Contact bridge arrangement for a switching device and switching device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a contact bridge arrangement (1) for connecting stationary fixed contacts (6) of an electrical switching device (4), for example a contactor or relay, wherein the contact bridge arrangement (1) comprises a holder (14) for attaching the contact bridge arrangement (1) to a drive (12) of the switching device (4), an electrically conductive contact bridge (22) which is spaced apart from the holder (14) in a switching direction (10) and movable relative to the holder (14), and an overtravel spring (34) which is arranged for force transmission between the holder (14) and the contact bridge (22) and is designed to be compressible in the switching direction (10), wherein the contact bridge arrangement (1) has an initial position (38) and an end position (40),wherein the overtravel spring (34) is compressed more strongly in the switching direction in the end position (40) than in the initial position (38) and wherein the contact bridge (22) is displaced relative to the holder (14) transversely to the switching direction (10) in the end position (40) compared to the initial position (38). The transverse displacement of the contact bridge ensures that contaminants and / or oxide layers are removed from the contact surfaces. The invention further relates to a contact bridge bundle and a switching device.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a contact bridge arrangement for connecting stationary fixed contacts of an electrical switching device, for example, a contactor or relay. The present invention also relates to a contact bridge bundle comprising multiple contact bridge arrangements. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a switching device comprising such a contact bridge arrangement or such a contact bridge bundle.

[0002] In many areas of technology, electrical circuits are opened and closed using switching devices for control purposes. To achieve this opening and closing of the circuit, for example, related contact elements within the switching devices are separated or brought into contact with each other.

[0003] When closed, an electric current can flow through the circuit and operate electrical devices and modules connected to it. Opening the circuit, on the other hand, interrupts the current flow, allowing the circuit to be stopped if necessary.

[0004] With continued use, the operating characteristics of the switching devices deteriorate, necessitating maintenance or repair, up to and including complete replacement.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for switching devices with the longest possible maintenance intervals.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to maintain the performance of switching devices for as long as possible and thus to extend their maintenance intervals or service life.

[0007] This problem is solved by a contact bridge arrangement of the type mentioned above, wherein the contact bridge arrangement comprises a holder for attaching the contact bridge arrangement to a drive of the switching device, an electrically conductive contact bridge which is spaced away from the holder in a switching direction and movable relative to the holder, and an overtravel spring which is arranged for force transmission between the holder and the contact bridge and is designed to be compressible in the switching direction, wherein the contact bridge arrangement has an initial position and an end position, wherein the overtravel spring is compressed more strongly in the switching direction in the end position than in the initial position, and wherein the contact bridge in the end position is displaced transversely to the switching direction relative to the holder by the overtravel spring compared to the initial position.

[0008] Compression of the overtravel spring describes the process by which the overtravel spring is compressed between the holder and the contact bridge, causing it to bend. Specifically, compression can shorten the overtravel spring in the switching direction and widen it perpendicular to the switching direction. In other words, the overtravel spring is designed to be compressible in the switching direction. In the end position, the overtravel spring is then compressed more strongly in the switching direction than it is in the initial position. Displacement of the contact bridge perpendicular to the switching direction describes a controlled and repeatable movement triggered by the overtravel spring, which goes beyond the random, backlash-related slippage of the contact bridge within manufacturing tolerances and other geometric deviations.

[0009] The contact bridge arrangement is advantageous because it can be integrated into a switching device and automatically transitions from the initial position to the final position when a switching force is applied by the drive. The precise advantages of this are explained in more detail below.

[0010] Since the overtravel spring is positioned between the holder and the contact bridge, it can transmit the switching force of the actuator, acting in the switching direction and absorbed by the holder, to the contact bridge. Furthermore, the overtravel spring can transmit reactive contact forces of the stationary fixed contacts, acting against the switching direction and absorbed by the contact bridge, to the holder.

[0011] The simultaneous occurrence of switching force and contact forces compresses the overtravel spring. When the overtravel spring compresses, its extension in the switching direction decreases, while the spring pressure increases. Furthermore, the compression of the overtravel spring causes a kind of compensating movement of the contact bridge laterally, particularly perpendicular to the switching direction. In other words, the overtravel spring converts a portion of the spring pressure, the switching force, and the contact forces into a laterally acting compensating force, which causes the lateral displacement of the contact bridge.

[0012] The lateral displacement of the contact bridge, i.e., the relative displacement between the contact bridge and the holder perpendicular to the switching direction, allows a relative movement to be generated between the contact bridge and the fixed contacts. Due to this relative movement, contact surfaces between the contact bridge and the fixed contacts rub against each other. In this way, contaminants and / or oxide layers are removed from the respective contact surfaces. Consequently, each closing of the switching device cleans the contact surfaces of the contact bridge arrangement according to the invention. Therefore, the contact bridge arrangement, and thus also the switching device, retains its performance for a longer period.

[0013] The invention can be further improved by the following embodiments, each of which is advantageous in itself and can be combined with each other as desired.

[0014] According to a first possible embodiment, the contact bridge arrangement can include a cage that guides the contact bridge. In particular, the cage can guide the contact bridge transversely to the switching direction during the aforementioned lateral displacement or compensating movement. This prevents unintentional twisting or tearing of the contact bridge during the transition from the initial position to the final position.

[0015] During the transition from the initial to the final position, the contact bridge, in addition to its lateral displacement or compensating movement, also performs a switching movement towards the holder. Likewise, the switching movement can be directed away from the holder when the initial position is resumed. To stabilize the switching movements, the cage can also guide the contact bridge parallel to the switching direction.

[0016] The cage pre-tensions the overtravel spring so that it can operate within a suitable range of its spring characteristic. In other words, the cage always keeps the contact bridge at a distance from the holder, preventing the overtravel spring located between the contact bridge and the holder from extending to its untensioned length. In this configuration, the contact bridge is furthest from the holder in its initial position.

[0017] According to a further embodiment, the overtravel spring can extend at least partially transversely, and in particular diagonally, to the switching direction. In other words, a connecting line between the geometric centers of gravity of the cross-sectional areas of the overtravel spring can run at least partially transversely, and in particular diagonally, to the switching direction. For example, the overtravel spring can have at least one section that is inclined relative to the switching direction. The compression of the overtravel spring then causes a tilting movement of the inclined section, which in turn triggers the transverse displacement or compensating movement of the contact bridge. The direction of inclination of the overtravel spring thus defines the direction of the transverse displacement or compensating movement.

[0018] In a cost-effective embodiment, the overtravel spring can be designed as a leaf spring. The leaf spring can be stamped and / or bent from a flat spring element made of spring steel.

[0019] The contact bridge can be a bridge element with attached switching contacts. Each switching contact is designed to connect to one of the stationary fixed contacts of the switching device, thus connecting the fixed contacts to each other. Advantageously, the material of the switching contacts can then be chosen independently of the material of the bridge element. In particular, a material with low contact resistance can be used for the switching contacts. Alternatively, a bare bridge element without switching contacts can directly contact and connect the fixed contacts.

[0020] According to another possible embodiment, the overtravel spring can bear against the contact bridge at at least two points spaced apart from each other transversely to the switching direction. This increases the positional stability of the contact bridge. For example, the overtravel spring can extend from one end of the bridge element to the holder and from the holder to the other end of the bridge element. In other words, the overtravel spring can essentially have a V-shape. Accordingly, the overtravel spring can have at least two sections inclined relative to the switching direction. One inclined section runs between one end of the bridge element and the holder, while the other inclined section runs between the holder and the other end of the bridge element.

[0021] To still allow for unilateral lateral displacement or compensatory movement of the contact bridge, the extension spring can be slidably attached to the contact bridge at one of two points and immovably attached to the other. Specifically, the extension spring can be floating or slidingly mounted at one end of the bridge element and fixed at the other. For example, one end of the bridge can form a sliding bearing with the extension spring, while the other end can be welded, soldered, stamped, or positively connected to the extension spring. Thus, each end of the bridge and the extension spring has a section forming a sliding bearing.

[0022] The resulting displacement or immovability exists particularly perpendicular to the switching direction. Due to the immovability, one inclined section can transmit its tilting movement to the contact bridge, whereas the other inclined section, due to the displacement, cannot transmit its tilting movement.

[0023] Another factor that can impair the performance of switching devices is a short circuit in the circuit. During a short circuit, an increased short-circuit current flows, which causes strong repulsive forces between the contact bridge and the stationary fixed contacts. If the contact bridge is pushed away from the stationary fixed contacts, arcing can occur, which can damage the contact surfaces or the entire switching device.

[0024] To avoid such damage, it is advisable to incorporate several contact bridges into the switching device. The contact bridges can run parallel to each other. Alternatively, they can be spaced apart. Advantageously, the short-circuit current is distributed across the contact bridges, resulting in lower overall repulsive forces, especially since a portion of the repulsive forces is proportional to the square of the current.

[0025] Accordingly, a contact bridge bundle with a first contact bridge arrangement according to one of the above embodiments and a second contact bridge arrangement according to one of the above embodiments also solves the problem initially set out, since the contact bridge bundle, installed in the switching device, provides multiple contact bridges and thus prevents short-circuit damage. In other words, the contact bridge bundle increases the short-circuit withstand capability of the switching device.

[0026] The contact bridge bundle can comprise a total of two contact bridges, up to two overtravel springs, and up to two brackets. For example, within the contact bridge bundle, the overtravel spring of the first contact bridge assembly can be connected to the overtravel spring of the second contact bridge assembly in a way that transmits movement. Similarly, the bracket of the first contact bridge assembly can be connected to the bracket of the second contact bridge assembly in a way that transmits movement. This serves to synchronize the movements of the contact bridges.

[0027] Alternatively, the first and second contact bridge assemblies can share the same overtravel spring and / or the same bracket. In other words, the overtravel spring and / or bracket of the first contact bridge assembly can also serve as the overtravel spring or bracket of the second contact bridge assembly.

[0028] According to one possible embodiment, in the end positions of the first and second contact bridge arrangements, the respective contact bridges can be displaced in opposite directions to each other compared to their initial positions. In other words, the lateral displacements or compensating movements of the two contact bridges can be oriented in opposite directions to each other.

[0029] For example, the contact bridge of the first contact bridge assembly can occupy a position in its end position that the contact bridge of the second contact bridge assembly occupied in its initial position, and vice versa. This partial repositioning of the contact bridges means the contact bridge bundle requires comparatively little installation space and contributes to a compact design of the switching device.

[0030] The contact bridges of the contact bridge bundle can each have the aforementioned switching contacts. Adjacent switching contacts of the contact bridges can be offset from each other in their initial and / or final positions.

[0031] According to another possible embodiment, in the end positions of the first and second contact bridge arrangements, the respective contact bridges can abut each other, at least partially, transversely to the switching direction. In other words, the transverse displacements or compensating movements of the contact bridges can be limited by the other contact bridge. In particular, the contact bridges can be nested within each other so that they butt into each other after the transverse displacements or compensating movements. This buttocking prevents excessive friction between the contact surfaces. Furthermore, it ensures that the contact bridges have a stable position in their respective end positions and cannot "slide" further transversely to the switching direction.

[0032] A cost-saving embodiment in terms of manufacturing and component storage is achieved when the contact bridges of the first and second contact bridge arrangements are identical. In the aforementioned nested contact bridges, identical bridge elements can be used, with the switching contacts being attached in different positions to achieve the nesting.

[0033] Alternatively, the contact bridge of the first contact bridge assembly can be made, at least partially, of different materials than the contact bridge of the second contact bridge assembly. This different material selection can relate to the coating material, plating material, and / or core material, allowing the contact bridges to be "job-split." For example, one contact bridge, due to its material choice, can be less conductive but more resistant to arcing than the other. Conversely, the other contact bridge can have improved conductivity but be less resistant to arcing. During operation of the switching device, the spring parameters are then selected to ensure that the contact bridges close and / or open sequentially. The more resistant contact bridge closes and / or opens at a timing that results in more arcing events.The more conductive contact bridge closes and / or opens at a time when fewer or no arcs occur.

[0034] The problem initially addressed is also solved by a switching device with a contact bridge arrangement or a contact bridge bundle, each according to one of the embodiments described above. The switching device benefits from the functions and advantages of the contact bridge arrangement or contact bridge bundle already explained and is therefore characterized by an extended service life.

[0035] The switching device can be, for example, a contactor or relay. The switching device also includes an actuator and at least two stationary fixed contacts. Each contact bridge assembly is attached to the actuator via its mounting. Furthermore, the switching device has an open position, an arrival position, and a closed position.

[0036] In the open position, each contact bridge assembly is in its initial position, and its contact bridge is spaced away from the stationary fixed contacts in the switching direction. The circuit in which the switching device is installed would therefore be open.

[0037] In the arrival position, at least one contact bridge assembly is in its initial position, and its contact bridge rests against the stationary fixed contacts without force. In particular, in the arrival position, each contact bridge assembly can be in its initial position, with its contact bridge resting against the stationary fixed contacts without force. The arrival position thus represents the state of the closing switching device, in which the previously spaced contact bridges are just reaching the fixed contacts, but no contact forces have yet been established. Likewise, the arrival position can represent the state of the opening switching device, in which the contact bridges are about to separate from the contacted fixed contacts.

[0038] In the closed position, each contact bridge assembly is in its end position, with its contact bridge advanced transversely to the switching direction compared to the arrival position. The closed position thus represents the state of the closed switching device, in which the contact bridges electrically contact the fixed contacts under the influence of the switching force and contact forces.

[0039] According to one possible embodiment, the switching device can have a stop against which at least one contact bridge abuts in the closed position, transversely to the switching direction. The stop thus limits the lateral displacement or compensating movement of the abutting contact bridge. For example, the switching device can have a housing that forms the stop. In particular, the housing can have a contact chamber in which the contact bridge arrangement or the contact bridge bundle is arranged. An inner wall of the contact chamber can then form the stop. Preferably, the switching device has such a stop for each contact bridge.

[0040] As a further measure to increase short-circuit withstand capability, the switching device can have a locking mechanism designed to block at least one contact bridge in the closed position against the switching direction. This locking mechanism can be formed by a contact surface on the inner wall of the contact chamber, oriented in the switching direction. Due to the lateral displacement or compensating movement, the contact bridge to be blocked slides behind the contact surface like a latch. In other words, the contact bridge moves onto the contact surface in the closed position. Thus, the locking mechanism prevents the blocked contact bridge from moving against the switching direction. In particular, the locking mechanism can absorb the repulsive forces caused by the short circuit and thereby prevent the contact bridge from being repelled by the fixed contacts. Arc formation is thus prevented.

[0041] The locking mechanism does not, however, impede the proper opening of the switching device, during which the drive is deactivated. This is because deactivating the drive eliminates the switching force. Without this force, the overtravel spring is no longer compressed. Consequently, the lateral displacement or compensating movement of the contact bridge is also eliminated, and the contact bridge, previously blocked by the locking mechanism, retracts from behind the contact surface like a latch.

[0042] The locking structure can optionally be designed so that the at least one contact bridge is only blocked in the event of a short circuit. Thus, the switching device can exhibit both normal and short-circuit operation when the contact bridge arrangement is in the closed position. In normal operation, an operating current flows through the stationary fixed contacts and through the at least one contact bridge. In short-circuit operation, however, a short-circuit current, which is higher than the operating current, flows through the stationary fixed contacts and through the at least one contact bridge. The short-circuit current flowing in short-circuit operation can induce repulsive forces between the stationary fixed contacts and the at least one contact bridge. These repulsive forces can further compress the overtravel spring, thereby continuing the lateral displacement or compensating movement of the at least one contact bridge. Only with the continuation of the lateral displacement or...During the compensatory movement, at least one contact bridge engages the trapping structure and is blocked there.

[0043] For reasons of positional stability, it is advantageous if the locking structure blocks at least one contact bridge transversely to the switching direction on at least two sides. For this purpose, the locking structure should be present on both sides of the contact bridge arrangement or contact bridge bundle. For example, the locking structure can be formed by at least two contact surfaces that are opposite each other with respect to the contact chamber transversely to the switching direction.

[0044] In the closed position, at least one contact bridge moves onto one of the contact surfaces, as described above. The sliding bearing-forming section of the overtravel spring, also described above, can then move onto the other contact surface. In other words, at least one overtravel spring engages the catch structure in the closed position. Preferably, this is the overtravel spring of the contact bridge arrangement, which also includes the blocked contact bridge. For example, the overtravel spring can extend beyond the associated contact bridge, at least in the closed position, perpendicular to the switching direction and reach the catch structure.

[0045] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings, using several embodiments whose different features can be combined arbitrarily according to the above remarks.

[0046] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic perspective representation of a contact bridge arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. 2 a schematic perspective sectional view of the contact bridge arrangement from Fig. 1; Fig. 3 another schematic perspective sectional view of the contact bridge arrangement from Fig. 1; Fig. 4 a schematic perspective representation of a contact bridge arrangement according to a further exemplary embodiment; Fig. 5 a schematic sectional view of a switching device according to an exemplary embodiment in side view; Fig. 6 another schematic sectional view of the switching device Fig. 5; Fig. 7 another schematic sectional view of the switching device Fig. 5; Fig. 8 a schematic perspective sectional view of a contact bridge bundle according to an exemplary embodiment; and Fig. 9 another schematic perspective sectional view of the contact bridge bundle from Fig. 8.

[0047] The schematic structure of a contact bridge arrangement 1, a contact bridge bundle 2 and a switching device 4 is described with reference to Fig. Sections 1 to 9 are explained. The switching device 4 can, for example, be a DC electrical switching element, such as a contactor or relay, in particular a high-voltage contactor or relay. However, the present invention is not limited to DC and / or high-voltage applications and can also be used in other electrical switching devices.

[0048] The in Fig. The contact bridge arrangement 1 shown in Figure 1 can be part of the switching device 4 and serves to connect stationary fixed contacts 6 of the switching device 4 to each other. The switching device 4 can, in turn, be used to control an electrical circuit by opening and closing it. To achieve this opening and closing of the circuit, the contact bridge arrangement 1 and the stationary fixed contacts 6 are separated from each other and brought into contact with each other, respectively.

[0049] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the contact bridge arrangement 1 can be installed in a housing 8 of the switching device 4 and / or have its own housing (not shown), preferably made of electrically non-conductive material. In the housing 8, the stationary fixed contacts 6 are arranged opposite each other with respect to a switching direction 10 of the contact bridge arrangement 1.

[0050] Furthermore, an actuator 12 of the switching device 4 is installed in the housing 8 and serves to move the contact bridge assembly 1 towards or away from the stationary fixed contacts 6 along the switching direction 10. The movement of the actuator 12, and thus of the contact bridge assembly 1, is determined by the switching state (i.e., open or closed) of the switching device 4.

[0051] The drive 12 is at least partially force-transmitting connected to the contact bridge arrangement 1. For this purpose, the contact bridge arrangement 1 has a mounting 14 for attachment to the drive 12. The mounting 14 can, for example, be designed as a connecting section 16 that can be positively, materially, and / or force-fit connected to a connecting element 18 of the drive 12. In particular, the mounting 14 can be implemented as a receiving hole 20 into which the connecting element 18 of the drive 12 is welded, soldered, riveted, riveted, or otherwise fastened. Alternatively, the mounting 14 itself can be implemented as a connecting element, for example, a rivet (not shown).

[0052] To connect the stationary fixed contacts 6, the contact bridge arrangement 1 has an electrically conductive contact bridge 22, which is spaced apart from the holder 14 in the switching direction 10 and is movable relative to the holder 14. The contact bridge 22 can have a bridge element 24 and at least two switching contacts 26. The switching contacts 26 can be arranged in pairs spaced apart from each other transversely to the switching direction 10 on the bridge element 24. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the bridge element 24 can be an elongated flat bar 28 extending transversely to the switching direction 10 along a longitudinal direction 30. The switching contacts 26 can be spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction 30. In particular, the switching contacts 26 can be arranged at different ends 32a, 32b of the bridge element 24. Fig. 8 and Fig. Figure 9 shows contact bridges 22 with Y-shaped bridge elements 24, each of which has three switching contacts 26. The switching contacts 26 are also arranged at different ends 32a, 32b, 32c of the bridge element 24.

[0053] Each switching contact 26 of the contact bridge 22 can be configured to contact one of the stationary fixed contacts 6 of the switching device 4. This connects the fixed contacts 6 to each other. The switching contacts 26 and fixed contacts 6 are identical in number, size, and position. Alternatively, a bare bridge element (not shown) without switching contacts can also directly contact and connect the fixed contacts 6 to each other.

[0054] For force transmission from the holder 14 to the contact bridge 22 and vice versa, the contact bridge arrangement 1 has an overtravel spring 34, which is arranged between the holder 14 and the contact bridge 22 and is designed to be compressible in the switching direction 10. The overtravel spring 34 can, for example, be a leaf spring 36, which is stamped and / or bent from a flat spring element made of spring steel.

[0055] In Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 shows two positions 38, 40, which have the contact bridge arrangement 1:

[0056] Fig. Figure 2 shows an initial position 38 in which the contact bridge 22 is furthest away from the holder 14. The initial position 38 is also in Fig. 8 shown.

[0057] Fig. Figure 3 again shows an end position 40, in which the contact bridge 22 is closer to the holder 14. Consequently, the overtravel spring 34 is more compressed in the end position 40 than in the initial position 38. The end position 40 is also shown in Fig. 9 shown.

[0058] A comparison of Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 reveals that the contact bridge 22 in the end position 40 is displaced relative to the holder 14 transversely to the switching direction 10 compared to the initial position 38. This transverse displacement 42 of the contact bridge 22, i.e., the relative displacement between the contact bridge 22 and the holder 14 transversely to the switching direction 10, is indicated by the reference lines 44a, 44b and is explained in more detail below.

[0059] Since the overtravel spring 34 is arranged between the holder 14 and the contact bridge 22, the overtravel spring 34 can transmit a switching force 46, which is received by the holder 14 and acts in the switching direction 10 (see Fig. 6 and Fig. 7) of the drive 12 to the contact bridge 22. In addition, the overtravel spring 34 can absorb reactive contact forces 48 acting against the switching direction 10, which are received by the contact bridge 22 (see Fig. 7) transfer the stationary fixed contacts 6 to the holder 14.

[0060] A simultaneous occurrence of the switching force 46 and the contact forces 48, as is the case in Fig. As indicated in Figure 7, the overtravel spring 34 compresses or expands. When the overtravel spring 34 compresses or expands, its extension 50 in the switching direction 10 decreases, while the spring pressure 52 simultaneously increases. Furthermore, the compression or expansion of the overtravel spring 34 causes a kind of compensating movement 54 of the contact bridge 22 transversely, in particular perpendicular to the switching direction 10. In other words, the overtravel spring 34 converts a portion of the spring pressure 52, or a portion of the switching force 46 and the contact forces 48, into a laterally acting compensating force 56, which causes the transverse displacement 42 of the contact bridge 22.

[0061] According to this operating principle, when the switching force 46 of the drive 12 is applied to close the switching device 4, the contact bridge arrangement 1 can automatically move from the initial position 38 to the final position 40. The resulting lateral displacement 42 of the contact bridge 22 allows a relative movement between the contact bridge 22 and the fixed contacts 6 to occur. Due to this relative movement, contact surfaces 58 between the contact bridge 22 and the fixed contacts 6 rub against each other. In this way, dirt and / or oxide layers are removed from the respective contact surfaces 58. Consequently, each closing of the switching device 4 cleans the contact surfaces 58.

[0062] As in Fig. 2 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the overtravel spring 34 can extend at least partially transversely, in particular diagonally, to the switching direction 10. In other words, the overtravel spring 34 can have at least one section 62 that is inclined relative to the switching direction 10. The compression of the overtravel spring 34 then causes a tilting movement 60 of the inclined section 62, which in turn triggers the transverse displacement 42 or compensating movement 54 of the contact bridge 22. The direction of inclination of the overtravel spring 34 thus defines the direction of the transverse displacement 42 or compensating movement 54.

[0063] As also from Fig. 2 and Fig. As is clearly shown in Figure 3, the overtravel spring 34 can bear against the contact bridge 22 at at least two points 64a, 64b spaced apart from each other transversely to the switching direction 10. For example, the overtravel spring can extend from one end 32a of the bridge element 24 to the holder 14 and from the holder 14 to another end 32b of the bridge element 24. That is, the overtravel spring 34 can essentially have a V-shape. Accordingly, the overtravel spring 34 can have at least two sections 62a, 62b inclined relative to the switching direction 10. One inclined section 62a runs between one end 32a of the bridge element 24 and the holder 14, while the other inclined section 62b runs between the holder 14 and the other end 32b of the bridge element 24.

[0064] To nevertheless allow a one-sided lateral displacement 42 or compensating movement 56 of the contact bridge 22, the overtravel spring 34 can be fixed relative to the contact bridge at one point 64a and fixed relative to the contact bridge 22 at the other point 64b. The resulting displacement or immobility exists, in particular, transversely to the switching direction. Due to the immobility, one inclined section 62a can transmit its tilting movement 60 to the contact bridge 22, whereas the other inclined section 62b, due to the displacement, does not transmit its tilting movement.

[0065] In particular, the extension spring 34 can be fixed at one end 32a of the bridge element 24 and floatingly or slidably mounted at the other end 32b of the bridge element 24. For example, one bridge end 32a can be welded, soldered, stamped, or positively connected to the extension spring 34, and the other bridge end 32b can form a sliding bearing 66 with the extension spring 34. The latter bridge end 32b and the extension spring 34 each have a sliding bearing-forming section 68.

[0066] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the contact bridge arrangement 1 can optionally include a cage 70 that guides the contact bridge 22. In particular, the cage 70 can guide the contact bridge 22 transversely to the switching direction 10 during the aforementioned lateral displacement 42 or compensating movement 54. Furthermore, the cage 70 can guide the contact bridge 22 parallel to the switching direction. Additionally, the cage 70 can pre-tension the overtravel spring 34. In other words, the cage 70 always keeps the contact bridge 22 at a distance from the holder 14, so that the overtravel spring 34, arranged between the contact bridge 22 and the holder 14, cannot extend to its untensioned length.

[0067] The previously mentioned connecting section 16, in particular the receiving hole 20, can be formed by the overtravel spring 34 and / or the cage 70.

[0068] Under certain circumstances, it is advantageous to provide several contact bridges 22 in the switching device 4. The contact bridges 22 can be parallel to each other. Alternatively, the contact bridges 22 can be spaced apart from each other. Advantageously, the electric current is distributed across the contact bridges 22. In particular, when an excessive short-circuit current flows, the resulting repulsive forces can be minimized overall, since the repulsive forces are partially proportional to the square of the current.

[0069] For this reason, several contact bridge arrangements 1 can be combined to form the contact bridge bundle 2. The in Fig. 8 and Fig. The contact bridge bundle 2 shown in Figure 9 comprises a first contact bridge arrangement 1a and a second contact bridge arrangement 1b. In the first contact bridge arrangement 1a, a first extension spring 34a is arranged between a common holder 14 and a first contact bridge 22a. Similarly, in the second contact bridge arrangement 1b, a second extension spring 34b is arranged between the common holder 14 and a second contact bridge 22b. The first extension spring 34a is connected to the second extension spring 34b in a motion-transmitting manner.

[0070] Alternatively, only one overtravel spring 34 can be provided in the contact bridge bundle 2. Conversely, the contact bridge bundle 2 in the first contact bridge arrangement 1 can have a first holder (not shown) and a second holder (not shown). The first and second holders can then also be connected to each other in a motion-transmitting manner. In total, the contact bridge bundle 2 can therefore have two contact bridges, up to two overtravel springs, and up to two holders.

[0071] How a comparison of Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 9, in the end positions 40 of the first contact bridge arrangement 1a and the second contact bridge arrangement 1b, the respective contact bridges 22a and 22b can be displaced in opposite directions to each other compared to the initial positions 38. That is, the first contact bridge 22a is displaced relative to the common support 14, and the second contact bridge 22b is displaced in the opposite direction relative to the common support 14.

[0072] In Fig. Figure 9 shows that in the end positions 40 of the first contact bridge arrangement 1a and the second contact bridge arrangement 1b, the respective contact bridges 22a, 22b can abut each other at least partially, transversely to the switching direction 10. In other words, the transverse displacements 42 or compensating movements 54 of the contact bridges 22a, 22b can be limited by the respective other contact bridge 22b, 22a. In particular, the contact bridges 22a, 22b can be nested within each other, such that after the transverse displacements 42 or compensating movements 54 they abut each other at at least one point 72.

[0073] Alternatively or additionally, the switching device 4 can have a stop (not shown) against which at least one contact bridge abuts in the closed position, transversely to the switching direction. The stop thus limits the lateral displacement or compensating movement of the abutting contact bridge. For example, the housing of the switching device can form the stop. In particular, the housing can have a contact chamber in which the contact bridge arrangement or the contact bridge bundle is arranged. An inner wall of the contact chamber can then form the stop. Preferably, the switching device has such a stop for each contact bridge.

[0074] The Fig. Figures 5 to 7 each show different positions 74, 76, 78 of the switching device 4: In Fig. Figure 5 shows the switching device 4 in its open position 74, with the contact bridge arrangement 1 in its initial position 38 and its contact bridge 22 spaced from the stationary fixed contacts 6 in the switching direction 10. The circuit in which the switching device 4 is installed would thus be open. The open position 74 is also shown in Fig. 8 shown.

[0075] In Fig. Figure 6 shows the switching device 4 in its arrival position 76, with the contact bridge arrangement 1 in its initial position 38 and its contact bridge 22 resting force-free against the stationary fixed contacts 6. The arrival position 76 thus represents the state of the closing switching device 4, in which the previously spaced contact bridge 22 has just reached the fixed contacts, but no reactive contact forces 48 have yet been established. Likewise, the arrival position 76 can represent the state of the opening switching device 4, in which the contact bridge 22 is about to separate from the contacted fixed contacts 6.

[0076] Finally, it shows Fig. 7 the closed position 78 of the switching device 4, in which the contact bridge arrangement 1 is in its end position 40, its contact bridge 22 being advanced transversely to the switching direction 10 compared to the arrival position 76. The closed position 78 thus represents the state of the closed switching device 4, in which the contact bridge 22 electrically contacts the fixed contacts 6 under the influence of the switching force 46 and contact forces 48. The closed position 78 is also in Fig. 9 shown.

[0077] As in Fig. As also shown in Figure 9, the switching device 4 can have a locking structure 80 configured to block at least one contact bridge 22 in the closed position 78 against the switching direction 10. The locking structure 80 can be provided by a contact surface 82 pointing in the switching direction 10 (see Figure 9). Fig. 8) of the housing 8. Due to the lateral displacement 42 or compensating movement 54, the contact bridge 22 to be blocked slides behind the support surface 82 like a latch. In other words, in the closed position 78, the contact bridge 22 moves onto the support surface 82. Thus, the locking structure 80 prevents the blocked contact bridge 22 from moving against the switching direction 10. In particular, the locking structure can absorb the aforementioned short-circuit-induced repulsive forces and thereby prevent the contact bridge 22 from being repelled by the fixed contacts 6.

[0078] The locking structure 80 does not impede the proper opening of the switching device 4, during which the drive 12 is switched off. This is because switching off the drive 12 eliminates the switching force 46. With the switching force 46 now absent, the overtravel spring 34 is no longer compressed. Consequently, the lateral displacement 42 or compensating movement 54 of the contact bridge 22 is also eliminated, and the contact bridge 22, previously blocked by the locking structure 80, retracts from behind the support surface 82 like a latch.

[0079] For reasons of positional stability, it is advantageous if the locking structure 80 blocks the at least one contact bridge 22 transversely to the switching direction 10 on at least two sides. For this purpose, the locking structure 80 can be present on both sides of the contact bridge arrangement 1 or the contact bridge bundle 2. For example, the locking structure 80 can be formed by at least two contact surfaces 82a, 82b, which are arranged opposite each other transversely to the switching direction 10.

[0080] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 9, in the closed position 78, the first contact bridge 22a moves onto one support surface 82a, and the second contact bridge 22b moves onto the other support surface 82b. If only one contact bridge 22 is present, the sliding bearing section 68 of the overtravel spring 34, described above, can move onto the other support surface 82b. In other words, at least one overtravel spring 34 can engage the catch structure 80 in the closed position 78. For this purpose, the overtravel spring 34, in particular its sliding bearing section 68, can project beyond the associated contact bridge 22 transversely to the switching direction 10 and reach up to the catch structure 80, at least in the closed position 78. Reference sign 1, 1a, 1b Contact bridge arrangement 2 contact bridge bundles 4 Switching device 6 fixed contacts 8 cases 10 Switching direction 12 Drive 14 bracket 16 Connecting section 18 Connecting element 20 recording holes 22, 22a, 22b Contact bridge 24 bridge elements 26 Switching contact 28 flat bars 30 Longitudinal direction 32a, 32b, 32c End 34, 34a, 34b Overtravel spring 36 leaf spring 38 Starting position 40 End position 42 Lateral displacement 44a, 44b Reference line 46 switching force 48 contact force 50 expansion 52 spring pressure 54 Compensatory movement 56 Balancing force 58 contact area 60 tilting movement Sections 62, 62a, 62b 64a, 64b position 66 plain bearings Section 68 70 cage 72nd place 74 Open position 76 Arrival position 78 Closing position 80 Catch structure 82, 82a, 82b Support surface

Claims

[1] Contact bridge arrangement (1) for connecting stationary fixed contacts (6) of an electrical switching device (4), for example a contactor or relay, wherein the contact bridge arrangement (1) - a holder (14) for attaching the contact bridge assembly (1) to a drive (12) of the switching device (4), - an electrically conductive contact bridge (22) which is spaced apart from the holder (14) in a switching direction (10) and movable relative to the holder (14), and - a travel spring (34) which is arranged for force transmission between the holder (14) and the contact bridge (22) and is designed to be compressible in the switching direction (10), wherein the contact bridge arrangement (1) has an initial position (38) and an end position (40), wherein the travel spring (34) is compressed more strongly in the switching direction (10) in the end position (40) than in the initial position (38) and wherein the contact bridge (22) is displaced in the end position (40) compared to the initial position (38) relative to the holder (14) transversely to the switching direction (10) by the travel spring (34). [2] Contact bridge arrangement (1) according to claim 1, wherein the contact bridge arrangement (1) has a cage (70) which guides the contact bridge (22). [3] Contact bridge arrangement (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the overtravel spring (34) extends at least sectionally transversely to the switching direction (10). [4] Contact bridge arrangement (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the overtravel spring (34) is designed as a leaf spring (36). [5] Contact bridge arrangement (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the overtravel spring (34) is located at two points (64a, 64b) spaced apart from each other transversely to the switching direction (10) on the contact bridge (22). [6] Contact bridge arrangement (1) according to claim 5, wherein the overtravel spring (34) is slidably attached at one of the two locations (64a) relative to the contact bridge (22) and is immovably attached at the other of the two locations (64b) relative to the contact bridge (22). [7] Contact bridge bundle (2) comprising a first contact bridge arrangement (1, 1a) according to any one of claims 1 to 6 and a second contact bridge arrangement (1, 1b) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the overtravel spring (34, 34a) of the first contact bridge arrangement (1, 1a) is connected to the overtravel spring (34, 34b) of the second contact bridge arrangement (1, 1b) in a movement-transmitting manner. [8] Contact bridge bundle (2) according to claim 7, wherein in the end positions (40) of the first contact bridge arrangement (1, 1a) and the second contact bridge arrangement (1, 1b) the respective contact bridges (22, 22a, 22b) are displaced in opposite directions to each other compared with the initial positions (38). [9] Contact bridge bundle (2) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein in the end positions (40) of the first contact bridge arrangement (1, 1a) and the second contact bridge arrangement (1, 1b) the respective contact bridges (22, 22a, 22b) are at least partially in contact with each other transversely to the switching direction (10). [10] Contact bridge bundle (2) according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the contact bridges (22, 22a, 22b) of the first and second contact bridge arrangement (1) have identical bridge elements (24) to which switching contacts (26) are attached in different positions. [11] Contact bridge bundle (2) according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the contact bridge (22) of the first contact bridge arrangement (1) is at least partially made of a different material than the contact bridge (22) of the second contact bridge arrangement (1). [12] Switching device (4), for example contactor or relay with a contact bridge arrangement (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6 or a contact bridge bundle (2) according to one of claims 7 to 11, as well as with an actuator (12) and at least two stationary fixed contacts (6), wherein each contact bridge arrangement (1, 1a, 1b) is attached to the actuator (12) via its holder (14), wherein the switching device (4) has an open position (74), an arrival position (76) and a closed position (78), wherein - in the open position (74) each contact bridge arrangement (1) is in its initial position (38) and its contact bridge (22) is spaced apart from the stationary fixed contacts (6) in the switching direction (10), - in the arrival position (76) at least one contact bridge arrangement (1) is in its initial position (38) and its contact bridge (22) rests force-free against the stationary fixed contacts (6), and - in the closed position (78) each contact bridge arrangement (1) is in its end position (40) and its contact bridge (22) is advanced transversely to the switching direction (10) compared to the arrival position (76). [13] Switching device (4) according to claim 12, wherein the switching device (4) has a stop against which at least one contact bridge (22, 22a, 22b) abuts in the closed position (78) transversely to the switching direction (10). [14] Switching device (4) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the switching device (4) has a catch structure (80) configured to block at least one contact bridge (22, 22a, 22b) in the closed position (78) against the switching direction (10). [15] Switching device (4) according to claim 14, wherein at least one overtravel spring (34) engages in the catch structure (80) in the closed position (78).

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