Contact device for counteracting lifting

Abstract

The invention relates to a contact device having a proximal fixed contact device with a proximal fixed contact section, having a distal fixed contact device with a distal fixed contact section, having a contact bridge which can be moved in a switching direction from an open position into a closed position, and wherein the proximal fixed contact device has a proximal base, the proximal fixed contact section protrudes from the proximal base in the direction of the distal base, and the distal fixed contact section protrudes from the distal base in the direction of the proximal base, and wherein the contact bridge is arranged at a height in the switching direction at least in the closed position, the height is between the height of the proximal base in the switching direction and the height of the proximal fixed contact section in the switching direction and between the height of the distal base in the switching direction and the height of the distal fixed contact section in the switching direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to contact devices for switching devices such as relays or contactors, and switching devices having such contact devices, particularly for electric vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] Electrical switching devices, such as relays or contactors, are used to switch current. Switching devices typically have a contact bridge, which is used to open or close the circuit. When closed, the contact bridge is in contact with the stationary contact, and when open, the contact bridge is spaced apart from the stationary contact.

[0003] In the field of electric vehicles, for example during charging or in the powertrain, very high currents of 27kA or more can occur under short-circuit conditions. This high current generates a repulsive force that pushes the contact bridge away from the stationary contact. When the contact bridge is pushed away from the stationary contact, an electric arc may occur, which could damage or even destroy the switching device. Therefore, the contact bridge should remain in contact with the stationary contact, at least until the fuse in the circuit trips. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that satisfies the above requirements.

[0005] This objective is achieved by a contact device for switching devices such as relays or contactors, the contact device having: a proximal fixed contact device having a proximal fixed contact section, a distal fixed contact device having a distal fixed contact section, and a contact bridge movable in the switching direction from an open position to a closed position, which contacts and electrically connects the proximal and distal fixed contact sections to each other in the closed position, and is spaced apart from the proximal and distal fixed contact sections in the open position, wherein the proximal fixed contact device has a proximal fixed contact section... The device has a distal base, wherein a proximal fixed contact section protrudes from the proximal base in the direction of the distal base, and a distal fixed contact section protrudes from the distal base in the direction of the proximal base, and wherein the contact bridge is arranged at least in the closed position at a height in the switching direction, the height being between the height of the proximal base in the switching direction and the height of the proximal fixed contact section in the switching direction, and also between the height of the distal base in the switching direction and the height of the distal fixed contact section in the switching direction.

[0006] When current flows through the aforementioned contact assembly during operation, a strong electromagnetic force is generated, particularly in the base region. Since the contact bridge is arranged between the base and the fixed contact section in the switching direction, at least in its closed position, these electromagnetic forces press the contact bridge against the fixed contact section. This makes it more difficult for the contact bridge to be lifted from the fixed contact section and reduces the risk of arcing.

[0007] The invention can be further improved by the following features, each of which is advantageous in itself and can be combined with each other as needed.

[0008] The near and far bases can each be designed to connect to current conductors, such as busbars, terminals, contact bolts, contact pins, or electrical plugs.

[0009] According to an advantageous embodiment, the proximal base and the distal base can be opposite each other in a reference direction, wherein the switching contacts of the contact bridge are spaced apart in a direction perpendicular to the switching direction and extending at an angle to the reference direction. This contact arrangement is particularly compact in the reference direction.

[0010] When the angle with respect to the reference direction is 90°, a particularly compact contact arrangement exists in the reference direction. Of course, according to other embodiments, the contact bridge can also extend at different angles, for example, at an angle of approximately 45° with respect to the reference direction.

[0011] The switching contact of the contact bridge can be designed to abut against either the near-end fixed contact section or the far-end fixed contact section in the closed position. In particular, the contact bridge can contact either the near-end fixed contact section or the far-end fixed contact section only through the switching contact of the contact bridge in the closed position.

[0012] The direction in which the switching contacts of the contact bridge are spaced apart from each other can correspond to the longitudinal direction of the contact bridge.

[0013] The contact assembly is particularly compact in the reference direction if the proximal fixed contact section and the distal fixed contact section are at least partially adjacent to each other in the direction in which they are spaced apart from each other relative to the switching contacts of the contact bridge, and in particular at least partially overlap.

[0014] The longitudinal axis of the proximal base and / or distal base may extend along the direction in which the switching contacts of the contact bridge are spaced apart from each other and / or along the longitudinal axis of the contact bridge.

[0015] The width of the proximal base, measured in the width direction, can be greater than the width of the proximal fixed contact section, measured in the width direction. Similarly, the width of the distal base, measured in the width direction, can be greater than the width of the distal fixed contact section, measured in the width direction. The width direction extends perpendicular to the switching direction and perpendicular to the reference direction. In these embodiments, the electromagnetic force that counteracts the lifting of the contact bridge during operation is particularly large.

[0016] According to another advantageous embodiment, the proximal fixed contact device may have another proximal fixed contact section, and the distal fixed contact device may have another distal fixed contact section, wherein the proximal fixed contact section is connected to the other proximal fixed contact section via a proximal base, and wherein the distal fixed contact section is connected to the other distal fixed contact section. The contact device may include another contact bridge that is movable in a switching direction from another open position to another closed position, which contacts and electrically connects the other proximal and the other distal fixed contact sections in the other closed position, and is spaced apart from the other proximal and the other distal fixed contact sections in the other open position. The other contact bridge is arranged at a height in the switching direction at least in the other closed position, the height being between the height in the switching direction of the proximal base and the height in the switching direction of the other proximal fixed contact section, and also between the height in the switching direction of the distal base and the height in the switching direction of the other distal fixed contact section.

[0017] If the aforementioned contact device is integrated into the circuit during operation, the current to be switched at the near and far bases is divided into two parallel current paths, specifically halved. Thus, a lower current flows in each of the two current paths, reducing the risk of surge in the event of a short circuit. This can at least partially prevent the formation of an electric arc and therefore prevent damage to the contact device.

[0018] The above statement relating the height of the contact bridge in the switching direction to the height of the base and the fixed contact section in the switching direction can also be applied to a contact bridge in the open position and another contact bridge in another open position.

[0019] Preferably, the height of the contact bridge is understood as the height of the center plane of the contact bridge, and the height of the other contact bridge is understood as the height of the center plane of the other contact bridge. The height of the proximal base can refer to the height of the side of the proximal base facing one or more contact bridges, and the height of the distal base can refer to the height of the side of the distal base facing one or more contact bridges. The height of the fixed contact section can be understood as the height of the side of the fixed contact section facing one or more contact bridges.

[0020] Preferably, the proximal and distal bases, particularly the planes spanned by the proximal and distal bases, extend parallel to each other or lie in a common base plane. In an advantageous embodiment, the proximal base, particularly the plane spanned by the proximal base, extends parallel to the proximal fixed contact section and / or another proximal fixed contact section and / or parallel to the contact bridge and / or another contact bridge. The distal base, particularly the plane spanned by the distal base, preferably extends parallel to the distal fixed contact section and / or another distal fixed contact section and / or parallel to the contact bridge and / or another contact bridge.

[0021] According to an advantageous embodiment, the proximal fixed contact segment may be spaced apart from the proximal base by a first proximal offset, the distal fixed contact segment may be spaced apart from the distal base by a first distal offset, and / or another proximal fixed contact segment may be spaced apart from the proximal base by a second proximal offset, and another distal fixed contact segment may be spaced apart from the distal base by a second distal offset. In this embodiment, the offset between the base and the fixed contact segment creates a space in the switching direction, within which the contact bridge can be accommodated, making the contact device particularly compact.

[0022] When this document generally refers to "contact bridge," it can mean the aforementioned contact bridge or another contact bridge; "fixed contact assembly" can refer to a proximal or distal fixed contact assembly, and "base" can refer to a proximal or distal base. Similarly, "fixed contact section" can refer to a proximal fixed contact section or another proximal fixed contact section, or a distal fixed contact section or another distal fixed contact section. Likewise, "offset" can refer to a first or second proximal offset or a first or second distal offset.

[0023] The offset can be between approximately two and approximately three times the thickness of the contact bridge and / or the fixed contact section or base measured in the switching direction. In one embodiment, the offset is between approximately 3 mm and approximately 5 mm. The term "approximately" can refer to an approximately 10% deviation.

[0024] The offset in the switching direction between the base and the fixed contact section can be measured between the side of the fixed contact section facing the contact bridge and the side of the base facing the contact bridge. Alternatively, the offset in the switching direction between the base and the fixed contact section can be measured between the side of the fixed contact section facing the contact bridge and the side of the base away from the contact bridge.

[0025] In one embodiment, the first proximal offset and the first distal offset can be the same, and the second proximal offset and the second distal offset can be the same, and the first proximal offset and the first distal offset can be different from the second proximal offset and the second distal offset. In this way, the contact bridge can contact the proximal and distal fixed contact sections earlier or later than another contact bridge can contact another proximal and distal fixed contact section. Therefore, the contact bridge can switch quickly and continuously, which is particularly advantageous when switching high currents.

[0026] If the proximal base and distal base in the above design are located in the same plane, the contact bridge in the closed position can be spaced apart from another contact bridge in the other closed position in the switching direction.

[0027] In designs that are particularly easy to construct and manufacture, all offsets, namely the first proximal offset and the first distal offset, as well as the second proximal offset and the second distal offset, can be the same.

[0028] In a particularly cost-effective design of the contact assembly, the proximal fixed contact assembly can be the same as the distal fixed contact assembly.

[0029] The proximal and distal fixed contact devices can be opposite each other in a reference direction, which is preferably perpendicular to the switching direction and extends along the longitudinal axis of the contact bridge. Specifically, the first proximal fixed contact section can be opposite the first distal fixed contact section in the reference direction. Similarly, the second proximal fixed contact section can be opposite the second distal fixed contact section in the reference direction.

[0030] The contact bridge may have at least two spaced-apart switching contacts configured to contact the fixed contact section. The direction along which the switching contacts are spaced may extend along the longitudinal axis of the contact bridge in which the switching contacts are provided. Alternatively or cumulatively, the fixed contact device may have switching contacts in its fixed contact section, which are designed to be contacted by the contact bridge, particularly by the switching contacts of the contact bridge.

[0031] When the proximal and / or distal bases have at least one flat side pointing in the switching direction, a contact device is obtained in which other elements, such as current conductors, can be easily installed. Preferably, both bases, namely the proximal base and the distal base, have at least one such flat side. Preferably, each of the two bases has two flat sides facing each other in the switching direction.

[0032] The base can be essentially rectangular, with its bottom and top surfaces corresponding to the flat sides. The distance between the bottom and top surfaces of the rectangular prism can be measured along the switching direction.

[0033] The normal axis of the flat side of the cuboid, or the normal axis of the bottom and top surfaces, can point in different directions.

[0034] In order to facilitate the integration of the contact device into the circuit, the proximal base may have at least one connection device for receiving and / or securing at least one current conductor, and / or the distal base may have at least one connection device for receiving and / or securing at least one current conductor.

[0035] The connecting device may have at least one opening, particularly a through opening. The longitudinal axis of the opening preferably extends in or perpendicular to the switching direction. The opening may be designed to accommodate at least one connecting element, such as a screw or bolt, and / or at least partially accommodate a current conductor.

[0036] The connecting device, in particular the opening, may be arranged at least partially between the proximal and distal fixed contact sections or between another proximal and another distal fixed contact section.

[0037] If the proximal base and the distal base each have connecting devices, these connecting devices can be opposite each other relative to the reference direction.

[0038] According to another advantageous embodiment, at least one connecting device may include a connecting tab configured to connect to at least one current conductor. Even in complex, particularly constrained, installation situations, such a contact device can be easily accessed via the connecting tab for the current conductor.

[0039] Preferably, the connecting means of the two bases (i.e., the proximal base and the distal base) each have at least one connecting tab. Furthermore, at least one base may have multiple connecting tabs, such as two, three, or five connecting tabs. The connecting tabs may be arranged on the same or different sides of the respective bases. In one embodiment, all the connecting tabs of the base may be arranged on the same side of the base. Preferably, all the connecting tabs of the base, and more preferably, all the connecting tabs of the two bases, extend parallel to each other. In particular, the longitudinal axes of the connecting tabs of the base, and preferably all the longitudinal axes of the connecting tabs of the two bases, may extend parallel to each other.

[0040] At least one connecting tab of the base may be tilted relative to the rest of the base at an angle of about 45° to about 90°.

[0041] At least one opening in the base can be arranged in the connecting tab of the base.

[0042] In order to make the contact device compact in a direction perpendicular to the switching direction, according to another advantageous embodiment, the longitudinal axis of at least one connecting tab, in particular at least one connecting tab, can extend at least partially, preferably completely, along the switching direction.

[0043] According to another aspect, the contact device can be designed such that at least one connecting tab does not intersect with the planes spanned by the proximal fixed contact section and the distal fixed contact section, and / or the planes spanned by another proximal fixed contact section and another distal fixed contact section. In other words, at least one connecting tab may be spaced apart from the planes spanned by the proximal fixed contact section and the distal fixed contact section, particularly in the switching direction. By ensuring the distance between the connecting tab and the fixed contact section, arcing of the connecting tab, which could potentially damage current conductors connected to the connecting tab or other components, can be prevented. In another embodiment, at least one connecting tab may not intersect with the plane spanned by the contact bridge.

[0044] According to another advantageous embodiment, the contact device may have transition sections, wherein a proximal fixed contact section and another proximal fixed contact section are each connected to a proximal base via one of the transition sections, and / or wherein a distal fixed contact section and another distal fixed contact section are each connected to a distal base via one of the transition sections, wherein the transition sections extend substantially along the switching direction. When the contact bridges and / or the other contact bridge are each in their closed position, current flows through the contact device during operation, and therefore also through the transition sections. Because these extend substantially in the switching direction, an electromagnetic force is generated in the transition sections, pressing one or more contact bridge members against their respective fixed contact sections for contact. This improves electrical contact, particularly by preventing one or more contact bridges from lifting off the fixed contact sections.

[0045] In one embodiment, at least one of the transition segments may have an angle between about 0° and about 60°, particularly about 45°, relative to the switching direction.

[0046] At least one of the transition sections may have a curved shape, particularly an S-shape. Of course, the transition sections may also be designed differently and, for example, include at least one spacer, particularly consisting of multiple spacers.

[0047] Each transition section can be a fixed contact section or part of the base, especially an integral part.

[0048] According to another embodiment, the proximal and distal fixed contact sections can be formed together in a U-shape, and / or another proximal and another distal fixed contact section can be formed together in a U-shape. This design is easy to implement in terms of construction and manufacturing.

[0049] In a stable and easily assembled design of the contact assembly, at least one, but preferably two, fixed contact assemblies from a group of fixed contact assemblies including proximal and distal fixed contact assemblies can be integrally formed. Metal, particularly metal plate, can be used as the material.

[0050] In a cost-effective and easy-to-manufacture design, at least one, but preferably two, fixed contact devices from a group of fixed contact devices including proximal and distal fixed contact devices can be designed as stamped and bent components.

[0051] To prevent damage to the contact device caused by an electric arc generated during switching, the contact device may have a extinguishing device including at least one extinguishing magnet, wherein the extinguishing device is designed to generate at least one magnetic field for deflecting an electric arc generated in the open position or another open position.

[0052] According to another advantageous design, at least one blowing magnet of the extinguishing device can be arranged between the contact bridge and the other contact bridge. In this way, the arc can be deflected particularly effectively, while the contact assembly is compact.

[0053] The extinguishing device may include at least one stacked arc-separating blade designed to absorb the arc deflected by at least one extinguishing magnet.

[0054] The blow-out magnet can be understood as a device called "Ausblasmagnet" in German, and the arc-separating blades can correspond to the term "Lichtbogenspaltklingen" used in German.

[0055] This objective is also achieved by an electrical switching device having a contact assembly and a drive mechanism, the drive mechanism being designed to move one contact bridge from an open position to a closed position in the switching direction and / or move another contact bridge from another open position to another closed position in the switching direction. As explained above, one or more contact bridges of the contact assembly are pressed against fixed contacts during operation. This means that the drive mechanism only needs to apply a low closing force. This counteracts the lifting of one or more contact bridges, which reduces the risk of arcing. Furthermore, the drive mechanism is released, which reduces wear.

[0056] Preferably, the contact bridges move together via a drive mechanism. The contact bridges can be arranged at the same height relative to the switching direction, or they can be offset from each other in the switching direction.

[0057] The drive unit may have at least one drive rod, which is connected at least indirectly to at least one of the contact bridges in a manner that transmits motion. The at least one drive rod may be supported on at least one contact bridge, for example, by a spring.

[0058] The aforementioned contact device or switching device can be used, for example, in the field of electric vehicles. In particular, the contact device or switching device can be used in the drive and / or charging circuits of electric vehicles.

[0059] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. If the technical effect associated with a feature is irrelevant according to the above embodiments, the various features present in the following embodiments may be omitted. Conversely, if the technical effect associated with a feature is important for a particular application, the features described above but not appearing in subsequent embodiments may be added to the embodiments.

[0060] In the following text, the same reference numerals are used for elements that correspond to each other in terms of structure and / or function. Attached Figure Description

[0061] The attached diagram shows:

[0062] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a contact device according to one possible embodiment is shown;

[0063] Figure 2 It shows the closed position. Figure 1 A schematic perspective side view of the contact device;

[0064] Figure 3 It is shown in the open position. Figure 1 A schematic perspective side view of the contact device;

[0065] Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of a contact device according to another possible embodiment is shown;

[0066] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 A schematic perspective side view of the contact device;

[0067] Figure 6 A schematic perspective view of a contact device according to another possible embodiment is shown;

[0068] Figure 7 A schematic perspective view of a contact device according to yet another possible embodiment is shown;

[0069] Figure 8 A schematic perspective view of a contact device connected to a current conductor is shown;

[0070] Figure 9 A schematic perspective view of a switching device according to a possible embodiment is shown;

[0071] Figure 10 A schematic perspective view of a contact device according to another embodiment is shown;

[0072] Figure 11 A schematic perspective view of a contact device according to yet another embodiment is shown; and

[0073] Figure 12 A schematic perspective view of a contact device according to yet another embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0074] The following reference Figures 1 to 3 A contact device according to a possible embodiment is described.

[0075] The contact device 1 has a proximal fixed contact device 2, a distal fixed contact device 4, a contact bridge 6a, and another contact bridge 6b. The two contact bridges 6a and 6b are movable along the switching direction 8. Contact bridge 6a can move from an open position 10a to a closed position 10b, and the other contact bridge 6b can move from another open position 12a to another closed position 12b.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal fixed contact device 2 is opposite the distal fixed contact device 4 in a reference direction 11 extending perpendicular to the switching direction 8. However, the fixed contact devices 2 and 4 need not be identical, such as... Figure 1 As shown, and in particular, not all of them need to be designed as integral stamped and bent parts.

[0077] The proximal fixed contact device 2 has a proximal fixed contact section 2a and another proximal fixed contact section 2b, while the distal fixed contact device 4 includes a distal fixed contact section 4a and another distal fixed contact section 4b.

[0078] In the closed position 10b, contact bridge 6a rests on the proximal fixed contact section 2a and the distal fixed contact section 4a, and electrically connects the proximal fixed contact section 2a to the distal fixed contact section 4a. Another contact bridge 6b, in the other closed position 12b, contacts another proximal and another distal fixed contact sections 2b and 4b, and electrically connects the other proximal and another distal fixed contact sections 2b and 4b to each other. In the first open position 10a, contact bridge 6a is spaced apart from the proximal and distal fixed contact sections 2a and 4a in the switching direction 8. In the other open position 12a, another contact bridge 6b is spaced apart from the other proximal and another distal fixed contact sections 2b and 4b in the switching direction 8.

[0079] The proximal fixed contact section 2a and another proximal fixed contact section 2b are connected to each other via the proximal base 14, while the distal base 16 connects the distal fixed contact section 4a and another distal fixed contact section 4b.

[0080] exist Figures 1 to 2 The contact bridge 6a shown in the closed position 10b has a height 18a in the switching direction 8, which is located between the height 18b of the proximal base 14 in the switching direction 8 and the height 18c of the proximal fixed contact section 2a in the switching direction 8, and between the height 18d of the distal base 16 in the switching direction 8 and the height 18e of the distal fixed contact section 4a in the switching direction 8. Similarly, in Figures 1 to 2 The height 18f of the other contact bridge 6b in the other closed position 12b shown is located between the height 18b of the proximal base 14 in the switching direction 8 and the height 18g of the other proximal fixed contact section 2b in the switching direction 8, and between the height 18d of the distal base 16 in the switching direction 8 and the height 18h of the other distal fixed contact section 4b in the switching direction 8. In other embodiments, these positional relationships may also be applied to the contact bridge 6a in the open position 10a and the other contact bridge 6b in the other open position 12a.

[0081] exist Figures 1 to 3In the illustrated embodiment, proximal fixed contact segment 2a and another proximal fixed contact segment 2b are spaced apart from the proximal base 14, and distal fixed contact segment 4a and another distal fixed contact segment 4b are offset by 20 spaced apart from the distal base 16 in the switching direction 8. In this embodiment, the offset 20 is measured in the switching direction 8 between the sides of the corresponding fixed contact segments 2a, 2b, 4a, 4b facing the contact bridges 6a, 6b and the sides of the corresponding bases 14, 16 facing the contact bridges 6a, 6b.

[0082] exist Figures 1 to 3 In the illustrated embodiment, a first proximal offset 22a exists between the proximal base 14 and the proximal fixed contact segment 2a; a second proximal offset 22b exists between the proximal base 14 and another proximal fixed contact segment 2b; a first distal offset 24a exists between the distal base 16 and the distal fixed contact segment 4a; and a second distal offset 24b exists between the distal base 16 and another distal fixed contact segment 4b. Of course, in other embodiments, at least two of the offsets 20, 22a, 22b, 24a, and 24b, such as the first proximal offset 22a and the first distal offset 24a, may be different from each other.

[0083] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 The design with various offsets 20, 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b is shown only as an example. The contact device 1 shown there—like... Figures 1 to 3 The contact device 1 shown is the same—it has a proximal fixed contact device 2 and a distal fixed contact device 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the first proximal offset 22a is the same as the first distal offset 24a, and the second proximal offset 22b is the same as the second distal offset 24b. However, the first proximal offset 22a and the first distal offset 24a are different from the second proximal offset 22b and the second distal offset 24b. Because Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal base 14 and the distal base 16 are located in the same plane, specifically at the same heights 18b and 18d relative to the switching direction 8. Therefore, the contact bridge 6a in its closed position 10b and the other contact bridge 6b in its other closed position 12b are spaced apart from each other in the switching direction 8. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the proximal base 14 and the distal base 16 are offset relative to each other in the switching direction 8, i.e., they have different heights 18b and 18d in the switching direction 8. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The design shown allows contact bridges 6a and 6b to open or close one after another during switching. This is particularly advantageous when switching high currents.

[0084] As in Figure 2As can be clearly seen, offsets 20, 22a, 22b, 24a, and 24b can, for example, be between approximately one and three times the thickness 26 of at least one of the fixed contact segments 2a, 2b, 4a, and 4b and / or at least one of the bases 14 and 16. The values ​​of offsets 20, 22a, 22b, 24a, and 24b can, for example, be between approximately 3 mm and approximately 5 mm.

[0085] exist Figures 1 to 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the two bases 14, 16, namely the proximal base 14 and the distal base 16, have, for example, two flat sides 28 pointing towards the switching direction 8. Each of the flat sides 28 may have a normal axis 30 extending parallel to the switching direction 8. The two flat sides 28 may be opposite each other relative to the switching direction 8. Of course, in other embodiments, at least one of the bases 14, 16 may also have two or more flat sides 28, or only a single flat side 28, or no flat side 28 at all.

[0086] The fixed contact devices 2 and 4 can be integrated into a circuit via their respective bases 14 and 16, which can be closed or opened by switching contact bridges 6a and 6b. Bases 14 and 16 can, for example, be connected to or attached to a current conductor 32, as in... Figures 1 to 3 As can be seen, the current conductor 32 may not be designed as a contact bolt as in the illustrated embodiment, but may instead be designed as a busbar, contact pin, or contact socket, for example. Figure 8 A contact device 1 connected to two busbars is shown. In this embodiment, one of the busbars is arranged at the proximal base 14 of the proximal fixed contact device 2, while the other busbar abuts against the distal base 16 of the distal fixed contact device 4.

[0087] from Figure 1 As can be seen, at least one, but preferably both, of the bases 14 and 16 may have at least one connecting device 34 for receiving and / or securing at least one current conductor 32. According to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the design, each of the two bases 14 and 16 is provided with a connecting device 34, which, as an example only, has an opening 36, the longitudinal axis 38 of which extends in the switching direction 8. The connecting devices 34 can be opposite each other in the reference direction 11. Of course, the connecting devices 34 can also be designed differently, for example, to accommodate fastening devices such as screws, bolts, or rivets. For this purpose, the connecting devices 34 can be provided with threads.

[0088] exist Figures 1 to 3In the illustrated embodiment, each fixed contact segment 2a, 2b, 4a, 4b is connected to its corresponding base 14, 16 via a transition segment 40, which is curved in this embodiment. The transition segment 40 may extend substantially along the switching direction 8 and may, for example, have an S-shape. Figure 1 As can be clearly seen, the longitudinal axis 42 of the transition section 40 can be tilted at an angle 44 relative to the switching direction 8. This angle can preferably be a value between about 0° and about 60°.

[0089] Figure 6 A contact device 1 with proximal and distal fixed contact devices 2, 4 is shown, wherein two bases 14, 16 (i.e., proximal base 14 and distal base 16) are additionally provided with connecting tabs 46. In the illustrated embodiment, by way of example only, the two connecting tabs 46 are parallel to each other and extend in the switching direction 8. The connecting tabs 46 may point away from the fixed contact segments 2a, 2b, 4a, 4b and / or the contact bridges 6a, 6b, and do not intersect the planes traversed by the fixed contact segments 2a, 2b, 4a, 4b and / or the planes traversed by the contact bridges 6a, 6b.

[0090] exist Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the angle 48 between the longitudinal axis 50 of the connecting tab 46 and the remainder of the bases 14, 16 is 90°, and the connecting tab 46 protrudes from the flat side 28 of the bases 14, 16. Of course, in other embodiments, at least one connecting tab 46 may extend at an angle 48 deviating from 90°, for example, at an angle 48 between approximately 0° and approximately 90°.

[0091] Of course, in other embodiments, not both bases 14, 16 need to be provided with connecting tabs 46. For example, only the proximal base 14 or only the distal base 16 may include at least one connecting tab 46. Similarly, bases 14, 16 may also have one or more, such as two, three, or five connecting tabs 46. The connecting tabs 46 may preferably extend parallel to each other. Alternatively or cumulatively, the connecting tabs 46 may be arranged on the same side of bases 14, 16 or on at least two different sides of bases 14, 16.

[0092] Figure 7 Another embodiment of the contact device 1 is shown. The contact device 1 shown largely corresponds in its structure to... Figure 1 The contact device 1. However, Figure 7 The contact assembly 1 shown further includes an extinguishing device 52 (shown as a dashed line here). The extinguishing device 52 is designed to generate at least one magnetic field to deflect the arc generated during the switching of the contact bridges 6a and 6b. According to... Figure 7In the design, the extinguishing device 52 has only a single deflecting magnet 54, which is arranged here as an example only between the contact bridge 6a and another contact bridge 6b.

[0093] Finally, refer to Figure 9 Briefly describe the electrical switching device 56. The switching device 56 includes a contact device 1, the structure of which is given here as an example only. Figures 1 to 3 The structure of the contact device 1 is shown. The switching device 56 also has a drive device 60 that moves the contact bridges 6a and 6b in the switching direction 8. The drive device 60 does not necessarily move the contact bridges 6a and 6b separately or independently as in the design described herein, but can also move them together. The drive device 60 may have at least one drivable drive rod 58 that can be driven along the switching direction 8, through which the movement along the switching direction 8 is transmitted at least indirectly to the contact bridges 6a and 6b. For switching, the drive device 60 (exemplarily in the form of drive rod 58) transmits movement to the contact bridges 6a and 6b so that they move toward or away from the fixed contact sections 2a, 2b, 4a, 4b in the switching direction 8. In this way, the drive device 60 can move one contact bridge 6a from the open position 10a (not shown here) to the closed position 10b, and move another contact bridge 6b from another open position 12a (not shown here) to another closed position 12b.

[0094] The above-described embodiments of the contact device 1 each have two contact bridges, namely contact bridge 6a and another contact bridge 6b. However, the contact device 1 with a single contact bridge 6a can also achieve the aforementioned objective. Therefore, reference is made below. Figures 10 to 12 Another embodiment is described, wherein the contact device 1 has only a single contact bridge, that is, only contact bridge 6a.

[0095] Figure 10 A contact device 1 is shown, comprising a proximal fixed contact device 2, a distal fixed contact device 4, and a contact bridge 6a, the contact bridge 6a being movable along the switching direction 8. Figure 10 The contact bridge 6a shown is in the open position 10a, such that the contact bridge 6a is spaced apart from the proximal and distal fixed contact sections 2a, 4a in the switching direction 8. In this embodiment, the switching contacts 62 of the contact bridge 6a are spaced apart from each other along a direction 64, for example along a reference direction 11 and perpendicular to the switching direction 8.

[0096] In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal fixing contact device 2 is opposite to the distal fixing contact device 4 in a reference direction 11, which extends perpendicular to the switching direction 8. The proximal fixing contact device 2 has a proximal fixing contact section 2a that protrudes from the proximal base 14 in the direction of the distal base 16, while the distal fixing contact device 4 includes a distal fixing contact section 4a that protrudes from the distal base 16 in the direction of the proximal base 14. In this embodiment, the fixing contact sections 2a and 4a may face each other in the reference direction 11.

[0097] The contact bridge 6a has a height 18a in the switching direction 8. Even in the open position 10a shown here, the height 18a can be located between the height 18b in the switching direction 8 of the proximal base 14 and the height 18c in the switching direction 8 of the proximal fixed contact section 2a, and between the height 18d in the switching direction 8 of the distal base 16 and the height 18e in the switching direction 8 of the distal fixed contact section 4a.

[0098] exist Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal fixed contact section 2a and the distal fixed contact section 4a are offset by 20 spaced apart from the two bases 14, 16 in the switching direction 8. In this embodiment, the offset 20 is measured in the switching direction 8 between the sides of the respective fixed contact sections 2a, 4a facing the contact bridge 6a and the sides of the respective bases 14, 16 facing the contact bridge 6a. Figure 10 It can be seen that the first proximal offset 22a between the proximal base 14 and the proximal fixed contact section 2a, and the first distal offset 24a between the distal base 16 and the distal fixed contact section 4a, can be the same. As shown in the embodiment of the contact device 1 having two contact bridges 6a, 6b, the offsets 20, 22a, and 24a can of course be different from each other.

[0099] exist Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, each fixed contact segment 2a, 4a can be connected to its corresponding base 14, 16 via a transition segment 40. The transition segment 40 is shown here by way of example and is roughly S-shaped. The transition segment 40 can extend substantially along the switching direction 8.

[0100] Both the proximal base 14 and the distal base 16 may each have at least one connecting device 34, which is exemplarily designed here as a connecting tab 46. In the illustrated embodiment, the two connecting tabs 46 are parallel to each other and extend in the switching direction 8. According to... Figure 10In some embodiments, the connecting tab 46 may not penetrate the plane spanned by the fixed contact sections 2a, 4a and the contact bridge 6a. The angle 48 between the longitudinal axis 50 of the connecting tab 46 and the rest of the base 14 or 16 (particularly the flat side 28 from which the connecting tab 46 protrudes from the base 14 or 16) is 90°, by way of example only.

[0101] Figure 11 This illustrates a particularly advantageous design of the contact device 1, wherein the contact bridge 6a and Figure 10 The design shown is rotated 90° compared to the previous one. In this embodiment, the switching contacts 62 of the contact bridge 6a are spaced apart from each other and extend along a direction 64 perpendicular to the switching direction 8 and at an angle 66 to the reference direction 11. In this embodiment, the switching contacts 62 of the contact bridge 6a are spaced apart from each other and extend along a direction 64 parallel to the longitudinal axis 68 of the contact bridge 6a. From Figure 11 It can be seen that the angle 66 relative to the reference direction 11 is preferably 90°. Of course, in other embodiments, the contact bridge 6a may also be oriented at a different angle 66 relative to the reference direction 11, such as at an angle 66 of about 45° or at other acute angles.

[0102] exist Figure 11 In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal base 14 and the distal base 16 may face each other in the reference direction 11. Each base 14, 16 may be provided with a connecting device 34, through which at least one current conductor 32 may be connected. In this embodiment, the connecting device 34 is designed as an opening 36, whose longitudinal axis 38 extends in the switching direction 8, only as an example. Of course, the connecting device 34 may also be designed differently. In particular, the connecting device 34 of this contact device 1 (whose contact bridge 6a is arranged at an angle 66 to the reference direction 11) may also have at least one connecting tab 46. Figure 12 In the illustrated embodiment, both the proximal base 14 and the distal base 16 may each have at least one connecting tab 46, whose longitudinal axes 50 may be parallel to each other and extend in the switching direction 8.

[0103] from Figure 11 and Figure 12 It can be seen that the proximal fixed contact section 2a and the distal fixed contact section 4a are at least partially adjacent to each other along the direction 64, and in particular overlap each other, relative to the switching contact 62 of the contact bridge 6a. Furthermore, the longitudinal axes 70a, 70b of the proximal base 14 and / or the distal base 16 can extend along the direction 64, particularly along the longitudinal axis 68 of the respective contact bridge 6a.

[0104] from Figure 12It can be further seen that the width 74 of the proximal base 14, measured in the width direction 72, can be greater than the width 76 of the proximal fixed contact section 2a, measured in the width direction 72. Similarly, the width 78 of the distal base 16, measured in the width direction 72, can be greater than the width 80 of the distal fixed contact section 4a, measured in the width direction 72. The width direction 72 extends here perpendicular to the switching direction 8 and perpendicular to the reference direction 11.

[0105] Figure Labels

[0106] 1. Contact device

[0107] 2. Proximal fixed contact device

[0108] 2a Proximal fixed contact section

[0109] 2b Another proximal fixed contact section

[0110] 4. Remote fixed contact device

[0111] 4a Distal fixed contact section

[0112] 4b Another distal fixed contact section

[0113] 6a Contact Bridge

[0114] 6b Another contact bridge

[0115] 8. Change direction

[0116] 10a Open Location

[0117] 10b Closed position

[0118] 11. Reference Direction

[0119] 12a Another opening position

[0120] 12b Another closed position

[0121] 14 Proximal base

[0122] 16. Distal base

[0123] The height of the 18a contact bridge

[0124] Height of the proximal base of 18b

[0125] Height of the 18c proximal fixed contact section

[0126] Height of the distal base of 18d

[0127] Height of the 18e distal fixed contact section

[0128] The height of the other contact bridge at 18f

[0129] The height of the other proximal fixed contact section is 18g.

[0130] The height of the other distal fixed contact section at 18h

[0131] 20 offset

[0132] 22a First proximal offset

[0133] 22b Second Proximal Offset

[0134] 24a First distal offset

[0135] 24b Second Distal Offset

[0136] 26mm thickness

[0137] 28. Flat side

[0138] 30 Normal axis

[0139] 32 Current Conductors

[0140] 34 Connecting device

[0141] 36 Opening

[0142] 38. Longitudinal axis of the opening

[0143] 40 Transition Section

[0144] 42. Longitudinal axis of the transition section

[0145] 44. Tilt Angle

[0146] 46 Connecting tabs

[0147] 48 Angle of connecting tabs

[0148] 50. Longitudinal axis of the connecting tab

[0149] 52 Extinguishing device

[0150] 54. Blow out the magnet

[0151] 56 Switching device

[0152] 58 drive levers

[0153] 60 Drive unit

[0154] 62 Switching Contacts

[0155] 64. Switch the direction of the contact spacing.

[0156] 66 Angle relative to the reference direction

[0157] 68. Longitudinal axis of the contact bridge

[0158] 70a longitudinal axis of the proximal base

[0159] Longitudinal axis of the distal base of 70b

[0160] 72 Width direction

[0161] 74 Width of the proximal base

[0162] 76 Width of the proximal fixed contact section

[0163] 78 Width of the distal base

[0164] 80 Width of the distal fixed contact section

Claims

1. A contact device (1) for switching devices (56), such as relays or contactors, It has a proximal fixed contact device (2), which has a proximal fixed contact section (2a), It has a remote fixed contact device (4), which has a remote fixed contact section (4a), A contact bridge (6a) is provided that can move from an open position (10a) to a closed position (10b) in the switching direction (8). In the closed position (10b), it contacts and electrically connects the proximal and distal fixed contact sections (2a, 4a) to each other, and in the open position (10a), it is spaced apart from the proximal and distal fixed contact sections (2a, 4a). And among them, The proximal fixed contact device (2) has a proximal base (14), and the distal fixed contact device (4) has a distal base (16), wherein the proximal fixed contact segment (2a) protrudes from the proximal base (14) in the direction of the distal base (16), and the distal fixed contact segment (4a) protrudes from the distal base (16) in the direction of the proximal base (14). Furthermore, the contact bridge (6a) is arranged at a height (18a) in the switching direction (8) at least in the closed position (10b), the height (18a) being between the height (18b) of the proximal base (14) in the switching direction (8) and the height (18c) of the proximal fixed contact section (2a) in the switching direction (8), and between the height (18d) of the distal base (16) in the switching direction (8) and the height (18e) of the distal fixed contact section (4a) in the switching direction (8).

2. The contact device (1) according to claim 1, in, The proximal base (14) and the distal base (16) are opposite to each other in the reference direction (11), and wherein the switching contacts (62) of the contact bridge (6a) are spaced apart from each other in a direction (64) perpendicular to the switching direction (8) and at an angle (66) to the reference direction (11).

3. The contact device (1) according to claim 2, in, The angle (66) is 90°.

4. The contact device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in, The proximal fixing contact device (2) has another proximal fixing contact section (2a), and the distal fixing contact device (4) has another distal fixing contact section (4a). Furthermore, the proximal fixed contact segment (2a) is connected to another proximal fixed contact segment (2b) via the proximal base (14), and the distal fixed contact segment (4a) is connected to another distal fixed contact segment (4b). It has another contact bridge (6b) that can move from another open position (12a) to another closed position (12b) along the switching direction (8), in which it contacts another proximal and another distal fixed contact sections (2b, 4b) and electrically connects them to each other, and in which it is spaced apart from another proximal and another distal fixed contact sections (2b, 4b) in the other open position (12a). Furthermore, another contact bridge (6b) is arranged at a height (18f) in the switching direction (8) at least in another closed position (12b), the height (18f) being between the height (18b) of the proximal base (14) in the switching direction (8) and the height (18g) of the other proximal fixed contact section (2a) in the switching direction (8), and between the height (18d) of the distal base (16) in the switching direction (8) and the height (18h) of the other distal fixed contact section (4a) in the switching direction (8).

5. The contact device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in, In the switching direction (8), the proximal fixed contact segment (2a) is spaced apart from the proximal base (14) by a first proximal offset (22a), and the distal fixed contact segment (4a) is spaced apart from the distal base (16) by a first distal offset (24a), and / or In the switching direction (8), the other proximal fixed contact segment (2b) is spaced apart from the proximal base (14) by a second proximal offset (22b), and the other distal fixed contact segment (4b) is spaced apart from the distal base (16) by a second distal offset (24b).

6. The contact device according to claim 5, in, The first proximal offset (22a) and the first distal offset (24a) are the same, and the second proximal offset (22b) and the second distal offset (24b) are the same, and the first proximal offset (22a) and the first distal offset (24a) are different from the second proximal offset (22b) and the second distal offset (24b).

7. The contact device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in, The proximal and / or distal bases (14, 16) have at least one flat side (28) pointing toward the switching direction (8).

8. The contact device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, in, The proximal base (14) has at least one connecting device (34) for receiving and / or securing at least one current conductor (32), and / or wherein the distal base (16) has at least one connecting device (34) for receiving and / or securing at least one current conductor (32).

9. The contact device (1) according to claim 8, in, The at least one connecting device (34) includes a connecting tab (46) configured to be connected to the at least one current conductor (32).

10. The contact device (1) according to claim 9, in, The at least one connecting tab (46) extends at least partially along the switching direction (8).

11. The contact device (1) according to claim 9 or 10, in, The at least one connecting tab (46) does not intersect with the planes spanned by the proximal fixed contact section (2a) and the distal fixed contact section (4a) and / or by the other proximal fixed contact section (2b) and the other distal fixed contact section (4b).

12. The contact device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, in, The contact device (1) has a transition section (40), wherein the proximal fixed contact section (2a) and the other proximal fixed contact section (2b) are each connected to the proximal base (14) via one of the transition sections (40), and / or The distal fixed contact section (4a) and the other distal fixed contact section (4b) are each connected to the distal base (16) via one of the transition sections (40). The transition section (40) extends substantially along the switching direction (8).

13. The contact device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, in, At least one of the fixed contact devices (2, 4) of the group of fixed contact devices (2, 4) including the proximal and distal fixed contact devices (2, 4) is integrally formed.

14. The contact device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, It has a blow-out device (52) having at least one blow-out magnet (54), wherein, The extinguishing device (52) is designed to generate at least one magnetic field to deflect the electric arc generated in the open position (10a) or the other open position (12a).

15. An electrical switching device (56), The contact device (1) has any one of claims 1 to 14. It also has a drive device (60) designed to move the first contact bridge (6a) from the first open position (10a) to the first closed position (10b) in the switching direction (8) and to move the second contact bridge (6b) from the second open position (12a) to the second closed position (12b) in the switching direction (8).

Images