Residual current operated circuit breaker

By using a compartmentalized layout and a square columnar coil frame in the residual current operated circuit breaker, the problem of compact neutral pole space was solved, improving short-circuit protection and arc extinguishing functions, and enhancing the reliability of contact closure and the service life of the circuit breaker.

CN122267017APending Publication Date: 2026-06-23ZHEJIANG CHINT ELECTRIC CO LTD

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
ZHEJIANG CHINT ELECTRIC CO LTD
Filing Date
2024-12-20
Publication Date
2026-06-23

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing residual current operated circuit breakers, due to the compact space within the neutral pole, cannot accommodate electromagnetic trip units, arc extinguishing devices, and independent operating mechanisms. This results in poor contact closure stability and a lack of short-circuit protection and arc extinguishing functions, affecting the product's service life.

Method used

Design a residual current operated circuit breaker with a housing divided into a first chamber and a second chamber. The N-pole unit is installed in the first chamber and includes an N-pole short-circuit protection device and an operating mechanism. The L-pole unit is installed in the second chamber. The coil and core volume are increased by using a square columnar coil frame. The zero-sequence current transformer and current-operated trip unit are rationally arranged to increase space utilization. An N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber is set up to improve arc-extinguishing capability.

Benefits of technology

While achieving short-circuit protection, it improves the reliability of the N-pole contact closure and the service life of the circuit breaker, enhances the arc extinguishing capability, and optimizes space utilization.

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Abstract

The residual current circuit breaker comprises a shell, a residual current module, an L-pole unit and an N-pole unit, the shell is provided with a first chamber and a second chamber, the N-pole unit is installed in the first chamber, and the L-pole unit is installed in the second chamber; the residual current module comprises an electronic component board, a zero sequence transformer and a residual current operating release, the residual current operating release and the electronic component board are respectively installed in the first chamber, and the zero sequence transformer is at least partially installed in the first chamber; the N-pole unit comprises an N-pole moving contact, an N-pole static contact, an N-pole operating mechanism and an N-pole short-circuit protection device, the N-pole operating mechanism is connected with the N-pole moving contact, and the N-pole short-circuit protection device and the residual current operating release are respectively used for driving the N-pole operating mechanism to be unlocked and released. The residual current circuit breaker of the application sets the short-circuit protection device and the operating mechanism in the first chamber where the N-pole unit is located, not only has the short-circuit protection, but also improves the reliability of the closed contact of the N-pole contact.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of low-voltage electrical appliances, and more specifically to a residual current operated circuit breaker. Background Technology

[0002] Existing residual current operated circuit breakers consist of an overcurrent protected pole (also known as the L pole) and an unprotected neutral pole (also known as the N pole). Placing the residual current operating module inside the neutral pole results in a compact space inside the neutral pole, making it impossible to place an electromagnetic trip unit, arc extinguishing device, and independent operating mechanism. This leads to poor contact stability when the contacts are closed and lacks short-circuit protection and arc extinguishing functions, affecting the product's service life. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to overcome at least one defect of the prior art and provide a residual current operated circuit breaker.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0005] A residual current operated circuit breaker includes a housing, a residual current module, an L-pole unit, and an N-pole unit. The housing has a first chamber and a second chamber. The N-pole unit is installed in the first chamber, and the L-pole unit is installed in the second chamber. The residual current module includes an electronic component board, a zero-sequence current transformer, and a residual current trip unit. The zero-sequence current transformer and the residual current trip unit are electrically connected to the electronic component board. The residual current trip unit and the electronic component board are installed in the first chamber, and the zero-sequence current transformer is at least partially installed in the first chamber.

[0006] The N-pole unit includes an N-pole moving contact, an N-pole stationary contact, an N-pole operating mechanism, and an N-pole short-circuit protection device. The N-pole operating mechanism is connected to the N-pole moving contact and can drive the N-pole moving contact to contact or separate from the N-pole stationary contact. The N-pole short-circuit protection device and the residual current operated trip unit are respectively used to drive the N-pole operating mechanism to unlock and trip.

[0007] Optionally, the N-pole short-circuit protection device includes a coil frame with a mounting cavity, a coil, a stationary iron core and a moving iron core disposed opposite each other in the mounting cavity of the coil frame, a moving iron core spring disposed between the stationary iron core and the moving iron core for driving the moving iron core to reset, and a push rod that is synchronously linked with the moving iron core for driving the N-pole operating mechanism to unlock and trip; the coil frame is a square columnar structure, and the coil is sleeved on the coil frame.

[0008] Optionally, the coil is a spiral structure, with the spiral center of the spiral structure set along the length direction of the coil skeleton, and the cross-section of the spiral structure in the vertical direction of the spiral center is square.

[0009] Optionally, the N-pole operating mechanism includes a release member for unlocking and tripping the N-pole operating mechanism. The residual current trip unit is disposed opposite to the release member and is used to drive the release member to unlock and trip the N-pole operating mechanism. One end of the push rod extends towards the residual current trip unit and is provided with a pushing part. The release member extends and is provided with a release member extension end opposite to the pushing part. The pushing part can push against the release member extension end to drive the release member to unlock and trip the N-pole operating mechanism.

[0010] Optionally, the push rod includes a push rod body, one end of which is connected to the pushing part, and the other end of which passes through the stationary iron core and is connected to the moving iron core.

[0011] Optionally, the moving iron core includes a linkage column; the other end of the top rod body is provided with a linkage groove that cooperates with the linkage column, and the linkage column is inserted and fixed in the linkage groove.

[0012] Optionally, the push rod body is a columnar structure, and the pushing part is a straight plate structure.

[0013] Optionally, the mounting cavity is a square through hole extending through the coil frame along its length; the moving iron core includes a moving iron core body, which is a square block structure that mates with the mounting cavity, and the moving iron core body is slidably disposed within the mounting cavity; the stationary iron core includes a stationary iron core body, which is a square block structure that mates with the mounting cavity, and the stationary iron core body is fixed within the mounting cavity.

[0014] Optionally, the N-pole unit further includes an N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber, which is located on the side of the N-pole moving contact away from the N-pole operating mechanism.

[0015] Optionally, it also includes an insulating partition, which is located on one side of the N-pole moving contact, the N-pole stationary contact and the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber. The insulating partition has raised arc-blocking ribs, which are located on the side of the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber away from the N-pole moving contact.

[0016] Optionally, the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber is tilted towards the N-pole stationary contact on the side closest to the N-pole moving contact.

[0017] Optionally, the electronic component board is located on the side of the N-pole short-circuit protection device away from the residual current operated trip unit.

[0018] Optionally, the housing is provided with a through hole connecting the first chamber and the second chamber. The axial hole of the zero-sequence current transformer faces the N-pole short-circuit protection device and the residual current trip unit. A part of the zero-sequence current transformer is located in the first chamber and on one side of the N-pole short-circuit protection device and the residual current trip unit. The other part of the zero-sequence current transformer passes through the through hole and extends into the second chamber.

[0019] Optionally, the housing includes an L-pole cover, a base, and an N-pole cover arranged sequentially, wherein the N-pole cover covers one side of the base to form the first chamber, the L-pole cover covers the other side of the base to form the second chamber, the L-pole cover protrudes towards the base and is provided with a support frame, and the portion of the zero-sequence current transformer extending into the second chamber is placed on the support frame.

[0020] Optionally, the L-pole unit includes an L-pole operating mechanism. Both the L-pole and N-pole operating mechanisms include a handle and a linkage structure. The linkage structure includes a linkage, a lever, a latch and a snap fastener. The latch and snap fastener are rotatably mounted on the lever. The linkage connects the snap fastener and the handle. The moving contacts of the L-pole and N-pole operating mechanisms are each mounted on the lever or on a contact support that cooperates with the lever drive. When the latch and snap fastener are engaged, the handle drives the moving contact to contact or separate from the stationary contact through the linkage structure.

[0021] The residual current operated circuit breaker of the present invention has a short-circuit protection device and an operating mechanism installed in the first chamber where the N pole unit is located. This not only provides short-circuit protection and improves the service life of the circuit breaker, but also enhances the reliability of the N pole contact closure.

[0022] In addition, the miniaturized design of the N-pole short-circuit protection device adopts a square columnar coil frame, which maximizes the volume of the coil frame in a small space. This allows for an increase in the volume of the coil outside the coil frame, as well as the static and moving iron cores inside the coil frame, to meet usage requirements and improve space utilization, thereby reducing the space occupied by the N-pole short-circuit protection device in the first chamber.

[0023] Furthermore, by using a square coil, the coil can be fitted between the opposite side walls of the first chamber, improving space utilization and reducing the space occupied by the N-pole short-circuit protection device in the first chamber.

[0024] In addition, the N pole is equipped with an arc-extinguishing chamber to improve arc-extinguishing capability. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the N-pole unit and the residual current module of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the L-pole unit of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit breaker of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the N-pole short-circuit protection device of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 5This is an exploded view of the stationary iron core, the moving iron core, and the push rod of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fastener of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the conductive structure of the N-pole short-circuit protection device of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the conductive structure of the N-pole short-circuit protection device and the L-pole short-circuit protection device of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 9 This is the present invention. Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the middle insulating partition section;

[0034] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the L-pole arc-extinguishing chamber of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the N-pole operating mechanism and the L-pole operating mechanism of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the testing device and the first wiring board of the present invention.

[0037] Test device 100; test button 110; test button body 111; connecting rod 112; drive block 113; limit post 114; conductive elastic element 120; first elastic arm 121; torsion spring body 122; second elastic arm 123; conductive part 124; residual current module 200; electronic component board 210; connection hole 211; zero-sequence current transformer 220; residual current trip unit 230; housing 300; first chamber 301; second chamber 302; L-pole cover 310; support frame 311; Base 320; Through hole 321; N pole cover 330; N pole unit 400; First N pole terminal 410; First terminal block 420; First flexible connection 421; N pole moving contact 440; N pole stationary contact 450; Fixed guard plate 451; Stationary contact 452; Arc-starting angle 453; First wire 454; Second terminal block 460; Wiring section 461; Connecting section 462; Second N pole terminal 470; N pole operating mechanism 480; N pole handle 481; Unlocking piece 482; Unlocking piece extension end 482 1; N-pole short-circuit protection device 490; Coil frame 491; Mounting cavity 4911; Coil 492; Stationary iron core 493; Stationary iron core body 4931; Receiving groove 4932; Positioning flange 4933; Moving iron core 494; Moving iron core body 4941; Linkage column 4942; Moving iron core spring 495; Push rod 496; Pushing part 4961; Push rod body 4962; Linkage groove 4963; N-pole arc extinguishing chamber 430; L-pole unit 500; First L-pole terminal block 510; Third terminal block 520 L-pole moving contact 530; L-pole stationary contact 540; L-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 550; first arc-extinguishing grid 551; second arc-extinguishing grid 552; fourth terminal block 560; wiring section 561; second conductor 562; second L-pole terminal block 570; L-pole operating mechanism 580; L-pole handle 581; L-pole short-circuit protection device 590; overload protection device 600; linkage component 700; linkage shaft 800; insulating partition 900; side flange 901; arc-blocking rib 902; limiting rib 903; fixing post 910. Detailed Implementation

[0038] The following embodiments, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, further illustrate specific implementations of the residual current operated circuit breaker of the present invention. The residual current operated circuit breaker of the present invention is not limited to the descriptions in the following embodiments.

[0039] like Figures 1-3As shown, the residual current operated circuit breaker of this embodiment includes a housing 300, a residual current module 200, an L-pole unit 500, and an N-pole unit 400. The housing 300 has a first chamber 301 and a second chamber 302. The N-pole unit 400 is installed in the first chamber 301, and the L-pole unit 500 is installed in the second chamber 302. The residual current module 200 includes an electronic component board 210, a zero-sequence current transformer 220, and a residual current trip unit 230. The zero-sequence current transformer 220 and the residual current trip unit 230 are electrically connected to the electronic component board 210, and the residual current trip unit 230 and the electronic component board 210 are installed in the first chamber 301. The zero-sequence current transformer 220 is at least partially installed in the first chamber 301. All of the zero-sequence current transformers 220 are installed in the first chamber 301, or some of the zero-sequence current transformers 220 are located in the first chamber 301 and some are located in the second chamber 302.

[0040] The N-pole unit 400 in this embodiment includes an N-pole moving contact 440, an N-pole stationary contact 450, an N-pole operating mechanism 480, and an N-pole short-circuit protection device 490. The N-pole operating mechanism 480 is connected to the N-pole moving contact 440 and can drive the N-pole moving contact 440 to contact or separate from the N-pole stationary contact 450. The N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 and the residual current operated trip unit 230 are respectively used to drive the N-pole operating mechanism 480 to unlock and trip.

[0041] In this embodiment, the residual current operated circuit breaker can be equipped with an electronic component board 210, a residual current operated trip unit 230, and at least some zero-sequence current transformers 220 on the N pole. It can also serve as a short-circuit protection device and an operating mechanism. Moreover, the short-circuit protection device and the residual current operated trip unit 230 are independent trip units, which not only provides short-circuit protection and improves the service life of the circuit breaker, but also enhances the reliability of the N pole contact closure.

[0042] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 of this embodiment includes a coil frame 491 with a mounting cavity 4911, a coil 492 connected in series in the main circuit, a stationary iron core 493 and a moving iron core 494 disposed opposite each other in the mounting cavity 4911 of the coil frame 491, a moving iron core spring 495 disposed between the stationary iron core 493 and the moving iron core 494 for driving the moving iron core to reset, and a push rod 496 that is synchronously linked with the moving iron core 494 for driving the N-pole operating mechanism 480 to unlock and trip; in particular, the coil frame 491 is a square columnar structure, and the coil 492 is sleeved on the coil frame 491.

[0043] The miniaturized design of the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 in this embodiment utilizes a square columnar coil frame 491 to maximize its volume within a smaller space. This allows for an increase in the volume of the coil 492 outside the coil frame 491, as well as the stationary iron core 493 and moving iron core 494 within the coil frame 491, to meet usage requirements and improve space utilization, thereby reducing the space occupied by the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 within the first chamber 301. Of course, as a modified embodiment, the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 could also adopt a structure similar to the L-pole short-circuit protection device 590, but this would compress the space occupied by other components within the N-pole unit 400.

[0044] Preferably, the coil 492 has a helical structure, with the helical center located along the length of the coil frame 491, and the cross-section perpendicular to the helical center is square. By using a square coil 492, the coil 492 can be fitted snugly between the opposite side walls of the first chamber 301, improving space utilization and reducing the space occupied by the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 within the first chamber 301.

[0045] like Figure 1 and Figures 4-6 As shown, the N-pole operating mechanism 480 of this embodiment includes an N-pole handle 481 and a release member 482 for unlocking and tripping the N-pole operating mechanism 480. The residual current operated trip unit 230 is disposed opposite to the release member 482 and is used to drive the release member 482 to unlock and trip the N-pole operating mechanism 480. One end of the push rod 496 of the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 extends toward the residual current operated trip unit 230 and is provided with a pushing part 4961. The release member 482 extends with a release member extension end 4821 opposite to the pushing part 4961. The pushing part 4961 can push against the release member extension end 4821 to drive the release member 482 to unlock and trip the N-pole operating mechanism 480.

[0046] It should be noted that the technical principle of the N-pole operating mechanism 480 is existing technology. The handle drives the moving contact through a linkage structure, causing the moving contact to contact or separate from the stationary contact to connect or disconnect the main circuit. The linkage structure typically includes a linkage, a lever, a latching lock, and a jump catch. The latch and jump catch are rotatably mounted on the lever. The linkage connects the jump catch and the handle. The moving contact is mounted on the lever or on a contact support that engages with the lever. When the latch and jump catch are engaged, the handle drives the moving contact to contact or separate from the stationary contact through the linkage structure. By pushing the latch to rotate, the latching lock and jump catch are released, allowing the operating mechanism to unlock and disengage, causing the moving contact to separate from the stationary contact, thus achieving tripping protection. This will not be elaborated further here. In this embodiment, the release element 482 is the latch of the N-pole operating mechanism 480.

[0047] In this embodiment, the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 operates as follows: When a short-circuit current occurs in the main circuit, the coil 492 generates electromagnetic force, causing the moving iron core 494 to move towards the stationary iron core 493. The push rod 496 moves with the moving iron core 494, causing the pushing part 4961 to push against the extended end 4821 of the release member. The release member 482 rotates and engages with the release buckle of the N-pole operating mechanism 480, causing the N-pole operating mechanism 480 to unlock and disengage, thereby separating the N-pole moving contact 440 from the N-pole stationary contact 450 and completing the short-circuit protection function. Then, the moving iron core spring 495 releases energy, causing the moving iron core 494 to move away from the stationary iron core 493, thereby pushing the moving iron core 494 and the push rod 496 back to their initial positions.

[0048] Except for the latch (unlatch 482), the other parts of the N-pole operating mechanism 480 in this embodiment can be the same as those of the L-pole, thereby reducing the types of parts. Moreover, the latch only requires extending the driven part, which is a minor modification and easy to implement.

[0049] Preferably, the mounting cavity 4911 is a square through hole that extends through the coil frame 491 along its length. Both the moving iron core 494 and the stationary iron core 493 can be square block structures, which are simple in structure and maximize the volume of the moving and stationary iron cores. This achieves a miniaturized design of the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 while ensuring the electromagnetic performance of the moving and stationary iron cores.

[0050] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the moving iron core 494 in this embodiment includes a moving iron core body 4941, which is a square block structure that cooperates with the mounting cavity 4911. The moving iron core body 4941 is slidably disposed in the mounting cavity 4911. A linkage post 4942 is provided on the end of the moving iron core body 4941 facing the stationary iron core 493.

[0051] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the stationary core 493 in this embodiment includes a stationary core body 4931, which is a square block structure that mates with the mounting cavity 4911. The stationary core body 4931 is fixed within the mounting cavity 4911. A receiving groove 4932 is provided on one end of the stationary core 493 facing the moving core 494. The end of the stationary core body 4931 away from the moving core 494 extends out of the mounting cavity 4911, and positioning flanges 4933 extending from both sides of one end of the stationary core body 4931 respectively abut against the coil frame 491.

[0052] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the push rod 496 in this embodiment includes a push rod body 4962. One end of the push rod body 4962 is connected to the pushing part 4961, and the other end of the push rod body 4962 passes through the stationary iron core 493 and is connected to the moving iron core 494. Preferably, the push rod body 4962 is a square columnar structure, but it can also be circular or other shapes. The pushing part 4961 is a straight plate structure. Furthermore, the other end of the push rod body 4962 is provided with a linkage groove 4963 that cooperates with the linkage column 4942. The linkage column 4942 is inserted and fixed in the linkage groove 4963 to realize synchronous linkage between the push rod 496 and the moving iron core 494. The linkage column 4942 and the linkage groove 4963 are preferably square.

[0053] like Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the moving core spring 495 is preferably a compression spring. The moving core spring 495 is sleeved on the other end of the push rod body 4962. One end of the moving core spring 495 is placed in the receiving groove 4932 of the stationary core 493, and the other end abuts against the moving core 494. Of course, the moving core spring 495 can also be a tension spring, torsion spring, leaf spring, or other elastic element.

[0054] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown in the diagram, the layout structure of the residual current operated circuit breaker in this embodiment includes the L-pole unit 500 and the N-pole unit 400 arranged sequentially along a first direction. The N-pole unit 400 further includes a first N-pole terminal 410 and a second N-pole terminal 470. The first N-pole terminal 410, the N-pole moving contact 440, the N-pole stationary contact 450, and the second N-pole terminal 470 are arranged sequentially along a second direction. The N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 and the residual current operated trip unit 230 are arranged sequentially within the first chamber 301 along a third direction. The residual current trip unit 230 and the N-pole terminal 490 are located in the second direction between the second N-pole terminal 470 and the N-pole stationary contact 450. The N-pole operating mechanism 480 is inclined, with one end located in the third direction on the side of the residual current trip unit 230 away from the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490, and the other end located in the second direction on the side of the residual current trip unit 230 away from the second N-pole terminal 470. The other end of the N-pole operating mechanism 480 is connected to the N-pole moving contact 440. Through the compact structure and reasonable layout within the first chamber 301 where the N-pole unit 400 is located, the N-pole operating mechanism 480 is inclinedly positioned above and to the right of the residual current trip unit 230, and above the N-pole moving contact 440, leaving sufficient space below the residual current trip unit 230 and between the second N-pole terminal 470 and the N-pole stationary contact 450.

[0055] It should be noted that the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other, with the first direction being... Figure 3 The Z direction is shown, and the second direction is... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 The X direction is shown, and the third direction is... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The Y direction is shown. The first direction is also the width direction of the circuit breaker, the second direction is the length direction of the circuit breaker, and the third direction is the height direction of the circuit breaker.

[0056] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 7 As shown, the housing 300 of this embodiment includes an L-type cover 310, a base 320, and an N-type cover 330 arranged sequentially along a first direction. The N-type cover 330 covers one side of the base 320 to form the first chamber 301, and the L-type cover 310 covers the other side of the base 320 to form the second chamber 302. The base 320 of the housing 300 has a through hole 321 connecting the first chamber 301 and the second chamber 302. The L-type cover 310 has a support frame 311 protruding towards the base 320 (i.e., along the first direction). In this embodiment, the N-type cover 330 and the L-type cover 310 share the same base 320. Of course, as in other embodiments, the housing 300 may also include an independent N-type shell for accommodating the N-type unit 400 and an L-type shell for accommodating the L-type unit 500.

[0057] like Figure 1 and Figure 7 As shown, in this embodiment, the zero-sequence current transformer 220 has an axial hole facing the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 and the residual current trip unit 230, meaning the axial direction of the zero-sequence current transformer 220 is arranged along the second direction. A portion of the zero-sequence current transformer 220 is located in the first chamber 301, and this portion is located on one side of the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 and the residual current trip unit 230 in the second direction (i.e., between the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 and the second N-pole terminal 470, and between the residual current trip unit 230 and the second N-pole terminal 470). Another portion of the zero-sequence current transformer 220 passes through the through hole 321 and extends into the second chamber 302. The portion of the zero-sequence current transformer 220 extending into the second chamber 302 is placed on the support frame 311. The zero-sequence current transformer 220 is placed vertically inside the L-pole unit 500 and the N-pole unit 400, which reduces the space occupied in the first chamber 301 where the N-pole unit 400 is located, and makes it easier to add other functional modules to the N-pole unit 400 to improve its performance.

[0058] like Figure 1As shown, the electronic component board 210 of this embodiment is located on the side of the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 away from the residual current operated trip unit 230. Specifically, the electronic component board 210 is disposed in the first chamber 301 along the second direction, and between the first N-pole terminal 410 and the zero-sequence current transformer 220. One end of the electronic component board 210 is located on one side of the N-pole moving contact 440 and the N-pole stationary contact 450 in the first direction, and the other end of the electronic component board 210 is located on the side of the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 away from the residual current operated trip unit 230. The electronic component board 210 is horizontally positioned between the first N-pole terminal 410 and the zero-sequence current transformer 220, and below the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490, so that the N-pole moving contact 440 and the N-pole stationary contact 450 can be stacked with the electronic component board 210 at intervals, which is a reasonable arrangement that does not interfere with the arrangement of other structures in the N-pole, and also facilitates wiring between the zero-sequence current transformer 220 and the residual current trip unit 230.

[0059] In this embodiment, the residual current circuit breaker has a residual current module 200 arranged in the L-pole unit 500 and the N-pole unit 400. The zero-sequence current transformer 220 occupies part of the space in the L-pole unit 500. The residual current trip unit 230, the electronic component board 210 and the testing device are located in the N-pole unit 400. The entire residual current circuit breaker has a size of 36mm in the first direction, which only requires the space of two modules. One module is about 18mm, so the width of the residual current circuit breaker is 36mm.

[0060] like Figure 1 As shown, the conductive structure between the first N-pole terminal 410 and the N-pole moving contact 440 in this embodiment is as follows: the first N-pole terminal 410 is electrically connected to the N-pole moving contact 440 through the first conductive structure. The first conductive structure includes a first terminal block 420 and a first flexible connection 421. One end of the first terminal block 420 is inserted into the first N-pole terminal 410 and cooperates with the first N-pole terminal 410 for external connection. The two ends of the first flexible connection 421 are respectively welded to the other end of the first terminal block 420 and the N-pole moving contact 440.

[0061] like Figure 1 , Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, in this embodiment, the conductive structure between the second N-pole terminal 470 and the N-pole stationary contact 450 is such that the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 is electrically connected between the second N-pole terminal 470 and the N-pole stationary contact 450. The second N-pole terminal 470 is electrically connected to the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 through a second conductive structure, and the second conductive structure passes through the axial hole of the zero-sequence current transformer 220. For example, the second conductive structure is a second terminal block 460, which includes a connecting segment 462 and a wiring segment 461 connected sequentially along a second direction. The wiring segment 461 is inserted into the second N-pole terminal 470 and cooperates with the second N-pole terminal 470 for external connection. The connecting segment 462 passes through the axial hole of the zero-sequence current transformer 220 and is located on the side of the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 away from the residual current operated trip unit 230 in a third-direction upward direction. The connecting segment 462 is electrically connected to the coil 492 of the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490. The connection between the connecting section 462 and the coil 492 can be achieved by welding. The structure of the second terminal block 460 is optimized so that the connecting section 462 passes through the axial hole of the zero-sequence current transformer 220 and is electrically connected to one side of the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490, simplifying the structure and reducing the space occupied.

[0062] Specifically, the wiring segment 461 is preferably a straight structure arranged along the second direction; the connecting segment 462 is preferably a bent structure composed of three segments connected vertically in sequence, with one segment of the connecting segment 462 connected to the wiring segment 461 arranged along the second direction, the middle segment of the connecting segment 462 arranged along the third direction, and the other segment of the connecting segment 462 arranged along the second direction.

[0063] like Figure 1 and Figure 9 As shown, the N-pole unit 400 in this embodiment also includes an N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430, which is located on the side of the N-pole moving contact 440 away from the N-pole operating mechanism 480 in a third direction. The arc-extinguishing chamber on the N-pole improves its arc-extinguishing capability. Furthermore, the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 is also located in a second direction between the first N-pole terminal 410 and the N-pole stationary contact 450. The arc-extinguishing chamber is rationally arranged between the first N-pole terminal 410 and the N-pole stationary contact 450, and below the N-pole moving contact 440, making the internal structure of the N-pole compact.

[0064] Preferably, the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 is inclined towards the side closest to the N-pole moving contact 440, moving away from the first N-pole terminal 410 and closer to the N-pole stationary contact 450. The arc-entry side of the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 is inclined towards the contact position of the moving and stationary contacts of the N-pole, which facilitates better entry of the arc into the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 and improves the arc-extinguishing effect of the N-pole.

[0065] like Figure 1 and Figure 9As shown, the residual current operated circuit breaker of this embodiment further includes an insulating partition 900. The insulating partition 900 is located on one side of the N-pole moving contact 440, the N-pole stationary contact 450, and the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 in the first direction. That is, the electronic component board 210 is located on one side of the insulating partition 900 in the first direction, and the N-pole moving contact 440, the N-pole stationary contact 450, and the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 are located on the other side of the insulating partition 900 in the first direction. This allows the insulating partition 900 to block the N-pole moving contact 440 and the electronic component board 210, the N-pole stationary contact 450 and the electronic component board 210, and the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 and the electronic component board 210. Part of the electronic component board 210 is not shown in the figure and is blocked by the insulating partition 900. The insulating partition 900 has a raised arc-blocking rib 902, which is located on the side of the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 away from the N-pole moving contact 440. The arc-blocking rib 902 is designed to prevent arc spatter.

[0066] The N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 is placed directly on the insulating partition 900. At least one limiting rib 903 protrudes from the insulating partition 900 to limit the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430. The N-pole moving contact 440, the N-pole stationary contact 450, and the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 are stacked on one side of the insulating partition 900. The insulating partition 900 not only provides electrical isolation, separating the N-pole moving contact 440 and the N-pole stationary contact 450 from other components such as the electronic component board 210 to improve safety, but also provides support and limits the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430.

[0067] For example, the insulating partition 900 has two protruding limiting ribs 903. One limiting rib 903 is a straight structure and is limited to the side of the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 near the N-pole moving contact 440. The other limiting rib 903 is a U-shaped structure with its opening facing the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 and facing away from the limiting rib 903, and is limited to the side of the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 away from the N-pole moving contact 440.

[0068] Furthermore, the insulating partition 900 has a side flange 901 protruding on one side facing the N-pole moving contact 440, the N-pole stationary contact 450 and the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 to improve the isolation and protection effect; the other side of the insulating partition 900 has a support foot protruding for support on the base 320.

[0069] like Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the N-pole stationary contact 450 in this embodiment includes a fixed protective plate 451. A stationary contact point 452 is provided on the side of the fixed protective plate 451 facing the N-pole moving contact 440, which contacts the N-pole moving contact 440. The fixed protective plate 451 extends towards the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 and is provided with an arc-inducing angle 453, meaning the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 430 is located between the arc-inducing angle 453 of the N-pole stationary contact 450 and the first N-pole terminal 410. The fixed protective plate 451 is electrically connected to the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490 via a first wire 454. One end of the first wire 454 is welded to the side of the fixed protective plate 451 facing away from the N-pole moving contact 440, and the other end of the first wire 454 is welded to one end of the coil 492 of the N-pole short-circuit protection device 490.

[0070] like Figure 2 As shown, the L-pole unit 500 in this embodiment includes a first L-pole terminal 510, an L-pole moving contact 530, an L-pole stationary contact 540, an L-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 550, a second L-pole terminal 570, and an L-pole short-circuit protection device 590. The first L-pole terminal 510, the L-pole moving contact 530, the L-pole stationary contact 540, the L-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 550, the portion of the zero-sequence current transformer 220 extending into the second chamber 302, and the second L-pole terminal 570 are arranged sequentially along a second direction. The L-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 550 and the L-pole short-circuit protection device 590 are also arranged sequentially along a third direction.

[0071] like Figure 2 As shown, the first L-pole terminal 510 is electrically connected to the L-pole moving contact 530. Exemplarily, the L-pole unit 500 also includes an overload protection device 600, which is a bimetallic strip. The overload protection device 600 is located between the first L-pole terminal 510 and the L-pole moving contact 530. The overload protection device 600 is electrically connected to the first L-pole terminal 510 via a third terminal block 520. One end of the third terminal block 520 is inserted into the first L-pole terminal 510 and cooperates with the first L-pole terminal 510 for external connection. The other end of the third terminal block 520 is soldered to the overload protection device 600. The overload protection device 600 is electrically connected to the L-pole moving contact 530 via a second flexible connection, with both ends of the second flexible connection soldered to the overload protection device 600 and the L-pole moving contact 530, respectively.

[0072] like Figure 2 and Figure 8As shown, in this embodiment, the conductive structure between the second L-pole terminal 570 and the L-pole short-circuit protection device 590 is such that the second L-pole terminal 570 is electrically connected to the L-pole short-circuit protection device 590 through a third conductive structure, which passes through the axial hole of the zero-sequence transformer 220. Exemplarily, the third conductive structure includes a fourth terminal block 560 and a second wire 562. One end of the fourth terminal block 560 is inserted into the second L-pole terminal 570 and cooperates with it for external connection. The other end of the fourth terminal block 560 extends along a first direction and is provided with a wiring portion 561. The wiring portion 561 is located between the zero-sequence transformer 220 and the second N-pole terminal 470. One end of the second wire 562 is connected to the wiring portion 561, and the other end of the second wire 562 passes through the axial hole of the zero-sequence transformer 220 and is electrically connected to the L-pole short-circuit protection device 590. The wiring section 561 extending from the fourth terminal block 560 to the side of the zero-sequence transformer 220 and the easily arranged second wire 562 optimize the conductive structure between the second L-pole terminal 570 and the L-pole short-circuit protection device 590, reducing the space occupied.

[0073] like Figure 2 and Figure 10 As shown, the L-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 550 has a stepped structure on the side facing the second L-pole terminal 570. The notch formed by the stepped structure and the second L-pole terminal 570 create a receiving space to accommodate the zero-sequence current transformer 220. Specifically, the L-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 550 includes multiple first arc-extinguishing grid plates 551 and multiple second arc-extinguishing grid plates 552. The first arc-extinguishing grid plates 551 and second arc-extinguishing grid plates 552 are arranged at intervals along a third direction, and the second arc-extinguishing grid plates 552 are shorter than the first arc-extinguishing grid plates 551 to form the stepped structure. The stepped structure on the side of the L-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 550 ensures its arc-extinguishing capability while providing space for the zero-sequence current transformer 220.

[0074] like Figure 2 and Figure 11As shown, the L-pole unit 500 also includes an L-pole operating mechanism 580. The L-pole operating mechanism 580 is inclined, with one end positioned in a third-degree upward direction on the side of the L-pole short-circuit protection device 590 away from the L-pole arc-extinguishing chamber 550. The other end of the L-pole operating mechanism 580 is connected to the L-pole moving contact 530, enabling the L-pole moving contact 530 to contact or separate from the L-pole stationary contact 540. One end of the L-pole operating mechanism 580 is equipped with an L-pole handle 581. The L-pole handle 581 and the N-pole handle 481 are synchronously linked via a linkage 700, with both ends of the linkage 700 connected to the L-pole handle 581 and the N-pole handle 481 respectively. The handles of the two pole operating mechanisms are assembled with the linkage 700 to achieve synchronous closing and opening operations.

[0075] It should be noted that the technical principle of the L-pole operating mechanism 580 is existing technology. The handle drives the moving contact through a linkage structure, causing the moving contact to contact or separate from the stationary contact to connect or disconnect the main circuit. The linkage structure typically includes a linkage, a lever, a latching lock, and a jump lock. The latch and jump lock are rotatably mounted on the lever, and the linkage connects the jump lock and the handle. The moving contact is mounted on the lever or on a contact support that cooperates with the lever drive. When the latch and jump lock are engaged, the handle drives the moving contact to contact or separate from the stationary contact through the linkage structure. By pushing the latch to rotate, the latching lock and jump lock are released, allowing the operating mechanism to unlock and trip, causing the moving contact to separate from the stationary contact, thus achieving trip protection. This will not be elaborated further. The latches of the N-pole operating mechanism 480 and the L-pole operating mechanism 580 are linked through a linkage shaft 800 to achieve synchronous unlocking and tripping.

[0076] like Figure 1 and Figure 12 As shown, the residual current module 200 in this embodiment also includes a testing device 100, which includes a testing circuit and a testing button 110. Pressing the testing button 110 can conduct the testing circuit to simulate the generation of residual current and to detect whether the residual current protection function is normal.

[0077] It should be noted that the working principle of the residual current circuit breaker protection is based on existing technology. When the zero-sequence current transformer 220 detects that the residual current in the main circuit reaches a predetermined threshold, the electronic component board 210 controls the residual current trip unit 230 to perform a tripping action to disconnect the main circuit and achieve circuit breaker protection. The electronic component board 210 is usually powered by the main circuit. The electronic component board 210 includes at least a part of the test circuit to simulate the generation of residual current, which will not be described in detail here.

[0078] like Figure 1 and Figure 12As shown, the testing device in this embodiment includes a test button 110 and a conductive elastic element 120. The test button 110 is slidably disposed on the housing 300, located on the side of the N-pole operating mechanism 480 away from the residual current trip unit 230. The test button 110 is movable between an initial position and a test position. When the test button 110 moves from the initial position to the test position, it can drive the conductive elastic element 120 to conduct electricity between the electronic component board 210 and the first N-pole terminal 410. The electronic component board 210 contacts the first terminal board 420 in the main circuit through the conductive elastic element 120 to obtain power. The conductive elastic element 120 is used to drive the test button 110 to reset from the test position to the initial position.

[0079] Specifically, the conductive elastic element 120 is located on the side of the electronic component board 210 near the L-cell unit 500 and away from the insulating partition 900. The conductive elastic element 120 includes a conductive part 124 and a first elastic arm 121. The conductive part 124 is directly electrically connected to the electronic component board 210. The first elastic arm 121 is spaced apart from the first terminal block 420. The test button 110 is driven to cooperate with the first elastic arm 121. When the test button 110 moves from the initial position to the test position, it can drive the first elastic arm 121 to contact the first terminal block 420. The electronic component board 210 obtains power by contacting the first terminal block 420 in the main circuit through the conductive elastic element 120 of the test device 100. The first elastic arm 121 is used to drive the test button 110 to reset from the test position to the initial position.

[0080] When the test button 110 is pressed, the test button 110 moves from the initial position to the test position. The test button 110 drives the first elastic arm 121 of the conductive elastic element 120 to contact the first terminal block 420, so as to conduct the test circuit of the electronic component board 210, generate a simulated residual current, and cause the electronic component board 210 to control the residual current trip unit 230 to perform a tripping action, thus completing the residual current action test. When the test button 110 is released, the first elastic arm 121 returns to its original position and separates from the first terminal block 420. At the same time, the first elastic arm 121 drives the test button 110 to reset from the test position to the initial position.

[0081] In this embodiment, the test device 100 uses a conductive elastic element 120 as both a conductive element between the electronic component board 210 and the first terminal block 420, and a reset element for the test button 110. This reduces the number of parts, simplifies the structure, and reduces the space occupied. Furthermore, the conductive elastic element 120 is directly electrically connected to the electronic component board 210 and draws power from the electronic component board 210 through contact with the first terminal block 420 in the main circuit. This reduces the number of conductive connection points and improves the reliability of the residual current action test function.

[0082] like Figure 12 As shown, the test button 110 in this embodiment includes a test button body 111, which is slidably disposed within a sliding hole in the housing 300. A connecting rod 112 extends from the test button body 111 along its sliding direction, and a driving block 113 for driving the first elastic arm 121 is provided at the end of the connecting rod 112. The slender connecting rod 112 of the test button 110 extends from the side of the N-pole operating mechanism 480 away from the residual current trip unit 230, substantially close to the side wall of the housing 300, to below the N-pole operating mechanism 480, near the N-pole moving contact 440. The test button 110 is designed with a slender structure, allowing it to be placed in a narrow space, facilitating a more rational and compact layout of other structures within the pole where the test device 100 is located.

[0083] Furthermore, the drive block 113 of the test button 110 is provided with two spaced-apart limiting posts 114, forming a limiting gap between the two limiting posts 114 that corresponds to the first elastic arm 121. When the drive block 113 acts on the first elastic arm 121, the first elastic arm 121 is limited within the limiting gap, making the cooperation between the test button 110 and the first elastic arm 121 more reliable.

[0084] like Figure 12 As shown, the conductive elastic element 120 in this embodiment is a torsion spring, including a torsion spring body 122. The torsion spring body 122 is located on the side of the electronic component board 210 away from the insulating partition 900. A protruding fixing post 910 is provided on the portion of the insulating partition 900 protruding from the electronic component board 210. The torsion spring body 122 is fitted onto the fixing post 910. The two ends of the torsion spring body 122 extend to form a first elastic arm 121 and a second elastic arm 123, respectively. The first elastic arm 121 is located between the test button 110 and the first wiring board 420. The second elastic arm 123 is located on one side of the electronic component board 210 and extends towards the electronic component board 210 to form the conductive portion 124. The conductive elastic element 120 has a simple structure, is easy to manufacture, and can be compactly arranged with the test button 110, the first wiring board 420, and the electronic component board 210, reducing space occupation. Of course, the conductive elastic element 120 can also be a spring sheet or other elastic structures.

[0085] Preferably, the conductive portion 124 of the conductive elastic element 120 is electrically connected to the electronic component board 210 in a rigid fixed manner. The electronic component board 210 is provided with a connection hole 211, and the conductive portion 124 is inserted and fixed in the connection hole 211 to achieve electrical connection with the electronic component board 210. Of course, the conductive portion 124 and the electronic component board 210 can also be soldered together.

[0086] The residual current operated trip unit 230 and the L-pole short circuit protection device 590 in this embodiment are both prior art. When a residual current or short circuit current occurs in the main circuit, the push rod of the residual current operated trip unit 230 or the L-pole short circuit protection device 590 pushes the latch to rotate, so that the operating mechanism is unlocked and tripped, thereby realizing the circuit breaker's circuit breaking protection. Further details will not be provided here.

[0087] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship conventionally placed during use. They are used only for ease of description and do not indicate that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating relative importance.

[0088] The above description, in conjunction with specific preferred embodiments, provides a further detailed explanation of the present invention. It should not be construed that the specific implementation of the present invention is limited to these descriptions. For those skilled in the art, various simple deductions or substitutions can be made without departing from the concept of the present invention, and all such modifications and substitutions should be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A residual current operated circuit breaker, comprising a housing (300), a residual current module (200), an L-pole unit (500), and an N-pole unit (400), wherein the housing (300) is provided with a first chamber (301) and a second chamber (302), the N-pole unit (400) is installed in the first chamber (301), and the L-pole unit (500) is installed in the second chamber (302); the residual current module (200) comprises an electronic component board (210), a zero-sequence current transformer (220), and a residual current operated trip unit (230), wherein the zero-sequence current transformer (220) and the residual current operated trip unit (230) are electrically connected to the electronic component board (210), the residual current operated trip unit (230) and the electronic component board (210) are respectively installed in the first chamber (301), and the zero-sequence current transformer (220) is at least partially installed in the first chamber (301); Its features are: The N-pole unit (400) includes an N-pole moving contact (440), an N-pole stationary contact (450), an N-pole operating mechanism (480), and an N-pole short-circuit protection device (490). The N-pole operating mechanism (480) is connected to the N-pole moving contact (440) and can drive the N-pole moving contact (440) to contact or separate from the N-pole stationary contact (450). The N-pole short-circuit protection device (490) and the residual current operated trip unit (230) are respectively used to drive the N-pole operating mechanism (480) to unlock and trip.

2. The residual current operated circuit breaker according to claim 1, characterized in that: The N-pole short-circuit protection device (490) includes a coil frame (491) with a mounting cavity (4911), a coil (492), a stationary iron core (493) and a moving iron core (494) disposed opposite each other in the mounting cavity (4911) of the coil frame (491), a moving iron core spring (495) disposed between the stationary iron core (493) and the moving iron core (494) for driving the moving iron core to reset, and a push rod (496) that is synchronously linked with the moving iron core (494) for driving the N-pole operating mechanism (480) to unlock and trip; the coil frame (491) is a square columnar structure, and the coil (492) is sleeved on the coil frame (491).

3. The residual current operated circuit breaker according to claim 2, characterized in that: The coil (492) has a spiral structure, with the spiral center of the spiral structure set along the length of the coil skeleton (491), and the cross-section of the spiral center in the vertical direction is square.

4. The residual current operated circuit breaker according to claim 2, characterized in that: The N-pole operating mechanism (480) includes a release member (482) for unlocking and tripping the N-pole operating mechanism (480). The residual current operated trip unit (230) is disposed opposite to the release member (482) and is used to drive the release member (482) to unlock and trip the N-pole operating mechanism (480). One end of the push rod (496) extends toward the residual current operated trip unit (230) and is provided with a push part (4961). The release member (482) extends with a release member extension end (4821) opposite to the push part (4961). The push part (4961) can push against the release member extension end (4821) to drive the release member (482) to unlock and trip the N-pole operating mechanism (480).

5. The residual current operated circuit breaker according to claim 4, characterized in that: The push rod (496) includes a push rod body (4962), one end of which is connected to the push part (4961), and the other end of which passes through the stationary iron core (493) and is connected to the moving iron core (494).

6. The residual current operated circuit breaker according to claim 5, characterized in that: The moving iron core (494) includes a linkage column (4942); the other end of the top rod body (4962) is provided with a linkage groove (4963) that cooperates with the linkage column (4942), and the linkage column (4942) is inserted and fixed in the linkage groove (4963).

7. The residual current operated circuit breaker according to claim 5, characterized in that: The top rod body (4962) has a columnar structure, and the pushing part (4961) has a straight plate structure.

8. The residual current operated circuit breaker according to claim 2, characterized in that: The mounting cavity (4911) is a square through hole that extends through the coil frame (491) along its length. The moving iron core (494) includes a moving iron core body (4941), which is a square block structure that mates with the mounting cavity (4911). The moving iron core body (4941) is slidably disposed within the mounting cavity (4911). The stationary iron core (493) includes a stationary iron core body (4931), which is a square block structure that mates with the mounting cavity (4911). The stationary iron core body (4931) is fixed within the mounting cavity (4911).

9. The residual current operated circuit breaker according to claim 1, characterized in that: The N-pole unit (400) further includes an N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber (430), which is located on the side of the N-pole moving contact (440) away from the N-pole operating mechanism (480).

10. The residual current operated circuit breaker according to claim 9, characterized in that: It also includes an insulating partition (900), which is located on one side of the N-pole moving contact (440), the N-pole stationary contact (450) and the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber (430). The insulating partition (900) is provided with a raised arc-blocking rib (902), which is located on the side of the N-pole arc-extinguishing chamber (430) away from the N-pole moving contact (440).