Pneumatic tripping mechanism and circuit breaker

Abstract

This application relates to a pneumatic tripping mechanism and circuit breaker for installation with a single-pole module. The pneumatic tripping mechanism includes a tripping actuator, a rotating shaft, and a tripping lever. The tripping actuator is connected to the rotating shaft, which is mounted on the housing of the single-pole module, enabling the tripping actuator to rotate when driven by the expanding airflow generated by the contact pair breaking a short circuit. The tripping lever is connected to the rotating shaft, and the tripping lever, rotating shaft, and tripping actuator cooperate to form a force-saving lever structure. The tripping lever is installed and cooperates with the traction rod of the operating mechanism. Utilizing the force-saving characteristics of the force-saving lever structure, the tripping actuator and tripping lever can more easily rotate under the driving force of a small expanding airflow, improving the response speed of the tripping mechanism. This allows the tripping lever to more quickly actuate the traction rod of the operating mechanism, thereby achieving the tripping operation of the operating mechanism and quickly disconnecting the faulty circuit, ensuring the performance and reliability of the circuit breaker.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of electrical control devices, and in particular to a pneumatic tripping mechanism and circuit breaker. Background Technology

[0002] A circuit breaker is a switching device capable of closing, carrying, and interrupting current under normal circuit conditions, and capable of closing, carrying, and interrupting current under abnormal circuit conditions within a specified time. It is a critical protective device in electrical systems and is widely used in homes, industries, and power distribution systems. Circuit breakers are equipped with a tripping mechanism that triggers the operating mechanism to separate the contacts when an abnormal current is detected.

[0003] Currently, circuit breaker tripping mechanisms typically utilize the high-temperature expanding gas generated during a short circuit to push the operating mechanism out, thus disconnecting the faulty circuit. However, due to structural design flaws, existing tripping mechanisms require a large rotational stroke and pushing force to complete the tripping operation, resulting in low tripping efficiency and an inability to quickly and effectively disconnect the faulty circuit, thus affecting the circuit breaker's performance and reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a pneumatic tripping mechanism and circuit breaker to address the problem that traditional tripping technology has low efficiency and cannot quickly disconnect faulty circuits.

[0005] A first aspect of this application provides a pneumatic tripping mechanism for installation with a single-pole module. The pneumatic tripping mechanism includes: a tripping actuator, a rotating shaft, and a tripping lever. The tripping actuator is connected to the rotating shaft, which is mounted on the housing of the single-pole module, such that the tripping actuator is configured to rotate when driven by an expanding airflow generated by the breaking of a short circuit in the contact pair. The tripping lever is connected to the rotating shaft, and the tripping lever, the rotating shaft, and the tripping actuator cooperate to form a force-saving lever structure. The tripping lever is used for installation and cooperation with the traction rod of the operating mechanism.

[0006] The pneumatic tripping mechanism in this solution is installed on a single-pole module. Specifically, the tripping actuator is mounted to the housing of the single-pole module via a rotating shaft, and the tripping lever is connected to the rotating shaft. This allows the tripping lever, rotating shaft, and tripping actuator to work together to form a force-saving lever structure. When the circuit breaker contacts break a short circuit, an expanding airflow is generated. This airflow acts on the tripping actuator, driving it to rotate. Thanks to the force-saving lever structure, the tripping actuator and tripping lever rotate more easily with a smaller force from the expanding airflow, improving the response speed of the tripping mechanism. This allows the tripping lever to generate a larger output force, enabling it to more quickly actuate the operating mechanism's traction rod, thus achieving the tripping operation and rapidly disconnecting the faulty circuit, ensuring the circuit breaker's performance and reliability.

[0007] The technical solution of this application will be further described below:

[0008] In one embodiment, the tripping actuator has a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other, the first surface being disposed toward the contact pair and the second surface being disposed away from the contact pair, the first surface being driven by an expanding airflow, the tripping actuator being able to rotate away from the contact pair, and the tripping lever being disposed at an angle to the second surface.

[0009] In one embodiment, the tripping mechanism further includes an elastic reset member, one end of which is disposed on the tripping active member, and the other end of which abuts against the housing;

[0010] Alternatively, the elastic reset member includes a main body and a first abutting arm and a second abutting arm, both connected to the main body. The main body is mounted on the rotating shaft, the first abutting arm abuts against the release actuator, and the second abutting arm abuts against the housing.

[0011] In one embodiment, the elastic reset member includes a bent mounting portion and a support portion, the mounting portion being integrally formed with the tripping active member, and the support portion being spaced apart from the second surface of the tripping active member;

[0012] The inner shell wall of the housing is provided with a first stop and a second stop, the support part abuts against the first stop, and the release active member abuts against the second stop.

[0013] In one embodiment, at least two elastic reset members are provided, and the at least two elastic reset members are arranged side by side with intervals.

[0014] In one embodiment, the rotating shaft includes a main shaft body and a rotating shaft portion, the rotating shaft portion being connected to the axial end of the main shaft body, the tripping active component being integrally formed with or interference-fitted to the main shaft body, and the rotating shaft portion being rotatably inserted into the rotating shaft hole of the housing.

[0015] In one embodiment, the rotating shaft further includes an anti-rotation part, and the trip lever is provided with an anti-rotation hole. The anti-rotation part is inserted into the anti-rotation hole so that the trip lever can rotate synchronously with the tripping actuator.

[0016] In one embodiment, the tripping mechanism further includes a tripping rod rotatably disposed in the housing, one end of the tripping rod abutting against the tripping lever, and the other end of the tripping rod abutting against the traction rod of the operating mechanism.

[0017] In one embodiment, the tripping rod includes a first rod segment and a second rod segment connected by bending. The end of the first rod segment away from the second rod segment abuts against the tripping lever, and the end of the second rod segment away from the first rod segment abuts against the traction rod of the operating mechanism. The convex side of the tripping rod is arranged facing the contact pair.

[0018] In one embodiment, both the trip lever and the trip top lever are provided in pairs and are installed in a one-to-one correspondence. The contact portion of the trip top lever abuts against the corresponding traction lever, and a reinforcing rod connects the two trip top levers.

[0019] In one embodiment, the pneumatic tripping mechanism further includes an arc-extinguishing chamber disposed within the housing, and the tripping mechanism is arranged above the arc-extinguishing chamber to be offset from the exhaust side of the arc-extinguishing chamber.

[0020] In one embodiment, the tripping mechanism is arranged close to the stationary contact of the contact pair.

[0021] In one embodiment, the single-pole module further includes an arc-initiating foot connected to the stationary contact of the contact pair, and the arc-initiating foot is disposed above the arc-extinguishing chamber.

[0022] In one embodiment, the pneumatic tripping mechanism further includes a metal component mounted on the tripping actuator. The tripping actuator is made of a gas-generating material, which enables the tripping actuator to generate gas when subjected to the arc of the short circuit interrupted by the contact pair. The metal component can rotate relative to the tripping actuator when subjected to the gas.

[0023] A second aspect of this application also proposes a circuit breaker that includes a pneumatic tripping mechanism as described in any of the above embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of this application. The illustrative embodiments of this application and their descriptions are used to explain this application and do not constitute an undue limitation of this application.

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a simplified structural diagram of a circuit breaker according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit breaker before the tripping actuator rotates.

[0028] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A magnified schematic diagram of the structure at point A in the middle.

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit breaker after the tripping active component is driven to rotate by the expanding airflow.

[0030] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A magnified schematic diagram of the structure at point B in the middle.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the tripping mechanism according to one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Assembly structure diagram of the tripping active component and the rotating shaft.

[0033] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the trip lever in one embodiment.

[0034] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0035] 100. Circuit breaker; 10. Pneumatic tripping mechanism; 121. Tripping actuator; 1211. First surface; 1212. Second surface; 122. Rotating shaft; 1221. Main shaft body; 1222. Rotating shaft section; 1223. Anti-rotation section; 123. Tripping lever; 1231. Anti-rotation hole; 13. Elastic reset component; 131. Mounting section; 132. Support section; 14. Tripping push rod; 141. First rod Section; 142, Second rod section; 15, Metal part; 16, Magnetic conductive component; 17, Reinforcing rod; 20, Contact pair; 21, Stationary contact; 22, Moving contact; 30, Arc extinguishing chamber; 31, Exhaust passage; 40, Operating mechanism; 41, Traction rod; 411, Contact part; 50, Electric arc; 60, Single pole module; 61, Housing; 611, First stop part; 612, Second stop part; 70, Arc ignition foot. Detailed Implementation

[0036] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0037] In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" appear, these terms indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0038] Furthermore, where the terms "first" and "second" appear, these terms are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, where the term "multiple" appears, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0039] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0040] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the use of descriptions such as "above" or "below" the second feature indicates that the first and second features are in direct contact or indirect contact via an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. Similarly, "below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0041] It should be noted that if an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. If an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. If so, the terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0042] See Figure 1 This is a simplified structural diagram of a circuit breaker 100 according to an embodiment of this application. For example, the circuit breaker 100 is specifically a molded case circuit breaker. A molded case circuit breaker (MCCB), also known as a plastic-cased circuit breaker, is a core protective switch in low-voltage power distribution systems. It encapsulates the contacts, arc chamber, trip unit, and operating mechanism all within a robust, insulated plastic housing, resulting in a compact structure that cannot be disassembled for maintenance. Molded case circuit breakers offer manual / electric opening and closing capabilities, controlling circuit continuity; they also provide millisecond-level instantaneous tripping during short circuits, preventing equipment burnout and fires, and are widely used.

[0043] Please continue reading. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4The circuit breaker 100 includes a pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 and several single-pole modules 60. Each single-pole module 60 includes a housing 61, an arc-extinguishing chamber 30, and a contact pair 20, with the arc-extinguishing chamber 30 and the contact pair 20 installed in the housing 61.

[0044] The contact pair 20 specifically includes a stationary contact 21 and a moving contact 22. The moving contact 22 can move closer to or further away from the stationary contact 21 under the drive of the operating mechanism 40, so as to contact or disconnect with the stationary contact 21. In actual operation, when a short-circuit current is generated under abnormal operating conditions, the short-circuit current causes an electric repulsion force between the moving contact 22 and the stationary contact 21, thereby causing the closed moving contact 22 to disconnect from the stationary contact 21, and at the same time generating an electric arc; because of the generation of the electric arc, a high-temperature expanding airflow is generated, which acts on the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10. The pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 is activated, thereby actuating the operating mechanism 40, realizing the release of the operating mechanism 40, and achieving the effect of cutting off the fault circuit.

[0045] For example, combining Figure 1 As can be seen, this application provides three single-pole modules 60, which are arranged side by side and adjacent to each other. The single-pole module 60 is specifically rectangular in shape, with a regular structure. The structure is highly compact after the three single-pole modules 60 are installed, which helps to reduce space occupation and facilitates the miniaturization design of the circuit breaker 100.

[0046] For example, the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 is mounted on the middle single-pole module 60 of three single-pole modules 60 arranged side by side. More specifically, part of the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 is mounted inside the housing 61 of the middle single-pole module 60, and the remaining part is external to the housing 61 to cooperate with the operating mechanism 40.

[0047] When the circuit breaker 100 is in operation, driven by the high-temperature expanding airflow generated by the electric arc, the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 actuates, thereby causing the operating mechanism 40 of the circuit breaker 100 to release. The operating mechanism 40 can cause all the moving contacts 22 in the three single-pole modules 60 to make contact with or disconnect from the stationary contacts 21.

[0048] Please continue reading. Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 In this application, the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 includes a tripping actuator 121, a rotating shaft 122, and a tripping lever 123. The tripping actuator 121 is connected to the rotating shaft 122, which is mounted on the housing 61, such that the tripping actuator 121 is configured to rotate when driven by the expanding airflow generated by the short circuit of the contact pair 20. The tripping lever 123 is connected to the rotating shaft 122, and the tripping lever 123, the rotating shaft 122, and the tripping actuator 121 cooperate to form a force-saving lever structure. The tripping lever 123 is used to install and cooperate with the traction rod 41 of the operating mechanism 40.

[0049] In summary, implementing the technical solution of this embodiment will achieve the following beneficial effects: The pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 of this solution is used to be installed on the single-pole module 60. Specifically, the tripping active component 121 is installed on the housing 61 of the single-pole module 60 via the rotating shaft 122, and the tripping lever 123 is connected to the rotating shaft 122, so that the tripping lever 123, the rotating shaft 122 and the tripping active component 121 cooperate to form a force-saving lever structure; on this basis, when the contact pair 20 of the circuit breaker 100 breaks the short circuit, an expanding airflow is generated, and the expanding airflow acts on the tripping active component 121. The tripping actuator 121 will be driven to rotate by the force-saving lever structure. With the force-saving characteristics of the formed lever structure, the tripping actuator 121 and the tripping lever 123 can more easily generate rotation when driven by a small amount of expanding airflow. This improves the response speed of the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 and makes the tripping lever 123 generate a larger output force. This allows the tripping lever 123 to move the traction rod 41 of the operating mechanism 40 more quickly, so as to realize the tripping operation of the operating mechanism 40. This achieves the purpose of quickly cutting off the faulty circuit and ensuring the performance and reliability of the circuit breaker 100.

[0050] It is necessary to explain that the distance between the farthest side of the tripping active element 121 away from the rotating shaft 122 and the rotation center of the rotating shaft 122 is the power arm (let's call it L1), and the distance between the farthest side of the tripping lever 123 away from the rotating shaft 122 and the rotation center of the rotating shaft 122 is the resistance arm (let's call it L2). L1 is greater than L2. According to the lever balance principle: power × power arm = resistance × resistance arm (F1 × L1 = F2 × L2), when L1 > L2, F1 < F2, that is, a smaller force can overcome a larger resistance.

[0051] Please continue reading. Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 In one embodiment, the tripping actuator 121 has a first surface 1211 and a second surface 1212 disposed opposite to each other. The first surface 1211 is disposed toward the contact pair 20, and the second surface 1212 is disposed away from the contact pair 20. When the first surface 1211 is driven by an expanding airflow, the tripping actuator 121 can rotate in a direction away from the contact pair 20. The tripping lever 123 is disposed at an angle to the second surface 1212.

[0052] Specifically, the tripping actuator 121 has a plate structure, with the first surface 1211 and the second surface 1212 being two opposite sides of the tripping actuator 121 in the thickness direction. The first surface 1211 is positioned towards the contact pair 20, so that when the contact pair 20 breaks the short circuit and generates an expanding airflow that acts on the first surface 1211, it can push the tripping actuator 121 to rotate about the pivot 122 in a direction away from the contact pair 20. Since the tripping lever 123 is set at an angle to the second surface 1212, the tripping actuator 121 only needs to rotate a small stroke for the tripping lever 123 to easily rotate, thereby achieving a faster actuation of the traction rod 41 of the operating mechanism 40 to complete the tripping operation.

[0053] Please continue reading. Figure 3 ,as well as Figures 5 to 7 In practical use, the circuit breaker 100 needs to have the necessary reusability, that is, after completing one disconnection operation, the circuit breaker 100 needs to be reset to its initial state for normal use again. Accordingly, the tripping actuator 121 also needs to be in its initial position. To this end, based on the above embodiment, the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 also includes an elastic reset member 13, one end of which is disposed on the tripping actuator 121, and the other end of which abuts against the housing 61.

[0054] When the tripping actuator 121 is driven by the expanding airflow to rotate away from the contact pair 20, the elastic reset member 13 is elastically compressed and deformed due to the abutment and obstruction of the housing 61, causing the elastic reset member 13 to accumulate elastic potential energy. When the arc disappears and the expanding airflow stops, the elastic reset member 13 releases the elastic potential energy, which can automatically push the tripping actuator 121 to rotate and reset towards the contact pair 20, eliminating the need for manual reset operation and improving the user experience and work efficiency of the circuit breaker 100.

[0055] Optionally, the elastic reset element 13 can be any one of springs, sheet metal, elastic rods, etc., and can be flexibly selected according to actual needs. No specific limitation is made here.

[0056] Please continue reading. Figure 3 ,as well as Figures 5 to 7 Furthermore, in an optional embodiment, the elastic reset member 13 includes a bent mounting portion 131 and a support portion 132, the mounting portion 131 being integrally formed with the tripping active member 121, and the support portion 132 being spaced apart from the second surface 1212 of the tripping active member 121.

[0057] The inner wall of the housing 61 is provided with a first stop 611 and a second stop 612. The support part 132 abuts against the first stop 611, and the release active member 121 abuts against the second stop 612.

[0058] For example, the mounting part 131 and the support part 132 are arranged in an L-shaped structure, but they can also be arranged in a C-shaped, S-shaped or other structural structures.

[0059] After the mounting part 131 and the tripping active member 121 are installed, the support part 132 can be suspended just above the tripping active member 121, that is, a sufficiently large gap is formed between it and the second surface 1212, so that after the tripping active member 121 is driven to rotate by the expanding airflow, the support part 132 and the first stop part 611 can be abutted and normally compressed and deformed to accumulate elastic potential energy, so that the elastic reset member 13 can obtain the ability to drive the tripping active member 121 to automatically rotate and reset.

[0060] The mounting part 131 and the tripping active component 121 are integrally formed, that is, the elastic reset component 13 and the tripping active component 121 are integrated into a single structure. On the one hand, this can reduce the number of parts, reduce the number of steps and time required to install the elastic reset component 13 separately, and improve the manufacturability of the circuit breaker 100. On the other hand, it can also improve the connection reliability between the elastic reset component 13 and the tripping active component 121, thereby improving the overall structural performance of the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10.

[0061] When the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 is rotated by the expanding airflow, the second stop 612 is used to abut against the tripping active member 121 to support and limit the tripping active member 121, preventing the tripping active member 121 from deforming or rotating excessively.

[0062] It is necessary to explain that the first stop portion 611 formed on the housing 61 can specifically be a stop groove structure. This allows the support portion 132 to be laterally limited by the side walls of the groove after it is inserted into the stop groove, preventing the support portion 132 from lateral displacement and instability when it is deformed under pressure, and ensuring the effective and reliable operation of the elastic reset member 13.

[0063] Furthermore, in another embodiment, at least two elastic reset members 13 are provided, arranged side by side with intervals. The simultaneous provision of two elastic reset members 13 allows for a more uniform and greater elastic force to be applied to the tripping actuator 121, which not only improves the reset rotation efficiency of the tripping actuator 121 but also ensures smooth rotation of the tripping actuator 121, preventing skewness that could affect the smoothness of rotation.

[0064] In another optional embodiment, the elastic reset member 13 includes a main body and a first abutting arm and a second abutting arm, both connected to the main body. The main body is mounted on the rotating shaft 122. The first abutting arm abuts against the tripping active member 121, and the second abutting arm abuts against the housing 61. It can be understood that the elastic reset member 13 adopts a torsion spring structure, and the elastic deformation of the first and second abutting arms provides an elastic reset force, enabling the tripping active member 121 to automatically rotate and reset.

[0065] Of course, in other alternative embodiments, the elastic reset member 13 can also have other structural forms and installation methods, as long as it can drive the tripping active member 121 to automatically rotate and reset.

[0066] Please continue reading. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Furthermore, in one embodiment of this application, the rotating shaft 122 includes a main shaft body 1221 and a rotating shaft portion 1222. The rotating shaft portion 1222 is connected to the axial end of the main shaft body 1221. The tripping active member 121 is integrally formed with the main shaft body 1221 or is installed with an interference fit. That is, the tripping active member 121 can be an integral structure with the rotating shaft 122, or it can be detachably assembled. The rotating shaft portion 1222 is rotatably inserted into the rotating shaft 122 hole of the housing 61.

[0067] That is, the main shaft 1221 can be installed and fixed as a whole with the tripping actuator 121 so that the tripping actuator 121 can rotate synchronously with the rotating shaft 122. Two rotating shaft portions 1222, which are located at opposite axial ends of the main shaft 1221, are respectively inserted into the holes of the rotating shaft 122, providing the rotational freedom required for the rotating shaft 122 and the tripping actuator 121 to rotate relative to the housing 61, ensuring that the tripping actuator 121 can respond quickly and rotate when driven by the expanding airflow.

[0068] As is easily understood, the rotating shaft 1222 is a cylinder, and the hole in the rotating shaft 122 is a circular hole. The cylinder passes through the circular hole and is fitted with the hole wall with a clearance. After installation, it can ensure smooth rotation and control the assembly clearance. This avoids the clearance being too large, which would cause the active release component 121 to rotate unstably and affect the release operation accuracy of the release lever 123 on the traction rod 41 of the operating mechanism 40.

[0069] Please continue reading. Figures 6 to 8Furthermore, based on the above embodiments, the rotating shaft 122 also includes an anti-rotation part 1223. The trip lever 123 is provided with an anti-rotation hole 1231, and the anti-rotation part 1223 is inserted into the anti-rotation hole 1231 so that the trip lever 123 can rotate synchronously with the tripping actuator 121. The anti-rotation part 1223 is assembled with the anti-rotation hole 1231, which allows the tripping lever 123 to be fixedly installed on the rotating shaft 122, thereby ensuring that the tripping actuator 121, the rotating shaft 122 and the tripping lever 123 can rotate synchronously, improving the tripping operation effect on the traction rod 41 of the operating mechanism 40.

[0070] For example, the anti-rotation part 1223 is a cylinder with a first anti-rotation plane machined on its circumferential surface, and the corresponding anti-rotation hole 1231 is a circular hole with a second anti-rotation plane machined on its hole wall. After the anti-rotation part 1223 is inserted into the anti-rotation hole 1231, the relative rotational freedom of the rotating shaft 122 and the trip lever 123 can be restricted by the engagement of the first anti-rotation plane and the second anti-rotation plane, so as to ensure that the two are installed and fixed and can rotate synchronously.

[0071] Optionally, more than one first anti-rotation plane and one second anti-rotation plane can be provided. When two or more are provided, they are installed using a one-to-one snap-fit ​​method. This enhances the secure installation of the rotating shaft 122 and the trip lever 123, effectively preventing relative rotation between the two.

[0072] Please continue reading. Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 Considering that there is usually a certain gap between the trip lever 123 and the traction rod 41 of the operating mechanism 40, and that the trip lever 123 should not be made too large to avoid disrupting the force-saving lever structure constructed by the trip lever 123, the rotating shaft 122 and the tripping active member 121, the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 further includes a tripping top rod 14 based on any of the above embodiments. The tripping top rod 14 is rotatably disposed in the housing 61. One end of the tripping top rod 14 abuts against the trip lever 123, and the other end of the tripping top rod 14 abuts against the traction rod 41 of the operating mechanism 40.

[0073] Therefore, by adding a release push rod 14 between the release lever 123 and the traction rod 41, the release lever 123 can first rotate the release push rod 14, and then the traction rod 41 can be moved by the release push rod 123 to perform the release operation, while ensuring that the size of the release lever 123 is small.

[0074] In an optional embodiment, the tripping rod 14 includes a first rod segment 141 and a second rod segment 142 connected by a bend. The end of the first rod segment 141 away from the second rod segment 142 abuts against the tripping lever 123, and the end of the second rod segment 142 away from the first rod segment 141 abuts against the traction rod 41 of the operating mechanism 40. The convex side of the tripping rod 14 is oriented towards the contact pair 20. Compared to a straight rod, the bend structure design allows for effective actuation of the traction rod 41 of the operating mechanism 40 while maintaining a compact layout, thus improving the tripping efficiency of the traction rod 41.

[0075] Furthermore, based on the above embodiments, the first rod segment 141 abuts against the arcuate convex surface of the trip lever 123; and / or, the second rod segment 142 abuts against the arcuate convex surface of the contact portion 411 of the traction rod 41. This arcuate convex surface abutment method avoids interference with the relative rotation of the first rod segment 141 and the trip lever 123, and the second rod segment 142 and the contact portion 411 of the traction rod 41, ensuring the abutment effect. It also makes it easier for the trip lever 123 to drive the trip push rod 14 and the trip push rod 14 to drive the contact portion 411, improving the tripping operation efficiency of the traction rod 41, more efficiently cutting off faulty circuits, and ensuring the working performance and reliability of the circuit breaker 100.

[0076] Furthermore, based on the above embodiments, both the trip lever 123 and the trip top rod 14 are configured in pairs and installed in a one-to-one correspondence. The trip top rod 14 abuts against the contact portion 411 of the corresponding traction rod 41, and a reinforcing rod 17 connects the two trip top rods 14. That is, by constructing two sets of trip levers 123, trip top rods 14, and contact portions 411, the force of the tripping is more balanced, which helps to improve the reliability and effectiveness of the tripping operation of the traction rod 41 of the operating mechanism 40. The use of the reinforcing rod 17 to connect and fix the two trip top rods 14 not only ensures the consistency and synchronization of the rotation of the two trip top rods 14, but also significantly improves the overall structural strength and mechanical performance of the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10.

[0077] Optionally, the reinforcing rod 17 and the release rod 14 can be integrally formed or detachably assembled. The specific choice can be made flexibly according to actual needs, and no specific limitation is made here.

[0078] Please continue reading. Figures 2 to 5Furthermore, based on any of the above embodiments, the single-pole module 60 also includes an arc-extinguishing chamber 30, which is disposed within the housing 61. The pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 is arranged above the arc-extinguishing chamber 30, offset from the exhaust side of the arc-extinguishing chamber 30. When the stationary contact 21 and the moving contact 22 break a short circuit, not only will high-temperature expanding gas be generated, but an electric arc 50 will also be generated. The arc-extinguishing chamber 30 is used to extinguish the electric arc 50 to prevent the electric arc 50 from damaging the circuit breaker 100. Arranging the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 above the arc-extinguishing chamber 30, offset from the exhaust side of the arc-extinguishing chamber 30, can avoid obstructing the exhaust channel 31 of the arc-extinguishing chamber 30, ensuring that the expanding gas is discharged from the arc-extinguishing chamber 30 from the circuit breaker 100 in a timely and effective manner, thus ensuring the arc-extinguishing effect. Furthermore, the unobstructed exhaust passage 31 of the arc-extinguishing chamber 30 can reduce the pressure buildup inside the device, reduce the risk of damage to the circuit breaker 100, and increase the service life of the circuit breaker 100.

[0079] Specifically, multiple arc-extinguishing grids are arranged side-by-side at intervals within the arc-extinguishing chamber 30. After the electric arc 50 enters the arc-extinguishing chamber 30, it can be divided into multiple short arc segments by the multiple arc-extinguishing grids, which can effectively increase the voltage of the electric arc 50 and accelerate the cooling of the electric arc 50, thereby achieving rapid circuit interruption under high current conditions such as short circuits.

[0080] Preferably, in one embodiment of this application, the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 is arranged close to the stationary contact of the contact pair 20, so that the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 can more accurately sense the gas energy changes generated by the electric arc 50. In the event of a fault such as a short circuit, the gas energy generated by the electric arc 50 will be quickly transferred to the tripping actuator 121, thereby triggering the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 to operate in a timely manner.

[0081] In another embodiment, the unipolar module 60 further includes an arc-initiating foot 70, which is connected to the stationary contact 21 of the contact pair 20 and is positioned above the arc-extinguishing chamber 30. The arc-initiating foot 70 guides the arc 50 to move quickly and stably towards the arc-extinguishing chamber 30, preventing the arc 50 from remaining on the surface of the stationary contact 21 and burning it. Simultaneously, it works in conjunction with magnetic blowing force to deliver the arc 50 into the arc-extinguishing chamber 30, improving arc-extinguishing efficiency.

[0082] Please continue reading. Figures 2 to 5 ,as well as Figure 7Furthermore, based on any of the above embodiments, the circuit breaker 100 also includes a metal component 15, which is mounted on the tripping actuator 121. The tripping actuator 121 is made of a gas-generating material, enabling it to generate gas when subjected to the arc 50 of the short circuit interrupted by the contact pair 20. The metal component 15 can rotate relative to the tripping actuator 121 when subjected to the gas. When the contact pair 20 interrupts the short circuit, generating expanding gas and the arc 50, in addition to the tripping actuator 121 rotating under the drive of the expanding gas flow, the tripping actuator 121 also generates and releases gas due to the high temperature of the arc 50. The gas drives the metal component 15 to rotate. The force of the rotated metal component 15 can change the magnetic blow direction, allowing the arc 50 to move more effectively towards the arc-extinguishing chamber 30, resulting in a faster arc extinguishing speed. This better protects the contact system and other components of the circuit breaker 100, extending the service life of the circuit breaker 100. Furthermore, the tripping active component 121 can rotate more quickly under the propulsion of its own generated airflow, which helps the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 to complete the tripping more quickly.

[0083] For example, the metal part 15 can be rotatably mounted in the mounting slot of the tripping active part 121 via a pivot.

[0084] Furthermore, the circuit breaker 100 also includes a magnetically conductive component 16, which is mounted on the stationary contact 21 and arranged in conjunction with the metal component 15 and the arc-extinguishing chamber 30. When current flows through the arc 50, a magnetic field is formed around the magnetically conductive component 16. According to the left-hand rule, this magnetic field exerts a thrust on the arc 50, causing it to detach from the contact area and be quickly pulled into the arc-extinguishing chamber 30. There, the arc is divided into multiple short arc segments by the arc-extinguishing grid, effectively increasing the arc voltage and accelerating the cooling of the arc 50, thereby achieving rapid circuit disconnection under high-current conditions such as short circuits.

[0085] The metal part 15 has the function of enhancing magnetic conductivity, which can further enhance the magnetic field strength, making it easier for the electric arc 50 to move into the arc-extinguishing chamber 30 under the action of the magnetic field.

[0086] Optionally, the metal part 15 can be detachably mounted on the surface or inside the tripping actuator 121, but this would increase the number of installation steps and reduce the manufacturing efficiency and structural performance of the circuit breaker 100. Therefore, in one embodiment, the metal part 15 is embedded inside the tripping actuator 121, so as to be integrally formed with the tripping actuator 121. In this way, the process of installing the metal part 15 separately can be saved, while improving the bonding firmness and connection strength between the metal part 15 and the tripping actuator 121.

[0087] For example, the metal part 15 can be a magnetizable metal material such as carbon steel or iron. It has a simple structure, is easy to obtain, and will not cause the thickness of the tripping active part 121 to increase too much after being embedded inside the tripping active part 121. This is conducive to the miniaturization design of the pneumatic tripping mechanism 10 and reduces the space occupied during installation.

[0088] Optionally, the metal part 15 can be made of the same material as the magnetically conductive part 16, or it can be made of a different material. The choice can be made flexibly according to the actual needs.

[0089] Furthermore, by rationally arranging the position and shape of the magnetically conductive component 16, the magnetic field distribution becomes more uniform and reasonable, reducing magnetic field leakage and energy loss. When the electric arc 50 is generated, the uniform magnetic field can more effectively exert a thrust on the electric arc 50, making the movement of the electric arc 50 more stable and rapid, further improving the efficiency of magnetic blowout arc extinguishing. For example, in this application, the magnetically conductive component 16 is arranged obliquely above the arc-extinguishing chamber 30, so as to be obliquely opposite to the air inlet side of the arc-extinguishing chamber 30.

[0090] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0091] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A pneumatic tripping mechanism for installation with a single-pole module, characterized in that, The pneumatic tripping mechanism includes: a tripping actuator, a rotating shaft, and a tripping lever. The tripping actuator is connected to the rotating shaft, which is mounted on the housing of the single-pole module, such that the tripping actuator is configured to rotate when driven by the expanding airflow generated by the short circuit of the contact pair. The tripping lever is connected to the rotating shaft, and the tripping lever, the rotating shaft, and the tripping actuator cooperate to form a force-saving lever structure. The tripping lever is used to install and cooperate with the traction rod of the operating mechanism.

2. The pneumatic tripping mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tripping actuator has a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other. The first surface is disposed toward the contact pair, and the second surface is disposed away from the contact pair. When the first surface is driven by an expanding airflow, the tripping actuator can rotate in a direction away from the contact pair. The tripping lever is disposed at an angle to the second surface.

3. The pneumatic tripping mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pneumatic tripping mechanism further includes an elastic reset member, one end of which is disposed on the tripping active member, and the other end of which abuts against the housing; Alternatively, the elastic reset member includes a main body and a first abutting arm and a second abutting arm, both connected to the main body. The main body is mounted on the rotating shaft, the first abutting arm abuts against the release actuator, and the second abutting arm abuts against the housing.

4. The pneumatic tripping mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, The elastic reset member includes a bent mounting part and a support part, the mounting part is integrally formed with the tripping active member, and the support part is spaced apart from the second surface of the tripping active member; The inner shell wall of the housing is provided with a first stop and a second stop, the support part abuts against the first stop, and the release active member abuts against the second stop.

5. The pneumatic release mechanism according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, At least two elastic reset elements are provided, and the at least two elastic reset elements are arranged side by side with intervals.

6. The pneumatic tripping mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating shaft includes a main shaft body and a rotating shaft part. The rotating shaft part is connected to the axial end of the main shaft body. The tripping active component is integrally formed with the main shaft body or installed with an interference fit. The rotating shaft part is rotatably inserted into the rotating shaft hole of the housing.

7. The pneumatic tripping mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that, The rotating shaft also includes an anti-rotation part, and the trip lever is provided with an anti-rotation hole. The anti-rotation part is inserted into the anti-rotation hole so that the trip lever can rotate synchronously with the tripping active member.

8. The pneumatic tripping mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pneumatic release mechanism further includes a release rod, which is rotatably mounted on the housing. One end of the release rod abuts against the release lever, and the other end of the release rod abuts against the traction rod of the operating mechanism.

9. The pneumatic tripping mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that, The tripping rod includes a first rod segment and a second rod segment connected by bending. The end of the first rod segment away from the second rod segment abuts against the tripping lever, and the end of the second rod segment away from the first rod segment abuts against the traction rod of the operating mechanism. The convex side of the tripping rod is arranged facing the contact pair.

10. The pneumatic tripping mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that, The trip lever and the trip top lever are both provided in pairs and are installed in a one-to-one correspondence. The contact portion of the trip top lever abuts against the corresponding traction rod, and a reinforcing rod connects the two trip top levers.

11. The pneumatic tripping mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The single-pole module also includes an arc-extinguishing chamber disposed within the housing, and the pneumatic tripping mechanism is arranged above the arc-extinguishing chamber to be offset from the exhaust side of the arc-extinguishing chamber.

12. The pneumatic tripping mechanism according to claim 11, characterized in that, The pneumatic tripping mechanism is arranged near the stationary contact of the contact pair.

13. The pneumatic tripping mechanism according to claim 11, characterized in that, The single-pole module also includes an arc-initiating foot, which is connected to the stationary contact of the contact pair and is located above the arc-extinguishing chamber.

14. The pneumatic tripping mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pneumatic tripping mechanism also includes a metal component mounted on the tripping actuator. The tripping actuator is made of a gas-generating material, which enables the tripping actuator to generate gas when subjected to the arc action of the contact pair breaking the short circuit. When the metal component is subjected to the gas, it can rotate relative to the tripping actuator.

15. A circuit breaker, characterized in that, Includes the pneumatic tripping mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 14.

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