing a side view of a wire termination assembly in a closed position such that an electrical wire is clamped to the wire termination assembly;

[0024] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary use configuration of a multi-pole electrical wiring device according to the present disclosure, showing a three-phase motor and a three-phase motor disconnect switch assembly for controlling operation of the motor;

[0025] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 an exploded perspective view of a motor disconnect switch assembly showing a multi-pole electrical wiring arrangement within the housing;

[0026] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of another exemplary use configuration of a multi-pole electrical wiring device according to the present disclosure, showing a three-phase motor, a three-phase motor drive unit, and a multi-pole motor disconnect switch assembly between the motor and the motor drive unit; and

[0027] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 An exploded perspective view of a motor disconnect switch assembly showing a multi-pole main electrical wiring device within the housing and an auxiliary electrical wiring device attached to the main electrical wiring device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Exemplary embodiments of multi-pole or multi-phase electrical wiring devices incorporating wire termination assemblies according to the present disclosure are shown and described. Non-limiting examples of multi-pole or multi-phase electrical wiring devices contemplated by the present disclosure include motor disconnect switches and load control switches. In some embodiments, the motor disconnect switch may include one or more auxiliary disconnect switches. The wire termination assemblies contemplated by the present disclosure do not utilize screws or similar fasteners to connect electrical wires to the multi-pole or multi-phase electrical wiring devices.

[0029] For ease of description, the multi-pole or multi-phase electrical wiring devices contemplated by the present disclosure may also be referred to herein as "electrical wiring devices" in the plural and "electrical wiring devices" in the singular. For ease of description, the wire termination assemblies may also be referred to herein as "terminations" in the plural and "terminations" in the singular. Furthermore, the electrical conductors may also be referred to as "wires" in the plural and "wires" in the singular. Furthermore, the electrical conductors may be any size wire for conducting electricity, such as 14AWG wire, 12AWG wire, 10AWG wire, or 8AWG wire. Typically, 14AWG wire is rated for between 15 and 18 amperes, 12AWG wire is rated for between 20 and 25 amperes, 10AWG wire is rated for between 25 and 30 amperes, and 8AWG wire is rated for between 35 and 40 amperes.

[0030] exist Figure 1-Figure 5 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the electrical wiring device may be a multi-pole switch, such as a three-pole switch. Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the exemplary embodiment shown, a multi-pole or multi-phase electrical wiring device will Figure 1-Figure 5 The multi-pole switch is combined with an auxiliary switch. For ease of description, the multi-pole switch may also be referred to herein as a "switch" in the singular and "switches" in the plural. The envisioned switch and auxiliary switch can be used to control the operation of a multi-phase motor (e.g., a three-phase motor).

[0031] Reference Figure 1-Figure 5 In an exemplary embodiment, the switch 10 has a housing 12 that includes a main body portion 14, a pair of wire attachment portions 16 and a wire attachment portion 18, a top portion 20, and a base 22. The housing 12 is preferably made of a suitable electrically insulating material, such as a plastic, including an injection molded thermoplastic material, and can be a stand-alone unit or configured to be assembled within an electrical enclosure. Within the main body portion 14 of the housing 12 are components that perform the make and break functions of the switch 10. Non-limiting examples of components within the main body portion that perform the make and break functions of the switch 10 are included in, for example, the HBLDS3RS disconnect switch sold by Hubbell, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Typically, the main body portion 14 includes a plurality of spring-loaded switch contacts 100, such as Figure 3As shown, these contacts can be accessed when the base 22 is removed from the housing 12. Each switch contact 100 acts as a jumper between a corresponding pair of wire termination assemblies 200, which are at least partially positioned within the wire attachment portion 16 and the wire attachment portion 18 and are accessible from the wire attachment portion. The top portion 20 of the housing 12 includes an on / off control assembly 24. The on / off control assembly 24 is operably connected to the switch contacts 100 so that the on / off control assembly 24 moves the switch contacts 100 between the on and off positions. Each wire attachment portion 16 and the wire attachment portion 18 is fixed to the main body portion 14 or formed integrally therein. Each wire attachment portion 16 and the wire attachment portion 18 includes one or more chambers or cavities 30 (see Figure 3 ), one or more wire receiving openings 32 and one or more activation member openings 34. In the exemplary embodiment shown, each wire attachment portion 16 and wire attachment portion 18 includes a plurality of chambers or cavities 30. Figure 3 As shown, each chamber or cavity 30 is configured to receive and position a wire termination assembly 200 within the wire attachment portion 16 or the wire attachment portion 18. In the exemplary embodiment shown, each wire attachment portion 16 and the wire attachment portion 18 includes a plurality of wire receiving openings 32 and a plurality of activation member openings 34, as shown. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this configuration, one of the plurality of wire receiving openings 32 and one of the plurality of activation member openings 34 provide access from the exterior of the housing 12 to one of the plurality of chambers or cavities 30 .

[0032] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 In an exemplary embodiment, a multi-pole or multi-phase electrical wiring device is a switch 50 that incorporates Figure 1-Figure 5 A multi-pole switch 10 and one or more auxiliary switches 60 are provided. In the illustrated embodiment, a single auxiliary switch is shown. The auxiliary switch 60 has a housing 62 that includes a pair of wire attachment portions 64 and a wire attachment portion 66. The housing 62 is preferably made of a suitable electrically insulating material, such as a plastic, including injection molded thermoplastics, and can be a stand-alone unit or configured to fit within an electrical enclosure. Within the housing 62 are components that perform the make and break functions of the switch 60. Non-limiting examples of components within the housing 62 that perform the make and break functions of the switch 60 are included in, for example, the HBLAC2 auxiliary disconnect switch sold by Hubbell, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Typically, the housing 62 includes spring-loaded switch contacts (not shown) that are similar to the switch contacts 100, such as Figure 3 As shown and described above. Similar to Figure 3As shown, the switch contacts 100 act as jumpers between a pair of wire termination assemblies 200 that are at least partially positioned within the wire attachment portion 64 and the wire attachment portion 66. To move the switch contacts between the make and break positions, a switch arm 70 is operably coupled to components within the housing 62 that perform the make and break functions of the switch 60. More specifically, the body 14 of the housing 12 of the switch 10 has an auxiliary trigger arm 36 that is operably coupled to components within the body 14 of the housing 12 that perform the make and break functions of the switch 10. Figure 7 As shown, the auxiliary trigger arm 36 has a recess 38 accessible from the exterior of the body 14 of the housing 12. Figure 7 As shown, the switch arm 70 includes a protrusion 72 extending from the housing 62. The protrusion 72 is configured and dimensioned to be received in the recess 38 of the auxiliary trigger arm 36 so that when the switch 10 is in the on position, the auxiliary trigger arm 36 causes the switch arm 70 to move the switch contacts within the housing 62 to the on position, and when the switch 10 is in the off position, the auxiliary trigger arm 36 causes the switch arm 70 to move the switch contacts within the housing 62 to the off position.

[0033] Continue to refer Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the housing 62 includes one or more chambers or cavities (not shown) similar to the chambers or cavities 30 described above. Each chamber or cavity is configured to receive and position a wire termination assembly 200 within the housing 62. Each wire attachment portion 64 and wire attachment portion 66 is fixed to the housing 62 or formed integrally therein and includes a wire receiving opening 68 and an activation member opening 69. In this configuration, one of the plurality of wire receiving openings 68 and one of the plurality of activation member openings 69 provide access from the exterior of the housing 62 to one of the plurality of chambers or cavities within the housing 62. Each wire termination assembly 200 is configured to receive and clamp a wire (e.g., Figure 5 The wire 700 shown is connected to the switch 60 and mates with the switch contacts of the switch 60.

[0034] Steering Figures 8-10 , shows an exemplary embodiment of a wire termination assembly 200 according to the present disclosure. Each wire termination assembly 200 is configured to terminate a wire (e.g. Figure 5Wire 700 (shown in FIG) is received and clamped to switch 10 and engages with switch contacts 100 of switch 10. In the exemplary embodiment shown, wire termination assembly 200 includes wire termination 210 and activation member 250. Wire termination 210 is at least partially made of a conductive material, such as brass, copper, or aluminum. In an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of wire termination 210 is made of a resilient material having sufficient rigidity to bend when a mechanical load is applied and return to its normal position when the load is removed. An example of such a resilient material is spring steel. Wire termination 210 can be formed as a unitary structure, or it can be separate components secured together by, for example, a soldered, brazed, or welded joint. Activation member 250 is made of a suitable rigid electrically insulating material, such as a plastic material. An example of a plastic material is an injection-molded thermoplastic. Activation member 250 may also be referred to herein as "plunger" in the singular and "plungers" in the plural.

[0035] Continue to refer Figures 8-10 , the wire termination 210 is a mechanical clamping termination that may utilize one or more clamping members 214 that may deflect under a mechanical load applied by the plunger 250 and return to their original shape when the mechanical load is removed. The energy stored by the one or more clamping members 214 should be sufficient to apply a constant and continuous force to clamp one or more wires (e.g., Figure 4 and Figure 5 The wire 700 shown in FIG is mechanically secured to the wire termination 210. Figures 8-10 In the exemplary construction shown, the wire termination 210 includes a clamp bracket 212 and a clamping member 214. The clamp bracket 212 is a fixed termination body that can be a substantially planar shaped member or an arcuate shaped member having a first end 212a secured to the clamping member 214. The clamp bracket 212 can be secured to the clamping member 214 by, for example, a soldered joint, a brazed joint, or a welded joint. The clamp bracket 212 has a second end 212b that extends from the wire attachment portion 16 or the wire attachment portion 18 into the main body portion 14 of the housing 12. Preferably, the second end 212b of the clamp bracket 212 is fixed or secured to the main body portion 14 of the housing 12 to limit and possibly prevent the second end 212b of the clamp bracket 212 from bending during operation of the switch 10. In an exemplary embodiment, a portion of the second end 212b of the clamp bracket 212 can be positioned within a slot on the portion 14a of the main body portion 14. In addition, as Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, a portion of the second end 212b of the clamp bracket 212 can rest on or be secured to the wall 14b within the main body portion 14 of the housing. By resting the second end 212b of the clamp bracket 212 on the wall 14b or securing the second end 212b of the clamp bracket 212 to the wall, bending of the second end 212b of the clamp bracket 212 in the direction of arrow "A" is limited or possibly prevented. Figure 10 As shown, the second end 212 b of the clamp bracket 212 may include an electrical contact pad 220 configured and dimensioned to contact the electrical contact pad 102 on the switch contact 100 .

[0036] refer to Figures 8-13 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the clamping member 214 can be a biasing member. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the biasing member is a spring including an end portion 222, a spring member 224, and a clamping arm 226. The end portion 222 can be a substantially planar shaped member or an arcuate shaped member that is configured to cooperate with the clamp bracket 212 and is secured to the clamp bracket by, for example, a welded joint, a brazed joint, or a soldered joint. The spring member 224 has a lower lobe 224a and an upper lobe 224b. The lower lobe 224a and the upper lobe 224b are configured to interact with the plunger 250 such that movement of the plunger relative to the spring member 224 is converted into applying a mechanical load on the spring member 224, or removing a mechanical load on the spring member. For example, as Figure 8 and Figure 10 As shown, the plunger 250 may be a rectangular shaped member having a recess 252 configured to receive the upper cam 224b of the spring member 224. The recess 252 has a cam surface 252a that is formed when the plunger 250 is in the Figure 12 When moving in the direction of arrow "B", the cam surface travels along the spring member 224, exerting a mechanical load on the spring member 224, causing the spring member to deflect in the direction of arrow "C" toward the open position. As shown, the clamping arm 226 extends from the upper cam 224b of the spring member 224 toward the clamp bracket 212. The clamping arm 226 has an elongated opening 228 that is configured to receive a portion of the clamp bracket 212 and at least a portion of the wire compression member 230. Figure 13 As shown, when the wire is positioned between the clamp support 212 and the wire compression member 230 and the clamping member 214 is in the closed position, the wire compression member 230 is configured to contact and compress the wire (e.g., Figure 12 and Figure 13 The wire 700 shown in FIG. 2 is against the clamp support 212. The clamp arm 226 can be positioned relative to the clamp support 212. Figure 11 and Figure 13 Closed position shown and Figure 12Move between the open positions shown.

[0037] As mentioned above, wire termination 210 can be connected to electrical conductors of different sizes. For example, if an electrical wiring device (e.g., switch 10) is rated for 20 amperes, wire termination 210 should also be configured and rated for at least 20 amperes. The wire size (i.e., bare wire size) for 20 amperes is 12AWG wire, so that clamping arm 226 should be able to move to an open position where the outer diameter of the 12AWG wire can be assembled. As another example, if an electrical wiring device is rated for 30 amperes, wire termination 210 should also be rated for at least 30 amperes. The wire size (i.e., bare wire size) for 30 amperes is 10AWG wire, so that clamping arm 226 should be able to move to an open position where the outer diameter of the 10AWG wire can be assembled. As another example, if an electrical wiring device is rated for 40 amperes, wire termination 210 should also be rated for at least 40 amperes. The wire size (i.e., bare wire size) for 40 amps is 8 AWG wire, so the clamping arm 226 should be able to move to an open position where the outer diameter of the 8 AWG wire can fit. As another example, if the blade-type electrical outlet is rated for 50 amps, then the wire termination 210 should also be rated for at least 50 amps. The wire size (i.e., bare wire size) for 50 amps is 6 AWG wire, so the clamping arm 226 should be able to move to an open position where the outer diameter of the 6 AWG wire can fit.

[0038] The spring member 224 is made of an elastic material having sufficient rigidity to Figure 11 Push to the closed position shown Figure 12 As described above, when in the closed position, the spring member 224 can apply a force (e.g., a spring force) to the wire 700 inserted between the wire pressing member 230 and the clamp support 212 via the wire pressing member 230, as shown. Figure 13 As shown. As an example, the spring member 224 can be made of metal, such as spring steel. The biasing force (e.g., spring force) applied by the spring member 224 to clamp the wire between the wire pressing member 230 and the clamp support 212 should be sufficient to apply a constant and continuous force on the wire to electrically couple or connect the wire 700 to the wire termination 210 under various temperature and environmental conditions. Figure 13 As shown, the spring member 224 is configured so that it is normally biased toward the closed position, i.e., in the direction of arrow "D" away from the clamp bracket 212. In the normal position of the spring member 224, in the absence of a conductor inserted into the elongated opening 228, the wire pressing member 230 of the clamp arm 226 can contact the clamp bracket 212, as shown in FIG. Figure 11 shown.

[0039] refer to Figure 11-Figure 15 , shows an exemplary embodiment of a use scenario for the switch 10 described herein. In this exemplary embodiment, a 30-amp three-phase electric motor 300 is controlled by a disconnect switch assembly 310. The disconnect switch assembly 310 includes an electrical housing or box 312 having a body 314 and a removable cover 316. For ease of description, the electrical housing or box 312 may also be referred to herein as a "housing" in the singular and "housings" in the plural. The housing 312 may be a weatherproof or waterproof housing. The switch 10 is secured in the body 314 of the housing 312. As described herein, Figure 1 The illustrated switch 10 uses a wire termination assembly 200 to terminate electrical conductors or wires within the housing 312. To connect the wires within the housing 312 to the switch 10, an installer (e.g., an electrician) strips the insulation from the end of each wire, such as Figure 12 As shown. Figure 14-15 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the switch 10 is a three-pole switch having six wire termination assemblies 200 so that six wires can be connected to the switch 10. The six wires include line-side phase 1, phase 2, and phase 3 wires, and load-side phase 1, phase 2, and phase 3 wires. However, it is also contemplated that each wire termination assembly 200 can be configured to electrically connect more than one wire to the wire termination assembly 200. The plunger 250 of each wire termination assembly 200 extends through the activation member opening 34 in the wire attachment portion 16 or the wire attachment portion 18 of the switch housing 12. The portion of the plunger 250 that extends from the housing 12 then retracts. Figure 12 , which in this case is outward relative to the wire attachment portion 16 or the wire attachment portion 18 of the housing 12. Moving the plunger 250 in the direction of arrow "B" causes the cam surface 252a of the recess 252 in the plunger 250 to travel along the spring member 224, thereby applying a mechanical load on the spring member 224. Applying a mechanical load on the spring member 224 causes the spring member 224 to move in a direction outward relative to the wire attachment portion 16 or the wire attachment portion 18 of the housing 12. Figure 12 18. The wire 700 is then deflected from the closed position to the open position in the direction of arrow "C" shown in FIG. With the wire termination 210 in the open position, the wire 700 is then inserted into the appropriate wire receiving opening 32 in the wire attachment portion 16 or the wire attachment portion 18 of the switch housing 12, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown. The wire receiving opening 32 also guides the exposed ends of the wires 700 into the portion of the elongated opening 128 of the clamping member 214 between the clamping bracket 212 and the wire pressing member 230. When the exposed end of each wire 700 is positioned between the clamp bracket 212 and the wire pressing member 230, the corresponding plunger 250 is then moved, for example, pushed in the direction of arrow "E", as shown. Figure 13, back into the activation member opening 34 in the wire attachment portion 16 or the wire attachment portion 18. Moving the plunger 250 in the direction of arrow "E" removes the mechanical load applied by the plunger 250 on the spring member 224, causing the energy stored by the spring member 224 to move the spring member 224 to the closed position with sufficient force to secure or clamp the wire 700 between the clamp holder 212 and the wire compression member 230, completing the electrical conductive path between the wire 700 and the wire termination assembly 200. It should be noted that when the plunger 250 is moved in the direction of arrow "B" to the first position, the distance that the plunger 250 extends out of the wire attachment portion 16 or the wire attachment portion 18 of the housing 12 is greater than the distance when the plunger 250 is moved in the direction of arrow "E" to the second position, as shown. Figure 5 As shown. The second direction can be a direction opposite to the first direction. In addition, it should be noted that when the plunger is moved to the first position or the second position, the plunger 250 can remain in the first position or the second position until the plunger is manually moved to another position.

[0040] With the wire 700 connected to the switch 10 and the motor 300, when the control knob 318 rotatably attached to the switch cover 316 is rotated from the "off" position to the "on" position, the drive rod 320 attached to the control knob 318 rotates the open and close control assembly 24, so that the contact pad 102 of the switch contact 100 of the switch 10 engages with the electrical contact pad 220 on the clamp bracket 212 of the wire termination assembly 200, completing the conductive path from the wire 700 to the motor 300, turning on the motor.

[0041] refer to Figure 11-13 、 Figure 16 and Figure 17 , shows an exemplary embodiment of a use scenario for the switch 50 described herein. In this exemplary embodiment, a 30 amp three-phase motor 300 is controlled by a disconnect switch assembly 310 and a motor driver 330. The disconnect switch assembly 310 is the same as described above, except that the switch 50 is used instead of the switch 10. To connect the wires within the housing 312 to the switch 50, the installer (e.g., an electrician) strips the insulation from the end of each wire. Figure 16-17 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the switch 10 is a three-pole switch having six wire termination assemblies 200, allowing six wires to be connected to the switch 10. The six wires include line-side phase 1, phase 2, and phase 3 wires, and load-side phase 1, phase 2, and phase 3 wires. Furthermore, the auxiliary switch 60 is a single-pole switch having line- and load-side control wires.

[0042] The plunger 250 of each wire termination assembly 200 for switch 10 extends through the activation member opening 34 in the wire attachment portion 16 or the wire attachment portion 18 of the switch housing 12, and the plunger 250 of each wire termination assembly 200 for switch 60 extends through the activation member opening 69 in the wire attachment portion 64 or the wire attachment portion 66 of the auxiliary switch housing 62. The portion of the plunger 250 extending from the housing 12 and the housing 62 is then moved (e.g., pulled) in the direction of arrow "B", as shown. Figure 12 As shown. Moving each plunger 250 in the direction of arrow "B" causes the cam surface 252a of the recess 252 in the plunger 250 to travel along the spring member 224, applying a mechanical load on the spring member 224. Applying a mechanical load on the spring member 224 causes the spring member 224 to Figure 12 2. The wire terminal 210 is deflected from the closed position to the open position in the direction of arrow "C" shown in FIG. 2. When the wire terminal 210 is in the open position, the electrical wire 700 is then inserted into the appropriate wire receiving opening 32 in the wire attachment portion 16 or the wire attachment portion 18 of the switch housing 12 and the wire receiving opening 68 in the wire attachment portion 64 or the wire attachment portion 66 of the auxiliary switch housing 62. The wire receiving opening 32 and the wire receiving opening 68 also guide the exposed ends of the wires 700 into the portion of the elongated opening 128 of the clamping member 214 between the clamp support 212 and the wire compression member 230. When the exposed end of each wire 700 is positioned between the clamp support 212 and the wire compression member 230, the corresponding plunger 250 is then moved, e.g., pushed, in the direction of arrow "E". Moving the plunger 250 in the direction of arrow "E" removes the mechanical load applied by the plunger 250 to the spring member 224, causing the energy stored by the spring member 224 to move the spring member 224 to the closed position with sufficient force to secure or clamp the wire 700 between the clamp holder 212 and the wire compression member 230, completing the electrical conductive path between the wire 700 and the wire termination assembly 200. It should be noted that when the plunger 250 is moved in the direction of arrow "B" to the first position, the distance that the plunger 250 extends out of the wire attachment portion 16 or the wire attachment portion 18 of the housing 12 is greater than the distance when the plunger 250 is moved in the direction of arrow "E" to the second position, as shown. Figure 5 As shown. The second direction can be a direction opposite to the first direction. In addition, it should be noted that when the plunger is moved to the first position or the second position, the plunger 250 can remain in the first position or the second position until the plunger is manually moved to another position.

[0043] Since the wire 700 is connected to the switch 50, the motor driver 330, and the motor 300, when the control knob 318 rotatably attached to the switch cover 316 is rotated from the "off" position to the "on" position, the drive rod 320 attached to the control knob 318 rotates the on / off control assembly 24, causing the contact pads 102 of the switch contacts 100 of the switch 50 to engage with the electrical contact pads 220 on the clamp bracket 212 of the wire termination assembly 200, completing the conductive path from the wire 700 to the motor 300 and providing power to the motor. The motor driver 330 can then be programmed to turn the motor 300 "on" and "off."

[0044] for Figure 14-17 In order to remove wires from the wire termination assemblies 200, the plunger 250 of each wire termination assembly 200 extending through the activation member opening 34 in the wire attachment portion 16 or the wire attachment portion 18 of the switch housing 12 and / or the activation member opening 69 of the switch housing 62 is moved in the direction of arrow "B", as shown in FIG. Figure 12 As shown. Moving the plunger 250 in the direction of arrow "B" causes the cam surface 252a of the recess 252 in the plunger 250 to travel along the spring member 224, exerting a mechanical load on the spring member 224, causing the spring member to deflect from the closed position to the open position, as described above. With the wire termination 210 in the open position, the electrical wire 700 can be removed from the switch 10 and / or the switch 60.

[0045] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the activation member 250 is described herein as moving in the directions of arrows "B" and "E." Figure 12 and Figure 13 The movement of the activation member 250 shown is a linear movement. Although the activation member 250 is shown as moving linearly, the present disclosure contemplates other movements of the activation member 250. As non-limiting examples, the movement of the activation member 250 can be a rotational or torque movement, or the movement of the activation member 250 can be a pivotal movement, or the movement of the activation member 250 can be a torsional movement. Examples of rotational movement of the activation member are shown and described in commonly owned U.S. Patent No. 11,495,895, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The activation member 250 can also move relative to the wire termination 210, or relative to a component of the wire termination 210, or relative to the housing 12. For example, the activation member 250 can move relative to the clamping member 214 or the clamp bracket 212.

[0046] While various embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A multi-pole electrical wiring device comprising: a housing having an interior, at least one wire-receiving opening, and at least one activation member opening, wherein at least a portion of the interior is hollow; at least one wire termination assembly positioned within the interior hollow portion of the housing such that the at least one wire termination assembly is accessible from the at least one wire receiving opening; At least one activating member extends at least partially through the at least one activating member opening, the activating member interacting with the at least one wire termination assembly such that movement of the activating member in a first direction to a first position causes the at least one wire termination assembly to automatically move to a closed position, thereby clamping a wire inserted into the wire-receiving opening and positioned within the at least one wire termination assembly, and such that movement of the activating member in a second direction to a second position causes the at least one wire termination assembly to move to an open position, thereby releasing the wire within the at least one wire termination assembly.

2. The electrical wiring device according to claim 1, wherein The at least one wire termination assembly includes a wire compression member for use in clamping a wire positioned within the at least one wire termination assembly.

3. The electrical wiring device according to claim 1, wherein The at least one wire termination assembly includes a biasing member.

4. The electrical wiring device according to claim 3, wherein: The biasing member includes a spring.

5. The electrical wiring device according to claim 1, wherein The at least one activation member remains in the first position or the second position until manually moved.

6. The electrical wiring device according to claim 1, wherein Movement of the activation member in the second direction is opposite to movement of the activation member in the first direction.

7. The electrical wiring device according to claim 1, wherein The movement of the activation member in the first direction and the second direction is a linear movement.

8. The electrical wiring device according to claim 1, wherein The movement of the activation member in the first direction and the second direction is one of a linear movement, a rotational movement, a torque movement, a pivotal movement, and a torsional movement.

9. The electrical wiring device according to claim 1, wherein: Movement of the activation member in the first direction is outward relative to the housing, and wherein movement of the activation member in the second direction is inward relative to the housing.

10. The electrical wiring device according to claim 1, wherein When in the closed position, the at least one wire termination assembly can clamp the wire with a force substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the wire.

11. A multi-pole electrical wiring device comprising: a housing having an interior, a plurality of wire-receiving openings, and a plurality of activation member openings, wherein at least a portion of the interior is hollow, wherein each of the plurality of wire-receiving openings provides access from an exterior of the housing to the hollow portion of the interior of the housing, and wherein each of the plurality of activation member openings provides access from an exterior of the housing to the hollow portion of the interior of the housing; and a plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies positioned within the interior hollow portion of the housing such that one of the plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies is accessible from one of the plurality of wire-receiving openings and one of the plurality of activation member openings; Wherein, each of the plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies comprises: a wire termination comprising a clamp holder connected to a clamping member, the clamping member being movable between a closed position in which a wire can be clamped between the clamping member and the clamp holder, and an open position in which a wire can be inserted through one of a plurality of wire receiving openings in the housing and between the clamping member and the clamp holder; and an activation member extending at least partially through one of a plurality of activation member openings in the housing, the activation member interacting with the clamping member such that movement of the activation member in a first direction causes the activation member to apply a mechanical load to the clamping member, thereby causing the clamping member to move from the closed position to the open position, and movement of the activation member in a second direction removes the mechanical load from the clamping member, causing the clamping member to move from the open position to the closed position; and a plurality of load-side wire termination assemblies positioned within the interior hollow portion of the housing such that one of the plurality of load-side wire termination assemblies is accessible from one of the plurality of wire-receiving openings and one of the plurality of activation member openings; Wherein, each of the plurality of contact components comprises: a wire termination comprising a clamp holder connected to a clamping member, the clamping member being movable between a closed position in which a wire can be clamped between the clamping member and the clamp holder, and an open position in which a wire can be inserted through one of a plurality of wire receiving openings in the housing and between the clamping member and the clamp holder; and an activation member extending at least partially through one of a plurality of activation member openings in the housing, the activation member interacting with the clamping member such that movement of the activation member in a first direction causes the activation member to apply a mechanical load to the clamping member, thereby causing the clamping member to move from the closed position to the open position, and movement of the activation member in a second direction removes the mechanical load from the clamping member, causing the clamping member to move from the open position to the closed position.

12. The electrical wiring device according to claim 11, wherein The clamping members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly include wire compression members such that wires can be clamped between the wire compression members and a clamp support.

13. The electrical wiring device according to claim 11, wherein The clamping members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly include a biasing member.

14. The electrical wiring device according to claim 11, wherein Activation members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly remain in a first position or a second position until manually moved.

15. The electrical wiring device according to claim 11, wherein Movement of the activation members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in the second direction is opposite to movement of the activation members in the first direction.

16. The electrical wiring device according to claim 11, wherein Movement of activation members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in the first and second directions is parallel to the clamp bracket.

17. The electrical wiring device according to claim 11, wherein The movement of the activation member in the first direction and the second direction is a linear movement.

18. The electrical wiring device according to claim 11, wherein The movement of the activation member for the line side wire termination assembly and the load side wire termination assembly in the first direction and the second direction is one of a linear movement, a rotational movement, a torque movement, a pivotal movement, and a torsional movement.

19. The electrical wiring device according to claim 11, wherein Movement of activation members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in the first direction and the second direction is relative to the clamping member.

20. The electrical wiring device according to claim 11, wherein Movement of the activation members for the line side wire termination assembly and the load side wire termination assembly in a first direction is outward relative to the housing, and wherein movement of the activation members for the line side wire termination assembly and the load side wire termination assembly in a second direction is inward relative to the housing.

21. The electrical wiring device according to claim 11, wherein When in the closed position, the clamping members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly can clamp a wire with a force substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the wire.

22. A multi-pole electrical wiring device comprising: a housing having an interior, a plurality of wire-receiving openings, and a plurality of activation member openings, wherein at least a portion of the interior is hollow, wherein each of the plurality of wire-receiving openings provides access from an exterior of the housing to the hollow portion of the interior of the housing, and wherein each of the plurality of activation member openings provides access from an exterior of the housing to the hollow portion of the interior of the housing; and a plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies positioned within the interior hollow portion of the housing such that one of the plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies is accessible from one of the plurality of wire-receiving openings and one of the plurality of activation member openings; Wherein, each of the plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies comprises: a wire termination comprising a clamp holder connected to a clamping member, the clamping member being movable between a closed position in which a wire can be clamped between the clamping member and the clamp holder, and an open position in which a wire can be inserted through one of the plurality of wire-receiving openings in the housing and between the clamping member and the clamp holder; and an activation member extending at least partially through one of a plurality of activation member openings in the housing, the activation member interacting with the clamping member such that movement of the activation member in a first direction causes the activation member to move the clamping member from a closed position to an open position, and movement of the activation member in a second direction allows the clamping member to automatically move from the open position to the closed position; and Wherein, each of the plurality of load-side wire termination assemblies comprises: a wire termination comprising a clamp holder connected to a clamping member, the clamping member being movable between a closed position in which a wire can be clamped between the clamping member and the clamp holder, and an open position in which a wire can be inserted through one of the plurality of wire-receiving openings in the housing and between the clamping member and the clamp holder; and an activation member extending at least partially through one of a plurality of activation member openings in the housing, the activation member interacting with the clamping member such that movement of the activation member in a first direction causes the activation member to move the clamping member from a closed position to an open position, and movement of the activation member in a second direction allows the clamping member to automatically move from the open position to the closed position.

23. The electrical wiring device according to claim 22, wherein The clamping members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly include wire compression members such that wires can be clamped between the wire compression members and the clamp support.

24. The electrical wiring device of claim 22, wherein: The clamping members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly include a biasing member.

25. The electrical wiring device of claim 22, wherein: Activation members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly remain in a first position or a second position until manually moved.

26. The electrical wiring device of claim 22, wherein: Movement of the activation members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in the second direction is opposite to movement of the activation members in the first direction.

27. The electrical wiring device of claim 22, wherein: Movement of activation members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in the first and second directions is parallel to the clamp bracket.

28. The electrical wiring device of claim 22, wherein: Movement of the activation member for the line side wire termination assembly and the load side wire termination assembly in the first direction and the second direction is a linear motion.

29. The electrical wiring device of claim 22, wherein: Movement of the activation member for the line side wire termination assembly and the load side wire termination assembly in the first direction and the second direction is one of linear motion, rotational motion, torque motion, pivotal motion, and torsional motion.

30. The electrical wiring device of claim 22, wherein: Movement of activation members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in a first direction and a second direction relative to the clamping member.

31. The electrical wiring device of claim 22, wherein: Movement of the activation members for the line side wire termination assembly and the load side wire termination assembly in a first direction is outward relative to the housing, and wherein movement of the activation members in a second direction is inward relative to the housing.

32. The electrical wiring device of claim 22, wherein: When in the closed position, the clamping members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly can clamp a wire with a force substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the wire.

33. A multi-pole electrical wiring device comprising: a housing having a plurality of wire-receiving openings and a plurality of activation member openings, wherein each of the plurality of wire-receiving openings provides access from an exterior of the housing to an interior of the housing, and wherein each of the plurality of activation member openings provides access from an exterior of the housing to an interior of the housing; and a plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies positioned within the interior of the housing such that one of the plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies is accessible from one of the plurality of wire-receiving openings and one of the plurality of activation member openings; Wherein, each of the plurality of line-side wire termination assemblies comprises: a wire termination comprising a clamp holder connected to a clamping member, the clamping member being movable between a closed position in which a wire can be clamped between the clamping member and the clamp holder, and an open position in which a wire can be inserted between the clamping member and the clamp holder; and an activation member extending at least partially through one of a plurality of activation member openings in the housing, the activation member interacting with the clamping member such that movement of the activation member in a first direction from a first position to a second position causes the activation member to move the clamping member from a closed position to an open position, and movement of the activation member in the second direction allows the clamping member to automatically move from the open position to the closed position, wherein the activation member remains in the first position or the second position until manually moved; and Wherein, each of the plurality of load-side wire termination assemblies comprises: a wire termination comprising a clamp holder connected to a clamping member, the clamping member being movable between a closed position in which a wire can be clamped between the clamping member and the clamp holder, and an open position in which a wire can be inserted between the clamping member and the clamp holder; and an activation member extending at least partially through one of a plurality of activation member openings in the housing, the activation member interacting with the clamping member such that movement of the activation member in a first direction from a first position to a second position causes the activation member to move the clamping member from a closed position to an open position, and movement of the activation member in the second direction allows the clamping member to automatically move from the open position to the closed position, wherein the activation member remains in the first position or the second position until manually moved.

34. The electrical wiring device of claim 33, wherein: The clamping members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly include wire compression members such that wires can be clamped between the wire compression members and the clamp support.

35. The electrical wiring device of claim 33, wherein: The clamping members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly include a biasing member.

36. The electrical wiring device of claim 33, wherein: Movement of the activation members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in the second direction is opposite to movement of the activation members in the first direction.

37. The electrical wiring device of claim 33, wherein: Movement of activation members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in the first and second directions is parallel to the clamp bracket.

38. The electrical wiring device of claim 33, wherein: Movement of the activation member for the line side wire termination assembly and the load side wire termination assembly in the first direction and the second direction is a linear motion.

39. The electrical wiring device of claim 33, wherein: Movement of the activation member for the line side wire termination assembly and the load side wire termination assembly in the first direction and the second direction is one of linear motion, rotational motion, torque motion, pivotal motion, and torsional motion.

40. The electrical wiring device of claim 33, wherein: When in the closed position, the clamping members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly can clamp a wire with a force substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the wire.

41. The electrical wiring device of claim 33, wherein: Movement of activation members for the line-side wire termination assembly and the load-side wire termination assembly in a first direction and a second direction relative to the clamping member.

42. The electrical wiring device of claim 33, wherein: Movement of the activation members for the line side wire termination assembly and the load side wire termination assembly in a first direction is outward relative to the housing, and wherein movement of the activation members in a second direction is inward relative to the housing.

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