SWITCHING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A SWITCHING DEVICE

Abstract

A switching device (10) comprises a first terminal contact (11), a second terminal contact (12), a connecting conductor (13), a first movable contact (14), a second movable contact (15), and a contact carrier (16). The switching device (10) includes a current path formed by the first terminal contact (11), the first movable contact (14), the connecting conductor (13), the second movable contact (15), and the second terminal contact (12). The switching device (10) is designed to establish and interrupt the current path at four contact points in series with the linear movement of the first and second movable contacts (14, 15). Furthermore, a method for operating a switching device (10) is disclosed.

Description

[0001] The disclosure relates to a switching device and a method for operating a switching device.

[0002] Document US 8,350,168 B2 describes a modular quadruple circuit breaker comprising at least four contact pairs. Each contact pair includes a fixed contact positioned relative to a corresponding moving contact. The moving contacts are fixed to a rotating element coupled to a drive element. Rotating the drive element separates all four contact pairs, opening an electrical circuit. Arcing can cause differential wear of the material on the four moving contacts and the four fixed contacts.

[0003] The aim is to provide a switching device and a method for operating a switching device with a simple movement of the moving parts.

[0004] This objective is achieved through the subject matter of the independent claims. Further developments and embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0005] In one embodiment, a switching device comprises a first terminal contact, a connecting conductor, a second terminal contact, a first movable contact, a second movable contact and a contact carrier.

[0006] The switching device comprises a current path formed by the first terminal contact, the first movable contact, the connecting conductor, the second movable contact, and the second terminal contact. The switching device is designed to establish and break the current path at four contact points in series with a linear movement of the first movable contact and the second movable contact.

[0007] Advantageously, a linear movement of the first and second movable contacts is easier to achieve compared to a rotary movement. A linear movement of the first and second movable contacts to move the switching device from an on state to an off state has the opposite direction to a linear movement of the first and second movable contacts to move the switching device from an off state to an on state. Current flows from the first terminal contact, through the first movable contact, the connecting conductor, and the second movable contact, to the second terminal contact. The current flows in this sequence of parts.

[0008] In one embodiment of the switching device, the contact carrier is coupled to the first movable contact and to the second movable contact.

[0009] In one embodiment, the contact carrier is stationary. The contact carrier is not movable. The linear movement of the first movable contact and the second movable contact is guided by the contact carrier, but not caused by the contact carrier.

[0010] In an alternative embodiment, the contact carrier is movable. A linear movement of the contact carrier causes the linear movement of the first movable contact and the linear movement of the second movable contact.

[0011] In one embodiment, the switching device further comprises a contact carrier pin. The contact carrier pin is guided through the contact carrier. The contact carrier pin is loosely connected to the first movable contact and loosely connected to the second movable contact. In an energized state of the switching device, the first terminal contact is in electrical contact with the connecting conductor via the first movable contact, and the connecting conductor is in electrical contact with the second terminal contact via the second movable contact.

[0012] In one embodiment of the switching device, a current path is formed through the first terminal contact, the first movable contact, the connecting conductor, the second movable contact, and the second terminal contact. The switching device is configured to establish and break the current path at four contact points in series. The switching device is capable of establishing and breaking the current with the movement of the contact carrier through the product mechanism. Advantageously, the switching device features an improved current path.

[0013] In one example, the current path formed by the elements mentioned above is capable of closing and opening the current path at four contact points in series, and is referred to here as a quad-break contact system. Breaking the current path at four points significantly distributes the system voltage across each contact and break point, thus improving the switching and breaking performance of each contact point. Therefore, the overall lifetime and breaking performance of the product with the quad-break contact system are higher, as each contact point has to dissipate a significantly lower let-through energy due to the reduced voltage at individual points.

[0014] Advantageously, the loose connection of the contact carrier pin to the first and second movable contacts provides flexibility for both. This allows the first and second movable contacts to be moved to establish good mechanical contact and, consequently, good electrical contact with the first terminal contact, the connecting conductor, and the second terminal contact.

[0015] In one embodiment of the switching device, a contact system of the switching device comprises the first and second terminal contacts, the connecting conductor, the first and second movable contacts, the contact carrier, and the contact carrier pin. The contact system is designed for linear contact movement with flexibility in the first and second movable contacts independently of each other to compensate for electrical contact wear during the product's lifetime under normal operating conditions and abnormal fault conditions. Furthermore, the first and second movable contacts have a degree of freedom in rotation along the contact carrier pin.

[0016] In one embodiment of the switching device, when the switching device is switched off, the first terminal contact is free from electrical contact to the connecting conductor and the connecting conductor is free from electrical contact to the second terminal contact.

[0017] In one embodiment of the switching device, the first and second movable contacts perform a linear movement during a transition from the switched-on state to the switched-off state of the switching device, in order to establish a distance between the first movable contact and the first terminal contact and the connecting conductor, and a distance between the second movable contact and the second terminal contact and the connecting conductor. This movement can be described as a displacement.

[0018] In one embodiment of the switching device, the first movable contact is designed such that, when the switching device is switched on, it closes an electrical contact between the first terminal contact and the connecting conductor, and opens the electrical contact between the first terminal contact and the connecting conductor to achieve the switched-off state of the switching device. The second movable contact is designed such that, when the switching device is switched on, it closes an electrical contact between the connecting conductor and the second terminal contact, and opens the electrical contact between the connecting conductor and the second terminal contact to achieve the switched-off state of the switching device.

[0019] In one embodiment of the switching device, both the first movable contact and the second movable contact are U-shaped. The underside of the U-shape of the first movable contact is aligned with the underside of the U-shape of the second movable contact. This U-shape can be referred to as the U-outline.

[0020] In one embodiment of the switching device, the first terminal contact comprises a U-shape and the second terminal contact also comprises a U-shape. One end of the U-shape of the first terminal contact is aligned with one end of the U-shape of the second terminal contact.

[0021] In one embodiment of the switching device, both the first movable contact and the second movable contact comprise the U-shape and / or both the first terminal contact and the second terminal contact comprise the U-shape.

[0022] In one embodiment, the switching device comprises a first and a second contact spring, with at least one spring on each side. The contact carrier is coupled to the first movable contact via the first contact spring and to the second movable contact via the second contact spring. A larger number of parallel spring arrangements or a coaxial arrangement of the springs is also possible in the conceptual design.

[0023] In one embodiment of the switching device, the contact carrier pin is inserted into a first opening of the first movable contact and into a second opening of the second movable contact. Only the ends of the contact carrier pin are inserted into the first and second openings.

[0024] In one embodiment of the switching device, the contact carrier pin comprises a central section designed as an electrical insulator. Furthermore, the contact carrier pin includes a first and a second end piece, which are, for example, made of metal. The first and second end pieces can be cast onto the central section or designed as independent components. The electrical insulator is, for example, a polymer or a ceramic. For example, the first end piece is arranged in the first opening of the first movable contact, and the second end piece is arranged in the second opening of the second movable contact.

[0025] In an alternative embodiment of the switching device, the contact carrier pin is designed as an electrically insulating component. For example, the contact carrier pin consists entirely of an electrically insulating material. The electrical insulator is, for example, a polymer or a ceramic.

[0026] In one embodiment of the switching device, the contact carrier pin has a main axis. The first movable contact is rotatable about the main axis. The second movable contact is rotatable about the main axis. In one example, a rotation of the first movable contact is independent of a rotation of the second movable contact. In another example, the first movable contact is rotatable about the main axis by an angle in the range between -30° and +30°, such that the rotation is sufficient to compensate for the overflow of the contact tips or more than the erosion of the contact tips of the first terminal contact, the first movable contact, and the connecting conductor. The aforementioned angle of rotation is only an example and not a limiting value.Accordingly, the second movable contact can be rotated around the main axis by an angle between -30° and +30°, such that the rotation is sufficient to compensate for the overflow of the contact tips or more than the erosion of the contact tips of the second terminal contact, the second movable contact, and the connecting conductor. The aforementioned rotation angle is only an example and not a limit value.

[0027] In one embodiment of the switching device, the contact carrier pin has the form of a first cylinder and a second cylinder oriented perpendicular to the first cylinder. The first cylinder has the main axis, and the second cylinder has a secondary axis. The first and second cylinders are fused together. The first cylinder is guided through openings in the contact carrier. The second cylinder is guided through further openings in the contact carrier. In one example, the length of the first cylinder is greater than the length of the second cylinder. The main axis is aligned with the first movable contact and the second movable contact. The secondary axis is perpendicular to the main axis.In one example, the contact carrier pin is rotatable around its axis by an angle between -30° and +30°, such that the rotation is sufficient to compensate for the overflow of the contact tips or more than the erosion of the contact tips of the fixed and moving contacts. The mentioned rotation angle is only an example and not a limiting value.

[0028] In one example, the first cylinder has the shape of a right circular cylinder or a right elliptical cylinder.

[0029] In one example, the second cylinder has the shape of a right circular cylinder or a right elliptical cylinder.

[0030] In one embodiment, the switching device comprises a contact bridge spring which is arranged between the contact carrier pin and a lower part of the contact carrier.

[0031] In one embodiment, the switching device comprises - a first fixed contact located at the first terminal contact, - a second and a third fixed contact, both of which are located on the connecting conductor, - a fourth fixed contact located at the second terminal contact, - a first and a second movable contact, both of which are arranged on the first movable contact, and - a third and a fourth movable contact, both of which are arranged on the second movable contact.

[0032] In one embodiment of the switching device, the first, second, third, and fourth fixed contacts are located on a first plane. The first, second, third, and fourth movable contacts are located on a second plane. The first plane is parallel to the second plane. In the off state of the switching device, the second plane is spaced apart from the first plane. In the on state of the switching device, the distance between the second plane and the first plane is reduced (e.g., the distance is zero or has a small value), so that the first, second, third, and fourth movable contacts are in mechanical and electrical contact with the first, second, third, and fourth fixed contacts.

[0033] In one embodiment of the switching device, the first and second terminal contacts are located on a first imaginary line. The connecting conductor is located on a second imaginary line. The first imaginary line runs parallel to the second imaginary line. The first imaginary line has a distance D from the second imaginary line, where D > 0, D ≥ 3 mm, or D ≥ 10 mm. Alternatively, the distance D is in the range of 50 mm ≥ D ≥ 0 mm, 50 mm ≥ D ≥ 3 mm, or 30 mm ≥ D ≥ 10 mm.

[0034] In one embodiment of the switching device, the first terminal contact comprises a U-shape and the second terminal contact also comprises a U-shape. A lower surface of the U-shape of the first terminal contact is aligned with a lower surface of the U-shape of the second terminal contact.

[0035] In one embodiment of the switching device, the first terminal contact comprises a first elongated strut. The second terminal contact comprises a second elongated strut. The first terminal contact does not, for example, have a U-shape. The second terminal contact does not, for example, have a U-shape.

[0036] In one embodiment, the switching device is implemented as a group consisting of a circuit breaker, a motor protection switch (MPCB), a compact circuit breaker (MCCB), a disconnect switch (SD), and a contactor.

[0037] In one embodiment, the switching device comprises a magnetic drive assembly with an electrical coil, a magnetic core, and an armature. The armature is movable and coupled or connected to the contact carrier or the contact carrier pin. Thus, a current flowing through the coil moves the armature and therefore the contact carrier. For example, the switching device is designed as a contactor. In the contactor, a coil drive moves the contact carrier (if the contact carrier is movable) or the contact carrier pin (if the contact carrier is not movable).

[0038] In one embodiment, the switching device comprises a mechanism designed to store energy by means of one or more mechanism springs. The mechanism is designed to drive the first and second movable contacts from the off to the on state and from the on to the off or tripped state. The mechanism is connected or coupled to the first and second movable contacts. For example, the mechanism is connected to the contact carrier or the contact carrier pin. The mechanism drives the movement of the contact carrier such that actuation of the device mechanism, either manually or by an external motor-driven mechanism or a rotary actuation handle mechanism, results in movement of the contact carrier. The switching device is implemented, for example, as an MPCB, MCCB, or SD. In this configuration, the movement of the contact carrier is achieved by the mechanism, which incorporates stored energy via a mechanism spring arrangement.

[0039] In one embodiment, a method for operating a switching device comprises: - Performing a linear movement of a first and a second movable contact to establish an electrical contact of a first terminal contact with a connecting conductor via the first movable contact in an on-state of the switching device, and to establish an electrical contact of the connecting conductor with a second terminal contact via the second movable contact in the on-state of the switching device, - Performing a linear movement in the opposite direction of the first and second movable contacts to disconnect the first movable contact from the first terminal contact and the connecting conductor in an off state of the switching device and to disconnect the second movable contact from the connecting conductor and the second terminal contact in the off state of the switching device.

[0040] In one embodiment, the method further comprises holding the first movable contact and the second movable contact by a contact carrier and loosely connecting the first movable contact and the second movable contact by a contact carrier pin.

[0041] Advantageously, the contact carrier pin coordinates the movement of the first movable contact and the movement of the second movable contact, allowing for flexibility in these movements. The movement can be linear and / or rotational, involving both the first and second movable contacts. This movement can be described as a change in position.

[0042] The switching device described above is particularly suitable for the method of operating a switching device. The features described in connection with the switching device can therefore be used for the method, and vice versa.

[0043] Advantageously, when transitioning from an on-state to an off-state of the switching device, four movable contacts are separated from four fixed contacts.

[0044] The switching device is designed to interrupt the current flowing between the first and second terminal contacts four times. This creates four arcs, which are easier to extinguish compared to two or one arc.

[0045] In one example, the switching device implements a quadruple break contact system.

[0046] In one example, a circuit breaker, MPCB, or MCCB is a protective device against various types of faults, such as overload, short circuit, phase imbalance, and loss. For any circuit breaker device, however, the highest short-circuit breaking capacity at minimum let-through energy is the most critical performance. For double-break devices, there is a limit to achieving high short-circuit and electrical power ratings. The application voltage requirements for AC and DC applications are increasing due to the adoption of renewable energy, electric vehicles, hybrid grid structures, and / or energy storage applications.

[0047] In one example, the switching device achieves higher short-circuit performance with an electromagnetic device for AC and DC applications. The switching device is designed as a quadruple breaker arrangement. The switching device can be manufactured using a platform approach. It is possible to implement a double breaker and a quadruple breaker contact system on the same or on independent product platforms. With only a few additional components, the platform can be developed, including the use of the same accessories, to realize a wide range of devices. Product performance such as let-through energy, electrical lifetime, and adaptability are also improved with a quadruple breaker contact system. The quadruple breaker contact system makes the products better suited for DC applications in addition to AC applications.In addition to short-circuit withstand capability, electrical lifetime and overload resistance are also improved. The newly proposed switching device with a quadruple break contact system interrupts alternating or direct current more effectively. Electromechanical devices are more cost-effective and compact than currently used semiconductor devices, since a double break contact system is often unable to effectively interrupt high alternating and direct currents.

[0048] The following description of the figures of embodiments is intended to further illustrate and explain aspects of the switching device and the method for operating the switching device. Parts and components with the same structure and the same function are identified by equivalent reference numerals. Where parts and components correspond in function to one another in different figures, their description is not repeated for each subsequent figure. The Fig. 1A to 1K show an example of a switching device; The Fig. Figures 2A to 2C show details of a switching device; and The Fig. 3A to 3J show another example of a switching device.

[0049] Fig. Figure 1A shows an example of a switching device 10. The switching device 10 comprises a first terminal contact 11, a second terminal contact 12, and a connecting conductor 13. Furthermore, the switching device 10 comprises a first movable contact 14, a second movable contact 15, and a contact carrier 16. The connecting conductor 13 is, for example, designed as a metal rod. For example, the connecting conductor 13 is fixed. For example, the connecting conductor 13 is not movable.

[0050] Additionally, the switching device 10 includes a contact carrier pin 17, which is guided by the contact carrier 16. The contact carrier pin 17 is connected or loosely connected to the first movable contact 14 and the second movable contact 15. The contact carrier pin 17 is coupled to the first movable contact 14 and the second movable contact 15. The first movable contact 14 is designed to perform a (e.g., small) movement relative to the contact carrier pin 17. The second movable contact 15 is designed to perform a (e.g., small) movement relative to the contact carrier pin 17. The movements are, for example, rotary movements, as in the Fig. 2A to 2C shown.

[0051] The switching device 10 comprises a contact bridge spring 23, which is arranged between the contact carrier pin 17 and a lower part of the contact carrier 16. The contact carrier 16 has the shape of a “T”.

[0052] The first and second movable contacts 14, 15 can be referred to as the first and second movable contact bridge or as the first and second movable contacts. The contact carrier pin 17 can be referred to as the movable contact bridge pin or movable contact carrier pin. For example, the first terminal contact 11 is connected to a line and the second terminal contact 12 to a load.

[0053] The first and second terminal contacts 11, 12 are located on a first imaginary line 53. The connecting conductor 13 is located on a second imaginary line 54. The first imaginary line 53 runs parallel to the second imaginary line 54. The first imaginary line 53 has a distance D from the second imaginary line 54, where D > 0.

[0054] The first terminal contact 11 has a U-shape, and the second terminal contact 12 also has a U-shape. One underside of the U-shape of the first terminal contact 11 is aligned with one underside of the U-shape of the second terminal contact 12.

[0055] The U-shape of the first terminal contact 11 has a first arm, a second arm, and a curved section connecting the first and second arms. The first fixed contact 31 is located on the first arm of the U-shape of the first terminal contact 11. The U-shape of the second terminal contact 12 has a first arm, a second arm, and a curved section connecting the first and second arms. The fourth fixed contact 34 is located on the first arm of the U-shape of the second terminal contact 12. The curved section of the first terminal contact 11 is aligned with the curved section of the second terminal contact 12. The distance between the curved section of the first terminal contact 11 and the curved section of the second terminal contact 12 is less than the distance between the first fixed contact 31 and the fourth fixed contact 34.

[0056] The switching device 11 is designed, for example, as a circuit breaker.

[0057] A method for operating the switching device 10 comprises - Establishing an electrical contact between the first terminal contact 11 and the connecting conductor 13 via the first movable contact 14 in the switched-on state of the switching device 10, - Establishing an electrical contact between the connecting conductor 13 and the second terminal contact 12 via the second movable contact 15 in the switched-on state of the switching device 10, - Disconnecting the first movable contact 14 from the first connecting contact 11 and the connecting conductor 13 in the switched-off state of the switching device 10, and - Disconnecting the second movable contact 15 from the connecting conductor 13 and from the second terminal contact 12 in the switched-off state of the switching device 10.

[0058] When the switching device 10 is switched on, the first terminal contact 11 is in electrical contact with the connecting conductor 13 via the first movable contact 14, and the connecting cable 13 is in electrical contact with the second terminal contact 12 via the second movable contact 15.

[0059] In the switched-off state of the switching device 10, the first terminal contact 11 is free of electrical contact to the connecting conductor 13 and the connecting conductor 13 is free of electrical contact to the second terminal contact 12.

[0060] When the switching device 10 is switched off, the first movable contact 14 opens the electrical contact between the first terminal contact 11 and the connecting conductor 13, and the second movable contact 15 opens the electrical contact between the connecting conductor 13 and the second terminal contact 12.

[0061] Furthermore, the first movable contact 14 and the second movable contact 15 are held by the contact carrier 16. The contact carrier pin 17 loosely connects the first movable contact 14 to the second movable contact 15.

[0062] The switching device 10 implements a quadruple break contact system for a circuit breaker, MPCB, MCCB, SD, or contactor. The switching device 10 achieves high short-circuit breaking capacity and a significant reduction in peak fault current, arc extinguishing time, and let-through energy. This also contributes to reducing product dimensions and material consumption.

[0063] Fig. Figure 1B shows an example of a switching device 10, which is a further development of the one described in Fig. The embodiment shown in 1A is represented. Fig. 1A and Fig. Figure 1B shows a three-dimensional view of the switching device 10. In the Fig. 1A, Fig. 1B, Fig. 1E and Fig. In 1F, the switching device 10 is in the switched-on state. Current flow is indicated by arrows. The switching device 10 is designed to operate with alternating and direct currents flowing through the first and second terminal contacts 11 and 12, respectively. In this example, a current flowing through the first terminal contact 11 is an incoming current, and a current flowing through the second terminal contact 12 is an outgoing current. The switching device 10 is in the switched-on state. Thus, the contact carrier pin 17, the first movable contact 14, and the second movable contact 15 are in an "upper" position relative to the contact carrier 16. Further movement of the contact carrier pin 17 is blocked by the end of an opening in the contact carrier 16. The contact carrier pin 17 can slide within the opening of the contact carrier 16 up to this end of the opening.

[0064] The Fig. 1C and Fig. Figure 1D shows an example of details of a switching device 10, which is a further development of the one described in the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B represents the embodiments shown. Fig. Figure 1C shows a three-dimensional view of the contact carrier 16 and the first and second movable contacts 14, 15, etc. Fig. Figure 1D shows a top view of these parts. The first and second movable contacts 14, 15 are U-shaped. The switching device 10 comprises a first and a second movable contact 41, 42, which are arranged on the first movable contact 14, and a third and a fourth movable contact 43, 44, which are arranged on the second movable contact 15. Optionally, the contact carrier 16 has an opening 63, as shown in the Fig. 1C and Fig. Shown in 1D.

[0065] In one example, a mechanism is designed to move the contact carrier pin 17 through the opening 63. The mechanism is operated from above. Alternatively, the contact carrier pin 17 is moved by a movement of the contact carrier 16.

[0066] Furthermore, the switching device 10 comprises a first contact spring 21 and a second contact spring 22. The contact carrier 16 is coupled to the first movable contact 14 via the first contact spring 21 and to the second movable contact 15 via the second contact spring 22.

[0067] The Fig. 1E and Fig. Figure 1F shows an example of a switching device 10, which is a further development of the one described in the Fig. The embodiments shown in 1A to 1D represent the following. Fig. 1E and Fig. Figure 1F shows a front view of the switching device 10 in the switched-on state. The switching device 10 comprises a first set of quenching chamber plates 55a, 55b and a second set of quenching chamber plates 56a, 55b ( Fig. 1E). The first set of extinguishing chamber plates comprises a first stack of extinguishing chamber plates 55a and a second stack of extinguishing chamber plates 55b. The first stack and the second stack are electrically insulated from each other. The second set of extinguishing chamber plates comprises a third stack of extinguishing chamber plates 56a and a fourth stack of extinguishing chamber plates 56b. The third stack and the fourth stack are electrically insulated from each other and from the first and second stacks. The switching device 10 comprises a first extinguishing chamber housing 57, which covers the first set of extinguishing chamber plates 55a, 55b, and a second extinguishing chamber housing 58, which covers the second set of extinguishing chamber plates 56a, 56b ( Fig. 1F). Thus, the switching device 10 comprises four stacks of quenching chamber plates, namely the first and second stacks of quenching chamber plates 55a, 55b for the first set of fixed and moving contacts 31, 32, 41, 42, and the third and fourth stacks of quenching chamber plates 56a, 56b for the second set of fixed and moving contacts 33, 34, 43, 44, since the quenching chamber plates are located at each of the four contact points of the quadruple break arrangement. The four stacks of quenching chamber plates 55a, 55b, 56a, 56b are independent of each other and insulated from each other.

[0068] Fig. 1G shows an example of a switching device 10, which is a further development of the one described in the Fig. Figures 1A to 1F represent embodiments. A top view of the switching device 10 is shown.

[0069] The Fig. 1H and Fig. Figure 1I shows an example of a switching device 10, which is a further development of the one described in the Fig. The embodiments shown in 1A to 1G represent the following. Fig. 1H and Fig. Figure 1I shows a front view and a three-dimensional view of the switching device 10 in the off state. Thus, the contact carrier pin 17, the first movable contact 14 and the second movable contact 15 are in a “lower” position relative to the contact carrier 16 compared to the position in the switched-on state of the switching device 10.

[0070] In the switched-off state of the switching device 10, the first terminal contact 11 is not in electrical contact with the connecting conductor 13, and the connecting conductor 13 is not in electrical contact with the second terminal contact 12. During a transition from the switched-on state of the switching device 10 to the switched-off state, the first and second movable contacts 14, 15 perform a linear movement to create a distance from the first movable contact 14 to the first terminal contact 11 and the connecting conductor 13, and a distance from the second movable contact 15 to the second terminal contact 12 and the connecting conductor 13.During the transition from the off state of the switching device 10 to the on state of the switching device 10, the first and second movable contacts 14, 15 perform a linear movement in opposite directions to close the gap between the first movable contact 14 and the first terminal contact 11 and the connecting conductor 13 and to close the gap between the second movable contact 15 and the second terminal contact 12 and the connecting conductor 13.

[0071] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1H, a mechanism moves the contact carrier 16 downwards to switch from the ON position to the OFF position. For example, the switching device 10 comprises a magnetic drive assembly with an electrical coil and an armature (not shown). The armature is movable and connected or coupled to the contact carrier 16 or the contact carrier pin 17. An arrow 59 indicates the direction of movement of the first and second movable contacts 14, 15. In position 60, the switching device 10 is in the ON state. In position 61, the switching device 10 is in the OFF state. The movements are an upward movement to achieve the ON state and a downward movement to achieve the OFF state of the switching device 10.

[0072] Black arrows indicate the flow of current through the different parts.

[0073] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the switching device 10 comprises a mechanism designed to store energy by means of at least one mechanism spring. The mechanism is designed to drive the first and second movable contacts 14, 15 from the off-state to the on-state and from the on-state to the off-state or tripped state. The mechanism is connected to the first and second movable contacts 14, 15 (e.g., via the contact carrier pin 17 or the contact carrier 16) and drives the movement of the first and second movable contacts 14, 15. Thus, actuation of the device mechanism, either manually or by an external motor-driven mechanism or a rotary actuation handle mechanism, causes the contact carrier 16 to move.For example, the switching device 10 is implemented as an MPCB, MCCB or SD; thus, the movement of the contact carrier 16 is carried out by the mechanism which has energy stored by a mechanism spring arrangement.

[0074] Fig. 1J shows an example of a switching device 10, which is a further development of the one described in the Fig. The embodiments shown in 1A to 1I represent the following. Fig. Figure 1J shows the switching device 10 in a so-called exploded view in three dimensions. The contact carrier pin 17 is inserted into a first opening 35 of the first movable contact 14 and into a second opening 36 of the second movable contact 15. The switching device 10 comprises a first fixed contact 31, which is arranged at the first terminal contact 11, a second and a third fixed contact 32, 33, both of which are arranged at the connecting conductor 13, and a fourth fixed contact 34, which is arranged at the second terminal contact 12.

[0075] The first, second, third, and fourth fixed contacts 31 to 34 are located on a first level 51, as for example in Fig. 1B can be seen. The first, second, third, and fourth movable contacts 41 to 44 are located on a second level 52, as in Fig. Figure 1C shows the first level 51 parallel to the second level 52. In the switched-off state of the switching device 10, the second level 52 is arranged at a distance from the first level 51. In the switched-on state of the switching device 10 (e.g., shown in Figure 1C), the second level 52 is arranged at a distance from the first level 51. Fig. 1B) the distance of the second level 52 to the first level 51 is reduced so that the first, second, third and fourth movable contacts 41 to 44 are in mechanical and / or electrical contact with the first, second, third and fourth fixed contacts 31 to 34.

[0076] The contact carrier pin 17 has the shape of a first cylinder 46 and a second cylinder 47, which is oriented perpendicular to the first cylinder 46. The first cylinder 46 is guided by two openings in the contact carrier 16. The second cylinder 47 is guided by two further openings in the contact carrier 16. One length of the first cylinder 46 is greater than one length of the second cylinder 47. The first cylinder 46 has the shape of a right circular cylinder or a right elliptical cylinder. The second cylinder 47 has the shape of a right circular cylinder or a right elliptical cylinder. The contact carrier 16 comprises a hollow cuboid (i.e., an internally hollow cuboid). The two openings are located on opposite sides of the hollow cuboid. The two further openings are located on two other sides of the hollow cuboid.

[0077] Fig. 1K shows an example of details of a switching device 10, which is a further development of the one described in the Fig. The embodiments shown in Figures 1A to 1J are represented. The contact carrier pin 17 comprises a central section 37, which is designed as an electrical insulator, and a first and a second end piece 38, 39, which are designed as metal parts. Since the central section 37 has plastic insulation, a short circuit between the first movable contact 14 and the second movable contact 15 is prevented. The contact carrier pin 17 is a connecting element between the first and the second movable contact 14, 15. The first end piece 38 is arranged in the first opening 35 and the second end piece 39 is arranged in the second opening 36. The central section 37 comprises the second cylinder 47 and a portion of the first cylinder 46. The first cylinder 46 is formed by the central section 37 and the first and second end pieces 38, 39.

[0078] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the contact carrier pin 17 is designed as an electrically insulating part.

[0079] The Fig. Figures 2A to 2C show details of a switching device 10, which is a further development of the one described in the Fig. The embodiments shown in Figures 1A to 1K are represented. The contact carrier pin 17 has a main axis 45. The first movable contact 14 is rotatable about the main axis 45. The second movable contact 15 is also rotatable about the main axis 45. A rotation of the first movable contact 14 is independent of a rotation of the second movable contact 15. The first cylinder 46 has the main axis 45. The second cylinder 47 has a further axis 48.

[0080] The rotation of the movable contacts along the contact carrier pin 17 compensates for contact wear on both movable contacts 14, 15. Each movable contact 14, 15 is rotatably mounted on the contact carrier pin 17.

[0081] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2C, the contact carrier pin 17 can be rotated about the further axis 48 by an angle in the range between -30° and +30°.

[0082] The first and second movable contacts 14, 15 are designed to rotate about the main axis 45. Additionally, the first and second movable contacts 14, 15, together with the contact carrier pin 17, are designed to rotate about the further axis 48. These rotations help to compensate for contact wear on the four movable contacts 41 to 44 and the four fixed contacts 31 to 34. The contact carrier pin 17 can be designed as a shaft.

[0083] The linear movement of the two independent double-break contact assemblies is used to achieve the quadruple-break contact arrangement. The movement of the contact assembly is linear, as it is driven by the existing mechanical arrangement. Any unevenness in contact wear is compensated for by the rotational movement of the individual independent movable contacts 14, 15, which are mounted on the contact carrier 16. The independent contact spring 23 controls the contact pressure and wear. An imbalance between a first set 41, 42 and a second set 43, 44 of movable contacts and a first set 31, 32 and a second set of fixed contacts 33, 34 is compensated for by the rotational device of the contact carrier pin 17 in the movable contact bridge system.

[0084] The Fig. Figures 3A to 3J show another example of a switching device 10, which is a further development of the one described in the Fig. The embodiments shown are those 1A to 1K and 2A to 2C. Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B, Fig. 3D and Fig. In position 3E, the switching device 10 is in the switched-on state. Fig. From 3F to 3H, the switching device 10 is in the off state.

[0085] The first terminal contact 11 comprises a first elongated ridge. The second terminal contact 12 comprises a second elongated ridge. The first terminal contact 11 does not have a U-shape. The second terminal contact 12 does not have a U-shape. The first and the second movable contacts 14, 15 are for the Fig. Designed for the movements shown in 2A to 2C.

[0086] The first and second movable contacts 14, 15 perform a linear movement to switch the switching device 10 from the on state to the off state. The direction of this linear movement is in Fig. 3D is indicated by arrow 59.

[0087] The switching device 10 implements a quadruple break contact system for a circuit breaker, MPCB, MCCB, SD, or contactor to achieve high short-circuit breaking capacity and a significant reduction in let-through energy. The switching device is product-compliant with IEC 60947-2, IEC 60947-3, or IEC 60947-4. The quadruple break contact system improves the performance of Icu—the ultimate short-circuit breaking capacity—and Ics—the rated breaking capacity of the circuit breaker. The implementation of the quadruple break contact helps achieve a short-circuit breaking capacity of Icu = 100% Ics. The quadruple break contact system also makes the switching device 10 more suitable for DC applications in addition to AC applications.

[0088] Electromechanical devices are far more cost-effective and compact than currently used semiconductor devices, as current dual-break contact systems are often unable to effectively handle DC quenching. Upgrading to quad-break improves the AC and DC performance of the switching device 10. A platform approach is feasible with the implementation of dual-break and quad-break contact systems. Different product requirements for AC and DC applications are not necessary.

[0089] The quadruple break contact and arc quenching system contributes to higher product performance during short circuits, extended electrical life, and overload capacity for AC and DC applications. Furthermore, the switching device uses the same linear motion for both the double and quadruple break contact systems, enabling platform adaptability. This allows the same accessories and product design platform to be used for both double and quadruple break applications.

[0090] The quadruple break contact system also contributes to achieving compact product dimensions. This reduces the environmental impact in terms of material and installation space.

[0091] The in the Fig.The embodiments shown in Figures 1A to 3J are exemplary embodiments of a switching device 10; therefore, they do not constitute a complete list of all embodiments of the switching device 10. Actual switching devices may differ from the illustrated embodiments, for example, with regard to parts, fixtures, and circuits. Reference sign 10 Switching device 11 first connection contact 12 second connection contact 13 connecting conductors 14 first moving contact 15 second movable contact 16 contact carriers 17 Contact carrier pin 21 first contact spring 22 second contact spring 23 Contact bridge spring 31-34 fixed contact 35 first opening 36 second opening 37 Middle section 38 first end piece 39 second end piece 41-44 movable contact 45 Main axis 46 first cylinder 47 second cylinder 48 more axles Levels 51 and 52 53, 54 imaginary line 55a, 55b, 56a, 56b Extinguishing chamber plates 57, 58 Extinguishing chamber housing 59 Arrow Position 60, 61 63 Opening QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 8,350,168 B2

[0002]

Claims

[1] A switching device (10) comprising - a first connection contact (11), - a second connection contact (12), - a connecting conductor (13), - a first movable contact (14), - a second movable contact (15) and - a contact carrier (16), wherein the switching device (10) comprises a current path formed by the first terminal contact (11), the first movable contact (14), the connecting conductor (13), the second movable contact (15) and the second terminal contact (12), and wherein the switching device (10) is configured to establish and interrupt the current path at four contact points in series with a linear movement of the first movable contact (14) and the second movable contact (15). [2] The switching device (10) according to claim 1, wherein in a switched-on state of the switching device (10) the first terminal contact (11) is in electrical contact with the connecting conductor (13) via the first movable contact (14) and the connecting conductor (13) is in electrical contact with the second terminal contact (12) via the second movable contact (15). [3] The switching device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, during the transition from an on-state of the switching device (10) to an off-state of the switching device (10), the first and the second movable contact (14, 15) perform the linear movement to create a distance from the first movable contact (14) to the first terminal contact (11) and the connecting conductor (13) and to create a distance from the second movable contact (15) to the second terminal contact (12) and the connecting conductor (13). [4] The switching device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first and the second movable contact (14, 15) both form a U-shape and an underside of the U-shape of the first movable contact (14) is aligned with the underside of the U-shape of the second movable contact (15), and / or wherein the first and second terminal contacts (11, 12) both form a U-shape and a bottom side of the U-shape of the first terminal contact (11) is aligned with the bottom side of the U-shape of the second terminal contact (12). [5] The switching device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the switching device (10) comprises a first contact spring (21) and a second contact spring (22), and wherein the contact carrier (16) is coupled to the first movable contact (14) via the first contact spring (21) and to the second movable contact (15) via the second contact spring (22). [6] The switching device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the switching device (10) further comprises a contact carrier pin (17) which is guided by the contact carrier (16) and is loosely connected to the first movable contact (14) and loosely to the second movable contact (15). [7] The switching device (10) according to claim 6, wherein the contact carrier pin (17) is inserted into a first opening (35) of the first movable contact (14) and into a second opening (36) of the second movable contact (15). [8] The switching device (10) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the contact carrier pin (17) comprises a central part (37) which is designed as an electrical insulator and a first and a second end part (38, 39) which are designed as metal parts. [9] The switching device (10) according to one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the contact carrier pin (17) has a main axis (45), wherein the first movable contact (14) is rotatable about the main axis (45) and the second movable contact (15) is rotatable about the main axis (45). [10] The switching device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the switching device (10) comprises a contact bridge spring (23) arranged between the contact carrier pin (17) and a lower part of the contact carrier (16). [11] The switching device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the switching device (10) comprises - a first fixed contact (31) which is arranged at the first terminal contact (11), - a second and a third fixed contact (32, 33), both of which are arranged on the connecting conductor (13), - a fourth fixed contact (34) arranged at the second terminal contact (12), - a first and a second movable contact (41, 42) arranged on the first movable contact (14), and - a third and a fourth movable contact (43, 44) which are arranged on the second movable contact (15). [12] The switching device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first, second, third and fourth fixed contacts (31 to 34) are arranged on a first level (51), wherein the first, second, third and fourth movable contacts (41 to 44) are arranged on a second plane (52), wherein the first plane (51) is parallel to the second plane (52), and wherein the second level (52) is located at a distance from the first level (51) when the switching device (10) is switched off. [13] The switching device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, where the first and second connection contacts (11, 12) lie on a first imaginary line (53), wherein the connecting conductor (13) lies on a second imaginary line (54), where the first imaginary line (53) runs parallel to the second imaginary line (54), and where the first imaginary line (53) has a distance D from the second imaginary line (54), where D>0. [14] The switching device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the switching device (11) is implemented as a group consisting of a circuit breaker, a motor protection switch, a compact circuit breaker, a disconnect switch and a contactor. [15] A method for operating a switching device (10), comprising - Performing a linear movement of a first and a second movable contact (14, 15) to establish an electrical contact of a first terminal contact (11) with a connecting conductor (13) via the first movable contact (14) in an on-state of the switching device (10), and to establish an electrical contact of the connecting conductor (13) with a second terminal contact (12) via a second movable contact (15) in the on-state of the switching device (10), - Performing a linear movement in opposite directions of the first and second movable contacts (14, 15) to disconnect the first movable contact (14) from the first terminal contact (11) and the connecting conductor (13) in an off state of the switching device (10), and to disconnect the second movable contact (15) from the connecting conductor (13) and the second terminal contact (12) in an off state of the switching device (10).

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