Improved switch and a switchgear assembly with such an improved switch, as well as a method for switching such an improved switch

The switch design addresses the complexity and space constraints of SF6-free load disconnect switches by employing a magnetic keyhole mechanism for arc extinction, ensuring efficient operation at medium and high voltages without SF6.

DE102022210429B4Active Publication Date: 2026-01-29SIEMENS AG
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE102022210429
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2022-09-30
Publication Date
2026-01-29
Estimated Expiration
2042-09-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing load disconnect switches for low, medium, and high voltages that do not use SF6 as an insulating and/or switching gas are complex and face space constraints, requiring combined rotary and linear movements.

Method used

A switch design with a fixed and moving contact, utilizing a magnetic keyhole mechanism comprising first and second magnetic systems, and closing systems to deflect and extinguish arcs without SF6, using insulating and magnetizable materials to isolate contacts and amplify magnetic fields.

Benefits of technology

Enables efficient arc extinction in switches operating at medium and high voltages without SF6, reducing complexity and space requirements while maintaining effective electrical isolation and arc quenching.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

Switches (10) for low, medium or high voltages, with a fixed contact (12), with a fixed contact contact area (14), a moving contact (16), with a moving contact contact area (18) and a quenching housing (25), wherein - the fixed contact (12) is led through a first extinguishing housing opening (26) of the extinguishing housing (25) into a switching area (30) with an arc extinguishing system (50), - the moving contact (16) is designed to be moved along a first switch axis (1000) from a closed position to an open position and from an open position to a closed position, wherein ◯ the moving contact (16) to move through a second extinguishing housing opening (27), ◯ the moving contact contact area (18) of the moving contact (16) in the closed position is in electrical contact with the fixed contact contact area (14), and ◯ the moving contact area (18) of the moving contact (16) is arranged in the open position outside the extinguishing housing (25) and is electrically isolated from the fixed contact area (14), - within the arc extinguishing system (50) at least one first magnetic system (60), one first closing system (100) and one second closing system (120) is arranged, wherein the first magnetic system (60) together with the first locking system (100) and the second locking system (120) form a magnetic keyhole (90), which magnetic keyhole (90) interrupts an arc that forms between the fixed contact (12) and the moving contact (16) under load when separating from the fixed contact (12) and the moving contact (16) by magnetic deflection and closing of the first locking system (100) and the second locking system (120), characterized in that the extinguishing system (50) further comprises a second magnetic system (70), which second magnetic system (70) at least partially surrounds the first magnetic system (60) and which second magnetic system (70) reinforces a magnetic field of the first magnetic system (60).
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Description

[0001] The invention relates to an improved switch for low, medium, and high voltages, a switchgear assembly with such an improved switch, and a method for switching low, medium, and high voltages on and off. The improved switch is specifically designed to perform switching operations without the use of SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride) as an insulating and / or switching gas. In particular, the improved switch is a load switch or load disconnect switch for low, medium, and high voltages, especially medium voltages.

[0002] Various solutions for load disconnect switches are known from the prior art, particularly those that do not use SF6. For example, DE 10 2013 217 834 A1 discloses a combination of a rotary switch and a vacuum interrupter. While this design does not use SF6, it is complex, has various limitations, including space constraints, and requires combining rotary and linear movements.

[0003] GB 385 478 A discloses a switch with a shutter system that can be supported by a magnetic coil for arc quenching.

[0004] The object of the invention is now to provide an alternative switching principle which eliminates the disadvantages of the prior art and in particular does not require sulfur hexafluoride as a switching gas.

[0005] The problem is solved by the independent claims and the claims dependent on them.

[0006] One embodiment relates to switches for low, medium or high voltages, switches for low, medium or high voltages, in particular medium voltages, with a fixed contact, with a fixed contact contact area, a moving contact, with a moving contact contact area and an arc quenching housing, wherein the fixed contact is guided through a first arc quenching housing opening of the arc quenching housing into a switching area with an arc quenching system, - the moving contact is designed to be moved along a first switch axis from a closed position to an open position and from an open position to a closed position, wherein ◯ the moving contact to move through a second extinguishing housing opening, ◯ the moving contact contact area of ​​the moving contact in the closed position is in electrical contact with the fixed contact contact area, and ◯ the moving contact area of ​​the moving contact is arranged outside the extinguishing housing in the open position and is electrically isolated from the fixed contact area, - within the arc extinguishing system at least one first magnetic system, one first closing system and one second closing system is arranged, wherein ◯ the first magnetic system together with the first locking system and the second locking system form a magnetic keyhole, which magnetic keyhole interrupts an arc that forms between the fixed contact and the moving contact when disconnecting from the fixed contact and moving contact under load, by magnetic deflection and closing of the first locking system and the second locking system, wherein the extinguishing system further comprises a second magnetic system, which second magnetic system at least partially surrounds the first magnetic system and which second magnetic system amplifies a magnetic field of the first magnetic system and thus the effect of the magnetic keyhole.

[0007] The arc extinguishing system therefore consists at least of the first magnetic system, the first closing system and the second closing system.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment, the fixed contact area is configured as a socket and the moving contact area as a plug, or the fixed contact area as a plug and the moving contact area as a socket. Alternatively, the fixed contact area and the moving contact area can also be configured as contact discs.

[0009] In particular, it is preferred that the second magnet system is formed with a first leg, a second leg and one or more base elements, wherein the base element(s) each have a base opening.

[0010] It is also preferred that the extinguishing housing is made with or from an insulating material. Alternatively, the extinguishing housing is formed with or from a magnetic or magnetizable material and the extinguishing housing simultaneously forms the second magnetic system, wherein the fixed contact and the moving contact are arranged electrically isolated from the extinguishing housing, in particular by electrically insulating sleeves and / or sliding sleeves.

[0011] Regardless of the extinguishing housing material, an arrangement of the fixed contact on the extinguishing housing in an insulating sleeve and the arrangement of the moving contact, or guiding the moving contact in an insulating sleeve and / or an insulating sliding sleeve, is advantageous.

[0012] It is also preferred that the second magnetic system consists of: - at least a magnetic horseshoe magnet, or - a U-shaped magnetic or magnetizable material, or - is formed from a cuboid magnetic or magnetizable material open on two sides and partially hollow, wherein the horseshoe magnet or the U-shaped magnetic or magnetizable material or the cuboid magnetic or magnetizable material open on two sides and partially hollow has a first leg, a second leg and one or more base elements connecting the first leg to the second leg, and the base element or base elements each have a base opening, which is configured to allow the moving contact to move through these base openings from the open position to the closed position and from the closed position to the open position. It is particularly preferred that the base openings are identical to the first and second quenching housing openings.

[0013] It is further preferred that the first magnet system is formed with permanent magnets, in particular with two or four permanent magnets. These two or four permanent magnets are in particular rectangular or cuboid-shaped permanent magnets.

[0014] It is also preferred that the extinguishing housing is not hermetically sealed and that hot gases are discharged perpendicular to the first switch axis.

[0015] It is also preferred that the first closure in the first closure guide and the second closure in the second closure guide are arranged to be movable parallel to the first leg and parallel to the second leg, respectively. Alternatively, the first closure in the first closure guide and the second closure in the second closure guide are further arranged to be movable at a first angle to the first leg and at a first angle to the second leg. In particular, the angle can also be 90°. A further alternative is that the movement of the first closure and the second closure can also be a rotation, in particular a rotation about the first switching axis.

[0016] It is also preferred that the first closure and the second closure are mechanically, or alternatively electronically, connected to the moving contact such that the first closure assumes the first closure position closing the first extinguishing housing opening and the second closure assumes the second closure position closing the second extinguishing housing opening when the moving contact moves to the open position, and that the first closure assumes the first closure position not closing the first extinguishing housing opening and the second closure assumes the first closure position not closing the second extinguishing housing opening when the moving contact moves to the closed position.

[0017] It is also preferred that the first closure guide encloses the first closure from four sides, except for the area of ​​the first extinguishing housing opening, and that the first closure is slidably mounted in the first closure guide, and that the second closure guide encloses the second closure from four sides, except for the area of ​​the second extinguishing housing opening, and that the second closure is slidably mounted in the second closure guide.

[0018] It is also preferred that - the first locking system is arranged at the first extinguishing housing opening and the first locking system has a first locking guide and a first locking mechanism, and - the second locking system is arranged on the second extinguishing housing assembly and the second locking system has a second locking guide and a second locking mechanism, - wherein the first closure is designed to be movably arranged perpendicular to the first switch axis between a first closure position that closes the first extinguishing housing opening and a first closure position that does not close the first extinguishing housing opening, and the second closure is designed to be movably arranged perpendicular to the first switch axis between a second closure position that closes the second extinguishing housing opening and a second closure position that does not close the second extinguishing housing opening, - the first magnetic system is arranged in the second magnetic system in such a way that a magnetic field is formed between the first quenching housing opening and the second quenching housing opening, which is designed to deflect the arc between the fixed contact and the moving contact perpendicular to the first switch axis and thus form the magnetic keyhole.

[0019] It is particularly preferred that the first closure is mechanically connected to the moving contact in such a way that the first closure assumes the first closing position, closing the first extinguishing housing opening, when the moving contact moves to the open position, and that the first closure assumes the first closing position, not closing the first extinguishing housing opening, when the moving contact moves to the closed position, and that the second closure is mechanically connected to the moving contact in such a way that the second closure assumes the second closing position, closing the second extinguishing housing opening, when the moving contact moves to the open position, and that the second closure assumes the second closing position, not closing the second extinguishing housing opening, when the moving contact moves to the closed position.

[0020] It is also preferred that the first magnetic system is formed from two or four rectangular or cuboid permanent magnets and that the first magnetic system creates a closed loop of the magnetic fields in the area between the first and second openings of the quenching housing. For the purposes of this application, the closed loop of the magnetic fields is understood to mean the formation of the magnetic part of the magnetic keyhole.

[0021] It is also preferred that a third magnetic system is arranged in the first extinguishing housing opening and that a metallic or magnetic element is arranged on the first closure such that the first closure is locked to the third magnetic system with the metallic or magnetic element in the first closure position closing the first extinguishing housing opening, and that a fourth magnetic system is arranged in the second extinguishing housing opening and that a metallic or magnetic element is arranged on the second closure such that the second closure is locked to the fourth magnetic system with the metallic or magnetic element in the first closure position closing the second extinguishing housing opening.

[0022] It is particularly preferred that the first closure has a closing area, the second closure has a closing area, and that the closing area of ​​the first closure has a first thickening in the direction of the first extinguishing housing opening, and that the closing area of ​​the second closure has a second thickening pointing in the direction of the second extinguishing housing opening, wherein the first thickening is configured to be received by the first housing opening, and wherein the second thickening is configured to be received by the second housing opening.

[0023] It is particularly preferred that the first thickening and the second thickening have a dome shape, a spherical shape, or a truncated conical shape. Such a shape not only improves the locking properties but is also suitable for functioning as a sliding element and allowing low-resistance movement of the first and second locking elements. A column shape is also possible.

[0024] It is further preferred that the first locking guide and the second locking guide are each integrated into the extinguishing housing.

[0025] It is also preferred that the first closure has a closing area and a passage area, and that the second closure has a closing area and a passage area.

[0026] It is also preferred that the sealing area has a metallic element.

[0027] It is also preferred that the switch be suitable for operating medium or high voltages without the switching gas and / or insulating gas sulfur hexafluoride, in particular for switching off medium or high voltages under load.

[0028] Furthermore, it is preferred that the switch be operated as an air-insulated switch or a gas-insulated switch with an insulating gas and / or switching gas with a GWP (Global Warming Potential) < 1.

[0029] Another embodiment relates to a switchgear for low, medium, or high voltages, wherein the switchgear comprises one or more switches according to one or more of the preceding configurations. Single-pole or three-pole switchgear assemblies are particularly preferred, comprising one or three or a multiple thereof of one or three switches.

[0030] Another embodiment relates to a method for switching low, medium or high voltages on and off, wherein a moving contact is arranged to be displaceable relative to a fixed contact, and wherein - when the low, medium or high voltages are switched off, the moving contact detaches from the fixed contact with its moving contact contact area, an arc generated under load burns between the fixed contact and the moving contact, the moving contact contact area moves out of an arc extinguishing housing with an arc extinguishing system comprising a first magnetic system, a first closing system and a second closing system, and in doing so moves away from the fixed contact through a first extinguishing housing opening in the extinguishing housing, through the first magnetic system and through a second extinguishing housing opening in the extinguishing housing, and in doing so the arc is deflected by the first magnetic system perpendicular to a first switching axis along which the moving contact moves, the first extinguishing housing opening, after the moving contact has left the first extinguishing housing opening, is closed by a first closing system, the second extinguishing housing opening,after the moving contact has left the second extinguishing housing opening, is closed by a second closure, and the arc is extinguished by the combination of the first magnetic system and by closing the first extinguishing housing opening and closing the second extinguishing housing opening, and, - when low, medium or high voltages are switched on, the moving contact with its moving contact contact area approaches the fixed contact through the arc quenching system with a first magnetic system, a first closing system and a second closing system, and in doing so the first closing of the first closing system is moved in a first closing guide such that the first closing system assumes a first closing position that does not close the first quenching housing opening, the second closing of the second closing system is moved in a second closing guide such that the second closing system assumes a second closing position that does not close the second quenching housing opening and the moving contact passes the first quenching housing opening, the first magnetic system and the second quenching housing opening and the moving contact is moved further towards the fixed contact,until the moving contact in a closed position establishes electrical contact with the fixed contact, and wherein the extinguishing system further comprises a second magnetic system, which second magnetic system at least partially surrounds the first magnetic system, and wherein a magnetic field of the first magnetic system is amplified by the second magnetic system.

[0031] It is also preferred that the above method be carried out with one of the above embodiments for switches or switchgear.

[0032] With regard to the apparatus according to the invention, all descriptions given above and below concerning the method according to the invention apply accordingly, and vice versa. In particular, the apparatus according to the invention is configured to carry out the method according to the invention in any embodiment or combination of embodiments. Regarding the advantages of the apparatus according to the invention, reference is also made to the advantages described for the method according to the invention, and vice versa.

[0033] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to figures and exemplary embodiments. The specific design of the exemplary embodiments is in no way to be understood as restrictive for the general design of the method and the device according to the invention; rather, individual features of the exemplary embodiment can be freely combined with each other and with the features described above in any way.

[0034] The invention will be explained in more detail below using figures. Fig. 1: Exemplary schematic representation of a switchgear assembly according to the invention; Fig. 2: Schematic representation of a section through a switch according to the invention in the open state; Fig. 3: Schematic representation of a section through an alternative switch according to the invention in the open state; Fig. 4: Schematic representation of a section through a switch according to the invention in the closed state; Fig. 5: Enlarged section from the schematic representation of the section of the Fig. 2 by a switch according to the invention in the open state; Fig. 6: Exemplary schematic representation of the magnetic field of the magnetic keyhole.

[0035] The Fig. Figure 1 shows an exemplary schematic representation of a switchgear 1 according to the invention. A medium-voltage switchgear is shown as an example, but a switchgear for low or high voltages is also possible. The switchgear includes a switch 10 according to the invention for switching an electric current and / or an electric voltage on or off. The switchgear can, in particular, include one or more switches according to the invention, which are designed as load switches or load disconnect switches. The switchgear includes indicator elements 4, which can display information such as a switching position indicator, operating parameters, measured values, or other status indicators. Furthermore, the switchgear includes a control panel 6, via which, for example, switching operations can be performed.

[0036] The Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a section through a switch 10 according to the invention in the open state, i.e., in the off state. In the off state, the fixed contact 12 and the moving contact 16 are not in electrical contact with each other.

[0037] The fixed contact 12 extends into the extinguishing housing 25 and the arc extinguishing system 50. The fixed contact 12 is separated from the extinguishing housing 28 by an insulating sleeve 28, which also serves to attach an optional third magnetic system. The insulating sleeve 28, or the insulating sliding sleeve, also separates the moving contact 16 from the extinguishing housing and serves to optionally attach a fourth magnetic system 82. The arc extinguishing system 50 is formed here by the first magnetic system 60, the second magnetic system 70, the third magnetic system 80, the fourth magnetic system 82, the first closing system 100, and the second closing system 120, wherein the second magnetic system 70, the third magnetic system 80, and the fourth magnetic system are optional, and the optional second magnetic system 70 is integrated into the extinguishing housing 25.

[0038] Particularly at higher voltages and currents, the optional second magnetic system 70, the optional third magnetic system 80, and the optional fourth magnetic system 82 are advantageous. The first locking system 100 and the second locking system 120 are shown here as examples arranged inside the extinguishing housing 25; alternatively, and not shown here, an arrangement on the outside of the extinguishing housing 25 or integration into a wall of the extinguishing housing 25 is also possible and may be advantageous.

[0039] In the example of the Fig. The two contacts are designed as interlocking contacts. The moving contact 16 has a moving contact contact area 18, which is designed to retract into a hollow inner area 13 of the fixed contact 12. The inner area 13 of the fixed contact 12 has an optional contact element 15 in the fixed contact contact area 14. The optional contact element 15 is designed here in the form of a ring, lamellar, or spring contact element. The moving contact 16 is designed and arranged such that the moving contact 16 can be moved in a switching range 30 along the first switch axis 1000.

[0040] The fixed contact 12 and the moving contact 16 are in the Fig. 2 contacted through the symbolic switch terminals 11 and connected to an electrical network or system.

[0041] The first locking system 100 consists, for example, of the Fig. 2 consisting of a first closure guide 102 and a first closure 104. The first closure 104 further comprises a closing area 1041 and an optional passage area 1042. The closing area 1041 also features an optional thickening 1043. This thickening 1043 assists in extinguishing or interrupting the arc by securely closing the first extinguishing housing opening 26. The first thickening 1043 is optionally designed as a spherical segment, but a dome shape, a truncated cone, or a column shape is also possible.

[0042] The second locking system 120 consists, for example, of the Fig. 2 from a second closure guide 122 and a second closure 124. The second closure 124 further comprises a closing area 1241 and an optional passage area 1242. The closing area 1241 also features an optional thickening 1243. This thickening 1243 assists in extinguishing or interrupting the arc by securely closing the second extinguishing housing opening 27. The second thickening 1243 is optionally designed as a spherical segment, but a dome shape, a truncated cone, or a column shape is also possible.

[0043] In the open position of the switch 10 shown, the first closure 104 of the first closure system 100 is in a first closure position closing the first extinguishing housing opening 26, and the second closure 124 of the second closure system 120 is in a second closure position closing the second extinguishing housing opening 27.During the transition from the closed position of the switch 10 to the open position, the first quenching housing opening 26 and the second quenching housing opening 27 are preferably closed as soon as the moving contact 16 has left the area—in particular, the area of ​​the first closing guide 102 and the second closing guide 122—that the first closure 104 and the second closure 124 require for movement into their respective closing positions, thus clearing the path for the first closure 104 and the second closure 124. The closing area 1041 of the first closure 104 is also shown. Both the first closure 104 and the second closure 124 have a closing area 1041, 1241 and a non-closing area 1042, 1242.

[0044] Furthermore, the Fig. 2. The arrangement of the first magnet system 60 is also shown, here exemplified by rectangular permanent magnets 60, with only two of the four rectangular permanent magnets 60 visible. The rectangular permanent magnets 60 of the first magnet system 60 are arranged in the optional second magnet system 70 such that an annular closure of magnetic field lines is formed in an inner region 62 of the first magnet system 60. This closure causes any arc that may occur to be deflected from a straight or roughly straight propagation along a first switch axis. This deflection of the arc assists in interrupting the arc. Furthermore, the interruption of the arc is supported by limitations provided by the first quenching housing opening 26 and the second quenching housing opening 27.The interruption of the arc is further supported by closing the first shutter system 100 with the first shutter 104 and by closing the second shutter system 120 with the second shutter 124.

[0045] In the particularly preferred embodiment of the switch 10 shown here, an optional third magnetic system 80 is arranged at the first extinguishing housing opening 26, which is formed here by means of a ring magnet 80. In the particularly preferred embodiment shown, the first closure has a metallic or magnetic element 105 which, when the first closure 104 is closed, accelerates the closing process and, in the first closure position that closes the first extinguishing housing opening 26, locks the first closure 104 in the closing position. In this locked first closure position, the risk of hot gases or the electric arc overcoming the closed first closure system 100 is further prevented, or rather, the risk of such overcoming is reduced.

[0046] Furthermore, in the particularly preferred embodiment of the switch 10 shown, an optional fourth magnetic system 82 is arranged at the second extinguishing housing opening 27, which here is formed by means of a ring magnet 82. In the particularly preferred embodiment shown, the second closure 124 also has a metallic or magnetic element 105 which, when the second closure 124 is closed, accelerates the closing process and, in the second closure position that closes the second extinguishing housing opening 27, locks the second closure 124 in the first closing position. In this locked second closing position, the risk of hot gases or the electric arc overcoming the closed second closure system 120 is further prevented, or rather, the risk of such overcoming is reduced.

[0047] Between the inner region 62 of the first magnet system 60 and the first magnet system 60, there is in the Fig. 2 An optional protective barrier 65 is arranged, which optionally protects the first magnet system 60 from the effects of the electric arc or hot gases. The protective barrier 65 is preferably made of electrically conductive materials, such as metals or metal sheets, or of electrically insulating materials, such as plastics or ceramics, in particular metal oxides, or other suitable materials. The optional protective barrier 65 forms a channel that is suitable for diverting hot gases perpendicular to the first axis 1000 and, if necessary, for directing them out of the quenching housing 25.

[0048] The Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a section through an alternative switch 10 according to the invention in the open state, i.e., in the off state. In the off state, the fixed contact 12 and the moving contact 16 are not in electrical contact with each other.

[0049] The fixed contact 12 extends into the extinguishing housing 25 and the arc extinguishing system 50. The fixed contact 12 is separated from the extinguishing housing 28 by an insulating sleeve 28, which also serves to mount an optional third magnetic system. The insulating sleeve 28, or the insulating sliding sleeve, also separates the moving contact 16 from the extinguishing housing and serves to optionally mount a fourth magnetic system 82.

[0050] The arc quenching system 50 is formed here with the first magnetic system 60, the second magnetic system 70, the third magnetic system 80, the fourth magnetic system 82, the first closing system 100, and the second closing system 120, wherein the second magnetic system 70, the third magnetic system 80, and the fourth magnetic system are optional, and the optional second magnetic system 70 is realized here by a horseshoe magnet or U-shaped magnetic or magnetizable material 72. A U-shaped magnetic or magnetizable material 72 is shown, which here is formed from a base element 75 and a first leg 73 and a second leg 74 (not visible here), and further has a base opening 76 as a passage for the moving contact 16. The base element connects the first leg 73 and the second leg 74.

[0051] Particularly at higher voltages and currents, the optional second magnetic system 70, the optional third magnetic system 80, and the optional fourth magnetic system 82 are advantageous. The first locking system 100 and the second locking system 120 are shown here, by way of example, arranged inside the extinguishing housing 25; alternatively, and not shown here, it is also possible and potentially advantageous to arrange the first locking system 100 and the second locking system 120 on the outside of the extinguishing housing 25 or to integrate them into a respective wall of the extinguishing housing 25.

[0052] In the example of the Fig. The 3 contacts are designed as interlocking contacts. The moving contact 16 has a moving contact contact area 18, which is designed to retract into a hollow inner area 13 of the fixed contact 12. The inner area 13 of the fixed contact 12 has an optional contact element 15 in the fixed contact contact area 14. The optional contact element 15 is designed here in the form of a ring, lamellar, or spring contact element.

[0053] The moving contact 16 is designed and arranged such that the moving contact 16 can be moved in a switching range 30 along the first switch axis 1000.

[0054] The fixed contact 12 and the moving contact 16 are in the Fig. 2 contacted through the symbolic switch terminals 11 and connected to an electrical network or system.

[0055] The first locking system 100 consists, for example, of the Fig. 3. A first closure guide 102, integrated into the extinguishing housing 25 and therefore not visible, and a first closure 104. The first closure 104 further comprises a closing area 1041 and an optional passage area 1042. The closing area 1041 also features an optional thickening 1043. This thickening 1043 assists in extinguishing or interrupting the arc by securely closing the first extinguishing housing opening 26. The first thickening 1043 is optionally designed as a spherical segment, but a dome shape, a truncated cone, or a column shape is also possible.

[0056] The second locking system 120 consists, for example, of the Fig. 3 consists of a second locking guide 122 integrated into the extinguishing housing 25 and therefore not visible, and a second locking mechanism 124. The second locking mechanism 124 further comprises a closing area 1241 and an optional passage area 1242. The closing area 1241 also features an optional thickening 1243. This thickening 1243 assists in extinguishing or interrupting the arc by securely closing the second extinguishing housing opening 27. The second thickening 1243 is optionally designed as a spherical segment, but a dome shape, a truncated cone, or a column shape is also possible.

[0057] In the open position of the switch 10 shown, the first closure 104 of the first closure system 100 is in a first closure position closing the first extinguishing housing opening 26, and the second closure 124 of the second closure system 120 is in a second closure position closing the second extinguishing housing opening 27.

[0058] During the transition from the closed position of the switch 10 to the open position, the first quenching housing opening 26 and the second quenching housing opening 27 are preferably closed as soon as the moving contact 16 has left the area—in particular, the area of ​​the first closing guide 102 and the second closing guide 122—that the first closure 104 and the second closure 124 require for movement into their respective closing positions, thus clearing the path for the first closure 104 and the second closure 124. The closing area 1041 of the first closure 104 is also shown. Both the first closure 104 and the second closure 124 have a closing area 1041, 1241 and a non-closing area 1042, 1242.

[0059] Furthermore, the Fig. 3. The arrangement of the first magnet system 60 is also shown, here exemplified by rectangular permanent magnets 60, with only two of the four rectangular permanent magnets 60 visible. The rectangular permanent magnets 60 of the first magnet system 60 are arranged in the optional second magnet system 70 such that an annular closure of magnetic field lines is formed in an inner region 62 of the first magnet system 60. This closure causes any arc that may occur to be deflected from a straight or roughly straight propagation along a first switch axis. This deflection of the arc assists in interrupting the arc. Furthermore, the interruption of the arc is supported by limitations provided by the first quenching housing opening 26 and the second quenching housing opening 27.

[0060] The interruption of the arc is further supported by closing the first shutter system 100 with the first shutter 104 and by closing the second shutter system 120 with the second shutter 124.

[0061] In the particularly preferred embodiment of the switch 10 shown here, an optional third magnetic system 80 is arranged at the first extinguishing housing opening 26, which is formed here by means of a ring magnet 80. In the particularly preferred embodiment shown, the first closure has a metallic or magnetic element 105 which, when the first closure 104 is closed, accelerates the closing process and, in the first closure position that closes the first extinguishing housing opening 26, locks the first closure 104 in the closing position. In this locked first closure position, the risk of hot gases or the electric arc overcoming the closed first closure system 100 is further prevented, or rather, the risk of such overcoming is reduced.

[0062] Furthermore, in the particularly preferred embodiment of the switch 10 shown, an optional fourth magnetic system 82 is arranged at the second extinguishing housing opening 27, which here is formed by means of a ring magnet 82. In the particularly preferred embodiment shown, the second closure 124 also has a metallic or magnetic element 105 which, when the second closure 124 is closed, accelerates the closing process and, in the second closure position that closes the second extinguishing housing opening 27, locks the second closure 124 in the first closing position. In this locked second closing position, the risk of hot gases or the electric arc overcoming the closed second closure system 120 is further prevented, or rather, the risk of such overcoming is reduced.

[0063] Between the inner region 62 of the first magnet system 60 and the first magnet system 60, a connection can also be made in the Fig. 3. An optional protective barrier 65 could be arranged, but this is not shown because it would obscure the first magnet system 60 and the second magnet system 70. The arrangement would, however, be analogous to... Fig. 2 will follow.

[0064] The Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a section through a switch 10 according to the invention in the closed state, i.e., in the switched-on state. In the switched-on state, the fixed contact 12 and the moving contact 16 are in electrical contact with each other.

[0065] The fixed contact 12 extends into the extinguishing housing 25 and the arc extinguishing system 50. The fixed contact 12 is separated from the extinguishing housing 28 by an insulating sleeve 28, which also serves to mount an optional third magnetic system. The insulating sleeve 28, or the insulating sliding sleeve, also separates the moving contact 16 from the extinguishing housing and serves to optionally mount a fourth magnetic system 82.

[0066] The arc quenching system 50 is formed here with the first magnetic system 60, the third magnetic system 80, the fourth magnetic system 82, the first sealing system 100, and the second sealing system 120, wherein the third magnetic system 80 and the fourth magnetic system 82 are optional. The optional third magnetic system 80 and the optional fourth magnetic system 82 are particularly advantageous at higher voltages and currents. The first sealing system 100 and the second sealing system 120 are shown here, by way of example, arranged inside the insulating housing 25; alternatively, and not shown here, an arrangement on the outside of the insulating housing 25 or integration into a respective wall of the insulating housing 25 is also possible and may be advantageous.

[0067] In the example of the Fig. The 4 contacts are designed as interlocking contacts. The moving contact 16 has a moving contact contact area 18 which – as shown – is designed to retract into a hollow inner area 13 of the fixed contact 12. The inner area 13 of the fixed contact 12 has an optional contact element 15 in the fixed contact contact area 14. The optional contact element 15 is designed here in the form of a ring, lamellar, or spring contact element and is arranged here between the fixed contact contact area 14 and the moving contact contact area 18.

[0068] The moving contact 16 is designed and arranged such that the moving contact 16 can be moved in a switching range 30 along the first switch axis 1000.

[0069] The fixed contact 12 and the moving contact 16 are in the Fig. 4 are contacted through the symbolic switch terminals 11 and connected to an electrical network or system.

[0070] In the area of ​​the first magnetic system 60, a first locking system 100 and a second locking system 120 are arranged. The first locking system 100 is formed here by a first locking guide 102, which is integrated into the extinguishing housing 25, and a first locking device 104. The second locking system 120 is formed here by a second locking guide 122, which is integrated into the extinguishing housing 25, and a second locking device 124.

[0071] In the closed position of the switch 10 shown, the first closure 104 of the first closure system 100 is in a first closure position that does not close the first extinguishing housing opening 26, and the second closure 124 of the second closure system 120 is in a second closure position that does not close the second extinguishing housing opening 27.

[0072] Also shown here is the non-closing area 1042 of the first closure 104. Both the first closure 104 and the second closure 124 optionally have a non-closing area 1042, 1242 and a closing area 1041, 1241.

[0073] Furthermore, the Fig. 4. The arrangement of the first magnet system 60 is also shown, here by way of example in the form of rectangular permanent magnets 60, whereby only two of the four rectangular permanent magnets 60 are visible. The rectangular permanent magnets 60 of the first magnet system 60 are arranged in the optional second magnet system 70 such that an annular closure of magnetic field lines is formed in an inner region 62 of the first magnet system 60, which causes any arc that may occur to be deflected from a straight or roughly straight propagation along a first switch axis. This deflection of the arc assists in interrupting the arc. The interruption of the arc is further assisted by limits provided by the first quenching housing opening 26 and the second quenching housing opening 27.

[0074] The interruption of the arc is further supported by closing the first shutter system 100 with the first shutter 104 and by closing the second shutter system 120 with the second shutter 124.

[0075] In the particularly preferred embodiment of the switch 10 shown here, an optional third magnetic system 80 is arranged at the first quenching housing opening 26, which is formed here by means of a ring magnet 80, and an optional fourth magnetic system 82 is arranged at the second quenching housing opening 27, which is formed here by means of a ring magnet 82.In the particularly preferred embodiment shown, the first closure 104 and the second closure 124 each have a metallic or magnetic element 105 which, when closing the first closure 104 and the second closure 124, on the one hand accelerates the closing process and, on the other hand, locks the first closure 104 in the first closing position, which closes the first extinguishing housing opening 26, and locks the second closure 124 in the second closing position, which closes the second extinguishing housing opening 27.

[0076] Between the inner region 62 of the first magnet system 60 and the first magnet system 60, there is in the Fig. 4. A protective barrier 65 is arranged in each of the magnet systems, optionally protecting the first magnet system 60 from the effects of the electric arc or hot gases. The protective barrier 65 is preferably made of electrically conductive materials, such as metals or metal sheets, or of electrically insulating materials, such as plastics or ceramics, in particular metal oxides, or other suitable materials.

[0077] The Fig. Figure 5 shows a close-up detail from the schematic representation of the section of the Fig. 2 by the switch 10 according to the invention in the open state. The fixed contact area 14 with the contact element 15 is arranged in an electrically insulating sleeve 28 in a wall of the extinguishing housing 25. The third magnetic system 80, in the form of a ring magnet 80, is arranged in a receptacle 251 of the extinguishing housing 25. The U-shaped receptacle 251 enables easy assembly and, together with the insulating sleeve 28, secure mounting. Such a U-shaped receptacle 251 is optionally also provided at the second opening of the extinguishing housing, but is not shown here.

[0078] In the Fig. 5 The first quenching housing opening is closed by the first closure 104 with the closing area 1041. The spherical segment thickening 1043 on the first closure 104, together with the third magnetic system 80 and the metallic or magnetic element 105, improves the closing and locking properties of the first closure system 100. The first closure 104 has a passage area 1042. The first closure 104 is arranged to be displaceable perpendicular to the first switch axis 1000.

[0079] The Fig.Figure 6 shows an exemplary schematic representation of the magnetic field of the magnetic keyhole 90. The magnetic field is represented here by exemplary magnetic field lines 92. The first magnetic system 60, together with the second magnetic system 70, forms the magnetic keyhole 90. The second magnetic system 70 is represented here by the first leg 73 and the second leg 74 of the U-shaped magnetic or magnetizable material 72. The moving contact 16 is thus moved through the magnetic keyhole, and any burning arc is deflected through the magnetic keyhole as shown for one side of the magnetic keyhole 90 with the arrow indicating the direction of deflection 95 of the arc. The north poles 60' and the south poles 60'' of the permanent magnets of the first magnetic system 60 are marked accordingly. Reference symbol list 1 Switchgear; 4 Display element; 6 Control panel; 10 switches; 11 symbolic switch connections on switch 10; 12 fixed contacts; 13 Interior of the fixed contact 12; 14 Fixed contact area; 15 Contact element in the fixed contact contact area 14 in the interior of the fixed contact 12; 16 Moving contact; 18 Moving contact contact area; 25 extinguishing housings; 251 Recording in the extinguishing housing 25; 26 first extinguishing housing opening in extinguishing housing 25; 27 second extinguishing housing opening in extinguishing housing 25; 28 electrically insulating sleeve and / or sliding sleeve; 30 switching range; 50 arc extinguishing system; 60 first magnetic system, for example realized with four rectangular permanent magnets; 60' North pole of a permanent magnet of the first magnetic system 60; 60'' South pole of a permanent magnet of the first magnetic system 60; 62 inner area of ​​the first magnet system 60; 65 protective barrier at the first magnet system 60; 70 second magnetic system; 72 Horseshoe magnet or U-shaped magnetic or magnetizable material; 73 first leg of the horseshoe magnet or of the U-shaped magnetic or magnetizable material 72; 74 second leg of the horseshoe magnet or of the U-shaped magnetic or magnetizable material 72; 75 basic elements connecting the first leg 73 and the second leg 74; 76 Base opening; 80 third magnetic system; 82 fourth magnetic system; 90 magnetic keyhole; 92 magnetic field lines resulting from the first magnetic system 60 and the second magnetic system 70; 95 Deflection direction of an electric arc in the magnetic field of the magnetic keyhole 90; 100 first locking system; 102 first locking guide; 104 first closure for closing the first closure opening 103 by moving in the first closure guide 102; 1041 sealing area in the first closure 104; 1042 Passage area in the first closure 104; 1043 Thickening at the first closure 104; 105 metallic or magnetic element at the first closure 104 and / or at the second closure 124; 120 second locking system; 122 second locking guide; 124 second closure for closing the second closure opening 123 by moving in the second closure guide 122; 1000 first switch axis; 1241 sealing area in the second closure 124; 1242 Passage area in the second lock 124; 1243 Thickening at the second closure 124.

Claims

[1] Switches (10) for low, medium or high voltages, comprising a fixed contact (12), a fixed contact area (14), a moving contact (16), a moving contact area (18) and a quenching housing (25), wherein - the fixed contact (12) is led through a first extinguishing housing opening (26) of the extinguishing housing (25) into a switching area (30) with an arc extinguishing system (50), - the moving contact (16) is designed to be moved along a first switch axis (1000) from a closed position to an open position and from an open position to a closed position, wherein ◯ the moving contact (16) to move through a second extinguishing housing opening (27), ◯ the moving contact contact area (18) of the moving contact (16) in the closed position is in electrical contact with the fixed contact contact area (14), and ◯ the moving contact area (18) of the moving contact (16) is arranged in the open position outside the extinguishing housing (25) and is electrically isolated from the fixed contact area (14), - within the arc extinguishing system (50) at least one first magnetic system (60), one first closing system (100) and one second closing system (120) is arranged, wherein the first magnetic system (60) together with the first locking system (100) and the second locking system (120) form a magnetic keyhole (90), which magnetic keyhole (90) interrupts an arc that forms between the fixed contact (12) and the moving contact (16) when separating from the fixed contact (12) and the moving contact (16) under load, by magnetic deflection and closing of the first locking system (100) and the second locking system (120), characterized by, that the extinguishing system (50) further comprises a second magnetic system (70), which second magnetic system (70) at least partially surrounds the first magnetic system (60) and which second magnetic system (70) reinforces a magnetic field of the first magnetic system (60). [2] Switch (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the second magnet system (70) is formed with a first leg (73), a second leg (74) and one or more base elements (75), wherein the base element(s) each have a base opening (76). [3] Switch (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the extinguishing housing (25) is made of or with an insulating material. [4] Switch (10) according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterized by, that the quenching housing (25) is formed with or from a magnetic or magnetizable material and the quenching housing (25) simultaneously forms the second magnetic system (70), wherein the fixed contact (12) and the moving contact (16) are arranged electrically insulated from the quenching housing (25). [5] Switch (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 2 to 4, characterized by , that - the second magnet system (70) from: ◯ at least a magnetic horseshoe magnet, or ◯ a U-shaped magnetic or magnetizable material (72), or o a cuboid-shaped magnetic or magnetizable material open on two sides and partially hollow, - wherein the horseshoe magnet or the U-shaped magnetic or magnetizable material (72) or the cuboid magnetic or magnetizable material open on two sides and partially hollow has a first leg (73), a second leg (74) and one or more base elements (75) connecting the first leg (73) to the second leg (74), and the base element (75) or base elements (75) each have a base opening (76), which are designed to allow the moving contact (16) to move through these base openings (76) from the open position to the closed position and from the closed position to the open position. [6] Switch (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that - the first locking system (100) is arranged at the first extinguishing housing opening (26) and the first locking system (100) has a first locking guide (102) and a first locking mechanism (104), and - the second locking system (120) is arranged on the second extinguishing housing assembly and the second locking system (120) has a second locking guide (122) and a second locking mechanism (124), - wherein the first closure (104) is configured to be movably arranged perpendicular to the first switch axis (1000) between a first closure position that closes the first extinguishing housing opening (26) and a first closure position that does not close the first extinguishing housing opening (26), and the second closure (124) is configured to be movably arranged perpendicular to the first switch axis (1000) between a second closure position that closes the second extinguishing housing opening (27) and a second closure position that does not close the second extinguishing housing opening (27), and - the first magnetic system (60) is arranged in the second magnetic system (70) such that a magnetic field is formed between the first quenching housing opening (26) and the second quenching housing opening (27), which is designed to deflect the arc between the fixed contact (12) and the moving contact (16) perpendicular to the first switch axis (1000) and thus form the magnetic keyhole. [7] Switch (10) according to claim 6, characterized by, that the first closure (104) is mechanically connected to the moving contact (16) such that the first closure (104) assumes the first closure position, closing the first extinguishing housing opening (26), when the moving contact (16) moves to the open position, and that the first closure (104) assumes the first closure position, not closing the first extinguishing housing opening (26), when the moving contact (16) moves to the closed position, and the second closure (124) is mechanically connected to the moving contact (16) such that the second closure (124) assumes the second closure position, closing the second extinguishing housing opening (27), when the moving contact (16) moves to the open position, and that the second closure (124) assumes the second closure position, not closing the second extinguishing housing opening (27), when the moving contact (16) moves to the closed position. [8] Switch (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first magnet system (60) is formed from two or four rectangular permanent magnets and that the first magnet system (60) creates a circuit of the magnetic fields in the area between the first extinguishing housing opening (26) and the second extinguishing housing opening (27). [9] Switch (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that a third magnetic system (80) is arranged in the first extinguishing housing opening (26) and that a metallic or magnetic element (105) is arranged on the first closure (104) such that the first closure (104) is locked with the metallic or magnetic element (105) in the first closure position closing the first extinguishing housing opening (26) on the third magnetic system (80), and that a fourth magnetic system (82) is arranged in the second extinguishing housing opening (27) and that a metallic or magnetic element (105) is arranged on the second closure (124) such that the second closure (124) is locked with the metallic or magnetic element (105) in the first closure position closing the second extinguishing housing opening (27) on the fourth magnetic system (82). [10] Switch (10) according to claim 9, characterized by, that the first closure (104) has a closing area (1041), the second closure (124) has a closing area (1241), and that the closing area (1041) of the first closure (104) has a first thickening (1043) in the direction of the first extinguishing housing opening (26), and the closing area (1241) of the second closure (124) has a second thickening (1243) pointing in the direction of the second extinguishing housing opening (27), wherein the first thickening (1043) is designed to be received by the first housing opening (26), and wherein the second thickening (1243) is designed to be received by the second housing opening (27). [11] Switch (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first locking guide (102) and the second locking guide (122) are each integrated in the extinguishing housing (25). [12] Switchgear (1) for low, medium or high voltages, characterized by , that the switchgear (1) comprises one or more switches according to one of the preceding claims. [13] Method for switching low, medium or high voltages on and off, wherein a moving contact (16) is arranged to be displaceable relative to a fixed contact (12), and wherein - when the low, medium or high voltages are switched off, the moving contact (16) with its moving contact contact area (18) detaches from the fixed contact, an arc generated under load burns between the fixed contact (12) and the moving contact (16), the moving contact contact area (18) moves out of an arc extinguishing housing (25) with an arc extinguishing system (50) comprising a first magnetic system (60), a first closing system (100) and a second closing system (120), and thereby moves away from the fixed contact (12) through a first extinguishing housing opening (26) in the extinguishing housing (25), through the first magnetic system and through a second extinguishing housing opening (27) in the extinguishing housing (25), and the arc is deflected by the first magnetic system (60) perpendicular to a first switching axis (1000) along which the moving contact moves, the first extinguishing housing opening (26), after the moving contact has left the first extinguishing housing opening (26) has,the second extinguishing housing opening (27) is closed by a first closure (104), after the moving contact (16) has left the second extinguishing housing opening (27), is closed by a second closure (124) and the arc is extinguished by the combination of the first magnetic system (60) and by closing the first extinguishing housing opening (26) and the second extinguishing housing opening (27), and, - when the low, medium or high voltages are switched on, the moving contact (16) with its moving contact contact area (18) approaches the fixed contact (12) through the arc quenching system (50) with a first magnetic system (60), a first closing system (100) and a second closing system (120), and in doing so the first closing (104) of the first closing system (100) is moved in a first closing guide (102) such that the first closing system (100) assumes a first closing position that does not close the first quenching housing opening (26), the second closing (124) of the second closing system (120) is moved in a second closing guide (122) such that the second closing system (120) assumes a second closing position that does not close the second quenching housing opening (27) and the moving contact (16) closes the first quenching housing opening (26),the first magnetic system (60) and the second quenching housing opening (27) is passed and the moving contact (16) is moved further towards the fixed contact (12) until the moving contact (16) in a closed position establishes electrical contact with the fixed contact, characterized by , that the extinguishing system (50) further comprises a second magnetic system (70), which second magnetic system (70) at least partially surrounds the first magnetic system (60) and wherein a magnetic field of the first magnetic system (60) is amplified by the second magnetic system (70).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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