Circuit breaker

Abstract

The invention relates to a circuit breaker (10) comprising a first electrical contact (11) and a second electrical contact (12), which are movably arranged relative to each other in a movement direction (D). Preferably, the first electrical contact (11) is a pin (20) and the second electrical contact (12) is a socket (21). In the contact position (CP), the outer contact surface (14) of the first electrical contact (11) is in mechanical and electrical contact with the inner contact surface (15) of the second electrical contact (12). An inner hollow space (27) is provided inside the first electrical contact (11), which is fluidically connected to at least one gas flow opening (24) provided in the region of the distal end (16) of the first electrical contact (11). The inner hollow space (27) is in fluid connection with a gas flow generating device (30). During a relative movement of the first electrical contact (11) and the second electrical contact (12) in the movement direction (D), a gas flow (G) can be generated through the inner hollow space (27) and the at least one gas flow opening (24) for cooling at least the distal end (16) of the first electrical contact (11) in order to avoid the generation of an electrical arc between the two electrical contacts (11, 12), or terminating the electrical arc at least as quickly as possible.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a circuit breaker, particularly a high-voltage circuit breaker, which provides improved arc cooling and / or arc extinguishing. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of circuit breaker technology, it is known to provide devices and apparatus for cooling or interrupting electrical arcs that occur when two electrical contacts of a circuit breaker move away from each other to interrupt the electrical current flowing between the two contacts in the contact position (continuous state). Such arc generation is undesirable because the current flowing between the electrical contacts continues until the electrical arc is extinguished. Furthermore, such electrical arcs exert stress on the electrical contacts and can shorten the life of the circuit breaker.

[0003] To cool and extinguish electric arcs, gases (particularly sulfur hexafluoride) are known to be used for cooling and cutting off the arc. While the gas cooling methods used until now are suitable, improvements in arc cooling are desired to resist arc generation and / or shorten the arc lifetime (i.e., the duration from the start of arc generation until arc extinction). Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to improve the cooling and / or interruption of the electrical arc formed in the circuit breaker during the interruption of the current flowing between the two electrical contacts of the circuit breaker.

[0005] This objective is achieved by the circuit breaker according to claim 1.

[0006] The circuit breaker according to the invention includes a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact. The first electrical contact has an outer contact surface (particularly in the region of the outer circumferential surface). The outer contact surface may be annular and / or may have a cylindrical circumferential surface. The second electrical contact has an inner contact surface configured to abut against the outer contact surface when the two electrical contacts are in the contact position. The first contact may be a male contact, and the second contact may be a female contact.

[0007] The first and second electrical contacts are movable relative to each other in the direction of movement. They can move relative to each other between a contact position and a blocking position. In the blocking position, the two electrical contacts are arranged at a distance relative to each other, which is sufficient to prevent the formation of an electrical arc between the two contacts.

[0008] At the contact position, the outer contact surface of the first electrical contact and the inner contact surface of the second electrical contact abut against each other to establish a reliable electrical connection. Therefore, electrical current can flow between the two electrical contacts. When the two electrical contacts move away from each other and leave the contact position, an electrical arc can occur between the first and second electrical contacts, provided the distance between them is insufficient to prevent electrical breakdown.

[0009] To cool and / or interrupt such electrical arcs, the circuit breaker is configured to generate a gas flow in an area where two electrical contacts are mechanically in contact and / or arranged close to each other. The circuit breaker may also be referred to as an arc-blast circuit breaker. To deliver gas to the location where an arc can be generated, the first electrical contact is provided with an internal hollow space, which may be formed by at least one chamber and / or at least one channel within the first electrical contact. This internal hollow space is fluidly connected to at least one gas flow opening of the first electrical contact. The gas flow opening is located at the distal end or tip of the first electrical contact. If both contacts are in the blocked position, the distal end of the first electrical contact is positioned closer to the tip of the second electrical contact.

[0010] The gas flow generating device is fluidly connected to an internal hollow space and / or may at least partially include the internal hollow space. Therefore, depending on whether the gas flow generating device is configured to blow gas out of at least one gas flow opening or to draw gas into at least one gas flow opening, the gas flow generated by the gas flow generating device may flow from the internal hollow space through at least one gas flow opening to exit the first electrical contact, or flow through at least one gas flow opening into the internal hollow space of the first electrical contact.

[0011] In particular, the gas flow generating device can be configured to generate a gas flow once the two electrical contacts move out of contact position, or at least during the phase when the mechanical contact between the first and second electrical contacts terminates.

[0012] In an embodiment, when an electrical arc is generated, the gas flow is exclusively or at least partially generated by an increase in pressure inside the circuit breaker housing. Specifically, due to the electrical arc, the temperature rises, which in turn increases the pressure of the gas disposed inside the circuit breaker housing. Preferably, the gas flow generating device includes a gas compartment fluidly connected to at least one gas flow opening via an internal hollow space, and / or the gas compartment is part of the internal hollow space. In particular, the gas compartment is separate from the enveloping volume fluid inside the circuit breaker housing and may be exclusively fluidly connected to at least one gas flow opening (e.g., directly as part of the internal hollow space, or indirectly connected via the internal hollow space). For example, the gas compartment may be implemented by a gas container fluidly connected to the internal hollow space, or may be an integrated portion of the first electrical contact.

[0013] Temperature and pressure can vary according to the electrical current (e.g., alternating current, AC) flowing between the electrical contacts. Thus, when the pressure increases (causing an increase in electrical current), gas can be forced into the gas compartment, and when the pressure decreases (causing a decrease in electrical current), the gas can exit the gas compartment again. Using this effect, the gas compartment does not require the displacement of a movable pressure-generating component (such as a piston). However, such a pressure-generating component can be additionally provided.

[0014] It should be noted that the gas flow generating device may be additionally configured to generate a gas flow from the second electrical contact toward and / or around the first electrical contact.

[0015] The increased temperature caused by the electrical arc also increases the gas temperature inside the gas compartment, causing the pressure inside the gas compartment to exceed the pressure outside the gas compartment but inside the circuit breaker housing. Therefore, a gas flow is generated to exit from the gas compartment, towards and out of at least one gas flow opening.

[0016] The internal volume of the gas compartment (compartment volume) is smaller than the internal volume of the free space inside the circuit breaker housing (free housing volume). The free housing volume is the internal volume of the circuit breaker housing in which the gas exists. The free housing volume can be defined as the total internal volume of the circuit breaker housing minus the total volume of all parts arranged inside the circuit breaker housing.

[0017] Specifically, the compartment volume can be a maximum of 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of the free shell volume. For example, the compartment volume can be a maximum of 0.30 liters, 0.20 liters, or 0.15 liters, and can be approximately 0.1 liters.

[0018] Alternatively, an additional gas flow can be generated around the first electrical contact, particularly by blowing gas out of the second electrical contact or by drawing gas into the second electrical contact.

[0019] By positioning the gas flow inside the first electrical contact, improved cooling of the first electrical contact, particularly in the region of the outer contact surface, can be achieved. The gas flow through at least one gas flow opening in the first electrical contact also improves the gas flow along the first electrical contact, allowing for improved separation of the gas flow from the surface of the first contact (particularly in the region of the at least one gas flow opening). Furthermore, shock wave mitigation can be improved.

[0020] The gas used can be described as a cutting-off gas or an insulating medium. For example, one of the following gases or gas mixtures can be used: - Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), - Carbon dioxide (CO2), -Nitrogen (N2) - A mixture of carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), and fluoronitrile (e.g., C4-PFN). - A mixture of carbon dioxide (CO2) and fluoronitriles (e.g., C4-PFN), - A mixture of carbon dioxide (CO2) and oxygen (O2) - A mixture of carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), and fluoroketones (e.g., C5-PFK). - A mixture of carbon dioxide (CO2) and fluoroketones (e.g., C5-PFK). A mixture of nitrogen (N2) and fluoronitriles (e.g., C4-PFN), or - A mixture of nitrogen (N2) and oxygen (O2), The gas can be supplied to the gas flow generating device. In particular, it can be present inside the circuit breaker housing and thus in the environment surrounding the electrical contacts.

[0021] Advantageously, the first electrical contact forms a pin or male contact, and / or the second electrical contact forms a socket or female contact. The electrical connection between the pin and socket can be established and interrupted by linear or non-linear (e.g., pivoting) movement along the direction of movement. In a preferred embodiment, the first electrical contact extends along a first central axis, and the second electrical contact extends along a second central axis. The outer contact surface of the first contact may extend concentrically about the first contact axis. The two central axes are oriented parallel to the direction of movement. At the contact position between the first and second electrical contacts, the first and second central axes are aligned so that they coincide. In at least one embodiment, the first and second central axes are permanently aligned so that they coincide.

[0022] In one embodiment, the first electrical contact may include a single gas flow opening. The gas flow opening may be a central opening through which a first central axis extends. In a modified embodiment, one or more additional gas flow openings may be provided in addition to the central opening.

[0023] In at least one embodiment, at least one gas flow opening may be provided, arranged at a distance relative to a first central axis. Such a gas flow opening may be referred to as an offset opening. In addition to a central opening or as an alternative to a central opening, at least one offset opening may be provided. The orientation of the opening axis of the at least one offset opening is preferably inclined relative to the first central axis.

[0024] If more than one gas flow opening is provided, two or more of these gas flow openings may have equal or different cross-sections. The orientation of the opening axes of the multiple gas flow openings may be parallel or different from each other. For example, at least one opening axis may be oriented parallel to a first central axis, wherein at least one opening axis may be inclined relative to the first central axis. At least some of the opening axes inclined relative to the first central axis may have equal absolute inclination angles and may be arranged circumferentially around the first central axis at distances from each other.

[0025] The number of gas flow openings can vary. They can be arranged in regular or irregular patterns, and can optionally form a nozzle-like pattern.

[0026] As mentioned above, the gas flow generating device can be configured to generate pressure within the internal hollow space that is higher or lower than the pressure in the environment surrounding the first and second electrical contacts. In doing so, a gas flow can be generated correspondingly exiting the internal hollow space from at least one gas flow opening, or entering the internal hollow space through at least one gas flow opening.

[0027] In an alternative embodiment, the gas flow generating device includes a piston disposed in a cylinder chamber. The cylinder chamber wall in contact with the piston and the piston are movably arranged relative to each other. Depending on the direction of movement of the piston relative to at least one gas flow opening in an upstream or downstream direction, a desired flow direction for the gas flow to exit or enter the gas flow opening can be generated. Preferably, the piston and the cylinder chamber wall are arranged to be movable relative to each other in the direction of movement.

[0028] In one embodiment, at least a section of the internal hollow space within the first electrical contact forms a cylinder chamber. In a modified embodiment, the cylinder chamber may be arranged outside the internal hollow space, particularly within the cylinder housing. In this case, the cylinder chamber is in fluid connection with the internal hollow space. Preferably, the cylinder housing is attached to the first electrical contact, whereby the cylinder housing and the first electrical contact are preferably arranged immovably relative to each other.

[0029] The walls of the limiting cylinder chamber and / or the circumferential contact wall or ring of the piston may be provided with a friction-reducing layer or may be made of a low-friction material.

[0030] Advantageously, a connection arrangement is provided, configured to movably connect at least two movable components of the circuit breaker to each other. The connection is configured to cause movement of at least one of the connected components if the other connected component moves. The movement is specifically initiated by movement of at least one of the electrical contacts in the direction of movement and is transmitted to one of the other movable connected components by means of the connection arrangement. In particular, the at least two movable components connected by means of the connection arrangement are selected from the group consisting of: a first electrical contact, a second electrical contact, and components of the gas flow generating device, particularly the piston and / or cylinder housing.

[0031] The connection arrangement can be configured to cause at least one of the following movements relative to the circuit breaker housing: -If the first and / or second electrical contacts move in the direction of movement, the piston moves while the cylinder chamber remains stationary; -If the first and / or second electrical contacts move in the direction of movement, the piston remains stationary and the cylinder chamber moves; - The first and second electrical contacts move in opposite directions to the direction of movement; -If the first or second electrical contact remains stationary, and the corresponding other electrical contact moves in the direction of movement.

[0032] Technical Solution 1. A circuit breaker (10) comprising a first electrical contact (11) having an outer contact surface (14), a second electrical contact (12) having an inner contact surface (15), and a gas flow generating device (30). The first electrical contact (11) and the second electrical contact (12) are movably supported relative to each other along the moving direction (D) between the contact position (CP) and the blocking position (BP). At the contact position (CP), the inner contact surface (15) of the second electrical contact (12) contacts the outer contact surface (14) of the first electrical contact (11). At the blocking position (BP), the inner contact surface (15) of the second electrical contact (12) and the outer contact surface (14) of the first electrical contact (11) are arranged at a distance from each other. The first electrical contact (11) is characterized in that it includes an internal hollow space (27) and at least one gas flow opening (24), the at least one gas flow opening (24) is disposed at the distal end (16) of the first electrical contact (11) and leads to the internal hollow space (27), and the gas flow generating device (30) is fluidly connected to the at least one gas flow opening (24) via the internal hollow space (27).

[0033] Technical Solution 2. The circuit breaker according to Technical Solution 1, wherein the gas flow generating device (30) includes at least one gas compartment (28, 29).

[0034] Technical Solution 3. The circuit breaker according to Technical Solution 2, wherein a gas compartment (28) is fluidly connected to or is a portion of the hollow space (27), and wherein the gas compartment (29) is preferably exclusively fluidly connected to the at least one gas flow opening (24).

[0035] Technical Solution 4. The circuit breaker according to Technical Solution 2 or 3, wherein at least one of the gas compartments (28, 29) has a limited constant volume and preferably does not include a movable volume-changing component.

[0036] Technical Solution 5. The circuit breaker according to any one of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the first electrical contact (11) is a pin (20).

[0037] Technical Solution 6. The circuit breaker according to any one of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the second electrical contact (12) is a socket (21).

[0038] Technical Solution 7. The circuit breaker according to any one of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the first electrical contact (11) extends along a first central axis (C1), and the second electrical contact (12) extends along a second central axis (C2), and wherein the first central axis (C1) and the second central axis (C2) are oriented parallel to the direction of movement (D).

[0039] Technical Solution 8. The circuit breaker according to Technical Solution 7, wherein the at least one gas flow opening (24) includes a central opening (25), and the first central axis (C1) extends through the central opening (25).

[0040] Technical Solution 9. The circuit breaker according to Technical Solution 7 or 8, wherein the at least one gas flow opening (24) includes at least one offset opening (26) arranged at a distance from the first central axis (C1).

[0041] Technical Solution 10. The circuit breaker according to Technical Solution 9, wherein the orientation of the opening axis (OA) of the at least one offset opening (26) is inclined relative to the first central axis (C1).

[0042] Technical Solution 11. The circuit breaker according to any one of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the gas flow generating device (30) is configured to generate a gas flow exiting the at least one gas flow opening (24) from the internal hollow space (27); and / or wherein the gas flow generating device (30) is configured to generate a gas flow entering the internal hollow space (27) through the at least one gas flow opening (24).

[0043] Technical Solution 12. The circuit breaker according to any one of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the gas flow generating device (30) includes a cylinder chamber (32) and a piston (31) arranged in the cylinder chamber (32), wherein the cylinder chamber (32) and the piston (31) are movable relative to each other.

[0044] Technical solution 13. The circuit breaker according to technical solution 12, wherein at least a section of the internal hollow space (27) forms the cylinder chamber (32).

[0045] Technical Solution 14. The circuit breaker according to Technical Solution 12, wherein the cylinder chamber (32) is arranged in the cylinder housing (34) outside the internal hollow space (27) and is fluidly connected to the internal hollow space (27).

[0046] Technical Solution 15. The circuit breaker according to any one of the foregoing technical solutions further includes a connection arrangement (39) that connects at least two movable members to each other such that movement of one of the movable members causes movement of at least one other movable member, wherein the at least two movable members are selected from the following: the first electrical contact (11), the second electrical contact (12), and a movable member of the gas flow generating device (30).

[0047] Technical solution 16. The circuit breaker according to technical solution 15 and any one of technical solutions 10 to 12, wherein the connection arrangement (39) connects at least two of the following components to each other: the first electrical contact (11), the second electrical contact (12), and the piston (31).

[0048] Technical Solution 17. The circuit breaker according to Technical Solution 15, wherein the connection arrangement (39) is configured such that the first electrical contact (11) and the second electrical contact (12) move in opposite directions.

[0049] Technical Solution 18. The circuit breaker according to Technical Solution 16 or 17, wherein the connection arrangement (39) is configured such that (i) The piston (31) is fixed relative to the circuit breaker housing (13); or (ii) The piston (31) and the first electrical contact (11) move in the same direction but with different path lengths; or (iii) The piston (31) and the first electrical contact (11) move in opposite directions.

[0050] Technical Solution 19. The circuit breaker according to any one of the foregoing technical solutions further includes a pressure limiting device (35), preferably a spring-loaded pressure limiting valve (36).

[0051] Technical Solution 20. The circuit breaker according to any one of the foregoing technical solutions, the circuit breaker further includes a nozzle (45) in the gas flow path between the first electrical contact (11) and the second electrical contact (12). Attached Figure Description

[0052] Preferred embodiments are also disclosed in the dependent claims, specification, and drawings. Preferred embodiments of the invention are explained in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings show: Figure 1 An embodiment of the circuit breaker is shown in a schematic block diagram, having a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact arranged at a contact position. Figure 2 Display according to Figure 1 In an embodiment of a circuit breaker, the first and second electrical contacts are in the blocking position. Figure 3 Display according to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Modifications to the embodiments, wherein the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact are in the position as follows: Figure 2 The blocking position in the middle, Figure 4 An embodiment of the circuit breaker is shown in a schematic block diagram, wherein the first and second electrical contacts are in the contact position. Figure 5 show Figure 4 In an embodiment of a circuit breaker, the first and second electrical contacts are in the blocking position. Figures 6 to 8 An embodiment of the circuit breaker is shown in schematic block diagrams, wherein the first and second electrical contacts are in the contact position in each case, and Figure 9 Another embodiment of the circuit breaker is shown in a schematic block diagram, in which the first and second electrical contacts are in the blocking position. Detailed Implementation

[0053] exist Figure 1 and 2A first embodiment of circuit breaker 10 is shown. Circuit breaker 10 is configured to establish or interrupt an electrical connection between a first electrical contact 11 and a second electrical contact 12. For this purpose, the two electrical contacts 11, 12 can be moved relative to each other along a direction of movement D. The relative movement along the direction of movement D is preferably linear, as is the case in the preferred embodiment shown. In a modified embodiment not shown, the relative movement of the two electrical contacts 11, 12 can also be a pivotal movement.

[0054] According to the example, two electrical contacts 11, 12 are arranged inside the circuit breaker housing 13. The circuit breaker housing 13 is shown only in a highly schematic manner. The interior of the circuit breaker housing 13 may be hermetically tight relative to the environment to provide a gaseous environment for interruption gas within the circuit breaker housing 13.

[0055] The first electrical contact 11 has an outer contact surface 14, and the second electrical contact 12 has an inner contact surface 15. The first contact surface 14 and the second contact surface 15 are configured to cooperate with each other for establishing mechanical and electrical contact between the first electrical contact 11 and the second electrical contact 12 when both electrical contacts 11 and 12 are in the contact position CP. The contact position CP is... Figure 1 As shown in the figure. At the contact position CP, the inner contact surface 15 and the outer contact surface 14 are in mechanical contact to establish an electrical connection between the first electrical contact 11 and the second electrical contact 12.

[0056] As from Figure 1 and 2 It is evident that the first electrical contact 11 extends along the first central axis C1, and the second electrical contact 12 extends along the second central axis C2. The two central axes C1 and C2 are aligned and coincide at the contact position CP. The central axes C1 and C2 are oriented parallel to the direction of movement D.

[0057] The inner contact surface 15 is arranged coaxially around the second central axis C2 and faces the second central axis C2. Preferably, the inner contact surface 15 of the second electrical contact 12 is divided into at least two inner contact surface segments 15a, which together form the inner contact surface 15. The inner contact surface segments 15a may be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction around the second central axis C2; for example, two or more inner contact surface segments 15a may be evenly distributed in the circumferential direction. Each inner contact surface segment 15a may be dome-shaped facing the second central axis C2 and / or may be convex when viewed from the second central axis C2.

[0058] The outer contact surface 14 is arranged coaxially around the first central axis C1 and faces away from the first central axis C1. It may be continuous in the circumferential direction around the first central axis C1, for example, it may be annular. The outer contact surface 14 may have the shape of a cylindrical or conical circumferential surface.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the first electrical contact 11 is implemented as a male contact, particularly a pin 20. The second electrical contact 12 is configured to cooperate with the pin 20 such that, at the contact position CP, the inner contact surface 15 of the second electrical contact 12 surrounds at least a portion of the pin 20 and abuts against a designated outer contact surface 15 of the pin 20.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the second electrical contact 12 is implemented as a female contact, which may form a sleeve or socket 21. Note that the socket 21 is shown only schematically in the figures and may include two or more resiliently deflectable contact elements 22 that can be resiliently deflected from the second central axis C2 when the pin 20 is inserted into the socket 21. Each contact element 22 may have an inner contact surface segment 15a. In the illustrated embodiment, two contact elements 22 are shown by way of example, which may be arranged opposite each other about the second central axis C2. Alternatively, more than two contact elements 22 may be arranged about the second central axis C2.

[0061] The two electrical contacts 11 and 12 can be in contact position CP along the moving direction D. Figure 1 )and Figure 2 The blocking positions BP shown are moved relative to each other. In the blocking position BP, the first electrical contact 11 and the second electrical contact 12 are arranged at a distance from each other so that the electrical connection between the first electrical contact 11 and the second electrical contact 12 is interrupted or can be interrupted, and will not be unexpectedly re-established, particularly when a predetermined potential difference occurs between the first electrical contact 11 and the second electrical contact 12. The distance between the first electrical contact 11 and the second electrical contact 12 in the blocking position BP can also be expressed as an insulation distance.

[0062] Relative movement between the two electrical contacts 11 and 12 along the direction of movement D can be achieved, wherein only one of the two electrical contacts 11 and 12 moves relative to the circuit breaker housing 13, or both electrical contacts 11 and 12 move relative to the circuit breaker housing 13. In the latter case, it is preferable that the two electrical contacts 11 and 12 move in opposite directions, i.e., away from each other, to interrupt the electrical connection (towards the blocking position BP), or move toward each other (in the direction toward the contact position CP) to establish the electrical connection.

[0063] When an electrical connection is interrupted by moving electrical contacts 11 and 12 away from each other and out of contact position CP, an electrical arc may occur while the two electrical contacts 11 and 12 are still positioned close to each other, particularly before reaching the blocking position BP. Such electrical arcing is undesirable because, although the electrical connection should be interrupted, the arcing still allows electrical current to flow between the two electrical contacts 11 and 12. Furthermore, the electrical arcing stresses the electrical contacts 11 and 12 and causes wear, which in turn can shorten the life of the circuit breaker 10. For this reason, it is desirable to resist arcing and terminate any potential electrical arcing as quickly as possible.

[0064] To cool the first electrical contact 11 in the region of its outer contact surface 14 and / or its distal end 16 (where arcing may occur), at least one gas flow opening 24 is provided in the region of the distal end 16 of the first electrical contact 11 or pin 20. The number of gas flow openings 24 may vary and may be determined depending on the application and configuration of the circuit breaker 10. A large number of gas flow openings 24 may be provided (in a nozzle-like manner). However, a single gas flow opening 24 is sufficient.

[0065] At least one gas flow opening 24 may include a central opening 25 through which a first central axis C1 extends. Alternatively or additionally, at least one gas flow opening may include at least one offset opening 26 disposed offset relative to the first central axis C1. The central opening 25 may have an opening axis A disposed parallel to or coincident with the first central axis C1. The at least one offset opening 26 may correspondingly have an opening axis A inclined relative to the first central axis C1. The opening axis A of each gas flow opening 24 defines a primary or central direction along which the gas flow exits or enters the respective gas flow opening 24.

[0066] An internal hollow space 27 is provided inside the first electrical contact 11 or pin 20, and at least one gas flow opening 24 leads to the internal hollow space 27. This means that a fluid connection is provided between the internal hollow space 27 and each of the at least one gas flow opening 24. The internal hollow space 27 may include one or more channels extending inside the first electrical contact 11 or pin 20, as illustrated in the example below. Figure 1 and 2 As shown in the embodiments. Alternatively or additionally, the internal hollow space 27 may include at least one chamber inside the first electrical contact 11 or pin 20, such as, for example, according to Figures 4 to 7The embodiment shown is described in more detail below. It should be noted that a combination of at least one channel and at least one chamber may be provided in the first electrical contact 11 to form an internal hollow space 27. For example, at least one channel may fluidly connect the inner chamber of the first electrical contact 11 to at least one gas flow opening 24.

[0067] The size and shape of at least one chamber and / or at least one passage can be arbitrarily defined. For example, at least one passage can be straight, angled, or curved. Multiple fluidly connected passages can be provided, intersecting each other or leading to a common chamber of the internal hollow space 27. In this respect, many modifications to the design of the internal hollow space 27 are possible.

[0068] The circuit breaker 10 includes a gas flow generating device 30. The gas flow generating device 30 is configured to generate a gas flow, at least temporarily, during separation movement between a first electrical contact 11 and a second electrical contact 12 in a direction toward the blocking position BP, away from the contact position CP. The gas flow may be generated in a flow direction that exits from or enters at least one gas flow opening 24 from the internal hollow space 27, or conversely, enters at least one gas flow opening 24 and further downstream into the internal hollow space 27. A flow direction may be established whereby the gas flow generating device 30 generates pressure within the internal hollow space 27 that is higher or lower than the pressure of the gas filling the first electrical contact 11 or pin 20 within the circuit breaker housing 13. Figure 2 and 3 The alternative gas flow direction is schematically shown in the diagram. The gas flow G is schematically indicated by the height of the dashed arrow. To generate the gas flow G, the gas flow generating device 30 is fluidly connected to the internal hollow space 27.

[0069] According to Figure 1 and 2 In a preferred embodiment, the gas flow generating device 30 includes at least one gas compartment 28, 29. A first gas compartment may be assigned to a first electrical contact 11, and / or a second gas compartment 29 may be assigned to a second electrical contact 12. The two gas compartments 28, 29 may have different volumes and / or different configurations.

[0070] In any embodiment, at least one of the gas compartments 28, 29 may limit a constant volume, and there are no movable pressure increasing and / or decreasing components (in particular, no pistons) within the respective gas compartments 28, 29.

[0071] In any embodiment, at least one of the gas compartments 28, 29 may be subdivided into at least two separate compartment sections, which can be fluidly separated and / or connected by means of valves.

[0072] In any embodiment, at least one of the gas compartments 28, 29 may be provided with a pressure limiting device 35, such as a spring-loaded pressure limiting valve 36 or any suitable overpressure valve.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, the first compartment 28 is fluidly connected (and preferably exclusively fluidly connected) to the internal hollow space 27. The gas in the first compartment 28 is the same gas present inside the circuit breaker housing 13. The volume of the first compartment 28 is small compared to the volume of the gas present inside the circuit breaker housing 13 but outside the first compartment 28 (the gas filling outside the first compartment 28).

[0074] Inside the first compartment 28, there are no moving parts (such as pistons) necessary or provided for generating gas flow. When the circuit breaker 10 is in the contact position CP, the first compartment 28 is filled with gas.

[0075] In the Figure 1 and 2 In the modification of the above figure, the first compartment 28 may also be located inside the first electrical contact 11 or pin 20, and may advantageously be at least a portion of the internal hollow space 27.

[0076] In all embodiments using a gas compartment 29 that does not have any moving parts (e.g., pistons) disposed therein, the gas flow is exclusively generated by the increased pressure inside the circuit breaker housing 13 when an electrical arc occurs between the electrical contacts 11, 12. Specifically, the temperature of the gas filling rises due to the electrical arc, which in turn increases the pressure of the gas filling inside the circuit breaker housing 13.

[0077] The increased temperature caused by the electric arc also increases the gas temperature inside the first compartment 28, causing the pressure inside the first compartment 28 to exceed the pressure outside the first compartment 28 but inside the circuit breaker housing. Therefore, the resulting gas flow G exits the first compartment 28, heading towards and exiting at least one gas flow opening 24. Thus, no additional driving mechanism is necessary, and no energy is required to generate the gas flow G. In this embodiment, the energy required to generate the gas flow G is exclusively provided by the electric arc as described above.

[0078] For example Figure 2 and 3 As shown, as an option, the gas flow generating device 30 can be configured to generate an additional gas flow toward the first electrical contact 11 or pin 20, particularly inside the socket 21.

[0079] The embodiments of the circuit breaker 10 described to date operate as follows: Assuming electrical contacts 11 and 12 are in the following condition... Figure 1The contact position CP is shown in the diagram. An electrical connection is established between the two electrical contacts 11 and 12, and electrical current can flow from the first electrical contact 11 to the second electrical contact 12, or vice versa. At the contact position CP, the two electrical contacts 11 and 12 have substantially equal potentials.

[0080] If the electrical connection should be interrupted (e.g., circuit breaker 10 trips), the electrical contacts 11 and 12 move out of the contact position CP along the direction of movement D toward the blocking position BP. At least temporarily or preferably throughout the relative movement, the gas flow generating device 30 generates a gas flow G through the first electrical contact 11 or pin 20, exiting from or entering the internal hollow space 27 through at least one gas flow opening 24. Thus, the first electrical contact 11 (here: pin 20) is particularly cooled in the region of its distal end 16 arranged close to the second electrical contact 12. The gas flow G inside the first electrical contact 11 and the gas flow G exiting or entering the gas flow opening 24 effectively cool not only the first electrical contact 11 but also effectively cool any potential electrical arc between the first electrical contact 11 and the second electrical contact 12. Even if an electrical arc is generated during the interruption of the electrical connection, it is thus effectively cooled and quickly extinguished.

[0081] When the first electrical contact 11 and the second electrical contact 12 are in the blocking position BP, the electrical arc is extinguished. In the blocking position BP, the distance between the two electrical contacts 11 and 12 is sufficient to prevent an electrical arc from forming between the two electrical contacts 11 and 12.

[0082] The gas flow generating device 30 can be implemented in different ways. A preferred possibility is that the first compartment 28 is configured to be directly or indirectly fluidly connected to at least one gas flow opening 24, as already referred to above. Figure 1 and 2 Explanation. Alternatively, the gas flow generating device 30 may use any known device for generating overpressure or underpressure in the internal hollow space 27, such as a pressurizing device, which may be actuated if a gas flow G exiting at least one gas flow opening 24 is required, or a suction unit, which may be actuated if a gas flow G entering at least one gas flow opening and flowing further downstream into the internal hollow space 27 is required.

[0083] In at least one of the embodiments, the gas flow generating device 30 may be configured to generate a gas flow G by means of the movement of the piston 31. Figures 5 to 8For this purpose, piston 31 is arranged inside cylinder chamber 32. Cylinder chamber 32 is surrounded by cylinder chamber wall 33 to make sliding contact with the periphery of piston 31. Piston 31 and cylinder chamber wall 33 are configured to slide relative to each other, thereby allowing piston 31 and / or cylinder chamber wall 33 to move relative to circuit breaker housing 13. In a preferred embodiment, the direction of relative movement between piston 31 and cylinder chamber wall 33 is parallel to the direction of movement D. However, in a modified embodiment (not shown), the relative movement between piston 31 and cylinder chamber wall 33 may also have an orientation different from the direction of movement D.

[0084] like Figures 5 to 7 As schematically shown, the cylinder chamber 32 may be disposed inside the first electrical contact 11 or pin 20, and may be specifically formed by at least one section of the internal hollow space 27. Alternatively, a separate cylinder housing 34 may be provided to confine the cylinder chamber 32. Figure 8 The cylinder housing 34 is preferably attached to the first electrical contact 11, and more preferably attached in such a way that the first electrical contact 11 and the cylinder housing 34 cannot move relative to each other, and can be arranged to be fixed relative to the circuit breaker housing 13, or can form a common unit that is movably arranged relative to the circuit breaker housing 13.

[0085] In all embodiments, the contact portions or contact surfaces of the cylinder wall 33 and / or piston 31 may include layers or may be made of a low-friction material.

[0086] To generate the gas flow G, movement of the piston 31 within the cylinder chamber 32 is required. This movement can be generated using a coupling arrangement 39. The coupling arrangement 39 is configured to provide a mechanical connection between at least two movable members, wherein, in any of the disclosed embodiments, the movable members are selected from the group consisting of a first electrical contact 11, a second electrical contact 12, and movable members of the gas flow generating device 30, preferably, according to an example, the piston 31 and / or the cylinder chamber wall 33 and / or the cylinder housing 34.

[0087] Please note that in some embodiments that generate a gas flow G exiting at least one gas flow opening 24, the movement of the piston 31 may also be supported by increased gas pressure inside the circuit breaker housing 13 due to the generation of an electric arc.

[0088] exist Figures 4 to 8 An example of the connection arrangement 39 is shown in a highly schematic manner. In a preferred embodiment, the connection arrangement 39 includes a lever 40 having a first arm 41 and a second arm 42. The lever 40 is pivotally supported by means of a pivot 43. The first arm 41 and the second arm 42 extend from the pivot 43 in different directions, for example, in opposite directions. The pivot 43 is fixed relative to the circuit breaker housing 13. The first arm 41 of the lever 40 is connected to a first electrical contact 11, while the second arm 42 is connected to a second electrical contact 12.

[0089] exist Figure 4 and 5 In the embodiment shown, the piston 31 is arranged to be fixed relative to the pivot 43, and therefore fixed relative to the circuit breaker housing 13.

[0090] In a preferred embodiment, due to the connection arrangement 39, if one of the electrical contacts moves along the direction of movement D, the first electrical contact 11 and the second electrical contact 12 always move in opposite directions to each other. In an embodiment with a fixed piston 31, if the second electrical contact 12 moves along the direction of movement D, the cylinder wall 33 moves together with the first electrical contact 11, and therefore moves relative to the piston 31. If the electrical contacts 11, 12 move toward the contact position CP ( Figure 4 The movement of piston 31 relative to the first electrical contact 11 and cylinder wall 33 generates a gas flow, which enters the internal hollow space 27 through at least one gas flow opening 24, while the electrical contacts 11 and 12 move in opposite directions toward the blocking position BP. Figure 5 A gas flow G is generated, which exits the internal hollow space 27 and exits at least one gas flow opening 24.

[0091] According to Figure 4 , 5 In the modifications to embodiments 8 and 8, in Figure 6 and 7 In the embodiment shown, piston 31 is movably arranged relative to pivot 43, and therefore relative to circuit breaker housing 13. For this purpose, piston 31 is connected to at least one of electrical contacts 11, 12 by means of coupling arrangement 39, and in this example, coupling arrangement 39 connects all three movable components (i.e., first electrical contact 11, second electrical contact 12 and piston 31) to each other.

[0092] exist Figure 6 In the embodiment shown, piston 31 is connected to the second arm 42 of lever 40 so that piston 31 moves in the same direction as the second electrical contact 12. Therefore, piston 31 always moves opposite to the first electrical contact 11, and thus opposite to the cylinder wall 33.

[0093] exist Figure 7In the embodiment shown, piston 31 is connected to the first arm 41 of lever 40 so that the first electrical contact 11 and piston 31 move in the same direction. To ensure relative movement between piston 31 and cylinder wall 33, the connection points of piston 31 and the first electrical contact 11 with the first arm 41 must be arranged at a distance from each other on the first arm 41. The greater the distance of the connection point from pivot 43, the longer the path traveled by the corresponding connected member 31 or 11 when lever 40 pivots about pivot 43. Figure 7 In the example shown, the travel path of piston 31 is longer than the travel path of first electrical contact 11. If desired, the connection position of piston 31 and lever 40 can also be set between pivot 43 and the connection position of first electrical contact and first arm 41, so that the travel path of piston 31 in the direction of movement D is shorter than the travel path of first electrical contact 11.

[0094] Figure 9 An embodiment of circuit breaker 10 is illustrated schematically, with further details of its specific implementation shown. According to Figure 9 The features disclosed in the embodiments can be used in any other embodiments of the invention.

[0095] As shown, the first gas compartment 28 restricts a constant gas volume and does not accommodate movable or displaceable components, such as pistons, for increasing or decreasing the volume. A pressure limiting device 35 is allocated to the first gas compartment 28 to limit the pressure inside the first gas compartment 28. The pressure limiting device 35 may include a pressure limiting valve 36. The pressure limiting valve 36 may be spring-loaded and may open a gas path from the first gas compartment 28 into the volume of the circuit breaker housing 13 if the pressure inside the first gas compartment 28 exceeds a pressure threshold. Such a pressure limiting device 35 may be provided in any embodiment of the invention.

[0096] Another optional feature that may be included in any embodiment of the invention is the construction of the internal hollow space 27. This can be implemented as a channel fluidly connecting the first gas compartment 28 to at least one gas flow opening 24, wherein the channel has sections with different cross-sectional areas, particularly sections with different diameters when the cross-section is circular. Figure 9 As shown, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first channel section adjacent to the gas flow opening 24 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the channel section adjacent to the first gas compartment 28. Figure 9 The diagram shows two channel segments with different cross-sectional areas. Generally, two or more channel segments with different cross-sectional areas can be provided.

[0097] In a modification to the illustrated embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the channel or hollow space 27 may be as follows: Figure 9The interior space varies in a stepped manner, or alternatively, or otherwise in a non-stepped manner, such as a continuous manner. For example, the internal hollow space 27 may preferably be tapered by providing at least one conical section, particularly a conical channel section.

[0098] In all embodiments, it may be advantageous for the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal hollow space 27 to decrease in one or more steps or continuously along the direction toward the gas flow opening.

[0099] The circuit breaker 10 may include at least one external portion 44 that at least partially surrounds the first electrical contact 11 and / or the second electrical contact 12 and restricts a fluid path between the two electrical contacts 11, 12. The at least one external portion 44 provides a section of the fluid path with a reduced cross-sectional area compared to other sections of the gas flow path, thereby forming a nozzle 45. Such a nozzle may be provided in any embodiment of the invention.

[0100] Figure 9 Another alternative configuration depicted relates to a second gas compartment 29. The second gas compartment 29 is divided into at least two compartment sections, and specifically, into a first compartment section 29a and a second compartment section 29b. The two compartment sections may be fluidly connected to or fluidly separated from each other by means of a valve unit 46.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, if the pressure in the first compartment section 29a is below a predetermined pressure threshold, the valve unit 46 establishes a fluid connection between the two compartments 29a, 29b. However, if the pressure in the first compartment section 29a reaches or exceeds the predetermined pressure threshold, the fluid connection between the two compartment sections 29a, 29b is interrupted or blocked. This means that, when the pressure is below the pressure threshold, gas G can flow from the second compartment section 29b to the first compartment section 29a, and from there downstream toward a region where arcing can occur between the first electrical contact 11 and the second electrical contact 12 (in... Figure 9 (Illustrated schematically by means of dashed arrows). In this configuration, piston arrangement 47 can be used to generate the required pressure in the second compartment section 29b. If necessary or advantageous, pressure limiting device 35, in particular pressure limiting valve 36, can be provided in the second compartment section 29b, similar to the pressure limiting device 35 described above with respect to the first gas compartment 28.

[0102] Generally, the gas compartment in any embodiment can be similar to Figure 9 The second gas compartment 29 is constructed as described in the text.

[0103] This invention relates to a circuit breaker 10, comprising a first electrical contact 11 and a second electrical contact 12, which are movably arranged relative to each other along a direction of movement D. Preferably, the first electrical contact 11 is a pin 20, and the second electrical contact 12 is a socket 21. At the contact position CP, the outer contact surface 14 of the first electrical contact 11 is in mechanical and electrical contact with the inner contact surface 15 of the second electrical contact 12. An internal hollow space 27 is provided inside the first electrical contact 11, which is fluidly connected to at least one gas flow opening 24 provided in a region of the distal end 16 of the first electrical contact 11. The internal hollow space 27 is fluidly connected to a gas flow generating device 30. During relative movement of the first electrical contact 11 and the second electrical contact 12 along the direction of movement D, a gas flow G can be generated through the internal hollow space 27 and at least one gas flow opening 24 to cool at least the distal end 16 of the first electrical contact 11 to avoid the generation of an electrical arc between the two electrical contacts 11, 12, or at least to terminate the electrical arc as quickly as possible.

[0104] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 10 circuit breakers 11 First electrical contact 12 Second electrical contact 13 Circuit Breaker Housing 14 External contact surfaces 15 Inner Contact Surface 15a inner contact surface section 16 The distal end of the first electrical contact 20 sales 21 sockets 22 Contact Elements 24 gas flow openings 25 center opening 26 offset opening 27. Internal hollow space 28 First Gas Compartment 29 Second Gas Compartment 29a First Compartment Section 29b Second compartment section 30 Gas flow generating device 31 Piston 32-cylinder chamber 33 cylinder chamber wall 34 cylinder housing 36 Pressure relief valve 39 Connection Arrangement 40 leverage 41 First Arm 42 Second Arm 43 Pivots 44 External Parts 45 nozzles 46 valve units 47 Piston Arrangement OA Open Axis C1 First Central Axis C2 Second Central Axis BP blocking position CP contact position D Movement direction G gas flow.

Claims

1. A circuit breaker (10) comprising a first electrical contact (11) having an outer contact surface (14), a second electrical contact (12) having an inner contact surface (15), and a gas flow generating device (30), The first electrical contact (11) and the second electrical contact (12) are movably supported relative to each other along the moving direction (D) between the contact position (CP) and the blocking position (BP). At the contact position (CP), the inner contact surface (15) of the second electrical contact (12) contacts the outer contact surface (14) of the first electrical contact (11). At the blocking position (BP), the inner contact surface (15) of the second electrical contact (12) and the outer contact surface (14) of the first electrical contact (11) are arranged at a distance from each other. Its features are, The first electrical contact (11) includes an internal hollow space (27) and at least one gas flow opening (24), the at least one gas flow opening (24) being disposed at the distal end (16) of the first electrical contact (11) and opening to the internal hollow space (27), and the gas flow generating device (30) being fluidly connected to the at least one gas flow opening (24) via the internal hollow space (27).

2. The circuit breaker according to claim 1, wherein, The gas flow generating device (30) includes at least one gas compartment (28, 29).

3. The circuit breaker according to claim 2, wherein, A gas compartment (28) is fluidly connected to or is a portion of the hollow space (27), and wherein the gas compartment (29) is preferably exclusively fluidly connected to the at least one gas flow opening (24).

4. The circuit breaker according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, At least one of the gas compartments (28, 29) has a limited constant volume, and preferably does not include a movable volume-changing component.

5. The circuit breaker according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first electrical contact (11) is a pin (20).

6. The circuit breaker according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The second electrical contact (12) is a socket (21).

7. The circuit breaker according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first electrical contact (11) extends along a first central axis (C1), and the second electrical contact (12) extends along a second central axis (C2), wherein the first central axis (C1) and the second central axis (C2) are oriented parallel to the direction of movement (D).

8. The circuit breaker according to claim 7, wherein, The at least one gas flow opening (24) includes a central opening (25), through which the first central axis (C1) extends.

9. The circuit breaker according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, The at least one gas flow opening (24) includes at least one offset opening (26) arranged at a distance from the first central axis (C1).

10. The circuit breaker according to claim 9, wherein, The orientation of the opening axis (OA) of the at least one offset opening (26) is inclined relative to the first central axis (C1).

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