Switching device and operating device with a switching device

Abstract

A switching device (100) is proposed, the switching device having at least one fixed contact (2, 3), a movable contact (4), and a switch state recognition device (18), wherein the switch state recognition device (18) has a permanent magnet (17), a magnetic switch (19), and a passive electronic unit (20) connected to the magnetic switch (19), the movable contact (4) and the permanent magnet (17) can move together, the magnetic switch (19) is a Hall switch with a Hall sensor (190), and the passive electronic unit (20) is formed by one or more passive electrical components. An operating device (1000) having the switching device (100) is also proposed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] A switching device and an operating device having the switching device are proposed. Background Technology

[0002] The switching device is particularly configured as a remotely controlled switch that operates via conductive current, is electromagnetically activated, and can switch the load circuit. The switching device can be activated via a control circuit and can switch the load circuit. In particular, the switching device can be configured as a relay or contactor, especially a power contactor. Particularly preferred is that the switching device can be configured as a pneumatically charged power contactor.

[0003] One possible application of such switching devices, particularly power contactors, is the disconnection and separation of battery circuits, for example, in motor vehicles, such as electrically or partially electrically operated motor vehicles. These motor vehicles can be, for example, battery-powered vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). Here, the positive and negative contacts of the battery are typically separated by means of a power contactor. This separation occurs during normal operation, such as when the vehicle is stationary, and also in the event of disturbances, such as accidents. The primary task of the power contactor is to switch the vehicle without voltage and to interrupt the flow of current. In its function as a safety component, the contactor is typically used in conjunction with a fuse between the battery, such as a lithium-ion battery, and the electric motor, and must be able to separate the source from the load in the event of a corresponding fault. Currently, such systems operate, for example, at a voltage of 450V.

[0004] For functional control, it is generally desirable to identify the position of movable switch contacts, thereby requiring switch state identification. Position identification using reed switches is described in publication WO 2017 / 129 823 A1. Position identification using electronic circuits with Hall sensors and additional active semiconductor components is described in publications WO 2020 / 043 515 A1 and WO 2022 / 167 463 A1, which results in relatively high current consumption. Furthermore, known solutions lack reverse polarity protection, necessitating the placement of warning labels at the wiring locations indicating strict adherence to the required wiring configuration to mitigate the risk of reverse polarity in the wiring. Summary of the Invention

[0005] At least one objective of certain embodiments is to provide a switching device, particularly preferably a switching device having a switching state recognition device. At least one objective of other embodiments is to provide an operating device having a switching device.

[0006] The objective is achieved by the subject matter according to the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments and improvements of the subject matter are set forth in the dependent claims and further apparent from the following description and drawings.

[0007] According to at least one embodiment, a switching device has at least one fixed contact and at least one movable contact. The at least one fixed contact and at least one movable contact are configured to connect and disconnect a load circuit that can be connected to the switching device. The movable contact can move correspondingly within the switching device. In particular, the movable contact can move between a non-conducting state and a conducting state of the switching device, such that in the non-conducting state, the movable contact is spaced apart from at least one fixed contact for electrical isolation, and in the conducting state, it has mechanical contact with at least one fixed contact for current connection to at least one fixed contact, wherein the non-conducting state is also referred to as an inactive or off state, and the conducting state is also referred to as an active or on state. The switching device having at least one fixed contact particularly preferably also means that the switching device has at least two fixed contacts, which are disposed separately from each other within the switching device, and which can be electrically connected or electrically disconnected from each other via the movable contact in the described manner depending on the state of the movable contact. The description relating to at least one fixed contact also applies to multiple, and especially all, fixed contacts present in the switching device.

[0008] According to another embodiment, the switching device has a housing, in which movable contacts and at least one fixed contact are disposed. The movable contacts may be entirely disposed within the housing. The fixed contacts being disposed within the housing specifically means that the contact area of ​​the fixed contacts, which mechanically contact the movable contacts in the ON state, is located within the housing. For connecting leads of a circuit to be switched by the switching device, the fixed contacts disposed within the housing can be electrically contacted from the outside, i.e., from outside the housing. Therefore, the fixed contacts disposed within the housing may partially extend out of the housing and have connection feasibility for leads outside the housing.

[0009] According to another embodiment, the switching device has a switching chamber, in which a movable contact and at least one fixed contact are disposed. The switching chamber may particularly be housed within a housing. The movable contact may particularly preferably be entirely disposed within the switching chamber. The fixed contact being disposed within the switching chamber may specifically mean that at least one contact area of ​​the fixed contact, which mechanically contacts the movable contact in the ON state, is disposed within the switching chamber. For connecting leads of a circuit to be switched by the switching device, the fixed contact disposed within the switching chamber can be electrically contacted from the outside, i.e., from outside the switching chamber. Therefore, the fixed contact disposed within the switching chamber may partially extend out of the switching chamber and have connection feasibility for leads outside the switching chamber.

[0010] According to another embodiment, the switching device has a magnetic armature by means of which a movable contact can move. For this purpose, the magnetic armature can have a shaft connected at one end to the movable contact, such that the movable contact can move by means of the shaft, i.e., move via the shaft when the shaft moves. The shaft can extend into the switching chamber through an opening. Specifically, the switching chamber can have a bottom with an opening through which the shaft extends. The magnetic armature can be moved via a magnetic circuit to realize the previously described switching process. For this purpose, the magnetic circuit can have a yoke with an opening through which the shaft of the magnetic armature extends. Furthermore, the magnetic armature can have a magnetic core, which can be fastened to the end of the shaft opposite the movable contact and is part of the magnetic circuit. A magnetic field can be generated in the magnetic circuit by a coil that can be connected to a control circuit, thereby causing the magnetic armature to move.

[0011] According to another embodiment, the contacts are disposed in a gaseous atmosphere. This can specifically mean that the movable contacts are entirely disposed in the gaseous atmosphere, and furthermore, at least a portion of at least one fixed contact, such as the contact area of ​​at least one fixed contact, is disposed in the gaseous atmosphere. For this purpose, the switching device can have an airtight region in which the gaseous atmosphere is tightly sealed relative to the environment, and the described components can be disposed in the airtight region. The airtight region can be formed by a portion of the housing and / or by additional walls and / or by components within the housing. For example, the airtight region can be formed by a combination of a portion of the switch chamber wall and the yoke with additional wall portions, such as having aluminum or stainless steel or being made therefrom. In particular, the switch chamber can be disposed in the airtight region of the switching device. Furthermore, the magnetic armature can also be entirely disposed in the airtight region. Correspondingly, the switching device can be particularly preferably a gas-filled switching device, such as a gas-filled contactor. The gaseous atmosphere can particularly facilitate the extinguishing of arcs that may occur between the contacts during the switching process. The gas in the gaseous atmosphere can preferably have a share of at least 50% H2. In addition to hydrogen, the gas may be an inert gas, particularly preferably N2 and / or one or more rare gases. Furthermore, at least a portion of the gas, i.e., the gas atmosphere, may be located within the switching chamber.

[0012] According to another embodiment, the switching device includes a switch state recognition device. The switch state recognition device is preferably configured to output a signal by which the switch state of the switching device can be inferred, i.e., in particular, the position of the movable contact can be inferred. Specifically, the switch state recognition device includes a magnetic switch, i.e., a switch that can switch back and forth between different states by the action of an external magnetic field. The magnetic switch can particularly have a first state and a second state, and can switch between the first state and the second state by the action of an external magnetic field. Particularly preferably, the magnetic switch can have exactly two states. Correspondingly, during operation, the magnetic switch can be in a state preferably selected from the first state and the second state according to the magnetic field.

[0013] In particular, the magnetic switch can be an active electronic device, such as an active semiconductor device. Here and below, an active electronic device is understood to be one that requires an operating voltage at its input terminal to function, such that the active electronic device cannot operate if the operating voltage at the input terminal is incorrect or missing. Therefore, the magnetic switch can be connected to an external voltage supply device. The voltage supply device can preferably provide a voltage greater than or equal to 3V and less than or equal to 24V. Therefore, the switching operation of the magnetic switch previously and described below always implies that the magnetic switch is connected to an operating voltage.

[0014] In particular, the magnetic switch is a Hall switch. Correspondingly, the terms magnetic switch and Hall switch can be used synonymously below. A magnetic switch can, for example, have a circuit or be formed therefrom, that has a Hall sensor with a sensitive surface. Therefore, the switch state identification device has a Hall sensor. The Hall sensor can be configured and connected in the circuit of the magnetic switch such that when the magnetic field lines pass through the sensitive surface of the Hall sensor at the location of the magnetic switch, a Hall voltage proportional to the perpendicular component of the magnetic field lines is generated. The Hall voltage can be compared with a reference voltage by means of a comparator in the circuit. When the Hall voltage and the corresponding magnetic field are below a predetermined threshold, the signal output of the circuit, and thus the magnetic switch, can remain in a first state. In particular, for this purpose, an amplifier stage can be present, for example, having a transistor, wherein the amplifier stage can be part of a comparator or can be connected downstream of the comparator. Therefore, when the magnetic field is less than the threshold magnetic field, the magnetic switch is in the first state. When the Hall voltage and the corresponding magnetic field exceed the threshold, the signal output can switch to a second state. Correspondingly, when the magnetic field is greater than the threshold magnetic field, the magnet switch is in the second state.

[0015] Particularly preferably, the magnetic switch has a reverse polarity protection device. For example, a reverse polarity protection device with a diode can be integrated into the magnetic switch and connected to a voltage input terminal for connection to a voltage source that provides the operating voltage for operating the Hall switch. The reverse polarity protection device ensures that, for example, if a user accidentally connects the switch status identification device incorrectly to an external voltage source, such that the connection terminals with the voltage input terminal and ground terminal of the magnetic switch are swapped, the magnetic switch will not be damaged. In addition to the reverse polarity protection device, the Hall switch may also have, for example, an ESD protection device (ESD: "electrostatic discharge").

[0016] The magnetic field described in conjunction with the magnet switch, even if not explicitly described, can always be represented as the magnetic field acting at the location of the magnet switch, and especially at the location of the Hall sensor within the magnet switch. Furthermore, regarding the operation of the magnet switch, the term "magnetic field" or "threshold magnetic field" may be used previously and hereinafter to specifically refer to the component of the field perpendicular to the sensitive surface of the magnet switch that passes through the sensitive surface.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the switching device, and particularly the switching state recognition device, has a permanent magnet. The permanent magnet can particularly preferably move within the switching device together with a movable contact. In other words, the movable contact and the permanent magnet can move synchronously. Particularly preferably, the permanent magnet is fastened to a magnetic armature. Therefore, the permanent magnet can, particularly preferably, be disposed within an airtight region together with the contacts and magnetic armature of the switching device. In particular, the permanent magnet can be disposed at the end of the magnetic armature opposite to the movable contact. For example, the permanent magnet can be fastened to a magnetic core and / or the shaft of the magnetic armature. The permanent magnet can be a bar magnet, a disc magnet, or a ring magnet. Particularly preferably, the permanent magnet can be a ring magnet arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis of the magnetic armature.

[0018] By fastening a permanent magnet to a magnetic armature, the permanent magnet can move together with the switching motion of the magnetic armature during the switching of the switching device. The magnetic switch and the permanent magnet can be arranged relative to each other such that the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet is weaker at the location of the magnetic switch in the on state of the switching device than in the off state. Along the direction of movement of the magnetic armature, the magnetic switch can, for example, be located below the permanent magnet, thus situated in the region of the end of the magnetic armature where the permanent magnet is fixed. In particular, the magnetic switch can be centrally located or slightly offset from the imaginary extension of the axis of the magnetic armature, below both the magnetic armature and the permanent magnet. In the on state of the switching device, the permanent magnet can have a larger distance from the magnetic switch than in the off state.

[0019] As previously described, the magnetic switch preferably operates in either a first state or a second state depending on the distance between the permanent magnet and the magnetic switch. The permanent magnet is particularly preferably configured such that it has a magnetic pole, for example a magnetic south pole, on the side facing the magnetic switch. The magnetic switch can be configured such that it operates in either a first state or a second state depending on the distance from the magnetic pole. Specifically, the magnetic switch and the permanent magnet can be configured such that, when the coil of the switching device is in operation, the magnetic switch also remains in the state induced by the permanent magnet, independent of the stray field induced at the location of the magnetic switch by the coil, which moves the magnetic armature, and thus the movable contact, by means of the coil. If the switching device is in an inactive state, the permanent magnet can have a smaller distance from the magnetic switch compared to the case where the switching device is in an active state. Correspondingly, purely exemplarily, when the switching device is in an inactive state, the magnetic switch can be in the first state, and when the switching device is in an active state, the magnetic switch can be in the second state.

[0020] According to another embodiment, the magnet switch generates a first signal in a first state and a second signal, different from the first signal, in a second state. The first signal and the second signal can be, for example, different impedance states at the signal output terminal.

[0021] According to another embodiment, the switching device has a passive electronic unit, to which a magnetic switch is connected. The passive electronic unit is preferably disposed together with the magnetic switch within the housing of the switching device. For example, the passive electronic unit may be fastened together with the magnetic switch to a portion of the housing and / or within the housing. For example, the magnetic switch and the passive electronic unit may be disposed and configured on a common circuit board, such as a printed circuit board, and connected to each other, which is disposed within the housing of the switching device. In particular, the passive electronic unit and the magnetic switch may be disposed outside an airtight area. This allows for simple contact between the magnetic switch and the passive electronic unit.

[0022] A passive electronic unit is formed by one or more passive electrical components. In particular, the passive electronic unit, which may also be simply referred to as an electronic unit below, does not have any active electronic devices. Correspondingly, the switch state recognition device is particularly preferably free of any active electronic devices other than the magnetic switch, such that the switch state recognition device has no active electronic devices other than the magnetic switch, and only passive electrical components other than the magnetic switch. Here and below, resistors, capacitors, coils, and diodes are particularly referred to as passive electrical components. As described above, active semiconductor devices are considered, for example, as active electronic devices. Therefore, the switch state recognition device has exactly one active semiconductor device, namely the magnetic switch. Correspondingly, the switch state recognition device does not have any other active semiconductor devices other than the magnetic switch, such as amplifiers, transistors, or integrated circuits.

[0023] Particularly preferably, the switch status identification device has three terminals, which are led out from the housing of the switch device by means of leads, such as connecting wires, so that they can be electrically contacted from the outside of the housing. The first of the three terminals can form a voltage terminal of the switch status identification device, allowing an external voltage supply device to be connected to the switch status identification device via its associated leads. The second of the three terminals can form a ground terminal of the switch status identification device. The third of the three terminals can form an output terminal of the switch status identification device, at which the output signal of the switch status identification device can be read, for example, by means of an external reading unit.

[0024] The signal output terminal of the magnetic switch can preferably be the output terminal of the switch state identification device, or it can be directly connected to the output terminal of the switch state identification device without any additional intermediate electronic components or electrical devices. In other words, the output signal provided by the magnetic switch at its signal output terminal can be directly the output signal of the switch state identification device, such that the switch state identification device preferably does not have any additional electronic components or electrical devices between the signal output terminal of the magnetic switch and an external reading electronic device that can be connected to the output terminal of the switch state identification device. Because the magnetic switch preferably outputs a first signal or a second signal according to its state as previously described, the switching state of the switch device can be inferred by measuring at the signal output terminal of the magnetic switch, and thus at the output terminal of the switch state identification device.

[0025] According to another embodiment, the electronic unit has a series resistor connected in series with a magnetic switch. Specifically, the series resistor can be connected to the voltage input terminal of the magnetic switch. In other words, the series resistor can have a first terminal that can be connected to an external voltage source and a second terminal that is directly connected to the voltage input terminal of the magnetic switch. The first terminal of the series resistor can be, in particular, the voltage terminal of a switch state recognition device, or directly, i.e., without any other intermediate electronic or electrical components, connected to the voltage terminal of the switch state recognition device. The series resistor can, for example, form the threshold protection of a Hall sensor.

[0026] According to another embodiment, the electronic unit has a first capacitor connected in parallel with a magnetic switch. Specifically, the first capacitor can be connected in parallel with the magnetic switch between the voltage terminal and ground terminal of the switch state identification device, and particularly the electronic unit. Particularly preferably, the first capacitor is connected between a series resistor and the magnetic switch. This can specifically mean that the first capacitor has a first terminal connected to the voltage input terminal of the magnetic switch and a second terminal connected to the ground terminal of the magnetic switch. The first terminal of the first capacitor can be connected, in particular, to the second terminal of the series resistor and the voltage input terminal of the magnetic switch. Viewed from the voltage terminal of the switch state identification device, the first capacitor is therefore preferably arranged in parallel with the magnetic switch downstream of the series resistor. The first capacitor can preferably be configured and positioned to protect the magnetic switch, i.e., particularly for buffering and stabilizing against fluctuations.

[0027] According to another embodiment, the electronic unit has a second capacitor connected to ground at the signal output terminal of the magnetic switch. This specifically means that the second capacitor has a first terminal connected to the signal output terminal of the magnetic switch and a second terminal connected to the ground terminal of the switch status identification device. Particularly preferably, the second capacitor is connected between the magnetic switch and the output terminal of the switch status identification device. Therefore, the second capacitor can be directly connected to the output terminal of the switch status identification device. The second capacitor can preferably be configured and positioned to protect the magnetic switch and to stabilize it during voltage fluctuations.

[0028] According to another embodiment, the operating device includes a switching device with a switch state recognition device, a pull-up resistor, and a reading electronics device connected to the output terminal of the switch state recognition device. Specifically, the reading electronics device can be directly connected to the output terminal of the switch state recognition device and is configured to further process the signal provided by the switch state recognition device at the output terminal. The pull-up resistor is particularly preferably connected between the voltage terminal and the output terminal of the switch state recognition device. The pull-up resistor in the operating device can be a separate device from the switching device and the reading electronics device. Specifically, the pull-up resistor can be located externally to the switching device. Alternatively, the pull-up resistor can also be part of the reading electronics device. Furthermore, it is also possible that the pull-up resistor is part of an electronic unit, and thus part of the switching device. The size of the pull-up resistor can be specifically determined such that a current less than or equal to the maximum output current of the magnetic switch can be continuously flowing through it.

[0029] Particularly preferably, the switch state identification device may have exactly one resistor in the form of a series resistor as described above and exactly two capacitors in the form of a first capacitor and a second capacitor as described above. Alternatively, the switch state identification device may also have exactly two resistors if the previously described pull-up resistor is part of the switch state identification device.

[0030] In the switching devices described herein, it is feasible to identify the state of the switching contacts of the switching device, i.e., open or closed, at the output signal of the magnetic switch, and thus at the output signal of the switch state identification device, for example, by means of a reading electronic device. Thus, for example, erroneous switching operations, such as contactor sticking, can be clearly identified. Because the detection of the state of the switching device is performed electronically, the detection method is resistant to vibration and other mechanical actions on the switching device, unlike the use of mechanical switches. By using a Hall switch instead of a simple Hall sensor, the influence of magnetic interference fields can be significantly reduced. The switch state identification device described herein is significantly more cost-effective than known devices for identifying switch states that incorporate Hall switches, because it has only a few other components, which are, in addition, passive components. Since only active semiconductor devices in the form of magnetic switches are used, current consumption can also be significantly lower compared to known solutions. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Other advantages, advantageous implementation methods and improvements can be derived from the embodiments described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic diagram of one embodiment of a switching device is shown.

[0033] Figure 3 and Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a switch state identification device and an operating device according to other embodiments is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0034] In the embodiments and figures, identical, similar, or functionally equivalent elements may be provided with the same reference numerals. The elements shown and their relative sizes should not be considered to be proportional; rather, individual elements, such as layers, components, devices, and regions, may be exaggerated for better visibility and / or for better understanding.

[0035] exist Figure 1 The diagram shows a two-dimensional cross-sectional view of a switching device 100, which may be used for switching high current and / or high voltage, and may be a relay or contactor, particularly a power contactor. The geometry shown is merely exemplary and should not be construed as limiting, and may be alternatively configured.

[0036] The switching device 100 has two fixed contacts 2 and 3 and one movable contact 4 within a housing 1. The movable contact 4 is configured as a contact plate. The fixed contacts 2 and 3 together with the movable contact 4 form the switching contacts. Alternative numbers of fixed and / or movable contacts may be feasible, as shown. The housing 1 primarily serves as a contact protection device for components housed within it and is made of or constructed of plastic, such as PBT or glass fiber-filled PBT. The contacts 2, 3, and 4 may, for example, be made of Cu, Cu alloys, one or more high-melting-point metals such as W, Ni, and / or Cr, or a mixture of copper and at least one other metal such as W, Ni, and / or Cr, or are made of these materials.

[0037] exist Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a switching device 100 in a stationary state, in which movable contact 4 is spaced apart from fixed contacts 2 and 3, such that contacts 2, 3, and 4 are electrically isolated from each other. The illustrated embodiment of the switch contacts, and especially their geometry, is purely exemplary and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the switch contacts may be configured differently. For example, it may be feasible to have only one switch contact fixedly configured.

[0038] The switching device 100 has a movable magnetic armature 5 that substantially performs switching motion. The magnetic armature 5 is part of a magnetic circuit and has a magnetic core 6, which is made of, for example, a ferromagnetic material, such as pure iron or a lightly doped iron alloy, or is composed of the same. Furthermore, the magnetic armature 5 has a shaft 7 that passes through the magnetic core 6 and is fixedly connected to the magnetic core 6 at one end of the shaft. At another end of the shaft opposite the magnetic core 6, the magnetic armature 5 has a movable contact 4, which is also connected to the shaft 7. The shaft 7 may preferably be made of stainless steel or be made of stainless steel.

[0039] The magnetic core 6 is surrounded by a coil 8. The magnetic core 6 and coil 8 are positioned below a yoke 9, which is located between a switch chamber 11 with switch contacts and the coil 8, and a shaft 7 extends into the switch chamber 11 through the yoke. The yoke 9 may preferably be made of pure iron or a lightly doped iron alloy, or be constructed thereof. Current flowing through the coil 8, which can be externally controlled by a control circuit, generates the magnetic core 6, thereby causing the entire magnetic armature 5 to move axially until the movable contact 4 contacts the fixed contacts 2 and 3. In the illustrated diagram, the magnetic armature 5 moves upward for this purpose. Therefore, the magnetic armature 5 moves from a first position corresponding to the illustrated stationary state and simultaneously to a separated, i.e., non-conductive, thus off state, to a second position corresponding to an activated, i.e., conductive, thus on state. In the activated state, contacts 2, 3, and 4 are electrically connected to each other. In another embodiment, the magnetic armature 5 may alternatively also perform a rotational movement. The magnetic armature 5 may be configured as an attraction-type armature or a snap-on type armature. If the current flow in coil 8 is interrupted, the magnetic armature 5 moves back to the first position by one or more springs 10. Therefore, in the diagram shown, the magnetic armature 5 moves downwards again. The switching device 100 then returns to a stationary state, in which contacts 2, 3, and 4 are open.

[0040] When contacts 2, 3, and 4 are disconnected, an electric arc may be generated, which could damage the contact surfaces. This could lead to a risk that contacts 2, 3, and 4 may become "stuck" to each other due to welding caused by the arc and no longer separate. Consequently, although the current in coil 8 has been turned off, and the load circuit must be disconnected, the switching device 100 remains in the ON state. To prevent the generation of such an arc or to at least support the extinguishing of any arc that may occur, contacts 2, 3, and 4 are disposed in a gas atmosphere, making the switching device 100 a gas-filled relay or gas-filled contactor. For this purpose, contacts 2, 3, and 4 are disposed within a gas-tight region 16 formed by a tightly sealed portion within a switching chamber 11 formed by the switching chamber wall 12 and the switching chamber bottom 13. The gas-tight region 16 completely surrounds the magnetic armature 5 and contacts 2, 3, and 4, except for the portion of contacts 2 and 3 that is fixed for external connection. The gas-tight region 16, and thus the switching chamber 11, is filled with gas 14. The airtight region 16 is essentially formed by the switching chamber 11, the yoke 9, and the additional wall portion. The gas 14, which can be filled into the airtight region 16 within the manufacturing scope of the switching device 100 via the gas filling pipe 15, is particularly preferably hydrogen-containing, for example, having 50% or more H2 in an inert gas, or even 100% H2, because hydrogen-containing gas can promote arc extinguishing. Furthermore, a so-called blasmagnet, i.e., a permanent magnet, can be present inside or outside the switching chamber 11, which can cause the arc path to lengthen, thereby improving arc extinguishing.

[0041] The switch chamber wall 12 and / or switch chamber bottom 13 may preferably be at least partially or completely made of, or composed of, metal oxide ceramics, such as Al2O3, or plastics. Those with sufficient temperature resistance are particularly suitable as plastics. For example, as a plastic, the switch chamber may be made of polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyethylene (PE), and / or glass-filled polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). Furthermore, the switch chamber wall 12 and / or switch chamber bottom 13 may also be at least partially made of polyoxymethylene (POM), particularly having a structural (CH2O) structure. n Polyoxymethylene.

[0042] To obtain information about the actual position of the movable contact 4, and thus, for example, about possible contactor adhesion, the switching device 100 has a switch state recognition device 18. Figure 1 For overview purposes, only the permanent magnet 17 is shown in the switch state identification device. The other components of the switch state identification device 18 are combined... Figure 2 and Figure 3 Description. In Figure 2 Basically only shows Figure 1 The components and parts forming the airtight area 16 of the switchgear 100, and the switch status recognition device 18. For example, in Figure 2 As indicated in the document, the switch state recognition device 18 of the switch device 100, as a component other than the permanent magnet 17, includes a magnetic switch 19 and a passive electronic unit 20, hereinafter referred to as the electronic unit 20. Figure 3 The switch status identification device 18 is shown, with the permanent magnet 17 only shown. The following description also relates to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 .

[0043] The permanent magnet 17 is disposed together with the contacts 2, 3, 4 and the magnetic armature 5 in the airtight region 16, and is fastened thereto, especially at the end of the magnetic armature 5 opposite to the movable contact 4. Thus, the permanent magnet 17 can move together with the movable contact 4 via the magnetic armature 5.

[0044] As in Figure 2 As shown, the permanent magnet 17 can be configured as a ring magnet and fastened to the magnetic core 6 of the magnetic armature 5. Alternatively, the permanent magnet 17 can also be configured as a bar magnet or a disc magnet, and can also be fastened to the shaft 7. Alternatively of the shown symmetrical arrangement of the permanent magnet 17 about the shaft 7, the permanent magnet 17 can also be arranged and fastened in other positions, especially when this can improve the functionality with the magnetic switch 19 described below.

[0045] The magnetic switch 19 and the electronic unit 20 are together in the switching device 100 Figure 2 The housing (not shown) is disposed outside the airtight area 16. Particularly preferably, the magnetic switch 19 and the electronic unit 20 can be connected to each other as described below, and are, for example, disposed and configured on a common circuit board, such as via... Figure 2 As indicated by the dashed lines in the diagram.

[0046] The magnetic switch 19 is a Hall switch as described in the overview section above, having a signal output terminal 191 at which a first or second signal is provided depending on the state of the magnetic switch. Specifically, the magnetic switch 19 is configured as a Hall switch with circuitry including a Hall sensor 190, which is sensitive, for example, to the magnetic south pole of a permanent magnet 17, which is correspondingly positioned with its south pole facing the magnetic switch 19. According to the operating method described in the overview section above, the magnetic switch 19 is otherwise relatively insensitive to interference fields. For operation of the magnetic switch 19, at least during use of the switching device 100, the magnetic switch is persistently connected to a voltage supply device (not shown) via a voltage input terminal 192 and grounded via a ground terminal 193.

[0047] By fastening the permanent magnet 17 to the magnetic armature 5, the permanent magnet 17 can move together with the magnetic armature 5 during the switching motion of the switching device 100, as previously described. Furthermore, under the prescribed operating mode of the switching device 100, the permanent magnet moves away from the magnetic switch 19 when the switching device 100 is switched on to its active switching state, and moves towards the magnetic switch 19 when the switching device 100 is switched off to its inactive switching state. This results in the permanent magnet 17 having a larger distance from the magnetic switch 19 in the switched-on state than in the switched-off state. Correspondingly, the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet 17 at the location of the Hall sensor 190 is weaker in the switched-on state than in the switched-off state. In particular, a first magnetic field strength is present at the location of the Hall sensor 190 in the off state of the switching device 100 caused by the permanent magnet 17, and a second magnetic field strength is present in the on state of the switching device 100, wherein, as described above in the overview section, the magnetic field strength relates in particular to the component of the applied magnetic field to which the Hall sensor 190 is sensitive.

[0048] Hall sensor 190 is configured and connected in the circuit of magnet switch 19 such that when the magnetic field lines pass through the sensitive surface of Hall sensor 190 at the location of magnet switch 19, a Hall voltage proportional to the perpendicular component of the magnetic field lines is generated. The Hall voltage can be compared with a reference voltage by means of comparator 194 in the circuit of magnet switch 19. When the Hall voltage and the corresponding magnetic field are below a predetermined threshold, the signal output terminal 191 of the circuit, and thus the magnet switch 19, can remain in a first state. In particular, for this purpose, an amplifier stage can be present, for example having transistors, wherein the amplifier stage can be part of comparator 194, as in... Figure 3 As indicated, it can be connected downstream of a comparator. Therefore, when the magnetic field is less than the threshold magnetic field, the magnetic switch 19 is in the first state. When the Hall voltage and the corresponding magnetic field exceed the threshold, the signal output terminal 191 can switch to the second state. Correspondingly, when the magnetic field is greater than the threshold magnetic field, the magnetic switch 19 is in the second state.

[0049] By way of example only, the state of the magnetic switch 19 in the off state of the switching device 100, i.e., when the permanent magnet 17 has a small distance from the magnetic switch 19, is referred to as the first state of the magnetic switch 19. The state of the magnetic switch 19 in the on state of the switching device 100, i.e., when the permanent magnet 17 has a large distance from the magnetic switch 19, is referred to as the second state. The magnetic switch 19 generates a first signal in the first state and a second signal different from the first signal in the second state.

[0050] Therefore, the state of the switching device 100 can be directly identified by detecting the state of the magnetic switch 19, for example by measuring at the signal output terminal 191 of the magnetic switch 19. In particular, it can be easily identified if the switching device 100 is still in an active state due to contactor sticking, even though the current to the coil 8 used to move the magnetic armature 5 has been turned off and the switching device 100 should be in an inactive state accordingly.

[0051] Particularly preferably, the magnetic switch 19 has a reverse polarity protection device 195. For example, the reverse polarity protection device 195, which may have a diode, can be integrated into the magnetic switch 19 and connected to the voltage input terminal 192. The reverse polarity protection device 195 ensures that the magnetic switch 19 is not damaged, for example, if a user accidentally connects the switch status identification device 18 incorrectly. In addition to the reverse polarity protection device 195, the magnetic switch 19 may also have, for example, an ESD protection device (ESD: "electrostatic discharge").

[0052] As previously mentioned, the switch state recognition device 18 also has a passive electronic unit 20 connected to the magnetic switch 19. The passive electronic unit 20 is formed only by passive electrical components. Correspondingly, the switch state recognition device 18 has no other active electronic devices besides the magnetic switch 19, such that the switch state recognition device 18 has no active electronic devices other than the magnetic switch 19, and has only passive electrical components besides the magnetic switch 19.

[0053] The electronic unit 20, and thus the switch state identification device 18, has three terminals that extend from the housing of the switch device via leads, such as connecting wires, and can be electrically contacted from outside the housing. The first of the three terminals forms an output terminal 181 of the switch state identification device 18, at which the output signal of the switch state identification device 18 can be read, for example, by means of an external reading unit. The second of the three terminals forms a voltage terminal 182 of the switch state identification device 18, allowing an external voltage supply device to be connected to the switch state identification device 18 via its associated lead. The third of the three terminals forms a ground terminal 183 of the switch state identification device 18.

[0054] The signal output terminal 191 of the magnetic switch 19 is preferably the output terminal 181 of the switch state recognition device 18, or as in Figure 3 As indicated, it is directly connected to the output terminal 181 of the switch state identification device 18 without any additional intermediate electronic or electrical components or devices. Therefore, the output signal provided by the magnetic switch 19 can be directly the output signal of the switch state identification device 18, such that the switch state identification device 18 preferably does not have any additional electronic or electrical components or devices between the signal output terminal 191 of the magnetic switch 19 and the external reading electronics that can be connected to the output terminal 181 of the switch state identification device 18.

[0055] Furthermore, the electronic unit 20 has a series resistor 200 connected in series with the magnetic switch 19. Specifically, the series resistor 200 is connected to the voltage input terminal 192 of the magnetic switch 19, such that the series resistor 200 has a first terminal that can be connected to an external voltage source and a second terminal that is directly connected to the voltage input terminal 192 of the magnetic switch 19. The first terminal of the series resistor 200 can be, in particular, the voltage terminal 182 of the switch state identification device 18, or directly, i.e., without any other intermediate electronic or electrical components, connected to the voltage terminal 182 of the switch state identification device 18. The series resistor 200 can, for example, have a resistance value of 100 ohms and can form a threshold protection for the magnetic switch 19.

[0056] Furthermore, the electronic unit 20 has a first capacitor 201 connected in parallel with the magnetic switch 19. Specifically, the first capacitor 201 is connected in parallel with the magnetic switch 19 between the voltage terminal 182 and the ground terminal 183. As shown, the first capacitor 201 is connected between the series resistor 200 and the magnetic switch 19, such that the first capacitor 201 has a first terminal connected to the voltage input terminal 192 of the magnetic switch 19 and a second terminal connected to the ground terminal 193 of the magnetic switch 19. The first terminal of the first capacitor 201 is particularly connected to the second terminal of the series resistor 200 and the voltage input terminal 192 of the magnetic switch 19. Therefore, viewed from the voltage terminal 182 of the switch state identification device 18, the first capacitor 201 is arranged in parallel with the magnetic switch 19 downstream of the series resistor 200. The first capacitor 201 may, for example, have a capacitance of 10 nF and may preferably be configured and arranged to protect the magnetic switch 19, i.e., particularly for buffering and stabilizing against fluctuations.

[0057] Furthermore, the electronic unit 20 includes a second capacitor 202 connected to ground at the signal output terminal 191 of the magnetic switch 19. The second capacitor 202 has a first terminal connected to the signal output terminal 191 of the magnetic switch 19 and a second terminal connected to the ground terminal 183 of the switch state recognition device 18. Correspondingly, the second capacitor 202 is connected between the magnetic switch 19 and the output terminal 181 of the switch state recognition device 18. Therefore, the second capacitor 202 is directly connected to the output terminal 181 of the switch state recognition device 18. The second capacitor 202 may, for example, have a capacitance of 4.7 nF and may preferably be configured to protect the magnetic switch 19 and stabilize it during voltage fluctuations.

[0058] exist Figure 4 The diagram shows an operating device 1000, which includes a switching device 100 with a previously described switch state recognition device 18, a pull-up resistor 300, and a reading electronics 400 connected to the output terminal of the switch state recognition device. For overview purposes, only the permanent magnet 17, the magnetic switch 19, and the electronic unit 20, as well as the terminals 181, 182, and 183, are labeled in the switch state recognition device 18. In particular, the reading electronics 400 is directly connected to the output terminal 181 of the switch state recognition device 18. The reading electronics 400 is configured and set up for further processing the signal provided by the switch state recognition device 18 at the output terminal 181 of the magnetic switch 19.

[0059] As indicated, the pull-up resistor 300 is particularly preferably connected between the voltage terminal 182 and the output terminal 181 of the switch state identification device 18, and can be a separate device other than the switch device 100 and the reading electronics 400. In particular, the pull-up resistor 300 can be located outside the switch device 100. Alternatively, the pull-up resistor 300 can also be part of the reading electronics 400. Furthermore, it is also possible that the pull-up resistor 300 is part of the electronic unit 20, and thus part of the switch device. The dimensions of the pull-up resistor 300 can be specifically determined such that a current less than or equal to the maximum output current of the magnetic switch can be continuously and continuously flowing through it.

[0060] In the switching device 100 described herein, the switch state identification device 18 may particularly preferably have exactly one resistor in the form of a series resistor 200 and exactly two capacitors 201, 202 in the form of a first capacitor and a second capacitor, in addition to the magnetic switch 19. Furthermore, if the previously described pull-up resistor 300 is part of the switch state identification device 18, the switch state identification device 18 may also have exactly two resistors.

[0061] The features and embodiments described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings can be combined with each other according to other embodiments, even if not all combinations are explicitly described. Furthermore, the embodiments described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings may alternatively or additionally have other features as described in the overview section.

[0062] The invention is not limited thereto by the description of the embodiments. Rather, the invention includes each new feature and any combination of features, particularly any combination of features in the claims, even if the feature or combination itself is not expressly given in the claims or embodiments.

[0063] List of reference numerals

[0064] 1. Shell

[0065] 2, 3 fixed contacts

[0066] 4 movable contacts

[0067] 5 magnetic armature

[0068] 6. Magnetic core

[0069] 7-axis

[0070] 8 coils

[0071] 9 yoke

[0072] 10 springs

[0073] 11 Switching Chamber

[0074] 12 Switching Chamber Wall

[0075] 13 Bottom of the switch chamber

[0076] 14 gases

[0077] 15 Inflatable Connector

[0078] 16 airtight areas

[0079] 17 permanent magnets

[0080] 18 Switch Status Identification Device

[0081] 19 Magnet Switch

[0082] 20 passive electronic units

[0083] 100 switchgear

[0084] 181 output terminal

[0085] 182 voltage terminal

[0086] 183 grounding terminal

[0087] 190 Hall sensor

[0088] 191 signal output terminal

[0089] 192 voltage input terminal

[0090] 193 grounding terminal

[0091] 194 comparators

[0092] 195 Reverse Polarity Protection Device

[0093] 200 series resistor

[0094] 201 First Capacitor

[0095] 202 Second Capacitor

[0096] 300 pull-up resistor

[0097] 400 Reading Electronic Device

[0098] 1000 operating equipment

Claims

1. A switching device (100), the switching device comprising: - At least one fixed contact (2, 3), a movable contact (4), and - Switch status identification device (18). in - The switch status identification device (18) has a permanent magnet (17), a magnetic switch (19) and a passive electronic unit (20) connected to the magnetic switch (19). - The movable contact (4) and the permanent magnet (17) can move together. - The magnetic switch (19) is a Hall switch with a Hall sensor (190), and - The passive electronic unit (20) is formed by one or more passive electrical components.

2. The switching device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the switching state identification device (18) does not have any other active electronic devices other than the magnetic switch (19).

3. The switching device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic switch (19) has a circuit with the Hall sensor (190) and the comparator (194).

4. The switching device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic switch (19) has a reverse polarity protection device (195).

5. The switching device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic switch (19) has a signal output terminal (191) which is directly connected to the output terminal (181) of the switch state recognition device (18), or the signal output terminal is the output terminal (181) of the switch state recognition device (18).

6. The switching device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the passive electronic unit (20) has a series resistor (200) directly connected to the voltage input terminal (192) of the magnet switch (19).

7. The switching device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the series resistor (200) is directly connected to the voltage terminal (182) of the switching state identification device (18).

8. The switching device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the passive electronic unit (20) has a first capacitor (201) connected in parallel with the magnetic switch (19).

9. The switching device (100) according to claim 8 and claim 6 or 7, wherein the first capacitor (201) is connected between the series resistor (200) and the magnetic switch (19).

10. The switching device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the passive electronic unit (20) has a second capacitor (202) connected to ground at the signal output terminal (191) of the magnet switch (19).

11. The switching device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second capacitor (202) is connected between the magnetic switch (19) and the output terminal (181) of the switch state recognition device (18).

12. The switching device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the switching state identification device (18) has the magnetic switch (19) and exactly one resistor and exactly two capacitors (201, 202) in the form of a series resistor (200).

13. The switching device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the switching device (100) has a magnetic armature (5), and the movable contact (4) and the permanent magnet (17) are capable of moving together by means of the magnetic armature (5).

14. The switching device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the permanent magnet (17) is disposed at the end of the magnetic armature (5) away from the movable contact (4).

15. An operating device (1000), the operating device comprising: - Switching device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims. - Pull-up resistor (300) and - Reading electronic device (400). The reading electronics (400) is directly connected to the output terminal (181) of the switch state identification device (18), and the pull-up resistor (300) is connected between the voltage terminal (182) and the output terminal (181) of the switch state identification device (18).

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