Switching device for busbar systems

Abstract

The present invention provides a switching device (1000), particularly a switching device for a bus system, comprising: a housing (100); at least two fuse receiving spaces (250-i) within the housing (100) for fuse holders (210-i), each for an electrical fuse (270-i); a motor (131); and a transmission mechanism (600) configured to be driven by the motor (131) to actuate a linkage displacement mechanism (400) arranged within the housing (100) for disconnecting or closing an electrical path therein.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention provides a switching device, particularly for busbar systems, preferably power busbar systems having multiple power buses arranged in parallel. The switching device is configured to house a fuse in a fuse holder, and particularly can be a disconnecting switch with a fuse. Background Technology

[0002] Busbar systems provide a simple and easy method for supplying power to a large number of switchgear devices and facilitate their monitoring. It is desirable to install as many switchgear devices as possible on a given busbar system. Typically, busbar systems are housed inside switchgear cabinets, where space, particularly in the width direction (i.e., from left to right as seen from the front of the cabinet), is extremely valuable.

[0003] Therefore, there has always been a desire to provide switchgear with the smallest possible width. However, this desire has been hampered by other constraints. Safety regulations typically require specific distances between current-carrying components of switchgear, minimum creepage distances, minimum clearance distances, etc. For example, one of these regulations is the US standard UL 98 concerning enclosed and dead-front switches. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One of the objectives of this invention is to provide a switching device that can be configured with a particularly small width while meeting even more stringent safety regulations.

[0005] This objective is addressed by the subject matter of the independent claims.

[0006] Therefore, according to a first aspect of the present invention, a switching device, particularly a switching device for a bus system, comprises: The housing includes an upper housing component and a lower housing component; At least two fuse receiving spaces for fuse holders, each fuse receiving space for an electrical fuse, wherein at least two fuse receiving spaces are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction of the switchgear. An electrically insulating intermediate component is arranged between an upper housing component and a lower housing component, the intermediate component being at least partially bonded to the housing by intermaterial bonding.

[0007] The switching device can specifically be a disconnecting switch with a fuse. The switching device can be equipped with a fuse holder configured to accommodate any known fuse, such as D0, D01, D02, 10×38, CC class fuses, 14×51, 22×58, 10×85, J30, J60, etc. Generally, fuses that are substantially or completely rotationally symmetrical in their longitudinal range are readily compatible.

[0008] Specifically, the clearance distance can be 25.4 mm (1 inch) or greater, and the creepage distance can be 50.8 mm (2 inches) or greater. This switchgear meets all the requirements of UL 98 standard for safe enclosed and compartmentalized switches.

[0009] The intermediate components preferably comprise, or are made entirely of, insulating plastic material, preferably thermally conductive plastic material, for example, having a thermal conductivity of 1 W / (m*K) or higher. Preferably, other parts of the housing or the entire housing may also comprise, or be composed of, thermally conductive plastic material, particularly thermally conductive plastic material with a thermal conductivity of 1 W / (m*K) or higher.

[0010] Here and below, the intermediate components, such as wall sections, will be described. It should be understood that the intermediate components may be assembled from several parts, but are preferably formed integrally, i.e., formed as a single piece (e.g., by injection molding), and then inserted into the upper or lower housing components for intermaterial bonding.

[0011] The bonding between materials has the advantage that it completely and permanently closes the gap that forms the bond, thereby closing the gap distance that would otherwise exist due to factors such as shell warping or could form over time. Therefore, the direct distance between current-carrying structures can be closed, and longer creepage distances and gap distances can be achieved even in narrow spaces with shells of very small width.

[0012] The bonding between materials can be achieved, for example, by welding, such as ultrasonic plastic welding, using an ultrasonic welding electrode or hot plate welding. Alternatively, plastic laser welding can be used; for this purpose, some parts of the housing and / or intermediate components can be made transparent, allowing the welding laser to pass through them to reach the opaque parts to be welded. Other variations include, for example, bonding.

[0013] Other advantages will become apparent from the dependent claims and the description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0014] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the intermediate component includes a wall portion that extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extent, wherein at least one wall portion is arranged between every two adjacent fuse receiving spaces. The wall portion (which is also insulated) is particularly used to increase the gap distance and creepage distance, so that the width of the switching device can be significantly reduced relative to similar switching devices in the prior art.

[0015] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, each fuse receiving space is defined along the longitudinal direction by a front wall portion and a rear wall portion of an intermediate component. In other words, there are two wall portions between every two adjacent fuse receiving spaces, one of which is designated as the rear wall portion of the preceding (longitudinal) fuse receiving space, and the other is designated as the front wall portion of the following (longitudinal) fuse receiving space.

[0016] This provides further shaping of the gap distance and creepage distance between each pair of adjacent fuse housing spaces. As will be described below, the corresponding front or rear wall portions may also provide additional functions, such as guiding features for the fuse holder.

[0017] Switchgear can have two, three, four, five, or even more fuse holders. Advantageously, each fuse is associated with one of the power busbar systems via bus contacts on the bottom side of the switchgear housing. Typically, each busbar in the power busbar system is connected to a different phase, namely one of L1, L2, L3, N, and GND. Aligning the fuse holders longitudinally helps save space in the width direction.

[0018] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the fuse holder has at least a partially cylindrical shape, and the internal contours of the corresponding front and / or rear wall portions are at least partially adapted in shape to this cylindrical shape. This reduces the space requirements in the longitudinal direction. The cylindrical contour of the fuse housing space can be provided by an intermediate component, an upper housing component, and / or a lower housing component, preferably by all components together.

[0019] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the front wall portion and / or the rear wall portion are provided with rib-like structures on their respective outer sides relative to their respective fuse receiving spaces. These rib-like structures, i.e., structures each comprising two or more ribs, significantly increase the creepage distance along the surface. For example, each rib-like structure may include three to ten ribs, wherein the number of ribs in the front wall portion may differ from the number of ribs in the rear wall portion.

[0020] Preferably, the ribs of the front wall portion point toward the corresponding rear wall portion of the next fuse receiving space, and / or the ribs of the rear wall portion protrude toward (or point toward, or extend toward) the corresponding front wall portion of the preceding front wall portion. The ribs themselves may extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, particularly along the width direction. A gap may be provided between the ribs of the front wall portion and the ribs of the corresponding next rear wall portion to increase the clearance distance.

[0021] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of embodiments, at least one or each rear wall portion is connected via a generally strip-shaped plate portion of an intermediate member to a corresponding front wall portion of an adjacent fuse receiving space in the volume between the rear wall portion and the front wall portion, the plate portion extending substantially perpendicular to the rear wall portion and the front wall portion.

[0022] Therefore, the strip portion can be perpendicular to the width direction and parallel to the longitudinal direction. Regarding the width direction, the strip portion can be substantially positioned in the middle of the intermediate component. The strip portion is preferably integrally formed with the wall portion, particularly with the front and rear wall portions to which it is connected.

[0023] Preferably, each rear wall portion and each front wall portion connected by the strip plate portion includes a rib structure on each side of the strip plate portion (along the width direction).

[0024] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the housing includes a top side with a fuse receiving opening therein through which the fuse holder can be inserted into and at least partially removed from the housing, each opening leading to a fuse receiving space. In some variations, the fuse holder can be completely removed from the housing. In other variations, such as those shown in the figures, the fuse holder can be retracted until the fuse can be inserted or removed, but cannot be removed from the switching device without damage. In this way, the fuse holder is not lost.

[0025] Preferably, at least one rear wall portion and at least one front wall portion are interconnected at their respective ends extending toward the top side of the housing via top-side rib structures of an intermediate member. Each top-side rib structure includes ribs projecting toward the top side of the housing, for example, three to ten ribs, preferably four, five, or six ribs. The top-side rib structures increase the creepage distance between the interiors of the different fuse receiving spaces.

[0026] Preferably, the top rib-like structure is integrally formed with the front wall portion and / or rear wall portion to which it is connected, and even more preferably, it is also integrally formed with the other (most preferably all) portions of the intermediate component.

[0027] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the inner wall of each fuse receiving space includes at least one guide profile for guiding the fuse holder within the respective fuse receiving space. Preferably, the inner wall is also formed as part of an intermediate component and may be part of the front and / or rear wall portion of the fuse receiving space.

[0028] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the upper housing component, the lower housing component, and / or (preferably) the intermediate component are made of a material with a thermal conductivity of 1 W / (K*m) or higher, particularly plastic materials. In this way, the respective components contribute to improved thermal management of the switching device, which in turn helps to enable the switching device to be made particularly small in size.

[0029] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of embodiments, each fuse receiving space includes, along the axial direction of the fuse receiving space, a base contact terminal, a base contact spring plunger, and a base contact spring element that are associated with each other and with the respective fuse receiving space.

[0030] Each base contact terminal is configured to contact the first terminal of the fuse when the fuse is inserted into the corresponding fuse receiving space. An associated base contact spring element is configured to apply a force toward the base contact terminal to the base contact spring plunger. When the fuse is inserted into the corresponding fuse receiving space, the base contact spring plunger is configured to be driven by said force to press against the first terminal of the fuse. In this way, it is ensured that the fuse always makes a firm electrical contact and is firmly held in the axial direction. This is also achieved in a space-saving manner.

[0031] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations thereof, for each base contact spring plunger, the intermediate component includes a spring plunger guide portion configured to guide the base contact spring plunger to move along or against the force of the base contact spring element. Preferably, the spring plunger guide portion is integrally formed with other portions of the intermediate component, and most preferably, with the front and rear wall portions of its corresponding fuse receiving space.

[0032] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the switching device includes a linkage shifting mechanism movable in the longitudinal direction. The linkage shifting mechanism can be engaged by a manually actuating element and can perform the switching function of the switching device by closing or opening an electrical path between the bottom bus contacts on one side and the output terminals on the other. Here, the bottom side of the housing refers to the side opposite to the top side of the housing.

[0033] Preferably, the intermediate component further includes a linkage shifting mechanism receiving portion therein, in which the linkage shifting mechanism can move.

[0034] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the linkage shifting mechanism receiving portion includes at least one rib-shaped section, wherein each rib-shaped section includes a plurality of ribs projecting toward the linkage shifting mechanism. Similarly, in this case, the ribs of the rib-shaped section, for example three to ten ribs, preferably four, five, or six ribs, increase the creepage distance.

[0035] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, at least one (and preferably two or more) of at least one rib segment is configured such that the ribs of the rib segment extend toward a corresponding fuse receiving space. This further increases the creepage distance.

[0036] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the width of the switching device perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is 27 mm or less, for example 26 mm or less, preferably 24 mm or less, particularly preferably 23 mm or less, and most preferably 22.5 mm or less. These dimensions are smaller than switches designed with fuses known in the prior art, allowing for more of these switching devices per meter than comparable devices.

[0037] This width is preferably adapted to the slot spacing of the contact protection grid of the power bus system (and optionally a slotted bus or a hybrid bus) to which the switchgear is designed, advantageously making the width of the switchgear an integer multiple of the slot spacing. A common slot spacing is, for example, 4.5 mm, so 22.5 mm is advantageously 5 times the slot spacing.

[0038] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the locking mechanism portion is provided with a latch wall. A locking actuator, pivotable about a pivot axis, actuates a spring element, which may in particular be a spring-loaded clamp (e.g., for allowing insertion or retrieval of an external conductive element), and is arranged within the locking mechanism portion such that it is movable between a locked position and a released position.

[0039] The locking actuator may be provided with a protruding nose-like projection that, in the locked position, is pushed against the latch wall, causing the locking actuator to be pushed to an eccentric position relative to the pivot axis, thereby locking at least one locking projection of the locking actuator within a corresponding latch profile of the housing. In this way, a mechanism is provided in which the user must apply greater force when bringing the locking actuator from the release position to the locked position, as when returning it from the locked position to the release position.

[0040] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the switching device is provided with an electric actuator (particularly a motor) for switching functions. Therefore, the switching function can be remotely controlled; that is, the electrical path in the switching device can be closed or opened according to a switching signal (i.e., the switching device can be turned off or on). The switching device may include a communication interface for receiving switching signals for switching the device, such as analog switching signals, preferably digital switching signals.

[0041] The switching signal can be any signal that indicates whether the switching device should be turned on or off. The communication interface can be further configured to forward the received switching signal to the electric actuator, or to generate and transmit a signal to the electric actuator based on the switching signal to control the electric actuator to perform on or off according to the switching signal.

[0042] The switching signal can be external or internal. For example, the switching device may include at least one sensor unit, such as an ammeter (i.e., a current measuring device), configured to output a measurement signal. Internal logic can be configured to generate an internal switching signal based on one or more such measurement signals. For example, if a current value exceeding a current threshold A1 is measured for a duration longer than a time threshold T1, an internal switching signal is generated to indicate that the switching device should be disconnected. The internal logic can be integrated into one or more of the at least one sensor unit. The internal switching signal can be transmitted directly to the electric actuator or via a communication interface.

[0043] Internal switching signals, or signals indicating that such internal switching signals have been sent (optionally, along with information about their contents), can also be output via the communication interface. In this way, the external monitoring unit can receive both status signals from the electric actuator indicating that the switching device is open, and signals indicating that internal switching signals have been sent for this purpose, thereby providing the external monitoring unit with useful information to automatically determine further actions (if any).

[0044] The communication interface can be configured to connect to a communication fieldbus. In some variations, the communication interface can be a wireless communication interface, for example, for communication via wireless Ethernet, Bluetooth, ZigBee, etc.

[0045] The communication interface can be further configured to output a status signal (e.g., via a communication fieldbus) that indicates the status of the electric actuator and / or switching device, preferably indicating whether the motor is in a state consistent with the on or off state of the switching device.

[0046] An electric actuator may be provided additionally or in place of a manual actuation element for switching devices. Preferably, both are provided so that the user can always close the switching device in an emergency, even when the switching device is instructed to open according to a switch signal (i.e., all electrical paths are closed). Both the electric and manual actuators can act on the same mechanism or a portion thereof, such as an actuation wheel.

[0047] The electric actuator can be a rotary motor or a linear motor. The linear motor can be coupled to the shaft via a gearbox, which converts the linear motion of the linear motor into rotation of the shaft, preferably simultaneously applying a lever effect to increase the torque provided by the linear motor. The shaft can pass through an upper or lower housing component into a side housing component, where the electric actuator and gearbox can be arranged.

[0048] The switching device may include a printed circuit board. An electric actuator may be controlled by components of the printed circuit board. The communication interface of the switching device may be connected to the printed circuit board, or may be provided by the printed circuit board.

[0049] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a switching device, particularly a method for manufacturing a switching device according to the first aspect of the present invention. The method may include at least the following steps: - Provide upper housing components; - Provide lower housing components; - Provides intermediate components with electrical insulation; - Inserting other parts of the switching device into the housing and / or connecting them to the upper housing component, lower housing component, and / or intermediate component; and - To materially bond the intermediate component with the lower housing component and / or the upper housing component.

[0050] According to a third aspect, the present invention also provides a switching device, particularly a switching device for a busbar system, comprising: case; The housing contains at least two fuse receiving spaces for fuse holders, each fuse receiving space being for an electrical fuse; Electric motor; and The transmission mechanism is configured to be driven by an electric motor to actuate a linkage displacement mechanism arranged within the housing, for disconnecting or closing the electrical path therein (or in other words: for disconnecting or closing the switching device). Any or all embodiments of the third aspect may also be embodiments of the first aspect, and vice versa.

[0051] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the transmission mechanism includes a first transmission member arranged to be partially rotatable about a hypothetical transmission axis and further arranged to be partially movable along the transmission axis.

[0052] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the transmission mechanism further includes a second transmission member arranged to be partially rotatable about the transmission axis. The second transmission member is preferably arranged between the first transmission member and the indirect linkage shifting mechanism, particularly between the first transmission member and the actuating wheel for actuating the linkage shifting mechanism.

[0053] The second transmission component preferably includes at least one guide pin extending radially inward toward the transmission axis. Advantageously, the first transmission component includes at least one guide channel, and each guide pin is configured and arranged to move along and within a corresponding one of the at least one guide channel. The interaction of the guide pins engaging the guide channels allows for various methods of transmitting rotational motion from the first transmission component to the second transmission component or vice versa.

[0054] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, each guide channel includes a first portion and (or an angled) second portion, the first portion being arranged in a plane substantially perpendicular to the drive axis, and the second portion being arranged at an angle of 100° to 160° relative to the corresponding first portion, preferably between 120° and 140°. The vertical first portion allows the guide pin to move along the guide channel without affecting the axial position of the first drive component. The angled second portion allows the guide pin to apply an axial force and / or torque to the first drive component. Depending on whether axial movement of the first drive component is currently permitted (or: enabled), this means that when the guide pin is located in the second portion, the first drive component can be moved and / or rotated axially via the guide pin.

[0055] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the second transmission component is axially fixed (particularly relative to the actuating wheel, the lower housing component, and / or the linkage shifting mechanism), and the first transmission component is axially movable only in one rotational position, particularly in a position corresponding to the on state of the switching device, where the electrical path is closed. Axial movement is not permitted (or: impossible) with respect to all other reachable rotational positions of the transmission shaft.

[0056] For example, multiple slots may be provided at the edge of the end of the first transmission component, facing the direction of the second transmission component (and, for example, an actuating wheel, a linkage shifting mechanism, etc.). These slots are aligned with a corresponding number of axial blocking ribs only in one rotational position. In other rotational positions, the axial blocking ribs (which may, for example, be formed as part of the lower housing component) abut against the edge, thereby preventing axial movement in one direction (towards them). In this position, axial movement of the first transmission component in another direction may be directly or indirectly prevented by another housing component (e.g., a side housing component).

[0057] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of embodiments, the first transmission member includes at least one receiving portion on the side opposite to the second transmission member; The transmission mechanism also includes a moving gear component, which is mechanically arranged directly or indirectly between the electric motor and the first transmission component. The movable gear component includes at least one protrusion configured to engage with at least one receiving portion; and The movable gear component and the first transmission component are configured such that when the first transmission component moves a predetermined distance away from the movable gear component, at least one protrusion and at least one receiving portion automatically disengage from each other. The movable gear component may be provided with gear teeth.

[0058] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the transmission mechanism includes a spring member disposed between the first transmission member and a housing component of the housing, particularly between the first transmission member and a socket (or: reception portion, or, receiving member) formed on the outside of the housing component, for axially and radially securing one end of the spring member therein.

[0059] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the second transmission member and the spring member are configured and arranged such that the spring member passes through the second transmission member.

[0060] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the first transmission member is preloaded by a spring member in the direction toward the moving gear member.

[0061] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of embodiments, the second transmission component includes fins arranged and configured to engage with spokes and / or openings in an actuating wheel configured to directly or indirectly actuate a linkage displacement mechanism.

[0062] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the switching device further includes a communication interface configured to receive a switching signal instructing the switching device to turn on or off, and to forward the switching signal to the motor or to generate and transmit a signal to the motor based on the switching signal to control the motor to perform on or off according to the switching signal.

[0063] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of embodiments, the communication interface is further configured to output a status signal indicating the status of the motor and / or switching device, preferably indicating whether the motor is in a state consistent with the on or off state of the switching device.

[0064] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of embodiments, a mechanical switch status indicator is marked on, rigidly attached to, or integrally formed with the linkage shift mechanism; wherein the housing includes a switch status indicator opening, the mechanical switch status indicator and the switch status indicator opening are configured and arranged such that when the switching device is turned on, a first mark is visible from the outside through the switch status indicator opening, and a second mark is visible when the switching device is turned off.

[0065] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the switching device further includes a guide switch configured to be actuated by the linkage mechanism based on whether the electrical path is currently open or closed, and the guide switch is configured to output a corresponding signal.

[0066] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations, the axis of rotation through which the electric motor directly provides torque is perpendicular or parallel to the axis of rotation around which the actuating wheel is configured.

[0067] All the foregoing advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations thereof may be combined with or implemented in conjunction with any other embodiments and aspects of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0068] The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments described in the accompanying drawings.

[0069] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, are included to provide a further understanding of the invention. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. Other embodiments of the invention and many anticipated advantages of the invention will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description. Elements in the drawings are not necessarily to scale. The same reference numerals denote corresponding similar parts.

[0070] Terms such as “up,” “down,” “side,” “top,” “bottom,” “front,” and “rear” are used consistently, but this does not mean that the switching device must be oriented in a certain way.

[0071] In the attached diagram: Figure 1 A 3D view of a switching device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 2A It shows Figure 1 A view of the switch device in the ON state, with the upper housing component removed; Figure 2B With Figure 2A The same view shows the variant design in a disconnected state; Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 and Figure 2A The intermediate component of the switching device is oriented in the same direction as in Figure 2; Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 A slightly rotated 3D view of the middle component; Figure 5 It shows from another perspective Figure 3 and Figure 4 A slightly rotated 3D view of the middle component; Figure 6 It shows from another perspective Figure 1 and Figure 2A A schematic diagram of some internal components of the switching device; Figure 7 It shows from another perspective Figure 1 and Figure 2A A schematic side view of some other internal components of the switching device; Figure 8 The selection of components in a switching device is illustrated to demonstrate how to insert, electrically contact, secure, and release external conductive elements within the switching device. Figure 9 A schematic close-up view of the shape of the locking leaf spring used in the switching device is shown; Figure 10 The function of the locking actuator of the switching device is shown; Figure 11 A perspective view of the locking actuator is shown; Figure 12 Another perspective view of the locking actuator is shown; Figure 13 An internal perspective view of the upper housing component of the switching device housing is shown; Figure 14 An internal plan view of the lower housing component of the switching device housing is shown; Figure 15 The front side of the housing of the switching device is shown; Figure 16 A three-dimensional perspective view is shown, primarily showing the bottom side of the housing of the switching device; Figure 17 Details of the top side of the housing of the switching device are shown; Figure 18 A three-dimensional perspective view of a fuse holder for a switching device is shown, in which the fuse is arranged; Figure 19 An internal schematic diagram of the side housing component in the variant is shown; Figure 20 Another embodiment is shown, wherein the switching device is in the ON state; Figure 21 It shows Figure 20 An example of an instance that is in a disconnected state; Figure 22 It shows Figure 20 An example of an instance where the device is in a disconnected state due to manual over-control. Figure 23 It shows the use of Figure 19 or Figures 20 to 22 The transmission mechanism of the embodiment; Figures 24A to 30BIt shows Figures 20 to 22 The details and parts of the variant; Figure 31 The linkage shifting mechanism used in the embodiments is shown; Figure 32 It shows the relationship with Figure 31 Details of the housing used in conjunction with the linkage shifting mechanism; Figure 33 Detailed views of a portion of a switching device with a guide switch, according to some variations, are shown; and Figure 34 A schematic flowchart illustrating the method according to the second aspect of the present invention is shown.

[0072] Although specific embodiments have been shown and described herein, those skilled in the art will understand that various alternative and / or equivalent embodiments can be substituted for the specific embodiments shown and described without departing from the scope of the invention. Generally, this application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the specific embodiments discussed herein. Detailed Implementation

[0073] Figure 1 A 3D view of a switching device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0074] The switching device 1000 has a housing 100, which includes (or is composed of) an upper housing component 110 and a lower housing component 120. The terms "upper" and "lower" are conventional in this context (because the switching device 1000 can be mounted in various orientations), referring to two parts of the housing 100, and can be replaced by "first" and "second" or any other type of designation to distinguish them. In this example, a side housing component 130 of the housing 100 is attached to the lower housing component 120 on its free side. This side housing component 130 can accommodate additional electronic components, such as monitoring and / or communication equipment.

[0075] In the example shown, the lower housing component 120 is essentially formed as an open box, and the upper housing component 110 is formed as a lid to close the box; however, other distributions of the box shape of the housing 100 on the upper housing component 110 and the lower housing component 120 are also possible.

[0076] In the top side 101 of the switching device 1000 and housing 100, where the top side 101 (for its main part) is formed in the lower housing member 120, openings are formed for receiving fuse holders 210-1, 210-2, 210-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 210-i). The illustrated embodiment is provided with three fuse holders 210-i, each for accommodating a single fuse. Each fuse is positioned in a different electrical path that can be interrupted by the removal or melting of the fuse, and can be interrupted by actuating the manual actuation element 150 (or manual switch), which will be described in more detail below.

[0077] Each electrical path connects the corresponding bottom electrical terminals 220-1, 220-2, 220-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 220-i) to the corresponding front electrical terminals 230-1, 230-2, 230-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 230-i).

[0078] Bottom electrical terminals 220-i are disposed on the bottom side 109 of housing 100, which is formed in the lower housing member 120 for its main portion. Bottom side 109 is arranged opposite top side 101, separated from top side 101 by a distance equal to the depth D of the switching device 1000 and housing 100. Bottom electrical terminals 220-i are configured to electrically contact each busbar of the power bus system. In the illustrated embodiment, bottom electrical terminals 220-i are formed to insert into a busbar having a slot, such as a slotted busbar or a hybrid busbar.

[0079] Front electrical terminals 230-i are arranged in the front 103 of housing 100, which is also formed in the lower housing member 120 for most of it. The front 103 is oriented perpendicular to the top 101 and bottom 109, connecting the top 101 and bottom 109. The front electrical terminals 230-i are configured to each accommodate conductive members 240-1, 240-2, and 240-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 240-i), shown here as power cables. Typically, power is supplied at the busbar, and therefore power is supplied to the front electrical terminals 230-i by the switchgear 1000 through its electrical path and fuses for further distribution. However, the switchgear 1000 can also be used to feed power to the busbar system, i.e., to supply power from the front electrical terminals 230-i to the bottom electrical terminals 220-i.

[0080] The front side 103 is arranged opposite the rear side 105 of the housing 100, and is also formed as part of the lower housing component 120 for most of it. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating element 150 is arranged on the rear side 105, adjacent to the top side 101.

[0081] The openings for the fuse holder 210-i, like the fuse receiving space that accommodates the fuse holder 210-i, are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction L, which is perpendicular to the width W and depth D of the switching device 1000. The extension (length) of the switching device 1000 along the longitudinal direction L is greater than the depth D, and the depth D is greater than its width W.

[0082] The width W of the switching device 1000 of the present invention is particularly advantageous because it is significantly smaller than the width of similar prior art devices. Specifically, the width W can be 27 mm or less, 26 mm or less, preferably 24 mm or less, particularly preferably 23 mm or less, and most preferably 22.5 mm or less. As previously mentioned, this can be achieved by using an intermediate component between the upper housing component 110 and the lower housing component 120, which will be described in more detail below.

[0083] Similarly, due to the specific design of the intermediate component 300, the switching device 1000 may also have a shorter length L in the longitudinal direction than conventional switching devices. For example, the length may be 190 mm or less, preferably 180 mm or less, more preferably 170 mm or less, and even more preferably 160 mm or less.

[0084] Figure 2A A view of a switching device 1000 with the upper housing component 110 removed (according to a first variant) is shown. Fuse holders 210-i are inserted into the housing 100, and each is accommodated in a corresponding fuse receiving space 250-1, 250-2, 250-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 250-i). The main portion of the fuse receiving space 250-i, as well as various other structures shown, is formed by an insulating intermediate component 300, which is made of, for example, a plastic material, and is bonded to the housing 100 in at least some portions by interfacial bonding.

[0085] In the following description, several parts of the intermediate component 300 will be described. Because this is a preferred variation, these parts of the intermediate component 300 will generally be described as being integrally formed with each other, i.e., integrally formed with the entire intermediate component 300 itself. For example, the entire intermediate component 300 can be produced by injection molding. However, it should be understood that, as mentioned above, in other variations, some parts of the intermediate component 300 can be formed separately and subsequently arranged together within the housing 100. They can be joined together therein, preferably by interfacial bonding.

[0086] Each fuse receiving space 250-i is defined by corresponding front wall portions 311-1, 311-2, 311-3 (hereinafter collectively referred to as 311-i) of the intermediate member 300 in the direction toward the front side 103 of the housing 100, and by corresponding rear wall portions 312-1, 312-2, 312-3 (hereinafter collectively referred to as 312-i) in the direction toward the rear side 105 of the housing 100. Preferably, the front wall portions 311-i and the rear wall portions 312-i are all integrally formed with each other, or are distributed in pairs throughout the switching device 1000.

[0087] Figure 2A It is also shown that the switching function of the switching device 1000 is provided by the linkage shifting mechanism 400. The linkage shifting mechanism 400 is accommodated to be movable in the longitudinal direction L. Figure 2A In the illustrated state, the electrical path is closed, meaning that the bottom electrical terminal 220-i is electrically connected to the front electrical terminal 230-i via a fuse in the fuse holder 210-i. The electrical path passes through the various switch bridges 410-1, 410-2, and 410-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 410-i) installed in the linkage shifting mechanism 400. The switch bridges 410-1, 410-2, and 410-3 can be fixedly mounted to the linkage shifting mechanism 400, or they can be movably mounted and prestressed by springs.

[0088] The linkage shifting mechanism 400 is preloaded by one or more preloaded springs (e.g., coil springs) to a position where the electrical path is broken, i.e. Figure 2A At the top of the page. However, it is clearly visible how the actuating element 150 is actuated, causing the actuating wheel 151 to rotate clockwise. Connected to the actuating wheel 151 is the actuating rod 152, which is pressed against the bottom side 109 of the housing 100 when the actuating wheel 151 rotates clockwise. As a result, the knee lever 153 pivots and is pressed past its dead point, abutting against the curved nose 154 provided at the linkage shifting mechanism 400, thereby pushing the linkage shifting mechanism 400 against its bias towards the front side 103 of the housing 100, thereby closing the electrical path via the switch bridge 410-i.

[0089] The mechanism is highly robust and is released only when the actuating element 150 is actuated again, allowing the actuating wheel 151 to rotate counterclockwise again. When this occurs, the linkage shifting mechanism 400 is pushed against the rear side 105 of the housing 100 by at least one of its preloaded springs (preferably one preloaded spring near each switch bridge 410-i), pulling the switch bridges 410-i away from their corresponding portions in the electrical path, thereby disconnecting the electrical path. Additionally, a return spring can be provided that pushes the linkage shifting mechanism 400 into its resting disconnected position after the contacts at the switch bridge 140-i have opened. Other preloaded springs 155, such as leaf springs, can be provided. Together with the knee lever 153, the preloaded springs can be used to select the desired hysteresis bias, i.e., the force that must be overcome to disconnect the electrical path of the switching device 1000. The user only needs to overcome the peak of the spring force, after which the switching device 1000 is activated, and the user cannot stop it.

[0090] exist Figure 2A In the variant shown, when the actuating wheel 151 has already rotated clockwise (e.g. Figure 2A As shown), the electrical path is closed (causing the switch 1000 to turn on), that is, the bottom electrical terminal 220-i is electrically connected to the front electrical terminal 230-i via a fuse in the fuse holder 210-i. Conversely, when the actuating wheel 151 rotates counterclockwise, the electrical paths are electrically disconnected from each other (thus the switch 1000 is turned off).

[0091] However, the arrangement can also be reversed: Figure 2B Another second variation is shown, in which clockwise rotation of the actuating wheel 151 disconnects the electrical path, while counterclockwise rotation of the actuating wheel 151 (by means of...) Figure 2B The position shown indicates that pushing the manual actuation element 150 upward closes the electrical path. In this variation, the manual actuation element 150 and the actuation wheel 151 may be integrally formed, or at least rigidly connected to each other, such that pushing the manual actuation element 150 causes the actuation wheel to pivot about the rotation axis of the actuation wheel 151.

[0092] Figure 2B The orientation of the switch device 1000 shown can correspond to a preferred or forced installation orientation, wherein the rear side 105 faces upward and the front side 103 faces downward (i.e., towards the floor), and the longitudinal direction L of the switch device is parallel to the direction of gravity. Therefore, connecting the electrical path is accomplished by pushing the manual actuation element 150 upward, and disconnecting the electrical path is accomplished by pushing the manual actuation element 150 downward to... Figure 2BThis arrangement is completed in the position shown. This arrangement may correspond to local (e.g., national) specifications or standards (e.g., UL 98A) and / or may be considered safer in some applications, such as reducing the risk of accidentally turning on the switch device 1000 due to unintentional or careless actions or movements.

[0093] Although most of the other figures below will describe Figure 2A A variation thereof, but it should be understood that the same technical features and details also apply. Figure 2B Variations. Technicians are free to choose between these two variations (or other variations) based on, for example, the desired application and local regulations. It should also be noted that other features or components of the switching device 1000 are not subject to... Figure 2A and Figure 2B The influence of variant selection between them.

[0094] The surface of the switch bridge 410-i faces the front side 103 of the housing. On one side, it contacts and connects to the conductive rails 221-1, 221-2, and 221-3 of the bottom electrical terminal 220-i, and on the other side, it contacts and connects to the conductive rail of the corresponding base contact terminal of one of the fuse holders 210-i. When the linkage shifting mechanism 400 retracts to the open state of the switch device 1000, the electrical path is broken, and a gap distance is formed between the bridging element 410-i and the conductive rail on either side.

[0095] The linkage shifting mechanism 400 itself includes multiple segmented sections 411-1, 411-2. As can be clearly seen from Figure 2, when the linkage shifting mechanism 400 retracts, the segmented sections 411-1, 411-2 are closer to the conductive rails 221-2 and 221-3 (preferably overlapping with the conductive rails 221-2 and 221-3), thus effectively widening the gap distance and extending any creepage distance. Specifically, the segmented sections 411-1, 411-2 are inserted between each pair of consecutive switch bridges 410-i to increase the creepage distance between them, particularly when the switching device 1000 is turned on. Each segmented section 411-1, 411-2 includes multiple segments, with a corresponding groove arranged between every two segments, which completely surrounds the circumference of the linkage shifting mechanism 400 to increase the creepage distance.

[0096] The linkage shifting mechanism 400 itself is housed within the linkage shifting mechanism receiving portion 340 of the intermediate component 300 and a portion of the upper housing component 110, which will be described in more detail below.

[0097] The switching device 1000 also includes locking mechanisms 510-1, 510-2, 510-3 (hereinafter collectively referred to as 510-i) for each front electrical terminal 230-i, for locking the corresponding conductive member 240-i thereon. Preferably, each locking mechanism 510-i is housed in a corresponding locking mechanism portion 350-1, 350-2, 350-3 (hereinafter collectively referred to as 350-i) of the intermediate component 300. Preferably, the locking mechanism portions 350-i are integrally formed with each other, and particularly preferably also integrally formed with the linkage shifting mechanism receiving portion 340 and / or the foremost front wall portion 311-1.

[0098] For completeness, Figure 2 also shows two latching elements 222-1 and 222-2 for releasably latching the switch 1000 onto the contact protection grid of the bus system (not shown) to provide additional grip.

[0099] Figure 3 The intermediate component 300 is shown in the same orientation as in Figure 2, without any other elements or parts of the switching device 1000. It is evident how all the aforementioned portions of the intermediate component 300 are integrally formed with each other. This greatly facilitates the assembly of the switching device 1000, except for eliminating unnecessary gaps during closure, as the intermediate component 300 can be integrally inserted into the lower housing component 120 and subsequently materially bonded to the lower housing component 120 and / or the upper housing component 110.

[0100] Figure 3 It is also clearly shown how, in two pairs of adjacent front and rear wall portions 312-1 / 311-2, 312-2 / 311-3, the corresponding rear wall portions 312-1, 312-2 are preferably connected to the corresponding front wall portions 311-2, 311-3 via corresponding top-side rib-like portions 313-1, 313-2 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 313-i) of the intermediate member 300. The top-side rib-like portion 313-i connects the top-side ends of the front wall portions 311-2, 311-3 and the rear wall portions 312-1, 312-2, and includes (or consists of) a top side 101 facing the housing 100 (i.e., Figure 3 (From center to right) Protruding ribs. These ribs are used to increase the creepage distance between fuse housing spaces 250-1 and 250-2 or 250-2 and 250-3.

[0101] Figure 3 It is also shown that the linkage shifting mechanism receiving portion 340 of the intermediate component 300 includes at least one rib-like section, here three rib-like sections 341-1, 341-2, and 341-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 341-i). The first rib-like section 341-1 is arranged such that its ribs protrude toward the front side 103 of the housing 100.

[0102] By comparing with Figure 2, it is clear that the first rib section 341-1 is adapted to and tightly adheres (in contact or not in contact) to the conductive rail 221-1 connected in the first bottom electrical terminal 220-1. Its ribs (here: two ribs) extend parallel to the width W of the switching device 1000 and protrude from the contact point between the conductive rail 221-1 and the first switch bridge 410-1. The primary function of the rib section 341-i is to receive and disperse the forces applied by the switch bridge 410-i and / or the linkage shifting mechanism 400.

[0103] The other two rib sections 341-2 and 341-3 are arranged adjacent to the conductive rails 221-2 and 221-3 of the second and third bottom electrical terminals 220-2 and 220-3, respectively (see Figure 2). However, in these cases, their ribs (here: five ribs each) extend parallel to the width W, but protrude toward the linkage shifting mechanism 400, and also protrude parallel to the surface of the conductive rail 221-i and the surface of the bridging element 410-i, which is configured to contact when the switching device 1000 is in the closed state.

[0104] Figure 2 also shows that in each state of the switching device 1000, the rib sections 341-2 and 341-3 at least partially overlap with the segmented sections 411-1 and 411-2 of the linkage shifting mechanism 400 along the longitudinal direction L, thereby forming a labyrinth structure that increases the creepage distance and reduces the gap distance. The segment length of the segmented sections 411-1 and 411-2 along the longitudinal direction L can be equal to the length of the distance between two adjacent ribs of the rib sections 341-2 and 341-3.

[0105] Figure 2, especially Figure 3 It is also shown that the intermediate component 300 may be further formed with front rib-shaped portions 351-1, 351-2, and 351-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 351-i), which further increases the creepage distance. The front rib-shaped portions 351-i are preferably integrally formed with the locking mechanism portion 350-i.

[0106] Figure 4 A slightly rotated three-dimensional view of the intermediate component 300 is shown, illustrating some additional components of the switching device 1000 to explain how the fuses are contacted. Here, each fuse receiving space 250-i has been selected to show different components; however, it should be understood, for example, as can be clearly seen from Figure 2, that virtually all fuse receiving spaces 250-i will include all these components.

[0107] Shown in the first fuse receiving space 250-1 is a first base contact terminal 261-1, used to contact the first terminal of the fuse when the fuse is inserted into the fuse holder 210-1 and the fuse holder 210-1 is inserted into the fuse receiving space 250-1. The first base contact terminal 261-1 is integrally formed with a protrusion 262-1, which is arranged substantially perpendicular to the first base contact terminal 261-1. When the switching device 1000 is in the closed state, the protrusion 262-1 provides a connection surface for the bridging element 410-1. Therefore, the protrusion 262-1 and the first base contact terminal 261-1 are part of a conductive rail that electrically connects the bridging element 410-1 to the fuse in the first fuse receiving space 250-1.

[0108] In order to contact the other terminal of the fuse, the fuse holder 210-1 includes a crown contact terminal 269-1, which is integrally formed with a protrusion guided through the first front wall portion 311-1, thereby continuing the electrical path from the first bottom electrical terminal 220-1 to the first front electrical terminal 230-1.

[0109] To ensure a reliable electrical connection, a base contact spring plunger 263-2 is provided (shown here only in the second fuse receiving space 250-2). This base contact spring plunger 263-2 is further biased by a base contact spring element 264-3 (shown here only in the third fuse receiving space 250-3). Pre-biased (or: pre-loaded) base contact spring plunger 263-2 is also advantageous because the fuse length is subject to tolerances, requiring some clearance between the base contact terminal 261-i and the crown contact terminal 269-i of each fuse.

[0110] The base contact spring 264-3 is preferably formed as a helical spring, and the base contact spring plunger 263-2 can be formed as a semi-cylindrical shell surrounding the base contact spring element 264-3. Therefore, the base contact spring plunger 263-2 is biased by the base contact spring element 264-3 to press against the base contact end 261-1, thus the base contact end 261-1 is biased to press against the first contact of the fuse. Conversely, the fuse is thus pressed against the crown contact terminal 269-1, where the force is received by the fuse holder 210-i and then dissipated through the intermediate member 300.

[0111] As is best seen in the third fuse receiving space 250-3 and partly in the second fuse receiving space 250-2, the intermediate component 300 is provided with spring plunger guide portions 360-2, 360-3, which are essentially formed as open-ended cylindrical shells that contact the spring plunger 263-2 around their respective bases for guiding its movement along the axial direction A of each fuse receiving space 250-i. Preferably, the spring plunger guide portions 360-2, 360-3 of the intermediate component 300 connect their front wall portion 311-i to their rear wall portion 312-i at the bottom end of each fuse receiving space 250-i. More preferably, the spring plunger guide portions 360-2, 360-3 are integrally formed with the other portions of the intermediate component 300, particularly with the front wall portion 311-i and the rear wall portion 312-i to which they are connected.

[0112] Figure 4 It is also shown that the front wall portion 311-i and / or the rear wall portion 312-i may be provided with rib structures 315-1, 315-2, 315-3, 316-1, 316-2 on their respective outer sides, which refers to the side away from the fuse receiving space 250-i defined by the respective front wall portion 311-i or rear wall portion 312-i. The rib structures 315-1, 315-2, 315-3, 316-1, 316-2 are mainly used to stabilize the fuse receiving space 250-i.

[0113] In the example shown, the rib structures 315-1, 315-2, and 315-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 315-i) of the front wall portion 311-i are each provided with six ribs, which extend along the width W direction of the switching device 1000 and protrude toward the front side 103 of the housing 100. The rib structures 316-1 and 316-2 of the first rear wall portion and the second rear wall portion 312-1 and 312-2 are each shown here with four ribs, which extend along the width W direction and protrude toward the rear side 105 of the housing 100.

[0114] Figure 4 It is also shown that, in the space between the two fuse receiving spaces 250-i, the rear wall portions 312-1, 312-2 of the preceding (along the longitudinal direction L) fuse receiving spaces 250-1, 250-2 are connected to the front wall portions 311-2, 311-3 of the following (along the longitudinal direction L) fuse receiving spaces 250-2, 250-3 via (generally strip-shaped) plate portions 319-1, 319-2. Each plate portion 319-1, 319-2 extends substantially perpendicular to the rear wall portion 312-i and the front wall portion 311-i, i.e., their planes are parallel to the longitudinal direction L and the depth direction D, and perpendicular to the width direction W.

[0115] Plate portions 319-1 and 319-2 connect adjacent front wall portions 311-i and rear wall portions 312-i, and are preferably integrally formed with them. Plate portions 319-1 and 319-2 are substantially (+ / - 20%) or precisely arranged at the center of the intermediate member 300 along the width W direction, and divide the space between the fuse receiving spaces 250-i into (partially) two independent chambers in the width W direction: an upper chamber 117 oriented towards the upper housing member 110. Figure 4 (visible in the middle) and the lower chamber 127 oriented toward the lower housing component 120 ( Figure 5 (As can be seen below). As will be described below, the lower chamber 127 is used to accommodate additional conductive rails for connecting the crown contact terminal 269-i to the front electrical terminal 230-i. Therefore, the plate portions 319-1, 319-2 close (or at least increase) the clearance distance around these additional conductive rails.

[0116] Preferably, plate portions 319-1 and 319-2 are integrally formed and connected to the linkage shifting mechanism receiving portion 340 of the intermediate component 300, particularly to the lower housing component sidewall 349 connected to the linkage shifting mechanism receiving portion 340. This wall 349 preferably separates the entire linkage shifting mechanism receiving portion 340 from the lower chamber 127 and is coplanar with plate portions 319-1 and 319-2. More preferably, the wall 349 extends from the third locking mechanism portion 350-3 to the rear side 105 of the switching device 1000, forming a substantially (or completely) uninterrupted partition wall between the upper chamber 117 and the lower chamber 127.

[0117] Figure 5 It shows the relationship with Figure 4 In contrast, a slightly rotated three-dimensional view of the intermediate part 300 as viewed from the other side (i.e., from one side of the lower housing part 120).

[0118] from Figure 5 As can be clearly seen, the outer sides of the front wall portion 311-i and the rear wall portion 312-i in the lower chamber 127 (i.e., between the intermediate component 300 and the lower housing component 120) may also include rib-like structures 317-i, which may be substantially or precisely mirror images of the rib-like structures 315-i in the upper chamber (i.e., between the intermediate component 300 and the upper housing component 110), wherein the plate portion 319-1 may serve as the mirror plane. In the illustrated embodiment, the front wall portion 311-i also includes ventilation openings 318-i in the lower chamber 127, which allow heat to convect within the housing 100 (specifically the lower chamber 127) and eventually reach the outside.

[0119] Figure 5The linkage shifting mechanism receiving portion 340 of the intermediate component 300 is also shown, which helps to divide the space between the upper housing component 110 and the lower housing component 120 into an upper chamber 117 and a lower chamber 127, and is integrally formed with plate portions 319-1, 319-2. The linkage shifting mechanism receiving portion 340 and the plate portions 319-1, 319-2 together cover at least about 50% of the LD cross section (i.e., the cross section parallel to the longitudinal direction L and the depth direction D) of the housing 100.

[0120] from Figure 5 It is also evident that when the fuse holder 210-i is inserted into the fuse receiving space 250-i, the largest opening in the intermediate component 300 between the upper chamber 117 and the lower chamber 127 is occupied by the fuse holder 210-i and is therefore substantially (or completely) closed. The second largest opening in the intermediate component 300 between the upper chamber 117 and the lower chamber 127 is located in the area of ​​the locking mechanism portion 350-i and is therefore occupied by the locking mechanism and is thus substantially (or completely) occupied and closed by the locking mechanism (as described later).

[0121] The plate portions 319-1, 319-2 and the linkage shifting mechanism receiving portion 340 form the guide rail guiding portions 321-2, 321-3 of the intermediate component 300. The guide rail guiding portions 321-2, 321-3 are configured to receive conductive rails 271-2, 271-3 leading from the crown contact element 291-1 to the corresponding front electrical terminal 230-i. Figure 5 (Only schematically shown as dashed lines). The guide rail guide portions 321-2, 321-3 at least partially surround the conductive rails 271-2, 271-3 on three sides, wherein the fourth side may be closed by the lower housing component 120.

[0122] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of some internal components of the switching device 1000, as seen from the top side 101 of the housing 100, is shown. The dashed line in the middle represents the intermediate component 300. Figure 6 (Not shown in the image) The position that separates the upper chamber 117 inside the housing 100 from the lower chamber 127 inside the housing.

[0123] The upper chamber 117 houses the linkage shifting mechanism 400 and the electrical path from the bottom electrical terminal 220-i to the fuse receiving space 250-i, indicated here by the base contact spring plungers 263-1, 263-2, and 362-3 shown. The lower chamber 127 houses the conductive rails 271-2 and 271-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 271-i), which electrically connect the crown contact terminal 269-1 to the front electrical terminal 230-i.

[0124] The provision of an insulating intermediate component 300 in the middle, separating the upper chamber 117 and the lower chamber 127, is one of the features that allows these electrical paths to be arranged so close to each other in the width W direction of the housing 100, which helps to make the width W of the housing 100 very small compared to the prior art.

[0125] Figure 6 This also illustrates how the conductive rail 271-i terminates at contact ends 272-1, 272-2, 272-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 272-i), which are used to contact the corresponding protrusions of the respective crown contact terminals 269-1. To ensure reliable electrical contact here as well, the ends may also be slightly movably or pivotally supported, and corresponding spring members 273-1, 273-2, 273-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 273-i) may be provided to bias the corresponding contact ends 273-i toward the protrusions of the corresponding crown contact terminals 269-1.

[0126] Figure 7 A schematic side view of some internal components of the switching device 1000, as seen from the lower housing component 120, is shown. In a sense, Figure 7 yes Figure 5 The supplement is because they show the intermediate part 300 without surrounding elements from the same angle. Figure 5 ) and surrounding elements without intermediate component 300 ( Figure 7 ).

[0127] Figure 7 The complete electrical path from the bottom electrical terminal 220-i to the front electrical terminal 230-i is shown: starting from the bottom electrical terminal 220-i itself, passing through the conductive rail 221-i, to the bridging element 410-i, from the bridging element 410-i to the protrusion 262-i of the base contact terminal 261-i and the base contact terminal 261-i itself, then to the first terminals 269-2, 269-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 269-i) of the fuses 270-1, 270-2, 270-3 and their corresponding protrusions 274-1, 274-2, 274-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 274-i); from the protrusions, through the contact end 272-i, into the conductive rail 271-i, and finally reaching the front electrical terminal 230-i.

[0128] In particular Figure 7 The shape of the conductive rail 271-i in the middle is similar to Figure 5 A comparison with the guide rail portion 321-i of the intermediate component 300 will illustrate how the conductive rails 271-i are safely insulated from each other through the intermediate component 300 (and the lower part of the housing 120), which also provides the necessary clearance and creepage distance for any other current-carrying elements of the switching device 1000.

[0129] Figure 8 The selection of components in the switching device 1000 is shown to illustrate how external conductive elements 240-i are inserted, electrically contacted, secured, and released in the switching device 1000.

[0130] For this purpose, each locking mechanism 510-i includes a locking actuator 520-1 and a locking leaf spring 530-1. Although only the first locking actuator 520-1, housed in the first locking mechanism portion 350-1, is shown, it should be understood that all the features described with respect to the first locking actuator also apply to the other locking actuators 520-2, 520-3 in the other locking mechanism portions 350-2, 350-3.

[0131] exist Figure 8 In the illustration, as an example, the external conductive element 240-i is shown as a copper cable with a square cross-section, although other types of external conductive elements 240-i may also be used. The exposed conductive end of each external conductive element 240-i can be inserted into the switching device 1000 through corresponding front openings 129-1, 129-2, 129-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 129-i) within the front side 103 of the housing (see also...). Figure 15 (and its description below). Inside the switching device 1000, each external conductive element 240-i then contacts a corresponding conductive rail 271-i.

[0132] For this purpose, each conductive rail 271-i's front end portion 277-1, 277-2, 277-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 277-i) is provided with a straight section 278-1, 278-2, 278-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 278-i), which terminates at the tip of the front end portion 277-i with a hook-shaped section 279-1, 279-2, 279-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 279-i). Basically, the straight section 278-i forms the main component of each front electrical terminal 230-i.

[0133] Each straight segment 278-i is arranged (and guided / held by a corresponding guide rail portion 271-i to maintain this arrangement) parallel to the external conductive element 240-i it is intended to contact. The straight segments 278-i are aligned with the direction in which the external conductive element 240-i is inserted into the housing, which in turn is aligned with the longitudinal direction L of the switching device 1000. To ensure a robust and reliable electrical and mechanical connection between each external conductive element 240-i inserted into the switching device 1000 and its corresponding conductive rail 271-i, a corresponding locking mechanism 510-i is provided, as described below. The locking mechanism 510-i also provides maintenance-free locking of the external conductive element 240-i: continuous pressure is applied to it even if the external conductive element 240-i settles after a period of time.

[0134] The main component enabling strong electrical and mechanical connections is the corresponding locking leaf spring 530-i. Figure 8 In the third locking mechanism section 350-3, a third locking leaf spring 530-3 is schematically shown, which is shaped without the insertion of the external conductive element 240-3 and without any locking actuator 520-3. In the second locking mechanism section 350-2, the second locking leaf spring 530-2 is shown in a retracted state, with the second external conductive element 240-2 inserted and held. In the first locking mechanism section 350-1, the interaction and engagement between the elements of the first locking mechanism 510-1 are shown.

[0135] Figure 9 A schematic close-up view of the shape of each locking leaf spring 530-i is shown. The locking leaf spring 530-i is typically a flat strip forming a closed loop: its first end 531-i includes a window 532-i, which is defined at the very tip of the first end 531-i by a rod member 533-i. The first end 531-i connects to a first arm 535-i of the locking leaf spring 530-i after a first pole 534-i. At a second pole 536-i, the first arm 535-i merges into a second arm 537-i, which terminates at a second end 539-i of the locking leaf spring 530-i. At its very tip, the second end 539-i is provided with a protruding tab 538-i.

[0136] The first arm 535-i and the second arm 537-i are angled at the second pole 536-i, such that the protruding tab 538-i of the second end 539-i is inserted into the window 532-i of the first end 531-i. Further movement of the protruding tab into the window 532-i is restricted because the remainder of the second end 539-i extends in a stepped fashion beyond the protruding tab 538-i to the full width of the locking leaf spring 530-i, preventing it from passing through the window 532-i. The bending of the locking leaf spring 530-i at the first pole 534-i and the second pole 536-i generates an outward force that presses the protruding tab 538-i against the rod member 533-i. Typically, the locking leaf spring 530-i can be roughly described as being bent into a triangular shape, with three sides being the first end 531-i with window 532-i, the first arm 535-i and the second arm 537-i, and three corners being the first pole 534-i (rounded corner), the second pole 536-i (another rounded corner), and the point where the protruding tab 538-i intersects with the rod member 533-i.

[0137] Back Figure 8 As can be seen in the third locking mechanism section 350-3, the front end 277-3 of the conductive rail 271-3 passes through the window 532-3 in the third locking leaf spring 530-3, between its second arm 537-3 and its rod member 533-3. The second arm 537-3 is arranged to fully press against the straight section 278-3. The hook-shaped portion 279-3 supports the tip of the protruding tab 538-i and prevents its movement in one direction. In this case, the locking leaf spring 530-3 is firmly attached to the front end 279-3 due to the spring force it applies.

[0138] The insertion of the external conductive element 240-i will now be described via the second locking leaf spring 530-2 and the second external conductive element 240-2. For example... Figure 8 As shown, in order to insert the external conductive element 240-i into the window 532-2 of the second locking leaf spring 530-2, the window 532-2 must be moved so that its larger portion is located on the other side of the conductive rail 271-2. To achieve this, a force must be applied to the first arm 535-2 toward the conductive rail 271-2 (or toward...). Figure 8 (The right side). This is achieved by locking actuator 520-i, which will be described below.

[0139] Figure 8It is also shown that the intermediate component 300 has three small notches 352-i into which the rod members 533-i of the locking leaf springs 530-i enter, and these notches prevent any further movement of the rod members 533-i when the window 532-i is pushed open (i.e., to the right). The intermediate component 300 also provides corresponding abutments against which each locking leaf spring 530-i abuts. The intermediate component 300 also provides corresponding protrusions 354-2, 354-3 within the locking mechanism portion 350-i for at least one locking leaf spring 530-i (here: for the second and third locking leaf springs 530-2, 530-3), the tips of the corresponding hook-shaped portions 279-i of which can abut.

[0140] Figure 10 The function of the locking actuator 520-i is shown, again using the first locking actuator 520-1 and the second locking actuator 520-2 as examples. Figure 11 and Figure 12 The shape of the locking actuator 520-i is shown from two different angles. The shape of the locking actuator 520-i closely corresponds in its region to the internal shape of the upper housing component 110 and the internal shape of the lower housing component 120. Each locking actuator 520-i includes a hole 524-i into which one or more portions of the corresponding shaft are inserted from one or both sides to allow pivoting movement.

[0141] Figure 13 The interior of the upper housing component 110 of the housing 100 of the switching device 1000 is shown. Figure 14 The interior of the lower housing component 120 of the housing 100 of the switching device 1000 is shown.

[0142] The locking mechanism portion 350-i is shaped such that the locking actuator 520-i therein is pivotable about a corresponding pivot axis 140-i. In the illustrated embodiment, the corresponding axis 141-i for this pivoting movement is partially (e.g., half-formed) in the upper housing portion 110 (see [link to example]). Figure 13 And partially (e.g., half) formed in the lower housing component 120 (see...) Figure 14 (Although other variations are possible, for example, depending on the manufacturing method.) In the example shown, the second and third locking mechanism portions 350-2, 350-3 are substantially formed as an asymmetrical bell shape, wherein the locking actuator 520-i can abut against either arm of the bell shape at its ultimate pivot position. Each locking actuator 520-i and the corresponding shaft 141-i are shaped such that a predetermined amount of clearance exists, allowing the locking actuator 520-i to move to an eccentric position relative to the pivot axis 140-i.

[0143] exist Figure 10 In the diagram, the first locking actuator 520-1 is shown in the locked position, wherein the corresponding locking leaf spring 530-1 is pressed, thereby allowing the insertion or release of the external conductive element 240-1. The second locking actuator 520-2 is shown in the released position, wherein the locking leaf spring 530-2 is not pressed by the locking actuator 520-2, or is pressed by the locking actuator 520-2 to a minimum, so that its rod member 533-2 forcefully pulls the external conductive element 240-2 against the conductive rail 271-2.

[0144] Perhaps the most distinctive feature of each locking actuator 520-i is its prominent nose-like protrusion 521-i: a flat protrusion that projects substantially vertically from the body of the locking actuator 520-i. The nose-like protrusion 521-i... Figure 11 The locking actuator 520-i is best visible in the center. The entire locking actuator 520-i is made of a single piece (or integrally) of a plastic material with a predetermined degree of elasticity. Therefore, the nose-shaped protrusion 521-i can be slightly bent without breaking, and when bent, it applies a force that tends to restore it to its unbent shape.

[0145] Back Figure 10 All locking mechanism portions 350-i of the intermediate component 300 are provided with recessed structures 355-i. The recessed structures 355-i are sufficiently deep and wide (in the width W direction of the switching device 1000) to accommodate the nose-shaped protrusion 521-i when the locking actuator 520-i is in the locked position, such as... Figure 10 The first locking actuator 520-1 is shown in the figure.

[0146] The recessed structure 355-i includes or is composed of two parts: 1) an opening 356-i, which terminates at 2) a latching portion 357-i. The cross-section of the opening 356-i decreases from its opening (entry into the locking mechanism portion 350-i) toward the latching portion 357-i. The latching portion 357-i has a latching wall 358-i, which is angled such that when the locking actuator 520-i pivots toward the recessed structure 355-i, the nose-shaped protrusion 521-i must bend toward the front side 101 of the housing to allow the locking actuator 520-i to complete its pivoting movement and terminate in the locked position, with the tip of the nose-shaped protrusion 521-i abutting against the latching wall 358-i.

[0147] The elastic force applied by the curved nose-shaped protrusion 521-i pushes (or pulls) the locking actuator 520-i to a (slightly) off-center position, such as Figure 10The first locking actuator 520-1 is shown in the diagram. The term "eccentric" in this document can be understood as meaning that the center of rotation of the locking actuator 520-i (e.g., the center of rotation of the hole 524-i) coincides with the pivot axis 140-i in the released position, but no longer coincides with the pivot axis 140-i in the eccentric position. Similarly, in the eccentric position, the locking actuator 520-i will no longer be precisely aligned with the bell-shaped top of the locking mechanism portion 350-i.

[0148] When research Figure 11 and Figure 12 The shape of the locking actuator 520-i shown and Figure 13 and 14 When the housing shape shown is given, the function of the mechanism will be obvious: in the width W direction, latching protrusions are formed on both outer sides of each locking actuator 520-i. Figure 11 An upper latching protrusion 522-i facing the upper housing component 110 is shown. Figure 12 A (larger) lower latch protrusion 523-i facing the lower housing component 120 is shown. The two latch protrusions 522-i, 523-i are substantially rectangular, wherein the long side of the rectangle may have a defined curvature.

[0149] Accordingly, the upper housing component 110 is formed with an upper latch profile 112-i for the corresponding upper latch protrusion 522-i of each locking actuator 520-i (see Figure 13 The lower housing component 120 is formed with a lower latch profile 123-i for a corresponding lower latch protrusion 523-i for each locking actuator 520-i. The upper latch profile 112-i and the lower latch profile 123-i are each formed in a (generally or precisely) axe shape, with the head (or blade) portion of the axe oriented toward the bottom side 109.

[0150] refer to Figure 13 Each of the upper latch profiles 112-i includes a first (or: handle) portion 114-i and a second (or: head) portion 116-i, which are separated by a step 115-i.

[0151] refer to Figure 14 Each of the lower latch profiles 123-i includes a first (or: handle) portion 124-i and a second (or: head) portion 115-i, which are separated by a step 114-i.

[0152] When any locking actuator 520-i is in the released position (e.g.) Figure 10As shown in the second locking actuator 520-2, its upper latch protrusion 522-i and lower latch protrusion 523-i abut against the first (or: handle) portions 114-i, 124-i of the corresponding upper latch profile 112-i and the corresponding lower latch profile 123-i. Therefore, the first (or: handle) portions 114-i, 124-i preferably have the same defined curvature as the latch protrusions 522-i, 523-i, and preferably correspond to a circular segment with respect to the pivot axis 140-i of the pivoting motion.

[0153] Then, as the locking actuator 520-i pivots toward the bottom side 109 of the housing 100, the latch protrusions 522-i and 523-i move toward the second (or: head) portions 116-i and 126-i of the latch profile. At some point during the pivoting motion, as previously described, the nose-shaped protrusion 521-i of the locking actuator 520-i engages the latch wall 538-i, such that the locking actuator 520-i is pushed toward the front side 103 of the housing 100. This moment corresponds to the position where the latch protrusions 522-i and 523-i have left the first (or: handle) portion 114-i. Pushing the locking actuator 520-i toward the front side 103 causes the latch protrusions 522-i and 523-i to be pushed into the second (or: head) portions 116-i and 126-i of the latch profiles 112-i and 123-i.

[0154] At this time, the locking actuator 520-i will be in the locked position (e.g., Figure 10 (As shown in the first locking actuator 520-1): Although its corresponding locking leaf spring 530-i will actuate to reverse the pivoting motion, the latch protrusions 522-i, 523-i are engaged (or locked) behind the steps 115-i, 125-i of the latch contours 112-i, 123-i. To return to the released position, the locking actuator 520-i must be pushed inward, i.e., toward the rear side 105 of the housing 100. In the locked state, this is prevented by the force exerted on the locking actuator 520-i by the curved nose-shaped protrusion 521-i.

[0155] Therefore, in order to return the locking actuator 520-i to the released state, the user must push the locking actuator 520-i inward back to its centered (i.e., non-eccentric) position relative to the pivot axis 140-i, sufficient to allow the latch protrusions 522-i, 523-i to overcome the steps 115-i, 125-i in the latch profiles 112-i, 123-i. This push must overcome the further resistance of the curved nose-shaped protrusion 521-i; preferably, the nose-shaped protrusion 521-i and the latch wall 538-i are designed so that this can be done without any tools, but must be done intentionally.

[0156] On the other hand, in order to put the locking actuator 520-i from the released state to the locked state, the user needs to overcome the spring force of the locking leaf spring 530-i and the bending resistance of the nose-shaped protrusion 521-i.

[0157] To facilitate the pivoting movement of the locking actuator 520-i to the locked position, each locking actuator 520-i is provided with an actuation slot 529-i. The actuation slot 529-i is located at the front end of the locking actuator 520-i, i.e., the end of each locking actuator 520-i protruding from the front side 103 of the housing 100. The actuation slot 529-i opens towards the top side 101 of the housing and is part of the section of the locking actuator 520-i protruding from the housing 100. Thus, when the switchgear 1000 is installed to the bus system at its bottom side 109, the front side 101 of the housing 100 provides all necessary access for the user: the front side 101 provides access to the fuse holder 210-i and the actuation slot 529-i.

[0158] Therefore, see Figure 10 A user who wishes to retrieve the external conductive element 240-2 from the switching device 1000 may insert the tip of a tool (e.g., a screwdriver) into the actuation slot 529-2 of the second locking actuator 520-2, thereby pushing and pivoting the second locking actuator 520-2 to its locked position.

[0159] As previously described, in the locked position of the locking actuator 520-i, the first arm 535-i of the locking leaf spring 530-i is pressed against the second arm 537-i, and the window 532-i is opened to the maximum extent, with the rod member 533-i closest to or even entering the notch 352-i. This allows for easy insertion or retrieval of the external conductive element 240-i.

[0160] These mechanisms enable the user to exert some effort, and preferably use a tool, to place the locking actuator 520-i in the locked position (where the external conductive element 240-i can be inserted or removed), while relatively easily returning the locking actuator 520-i to the released state, locking the external conductive element 240-i in place.

[0161] Figure 13 Incidentally, a portion of the ventilation concept of the invention is also shown, illustrating a plurality (here: three) ventilation inlets 118-1, 118-2, 118-3 (hereinafter collectively referred to as 118-i) within the upper housing component 110 for each fuse housing space 250-i, and a plurality (here: three) ventilation outlets 119-i for each fuse housing space 250-i. The corresponding external views of the inlets 118-i and outlets 119-i in the upper housing component 110 are provided by [the relevant source]. Figure 1Provided. From the inside, the ventilation outlet 119-i can be formed as a protruding structure (extending into the housing), such as a triangular protruding structure 119-3 or a rectangular protruding structure 119-1, 119-2.

[0162] In the ventilation inlet 118-i, the middle one (relative to the width W direction) is formed to be larger in the longitudinal direction L than the others, and partially overlaps with the corresponding fuse receiving space 250-i, particularly where a portion of the fuse 170-i is exposed in the fuse holder 210-i, such as... Figure 18 As shown later.

[0163] Figure 14 Ventilation openings 128-1, 128-2, and 128-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 128-i) within the lower housing component 120 are also shown, which can be formed in the same manner as the ventilation inlet 118-i in the upper housing component 110 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 13 ).

[0164] Figure 14 Additionally, guide portions 121-1, 121-2, and 121-3 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 121-i) of the lower housing component 120 are shown. These guide portions are configured to conform to and engage with the guide rail guide portion 321-i of the intermediate component 300. Figure 5 compared to).

[0165] Figure 15 It shows Figures 1 to 10 The front side 103 of the housing 100 in an exemplary embodiment. Figure 10 It is shown in particular how the front side 103 of the housing 100 is partially formed by the upper housing component 110, partially by the lower housing component 120 and partially by the front portion of the intermediate component 300, the front portion of the intermediate component 300 being sandwiched between the upper housing component 110 and the lower housing component 120.

[0166] The front opening 129-i is also partially (in this case, the main part) formed by the middle part 300 and partially formed by the lower housing part 120.

[0167] At the bottom side 109 of the housing 100, the bottom electrical terminal 220-1 (with other terminals located just behind it, in a straight line along the longitudinal direction L) is formed as a single-folded V-shaped tongue, which is configured to be inserted into a slot in the slotted busbar or a slot in the hybrid busbar.

[0168] On each side of the bottom electrical terminal 220-1 in the width W direction, a corresponding mechanical plug 223-1 is provided, separated by the bottom electrical terminal 220-1 by an identical slot interval SI. Figure 10It is also shown that the width W of the switching device 1000 corresponds to approximately (or precisely) five times the slot spacing SI, such that multiple switching devices 1000 can be arranged adjacent to each other along the busbar in the width W direction without any dead space between them.

[0169] The illustrated embodiment, particularly concerning the form of the bottom-side electrical terminal 220-i and the mechanical plug 223-1, is compatible with slotted busbars or hybrid busbars (which include both current-carrying and slotted profile portions). It should be understood that the switchgear 1000 can also be configured to be compatible with other types of busbars, such as solid busbars. In this case, the bottom-side electrical terminal will typically include contact elements that contact the front surface of the solid busbar (relative to the switchgear 1000).

[0170] In addition, electrical and / or mechanical hook-shaped elements may be provided for gripping the edge of the solid busbar, such that the switchgear 1000 can be suspended from the solid busbar, for example, at the hook-shaped elements. The hook-shaped elements may be formed to be conductive so as to provide additional electrical contact on the edge and / or rear surface of the solid busbar (relative to the switchgear 1000) in addition to mechanical stability.

[0171] Because the hybrid busbar has the advantage of providing two connection types, the same elements and concepts described above for the solid busbar can also be applied to the current-carrying (i.e., solid) profile of the switching device 1000 coupled to the hybrid busbar.

[0172] Figure 16 A three-dimensional view is shown, mainly showing Figures 1 to 10 The bottom side 109 of the housing 100 in an exemplary embodiment. Figure 16 It is shown how the bottom side 109 is formed primarily of the lower housing component 120, and only to a lesser extent of the upper housing component 110, the intermediate component 300, and optional side housing components 130.

[0173] As previously mentioned, since the intermediate component 300 is preferably made of a thermally conductive plastic material, it also acts as a cooling component: for example, it comes into contact with many of the components of the switching device 1000 that generate the most heat during use, through the guide rail portion 321-i for the conductive rail 271-i (and similar guide rail portions for the conductive rail 221-i). Due to its thermal conductivity, the intermediate component 300 thus transfers heat from the interior of the housing to the various rib structures. For example, on the front side 103 of the housing, the front rib portion 351-i helps to dissipate heat from the switching device 1000.

[0174] Alternatively or additionally, the intermediate member 300 may be provided with a bottom rib-like portion 359 on the outer side of the bottom side 109 of the housing 100. Furthermore, the various rib-like sections of the intermediate member 300 inside the housing 100 also radiate heat, heating the air inside the housing 100, which can then escape freely through ventilation slots, for example, as... Figure 1 This can be seen in the upper housing portion 110. Therefore, the intermediate component 300 advantageously provides guidance, cooling, insulation, support, and many other functions for the switching device 1000.

[0175] Figure 17 Details of the top side 101 of the housing 100 of the switching device 1000 are shown, without the side housing component 130. A side housing latch 139 is provided on the side of the lower housing component 120 opposite to the upper housing component 110 for locking the side housing component 130 thereon. Figure 15 The view in the middle is centered on the fuse holder opening 280-i, leading to a corresponding fuse receiving space 250-i.

[0176] Figure 17 It is also shown how the wall surrounding the fuse holder 210-i in the fuse receiving space 250-i is formed jointly by the upper housing component 110, the intermediate component 300, and the lower housing component 120. Wherever the two different components 110, 120, 300 meet, they can be joined together material-to-material, particularly by welding or bonding using ultrasonic plastic welding. This is particularly true on the intermediate component 300 side, especially the front wall portion 311-i and the rear wall portion 312-i.

[0177] The upper housing component 110 and the lower housing component 120 are also formed with latching teeth 281. The upper housing component 110 and the lower housing component 120 may also include a recess 282 on the outer contour of the fuse seat opening 280-i located on the front side 101, which may otherwise be circular.

[0178] Typically, fuse holder 210-i is along the axial direction A (see...). Figure 4 The fuses are inserted into the fuse receiving space 250-i at an angle (relative to rotation about the axial direction) to a position where they will be stationary and operational within the fuse receiving space 250-i. This angle is between 10° and 90°, preferably between 20° and 70°, more preferably between 30° and 60°, for example 35°.

[0179] The intermediate component 300 may be provided with a guide groove 370-i, which is arranged parallel to the axial direction A in each fuse receiving space 250-i, for guiding the movement of the fuse holder 210-i along the axial direction A.

[0180] Figure 18 A three-dimensional view of a fuse holder 210-i in which a cylindrical fuse 170-i is arranged is shown. Figure 18 It is shown how the fuse holder 210-i can be provided with at least one guide protrusion 283, which is configured to be inserted into the guide groove 370-i of the intermediate part 300.

[0181] Figure 19 A schematic diagram of the interior of the side housing component 130 in the variant is shown. Specifically, Figure 19 The switch device 1000 is shown from the side of the side housing component 130; however, the side housing component 130 itself has been removed, providing a view of its interior.

[0182] In the illustrated variant, the switching device 1000 is provided with an electric actuator, particularly an electric motor, for the switching function. Therefore, the switching function can be remotely controlled. For this purpose, the switching device 1000 may include a communication interface for receiving switching signals for switching the switching device 1000. The electric actuator may be provided as an attachment to or replacement of the (manual) actuation element 150 as described above. Preferably, both are provided, allowing the user to always turn off the switching device 1000 in an emergency. Advantageously, the electric actuator may be configured to rotate the actuation wheel 151.

[0183] In the variant shown, a linear motor 131 is disposed within the housing side 130. The linear motor is configured as a linearly moving shaft 132 (e.g., a threaded shaft), which in turn engages a gearbox. Here, as an example, the gearbox includes a first moving gear component 133 and a second moving gear component 610. The first moving gear component is actuated by the linearly moving shaft 132, converting linear force into (and utilizing leverage) rotational motion of gear teeth; the second moving gear component 610 receives rotational motion through its own teeth and converts it into rotational motion of an actuating wheel 151 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2A , Figure 2B The gearbox has sufficient clearance to allow the user to manually activate (manually) the actuating element 150, for example in an emergency, especially to shut off the switching device 1000.

[0184] The linear motor 131 can be controlled by electronic components within the side housing component 130, which may be arranged on, or controlled by, a printed circuit board 135 located within the side housing component 130. The printed circuit board 135 preferably has a communication interface for communicating with an external transceiver, such as via a communication fieldbus. Therefore, the printed circuit board 135 can be configured to receive switching signals for switching the switching device 1000, i.e., control signals for the electric actuator (here: the linear motor 131). The printed circuit board 135 may also have other functions. For example, it can provide monitoring functions for the switching device 1000, generating and / or transmitting status and / or monitoring data via the communication interface. For example, data regarding the current extension of the linear motor 131 can be output periodically or continuously via the communication interface, or can be queried.

[0185] Because electric actuators, such as linear motor 131, typically have a certain volume, the width of switching device 1000 can be larger than in other variations. However, all other things being equal, the present invention still allows switching device 1000 to have a width W much smaller than that of a hypothetical equivalent switching device. For example, the width W can be 49.5 mm, 49.2 mm, or smaller. For example, in one possible variation of a slotted busbar or hybrid busbar, a nominal width of 49.5 mm would correspond to 11 times the slot spacing SI of 4.5 mm. Considering tolerances, switching device 1000 can be formed with a width of, for example, 49.2 mm, to ensure that adjacent devices can be coupled to the same slot or hybrid busbar without losing the full slot spacing SI.

[0186] Figure 20 It shows Figure 19 A variation of the illustrated embodiment also includes a linear motor 131. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and unrelated to the preceding text.) Figure 19 similar, Figure 20 It also shows that the switch 1000 is in the ON state (or simply: ON state). By using the extension shaft 132 of the linear motor 131, the first moving gear component 133 moves counterclockwise in the illustration, causing the second moving gear component 610 to move clockwise, thereby putting the manual actuation element 150 (specifically the actuation wheel 151) into the OFF state (see...). Figure 21 ).

[0187] As mentioned earlier, especially regarding Figure 2B In some advantageous variations, the position of the manual actuation element 150 with respect to the on / off state is reversed. In this case, Figure 19 and Figure 20The switch device is shown in the off state, requiring the manual actuation element 150 to be moved upwards, preferably against gravity during installation, to turn on the switch device 1000. This will be explained in more detail below. Figure 20 The variations shown are, but it should be understood, Figure 2B Alternative arrangements can be applied in combination with any or all of the features described herein.

[0188] Figure 21 It shows Figure 20 The switch device 1000 is in the off state, and the shaft 132 is fully extended.

[0189] Figure 22 It shows Figure 20 and Figure 21 The switching device 1000 is in a state in which the linear motor 131, shaft 132, first moving gear component 133, and second moving gear component 610 are all (appearing to) correspond to Figure 20 The switch device 1000 is shown in the ON state, but it is actually in the OFF state, as can be seen from the position of the manual actuation element 150. This corresponds to an optional advantageous feature, according to which the switch device 1000 is configured such that even if the linear motor 131, the first moving gear component 133, and the second moving gear component 610 are all in the ON state, the switch device 1000 can be manually turned off using the manual actuation element 150.

[0190] Figures 23 to 30C The transmission mechanism 600, which transmits the linear motion of the linear motor 131 to the manual actuation element 150 and / or the actuation wheel 151, will be explained in more detail.

[0191] Figure 23 An exploded view of some components of the transmission mechanism 600 is provided. The transmission mechanism 600 includes a second moving gear component 610, a first transmission component 620, a spring component 629, a second transmission component 630, and an actuating wheel 151.

[0192] In the illustrated embodiment, the actuation wheel 151 and the manual actuation element 150 are integrally formed. Alternatively, the manual actuation element 150 and the actuation wheel 151 may be formed separately but rigidly connected to each other.

[0193] The components of the transmission mechanism 600 are arranged in this order along an imaginary transmission axis T (i.e., an imaginary straight line), wherein one side of the side housing component 130 will be referred to as "front" (or: upstream) relative to the transmission axis T, and one side of the lower housing component 120 will be referred to as "rear" (or: downstream) relative to the transmission axis T. In this naming scheme, the second moving gear component 610 is located before the first transmission component 620, the first transmission component 620 is located before the second transmission component 630, and the second transmission component 630 is located before the actuating wheel 151. In the illustrated embodiment, the transmission axis T is parallel to the width W of the switching device 1000. The following figures will describe each component and their respective mechanical interactions in more detail.

[0194] Figure 24A and Figure 24B The second moving gear component 610 is shown, wherein, Figure 24A This shows a perspective view from the front. Figure 24B A perspective view from the rear is shown. The second moving gear component 610 has a generally annular shape, with gear teeth 611 (here: six) arranged on a portion of its outer periphery. On both sides of this portion, rearwardly projecting protrusions 612-1 and 612-2 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 612-i) are respectively arranged. Figure 24B Most clearly, the cross-section of protrusion 612-i is an annular sector shape, wherein the center of the radius defining the sector is preferably located on the drive shaft T. Any other number of protrusions 612-i may also be provided, such as one, three, or more protrusions. The second moving gear component 610 is preferably formed as a single piece, for example, made of plastic material, for example, by injection molding.

[0195] Figure 25A and Figure 25B The first transmission component 620 is shown, wherein, Figure 25A This shows a perspective view from the front. Figure 25B The diagram shows a perspective view from the rear. The first transmission member 620 has receiving portions 622-1 and 622-2 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 622-i) on its front side, each for receiving a corresponding protrusion 612-i. When the second moving gear member 610 rotates about the transmission axis T, it can drive the first transmission member 620 to rotate together when the protrusion 612-i engages the receiving portion 622-i. In the illustrated example, the first transmission member 620 is formed with a wall member 621 around its circumference (extending axially), wherein the receiving portion 622-i forms a gap in the wall member. The first transmission member 620 is preferably formed as a single component, for example, made of a plastic material, for example, by injection molding.

[0196] Alternatively, the protrusion / receiver connection can be formed by providing a protrusion on the first transmission member 620 and a receiver on the second moving gear member 610. In any case, it is preferable to provide a connection between the two elements that allows torque to be applied to each other at one axial position of the first transmission member 620 (along the transmission axis T), and also allows the first transmission member 620 to move at another axial position where the first transmission member 620 and the second moving gear member 610 are separated, such that no torque is transmitted from one member to the other.

[0197] On its rear side, the first transmission member 620 is formed with a guide element 623 for the spring member 629. In the preferred example shown, the guide element 623 is a central axis coaxial with the transmission axis T, and the spring member 629 is a helical spring, although other types of guide elements or spring members may be used in other embodiments. The helical spring is arranged coaxially around the central axis such that the movement of the first transmission member 620 along the transmission axis T is preloaded in the forward direction. Therefore, the receiving portion 622-i is preloaded to engage (or mesh) with the protrusion 612-i.

[0198] On the side of the transmission component 620 (or its housing if the transmission component 620 is considered to be generally cylindrical), two guide channels 624-1, 624-2 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 624-i) are formed, each channel being arranged to receive a guide pin, as described below. Each guide channel 624-i has a first portion 625-1, 625-2 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 625-i) extending circumferentially in a plane perpendicular to the transmission axis T, and a second portion 626-1, 626-2 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 626-i) smoothly connected to the corresponding first portion 625-i but at an angle to it, particularly between 100° and 160°, preferably between 120° and 140°, wherein the corresponding second portion 626-i is angled toward the rearward direction, i.e. toward the second transmission component 630 and the actuating wheel 151.

[0199] The first transmission member 620 also has two axially extending longitudinal slots 627-1 and 627-2 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 627-i) that open rearward. These slots 627-i are arranged in the (preferably otherwise continuous) rearward edge 628 of the first transmission member 620. As will be explained later, the rearward edge 628 will impede the rearward axial movement of the first transmission member 620 in most rotational positions due to the presence of corresponding axial blocking ribs, particularly the axial blocking ribs arranged on the outer side of the lower housing member 120. However, in the position where the axial blocking ribs are aligned with the slots 627-i, the first transmission member 620 can move freely rearward axially, with the axial blocking ribs accommodated by the slots 627-i.

[0200] Figure 26A and Figure 26B The second transmission component 630 is shown, wherein, Figure 26A This shows a perspective view from the front. Figure 26B The diagram shows a perspective view from the rear. The second transmission component 630 is essentially formed as a hollow cylindrical housing with rearwardly projecting fins 632-1, 632-2 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 632-i) for engaging radial spokes 651 (see...). Figure 23 The second transmission member 630 includes inwardly projecting guide pins 631-1, 631-2 (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as 631-i). In the transmission mechanism 600, the first transmission member 620 is partially disposed within the second transmission member 630 at its rear end. The second transmission member 630 is preferably formed as a single component, for example, made of a plastic material, for example, by injection molding.

[0201] Each guide pin 631-i is configured and arranged within and along a corresponding guide channel 624-i of the first transmission member 620. As long as the guide pin 631-i travels along the corresponding first portion 625-i, the axial position of the first transmission member 620 along the transmission axis T remains unchanged, and the protrusion 612-i and the receiving portion 622-i engage with each other.

[0202] Figure 27 A portion of the interior of the side housing component 130 is shown, including a first shaft 601 and a second shaft 602. The first shaft is configured to allow a first movable gear component 133 to pivot about it, and the second shaft is configured to allow a second movable gear component 610 to rotate about it. Here, shafts 601 and 602 are advantageously integrally formed with the side housing component 130 and have locking hooks for axially securing the movable gear components 133 and 610.

[0203] Figure 28A The outer portion of the lower housing component 120 (although still arranged inside the side housing component 130) is shown, which forms a wall structure 603 (generally formed as a cylindrical cover) and a socket 604 arranged therein (preferably rotationally symmetrical), both preferably coaxial with the drive shaft T. The wall structure 603 and the socket 604 protrude from the outer surface of the lower housing component 120 facing the side housing component 130.

[0204] The socket 604 preferably has a cylindrical shell shape lacking a circular facet and is configured to receive a spring member 629 (through the missing circular facet) for axially securing its rear end (inside its other circular facet), and optionally also to receive a guide member 623 in certain states of the transmission mechanism 600. The wall structure 603 is configured to receive and receive a second transmission member 630. Between the inner shell 604 and the wall structure 603, the lower shell member 120 includes openings through which the fins 632-i of the second transmission member 630 can engage the spokes 651 in the actuating wheel 151.

[0205] Therefore, the entire transmission device 600 (see Figure 23 ) will be arranged and constrained Figure 27 Between the inner portion of the side housing component 130 shown and the outer portion of the lower housing component 120 shown in FIG. 28.

[0206] Figure 28B A front view of the wall structure 603 and the socket 604 is shown, with particular emphasis on how two axial blocking ribs 605 are formed on the outer side of the cylindrical housing of the socket 604. As previously described, these axial blocking ribs 605 correspond in form and number to slots 627-i within the first transmission member 620. They are formed and arranged such that axial movement of the first transmission member 620 is permitted only when the first transmission member 620 is in a specific rotational position such that slots 627-i and axial blocking ribs 605 are aligned; in all other rotational positions, the axial blocking ribs 605 abut against the rearward edge 628 of the first transmission member 620, thereby preventing rearward axial movement of the first transmission member 620. Figure 28B An opening 606 is also shown within the lower housing component 120, through which fins 632-i extend to interact with the spokes 651 of the actuating wheel 151.

[0207] Figure 29 The transmission mechanism 600 is shown in an assembled state together with the lower housing component 120 that partially houses the transmission mechanism 600.

[0208] To explain the different switching states of the switching device 1000, the assembled transmission mechanism 600 is as follows: Figures 30A to 30C The image is shown in three different states, in which some surrounding elements (particularly the side housing part 130 and the lower housing part 120) have been removed for better visibility.

[0209] Figure 30AThe switch device 1000 in the off state is shown: the manual actuation element 150 rotates upward (or: pivots), the protrusion 612-i of the second moving gear component 610 engages (or: meshes) with the receiving portion 622-i of the first transmission component 620, and the first transmission component 620 is in its foremost position (relative to the transmission axis T; this is consistently true for the description of the transmission mechanism 600). More specifically, Figure 30A The diagram shows the switch 1000 in a closed state by the linear motor 131, with guide pins 631-i abutting against the dead ends of their respective second portions 626-i located in the guide channels 624-i. In this state, the second transmission member 630, previously pushed clockwise by the guide pins 631-i from the dead ends, rotates (in...) Figure 30A (In the middle), to close the switch device 1000. Therefore, the fins 632-i of the second transmission component 630 are engaged with the spokes 651 of the actuating wheel 151, rotating them (and the manual actuating element 150 integrally formed with them) clockwise until the off position.

[0210] Figure 30B A switching device 1000 in the ON state after being switched on using a linear motor 131 is shown: a second moving gear component 610 meshes with a first transmission component 620 and rotates it counterclockwise, with a guide pin 631-i located at the dead end of the second portion 626-i of the guide channel 624-i. In the OFF state, the axial blocking rib 605 and the rearward edge 628 of the first transmission component 620 are arranged such that they abut against each other, preventing the first transmission component 620 from moving axially. Therefore, when the guide pin 631-i abuts against the dead end, the first transmission component 620 is rotated by the second moving gear component 610, and the guide pin 631-i cannot travel along the angled second portion 626-i, because doing so would require pushing the first transmission component 620 downwards. Thus, the guide pin 631-i is engaged at the angled second portion 626-i of the guide channel 624-i, such that the rotation of the first transmission component 620 is transmitted to the second transmission component 630.

[0211] When the second drive member 630 (and the actuating wheel 151 via fins 632-i and spokes 651) completes its rotation to the engaged state, the groove 627-i in the rearward edge 628 of the first drive member 620 aligns with the axial blocking rib 605. In other words, in the engaged state (and only there), the first drive member becomes capable of rearward axial movement. This axial movement is unnecessary and does not occur when the switch device 1000 is closed using the motor 131, but allows for advantageous manual closing, as described below. Figure 30C As stated above.

[0212] Figure 30CThe switch 1000 is shown to be in the off state again; however, in this case, it is after manual over-control shutdown: if the user from Figure 30B The indicated on state begins; manually push the manual actuator 150 upwards (in... Figure 30B Clockwise, guide pin 631-i is pushed away from the corresponding dead end of the second portion 626-i of guide channel 624-i and enters the rear wall of the second portion 626-i. This causes the axially fixed guide pin 631-i (and the entire second transmission component 630) to slide along guide channel 624-i, while the first transmission component 620 is thereby pushed backward, overcoming the preload of spring element 629, i.e., toward actuating wheel 151, until the protrusion 612-i of second moving gear component 610 disengages from receiving portion 622-i, so that actuating wheel 151, second transmission component 630 and first transmission component 620 can finally move freely clockwise to the disengaged position, without (substantially) any movement of the second moving gear component 610, first moving gear component 133 and the protrusion of linear motor 131. In the latter stage, guide pin 631-i moves along the first portion 625-i of guide channel 624-i.

[0213] As described above, this rearward axial movement of the first transmission component 620 is possible only because its groove 627-i and axial blocking rib 605 are aligned in the engaged position.

[0214] How can the same transmission mechanism 600 be used to achieve a similar and approximate result? Figure 2B The variations are obvious; for example, simply replacing clockwise and counterclockwise in the second moving gear component 610, the first transmission component 620, and the second transmission component 630.

[0215] Many other variations are also possible. For example, an electric motor that generates rotational motion and torque about an axis parallel to the length L or depth D of the housing (or within a plane defined by them) can be provided instead of the electric linear motor 131. This rotational motion can be converted into rotational motion along the drive axis T (parallel to the width W of the housing 100) by any technique known in the art, for example, a worm gear drive, wherein, for example, a second moving gear component 610 can be externally formed as a worm wheel that meshes with a worm driven by an electric motor.

[0216] In other variations, an electric motor (preferably an axial flux motor) that generates rotational motion and torque about an axis parallel to the drive axis T (and the width W of the housing 100) can be provided, either directly driving the second moving gear component 610 (completely omitting the first moving gear component 133) or driven by an adapted first moving gear component.

[0217] Figure 31 A variant of the linkage shift mechanism 400 in an isolated state according to all embodiments is shown. In this variant, a mechanical switch status indicator 661 is marked on, rigidly attached to, or integrally formed with the linkage shift mechanism 400, such that it necessarily moves with the movement of the linkage shift mechanism 400. Thus, when the actuating wheel 151 rotates, the linkage shift mechanism 400 translates laterally (or: shifts) via the actuating rod 152 and the knee lever 153, causing the mechanical switch status indicator 661 to translate simultaneously. As described below, this allows the user to verify the actual state / position of the linkage shift mechanism 400 with high reliability, thereby verifying the switching state (on / off) of the switching device 1000, even if some components of the switching device 1000 may be melted or damaged, etc.

[0218] Figure 32 Details of the housing 100 in all embodiments are shown. A switch status indicator opening 161 is formed in the top side 101 of the housing 100 (e.g., a portion of the lower housing component 120), through which a corresponding portion of the internal switch status indicator 661 can be seen depending on the current position of the linkage shift mechanism 400. The switch status indicator 660 and the switch status indicator opening 161 are configured and arranged such that when the switch device 1000 is turned on, a first indicator is visible from the outside through the switch status indicator opening 161, and a second indicator is visible when the switch device 1000 is turned off. Since the linkage shift mechanism 400 is configured to move along the longitudinal direction L of the switch device 1000, the first and second indicators are preferably arranged along the longitudinal direction L. Thus, if the movement of the linkage shift mechanism 400 is blocked at a certain point, the first and second indicators can be visible, indicating a mechanical problem.

[0219] In the example shown, the first flag is a "1" on a background of a first color (e.g., red), and the second flag is a "0" on a background of a second color (e.g., green). Other flags can be used, such as text (e.g., "on" / "off"), symbols, other colors, etc.

[0220] In particular, even when the motor 131 and / or the communication interface output a status signal indicating that the motor 131 is in a state corresponding to a certain state (on or off) of the switching device 1000, a user who can visually access the top side 101 of the housing 100 can verify which state the switching device 1000 is actually in.

[0221] In a further variation, one of the indicators may be a powered LED, the visibility or invisibility of which indicates the switching state of the switching device 1000. In other variations, a powered LED may be provided within the housing 100, and the switch state indicator 660 may be configured to selectively block or unblock the line of sight to the powered LED through the switch state indicator opening 161, rather than having an indicator. In each case, the LED may be configured to emit only infrared or visible light.

[0222] Figure 33 Details of a switching device 1000 are shown, which may further include, for example, a guide switch 700 disposed within a housing 100 (or a space for inserting the guide switch 700). The guide switch 700 includes a spring-loaded contact 710, which is formed with a mushroom head. The guide switch 700 is configured to output a status signal indicating a state when the spring-loaded contact 710 is pressed into the guide switch against the spring force, and another state when the spring-loaded contact 710 is pushed out by the spring force.

[0223] In the example shown, the linkage shifting mechanism 400 includes a pressing portion 420, which is configured such that when the linkage shifting mechanism 400 is in the position where the electrical path is disconnected (the switching device 1000 is switched to the open state), the pressing portion 420 is located at a certain distance from the spring-loaded contact 710, and the spring-loaded contact 710 is in its relaxed state, thus being pushed out of the guide switch 700. Therefore, in this case, the guide switch 700 is configured to output a status signal indicating the open state.

[0224] On the other hand, when the linkage shifting mechanism 400 is in the position where the electrical path is closed (the switching device 1000 switches to the ON state), the pressing portion 420 is in a position that substantially or completely coincides with the position of the spring-loaded contact 710, such that the spring-loaded contact 710 is pushed in by the pressing portion 420. Therefore, in this case, the guide switch 700 is configured to output a status signal indicating the ON state. This status signal can be output to an internal or external controller, for example, compared with a status signal output from a communication interface of the motor. The difference between the two states indicated by the two status signals can then be investigated remotely or on-site. The internal logic of the switching device 1000 can be configured to compare the two status signals and output an optical (e.g., via LED) or audible warning when a difference is detected.

[0225] The guide switch 700 can be arranged on the same side of the intermediate component 300 as the linkage shift mechanism 400, or on the other side. In the latter case, the guide switch opening 380 can be formed within the intermediate component 300, allowing the pressing portion 420 of the linkage shift mechanism 400 to pass through, and leaving sufficient room for the pressing portion 420 to move when the linkage shift mechanism 400 is moved by the actuating wheel.

[0226] Figure 34 A schematic flowchart illustrating a method according to a second aspect of the present invention, namely a method for manufacturing a switching device 1000, is shown.

[0227] Specifically, manufacturing the switch device 1000 may include step S100 of providing (e.g., manufacturing) an upper housing component 110, step S200 of providing (e.g., manufacturing) a lower housing component 120, and step S300 of providing (e.g., manufacturing) an intermediate component 300. Each of these steps S100, S200, and S300 may be performed, for example, by injection molding.

[0228] In step S400, the remaining components of the switching device 1000 are inserted into the housing 100 and / or connected or coupled to the upper housing component 110, the lower housing component 120 and / or the intermediate component 300.

[0229] In step S500, intermaterial bonding of the intermediate component 300 with the lower housing component 110 and / or the lower housing component 120 is performed sequentially or simultaneously. For example, if the intermaterial bonding is accomplished by adhesive, glue can be applied to any of the three components, and they are then assembled together in the final configuration, allowing the glue to cure. However, welding is preferably used for intermaterial bonding. For example, the intermediate component 300 can be welded to the upper housing component 110 or the lower housing component 120, and then welded to the corresponding other component. Welding can include ultrasonic plastic welding and / or laser welding and / or hot plate welding.

[0230] Reference Symbol List 100 housing Top side of 101 housing 103 Front side of the casing Rear side of 105 housing 109 Bottom side of the shell 110 Upper Housing Component 112-i Upper Latch Profile The first part or handle portion of the upper latch profile of 114-i Steps on the upper latch profile of 115-i The second part or head portion of the upper latch profile of 116-i 117 Upper Chamber 118-i ventilation inlet 119-i ventilation outlet 120 Lower Housing Component 121-i boot section 123-i Lower Latch Profile The first part or handle portion of the lower latch profile of 124-i Steps in the lower latch profile of 125-i The second part or head portion of the lower latch profile of 126-i 127 Lower Chamber 128-i ventilation opening 129-i front opening 130 side housing components 131 linear motor 132 shafts 133 First Moving Gear Section 135 Printed Circuit Board 139 side housing latch 140-i pivot axis 141-i pivot axis 150 actuators 151 Actuating Wheel 152 Actuator 153 knee-type lever 154 Curved nose 155 biased component 210-i fuse holder 220-i Bottom Side Electrical Terminals 221-i conductive rail 222-i latching element 223-i mechanical plug 230-i Front Electrical Terminals 240-i conductive element 250-i fuse housing space 261-i base contact terminal 262-i protrusion 263-i Base Contact Spring Plunger 264-i Base Contact Spring Element 269-i Crown Contact Terminal 270-i fuse 271-i conductive rail 272-i conductive rail contact end 273-i biased component 274-i crown contact terminal protrusion 277-i front end 278-i straight segment 279-i hook-shaped segment 280-i fuse holder opening 281 latch teeth 282 concavity 283 guide protrusion 300 intermediate components 311-i Anterior Wall Section 312-i Rear Wall Section 313-i Top lateral rib portion 315-i anterior wall rib structure 316-i posterior wall rib structure 319-i board section 321-i guide rail section 340 linkage shifting mechanism housing section 341-i rib section 349 Lower housing component sidewall 350-i locking mechanism 351-i Anterior Rib-like Part 352-i notch 354-i protrusion 355-i concave structure 356-i mouth 357-i latch 358-i Latch Wall 360-i Spring Piston Guide Section 370-i guide slot 400 linkage shifting mechanism 410-i bridging element 411-i segmented section 420 Pressing Part 510-i locking mechanism 520-i locking actuator 521-i Nasal projection 522-i Upper latch protrusion 523-i Lower latch protrusion 524-i hole 529-i Actuation Slot 530-i locking leaf spring 531-i First End 532-i window 533-i rod component 534-i First Pole 535-i First Arm 536-i Second Pole 537-i Second Arm 538-i protruding tab 539-i Second End 600 transmission mechanism 601 First Axis 602 Second Axis 603 wall structure 604 socket 605 Axial Retaining Rib 610 Second Moving Gear Component 611 gear teeth 612-i protrusion 620 First Transmission Component 621 wall components 622-i Reception Department 623 boot element 624-i boot channel The first part of the 625-i boot channel Part 2 of the 626-i boot channel 627-i slot 628 Backward Edge 629 Spring Component 630 Second Transmission Component 631-i pilot pin 632-i rearward-protruding fins 651 spokes 700 Guide Switch 710 Spring-loaded Contact 1000 switchgear Axial direction Depth of D switching device Longitudinal / length direction of L-switch device T-drive shaft The width of the W switch device S100...S500 Method Steps

Claims

1. A switching device (1000), particularly a switching device for a busbar system, comprising: Casing (100); At least two fuse receiving spaces (250-i) are located within the housing (100) for fuse holders (210-i), each fuse receiving space for one electrical fuse (270-i). Electric motor (131); and A transmission mechanism (600) is configured to be driven by the electric motor (131) to actuate a linkage displacement mechanism (400) arranged in the housing (100) for disconnecting or closing the electrical path therein.

2. The switching device (1000) according to claim 1, wherein, The transmission mechanism (600) includes a first transmission component (620) arranged to be partially rotatable about an imaginary transmission axis (T) and further arranged to be partially movable along the transmission axis (T).

3. The switching device (1000) according to claim 2. in, The transmission mechanism (600) further includes a second transmission component (630) arranged to be partially rotatable about the transmission axis (T); The second transmission component (630) includes at least one guide pin (631-i) extending radially inward toward the transmission axis (T). The first transmission component includes at least one guide channel (624-i); and Each guide pin (631-i) is configured and arranged to move along and within a corresponding one of the at least one guide channel (624-i).

4. The switching device (1000) according to claim 3. in, Each guide channel (624-i) includes a first portion (625-i) and a second portion (626-i), the first portion (625-i) being arranged in a plane substantially perpendicular to the drive axis (T), and the second portion (626-i) being arranged at an angle of 100° to 160° relative to the corresponding first portion (624-i).

5. The switching device (1000) according to claim 4, wherein, The second transmission component (630) is axially fixed, and the first transmission component (620) is axially movable only in one rotational position, particularly in the rotational position corresponding to the on state of the switching device (1000), in which the electrical path is closed.

6. The switching device (1000) according to claim 5. in, The first transmission component (620) includes at least one receiving portion (622-i) on the side opposite to the second transmission component (630). The transmission mechanism (600) further includes a moving gear component (610), which is mechanically arranged directly or indirectly between the electric motor (131) and the first transmission component (620). The movable gear component (610) includes at least one protrusion (612-i) configured to engage with the at least one receiving portion (622-i); and The movable gear component (610) and the first transmission component (620) are configured such that when the first transmission component (620) moves a predetermined distance away from the movable gear component (610), the at least one protrusion (612-i) and the at least one receiving portion (622-i) automatically disengage from each other.

7. The switching device (1000) according to claim 5 or 6. in, The transmission mechanism (600) includes a spring member (629) arranged between the first transmission member (620) and a housing component (120) of the housing (100), particularly between the first transmission member (620) and a socket (604) formed on the outside of the housing component (120), to axially and radially fix one end of the spring member (629) therein.

8. The switching device (1000) according to claim 7. in, The second transmission member (630) and the spring member (629) are configured and arranged such that the spring member (629) passes through the second transmission member (630).

9. The switching device (1000) according to claim 7 or 8. in, The first transmission member (620) is preloaded by the spring member (629) in the direction toward the moving gear member (610).

10. The switching device (1000) according to any one of claims 3 to 9. in, The second transmission component (630) includes fins (632-i) arranged and configured to engage with spokes (651) and / or openings in an actuating wheel (151) configured to directly or indirectly actuate the linkage shifting mechanism (400).

11. The switching device (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims. It also includes a communication interface configured to receive a switch signal indicating that the switching device (1000) should be turned on or off, and to forward the switch signal to the motor (131) or to generate and transmit a signal to the motor (131) based on the switch signal, so as to control the motor to perform on or off according to the switch signal.

12. The switching device (1000) according to claim 11. in, The communication interface is further configured to output a status signal, which indicates the status of the motor (131) and / or the switching device (1000), preferably indicating whether the motor (131) is in a state consistent with the on or off state of the switching device (1000).

13. The switching device (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 12. in, A mechanical switch status indicator (661) is marked on the linkage shift mechanism (400), or rigidly attached to the linkage shift mechanism, or integrally formed with the linkage shift mechanism; wherein the housing (100) includes a switch status indicator opening (161), the mechanical switch status indicator (661) and the switch status indicator opening (661) are configured and arranged such that when the switch device (1000) is turned on, a first mark is visible from the outside through the switch status indicator opening (161), and a second mark is visible when the switch device (1000) is turned off.

14. The switching device (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, It also includes a guide switch (700) configured to be actuated by the linkage shift mechanism (400) depending on whether the electrical path is currently open or closed, and the guide switch (700) is configured to output a corresponding signal.

15. The switching device (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 14. in, The axis of rotation of the electric motor (131) that directly provides torque is perpendicular or parallel to the axis of rotation of the actuating wheel (151) and is configured to rotate around it.

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