Locking structure of plug-in circuit breaker and plug-in circuit breaker
By combining a handle and a locking mechanism, the circuit breaker can be automatically locked or unlocked, solving the safety and compactness issues of existing plug-in circuit breakers and achieving safe plugging and unplugging as well as miniaturization.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ZHEJIANG CHINT ELECTRIC CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-01-20
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-21
Smart Images
Figure CN122436414A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of low-voltage electrical appliances, and more specifically to a locking structure for a plug-in circuit breaker and the plug-in circuit breaker itself. Background Technology
[0002] Plug-in circuit breakers need to be installed in meter boxes or cabinets for use. During the installation and maintenance of circuit breakers, there are often electric shock accidents caused by incorrect opening and closing. For example, installing or removing the circuit breaker while it is closed can lead to electric shock accidents.
[0003] Furthermore, existing plug-in circuit breaker locking structures typically include a locking element that engages with the meter box or cabinet limit switch to lock the handle, preventing plugging and unplugging when the circuit breaker is closed. An unlocking element is also usually required to release the locking element from the meter box or cabinet limit switch, allowing plugging and unplugging when the circuit breaker is open, resulting in a complex structure. In addition, existing locking mechanisms for locking the handle also suffer from structural complexity and unreliable locking and unlocking mechanisms.
[0004] In addition, existing plug-in circuit breakers have the problem of loose and non-compact layout, resulting in excessively large circuit breaker sizes. However, plug-in circuit breakers require frequent plugging and unplugging operations, and the large size of the circuit breaker causes great inconvenience to users. Summary of the Invention
[0005] The purpose of this invention is to overcome at least one defect of the prior art and to provide a locking structure for a plug-in circuit breaker and a plug-in circuit breaker.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:
[0007] A locking structure for a pluggable circuit breaker, wherein the circuit breaker housing has an anti-pull-out hole, the locking structure includes...
[0008] A handle for driving the circuit breaker to open and close. The handle is rotatably disposed at the operating end of the housing and can rotate between the closed position and the open position. The handle includes a locking engagement part and a blocking part.
[0009] A locking element is slidably disposed within the housing and is movable between a first position and a second position. The locking element includes a locking part and a limiting part. When the locking element is in the first position, the limiting part extends out of the anti-pull hole, and when the locking element is in the second position, the limiting part retracts into the anti-pull hole.
[0010] The elastic element, connected to the locking element, is used to drive the locking element to move to the first position;
[0011] When the handle is in the closed position, the blocking part prevents the locking member from moving from the first position to the second position;
[0012] When the handle is in the open position, the locking member is in the first position where the limiting part extends out of the anti-pull hole and can move to the second position under force. When the locking member moves to the second position against the force of the elastic member, the locking part and the locking engagement part lock and engage to prevent the handle from rotating from the open position to the closed position.
[0013] Optionally, the limiting part is provided with a first activated inclined surface, a mating surface and a second activated inclined surface connected in sequence. The first activated inclined surface and the second activated inclined surface are respectively set at an angle to the insertion and removal direction of the circuit breaker. When the mating surface is subjected to force, it can limit the locking member to the second position.
[0014] Optionally, the mating surface is a plane parallel to the insertion and removal direction of the circuit breaker.
[0015] Optionally, the locking engagement part is a groove structure radially recessed in the handle, and the locking part is a boss structure protruding from the handle in the direction of the locking member.
[0016] Optionally, the blocking part is a boss structure with radial protrusion on the handle. The blocking part and the locking engagement part are arranged adjacent to each other in the direction of rotation of the handle toward the closed position. When the handle is in the closed position, the blocking part is located on the path of the locking part moving toward the second position.
[0017] Optionally, the locking member is provided with a clearance groove adjacent to the locking part, the clearance groove being used to avoid the blocking part when the locking part is locked in the locking mating part.
[0018] Optionally, the insertion and removal direction of the circuit breaker, the sliding direction of the locking member, and the rotation axis direction of the handle are perpendicular to each other.
[0019] Optionally, it also includes a pulling device, which is rotatably connected to the operating end of the housing. The pulling device is rotatable between a retracted position and an open position, and is used to drive the handle located in the closed position to rotate to the open position when rotating from the retracted position to the open position.
[0020] A pluggable circuit breaker, including the locking structure of any one of the pluggable circuit breakers described above.
[0021] Optionally, it also includes an operating mechanism, an electromagnetic system and a thermal system for driving the operating mechanism to trip, an arc extinguishing device, a first terminal, a second terminal, a moving contact and a stationary contact, wherein the operating mechanism is connected between the handle of the locking structure and the moving contact, and the first terminal and the second terminal are both located at the terminal of the housing away from the operating end;
[0022] The handle, electromagnetic system, stationary contact, and first terminal are arranged sequentially along a first direction. The thermal system is at least partially arranged along the first direction with the second terminal. The first and second terminals are arranged sequentially along a second direction. The operating mechanism is located on one side of the handle and electromagnetic system in the second direction. At least part of the operating mechanism is located between the electromagnetic system and the thermal system in the second direction. The electromagnetic system and the locking element of the locking structure are arranged sequentially along a third direction. The arc extinguishing device is located within the area enclosed by the electromagnetic system, the first terminal, the thermal system, and the stationary contact. The first, second, and third directions are perpendicular to each other.
[0023] Optionally, the moving iron core of the electromagnetic system is set to move in the second direction.
[0024] Optionally, the arc-extinguishing device includes a first arc-extinguishing chamber and a second arc-extinguishing chamber. The first arc-extinguishing chamber is located between the electromagnetic system and the first terminal in a first direction, and on the side of the stationary contact away from the moving contact in a second direction. The first arc-extinguishing chamber includes a plurality of first arc-extinguishing grids arranged at intervals. The second arc-extinguishing chamber is located between the first terminal and the thermal system in a second direction. The second arc-extinguishing chamber includes a plurality of second arc-extinguishing grids arranged at intervals. The first arc-extinguishing grids and the second arc-extinguishing grids are arranged at an angle.
[0025] Optionally, the first arc-extinguishing grid is arranged perpendicular to the first direction; the second arc-extinguishing grid is arranged inclined towards the moving contact near the break position.
[0026] Optionally, the arc-extinguishing device further includes an arc-initiating element located between the first arc-extinguishing chamber and the second arc-extinguishing chamber.
[0027] Optionally, the arc-starting element has a V-shaped structure with its opening facing the first terminal. One end of the arc-starting element near the first arc-extinguishing chamber is parallel to the first arc-extinguishing grid, and the other end of the arc-starting element near the second arc-extinguishing chamber is parallel to the second arc-extinguishing grid.
[0028] Optionally, the stationary contact includes a stationary contact plate and a stationary contact point disposed on the stationary contact plate, wherein the end of the stationary contact plate with the stationary contact point is bent toward the first arc-extinguishing chamber and has an arc-inducing angle.
[0029] Optionally, the thermal system includes a bimetallic strip, an arc-quenching element, and a conductive sheet. One end of the bimetallic strip is connected to one end of the arc-quenching element and is connected to a second terminal through the conductive sheet. The other end of the bimetallic strip is located on the side of the moving contact away from the stationary contact. The middle part of the arc-quenching element protrudes towards the moving contact near the break position and has an arc-quenching portion. The other end of the arc-quenching element is arranged parallel to one side of the second arc-extinguishing chamber.
[0030] Optionally, a portion of the thermal system is located between the first terminal and the second terminal in the second direction, and another portion of the thermal system and the second terminal are arranged sequentially along the first direction; the terminal is provided with a first wiring hole corresponding to the first terminal and a second wiring hole corresponding to the second terminal.
[0031] The locking structure and plug-in circuit breaker of the present invention prevent the locking member from retracting into the housing by means of the handle located in the closed position. During the plugging and unplugging process of the circuit breaker, the locking member is forced to retract into the housing to lock the handle in the open position, so that the circuit breaker cannot be plugged or unplugged while energized, thus ensuring safety.
[0032] In addition, the force-bearing part of the locking component switches between the inclined surface and the mating surface, so that the locking component can automatically extend or retract into the housing during the insertion and removal of the circuit breaker, without the need for an additional unlocking component, thus simplifying the structure.
[0033] In addition, the locking structure between the locking member and the handle is simple. The locking part can extend into the locking mating part to stably lock the handle, and it is also convenient for the locking part to quickly exit the locking mating part to release the lock between the locking member and the handle.
[0034] In addition, the locking part can cooperate with the locking engagement part to lock the handle in the open position, and can also cooperate with the blocking part to prevent the locking part from retracting into the housing, thus simplifying the structure of the locking part.
[0035] Furthermore, by moving the operating mechanism above the handle and the electromagnetic system, the electromagnetic system, stationary contact, and moving contact are offset towards the handle, saving space and freeing up more space for the arc extinguishing device. This improves the arc extinguishing capability and makes the layout more compact and reasonable, reducing the size of the circuit breaker in the first direction, making the circuit breaker more compact and miniaturized, and facilitating the insertion and removal of the circuit breaker. Attached Figure Description
[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit breaker in the open state of the present invention;
[0037] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the circuit breaker of the present invention in the state of being closed and unable to be inserted into the meter box;
[0038] Figure 3 This is a view of the circuit breaker of the present invention in a closed state and unable to be inserted into the meter box;
[0039] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the circuit breaker of the present invention in the state of being plugged in or unplugged and unable to be closed;
[0040] Figure 5 This is a view of the circuit breaker of the present invention in a state where it is being plugged in or unplugged and cannot be closed;
[0041] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the circuit breaker of the present invention in its final installation state;
[0042] Figure 7 This is a view of the invention in its final installation state;
[0043] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the circuit breaker in the open state of the present invention;
[0044] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the circuit breaker in the closed state of the present invention;
[0045] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the locking component of the present invention;
[0046] Figure 11 This is a view of the locking component of the present invention.
[0047] 100 housing; 101 anti-pull hole; 102 operating end; 103 wiring terminal; 104 first wiring hole; 105 second wiring hole; 106 positioning step; 200 handle; 201 locking mating part; 202 blocking part; 203 driven part; 300 locking element; 301 locking part; 302 clearance groove; 303 limiting part; 304 first driven inclined surface; 305 mating surface; 306 second driven inclined surface; 307 connecting platform; 310 elastic element; 400 pulling device; 401 driving part; 500 operating mechanism; 510 electromagnetic system; 600 thermal system; bimetallic Plate 610; Flexible connector 611; Arc-inducing component 620; Arc-inducing part 621; Conductive plate 630; Arc-extinguishing device 700; First arc-extinguishing chamber 710; First arc-extinguishing grid plate 711; First side plate 712; Second arc-extinguishing chamber 720; Second arc-extinguishing grid plate 721; Second side plate 722; Arc-inducing component 730; First terminal block 800; Second terminal block 810; Moving contact 820; Stationary contact 830; Stationary contact plate 831; Stationary contact point 832; Arc-inducing angle 833; Positioning plate 900; Limiting hole 901; Cover plate 910; First busbar 920; Second busbar 930. Detailed Implementation
[0048] The locking structure of the plug-in circuit breaker and specific embodiments of the present invention are further illustrated below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The locking structure of the plug-in circuit breaker and the plug-in circuit breaker of the present invention are not limited to the descriptions in the following embodiments.
[0049] like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, pluggable circuit breakers are typically pluggable and removable installed in meter boxes or cabinets. Exemplarily, in this embodiment, the pluggable circuit breaker is pluggable and removable installed in a meter box, which includes an openable cover 910 and a positioning plate 900 for guiding and positioning the circuit breaker during installation. The circuit breaker is slidably mounted on the positioning plate 900, meaning the insertion / removal direction of the circuit breaker is parallel to the positioning plate 900. The circuit breaker can switch between an insertion / removal state and a final installation state. The circuit breaker includes a housing 100, with an anti-pull-out hole 101 on the side of the housing 100 facing the positioning plate 900. A positioning step 106 is provided on the operating end 102 of the housing 100. When the cover 910 is closed, it covers the operating end 102 of the housing 100 and abuts against the positioning step 106.
[0050] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the plug-in circuit breaker of this embodiment includes a locking structure for engaging with a meter box or cabinet. The locking structure includes a handle 200 for driving the circuit breaker to open or close, a locking member 300 slidably disposed within the housing 100, and an elastic member 310 connected to the locking member 300. The handle 200 is rotatably disposed at the operating end 102 of the housing 100 and can rotate between a closed position and an open position. The handle 200 includes a locking engagement portion 201 and a blocking portion 202. The locking member 300 can move between a first position and a second position. The locking member 300 includes a locking portion 301 that locks into the locking engagement portion 201 and an anti-pull hole. The limiting part 303, which is matched with the locking member 300, can extend or retract the anti-pull hole 101. When the locking member 300 is in the first position, the limiting part 303 extends out of the anti-pull hole 101. When the locking member 300 is in the second position, the limiting part 303 retracts out of the anti-pull hole 101. The elastic member 310 is used to drive the locking member 300 to move to the first position. The locking member 300 can overcome the force of the elastic member 310 to move to the second position. The force on the locking member 300 can come from human hand pressing, or the pressure of the positioning plate 900, or the drive of other transmission mechanisms.
[0051] When the handle 200 is in the closed position, the blocking part 202 blocks the locking member 300 from moving from the first position to the second position, so that the limiting part 303 cannot retract the anti-pull hole 101, and the circuit breaker in the closed state cannot be inserted or pulled out.
[0052] When the handle 200 is in the open position, the blocking part 202 rotates to avoid the locking member 300. At this time, the locking engagement part 201 corresponds to the locking part 301 of the locking member 300. The locking member 300 is in the first position where the limiting part 303 extends out of the anti-pull hole 101 and can move to the second position under force. When the locking member 300 moves to the second position against the force of the elastic member 310, the limiting part 303 retracts into the anti-pull hole 101, and the locking part 301 and the locking engagement part 201 lock and engage to prevent the handle 200 from rotating from the open position to the closed position. After the locking member 300 is released from force, the elastic member 310 drives the locking member 300 to move to the first position, so that the limiting part 303 extends out of the anti-pull hole 101, and the locking part 301 and the locking engagement part 201 are released from the locking engagement, and the handle 200 can rotate from the open position to the closed position.
[0053] like Figures 3-5 As shown, when the circuit breaker is in the insertion or removal state, the positioning plate 900 can drive the limiting part 303 to retract the anti-pull hole 101, and make the locking part 301 of the locking member 300 lock into the locking engagement part 201, so that the handle 200 cannot be rotated in the direction of the closing position; as Figures 6-7 As shown, when the circuit breaker is in the final installation state, that is, after the circuit breaker is installed in place, the elastic element 310 can drive the locking element 300, so that the limiting part 303 extends out of the anti-pull hole 101 and engages with the positioning plate 900, thereby releasing the locking part 301 of the locking element 300 from the locking engagement part 201. At this time, the handle 200 can rotate from the open position to the closed position to perform the closing operation.
[0054] The locking structure and pluggable circuit breaker of this embodiment prevent the locking member 300 from retracting into the housing 100 by the handle 200 in the closed position. During the plugging and unplugging process of the circuit breaker, the locking member 300 is forced to retract into the housing 100 to lock the handle 200 in the open position. This ensures that the circuit breaker cannot be plugged or unplugged while energized, whether before, during, or after plugging or unplugging, thus ensuring safety.
[0055] Preferably, the insertion / removal direction of the circuit breaker, the sliding direction of the locking member 300, and the rotation axis direction of the handle 200 are perpendicular to each other. This simplifies the structure and operational relationships and facilitates a compact and reasonable arrangement. Of course, the insertion / removal direction of the circuit breaker, the sliding direction of the locking member 300, and the rotation axis direction of the handle 200 can also be set at other angles.
[0056] like Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 7As shown, the mating structure between the positioning plate 900 and the locking member 300 in this embodiment includes a first activated inclined surface 304, a mating surface 305, and a second activated inclined surface 306 connected in sequence on the limiting part 303 of the locking member 300. The first activated inclined surface 304 and the second activated inclined surface 306 are respectively set at an angle to the insertion and removal direction of the circuit breaker, that is, the first activated inclined surface 304 and the second activated inclined surface 306 are not set perpendicular to the insertion and removal direction of the circuit breaker. When the mating surface 305 is subjected to force, it limits the locking member 300 to a second position. The positioning plate 900 is provided with a limiting hole 901.
[0057] like Figures 2-5 As shown, when the circuit breaker is in the inserted state, the first activated inclined surface 304 can interfere with the side edge of the positioning plate 900 in the thickness direction to drive the locking member 300, causing the limiting part 303 to retract into the anti-pullout hole 101, and the positioning plate 900 abuts against the mating surface 305, so that the limiting part 303 cannot extend out of the anti-pullout hole 101; Figures 6-7 As shown, when the circuit breaker is in the final installation state, the limiting part 303 is limited within the limiting hole 901; when the circuit breaker is in the removal state, the second activated inclined surface 306 can interfere with one side wall of the limiting hole 901 to drive the locking member 300, causing the limiting part 303 to retract into the anti-removal hole 101, and the positioning plate 900 abuts against the mating surface 305, keeping the limiting part 303 from extending out of the anti-removal hole 101. The force-bearing part of the locking member 300 switches between the inclined surface and the mating surface 305, realizing that the locking member 300 automatically extends or retracts into the housing 100 during the circuit breaker insertion and removal process, without the need for an additional unlocking member, simplifying the structure.
[0058] Preferably, the mating surface 305 is a plane parallel to the insertion and removal direction of the circuit breaker. This structure is simple and easy to construct. Of course, the mating surface 305 can also be an arc surface or other structures. The first activated inclined surface 304 and the second activated inclined surface 306 are symmetrically arranged, that is, the angle between the first activated inclined surface 304 and the insertion direction of the circuit breaker and the angle between the second activated inclined surface 306 and the removal direction of the circuit breaker are the same. Of course, the first activated inclined surface 304 and the second activated inclined surface 306 can also be arranged at different angles to the insertion and removal directions of the circuit breaker.
[0059] like Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the locking structure between the locking member 300 and the handle 200 in this embodiment has the following characteristics: the locking engagement portion 201 of the handle 200 is a radially recessed groove structure, and the locking portion 301 of the locking member 300 is a protrusion structure protruding from the locking member 300 toward the handle 200. The locking structure between the locking member 300 and the handle 200 is simple. The locking portion 301 can extend into the locking engagement portion 201 to stably lock the handle 200, and it is also convenient for the locking portion 301 to quickly exit the locking engagement portion 201 to release the lock between the locking member 300 and the handle 200.
[0060] Preferably, the blocking part 202 of the handle 200 is a boss structure that protrudes radially from the handle 200. The blocking part 202 and the locking engagement part 201 are arranged adjacent to each other in the direction in which the handle 200 rotates towards the closed position. When the handle 200 is in the closed position, the blocking part 202 is located on the path of the locking part 301 moving towards the second position, preventing the limiting part 303 from retracting the anti-pull hole 101. The locking part 301 can cooperate with the locking engagement part 201 to lock the handle 200 in the open position, and can also cooperate with the blocking part 202 to prevent the locking part 300 from retracting into the outer shell 100, simplifying the structure of the locking part 300.
[0061] Specifically, the blocking part 202 is provided with a sliding arc surface that slides in cooperation with the locking part 301. The sliding arc surface is arranged along the rotation direction of the handle 200 to reduce the frictional resistance between the blocking part 202 and the locking part 301, so as to facilitate the opening and closing operation of the handle 200.
[0062] Furthermore, the locking member 300 is provided with a relief groove 302 adjacent to the locking part 301. The relief groove 302 is used to avoid the blocking part 202 when the locking part 301 is locked in the locking engagement part 201. This facilitates a compact arrangement of the locking member 300 and the handle 200.
[0063] For example, such as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, one end of the locking member 300 protrudes upward to form the locking portion 301, and the other end of the locking member 300 protrudes downward to form the limiting portion 303. A connecting platform 307 protrudes horizontally from the middle of the locking member 300. The elastic member 310 is preferably a compression spring, with one end connected to the connecting platform 307. Of course, the elastic member 310 can also be a tension spring, leaf spring, or torsion spring, etc.
[0064] like Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the locking structure of the plug-in circuit breaker in this embodiment further includes a pull-out device 400. The pull-out device 400 is rotatably connected to the operating end 102 of the housing 100. The pull-out device 400 can rotate between a retracted position and an open position, and when rotating from the retracted position to the open position, the pull-out device 400 drives the handle 200, which is in the closed position, to rotate to the open position. Preferably, when the pull-out device 400 is in the retracted position, it is close to the operating end 102 or retracted into the receiving groove on the operating end 102. When the pull-out device 400 is in the open position, it is perpendicular to the plane where the operating end 102 is located, facilitating the pull-out operation.
[0065] like Figure 8 As shown, the pulling device 400 is in the retracted position, and the handle 200 is in the closed position; when it is necessary to pull out the circuit breaker, rotate the pulling device 400 to the open position (e.g., rotate 90° counterclockwise), as shown. Figure 9 As shown, the pulling device 400 drives the handle 200 to rotate counterclockwise to the open position. At this time, the blocking part 202 of the handle 200 no longer blocks the locking part 301 of the locking member 300, meaning the circuit breaker is in a pull-out state. The pulling device 400 can be used for circuit breaker pulling operations, and can also release the blocking of the locking member 300 by the handle 200 by driving the handle 200, improving the convenience and safety of use.
[0066] For example, the pulling device 400 of this embodiment includes a driving part 401, and the handle 200 includes a driven part 203. The driven part 203 is located on the path of the driving part 401 moving from the retracted position to the open position. During the rotation of the pulling device 400 to the open position, the driving part 401 can push against the driven part 203 to drive the handle 200 to rotate to the open position. As another embodiment, a boss can also be provided on the side wall near the handle 200 when the pulling device 400 is in the open position as the driving part 401. During the rotation of the pulling device 400 to the open position, the boss drives the handle 200 to rotate to the open position.
[0067] like Figure 1 and Figure 6As shown, the plug-in circuit breaker of this embodiment further includes an operating mechanism 500, an electromagnetic system 510 and a thermal system 600 for driving the operating mechanism 500 to trip, an arc-extinguishing device 700, a first terminal 800 for connecting to the first busbar 920, a second terminal 810 for connecting to the second busbar 930, and cooperating moving contacts 820 and stationary contacts 830. The moving contacts 820 and stationary contacts 830 are electrically connected to the first terminal 800 and the second terminal 810, respectively. In this embodiment, the electromagnetic system 510 is electrically connected to the first terminal 800 and the stationary contact 830. Between 0 and 0, the thermal system 600 is electrically connected between the second terminal 810 and the moving contact 820, and the operating mechanism 500 is connected between the handle 200 of the locking structure and the moving contact 820. The handle 200 can drive the operating mechanism 500 to make the moving contact 820 contact or separate from the stationary contact 830. The electromagnetic system 510 is used to trigger the operating mechanism 500 to trip when there is a short circuit, and the thermal system 600 is used to trigger the operating mechanism 500 to trip when there is an overload. The first terminal 800 and the second terminal 810 are both located at the terminal 103 of the housing 100 away from the operating end 102.
[0068] The handle 200, electromagnetic system 510, stationary contact 830, and first terminal 800 are arranged sequentially along a first direction. The thermal system 600 is at least partially arranged along the first direction with the second terminal 810. The first terminal 800 and the second terminal 810 are arranged sequentially along a second direction. The operating mechanism 500 is located on one side of the handle 200 and electromagnetic system 510 in the second direction. The operating mechanism 500 is at least partially located between the electromagnetic system 510 and thermal system 600 in the second direction. The electromagnetic system 510 and the locking member 300 of the locking structure are arranged sequentially along a third direction. The arc extinguishing device 700 is located within the area enclosed by the electromagnetic system 510, the second terminal 810, the thermal system 600, and the stationary contact 830. The first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.
[0069] It should be noted that the first direction is Figure 1 The X direction in the diagram is also the insertion direction of the circuit breaker; the second direction is... Figure 1 The Y direction in the diagram is also the direction in which the locking element 300 retracts into the outer shell 100; the third direction is... Figure 1The direction perpendicular to the drawing is also the direction of the rotation axis of the handle 200. The operating mechanism 500 is existing technology and typically includes a linkage structure. The linkage structure usually includes a linkage, a lever, a latch and a release latch. The latch and release latch are rotatably mounted on the lever. The linkage connects the release latch and the handle 200. The moving contact is mounted on the lever. The handle 200 drives the moving contact 820 to contact or separate from the stationary contact 830 through the linkage structure. The electromagnetic system 510 and the thermal system 600 push the latch to rotate to release the latch and release latch, which can disengage the operating mechanism 500 and cause the moving contact 820 to separate from the stationary contact 830, thus achieving tripping protection. This will not be described in detail here.
[0070] In this embodiment of the plug-in circuit breaker, by moving the operating mechanism 500 above the handle 200 and the electromagnetic system 510, the electromagnetic system 510, the stationary contact 830 and the moving contact 820 are offset towards the handle 200, saving space and making more room for the arc extinguishing device 700, which can improve the arc extinguishing capability and make the layout more compact and reasonable. The size of the circuit breaker in the first direction is reduced, making the circuit breaker more compact and miniaturized, and facilitating the plug-in and plug-out operation of the circuit breaker.
[0071] In this embodiment, both the first terminal 800 and the second terminal 810 are elastic clip structures. The connection direction between the first terminal 800 and the first busbar 920 is set along the first direction, and the connection direction between the second terminal 810 and the second busbar 930 is set along the first direction. The terminal 103 is provided with a first wiring hole 104 corresponding to the first terminal 800 and a second wiring hole 105 corresponding to the second terminal 810. The first busbar 920 and the second busbar 930 are inserted into the housing 100 along the first direction and electrically connected to the first terminal 800 and the second terminal 810. The first busbar 920 and the second busbar 930 are respectively used to connect the power supply and the load.
[0072] Preferably, the direction of the driving mechanism 500 of the electromagnetic system 510 is set along the second direction, that is, the direction of movement of the moving iron core of the electromagnetic system 510. This vertical arrangement of the electromagnetic system 510 makes the layout more compact and further saves space. Of course, the direction of the driving mechanism 500 of the electromagnetic system 510 can also be set at an angle to the second direction.
[0073] It should be noted that the electromagnetic system 510 is existing technology, typically including a coil frame, a coil wound on the coil frame, a moving iron core and a stationary iron core arranged opposite each other, a push rod that moves synchronously with the moving iron core, and a return spring for resetting the moving iron core. When a short-circuit current occurs in the main circuit of the circuit breaker where the coil is located, it drives the moving iron core to engage with the stationary iron core. The push rod moves with the moving iron core to push the latch to rotate, causing the operating mechanism to unlock and release, thus realizing the circuit breaker's circuit breaking protection. This will not be elaborated further here. The direction in which the electromagnetic system 510 drives the operating mechanism 500 refers to the direction of movement of the push rod during the engagement of the moving iron core and the stationary iron core.
[0074] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the arc-extinguishing device 700 of this embodiment includes a first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 and a second arc-extinguishing chamber 720. The first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 is located between the electromagnetic system 510 and the first terminal 800 in a first direction, and on the side of the stationary contact 830 away from the moving contact 820 in a second direction. The first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 includes a plurality of first arc-extinguishing grid plates 711 arranged at intervals. The second arc-extinguishing chamber 720 is located between the first terminal 800 and the thermal system 600 in a second direction. The second arc-extinguishing chamber 720 includes a plurality of second arc-extinguishing grid plates 721 arranged at intervals. The first arc-extinguishing grid plates 711 and the second arc-extinguishing grid plates 721 are arranged at an angle. The angled arrangement of the first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 and the second arc-extinguishing chamber 720 facilitates the arrangement of more arc-extinguishing grid plates in a limited space, thereby improving the breaking capacity.
[0075] In this embodiment, the first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 and the second arc-extinguishing chamber 720 are separately arranged. The first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 further includes two first side plates 712, which are arranged opposite each other at a distance along a third direction, and the first arc-extinguishing grid plate 711 is disposed between the two first side plates 712. The second arc-extinguishing chamber 720 further includes two second side plates 722, which are arranged opposite each other at a distance along a third direction, and the second arc-extinguishing grid plate 721 is disposed between the two second side plates 722. The side plates and the arc-extinguishing grid plate can be designed in conventional shapes, which is highly versatile and easy to manufacture.
[0076] Of course, as another embodiment, the first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 and the second arc-extinguishing chamber 720 can also be integrally arranged. The arc-extinguishing device 700 also includes two third side plates shared by the first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 and the second arc-extinguishing chamber 720. The two third side plates are arranged opposite each other at a distance along a third direction, and the first arc-extinguishing grid plate 711 and the second arc-extinguishing grid plate 721 are respectively disposed between the two third side plates. As another embodiment, the arc-extinguishing device 700 can also include only a single large-sized arc-extinguishing chamber. The arc-extinguishing chamber is at least partially located between the first terminal 800 and the second terminal 810 in a second direction, and the arc-extinguishing chamber is arranged in an arc shape.
[0077] Preferably, the first arc-extinguishing grid plate 711 of the first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 is arranged perpendicular to the first direction, so that the first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 can be equipped with a larger number of arc-extinguishing grid plates, thereby improving the arc-extinguishing capability. The second arc-extinguishing grid plate 721 of the second arc-extinguishing chamber 720 is inclined towards the moving contact 820 near the breaking position, which is more conducive to the extinguishing of the arc and improves the arc-extinguishing effect.
[0078] Furthermore, the arc-extinguishing device 700 of this embodiment also includes an arc-initiating element 730, which is located between the first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 and the second arc-extinguishing chamber 720. The arc-initiating element 730 enables the electric arc to be rapidly transferred from the second arc-extinguishing chamber 720 into the first arc-extinguishing chamber 710.
[0079] Preferably, the arc-inducing element 730 has a V-shaped structure with its opening facing the first terminal 800. One end of the arc-inducing element 730 near the first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 is parallel to the first arc-extinguishing grid plate 711, and the other end of the arc-inducing element 730 near the second arc-extinguishing chamber 720 is parallel to the second arc-extinguishing grid plate 721.
[0080] In this embodiment, the stationary contact 830 includes a stationary contact plate 831 electrically connected to the electromagnetic system 510 and a stationary contact point 832 disposed on the stationary contact plate 831. The end of the stationary contact plate 831 with the stationary contact point 832 is bent towards the first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 and has an arc-inducing angle 833, which facilitates the rapid transfer of the electric arc on the stationary contact 830 to the first arc-extinguishing chamber 710.
[0081] Preferably, a portion of the thermal system 600 is located in the second direction between the first terminal 800 and the second terminal 810, and the other portion of the thermal system 600 and the second terminal (810) are arranged sequentially along the first direction.
[0082] In this embodiment, the thermal system 600 includes a bimetallic strip 610, an arc-quenching element 620, and a conductive sheet 630. One end of the bimetallic strip 610 is connected to one end of the arc-quenching element 620 and is connected to the second terminal 810 via the conductive sheet 630. The other end of the bimetallic strip 610 is located on the side of the moving contact 820 away from the stationary contact 830 and is electrically connected to the moving contact 820 via a flexible connection 611. The arc-quenching element 620 has an arc-quenching portion 621 protruding from its middle towards the moving contact 820 near the break position. The other end of the arc-quenching element 620 is arranged parallel to one side of the second arc-extinguishing chamber 720, facilitating the rapid transfer of the arc on the moving contact 820 to the second arc-extinguishing chamber 720. It should be noted that a part of the thermal system 600 refers to the other end of the bimetallic strip 610, and the other part of the thermal system 600 includes one end of the bimetallic strip 610, the conductive sheet 630, and the arc-quenching element 620.
[0083] When the moving contact 820 and the stationary contact 830 separate and an electric arc is generated, the electric arc on the stationary contact 830 enters the first arc-extinguishing chamber 710 along the arc-starting angle 83, and the electric arc on the moving contact 820 jumps to the arc-starting part 621 of the arc-starting member 620, and then moves along the arc-starting member 620 into the second arc-extinguishing chamber 720.
[0084] 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.
[0085] 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 locking structure for a pluggable circuit breaker, wherein the circuit breaker housing (100) is provided with an anti-pull-out hole (101), characterized in that: The locking structure includes A handle (200) is used to drive the circuit breaker to open and close. The handle (200) is rotatably disposed on the operating end (102) of the housing (100) and can rotate between the closed position and the open position. The handle (200) includes a locking engagement part (201) and a blocking part (202). A locking member (300) is slidably disposed within the housing (100) and is movable between a first position and a second position. The locking member (300) includes a locking part (301) and a limiting part (303). When the locking member (300) is in the first position, the limiting part (303) extends out of the anti-pull hole (101), and when the locking member (300) is in the second position, the limiting part (303) retracts into the anti-pull hole (101). An elastic element (310) is connected to a locking element (300) and is used to drive the locking element (300) to move to a first position; When the handle (200) is in the closed position, the blocking part (202) blocks the locking member (300) from moving from the first position to the second position; When the handle (200) is in the open position, the locking member (300) is in the first position where the limiting part (303) extends out of the anti-pull hole (101) and can move to the second position under force. When the locking member (300) moves to the second position under force against the action of the elastic member (310), the locking part (301) and the locking engagement part (201) lock and engage to prevent the handle (200) from rotating from the open position to the closed position.
2. The locking structure of the plug-in circuit breaker according to claim 1, characterized in that: The limiting part (303) is provided with a first active inclined surface (304), a mating surface (305), and a second active inclined surface (306) connected in sequence. The first active inclined surface (304) and the second active inclined surface (306) are respectively set at an angle to the insertion and removal direction of the circuit breaker. When the mating surface (305) is subjected to force, it can limit the locking member (300) to the second position.
3. The locking structure of the pluggable circuit breaker according to claim 2, characterized in that: The mating surface (305) is a plane parallel to the insertion and removal direction of the circuit breaker.
4. The locking structure of the pluggable circuit breaker according to claim 1, characterized in that: The locking engagement part (201) is a groove structure that is radially recessed in the handle (200), and the locking part (301) is a boss structure that is protruded from the locking member (300) toward the handle (200).
5. The locking structure of the pluggable circuit breaker according to claim 4, characterized in that: The blocking part (202) is a boss structure that is radially protruding from the handle (200). The blocking part (202) and the locking engagement part (201) are arranged adjacent to each other in the direction of rotation of the handle (200) toward the closed position. When the handle (200) is in the closed position, the blocking part (202) is located on the path of the locking part (301) moving toward the second position.
6. The locking structure of the pluggable circuit breaker according to claim 5, characterized in that: The locking member (300) is provided with a relief groove (302) adjacent to the locking part (301), the relief groove (302) is used to avoid the blocking part (202) when the locking part (301) is locked in the locking mating part (201).
7. The locking structure of the pluggable circuit breaker according to claim 1, characterized in that: The insertion and removal direction of the circuit breaker, the sliding direction of the locking member (300), and the rotation axis direction of the handle (200) are perpendicular to each other.
8. The locking structure of the pluggable circuit breaker according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a pull-out device (400) which is rotatably connected to the operating end (102) of the housing (100). The pull-out device (400) is rotatable between a retracted position and an open position, and the pull-out device (400) is used to drive the handle (200) located in the closed position to rotate to the open position when rotating from the retracted position to the open position.
9. A pluggable circuit breaker, characterized in that: Includes the locking structure of the plug-in circuit breaker as described in any one of claims 1-8.
10. The pluggable circuit breaker according to claim 9, characterized in that: It also includes an operating mechanism (500), an electromagnetic system (510) and a thermal system (600) for driving the operating mechanism (500) to trip, an arc extinguishing device (700), a first terminal (800), a second terminal (810), a moving contact (820) and a stationary contact (830). The operating mechanism (500) is connected between the handle (200) of the locking structure and the moving contact (820). The first terminal (800) and the second terminal (810) are both located at the terminal (103) of the housing (100) away from the operating end (102). The handle (200), electromagnetic system (510), stationary contact (830), and first terminal (800) are arranged sequentially along a first direction. The thermal system (600) is at least partially arranged along the first direction with the second terminal (810). The first terminal (800) and the second terminal (810) are arranged sequentially along a second direction. The operating mechanism (500) is located on one side of the handle (200) and electromagnetic system (510) in the second direction. The operating mechanism (500) is at least partially located between the electromagnetic system (510) and thermal system (600) in the second direction. The electromagnetic system (510) and the locking member (300) of the locking structure are arranged sequentially along a third direction. The arc extinguishing device (700) is located within the area enclosed by the electromagnetic system (510), first terminal (800), thermal system (600), and stationary contact (830). The first direction, second direction, and third direction are perpendicular to each other.