Switching device

Abstract

The invention relates to a switching device (100) having at least two fixed contacts (2, 3) and a movable contact (4) in a switching chamber (11) and having at least two auxiliary contacts (25), two spring contacts (30) and a contact plate (31) in the switching chamber, wherein each of the spring contacts is in contact with one of the auxiliary contacts with a first contact region (301) and has a second contact region (302), and the contact plate is movable with the movable contact and, in a first switching state of the switching device, is in contact with one of the auxiliary contacts with a second contact region (302). The contact plate is in contact with a second contact area of the spring contact part; in a second switching state, the contact plate is arranged at a distance from a second contact region of the spring contact.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] A switching device is given. Background Technology

[0002] This switching device is particularly configured as a remote-controlled switch with electromagnetic action that can operate through conductive current. The switching device can be activated by a control circuit and can switch a load circuit. The switching device can particularly be configured as a relay or contactor, especially as a power contactor. The switching device is particularly preferably configured as a pneumatic power contactor.

[0003] One possible application of such switching devices (especially power contactors) is to open (or close, i.e., Öffnen) and disconnect battery circuits, for example in motor vehicles (such as fully electric or partially electric vehicles), or in applications in the field of renewable energy.

[0004] In their function as safety components, contactors are often subject to additional monitoring, which is specified under the IEC 60947-5-1 standard. For example, contactor monitoring should be designed to detect the most common faults in contactors, relays, and switches: adhesion or welding of the main contacts. This fault (also known as contactor adhesion) can be caused, for example, by an electric arc that forms between the contacts during a load-bearing switching process, and can generate such high temperatures at the contact surfaces that the contact surfaces weld together. Furthermore, it is advantageous to be able to identify other fault conditions, such as mechanical jamming of the contacts in the open position or intermediate state.

[0005] A typical contactor configuration is a so-called overtravel system. This means that after the main contacts are interconnected and electrically closed via a switch bridge, the movement of the closing system continues, with the pressure, usually spring-loaded, applied to the main contacts by the switch bridge increasing. In the event of contactor sticking, although the overtravel is eliminated again, the switch bridge remains adhered to at least one main contact. Therefore, the mechanical system is suspended in an intermediate state, neither truly open nor truly closed.

[0006] Monitoring or contactor sticking detection can be achieved, for example, by measuring the voltage across the main contacts of the contactor. If a voltage is applied between the main contacts, the contactor is open; if no voltage is applied, the contactor is short-circuited and therefore closed. While this method is safe, it is also expensive in application because it requires the installation and appropriate insulation of wires to withstand high voltage potentials. Monitoring is typically performed by a higher-level system, such as an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) controlled by a microcontroller.

[0007] For example, it is known to use microswitches in the switch chamber of contactors, which are operated by a small extension arm at the switch bridge. The extension arm actuates the switch shortly before the switch bridge is pressed against the main contacts. Here, the switch can be configured as a closure (closing under pressure) or an opener (opening under pressure). Thus, the signal of the microswitch can be designed to be inversely phase to the contactor's switching state. A disadvantage of this solution is that the microswitch must be placed near the main contacts within the switch chamber. This can sometimes affect arc extinguishing or introduce insulation defects. Furthermore, the monitoring contacts formed by the extension arm and the microswitch must be designed to be advanced. This means that the monitoring contacts change their state before the main contacts close. This means that the microswitch must still display a "closed" state when the overtravel has been exhausted due to sticking. Therefore, intermediate states or jamming cannot be identified. Another disadvantage is the typical lifespan of microswitches, which, depending on the implementation, may only be a few hundred thousand switching cycles. Additionally, feeders must be laid for the switch, which limits the use of a completely sealed ceramic discharge space.

[0008] Furthermore, an auxiliary switch is known, for example, from publication WO 2008 / 033349 A2, which is operated by an extension arm at the switch bridge, whereby two overlapping contacts can be pressed against each other. While this solution is simple, inexpensive, and virtually wear-free, it has the following drawbacks: the overlapping contacts are positioned between the main contacts, potentially causing insulation problems. Additionally, a feeder must be laid for the auxiliary switch, which limits or makes impossible the use of a fully sealed ceramic discharge space. The switching behavior remains the same as that of a microswitch.

[0009] To circumvent the described drawbacks, it is also known that a magnet is placed at the lower part of the movable system, and especially outside the switch chamber, which can open and close the reed switch, as described, for example, in printed material JP2013-008621A. Thus, detection is performed away from the main contact, and detection can also be performed through non-magnetic materials. Furthermore, this solution can be easily combined with a tightly sealed ceramic discharge space. The switching behavior is similar to the two systems described above, but there is difficulty in correctly setting the overlapping area because the indication is performed magnetically, and hysteresis effects must also be considered. Another drawback is the sensitivity of the reed switch to magnetic interference fields and mechanical shocks.

[0010] One known improvement is to replace the reed switch with a Hall effect sensor, thus enabling magnetic detection via a semiconductor element instead of a mechanical switch. This eliminates the influence of the magnetic interference field and removes vibration dependence. However, the switching behavior remains similar to that of a reed switch.

[0011] All four monitoring switch solutions possess the so-called "normally open" characteristic, meaning the monitoring switch essentially reflects the state of the main contacts. However, signal inversion does not produce "normally closed," but only "not normally open." The commonality among all four principles lies primarily in the fact that none of the solutions can reliably indicate with a signal that the monitored contactor is safely and fully open. However, the IEC 60947-5-1 standard specifies a requirement that the monitoring contactor closes or indicates a closed monitoring contact only when the contactor is in its resting position ("normally closed").

[0012] Furthermore, most known solutions either cannot or can only convert from "normally open" characteristics to "normally closed" characteristics at a significant cost in terms of structural technology, and vice versa. Summary of the Invention

[0013] At least one task of a particular implementation is to provide a switching device.

[0014] This task is solved by the subject matter according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and improvements of this subject matter are shown in the dependent claims and further derived from the following description and drawings.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment, the switching device has at least one fixed contact and at least one movable contact. The at least one fixed contact and the at least one movable contact are configured and arranged for connecting and disconnecting a load circuit that can be connected to the switching device. The switching device particularly preferably has at least two fixed contacts, which, together with the movable contact, are configured and arranged for connecting and disconnecting a load circuit that can be connected to the switching device, and especially to the at least two fixed contacts. Hereinafter, the switching device is generally described as having at least one fixed contact or two fixed contacts. However, in the following embodiments and for the purposes of the features described below, the number of fixed contacts may differ from the number specifically mentioned.

[0016] The movable contact in the switching device can move between the non-conducting and conducting states of the switching device such that, in the non-conducting state, the movable contact is spaced apart from the fixed contacts and thus the current is interrupted; and in the conducting state, the movable contact has mechanical contact with at least two fixed contacts and is thus electrically connected to the at least two fixed contacts. Therefore, the fixed contacts are arranged separately in the switching device, and depending on the state of the movable contacts, they can be electrically connected to or electrically disconnected from each other. In the conducting state, the movable contact thus contacts at least one contact surface of at least one fixed contact with at least one contact surface of at least one fixed contact. In the non-conducting and thus disconnected state, the distance between the movable contact (especially the contact surface of the movable contact) and at least one fixed contact (especially the contact surface of the at least one fixed contact) is referred to here and hereinafter as the switching gap and provides a maximum movement clearance space, and thus provides the maximum achievable distance between the contacts and, in particular, their contact surfaces relative to each other. In the case of, for example, two fixed contacts, the above description applies accordingly.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the switching device has a switching chamber, in which movable contacts and fixed contacts are arranged. The movable contacts may be entirely disposed within the switching chamber. The fixed contacts being disposed within the switching chamber can specifically mean that at least one contact area of ​​the fixed contacts (which, in the conducting state, is in mechanical contact with the movable contacts) is disposed within the switching chamber. For connecting the feeder of the circuit switched by the switching device, the fixed contacts disposed within the switching chamber can make electrical contact from the outside (i.e., from outside the switching chamber). For this purpose, the fixed contacts disposed within the switching chamber can extend partially out of the switching chamber, providing a feasible connection scheme for the feeder outside the switching chamber. Therefore, the switching chamber preferably has openings through which the fixed contacts extend into the switching chamber. For example, the fixed contacts are brazed into the openings of the switching chamber, extending both into and out of the internal space of the switching chamber.

[0018] According to another embodiment, the switching device has at least two auxiliary contacts arranged in a switch chamber. The arrangement of the auxiliary contacts in the switch chamber specifically means that at least one contact area of ​​the auxiliary contacts is located within the switch chamber. For connecting a feeder, the auxiliary contacts arranged in the switch chamber can make electrical contact from the outside (i.e., from outside the switch chamber). For this purpose, the auxiliary contacts arranged in the switch chamber can extend partially out of the switch chamber and have a feasible connection scheme for the feeder outside the switch chamber. Therefore, the switch chamber preferably has openings through which the auxiliary contacts extend into the switch chamber. For example, the auxiliary contacts are brazed into the openings of the switch chamber and extend both into and out of the switch chamber's internal space. The through-guiding of the auxiliary contacts into the switch chamber can thus be performed in contrast to the through-guiding of fixed contacts in the case of a tightly sealed and, for example, brazed connection, preferably in a common manufacturing step and therefore in a common process.

[0019] According to another embodiment, the switching device has at least two spring contacts arranged in a switch chamber. Furthermore, the switching device has a contact plate arranged in the switch chamber. The spring contacts and the contact plate are particularly fully arranged in the switch chamber. Each of the spring contacts has at least one first contact area and a second contact area. Each of the spring contacts is capable of contacting one of the auxiliary contacts with its first contact area. Especially during normal operation, each of the spring contacts is capable of permanently and independently of the switching state of the switching device with its first contact area against one of the auxiliary contacts. The first contact area of ​​the spring contact can, in particular, directly and therefore mechanically abut against the auxiliary contact.

[0020] According to another embodiment, the contact plate can move together with the movable contact portion. The contact plate and the movable contact portion are particularly preferably able to move together by the same mechanical actuator described below. For example, in a first switching state of the switching device, the contact plate is in contact with the second contact area of ​​the spring contact portion; and in a second switching state, the contact plate and the second contact area of ​​the spring contact portion are spaced apart. Therefore, in the first switching state, the auxiliary contacts are short-circuited through the spring contact portion and the contact plate; while in the second switching state, the auxiliary contacts are electrically disconnected from each other. For example, by detecting the resistance between the auxiliary contacts, it can be determined whether the switching device is in the first switching state or the second switching state.

[0021] For example, the first switching state can be the aforementioned non-conducting state of the switching device, which corresponds to the stationary state of the switching device, while the second switching state can be the aforementioned conducting switching state. In other words, when the movable contact is spaced apart from at least one fixed contact, the contact plate can contact the second contact area of ​​the spring contact; and when the movable contact of the switching device is in contact with the at least one fixed contact, the contact plate is spaced apart from the second contact area of ​​the spring contact. In this case, the auxiliary contact, the spring contact, and the contact plate have a "normally closed" characteristic, which is the opposite of the switching state of the switching device.

[0022] Alternatively, it is also possible that the first switch state is a conducting state, while the second switch state is a non-conducting state. In this case, the switching device state detection mechanism achievable through the auxiliary contact is constructed in reverse to the "normally open" characteristic. Thus, when the movable contact is in contact with at least one fixed contact, the second contact area of ​​the contact plate and the spring contact is in contact; and when the movable contact of the switching device is spaced apart from at least one fixed contact, the second contact area of ​​the contact plate and the spring contact is spaced apart.

[0023] According to another embodiment, the switching device has a housing in which movable contacts, fixed contacts, auxiliary contacts, spring contacts, and contact plates are arranged. The fixed contacts are arranged in the housing, specifically meaning that at least one contact area of ​​the fixed contacts (which is in mechanical contact with the movable contacts in the conductive state) is located within the housing. To connect the feeder of the circuit that receives the switching of the switching device, the fixed contacts arranged in the housing can be electrically contacted from the outside (i.e., from outside the housing). For this purpose, the fixed contacts arranged in the housing can extend partially out of the housing and have a feasible connection scheme for the feeder outside the housing. In particular, this can be applied to each fixed switch contact. The movable contacts can be arranged entirely within the housing. Furthermore, the auxiliary contacts are also preferably arranged entirely within the housing. The auxiliary contacts can be contacted from the outside via a feeder within the housing (which is electrically connected, for example, to an external electrical connection at the housing). Alternatively, an electrical component, such as a microcontroller, can be present in the housing, connected to the auxiliary contacts via an electrical feeder. The microcontroller can also be accessed from the outside through a suitable connection at the housing.

[0024] According to another embodiment, the contacts are arranged in a gaseous atmosphere within the housing. This specifically means that the movable contacts, spring contacts, and contact plates are completely arranged in the gaseous atmosphere within the housing, and furthermore, at least a portion of the fixed contacts (e.g., the contact area of ​​the fixed contacts) and at least a portion of the auxiliary contacts (e.g., the contact area of ​​the auxiliary contacts) are arranged in the gaseous atmosphere within the housing. Accordingly, the switching device is particularly preferably a gas-filled switching device, such as a gas-filled contactor. This gaseous atmosphere particularly facilitates the extinguishing of arcs that may occur during the switching process. The gas in the gaseous atmosphere may, for example, contain or be a hydrogen-containing gas and / or a nitrogen-containing gas, especially a hydrogen-containing gas and / or a nitrogen-containing gas under high pressure. The gas preferably has a content of at least 50% H2. In addition to hydrogen, the gas may also contain an inert gas, particularly preferably N2 and / or one or more inert gases.

[0025] According to another embodiment, the switch chamber is located within the housing. Furthermore, gas (i.e., at least a portion of the gaseous atmosphere) may be located within the switch chamber.

[0026] According to another embodiment, the movable contact and the contact plate can be moved by means of a mechanical actuator. This mechanical actuator particularly has a magnetic armature. The magnetic armature may have a shaft at one end connected to the movable contact and the contact plate such that the movable contact and the contact plate can move via the shaft, i.e., move along the shaft when the shaft moves. This shaft may extend into the switch chamber, particularly through an opening in the switch chamber. The switch chamber may particularly have a bottom with an opening through which the shaft extends. The magnetic armature can be moved via a magnetic circuit to induce the switching process described above. For this purpose, the magnetic circuit may have a yoke with an opening through which the shaft of the magnetic armature extends. When the magnetic circuit is closed, the magnetic armature, particularly the magnetic core of the magnetic armature, can be attracted to the yoke.

[0027] According to another embodiment, the movable contact and contact plate are arranged at an electrically insulating contact holder. This contact holder is particularly preferably arranged and fixed to the shaft of the magnet armature, and electrically insulates the movable contact and contact plate from the shaft. Thus, the movable contact and contact plate can be electrically insulated from the components of the mechanical actuator (i.e., especially the components of the magnet armature). For this purpose, the contact holder can have or be made of an electrically insulating material. This electrically insulating material can be selected from polymers and ceramic materials, such as polyoxymethylene (POM, especially those with (CH2O)). n Structure), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), glass fiber filled PBT, and electrically insulating metal oxides (such as aluminum oxide Al2O3).

[0028] According to another embodiment, the contact plate is fixed to the contact retainer. This fixing can be achieved, for example, by clamping. Particularly preferably, the contact plate is partially overmolded with the material of the contact retainer. For this purpose, the contact plate can be overmolded or injection-molded with the material of the contact retainer. For contact of the second contact area of ​​the spring contact, the contact area of ​​the contact plate can extend from the contact retainer.

[0029] During the switching process, the magnet armature, shaft, movable contact, and contact plate preferably move linearly along the shaft in the form of lifting or lowering motion. Preferably, the shaft and, for example, the magnetic core of the magnet armature have a vertical space for lifting motion, which is larger than the switching gap further described above. This can be achieved, for example, by the gap between the magnetic core and the yoke (which may also be called the movement gap) being larger than the switching gap in the off state. Therefore, the magnet armature with the movable contact can be an overtravel system, wherein the movable contact is movably arranged at the contact holder. Furthermore, a contact spring can be arranged at the contact holder, which applies a spring force to the movable contact in the direction of the fixed contact. When the movable contact stops at the fixed contact and thus when the switching gap is fully closed, the contact spring can undergo elastic compression, and the magnet armature can continue to move until, for example, the magnetic core abuts against the yoke. For example, the movement gap can be less than or equal to 1 mm larger than the switching gap, and particularly preferably about 0.5 mm larger. The difference between the movement gap and the switching gap can be called overtravel. By causing the contact spring to elastically compress due to overtravel, the pressure of the movable contact at the fixed contact can be increased, and a certain degree of insensitivity to vibration and mechanical shock can be achieved.

[0030] The described construction of the mechanical actuator and switch chamber allows for the auxiliary contacts, spring contacts, and contact plates to be arranged electrically insulated from the fixed contacts, movable contacts, and mechanical actuator. In particular, it enables durable insulation, ensuring continuous insulation during normal operation of the switching device and therefore during the first and second switching states, as well as during transitions between them.

[0031] At least one contact area among the contact regions of each spring contact portion can be configured to be spring-elastic. For example, the first contact area of ​​each spring contact portion can be configured to be spring-elastic and apply spring force to the auxiliary contact portion. In other words, in the installed state, the first contact area can press against the auxiliary contact portion and thereby apply spring force. Alternatively or preferably additionally, the second contact area can also be configured to be spring-elastic. Particularly preferably, in the first switching state, the second contact area applies spring force to the contact plate. Here, the spring force of the second contact area can be less than the spring force of the contact spring. Through the spring-elastic action of the second contact area, insensitivity to vibration and mechanical shock can be achieved in the mechanical contact between the contact plate and the second contact area of ​​the spring contact portion. For example, the spring force applied by the second contact area to the contact plate and the counterforce applied thereby to the magnet armature and, in particular, the contact retainer can be less than the reset spring force, which the reset spring of the mechanical actuator has, and by which the magnet armature can be moved from the on switch state to the off switch state. Particularly preferably, the spring force applied to the contact plate by the second contact area can be less than or equal to 20% of the return spring force.

[0032] When the switching device transitions from a first switching state to a second switching state, the contact plate loses mechanical contact with the second contact area of ​​the spring contact after traveling a certain distance, which is less than or equal to 20% of the switching gap, and preferably less than or equal to 10% of the switching gap. Therefore, the travel distance of the magnet armature before the contact between the contact plate and the spring contact is interrupted is very small. As described above, in the first switching state, the movable contact can, for example, separate from the fixed contact through the switching gap, while the contact plate can mechanically contact the second contact area of ​​the spring contact. Therefore, the first switching state can be the stationary state of the switching device, and thus a non-conductive state. With the short travel distance described above, it is possible to reliably detect the absence of a stationary state at the auxiliary contact. Furthermore, as described above, in the first switching state, the movable contact can be in mechanical contact with the at least one fixed contact. Therefore, the first switching state can be the conductive state of the switching device. When the switching device transitions from the first switching state to the second switching state, the contact plate loses mechanical contact with the second contact area of ​​the spring contact after traveling a certain distance, which is greater than the overtravel distance. This ensures that even if the movable contact continues to be in mechanical contact with at least one fixed contact due to accidental welding (even if the movable contact and therefore the switching device should have been moved to a stationary state), the contact plate remains in mechanical contact with the spring contact. In this case, since the welding will only eliminate the overtravel, and the movable contact will remain in the conducting state, this can be detected at the auxiliary contacts that are still short-circuited through the contact plate.

[0033] The direction of movement of the movable contact (corresponding to the main extension direction of the shaft), i.e., the direction of the lifting and lowering movements of the movable contact, may also be referred to here and hereinafter as the vertical direction. Fixed contacts are arranged side-by-side along the longitudinal direction, which lies in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction. The movable contact may, for example, be constructed as a plate and have a main extension plane parallel to the horizontal plane. A transverse direction is defined perpendicular to the vertical and longitudinal directions, thus the horizontal plane is stretched by the longitudinal and transverse directions. Auxiliary contacts are preferably arranged along the transverse direction, wherein the movable contacts may be arranged particularly along the transverse direction between the auxiliary contacts.

[0034] According to another embodiment, the switch chamber has a switch chamber wall. In a horizontal sectional view (i.e., a sectional view with a cutting plane perpendicular to the vertical direction), the switch chamber wall preferably has a rectangular cross-sectional shape, or at least an approximately rectangular cross-sectional shape. The switch chamber wall may in particular have opposing longitudinal sidewall portions and opposing transverse sidewall portions, which, in a horizontal sectional view, form a rectangular shape in their outer and / or inner contours. In other words, the longitudinal sidewall portions may extend substantially in both the vertical and longitudinal directions, while the transverse sidewall portions may extend substantially in both the vertical and transverse directions. Here, the longitudinal sidewall portions, the transverse sidewall portions, and the cover portions with openings for fixed contacts and openings for auxiliary contacts are preferably integrally constructed and form the switch chamber wall.

[0035] According to another embodiment, the switch chamber has a switch chamber bottom, which forms the switch chamber together with the switch chamber wall. The switch chamber bottom may have a base plate and side wall portions, wherein the side wall portions of the switch chamber bottom may be integrally constructed with the base plate of the switch chamber bottom. In the assembled switch chamber, the side wall portions of the switch chamber bottom may be surrounded by the side wall portions of the switch chamber wall, such that the side wall portions of the switch chamber bottom may form a push-in portion in the switch chamber wall. At least a portion of the side wall portions of the switch chamber bottom may be spaced apart from the side wall portions of the switch chamber wall.

[0036] According to another embodiment, each spring contact has a connecting region between a first contact area and a second contact area, the connecting region extending along a longitudinal sidewall portion of the switch chamber wall. The first and second contact areas of each spring contact preferably extend from the corresponding longitudinal sidewall portion into the interior space of the switch chamber at least in the transverse direction. In particular, the connecting region of each spring contact can be arranged in the transverse direction behind a sidewall portion of the bottom of the switch chamber, such that for each spring contact, a sidewall portion of the bottom of the switch chamber is arranged between the connecting region of the movable contact and the spring contact. Therefore, the connecting region of each spring contact is preferably arranged in the transverse direction between a sidewall portion of the switch chamber wall and a sidewall portion of the bottom of the switch chamber.

[0037] According to another embodiment, the bottom of the switch chamber has an opening in the sidewall portion for each spring contact, through which a second contact area of ​​the spring contact extends through the opening and through the sidewall portion of the bottom of the switch chamber. Specifically, for each spring contact, the second contact area extends laterally toward the movable contact and, in particular, toward the contact plate through the opening in the sidewall portion.

[0038] According to another embodiment, each spring contact has at least one opening in the connection area, through which a fixing element of the corresponding sidewall portion of the bottom of the switch chamber extends. The fixing element is particularly preferably integrally constructed with the corresponding sidewall portion and is used to fix the corresponding spring contact. For example, the fixing element can be constructed in the form of a pin, achieving a riveted fixation.

[0039] According to another embodiment, the bottom of the switch chamber has a push-in region in the lateral direction between each spring contact of the movable contact and the spring contact, where a permanent magnet, particularly a so-called arc-blowing magnet, is arranged. A portion of the push-in region is preferably formed by at least a portion of a sidewall portion of the bottom of the switch chamber. In particular, this sidewall portion can be a sidewall portion where the corresponding spring contact is fixed. Each of the permanent magnets is secured in the push-in region, particularly by a snap-fit ​​mechanism. Therefore, the bottom of the switch chamber is particularly preferably provided with two push-in regions, with the movable contact arranged in the lateral direction between these two push-in regions. When transitioning from a first switching state to a second switching state and vice versa, the movable contact is preferably movable in the vertical direction along the push-in region.

[0040] According to another embodiment, the switch chamber wall has at least two bridge plates, each of which is arranged longitudinally between the at least two fixed contacts, and each of the bridge plates extends laterally from at least one longitudinal sidewall portion into the switch chamber. Here, these bridge plates are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. In particular, two bridge plates can extend laterally across movable contacts within the interior space of the switch chamber from one longitudinal sidewall portion to the other. Here, each of the at least two bridge plates has a recess in which the movable contacts can move during the switching process. Furthermore, the bridge plates can be directly connected to the cover portion of the switch chamber wall. In particular, the bridge plates can extend along and directly adjacent to the cover portion of the switch chamber. These bridge plates are particularly preferably integrally constructed with the sidewall portion and / or cover portion of the switch chamber wall.

[0041] One or more spaces can be formed between the fixed contacts within the internal space of the switch chamber via the at least two bridge plates. These spaces are at least partially separated from and thus electrically insulated from the fixed contacts. Auxiliary contacts and spring contacts can be arranged, particularly, between the two bridge plates in the longitudinal direction within at least one such insulated space. Particularly preferably, the auxiliary contacts can be arranged symmetrically between the two bridge plates with respect to the movable contacts, i.e., symmetrically with respect to a plane of symmetry stretched by the longitudinal and vertical directions. Furthermore, spring contacts can be arranged symmetrically between the two bridge plates with respect to the movable contacts. Since at least one bridge plate is constructed between each auxiliary contact and the fixed contact, and between each spring contact and the fixed contact, the auxiliary and spring contacts are at least partially insulated from the fixed contacts. Furthermore, a push-in area for the bottom of the switch chamber and, therefore, a permanent magnet, can be arranged between the two bridge plates. Additionally, further auxiliary components, such as gas filling pipes for filling the aforementioned gas to form a gaseous atmosphere in the switch chamber, can be arranged within the thus formed insulated space.

[0042] According to another embodiment, the push-in region at the bottom of the switch chamber has wall portions arranged longitudinally between the bridge plates of the switch chamber wall, and permanent magnets are arranged between these wall portions. The wall portions of the push-in region are particularly pushable between the bridge plates, forming an intermediate space in which the permanent magnets are arranged. Furthermore, the contact area of ​​the contact plate can be arranged in this intermediate space and moves within it during switching from a first switching state to a second switching state and vice versa. The wall portions at the bottom of the switch chamber, together with the bridge plates, can form at least one insulating space as described above.

[0043] According to another embodiment, the auxiliary contact portion and / or spring contact portion and / or contact plate are made of a material containing copper or a copper alloy. Particularly preferred, this material may be selected from CuBe, CuSn4, or CuSn6. These materials can have good electrical conductivity and low weldability.

[0044] In addition, for example, the auxiliary contact portion may have the same material as the fixed contact portion. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Other advantages, advantageous implementations and improvements will become apparent from the embodiments described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the switching device is shown; Figures 2A to 2D A schematic diagram of a portion of a switching device according to one embodiment is shown; Figure 2E and Figure 2F A schematic diagram of the contact plate and spring contact portion of a switching device according to another embodiment is shown; Figures 2G to 2I A schematic diagram of the switch chamber wall of a switchgear according to another embodiment is shown; Figures 2J to 2M A schematic diagram showing the bottom of the switch chamber of a switch device according to another embodiment is shown; Figure 3A and Figure 3B A schematic diagram showing a portion of a switching device according to another embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0047] In the embodiments and figures, identical, similar, or functionally equivalent elements may be provided with the same reference numerals. The elements shown and their relative dimensions should not be considered to be proportional; rather, for better presentation and / or for better understanding, multiple individual elements, such as layers, components, structural elements, and regions, may be shown oversized.

[0048] exist Figure 1 An example of a switching device 100 is shown, which can be used, for example, to switch high current and / or high voltage, and the switching device can be a relay or a contactor, especially a power contactor. Figure 1 The diagram shows a three-dimensional sectional view with a vertical cutting plane. The geometry shown is merely exemplary and should not be construed as limiting; alternative constructions are also possible.

[0049] An exemplary switching device 100 has two fixed contacts 2, 3 and one movable contact 4 within a housing 1. The movable contact 4 is configured as a contact plate. The fixed contacts 2, 3 together with the movable contact 4 form the switching contacts. Alternative numbers of fixed contacts and / or movable contacts are possible, as shown. The housing 1 primarily serves as a protective barrier against impact for components disposed within it and is made of or made of plastic (e.g., PBT or fiberglass-filled PBT). The fixed contacts 2, 3 and / or the movable contact 4 may, for example, be made of copper, copper alloys, one or more high-melting-point metals (such as tungsten, nickel, and / or chromium), or mixtures of the aforementioned materials (e.g., a mixture of copper with at least one other metal, such as tungsten, nickel, and / or chromium), or are made of these metals.

[0050] exist Figure 1 The diagram shows a switching device 100 in a stationary state, in which the movable contact 4 is spaced apart from the fixed contacts 2, 3, 4, thereby disconnecting the current between the switch contacts 2, 3, 4. The embodiments of the switch contacts shown, and in particular their geometry, are merely exemplary and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the switch contacts can also be constructed in other ways.

[0051] The switching device 100 has a mechanical actuator with a movable magnetic armature 5, which essentially performs the switching motion. The magnetic armature 5 has a magnetic core 6 (e.g., made of or made of ferromagnetic material). Furthermore, the magnetic armature 5 has a shaft 7 that passes through the magnetic core 6 and is fixedly connected to the magnetic core 6 at one end. At the other end of the shaft opposite the magnetic core 6, the magnetic armature 5 has a movable contact 4, which is supported by a contact spring 40 and also connected to the shaft 7. The shaft 7 is preferably made of or made of stainless steel. For electrical insulation between the movable contact 4 and the shaft 7, an electrically insulating contact retainer 47 (which may also be called a bridging insulator) can be arranged between the movable contact 4 and the shaft.

[0052] The magnetic core 6 is surrounded by the coil 8. Current flowing through the coil 8 from the outside, controlled by a control circuit, generates axial movement of the magnetic core 6 and thus the entire magnetic armature 5 until the movable contact 4 contacts the fixed contacts 2, 3. In the view shown, the magnetic armature moves upward. Therefore, the magnetic armature 5 moves from a first position (corresponding to the shown stationary state, and simultaneously to a disconnected, non-conductive, and therefore off switch state) to a second position (corresponding to an active, i.e., conductive, and therefore on switch state). In the active state, contacts 2, 3, 4 are electrically connected to each other.

[0053] To guide the shaft 7 and thus the magnet armature 5, and to form a magnetic circuit with the magnetic core 6 and the coil 8, the switching device 100 also has a yoke 9, which is made of pure iron or a lightly doped iron alloy, or may be made of pure iron or a lightly doped iron alloy, and this yoke forms part of the magnetic circuit. The yoke 9 has an opening in which the shaft 7 is guided. Furthermore, for example, a sleeve or bushing (made of, for example, plastic material) may be additionally arranged in the opening of the yoke 9 for guiding the shaft 7. When the current flow in the coil 8 is interrupted, the magnet armature 5 moves back to the first position by one or more springs 10 (which may also be called return springs). In the view shown, the magnet armature 5 thus moves downward again. At this time, the switching device 100 is again in a stationary state, in which the contacts 2, 3, 4 are open.

[0054] The direction of movement of the magnet armature 5 and therefore the movable contact 4 is hereinafter also referred to as the vertical direction 91. Unless otherwise stated, expressions such as "above" or "below" refer to the vertical direction 91. The arrangement direction of the fixed contacts 2 and 3 (which is perpendicular to the vertical direction 91) is hereinafter referred to as the longitudinal direction 92. The direction perpendicular to both the vertical direction 91 and the longitudinal direction 92 is hereinafter referred to as the transverse direction 93. Directions 91, 92, and 93 (which also apply independently of the switch movement) are shown in the drawings for ease of orientation.

[0055] For example, when contacts 2, 3, 4 are opened, at least one electric arc may be generated, which may damage the contact surfaces of contacts 2, 3, 4. This may result in contacts 2, 3, 4 becoming "stuck" together due to welding caused by the electric arc and no longer separating from each other. In this case, although the current in coil 8 has been cut off and therefore the load circuit must be disconnected, the switching device 100 remains in the ON state. To prevent the generation of such an arc, or at least to support the extinguishing of any arc that has occurred, contacts 2, 3, 4 are arranged in a gas atmosphere, thus the switching device 100 is constructed as a gas-filled relay or gas-filled contactor. For this purpose, contacts 2, 3, 4 are arranged in a gas-tight region 14 formed by a tightly sealed portion within a switch chamber 11 formed by the switch chamber wall 12 and the switch chamber bottom 13, wherein the switch chamber 11 can be part of the gas-tight region 14. The gas-tight region 14 is essentially formed by the switch chamber 11, the yoke 9, and portions of the additional wall. The airtight region 14 completely surrounds the magnet armature 5 and the contacts 2, 3, 4, except for the portion of the fixed contacts 2, 3 that is used for external connection. The airtight region 14 and therefore the internal space 15 of the switch chamber 11 are filled with gas. Within the scope of the manufacture of the switch device 100, the gas that can be introduced into the airtight region 14 through the gas filling pipe is particularly preferably hydrogen-containing, for example, containing 20% ​​or more H2 in an inert gas, or even 100% H2, because hydrogen-containing gas can help extinguish the arc.

[0056] The bottom 13 of the switch chamber is positioned above the flange 16, in which a yoke 9 is arranged, and the flange forms part of the magnetic circuit. The flange 16 may be made of iron or steel.

[0057] Outside the switch chamber 11, there may be an additional permanent magnet 17, a so-called arc-blowing magnet, which is set up and positioned to deflect the electric arc. The arc-blowing magnet in particular causes the arc path to be extended and thereby improves the arc extinction.

[0058] The switch chamber walls 12 and the switch chamber bottom 13 may be made of, for example, metal oxides (such as Al2O3). Additionally, plastics with sufficient high-temperature resistance, such as PEEK, PE, and / or glass fiber-filled PBT, are also suitable. Alternatively or additionally, the switch chamber 11 may also have at least part of POM, particularly containing (CH2O). n Structure. This type of plastic is characterized by a relatively low carbon content and a very low tendency to form graphite, especially for (CH2O). n In contrast, with equal proportions of carbon and oxygen, thermally induced and especially arc-induced decomposition primarily produces gaseous CO and H2. Additional hydrogen can enhance arc extinguishing.

[0059] Embodiments of a switching device 100 and its components are described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. These embodiments allow for the detection of a switching state, wherein, in addition to the features described below, the switching device 100 described below can be combined with... Figure 1 The switching device 100 described herein is constructed in the same manner. For ease of orientation and identification of the cutting plane, directions 91, 92, and 93 are also indicated in the following figures.

[0060] exist Figure 2A and Figure 2B The switchgear 100 is shown in part with the aid of three-dimensional and two-dimensional sectional views, which basically show the areas of the airtight zone 14 and the switch chamber 11. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The cutting planes of the views are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction by 92 degrees. Figure 2C The middle shows with Figure 2A The view corresponding to the view, where in Figure 2C In the middle, the switching device 100 is in another switching state. Figure 2D The image shows a three-dimensional external view of the airtight region 14. Figure 2E and Figure 2F The image shows the contact plate 31 and the spring contact portion 30. Figures 2G to 2M Different views of the switch chamber wall 12 and the switch chamber floor 13 are shown. The following description also relates to... Figures 2A to 2M .

[0061] and Figure 1 Compared to the switching device, according to Figures 2A to 2M The switching device 100 has two auxiliary contact portions 25, which are arranged in the opening 125 of the switch chamber wall 12 and extend into the internal space 15 of the switch chamber 11 in the same way as the fixed contact portions 2,3.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, an additional opening 126 is constructed between the auxiliary contact portions 25 arranged along the transverse direction 93, in which a gas filling nozzle 26 is arranged. The gas filling nozzle 26 can be used to fill the airtight area with a gaseous atmosphere and, after filling, can be sealed, for example, by flattening.

[0063] The auxiliary contact 25 and the gas filling pipe 26 are preferably brazed into the openings 125, 126 of the switch chamber 11, so that the through-guiding of the auxiliary contact 25 and the gas filling pipe 26 into the switch chamber 11 can be performed in contrast to the through-guiding of the fixed contacts 2, 3, with a tightly sealed and, for example, brazed connection. The installation of the fixed contacts 2, 3, the auxiliary contact 25, and the gas filling pipe 26 can preferably be completed in a single, common process.

[0064] The auxiliary contact 25 is preferably arranged entirely within the housing. The auxiliary contact 25 can be contacted externally via a feed line within the housing (not shown, which is electrically connected, for example, to an external electrical connection at the housing). Alternatively, the auxiliary contact 25 can extend from the housing like the fixed contacts 2, 3 and can be contacted from outside the housing.

[0065] Furthermore, the switching device 100 has two spring contacts 30 and a contact plate 31, which are arranged in the switch chamber 11. The spring contacts 30 and the contact plate 31 are specifically arranged entirely within the internal space 15 of the switch chamber 11. Each of the spring contacts 30 extends from one of the auxiliary contacts 25 to the contact plate 31, and as... Figure 2F The switch 100 is shown with a first contact area 301 and a second contact area 302, which are connected to each other by a connecting area 303. Each spring contact 30 contacts one of the auxiliary contacts 25 with its first contact area 301. In particular, during normal operation, each spring contact 30 is able to maintain contact with one of the auxiliary contacts 25 with its first contact area 301 permanently and independently of the switching state of the switch 100. As can be seen, the first contact area 301 of the spring contact 30 directly and therefore mechanically rests against the auxiliary contact 25.

[0066] The contact plate 31 can move together with the movable contact part 4. Therefore, the contact plate 31 and the movable contact part 4 are jointly coupled with the above-described structure. Figure 1 The mechanical drive connection is described. In the non-conducting switching state of the switching device 100 (i.e.,...) Figure 2A and Figure 2B In the static state shown, the contact plate 31 is spaced apart from the second contact area 302 of the spring contact portion 30. In the conductive switch state (in this conductive switch state, the fixed contact portions 2 and 3 are in contact with the movable contact portion 4 and their...), Figure 2C (As shown in the diagram), the contact plate 31 is in mechanical contact with the second contact area 302. For this purpose, the contact plate 31 has a contact area 312, such as... Figure 2E As shown. According to Figure 2C The conducting state of the switching device 100 is the first switching state of the switching device 100, and according to Figure 2A and Figure 2B The non-conducting state of the switching device 100 is the second switching state. Therefore, in the second switching state, a switching gap exists between the movable contact 4 and the fixed contacts 2 and 3. In the first switching state, the second contact area 302 of the spring contact 30 and the contact area 312 of the contact plate 31 are in mechanical contact and therefore in electrical contact, so that the spring contact 30 and therefore the auxiliary contact 25 are electrically connected to each other through the contact plate 31. Thus, for example, by measuring the resistance at the auxiliary contact 25, the first switching state and the second switching state can be distinguished.

[0067] Movable contact 4 and contact plate 31 are arranged at electrically insulated contact retainer 47. Contact retainer 47 has an opening into which shaft 7 is inserted, and contact retainer is fixed to shaft 7 of the magnetic armature 5 and thus the mechanical actuator of switching device 100. Contact retainer 47 can be constructed as a single piece or as multiple pieces.

[0068] The movable contact 4 and contact plate 31 are electrically insulated from the shaft 7 via the contact retainer 47. Thus, the movable contact 4 and contact plate 31 are electrically insulated from the components of the mechanical actuator (i.e., especially the components with the magnet armature 5). For this purpose, the contact retainer has or is made of an electrically insulating material, such as polymer and ceramic materials, like polyoxymethylene (POM, especially those containing (CH2O)). n Structure), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), glass fiber filled PBT, and electrically insulating metal oxides (such as aluminum oxide Al2O3)).

[0069] The contact plate 31 is fixed to the contact retainer 47. This fixing can be achieved, for example, by clamping, or, as shown, particularly preferably by overmolding. For this purpose, the contact plate 31 is partially overmolded with the material of the contact retainer 47, for example, by overmolding casting or injection molding. For contact of the second contact area 302 of the spring contact 30, the contact area 312 of the contact plate 31 extends from the contact retainer 47 in the transverse direction 93.

[0070] like Figure 2E As shown, the contact plate 31 is constructed, for example, in a disc shape and has a central opening 313 through which the shaft 7 extends in the installed state. Furthermore, as shown, the contact plate 31 may have an anchoring hole 314 through which the material of the contact retainer 47 can pass, thereby securing the contact plate 31 to the contact retainer 47 and, for example, preventing torsion.

[0071] The contact retainer 47 also includes a lower stop 471 and an upper stop 472. The contact plate 31 is arranged in the lower stop 471, and in the second switching state, the lower stop is reliably positioned on the bottom 13 of the switch chamber. In the second switching state, the movable contact 4 abuts against the upper stop 472. A [missing information - likely a type of abutment] is arranged between the movable contact 4 and the lower stop 471. Figure 1 The contact spring 40 described herein presses the movable contact portion 4 against the stop portion 472 and thus presses it toward the fixed contact portion 2,3.

[0072] The magnet armature 5 with movable contact 4 is an overtravel system, in which movable contact 4 is movably arranged at contact retainer 47. When movable contact 4 stops at fixed contacts 2, 3, and therefore the switching gap is fully closed in the first switching state, contact spring 40 can be elastically compressed, while magnet armature 5 can continue to move until, for example, magnetic core 6 abuts against yoke 9. For example, the distance the magnet armature moves upward in the vertical direction 91 can be less than or equal to 1 mm further than movable contact 4, and particularly preferably about 0.5 mm further. Through the elastic compression of contact spring 40 due to overtravel, the pressing force of movable contact 4 at fixed contacts 2, 3 can be increased, and a certain degree of insensitivity to vibration and mechanical shock can be achieved.

[0073] Especially Figures 2G to 2IAs can be seen, the switch chamber wall 12 has a rectangular cross-sectional shape or at least an approximately rectangular cross-sectional shape in the horizontal sectional view, which may have rounded corners, for example, as shown. The switch chamber wall 12 has opposing transverse sidewall portions 121 and opposing longitudinal sidewall portions 122, which are at least approximately rectangular in shape. The transverse sidewall portions 121, the longitudinal sidewall portions 122, and the cover portions 119 having openings 120 for fixing contacts 2,3 and openings 125, 126 for auxiliary contacts 25 and gas filling pipes 26 are constructed integrally and form the switch chamber wall 12, as shown in the illustrated embodiment. The switch chamber wall 12 is particularly preferably made of the aforementioned ceramic material.

[0074] As described above, each spring contact portion 30 has a connecting region 303 between the first contact region 301 and the second contact region 302, such as... Figures 2A to 2C As can be seen, the connection area extends along the longitudinal sidewall portion 122. The first contact area 301 and the second contact area 302 of each spring contact portion 30 may preferably extend from the corresponding longitudinal sidewall portion 122 into the interior space 15 of the switch chamber 11 at least in the lateral direction 93.

[0075] The spring contact 30 and / or contact plate 31 preferably have a copper or copper alloy material. Particularly preferred is a material selected from CuBe, CuSn4, or CuSn6. These materials have good electrical conductivity and low weldability. The auxiliary contact 25 may be made of the material described above for the fixed contacts 2 and 3 or the material described for the spring contact 30 and / or contact plate 31.

[0076] As shown, the spring contact portion 30 is preferably constructed as a strip, particularly as a metal strip. At least one contact area of ​​the contact regions 301, 302 of each spring contact portion 30 may be configured to be spring-resilient. For example, the first contact region 301 of each spring contact portion 30 may be configured to be spring-resilient and may apply spring force to the auxiliary contact portion 25. Thus, in the installed state, the first contact region 301 may be pressed against the auxiliary contact portion 25, thereby applying spring force.

[0077] Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, the second contact area 302 is preferably also configured to be spring-elastic. Particularly preferably, in the first switching state, the second contact area 302 applies a spring force to the contact plate 31 and, in particular, the contact area 312 of the contact plate. Through the spring-elastic action of the second contact area 302, insensitivity to vibration and mechanical shock can be achieved in the mechanical contact between the contact plate 31 and the second contact area 302 of the spring contact portion 30 relative to increased vibration and mechanical shock. Particularly preferably, the spring force applied by the second contact area 302 to the contact plate 31, and thus the counterforce applied to the magnet armature and, in particular, the contact portion retainer 47, can be less than the reset spring force of the mechanical actuator's reset spring 10, which moves the magnet armature from the on-switch state to the off-switch state. Particularly preferably, the spring force applied by the second contact area 302 to the contact plate 31 can be less than or equal to 20% of the reset spring force. When the switching device 100 transitions from a first switching state to a second switching state, the contact plate 31 loses mechanical contact with the second contact area 302 of the spring contact portion 30 after traveling a certain distance, which is greater than the overtravel. In other words, as long as the overtravel is not eliminated, the second contact area 302 maintains mechanical contact with the contact area 312 of the contact plate 31. Only when the overtravel is eliminated, and the magnet armature 5 and, in particular, the contact portion retainer 47, together with the contact plate 31 fixed thereon, move downwards such a distance that the movable contact portion 4 moves away from the fixed contacts 2,3 via the magnet armature 5, does the second contact area 302 lose mechanical contact with the contact plate 31. This ensures that even if the movable contact portion 4 is in mechanical contact with at least one fixed contact portion 2,3, for example, due to accidental welding, the contact plate 31 remains in mechanical contact with the spring contact portion 30. In this case, only the overtravel is eliminated, and the movable contact 4 remains in the conducting state. This can be detected at the auxiliary contact 25, which is always short-circuited through the contact plate, even if the mechanical drive of the switching device 100 has been disconnected.

[0078] therefore, Figures 2A to 2M The switching device 100 of the embodiment shown can reliably identify the “safe closed” state and combines the reliable identification with a simple mechanical structure for detection and for drawing signals out from a tightly sealed switching chamber.

[0079] Especially Figure 2H and Figure 2IAs can be seen, the switch chamber wall 12 also has at least two bridge plates 123, each of which is arranged longitudinally 92 between at least two fixed contacts 2,3, and each of these bridge plates extends from at least one longitudinal sidewall portion 122 into the switch chamber 11 in the transverse direction 93. These bridge plates 123 are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction 92. In particular, the bridge plates 123 can extend transversely 93 across the movable contact 4 into the interior space 15 of the switch chamber 11 from one longitudinal sidewall portion 122 to another longitudinal sidewall portion 122. Furthermore, each bridge plate 123 has a recess 124 in which the movable contact 4 can move during the switching process. As shown, the bridge plates 123 are preferably directly connected to the cover portion 119 of the switch chamber wall 12. In particular, the bridge plates 123 can extend along the cover portion 119 of the switch chamber 11 and directly adjacent to the cover portion of the switch chamber. These bridge plates 123 are particularly preferably integrally constructed with the side wall portion 122 and the cover portion 119 of the switch chamber wall 12.

[0080] A region is formed in the internal space 15 between the fixed contacts 2 and 3 by means of the bridge piece 123. This region is at least partially separated from the fixed contacts 2 and 3 and is therefore electrically insulated. Within the thus formed insulated space 127, the auxiliary contact 25, the spring contact 30, and the gas filling pipe 26 are arranged.

[0081] The auxiliary contact portion 25 is particularly preferably arranged symmetrically with respect to the movable contact portion 4 between the two bridge pieces 123. Correspondingly, the spring contact portion 30 is also arranged symmetrically with respect to the movable contact portion 4 between the two bridge pieces 123. Since at least one bridge piece of the bridge pieces 123 is constructed between each auxiliary contact portion 25 and the fixed contact portions 2,3, and between each spring contact portion 30 and the fixed contact portions 2,3, the auxiliary contact portions 25 and the spring contact portions 30 are at least partially insulated from the fixed contact portions 2,3.

[0082] For example Figures 2K to 2MAs shown, the bottom 13 of the switch chamber (particularly preferably made of POM or other plastics mentioned above) has a base plate 130 with an opening 131 for the shaft 7 to pass through. The bottom 13 of the switch chamber has sidewall portions 132, 133 at least partially surrounding the edge of the base plate 130, which are pushed into the switch chamber wall 12 along the sidewall portions 121, 122 of the switch chamber wall 12 when the switch chamber 11 is assembled. The sidewall portions 132, 133 of the switch chamber bottom are preferably integrally constructed with the base plate 130 of the switch chamber bottom 13. In the assembled switch chamber 11, the sidewall portions 132, 133 of the switch chamber bottom 13 can be surrounded by the sidewall portions 121, 122 of the switch chamber wall 12, such that the sidewall portions 132, 133 of the switch chamber bottom 13 can form a push-in portion into the switch chamber wall 12. At least a portion of the sidewall portions 132, 133 at the bottom of the switch chamber may be spaced apart from the sidewall portions of the switch chamber wall. The base plate 130 may be used as a mating stop for the lower stop 471 of the contact retainer 47, at least in some areas surrounding the opening 131. For mechanical stability, the base plate 130 may, for example, have crossed bridge plates as shown.

[0083] Spring contacts 30 are arranged on the side wall portions 132 of the bottom of the switch chamber 13, which are opposite each other in the transverse direction 93 and spaced apart from the longitudinal side wall portions 122 of the switch chamber wall 12. The connecting region 303 of each spring contact 30 is arranged in the transverse direction 93 behind the side wall portion 132, such that for each spring contact 30, a side wall portion 132 of the bottom of the switch chamber 13 is arranged between the movable contact 4 and the connecting region 303. Therefore, the connecting region 303 of each spring contact 30 is arranged in the transverse direction 93 between a side wall portion 122 of the switch chamber wall 12 and a side wall portion 132 of the bottom of the switch chamber 13.

[0084] Furthermore, the bottom 13 of the switch chamber has an opening 134 in the corresponding sidewall portion 132 for each spring contact 30, through which the second contact area 302 of the spring contact 30 extends through the sidewall 132 of the bottom of the switch chamber. Thus, the second contact area 302 of each spring contact 30 can extend laterally 93 toward the movable contact 4. For example, in… Figure 2M As can be seen, each of the sidewall portions 132 may be provided with an additional opening 134, which is arranged at a different height. In particular, the additional opening 134 is located in the region of the base plate 130. Thus, when using other spring contacts with longer connection areas, the second contact area can be guided at a different height toward the movable contact 4 and therefore also toward the contact plate 31, as further described below. Figure 3Aand Figure 3B Described.

[0085] Furthermore, each spring contact 30 has at least one opening 304 in the connection area 303, through which a fixing element 135 of the corresponding sidewall portion 132 of the switch chamber bottom 13 extends. The fixing element is particularly preferably integrally constructed with the corresponding sidewall portion and is used to fix the corresponding spring contact. In the illustrated embodiment, each spring contact 30 has two openings 304 and is fixed to the sidewall portion 132 by means of two fixing elements 135. For example, as shown, the fixing element 135 can be constructed in the form of a pin, achieving a riveted fixation.

[0086] Furthermore, the bottom 13 of the switch chamber has wall portions 136 on both sides of the opening 131. These wall portions, viewed in the longitudinal direction 92, are arranged side-by-side between the bridge plates 123 of the switch chamber wall 12, and together with the side wall portion 132 on which the spring contact portion 30 is located, form a push-in region 139. Permanent magnets 17, particularly arc-blowing magnets, are arranged in the push-in region 139. Specifically, each of the permanent magnets 17 can be reliably placed on a support surface 138 (formed at the wall portion 136) and fixed in the push-in region 139 by a snap-fit ​​mechanism 137 (e.g., formed by barbs). Therefore, the bottom 13 of the switch chamber particularly preferably has two push-in regions 139, with the movable contact portion 4 arranged between these two push-in regions in the transverse direction 93. When transitioning from a first switching state to a second switching state and vice versa, the movable contact portion 4 is preferably movable along the push-in region 139 in the vertical direction 91. The additional wall portion 136' of the push-in area 139 can be interconnected and arranged between the permanent magnet 17 and the movable contact portion 4. An opening is provided below the additional wall portion 136' between the wall portions 136, and the contact area 312 of the contact plate 31 can move in the opening.

[0087] For example Figure 2J As shown, a clamping element 32 can be placed on the contact bridge 4, abutting against the additional wall portion 136' of the push-in area 139. This clamping element can be made of the same material as the bottom 13 of the switch chamber. The clamping element 32 (which can be kept at a distance from the cover portion 119 by means of a spacer retainer 321 (which can be configured as a dotted shape)) can, for example, shield the gas filling pipe 26 from the contacts 2, 3, 4, thereby preventing the generation of an electric arc in the area of ​​the gas filling pipe 26.

[0088] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3B According to another embodiment, it corresponds to Figure 2A and Figure 2MThe view in the figure shows a portion of the switching device 100, wherein the spring contact 30 is constructed to be longer, such that the second contact area 302 of the spring contact 30 is guided through the lower opening 134 in the sidewall portion 132 described above. Thus, in the first switching state (where the contact plate 31 and the spring contact 30 are in mechanical contact in this first switching state), the switching device 100 is in a non-conductive switching state (i.e., in a stationary state), as... Figure 3A As can be seen from this, in the second switching state (where the contact plate 31 and the spring contact portion 30 are spaced apart), the switching device 100 is in a conducting switching state. Therefore, in Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the embodiment shown, the stationary state of the switching device 100 can be detected by the following method: the auxiliary contact 25 is short-circuited by the spring contact 30 and the contact plate 31. Therefore, with Figures 2A to 2M Compared to the previous embodiment, Figure 3A and Figure 3B The embodiment shown has the reverse switching state detection characteristic, which can only be achieved by using other spring contacts 30. Therefore, according to customer expectations, the switching device 100 can be provided with the desired switching state detection characteristic in a simple manner and without other structural modifications.

[0089] The second contact area 302 of the spring contact 30 is preferably constructed such that when the switching device 100 switches from the first switching state to the second switching state, the contact plate 31 loses mechanical contact with the second contact area 302 of the spring contact 30 after traveling a certain distance, which is less than or equal to 20% of the switching gap. This ensures that the travel distance that the magnet armature 5 must travel from the first switching state to the second switching state before the contact between the contact plate 31 and the spring contact 30 is interrupted is very small. The second contact area 302 of the spring contact 30 is particularly preferably constructed and, for example, slightly curved upwards, such that when the second contact area of ​​the spring contact contacts the contact area 312 of the contact plate 31, it is pressed downwards by about 0.5 mm as the magnet armature 5 and therefore the contact plate 31 move downwards until the lower stop of the magnet armature 5, and correspondingly, when the magnet armature 5 and therefore the contact plate 31 move upwards, the second contact area of ​​the spring contact loses contact with the contact plate 31 after a corresponding distance.

[0090] In the event that the movable contact 4 remains in the conducting state despite the mechanical actuator being disengaged and the switching device 100 being supposed to return to the first switching state due to adhesion or mechanical failure, the second contact area 302 of the contact plate 31 and the spring contact 30 remains spaced apart, thus the first switching state cannot be read at the auxiliary contact 25. This is possible even considering overtravel, because although the magnet armature 5, together with the contact plate 3, falls a certain distance downward relative to the movable contact 4 toward the bottom 13 of the switch chamber, the distance between the contact plate 31 and the second contact area 302 of the spring contact 30 is always large enough to definitively prevent the establishment of a conductive connection between the auxiliary contacts 25. The mechanical effects caused by the impact follow the characteristics of the mechanical actuator and the movable contact 4. That is, even after the movable contact 4 is lifted from the fixed contacts 2, 3 due to acceleration, the electrical contact between the auxiliary contacts 25 will still correctly indicate that it is not fully open. Therefore, Figure 3A and Figure 3B The switching device 100 of the embodiment shown can reliably identify the “safe open” state and combines the reliable identification with a simple mechanical structure for detection and for drawing signals out from a tightly sealed switching chamber.

[0091] According to the implementation scheme of IEC 60947-5-1, this form can also detect the state of "the switch cannot be closed", that is, the state in which the active system is blocked in the open position. Even if the upper part of the switch is damaged, it is still possible to detect whether the switch is in a non-conductive state.

[0092] One advantage of the switching device 100 described herein is its very cost-effective manufacturing, as it requires no wiring and no integrated circuits. Furthermore, the detection of magnetic interference is impossible. Additionally, in both embodiments, the detection of the switching state is performed at a sufficiently far distance from the main contacts, i.e., a sufficiently far distance from both the fixed and movable contacts, thereby avoiding problems related to insulation or the risk of damage due to switching arcing.

[0093] According to other embodiments, the features and embodiments described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings can be combined with each other, even if not all combinations are explicitly described. Furthermore, the embodiments described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings may alternatively or additionally have other features as described in the general portion of the specification.

[0094] The invention is not limited to the descriptions given in connection with the embodiments. Rather, the invention includes every new feature and every combination of features, such as, in particular, every combination of features in the claims, even if the feature or combination itself is not expressly given in the claims or embodiments.

[0095] List of reference numerals 1. Shell 2,3 Fixed contact parts 4 movable contact parts 5 Magnet Armature 6 magnetic cores 7-axis 8 coils 9 yoke part 10 springs 11 Switchgear Room 12 switch chamber wall Bottom of switch compartment 13 14 airtight areas 15 Interior Space 16 flange 17 permanent magnets 18 walls 25 Auxiliary Contact Part 26 Gas-filled connector 30 Spring Contact Part 31 contact plate 32 clamping elements 40 contact spring 47 Contact Retainer 91 Vertical direction 92 Longitudinal direction 93 Horizontal direction 100 Switching Device 119 Cover Part 120 opening 121 Transverse sidewall section 122 Longitudinal sidewall portion 123 Bridge Pieces 124 Empty Section 125 is an opening for auxiliary contact parts. 126 Opening for gas-filled nozzle 127 Space 130 base plate 131 opening 132 sidewall section 133 side wall section 134 opening 135 Fixing Components 136,136' wall section 137 support surface 138 buckle mechanism 139 pushed into the area Contact areas 301 and 302 303 Connection Area 304 opening 312 contact area 313 opening 314 Anchor Holes 321 Spacer Retainer 471, 472 Stop section.

Claims

1. A switching device (100), the switching device having -The movable contact (4) in the switch chamber (11), and - At least two auxiliary contacts (25), two spring contacts (30), and a contact plate (31) are located in the switch chamber. in, -The switch chamber (11) has side wall portions (132, 133), - Each of the spring contact portions has a first contact area (301) and a second contact area (302), wherein the first contact area and the second contact area are connected by a connecting area (303). -A sidewall portion (132) is arranged between the connection area of ​​each spring contact portion and the movable contact portion. - The contact plate can move together with the movable contact part.

2. The switching device according to the preceding claim, wherein, The switch chamber has a switch chamber bottom (13), the switch chamber bottom has a base plate (130) and the side wall portion.

3. The switching device according to the preceding claim, wherein... - The switch chamber (11) has a switch chamber wall (12), the switch chamber wall having opposing transverse sidewall portions (121) and opposing longitudinal sidewall portions (122), and - The connection area of ​​each spring contact in the spring contacts extends between the longitudinal sidewall portion and the sidewall portion of the bottom of the switch chamber.

4. The switching device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The bottom of the switch chamber has a push-in region (139) between each spring contact and the movable contact in the spring contact portion, and a permanent magnet (17) is arranged in the push-in region.

5. The switching device according to the preceding claim, wherein, Each of the push-in areas has a latching mechanism (138) by means of which the corresponding permanent magnet is fixed.

6. The switching device according to claim 3 and any one of claims 4 and 5, wherein, -The switching device has at least two fixed contacts (2,3), - The switch chamber has at least two bridge plates (123) arranged longitudinally between the at least two fixed contacts, and each of the bridge plates extends laterally into the switch chamber from at least one longitudinal sidewall portion. - The pushing area is arranged between the bridge plates.

7. The switching device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the spring contacts has at least one opening (304) in the connection area, through which a fixing element (135) of the corresponding sidewall portion of the bottom of the switch chamber extends.

8. The switching device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the sidewall portions between the connection area of ​​one of the spring contacts and the movable contact portion has an opening (134), and a corresponding second contact area extends through the opening.

9. The switching device according to the preceding claim, wherein, The corresponding second contact area extends through the corresponding opening toward the contact plate.

10. The switching device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The switching device has at least two fixed contacts (2,3) arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction (92), and the auxiliary contacts arranged side by side along the transverse direction (93).

11. The switching device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, - The switching device has a mechanical actuator for moving the movable contact and the contact plate, the mechanical actuator having a magnetic armature (5) with a shaft (7), the movable contact and the contact plate being arranged at the shaft, and The auxiliary contact, the spring contact, and the contact plate are electrically insulated from the fixed contact, the movable contact, and the mechanical actuator.

12. The switching device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The movable contact and the contact plate are arranged at the electrically insulating contact holder (47).

13. The switching device according to claim 12, wherein, The contact plate is fixed to the contact retainer, while the movable contact portion is movably arranged at the contact retainer.

14. The switching device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, In the first switching state, the second contact area applies spring force to the contact plate.

15. The switching device according to the preceding claim, wherein, A contact spring (40) is arranged at the contact retainer, the contact spring applying a spring force toward the fixed contact to the movable contact, and wherein the spring force in the second contact area is less than the spring force of the contact spring.

16. The switching device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein - In the first switching state of the switching device, the contact plate is in contact with the second contact area of ​​the spring contact portion; while in the second switching state, the contact plate and the second contact area of ​​the spring contact portion are spaced apart, and - In the first switch state or the second switch state, the movable contact part is separated from the fixed contact part through the switch gap; and when the switch device changes from the first switch state to the second switch state, the contact plate loses mechanical contact with the second contact area of ​​the spring contact part after traveling a certain distance, the distance being less than or equal to 20% of the switch gap.

17. The switching device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the first contact areas (301) of the spring contact applies a spring force to one of the auxiliary contacts.

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