Electrical switch

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical switch 1 comprising two first and two second fixed contact devices 10, 11 12, 13; a first movable contact device 14, which is rotatably arranged between the two first fixed contact devices 10,11, for rotating between a contact position and an interruption position; a second movable contact device 15, which is rotatably arranged between the two second fixed contact devices 12,13, for rotating between a contact position and an interruption position; a first rotary part 16 connected to the first movable contact device and comprising a first rotary axis 57 about which the first rotary part is rotatable for rotating the first movable contact device between its contact position and its interruption position; a second rotary part 17 connected to the second movable contact device; and a second rotary axis 58 about which the first rotary part 16 is rotatable for rotating the second movable contact device 15 between its contact position and its interruption position, and the second rotary axis 58 about which the second rotary part 17 is rotatable for rotating the second movable contact device between its contact position and its interruption position, wherein the first rotary part 16 and the second rotary part 17are rotatably connected to one another via toothing 19.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to an electrical switch, in particular a load-break switch, preferably a direct current load-break switch.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] EP 3 144 950 A1 discloses a switch which comprises at least one fixed contact and at least one moving contact that can move between a closed position and an open position, and at least one permanent magnet mounted together with the moving contact, such that the permanent magnet and the moving contact are able to move at the same time. The magnetic field of the magnet interferes with the area where the arc occurs and moves with the moving contact along its path, so with a small number of magnets, arc quenching capacity increases.

[0003] However, the electrical switch has the disadvantage that it requires a lot of installation space because several pairs of fixed contacts are arranged next to each other in a row, with a moving contact being provided between each pair.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved electrical switch, in particular a load-break switch.

[0005] According to the invention, this object is solved by an electrical switch having the features of claim 1. Accordingly, the following is provided: An electrical switch, in particular a load-break switch, comprising: at least two first and two second fixed contact devices, at least one first movable contact device, which is rotatably arranged between the two first fixed contact devices, for rotating between a contact position, in which the first movable contact device electrically contacts and connects the two first fixed contact devices for closing a first current path, and an interruption position, in which the first movable contact device is out of contact with the two first fixed contact devices for interrupting the first current path, at least one second movable contact device, which is rotatably arranged between the two second fixed contact devices for rotating between a contact position, in which the second movable contact device electrically contacts and connects the two second fixed contact devices for closing a second current path, and an interruption position, in which the second movable contact device is out of contact with the two second fixed contact devices for interrupting the second current path, at least one first rotating part which is connected to the first movable contact device and comprises a first rotary axis about which the first rotating part is rotatable for rotating the first movable contact device between its contact position and its interruption position, at least one second rotary part, which is connected to the second movable contact device and comprises a second rotary axis about which the second rotary part is rotatable for rotating the second movable contact device between its contact position and its interruption position, and an actuating device, which is connected to the first rotary part, for jointly switching the two rotary parts and their movable contact devices between their respective contact position and their interruption position, wherein the first rotary part and the second rotary part are rotatably connected to one another, preferably via toothing about their axes of rotation or as a single part or integral part, in such a way that the first movable contact device and the second movable contact device can be rotated together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position.

[0006] By means of the toothing of the first and second rotary parts, which comprise the first and second movable contact devices respectively, the first and second movable contact devices can be switched simultaneously and thus synchronously between their contact position and their interruption position. The gear system consisting of the first and second rotary parts with their toothing allows greater accuracy when switching between the contact position and the interruption position of the first and second movable contact devices. The play in the toothing can be minimized so that both the first and the second rotary part operate simultaneously and the moving contacts leave the fixed contacts at the same time with a maximum delay of 1 millisecond. The same applies when the first and secondary parts form a single part or an integral part, wherein their axes of rotation are preferably coaxial. The first rotary part and the second rotary part form a single or integral part so as to rotate the first movable contact device and the second movable contact device together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position.

[0007] Advantageous embodiments and further embodiments of the invention are shown in the further sub-claims and in the description with reference to the drawing.

[0008] In one embodiment of the invention, the first movable contact device is rotatable in a first direction and the second movable contact device is rotatable in a second, opposite direction between the contact position and the interruption position. Preferably the first rotary part is arranged with its first rotary axis axially spaced apart from the second rotary part and its second rotary axis and is rotatably connected to the second rotary part via the toothing. The first rotary part having a first toothed wheel as the toothing, in particular at a first longitudinal end, and the second rotary part having a second toothed wheel, in particular at a second opposite longitudinal end, which are engaged with one another for rotating the first and the second rotary parts in the respective opposite first and second directions.

[0009] In another embodiment of the invention, the first movable contact device rotates in a first direction and the second movable contact device rotates in the first or same direction. Preferably the first rotary part is arranged with its first rotary axis axially spaced apart from the second rotary part and its second rotary axis and is rotatably connected to the second rotary part via the toothing. The first rotary part having a first toothed wheel as the toothing, in particular at a first longitudinal end, and the second rotary part having a second toothed wheel, in particular at a second opposite longitudinal end, and at least one additional gear wheel is provided which couples the first and the second toothed wheel for rotating the first and the second rotary parts in the first direction or same direction.

[0010] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first rotary part is arranged with its first rotary axis axially spaced from the second rotary part and its second rotary axis and is rotatably connected to the second rotary part via the toothing, the first rotary part comprising a first toothed wheel, in particular at a first longitudinal end, and the second rotary part comprising a second toothed wheel, in particular at a second opposite longitudinal end, which are in engagement with one another for rotating the two rotary parts in the respective opposite first and second directions.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the invention, the each of the two first fixed contact devices comprise a first fixed contact element which provides a first contact section, the first fixed contact element being in particular a first fixed, elongate plate-shaped contact element. In another embodiment of the invention each of the two second fixed contact devices comprise a second fixed contact element which provides a second contact section, the second fixed contact element being in particular a second fixed, elongate plate-shaped contact element.

[0012] In one embodiment of the invention, at least the first movable contact device or the second movable contact device comprises a first and a second rolling contact, in particular a first and a second cylindrical rolling contact, wherein the movable contact device in the contact position electrically contacts the one fixed electrical contact device with its first rolling contact and electrically contacts the other fixed electrical contact device with the second rolling contact.

[0013] In another embodiment of the invention, the first movable contact device comprises at least one contact element with two contact sections, in particular two opposing contact sections. In the contact position, the first movable contact device electrically contacts the first fixed electrical contact device with one contact section and electrically contacts the other first fixed electrical contact device with the other contact section. The second movable contact device comprises two contact sections, in particular two opposing contact sections. In the contact position, one contact section of the second movable contact device makes electrical contact with the second, fixed electrical contact device and the other contact section makes electrical contact with the other, second fixed electrical contact device.

[0014] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first or second movable contact device comprises a contact housing with two contact elements, wherein an associated contact element of the first or second fixed contact device can be received between the two contact elements and can be electrically contacted when the first or second movable contact device is in its contact position. The movable contact device can be received and fastened with its respective contact housing, for example in a through opening of the associated rotary part, e.g., can be latched to the latter.

[0015] In another embodiment of the invention, the two contact elements are arranged opposite one another in the contact housing. Two spring elements are provided in the contact housing, which pretension the two contact elements. Between the respective spring element and the associated contact element, for example, an optional additional reinforcing element is provided for reinforcing the contact element.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the invention, the contact housing can be latched to the rotary part for fastening the movable contact device to the rotary part. The contact housing comprises, for example, at least one latching element, for example a spring-loaded or elastic latching element, and an associated latching receptacle. The through opening of the rotary part comprises, for example, at least one latching projection which co-operates with the latching element in such a way that the latching projection engages in the latching receptacle when the contact housing has reached its predetermined installation position in the through opening of the rotary part.

[0017] In one embodiment of the invention, the contact housing comprises an insertion section and a guide section. The insertion or slide-in section comprises the at least one latching element. The latching receptacle is configured between the slide-in section and the guide section for latching the associated latching projection of the rotary part in the installation position.

[0018] In a further embodiment of the invention, the switch comprises two first arc extinguishing devices for the first movable contact device and the two first fixed contact devices. The switch comprises two second arc extinguishing devices for the second movable contact device and the two second fixed contact devices. Each arc extinguishing device comprises at least one magnetic element and at least two, three or more extinguishing plates. The extinguishing plates are arranged between the respective fixed contact device and the associated movable contact device in such a way as to extinguish an arc with the associated magnetic element.

[0019] In another embodiment of the invention, the switch comprises an actuating device which is connected to the first rotary part and, via the toothing, to the second rotary part for rotating the first and second rotary parts together between their contact position and their interruption position. The actuating device comprises, for example, a motor to switch the switch for opening and closing the at least first and second current path, and / or a lever device which is rotatably connected to the rotating part, wherein the lever device comprises, for example, a shaft and a lever attached to the shaft. The shaft is, for example, rotatable by the motor and / or the lever.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first rotating part can be rotated by the motor and / or the lever device between the contact position and the interruption position. The lever device and the first rotary part are rotatably connected via an actuating part with two actuating cams, a middle part with two middle part cams and a connecting part with two rotary part cams, in particular mutually rotatably connected to one another, and comprise a common rotary axis. The common rotary axis corresponds to the first rotary axis. The actuating part is firmly connected to the first rotary part, for example by means of a screw, a (e.g. square) pin / hole arrangement, or configured in one piece with it. The middle part can be rotated independently of the connecting part by the actuating part with its actuating cams, whereby the connecting part can be rotated independently of the actuating part by the middle part with its middle part cams. The middle part is connected to two spring elements, one end of the respective spring element being attached to the middle part, in particular its middle part cams, and the other end of the respective spring element being attached in the housing of the switch, in particular to a housing cover part.

[0021] In one embodiment of the invention, the middle part can be rotated by the actuating part into a tensioned position in which the spring elements of the middle part are sufficiently tensioned in such a way that the spring elements rotate the middle part and the connecting part coupled to it by the middle part cams further into the contact position or further into the interruption position. The rotation or further rotation of the middle part by the spring elements takes place independently of the actuating part, which does not continue to rotate.

[0022] In one embodiment of the invention, the switch comprises at least one additional indicator and / or pilot switch for detecting a position, preferably an on / off position, of the position indicating device, the visual mechanical indicator element, of the motor, of the first rotary part, the second rotary part, the first movable contact device and / or the second movable contact device.

[0023] In a further embodiment of the invention, the switch comprises at least one additional measurement device for voltage, current, temperature and / or grid analysis.

[0024] In another embodiment of the invention, the at least one indicator and / or pilot switch of the switch is preferably configured to send at least one signal or signals to an external device, preferably a programmable logic controller (PLC) unit.

[0025] In an embodiment of the invention, the switch comprises at least one locking means, for blocking the switching of the switch, wherein the locking means is preferably a lock or a seal.

[0026] In an embodiment of the invention, the electrical further comprises for opening and closing at least an additional third current path: two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*), a third movable contact device (14*), which is rotatably arranged between the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*), for rotating between a contact position, in which the third movable contact device (14*) electrically contacts and connects the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*) for closing a third current path, and an interruption position, in which the third movable contact device (14*) is out of contact with the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*) for interrupting the third current path, a third rotating part (16*) which is connected to the third movable contact device (14*) and comprises a third rotary axis (57*) about which the third rotating part (16*) is rotatable for rotating the third movable contact device (14*) between its contact position and its interruption position, and the actuating device (8), which is connected to the first rotary part (16), for jointly switching the three rotary parts (16, 17, 16*) and the first, second and the third movable contact device (14, 15, 14*) between their respective contact position and their interruption position, wherein the second rotary part (17) and the third rotary part (16*) are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing (19*) about their rotary axes (58, 57*) so as to rotate the first movable contact device (14), the second movable contact device (15) and the third movable contact device (14*) together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position; or wherein the first rotary part (16), second rotary part (17) and third rotary part (16*) form a single part or integral part for rotating the first, second and the third rotary parts (16, 17, 16*) in the first direction, wherein the first rotary axis (57) of the first rotary part (16), the second rotary axis (58) of the second rotary part (17) and the third rotary axis (57*) of the third rotary part (16*) are preferably coaxially.

[0027] In an embodiment of the invention the electrical switch further comprises for opening and closing the third and the fourth current path: two third and two fourth fixed contact devices (10*, 11*; 12*, 13*), a third movable contact device (14*), which is rotatably arranged between the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*), for rotating between a contact position, in which the third movable contact device (14*) electrically contacts and connects the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*) for closing a third current path, and an interruption position, in which the third movable contact device (14*) is out of contact with the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*) for interrupting the third current path, at least a fourth movable contact device (15*) rotatably arranged between the two fourth fixed contact devices (12*, 13*) for rotating between a contact position, in which the fourth movable contact device (15*) electrically contacts and connects the two fourth fixed contact devices (12*, 13*) for closing a fourth current path, and an interruption position, in which the fourth movable contact device (15*) is out of contact with the two fourth fixed contact devices (12*, 13*) for interrupting the fourth current path, a third rotating part (16*) which is connected to the third movable contact device (14*) and comprises a third rotary axis (57*) about which the third rotating part (16*) is rotatable for rotating the third movable contact device (14*) between its contact position and its interruption position, a fourth rotary part (17*) connected to the fourth movable contact device (15*) and comprising a fourth rotary axis (58*) about which the fourth rotary part (17*) is rotatable for rotating the fourth movable contact device (15*) between its contact position and its interruption position, and the actuating device (8), which is connected to the first rotary part (16), for jointly switching the four rotary parts (16, 17, 16*, 17*) and the first, second, third and fourth movable contact device (14, 15, 14*, 15*) between their respective contact position and their interruption position, wherein the second rotary part (17) and the third rotary part (16*) are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing (19*) about their rotary axes (58, 57*) and wherein the third rotary part (16*) and the fourth rotary part (17*) are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing (19**) about their rotary axes (57*, 58*) so as to rotate the second movable contact device (15), the third movable contact device (14*) and the fourth movable contact device (15*) together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position; or or wherein the first rotary part (16), second rotary part (17), the third rotary part (16*) and the fourth rotary part (17*) form a single part or integral part for rotating the first, second, third and the fourth rotary parts (16, 17, 16*, 17*) in the first direction, wherein the first rotary axis (57) of the first rotary part (16), the second rotary axis (58) of the second rotary part (17), the third rotary axis (57*) of the third rotary part (16*) and the fourth rotary axis (58*) of the fourth rotary part (17*) are preferably coaxially. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the embodiment example shown in the figures in the drawing: It shows: Figure 1 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of a switch according to the invention; Figure 2 an exploded view of the switch 1 according to the invention as shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 is another exploded view of the switch 1 according to the invention as shown in Figures 1 and 2; Figure 4 a top view of the lower intermediate housing part with the first movable contact device, the two first fixed contact devices and the two first arc extinguishing devices of the switch as shown in Figures 1-3, with the movable contact devices rotated to the interruption position; Figure 5 a perspective view of the first and second movable contact devices in the interruption position of the switch according to Figures 1-4; Figure 6 a top view of the interruption position according to Figure 5; Figure 7 a perspective view of the first and second movable contact devices in the contact position of the switch as shown in Figures 1-4; Figure 8 a top view of the contact position according to Figure 7; Figure 9 an exploded view of the first movable contact device 14 of the switch 1 according to Figures 1-8; Figure 10 a perspective view of the first rotary part; Figure 11 a perspective view of one half of the contact housing and of a spring element of the movable contact device as shown in Figure 9, before assembly; Figure 12 a perspective view of the half of the contact housing as shown in Figure 11, after assembly; Figure 13 a perspective view of the contact housing half and the spring element according to Figure 12 with the reinforcing element and the contact element, before assembly; Figure 14 a top view of the arrangement according to Figure 13 after assembly; Figure 15 a sectional view A-A of the arrangement according to Figure 14; Figure 16 a perspective view of the arrangement according to Figures 14 and 15; Figure 17 a perspective view of the fully assembled, movable contact device as shown in Figures 1-16; Figure 18 a side view of the first rotating part with the first movable contact device attached thereto as shown in Figures 1-17; Figure 19 a sectional view B-B of the first rotary part and its first movable contact device as shown in Figure 18; Figure 20 an exploded view of the actuating device of the switch as shown in Figures 1-19; Figure 21 an exploded view of the actuating device of the switch according to Figure 20; Figure 22 a perspective view of the actuating device of the switch as shown in Figures 1-19; Figure 23 a perspective view of the actuating device of the switch as shown in Figures 1-22, in the "0" position or interruption position; Figure 24 a perspective view of the actuating device as shown in Figure 23 in a tensioned position in which the spring elements are tensioned to close the switch; Figure 25 a perspective view of the actuating device according to Figures 23 and 24 in the "I" position or contact position; Figure 26 a perspective view of the actuating device according to Figures 23-25 in a tensioned position in which the spring elements are tensioned to open the switch; Figure 27 a perspective view of the actuating device of the switch as shown in Figures 23-26, in the "0" position or interruption position; Figure 28 a section of a part of the actuating device of the switch according to Figures 1-27; Figure 29 an exploded view of an embodiment of the switch according to the invention described above with reference to Figures 1-28; and Figure 30 a perspective view of the switch according to Figure 30, wherein the housing cover part is removed so that two position indicating devices are visible, and Fig. 31 a principle sketch of a further embodiment of the switch according to the invention.

[0029] In all figures of the drawing, identical or functionally identical elements - unless otherwise indicated - have been given the same reference signs.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0030] Figure 1 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of an electrical switch 1 according to the invention, in particular a load-break switch, such as a DC load-break switch. Figures 2 and 3 each show an exploded view of the electrical switch according to Figure 1, whereby, in contrast to Figure 1, an actuation system for actuating the switch 1 is not shown for reasons of clarity.

[0031] Figures 4-8 each show sections of fixed and movable contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 of the switch 1 as shown in Figures 1-3, which are described in more detail below.

[0032] The electrical switch 1 as a load-break switch is used to connect and disconnect a load from an electrical energy source, e.g., a photovoltaic system, etc., whereby the respective movable contact moves in relation to other fixed or stationary contacts so that, when the circuit is closed, the movable contacts come into electrical contact with the fixed or stationary contacts, whereby a load and an energy source are electrically connected and a current flow is thereby enabled. If the movable contacts are moved so that they are again out of electrical contact with the fixed or stationary contacts, the current flow is interrupted and the load is disconnected from the electrical energy source.

[0033] As shown in Figures 1-8, the electrical switch 1 in the embodiment example according to the invention comprises, for example, two first fixed contact devices 10, 11 and, for example, two second fixed contact devices 12, 13. Furthermore, the electrical switch comprises a first movable contact device 14, which is rotatably arranged between the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11, for rotating between a contact position, in which the first movable contact device 14 electrically contacts and connects the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11 for closing a first current path, and an interruption position, in which the first movable contact device 14 is out of contact with the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11 for interrupting the first current path.

[0034] In addition, the electrical switch 1 comprises a second movable contact device 15, which is rotatably arranged between the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13, for rotating between a contact position, in which the second movable contact device 15 electrically contacts and connects the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13 for closing a second current path, and an interruption position, in which the second movable contact device 15 is out of contact with the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13, for interrupting the second current path.

[0035] The respective contact position is shown by way of example in Figures 7 and 8 and the respective interruption position is shown by way of example in Figures 4, 5 and 6.

[0036] Further, the electrical switch 1 comprises a first rotary part 16, which is connected to the first movable contact device 14. The first rotary part 16 comprises a first rotary axis 57 about which the first rotary part 16 is rotatable for rotating the first movable contact device 14 between its contact position and its interruption position.

[0037] Further, the electrical switch comprises a second rotary part 17, which is connected to the second movable contact device 15. The second rotary part 17 comprises a second rotary axis 58, about which the second rotary part 17 is rotatable, for rotating the second movable contact device 15 between its contact position and its interruption position.

[0038] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the electrical switch 1 comprises an actuating device 8, which is connected to the first rotary part 16, for jointly switching the two rotary parts 16, 17 and their movable contact devices 10-15 between their respective contact position and their interruption position.

[0039] The first fixed contact devices 10, 11, the first movable contact device 14 and the first rotary part 16 are arranged in a lower intermediate housing part 4 of a switch housing of the switch 1, as shown, for example, in Figure 1. The second fixed contact devices 12, 13, the second movable contact device 15 and the second rotary part 17 are arranged in a housing bottom part 5 of the switch housing, as shown, for example, in Figure 1. The actuating device 8 is arranged in an upper housing part 6 and a lever device 9 of the actuating device, described below, is guided outwards through a housing cover part 7 for actuating the switch 1 by means of the actuating device 8. In addition to the lever device 9 and its lever 62 or instead of the lever device 9 and in particular instead of its lever 62, the actuating device 8 can be further configured to be driven by a motor to switch the electrical switch 1 between its contact position ("I" position) in which the current paths are closed and the interruption position ("0" position) in which the current paths are interrupted, so that no current flows.

[0040] As shown in Figure 1, two actuating positions "I" for a contact position and "0" for an interruption position are indicated on the outside of the housing cover part 7. These are described in more detail below. The switch housing is thus made up of these housing parts 4, 5, 6 and 7, which are fastened together, for example by means of screws 56 and / or the like.

[0041] The first rotating part 16 and the second rotating part 17 are rotatably connected to each other about their rotary axes 57, 58 via toothing 19 in such a way that the first movable contact device 14 rotates in a first direction and the second movable contact device 15 rotates in a second, opposite direction, between its contact position and in its interruption position. In other words, if the first rotary part 16 rotates in the first direction, for example clockwise, the second rotary part 17, which is connected to the first rotary part 16 by the toothing 19, rotates in the second, opposite direction, in this case anti-clockwise. Conversely, when the first rotary part 16 rotates anti-clockwise, the toothing 19 causes the second rotary part 17 connected to it to rotate clockwise.

[0042] In the example in Figures 1-8, the first rotary part 16 with its first rotary axis 57 and the second rotary part 17 with its second rotary axis 58 are arranged axially spaced apart or axially offset from one another and are rotatably connected to the second rotary part 17 via the toothing 19, in particular rotatably engaged. As toothing 19, the first rotary part 16 and the second rotary part 17 each comprise, for example, a first or second toothed wheel 2, 3. The first toothed wheel 2 is provided, for example, at one end of the first rotary part 16 and the second toothed wheel 3 at an opposite end of the second rotary part 17. Both toothed wheels 2, 3 are in engagement with one another for rotating the two rotary parts 16, 17 in the respective opposite first and second directions. However, the invention is not limited to this specific embodiment. More than two toothed wheels can also be provided, which are coupled to one another in such a way that the two rotary parts 16, 17 can be rotated in opposite directions. This applies to all embodiments of the invention.

[0043] In an alternative embodiment of the invention not shown, the first movable contact device 14 rotates in a first direction and the second movable contact device 15 rotates in the first or same direction. In this case the first rotary part 16 is arranged with its first rotary axis 57 axially spaced apart from the second rotary part 17 and its second rotary axis 58 and is rotatably connected to the second rotary part 17 via the toothing 19, the first rotary part 16 having the first toothed wheel 2 as the toothing 19, in particular at a first longitudinal end, and the second rotary part 17 having a second toothed wheel 3, in particular at a second opposite longitudinal end, and at least one additional gear wheel which couples the first and the second toothed wheel 2, 3 for rotating the first and the second rotary parts 16, 17 in the first direction. In case the switch 1 is configured to open and close more than two current paths, for each additional current part an additional module is provided comprising a further rotary part, e.g. , a third rotary part, and two corresponding third fixed contact devices etc.. The third rotary part is rotatable connected to the second rotary part which is rotatable connected to the first rotary part, so that at least all three rotary parts can be rotated together between the interruption position, in which their corresponding current path is interrupted and no current flows and their corresponding contact position in which their current paths are closed so that current flows. Dependent on the intended number of poles, the 2-pole switch 1 as described with respect to the Figs. 1-31 can easily be extended to a switch with more than two poles, e.g. three, four or more poles.

[0044] At least one or both toothed wheels 2, 3 can be configured in one piece with the respective rotary part 16, 17 or can be attached to it as a separate component or coupled to it. In the embodiment example in Figures 1-29, the two toothed wheels 2, 3 are arranged, for example, at opposite ends or longitudinal ends of the rotary parts 16, 17.

[0045] The two first and two second fixed contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13 each comprise two first and two second fixed contact elements 23, 24, respectively, which each provide two first and two second contact sections 25, 26 and two first and two second connection sections 27, respectively. The connection sections 27 are used to connect the switch 1 to an electrical device, e.g., an electrical energy consumption device (for example in a DC industrial application such as for galvanic plating, DC motors etc.), an electrical energy source or electrical energy generation device such as a photovoltaic system and / or the like. This enables the electrical switch 1 to electrically connect electrical devices, such as an electrical energy consumption device and an electrical energy generation device, to each other and, if necessary, to electrically disconnect them from each other.

[0046] The two first and two second fixed contact elements 23, 24 are, for example, two first and two second elongate, plate-shaped contact elements which are positioned and fixed in the housing bottom part 5 and the lower intermediate housing part 4 of the electrical switch 1, as shown in Figures 1 and 4 for the two first and second fixed contact elements 23, 24 by way of example.

[0047] The first movable contact device 14 comprises at least one contact element 21 with two contact sections 18, in particular two opposing contact sections. In the contact position, one contact section 18 of the first movable contact device 14 makes electrical contact with the first fixed electrical contact device 10 and the other contact section 18 makes electrical contact with the other first fixed electrical contact device 11.

[0048] The second movable contact device 15 comprises two contact sections 28, in particular two opposing contact sections. In the contact position, one contact section 28 of the second movable contact device 15 makes electrical contact with the second fixed electrical contact device 12 and the other contact section 28 makes electrical contact with the other, second fixed electrical contact device 13.

[0049] The first or second movable contact device 14, 15 comprises a contact housing 38 with two contact elements 21. An associated contact element 23, 24 of the first or second fixed contact device 10, 11 can be accommodated or received between the two contact elements 21 and can be electrically contacted when the first or second movable contact device 14, 15 is in its contact position. The structure of the first or second movable contact device 14, 15 is explained in more detail below with reference to Figures 9-19.

[0050] The contact housing 38 can, for example, be accommodated and fastened as a separate component in a through-opening 29 of the first or second rotary part 16, 17, as shown in Figures 9-19 below.

[0051] For actuating the electrical switch 1 and moving the first rotary part 16 with its first movable contact device 14 between the contact position and the interruption position, the actuating system comprises the actuating device 8. The actuating device 8 is connected to the first rotary part 16 for switching or rotating the first rotary part 16 and the second rotary part 17 connected to it with their movable contact devices 14, 15 between their respective contact position and their interruption position.

[0052] The actuating device 8 comprises, for example, the lever device 9, which is coupled to the first rotary part 16 in such a way as to rotate the first rotary part 16 about its rotary axis 57 with its first movable contact device 14 between its contact position, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, and its interruption position, as shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6. When the first rotating part 16 is rotated by actuating or rotating the lever device 9, it rotates the second rotary part 17 connected to it via the toothing 19 and its second contact device 15 in the opposite direction, also between its contact position, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, and its interruption position, as shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6. In other words, if the first rotary part 16 with its first contact device 14 is rotated into its contact position, e.g. clockwise, it rotates the second rotary part 17 with its second contact device 15 via the toothing 19 in the opposite direction, i.e. anti-clockwise, into its contact position and vice versa. This means that if the first rotary part 16 is rotated with its first contact device 14 into its contact position, the second rotary part 17 is simultaneously rotated with its second contact device 15 into its contact position. Conversely, if the first rotary part 16 is rotated with its first contact device 14 into its interruption position, the second rotary part 17 is also simultaneously rotated with its second contact device 15 into its interruption position.

[0053] The actuating system with its actuating device 8 is explained in more detail below with reference to Figures 20-28.

[0054] As shown in Figures 1 to 8, the electrical switch 1 comprises two first and two second arc extinguishing devices 30, 31, 32, 33 for extinguishing a respective possible arc. Each of the two first or two second arc extinguishing devices 30, 31 or 32, 33 comprises at least two, three or more extinguishing plates 34, e. g., C-shaped extinguishing plates, which are each arranged in a region between the respective first fixed contact device 10 or 11 and the movable contact device 14. The extinguishing plates 34 are arranged in a row along which the movable contact device can move between its contact position and its interruption position. The C-shaped extinguishing plates 34 arranged in a row in the embodiment example shown in Figures 1-8 form a channel along which the movable contact device can move between its contact position and its interruption position.

[0055] For example, the extinguishing plates 34 of the first arc extinguishing device 30 are arranged between the contact section 25 of the first fixed contact device 10 and the associated contact section 28 of the first movable contact device 14. Correspondingly, the extinguishing plates 34 of the first arc extinguishing device 31 are arranged between the contact section 25 of the other, first fixed contact device 11 and the other contact section 28 of the first movable contact device 14.

[0056] For example, the extinguishing plates 34 of the second arc extinguishing device 32 are arranged between the contact section 26 of the second fixed contact device 12 and the associated contact section 28 of the second movable contact device 15. Correspondingly, the extinguishing plates 34 of the further, second arc extinguishing device 33 are arranged between the contact section 26 of the other second, fixed contact device 13 and the other contact section 28 of the second movable contact device 15. The extinguishing plates 34, for instance C-shaped extinguishing plates, are received and positioned in corresponding extinguishing plate holders 35 in the respective housing bottom part 5 or lower intermediate housing part 4 of the switch 1.

[0057] When opening the contacts 10-15, i.e. when moving the movable contact device 14 or 15 into the interruption position, an arc 36 can form, as indicated in Figure 4. The arc 36 must be extinguished as quickly as possible to prevent damage to the switch 1. Such damage to the switch 1 can be caused by high temperatures and a corresponding internal pressure due to the arc 36. The arc is very difficult to extinguish, especially with direct current.

[0058] Therefore, each of the arc extinguishing devices 30, 31, 32, 33 comprises at least one magnetic element 37 which is positioned with respect to the extinguishing plates 34 of the associated extinguishing device 30, 31, 32, 33 in such a way as to force an occurring arc 36 into the so-called arc chambers between the extinguishing plates 34 in order to divide the arc 36 into smaller arcs, cool it down and extinguish it. The respective arcing chamber is formed by two neighboring or adjacent arcing plates 34. Holes in the housing are provided as gas outlets.

[0059] Figure 9 shows an exploded view of the first movable contact device 14 as used in the switch 1 as shown in Figures 1-8. The structure of the first and second movable contact devices 14, 15 is preferably identical, so that reference is made to the explanations of Figure 9 and the following Figures 11-19 with regard to the structure of the second movable contact device 15 in order to avoid unnecessary repetitions. Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the first rotary part 16.

[0060] Figures 11-19 show individual assembly steps of one half of the movable contact device as shown in Figure 9. Figure 11 shows a perspective view of a contact housing half 39 and a spring element 22 of the movable contact device 14 according to Figure 9, before assembly and Figure 12 after assembly. Figure 13 shows a perspective view of the contact housing half 39 and the spring element 22 according to Figure 12 with the reinforcing element 43 and the contact element 21, before assembly. Figure 14 again shows a top view of the arrangement comprising contact housing half 39, spring element 22, reinforcing element 43 and contact element 21 as shown in Figure 13 after assembly, and Figure 15 shows a sectional view A-A of this arrangement as shown in Figure 14. Figure 16 shows a perspective view of the arrangement as shown in Figures 14 and 15. Figure 17 shows a perspective view of the fully assembled, movable contact device 14 as shown in Figures 1-16. Further, Figure 18 shows a side view of the first rotary part 16 with the first movable contact device 14 attached thereto as shown in Figures 1-17. Figure 19 shows a sectional view B-B of the first rotary part 16 and its first movable contact device 14 as shown in Figure 18.

[0061] The first movable contact device 14 comprises the contact housing 38, which is configured, for example, from two contact housing halves 39, as shown, for example, in Figure 17. A spring element 22 and a contact element 21 are provided in each of the two contact housing halves 39. An additional reinforcing element 43 is optionally provided between the spring element 22 and the contact element 21 for reinforcing the contact element 21. The two contact elements 21 of the first movable contact device 14 each form the contact section 28 at their two longitudinal ends. In other words, the first movable contact device 14 comprises the corresponding contact section 28 at each longitudinal end, which is formed by the two contact elements 21 for receiving and electrically contacting the respectively assigned contact section 25 of the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11. The same applies to the second movable contact device 15 and its contact sections 28 at its longitudinal end for receiving and electrically contacting the contact sections 26 of the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13.

[0062] In the assembled state, the spring elements 22 of the two housing halves 39 pretension the contact elements 21 against each other. In this way, reliable electrical contact can be ensured between the contact sections 25 and 26 of the first and second fixed contact devices 10, 11 and 12, 13 respectively, which are located between the contact elements 21. The two contact elements 21 are configured in such a way that, when mounted, they form a receiving gap 42 for receiving the respective contact section 25, 26 of the fixed contact device 10, 11, 12, 13. The two contact elements 21 are configured as flat or plate-shaped contact elements 21. At least one of the contact elements 21 comprises a protrusion 72 with which it rests on the opposite contact element 21 for adjusting the receiving gap 42. In the embodiment example as shown in Figures 9-19, for example, each of the contact elements 21 comprises one or here, for example, two protrusions 72 for adjusting the receiving gap 42. Depending on the desired receiving gap 42, the protrusions 72 of the two contact elements 21 can rest on one another. In this case, the protrusions 72 of the two contact elements 21 are arranged exactly opposite each other in the mounted position in the contact housing 38.

[0063] The contact elements 21 can, for example, be configured as electrically conductive metal plates and the respective protrusion 72 can be embossed into the metal plate, as is indicated, for example, in Figures 9 and 14.

[0064] In an alternative embodiment of the invention not shown at least the first movable contact device 14 or the second movable contact device 15 comprises a first and a second rolling contact, in particular a first and a second cylindrical rolling contact. The corresponding movable contact device 14; 15 electrically contacts with its first rolling contact in the contact position the one fixed electrical contact device 10; 12 and electrically contacts the other fixed electrical contact device 11; 13 with the second rolling contact. In a further embodiment at least the first or second rolling contact of at least the first or second movable contact 14, 15 can be configured as two rolling contact elements providing a gap in between, similar to the contact elements 21 in Fig. 18, to receive the corresponding fixed contact device 10, 12 to electrically contact said fixed contact device, when the movable contact is rotated in the contact position to close the corresponding current path.

[0065] The optional reinforcing element 43 is also configured, for example, as a flat or plate-shaped reinforcing element. The reinforcing element 43 is e.g. steel, the spring element 22 is also, e.g. steel, the contact element 21 is e.g. copper or silver-plated copper and / or the contact housing 38 is, e.g., plastic. However, the invention is not limited to said examples and any other suitable material or material combination can be used for the parts depending on the function and intended use.

[0066] The respective contact housing half 39 and the spring element 22 are configured to be pluggable together, for example, in order to position the spring element 22 in the contact housing half 39. The spring element 22, e.g. a V-shaped spring element as shown in the figures, comprises an indentation 40 with which the spring element 22 can be plugged onto a corresponding protrusion 41 and thus be positioned. In the embodiment example shown in the figures, the indentation 40 is configured at the tip of the V-shaped, e.g. symmetrical, spring element 22. Conversely, the contact housing half 39 can also comprise the indentation and the spring element 22 the protrusion.

[0067] The contact element 21 and the contact housing half 39 and the optional reinforcing element 43 are configured to be pluggable together, for example, for positioning the contact element 21 or the reinforcing element 43 in the contact housing half 39. For example, the contact housing half 39 comprises a respective protrusion 45 on at least one inner side 44 or both opposite inner sides, which can be accommodated ore received in a corresponding recess 46 of the contact element 21 and the optional reinforcing element 43. This has the advantage that the contact element 21 and the optional reinforcing element 43 can be positioned and held in the contact housing half 39 in the same way as the spring element 22 beforehand. Conversely, it is also conceivable that the contact housing half 39 comprises the recess or indentation and the contact element 21 and the optional reinforcing element 43 comprise the protrusion.

[0068] The two contact housing halves 39 with the spring elements 22, contact elements 21 and reinforcing elements 43 accommodated therein are configured so that they can be plugged together and / or latched together, for example, to provide the fully assembled movable contact device 14, 15.

[0069] To install the respective movable contact device 14, 15 in the associated rotary part 16, 17, the contact housing 38 and the associated rotary part 14, 15 are configured in the embodiment of the switch 1 shown in Figures 1-19, for example so that they can be latched together.

[0070] The rotary part 16 or 17 comprises the aforementioned through opening 29, into which the movable contact device 14 or 15 is inserted and pushed through. The movable contact device 14 or 15 is pushed through the through opening 29 until both longitudinal ends of the movable contact device 14 or 15 protrude sufficiently with their contact sections 18, 28 for electrical contacting of the fixed contact devices 10, 11 or 12, 13 in the contact position.

[0071] For fastening the movable contact device 14 or 15 to the rotary part 16 or 17, the rotary part 16 or 17 comprises a latching projection 47 on the inner wall of its feed-through opening 29, for example on opposite sides, for latching with the movable contact device 14 or 15 in the mounted state.

[0072] As shown in particular in Figures 9, 16-19, the contact housing half 39 comprises along its longitudinal axis a narrower insertion section 49 with two latching elements, e.g. latching wings 48, and a guide section 50 which is wider in comparison. A latching receptacle 51 is provided between each latching element 48 and the guide section 50 for receiving and latching the latching projections 47 of the rotary part 16 or 17 when the movable contact device 14 or 15 is in its installed position in the rotary part.

[0073] The two latching elements 48 are resilient elements configured, for example, as latching wings 48 protruding laterally in the longitudinal direction, preferably in the shape of an arrow. The latching elements are initially compressed by the latching projections 47 when they are inserted into the through opening 29 and then spring back into their initial position when the latching elements 48 are received or latched in the latching receptacles 51. As indicated by the arrow E in Figure 19, the contact housing half 39 is pushed into the through-opening 29 of the rotating part 16 or 17 in the direction of the arrow of the arrow-shaped protruding latching wings 48. In the process, the latching wings 48 are first pressed together by the two latching projections 47 of the through opening 29 of the rotary part 16 or 17 and the latching projections 47 then latch into the latching recesses 51 between the wider guide section 50 and the ends of the latching wings of the narrower insertion section 49. The wider guide section 50 has the advantage that it forms a guide for the movable contact device 14, 15 in the feed-through opening 29 of the rotary part 16 and thus prevents it from moving unintentionally within the feed-through opening 29.

[0074] To actuate the electrical switch 1 and move the first or second rotary part 16, 17 with its first contact device 14 or second contact device 15 between the contact position and the interruption position, the switch 1 comprises the actuation system, as described above.

[0075] The actuation system is explained in more detail below with reference to Figures 20-28.

[0076] As described above, the actuating system comprises the actuating device 8.

[0077] The actuating device 8 is coupled to the first rotary part 16 for switching or rotating the first rotary part 16 and the second rotary part 17 connected thereto with their movable contact devices 14, 15 between their respective contact position and their interruption position, by actuating the actuating device 8.

[0078] In order to move the respective movable contact device 14, 15 between its contact position and its interruption position, the switch 1 comprises, as already explained above, a lever device 9, which can be rotated by a user between the contact position "I", i.e. the respective current path between the contacts 10-15 is closed, and the interruption position "0", i.e. the respective current path between the contacts 10-15 is interrupted.

[0079] The lever device 9 and the first rotary part 16 are coupled to each other in the example embodiment, as shown in Figures 1-28, via an actuating part 52, a middle part 53 and a connecting part 54. The actuating part 52 is attached in one piece or as a separate component to the lever device 9, for example screwed to it by means of a screw 55, as shown, for example, in the cross-sectional view in Figure 28.

[0080] The lever device 9 comprises, for example, a shaft 59 with a square section 60 at an inner end, which is received in a receptacle or holder 61 of the actuating part 52 and screwed to the latter. A lever or handle 62 is attached to the outer end of the shaft 59 for rotating the shaft 59 and the actuating part 52 connected to it clockwise and anti-clockwise by the user between the contact position "I", i.e. the respective current path between the contacts 10-15 is closed, and the interruption position "0", i.e. the respective current path between the contacts 10-15 is interrupted. As described before, in addition or instead of the lever or handle 52 the actuating device 8 can be driven by a motor. The motor can be provided, e.g., for rotating the shaft 59 to switch the electrical switch 1 between its contact position ("I" position) in which the current paths are closed and the interruption position ("0" position) in which the current paths are interrupted, so that no current flows.

[0081] A visual mechanical indicator element 80 may be fixedly attached to the shaft 59, in particular to its square section 60, such that it rotates when the shaft 59 is rotated. The outer surface of the housing cover 7 may be provided with indicia (or: indicator marks such as symbols, a color gradient or the like) so that the visual mechanical indicator element 80 points to an indicia indicating the contact position "I" or the interruption position "0".

[0082] The actuating part 52, the middle part 53 and the connecting part 54 are arranged coaxially to one another and, for example, can be plugged together, as shown in Figure 28, and comprise a common rotary axis. The actuating part 52, the middle part 53 and the connecting part 54 are each rotatable about the rotary axis. The connecting part 54 is preferably also coaxial with the first rotary part 16 and comprises the common rotary axis with the latter, which corresponds to the first rotary axis 57 of the first rotary part 16. The connecting part 54 is also configured to be connectable to the first rotary part 16. The connection part 54 is pluggable together with the first rotary part 16, for example, and comprises, for example, a square or other polygon, etc., which is received in a corresponding receptacle or holder 63 of the first rotary part 16 or vice versa in order to rotatably connect the two parts to one another. Both rotary parts 16, 17 can be of identical design. The second rotary part 17 can be received in a corresponding holder or receptacle in the housing as shown, e.g. in Fig. 3. Fig 3 shows the first rotary part 16 received in a corresponding holder or receptacle in the housing.

[0083] The actuating part 52 comprises an actuating cam 64 on each of two opposite sides and the middle part 53 comprises a middle part cam 65 on each of two opposite sides. The actuating cams 64 of the actuating part 52 act together with the middle part cams 65 of the middle part 53 to rotate the middle part 53 by the actuating part 52, in particular independently of the connecting part 54. In the process, the two spring elements 66, 67 of the middle part 53 are tensioned and released.

[0084] The connecting part 54 also comprises a rotary part cam 68 on each of two opposite sides. The rotary part cams 68 of the connecting part 54 interact with the middle part cams 65 of the middle part 53 to rotate the connecting part 54 through the middle part 53, in particular independently of the actuating part 52.

[0085] As shown in particular in the sectional view in Figure 28, the connecting part 54 is rotatably connected to the first rotary part 16 in such a way that the connecting part 54 rotates the first rotary part 16 when the connecting part 54 is rotated. As previously explained, the connecting part 54 and the first rotary part 16 are arranged coaxially with respect to each other and comprise the common rotary axis 57. In other words, in the embodiment example in Figures 1-28, the actuating part 52, the middle part 53, the connecting part 54 and the first rotary part 16 are arranged coaxially to one another, for example plugged together, and comprise the common rotary axis 57. The connecting part 54 comprises, for example, a square section which is received in a corresponding receptacle or holder 63 of the first rotary part 16 for rotating the first rotary part 16. However, the invention is not limited to this specific embodiment. Any other suitable connection between the first rotary part 16 and the connecting part 54 can be provided. The invention is also not limited to a square or other polygon. This applies to all square connections as described herein.

[0086] The two middle part cams 65 are also each connected to the spring element 66 or 67 for rotating the middle part 53 by means of the two spring elements 66, 67. The respective spring element 66, 67 is, for example, a spiral or torsion spring. In the embodiment example in Figures 1-28, a first end 69 of the respective spring element 66, 67 is connected to the one associated middle part cam 65, for example received in a receptacle or holder 70 of the middle part cam 65. The other, second end 71 of the respective spring element 66, 67 is attached to the switch housing and is received, for example, in a receptacle or holder on the opposite housing cover part 7. However, any other spring element or combination of spring elements can also be provided, as well as any other suitable attachment of the spring element to the middle part or middle part cam.

[0087] Figures 23-27 show various positions of the actuating mechanism when the switch is closed as shown in figures 1-28. The switch is thereby moved from the interruption position of the contact devices 10-15, i.e. "0" position in Figure 23, in which the respective current path is interrupted, to the contact position of the contact devices 10-15, i.e. "I" position in Figure 25, in which the respective current path is closed. Figures 24 and 26 show a tensioned position in which the two spring elements 66, 67 are tensioned.

[0088] In Figure 23, the connecting part 54 and the first rotary part 16 connected to it with its first movable contact device 14, as well as the second rotary part 17 coupled to the first rotary part 16 by the toothing 19 with its second movable contact device 15 are shown in the interruption position or "0" position.

[0089] In the interruption position, the current paths between the movable contact devices 14, 15 and the associated fixed contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13 are interrupted. This means that no current flows via the current paths.

[0090] The spring elements 66, 67 of the middle part 53 are relaxed in the interruption position ("0" position) in Figure 23. The actuating cams 64 are in contact with the middle part cams 65 in the clockwise direction of rotation.

[0091] If the actuating part 52 is now rotated clockwise from its interruption position ("0" position) in Figure 23 by the lever 62 into its contact position or ("I" position) in Figure 25, the actuating part 52 with its two actuating cams 64 rotates the middle part 53 clockwise via its middle part cams 65.

[0092] In Figure 23, the spring elements 66, 67 of the middle part 53 are initially both relaxed in the interruption position ("0" position) .

[0093] In Figure 24, the actuating part 52 rotates the middle part 53 clockwise into a tensioned position in which the spring elements 66, 67 are tensioned and the middle part 53 with its middle part cams 65 is in an actuating position for actuating the connecting part 54. In the actuating position, the middle part cams 65 rest against the rotary part cams 68.

[0094] To release the spring tension, the spring elements 66, 67 rotate the middle part 53 further clockwise into the contact position ("I" position) in Figure 25, while the actuating part 52 does not rotate any further. As the spring elements 66, 67 rotate the middle part 53 further clockwise, the middle part cams 65 rotate the connecting part 54 and the first rotary part 16 connected to it into the contact position. In the contact position, the spring elements 66, 67 are released again and the middle part 53 with its middle part cams 65 is again in an actuating position for actuating the connecting part 54.

[0095] In the contact position ("I" position), the first rotary part 16 with its first movable contact device 14 and the second rotary part 17 with its second movable contact device 15 are in electrical contact with the associated fixed contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13, so that the current paths are closed and current can flow.

[0096] In Figures 25-27, the connecting part 54 and the first rotary part 16 connected to it with its first movable contact device 14, as well as the second rotary part 17 coupled to the first rotary part 16 by the toothing 19 with its second movable contact device 15, are moved from the contact position ("I" position) in Figure 25 to the interruption position ("0" position) in Figure 27. In the interruption position, the current paths between the movable contact devices 14, 15 and the associated fixed contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13 are interrupted. This means that no current flows via the current paths.

[0097] In Figure 25, the spring elements 66, 67 of the middle part 53 are initially both relaxed in the contact position ("I" position).

[0098] The actuating part 52 rotates the middle part 53 in Figure 26 into a tensioned position, in which the spring elements 66, 67 are tensioned and the middle part 53 is in an actuating position with its middle part cams 65, for actuating the connecting part 54. In the actuating position, the middle part cams 65 are in contact with the rotary part cams 68.

[0099] To release the spring tension, the spring elements 66, 67 rotate the middle part 53 further counter-clockwise into the interruption position ("0" position) in Figure 27, while the actuating part 52 does not rotate any further. As the spring elements 66, 67 further rotate the middle part 53 counter-clockwise, the middle part cams 65 rotate the connecting part 54 and the first rotary part 16 connected to it into the interruption position. In the interruption position, the spring elements 66, 67 are again released and the middle part 53 with its middle part cams 65 is again in the actuating position for actuating the connecting part 54, as previously in Figure 23.

[0100] In the interruption position, the first rotary part 16 with its first movable contact device 14 and the second rotary part 17 with its second movable contact device 15 are out of electrical contact with the associated stationary contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13, so that the current paths are interrupted or open and no current can flow. The spring elements 66, 67 are relaxed again in the interruption position, as indicated in Figure 27.

[0101] As shown, for example, in Figures 20, 21 and 28, an additional spring element 20, for example a spiral or torsion spring, is also provided.

[0102] The function of the additional spring element 20 is to bring the shaft 59 and the lever 62 of the actuating device 8 into the correct position after the lever 62 is not further actuated and the force exerted on the lever 62 to actuate the switch 1 is thus cancelled. The absence of the torsion spring 20 could lead to an incorrect display of the positions "0" or "I". The actuating device 8 with the lever 62, the shaft 59 and in particular the combination of actuating part 52, middle part 53 with the two spring elements 66, 67 and the connecting part 54 for actuating the first rotary part 16 and the second rotary part 17 connected to it via the toothing 19 is merely an example of an actuating system. However, the invention is not limited to this particular actuating system. Other actuating systems may be provided which are adapted to be coupled or connected to the first rotary part 16 for rotating the first rotary part 16 between the contact position and the interruption position. As previously explained, the first rotary part16 is connected to the second rotary part 17 via the toothing 19 which causes the second rotary part 17 to be rotated in the opposite direction to the contact position when the first rotary part 16 is rotated to the contact position and vice versa.

[0103] Figures 29 and 30 show an embodiment of the switch 1 according to the invention described above with reference to figures 1-28. More precisely, the switch 1 has an additional position indicating device 73, 74 for the contact position ("I" position) and the interruption position ("0" position).

[0104] In the contact position ("I" position), the first rotary part 16 with its first movable contact device 14 and the second rotary part 17 with its second movable contact device 15 are in electrical contact with the associated fixed contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13, as described above with reference to figures 1-28, so that the current paths are closed and current can flow. In the interruption position ("0" position), however, the current paths are interrupted and no current flows.

[0105] As shown in Figures 29 and 30, a first additional position indicating device 73 is provided for the first rotary part 16 with its first movable contact device 14 and a second position indicating device 74 is provided for the second rotary part 17 with its second movable contact device 15. The first position indicating device is coupled to the associated first rotary part 16 and its first contact device 14 in such a way that when the first rotary part 16 with its first contact device 14 is in electrical contact with the associated fixed contact devices, the first position indicating device 73 indicates to a user that the first rotary part 16 with its first contact device 14 is in the contact position ("I" position) in which the current path is closed. Conversely, the first position indicating device 73 is coupled to the associated first rotary part 16 and its first contact device 14 in such a way that when the first rotary part 16 with its first contact device 14 is out of electrical contact with the associated fixed contact devices, the first position indicating device 73 indicates to a user that the first rotary part 16 with its first contact device 14 is now in the interruption position ("0" position) in which the current path is interrupted.

[0106] The same applies to the second position indicator device 74. The second position indicating device 74 is coupled to the associated second rotary part 17 and its second contact device 15 in such a way that when the second rotary part 17 with its second contact device 15 is in electrical contact with the associated fixed contact devices, the second position indicating device 74 indicates to a user that the second rotary part 17 with its second contact device 15 is in the contact position ("I" position) in which the current path is closed and current can flow. Conversely, the second position indicating device 74is coupled to the associated second rotary part 17 and its second contact device 15 in such a way that when the second rotary part 17 with its second contact device 15 is out of electrical contact with the associated fixed contact devices, the second position indicating device 74 indicates to a user that the second rotary part 17 with its second contact device 15 is now in the interrupted position ("0" position) in which the current path is interrupted.

[0107] The first and second position indicating device 73, 74 are coupled to the first or second rotary part 16, 17 and their first or second movable contact device 14, 15 in such a way that they reliably indicate the respective contact position ("I" position) and respective interruption position ("0" position) to a user, preferably independently of the indicated position of the lever device 9. This can additionally increase the safety of the switch 1.

[0108] The respective position indicating device 73, 74 has a rod element 75 with an actuating means, e.g. an actuating projection 76. The actuating projection 76 is attached to the rod element 75 transversely to the rod element 75 and can be actuated to rotate the rod element 75 around its longitudinal axis. An additional spring element 77 can be coupled to the rod element 75 and the actuating projection 76. An indicator element 78 is attached to the rod element 75 for the contact position ("I" position) and the interruption position ("0" position) . By actuating the actuating projection 76, the rod element 75 is rotated about its longitudinal axis and with it the indicator element 78 between the contact position ("I" position) and the interruption position ("0" position) of the respective first or second rotary part 16, 17 coupled to the position indicator device 73, 74 and its first or second movable contact device 14, 15.

[0109] By means of the spring element 77, the rod element 75 can be pre-tensioned in one direction of rotation, e.g. in the direction of the contact position ("I" position) or interruption position ("0" position) .

[0110] The indicator elements 78 can be provided to rotate out of (and / or into) indicator openings 79 of the housing, e.g. the housing cover part 7, to indicate the contact position ("I" position) and the interruption position ("0" position). In Figures 29 and 30, one indicator opening 79 for each contact movable contact device 14, 15, is arranged in the housing cover part 7. While the (optional) visual mechanical indicator element (see Figure 20) may give a first level indication of the position of the switch 1, the indicator elements 78 provide a second level of indication (i.e., an indication with higher reliability) as they are engaged (or: actuated) closer to the core mechanism of the switch 1.

[0111] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to a preferred embodiment example, it is not limited to this, but can be modified in a variety of ways. Instead of only two rotary parts, each with an associated movable contact device and two associated fixed contact devices for opening and closing two current paths, more than two rotary parts can also be provided and the first rotary part can thus actuate not only the second rotary part but also further rotary parts . The further rotary parts are each coupled to one another via toothing, such as the first and second rotary parts. Thus, not only two current paths can be opened and closed as in the embodiment example in Figures 1-30, but a plurality of current paths, e.g. four current paths in case of a 4-pole switch as shown in the example in Fig. 31.

[0112] In the principle sketch the four rotary parts 16, 17, 16* and 17* and their movable contacts 14, 15, 14*, 15* and rotary axes 57, 58, 57*, 58* of the electrical switch according to a further embodiment of the invention are illustrated. The electrical switch 1 of the embodiment as illustrated in Fig. 31 is essentially identical with the electrical switch in Figs. 1-30 so that reference is made to said Figures to avoid to avoid unnecessary repetitions in particular regarding the actuating device 8, the lever device 9, the arc extinguishing devices, the configuration of the movable contacts and the fixed contacts etc..

[0113] The electrical switch 1 if Fig. 31 differs from said switch 1 in Figs. 1-30 in that the four rotary parts 16, 17, 16*, 17* of the switch 1 in Fig. 31 are formed as a single part or as an integral part, so that they rotate in the first or same direction, and their rotary axes 57, 58, 57*, 58* are further, e.g., coaxial as shown in Fig. 31.

[0114] Further, the four rotary parts 16, 17, 16* and 17* and their movable contacts 14, 15, 14*, 15* are rotated in the contact position in Fig. 31 in which the movable contacts 14, 15, 14*, 15* electrically contact the corresponding fixed contacts 10, 11, 12, 13, 10*, 11*, 12*, 13* so that the four current paths of the 4-pole electrical switch 1 in Fig 31 are closed and current flows.

[0115] However, as described before the four rotary parts 16, 17, 16* and 17* need not to be formed as a single part or integral part but the rotary parts can be coupled with each other by a corresponding toothing, so that all rotary part rotate in the first direction or same direction to close or interrupt the four current paths of the 4-pole electrical switch 1.

[0116] The electrical switch 1 according to the invention and as described before with reference to Figs. 1-31 is not restricted to an electrical switch 1 configured for closing and interrupting only a first and a second current path in Figs. 1-30 or four current paths as in Fi. 31. Instead, the electrical switch 1 as described with reference to Figs. 1-31, can be configured for opening and interrupting more than two current paths and even more than four current paths. For example, the electrical witch 1 as described with reference to Figs. 1-30 and with respect to Fig. 31 can be configured for opening and interrupting at least a further third current path or at least a further fourth current path etc.. Thus, the electric switch 1 is not only suitable for 2- pole applications or direct current (DC) applications but can be also configured and used, e.g., for 3- or 4- pole applications, e.g. 3- or 4- pole alternating current (AC) switches or changeover switches etc..

[0117] In this connection, the electrical switch therefore comprises in a further embodiment for opening and closing at least the first and the second current path: at least two first and two second fixed contact devices 10, 11; 12, 13, at least a first movable contact device 14, which is rotatably arranged between the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11, for rotating between a contact position, in which the first movable contact device 14 electrically contacts and connects the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11 for closing a first current path, and an interruption position, in which the first movable contact device 14 is out of contact with the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11 for interrupting the first current path, at least a second movable contact device 15 rotatably arranged between the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13 for rotating between a contact position, in which the second movable contact device 15 electrically contacts and connects the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13 for closing a second current path, and an interruption position, in which the second movable contact device 15 is out of contact with the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13 for interrupting the second current path, at least a first rotating part 16 which is connected to the first movable contact device 14 and comprises a first rotary axis 57 about which the first rotating part 16 is rotatable for rotating the first movable contact device 14 between its contact position and its interruption position, at least a second rotary part 17 connected to the second movable contact device 15 and comprising a second rotary axis 58 about which the second rotary part 17 is rotatable for rotating the second movable contact device 15 between its contact position and its interruption position, and an actuating device 8, which is connected to the first rotary part 16, for jointly switching the two rotary parts 16, 17 and the first and the second movable contact device 14, 15 between their respective contact position and their interruption position, wherein the first rotary part 16 and the second rotary part 17 are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing 19 about their rotary axes 57, 58 so as to rotate the first movable contact device 14 and the second movable contact device 15 together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position, or wherein the first rotary part 16 and the second rotary part 17 form a single part or integral part so as to rotate the first movable contact device 14 and the second movable contact device 15 together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position, wherein their rotary axes 57, 58 can be coaxial or arranged axially spaced apart or axially offset from one another.

[0118] In case the electrical switch is, e.g. a 4-pole electrical switch 1, the 4-pole electrical switch comprises not only two first and two second fixed contact devices 10, 11; 12, 13, but in this case two third and fourth fixed contact devices. Said third and fourth fixed contact devices corresponds essentially to the first and second fixed contact devices and therefore comprises corresponding references signs. In this case only a "*" or "**" is added at each reference sign for parts of the 3-pole and 4-pole electric switch which are similar to the part of the 2-pole switch described with respect to Figs. 1-30 for a better differentiation. In Fig. 31 a principle sketch of a further embodiment of the switch according to the invention is illustrated, wherein the switch 1 comprises, e.g., 4 poles as will be described further below.

[0119] In case of, e.g. a 4-pole electrical switch, such electrical switch comprises for opening and closing an additional third and fourth current path: two third and two fourth fixed contact devices 10*, 11*; 12*, 13*, a third movable contact device 14*, which is rotatably arranged between the two third fixed contact devices 10*, 11*, for rotating between a contact position, in which the third movable contact device 14* electrically contacts and connects the two third fixed contact devices 10*, 11* for closing a third current path, and an interruption position, in which the third movable contact device 14* is out of contact with the two third fixed contact devices 10*, 11* for interrupting the third current path, at least a fourth movable contact device 15* rotatably arranged between the two fourth fixed contact devices 12*, 13* for rotating between a contact position, in which the fourth movable contact device 15* electrically contacts and connects the two fourth fixed contact devices 12*, 13* for closing a fourth current path, and an interruption position, in which the fourth movable contact device 15* is out of contact with the two fourth fixed contact devices 12*, 13* for interrupting the fourth current path, a third rotating part 16* which is connected to the third movable contact device 14* and comprises a third rotary axis 57* about which the third rotating part 16* is rotatable for rotating the third movable contact device 14* between its contact position and its interruption position, a fourth rotary part 17* connected to the fourth movable contact device 15* and comprising a fourth rotary axis 58* about which the fourth rotary part 17* is rotatable for rotating the fourth movable contact device 15* between its contact position and its interruption position, and the actuating device 8, which is connected to the first rotary part 16, for jointly switching the four rotary parts 16, 17, 16*, 17* and the first, second, third and fourth movable contact device 14, 15, 14*, 15* between their respective contact position and their interruption position, wherein the second rotary part 17 and the third rotary part 16* are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing 19* about their rotary axes 58, 57* and wherein the third rotary part 16* and the fourth rotary part 17* are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing 19** about their rotary axes 57*, 58* so as to rotate the second movable contact device 15, the third movable contact device 14* and the fourth movable contact device 15* together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position; or wherein the first rotary part 16, second rotary part 17, the third rotary part 16* and the fourth rotary part 17* form a single part or integral part for rotating the first, second, third and the fourth rotary parts 16, 17, 16*, 17* in the first direction, wherein the first rotary axis 57 of the first rotary part 16, the second rotary axis 58 of the second rotary part 17, the third rotary axis 57* of the third rotary part 16* and the fourth rotary axis 58* of the fourth rotary part 17* are preferably coaxially.

[0120] In Figs. 1-31 examples of an inventive electrical switch 1 are illustrated, wherein the electrical switch 1 is configured to be mounted on a panel. However, the inventive electrical switch as described above with respect to Figs. 1-31 and as claimed, can be configured to be mounted, e.g. on a busbar system, in particular directly onto a busbar system. This applies to inventive 2-pole electrical switches 1 such as DC electrical switches as well as inventive 3-pole or 4-pole electrical switches, e.g. 3-pole AC electrical switches etc..

[0121] Moreover, the inventive switch as described above with respect to Figs. 1-31 and as claimed can be also configured to be part of a switch disconnector with fuses. In other words, the inventive switch disconnector ca be provided or can be configured with at least one or two fuses.

[0122] Further, the actuating device 9 of the inventive switch as described above with respect to Figs. 1-31 and as claimed can be actuated by a motor. In the example illustrated in Figs. 1-31 the actuating device 8 comprises a lever device 9 and a lever 62 which can be manually actuated by a user. However, as mentioned before, the actuating device 8 can be also configured to be actuated by a motor to switch the electrical switch 1 between its contact position ("I" position) in which the current paths are closed and the interruption position ("0" position) in which the current paths are interrupted, so that no current flows.

[0123] In a preferred embodiment of the inventive electrical switch 1 as described above with respect to Figs. 1-31 and as claimed, the electrical switch 1 can comprise at least one additional indicator and / or pilot switch for detecting a position, preferably an on / off position, of the position indicating device 73, 74, the visual mechanical indicator element 80, the motor, the first rotary part 16, the second rotary part 17, the first movable contact device 14 and / or the second movable contact device 15. Thus, the position of the drive, e.g. motor, as well as the position of each pole of the switch can be detected and preferably send to another unit, in particular external unit, e.g. a programmable logical controller (PLC) unit etc.. The indicator and / or pilot switch of the switch preferably sends a signal or signals to an external device, preferably a programmable logic controller (PLC) unit, as mentioned before.

[0124] Moreover, in a further preferred embodiment of the inventive electrical switch 1 as described above with respect to Figs. 1-31 and as claimed, the inventive electrical switch 1 comprises at least one additional measurement device for voltage measurement, current measurement, temperature measurement and / or grid analysis. Furthermore, the inventive electrical switch 1 as described above with respect to Figs. 1-30 and as claimed, comprises at least one locking means (not shown) , for blocking the switching of the switch, wherein the locking means is preferably a lock or a seal. As shown, e.g., in Fig. 22, the lock or seal as locking means can be attached to a blocking unit 81 of the electrical switch 1, which blocks the switching of the switch 1. The blocking unit 81 is for example configured to directly and / or indirectly block the actuating of the switch in particular the rotation of the first rotary part 16, when the lock or seal is attached to the blocking unit 81. The seal as locking means has the advantage that it can be easily determined whether the switch has been manipulated or not.

[0125] As mentioned before, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments as described before with respect to Figs. 1-30, but can be modified in a variety of ways.List of reference signs

[0126] 1switch 2first toothed wheel 3second toothed wheel 4lower intermediate housing part 5housing bottom part 6upper intermediate housing part 7housing cover part 8actuating device 9lever device 10first fixed contact device 11further first fixed contact device 12second fixed contact device 13further second fixed contact device 14first movable contact device 15second movable contact device 16first rotary part 17second rotary part 18contact section of the first movable contact device 19toothing 20spring element 21contact element 22spring element (of the first or second movable contact device) 23first fixed contact element 24second fixed contact element 25first contact section 26second contact section 27connection section 28contact section of the second movable contact element 29through opening of the rotary part 30first arc extinguishing device 31further, first arc extinguishing device 32second arc extinguishing device 33further, second arc extinguishing device 34extinguishing plate 35extinguishing plate holder 36arc 37magnetic element 38contact housing 39contact housing half 40indentation (of the spring element) 41protrusion (of the contact housing half) 42receiving gap 43reinforcing element 44inner side of the contact housing half 45protrusion (of the contact housing half) 46recess of the contact element and the reinforcing element 47latching projection 48latching wing 49insertion section 50guide section 51latching receptacle 52actuating part 53middle part 54connecting part 55screw 56screw (switch housing) 57first rotary axis 58second rotary axis 59shaft 60square section 61holder (actuating part) 62lever 63holder (first rotating part) 64actuating cam 65middle part cam 66spring element (of the middle part cam) 67spring element (of the middle part cam) 68rotary part cam 69first end of the spring element 70middle part cam holder 71second end of the spring element 72protrusion (of contact element) 73first position indicating device 74second position indicating device 75rod element 76actuating projection 77spring element 78indicator element 79indicator openings of the housing 80visual mechanical indicator element 81blocking unit

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0030]Figure 1 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of an electrical switch 1 according to the invention, in particular a load-break switch, such as a DC load-break switch. Figures 2 and 3 each show an exploded view of the electrical switch according to Figure 1, whereby, in contrast to Figure 1, an actuation system for actuating the switch 1 is not shown for reasons of clarity.

[0031]Figures 4-8 each show sections of fixed and movable contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 of the switch 1 as shown in Figures 1-3, which are described in more detail below.

[0032]The electrical switch 1 as a load-break switch is used to connect and disconnect a load from an electrical energy source, e.g., a photovoltaic system, etc., whereby the respective movable contact moves in relation to other fixed or stationary contacts so that, when the circuit is closed, the movable contacts come into electrical contact with the fixed or stationary contacts, whereby a load and an energy source are electrical...

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to an electrical switch, in particular a load-break switch, preferably a direct current load-break switch.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] EP 3 144 950 A1 discloses a switch which comprises at least one fixed contact and at least one moving contact that can move between a closed position and an open position, and at least one permanent magnet mounted together with the moving contact, such that the permanent magnet and the moving contact are able to move at the same time. The magnetic field of the magnet interferes with the area where the arc occurs and moves with the moving contact along its path, so with a small number of magnets, arc quenching capacity increases.

[0003] However, the electrical switch has the disadvantage that it requires a lot of installation space because several pairs of fixed contacts are arranged next to each other in a row, with a moving contact being provided between each pair.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved electrical switch, in particular a load-break switch.

[0005] According to the invention, this object is solved by an electrical switch having the features of claim 1. Accordingly, the following is provided: An electrical switch, in particular a load-break switch, comprising: at least two first and two second fixed contact devices, at least one first movable contact device, which is rotatably arranged between the two first fixed contact devices, for rotating between a contact position, in which the first movable contact device electrically contacts and connects the two first fixed contact devices for closing a first current path, and an interruption position, in which the first movable contact device is out of contact with the two first fixed contact devices for interrupting the first current path, at least one second movable contact device, which is rotatably arranged between the two second fixed contact devices for rotating between a contact position, in which the second movable contact device electrically contacts and connects the two second fixed contact devices for closing a second current path, and an interruption position, in which the second movable contact device is out of contact with the two second fixed contact devices for interrupting the second current path, at least one first rotating part which is connected to the first movable contact device and comprises a first rotary axis about which the first rotating part is rotatable for rotating the first movable contact device between its contact position and its interruption position, at least one second rotary part, which is connected to the second movable contact device and comprises a second rotary axis about which the second rotary part is rotatable for rotating the second movable contact device between its contact position and its interruption position, and an actuating device, which is connected to the first rotary part, for jointly switching the two rotary parts and their movable contact devices between their respective contact position and their interruption position, wherein the first rotary part and the second rotary part are rotatably connected to one another, preferably via toothing about their axes of rotation or as a single part or integral part, in such a way that the first movable contact device and the second movable contact device can be rotated together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position.

[0006] By means of the toothing of the first and second rotary parts, which comprise the first and second movable contact devices respectively, the first and second movable contact devices can be switched simultaneously and thus synchronously between their contact position and their interruption position. The gear system consisting of the first and second rotary parts with their toothing allows greater accuracy when switching between the contact position and the interruption position of the first and second movable contact devices. The play in the toothing can be minimized so that both the first and the second rotary part operate simultaneously and the moving contacts leave the fixed contacts at the same time with a maximum delay of 1 millisecond. The same applies when the first and secondary parts form a single part or an integral part, wherein their axes of rotation are preferably coaxial. The first rotary part and the second rotary part form a single or integral part so as to rotate the first movable contact device and the second movable contact device together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position.

[0007] Advantageous embodiments and further embodiments of the invention are shown in the further sub-claims and in the description with reference to the drawing.

[0008] In one embodiment of the invention, the first movable contact device is rotatable in a first direction and the second movable contact device is rotatable in a second, opposite direction between the contact position and the interruption position. Preferably the first rotary part is arranged with its first rotary axis axially spaced apart from the second rotary part and its second rotary axis and is rotatably connected to the second rotary part via the toothing. The first rotary part having a first toothed wheel as the toothing, in particular at a first longitudinal end, and the second rotary part having a second toothed wheel, in particular at a second opposite longitudinal end, which are engaged with one another for rotating the first and the second rotary parts in the respective opposite first and second directions.

[0009] In another embodiment of the invention, the first movable contact device rotates in a first direction and the second movable contact device rotates in the first or same direction. Preferably the first rotary part is arranged with its first rotary axis axially spaced apart from the second rotary part and its second rotary axis and is rotatably connected to the second rotary part via the toothing. The first rotary part having a first toothed wheel as the toothing, in particular at a first longitudinal end, and the second rotary part having a second toothed wheel, in particular at a second opposite longitudinal end, and at least one additional gear wheel is provided which couples the first and the second toothed wheel for rotating the first and the second rotary parts in the first direction or same direction.

[0010] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first rotary part is arranged with its first rotary axis axially spaced from the second rotary part and its second rotary axis and is rotatably connected to the second rotary part via the toothing, the first rotary part comprising a first toothed wheel, in particular at a first longitudinal end, and the second rotary part comprising a second toothed wheel, in particular at a second opposite longitudinal end, which are in engagement with one another for rotating the two rotary parts in the respective opposite first and second directions.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the invention, the each of the two first fixed contact devices comprise a first fixed contact element which provides a first contact section, the first fixed contact element being in particular a first fixed, elongate plate-shaped contact element. In another embodiment of the invention each of the two second fixed contact devices comprise a second fixed contact element which provides a second contact section, the second fixed contact element being in particular a second fixed, elongate plate-shaped contact element.

[0012] In one embodiment of the invention, at least the first movable contact device or the second movable contact device comprises a first and a second rolling contact, in particular a first and a second cylindrical rolling contact, wherein the movable contact device in the contact position electrically contacts the one fixed electrical contact device with its first rolling contact and electrically contacts the other fixed electrical contact device with the second rolling contact.

[0013] In another embodiment of the invention, the first movable contact device comprises at least one contact element with two contact sections, in particular two opposing contact sections. In the contact position, the first movable contact device electrically contacts the first fixed electrical contact device with one contact section and electrically contacts the other first fixed electrical contact device with the other contact section. The second movable contact device comprises two contact sections, in particular two opposing contact sections. In the contact position, one contact section of the second movable contact device makes electrical contact with the second, fixed electrical contact device and the other contact section makes electrical contact with the other, second fixed electrical contact device.

[0014] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first or second movable contact device comprises a contact housing with two contact elements, wherein an associated contact element of the first or second fixed contact device can be received between the two contact elements and can be electrically contacted when the first or second movable contact device is in its contact position. The movable contact device can be received and fastened with its respective contact housing, for example in a through opening of the associated rotary part, e.g., can be latched to the latter.

[0015] In another embodiment of the invention, the two contact elements are arranged opposite one another in the contact housing. Two spring elements are provided in the contact housing, which pretension the two contact elements. Between the respective spring element and the associated contact element, for example, an optional additional reinforcing element is provided for reinforcing the contact element.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the invention, the contact housing can be latched to the rotary part for fastening the movable contact device to the rotary part. The contact housing comprises, for example, at least one latching element, for example a spring-loaded or elastic latching element, and an associated latching receptacle. The through opening of the rotary part comprises, for example, at least one latching projection which co-operates with the latching element in such a way that the latching projection engages in the latching receptacle when the contact housing has reached its predetermined installation position in the through opening of the rotary part.

[0017] In one embodiment of the invention, the contact housing comprises an insertion section and a guide section. The insertion or slide-in section comprises the at least one latching element. The latching receptacle is configured between the slide-in section and the guide section for latching the associated latching projection of the rotary part in the installation position.

[0018] In a further embodiment of the invention, the switch comprises two first arc extinguishing devices for the first movable contact device and the two first fixed contact devices. The switch comprises two second arc extinguishing devices for the second movable contact device and the two second fixed contact devices. Each arc extinguishing device comprises at least one magnetic element and at least two, three or more extinguishing plates. The extinguishing plates are arranged between the respective fixed contact device and the associated movable contact device in such a way as to extinguish an arc with the associated magnetic element.

[0019] In another embodiment of the invention, the switch comprises an actuating device which is connected to the first rotary part and, via the toothing, to the second rotary part for rotating the first and second rotary parts together between their contact position and their interruption position. The actuating device comprises, for example, a motor to switch the switch for opening and closing the at least first and second current path, and / or a lever device which is rotatably connected to the rotating part, wherein the lever device comprises, for example, a shaft and a lever attached to the shaft. The shaft is, for example, rotatable by the motor and / or the lever.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first rotating part can be rotated by the motor and / or the lever device between the contact position and the interruption position. The lever device and the first rotary part are rotatably connected via an actuating part with two actuating cams, a middle part with two middle part cams and a connecting part with two rotary part cams, in particular mutually rotatably connected to one another, and comprise a common rotary axis. The common rotary axis corresponds to the first rotary axis. The actuating part is firmly connected to the first rotary part, for example by means of a screw, a (e.g. square) pin / hole arrangement, or configured in one piece with it. The middle part can be rotated independently of the connecting part by the actuating part with its actuating cams, whereby the connecting part can be rotated independently of the actuating part by the middle part with its middle part cams. The middle part is connected to two spring elements, one end of the respective spring element being attached to the middle part, in particular its middle part cams, and the other end of the respective spring element being attached in the housing of the switch, in particular to a housing cover part.

[0021] In one embodiment of the invention, the middle part can be rotated by the actuating part into a tensioned position in which the spring elements of the middle part are sufficiently tensioned in such a way that the spring elements rotate the middle part and the connecting part coupled to it by the middle part cams further into the contact position or further into the interruption position. The rotation or further rotation of the middle part by the spring elements takes place independently of the actuating part, which does not continue to rotate.

[0022] In one embodiment of the invention, the switch comprises at least one additional indicator and / or pilot switch for detecting a position, preferably an on / off position, of the position indicating device, the visual mechanical indicator element, of the motor, of the first rotary part, the second rotary part, the first movable contact device and / or the second movable contact device.

[0023] In a further embodiment of the invention, the switch comprises at least one additional measurement device for voltage, current, temperature and / or grid analysis.

[0024] In another embodiment of the invention, the at least one indicator and / or pilot switch of the switch is preferably configured to send at least one signal or signals to an external device, preferably a programmable logic controller (PLC) unit.

[0025] In an embodiment of the invention, the switch comprises at least one locking means, for blocking the switching of the switch, wherein the locking means is preferably a lock or a seal.

[0026] In an embodiment of the invention, the electrical further comprises for opening and closing at least an additional third current path: two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*), a third movable contact device (14*), which is rotatably arranged between the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*), for rotating between a contact position, in which the third movable contact device (14*) electrically contacts and connects the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*) for closing a third current path, and an interruption position, in which the third movable contact device (14*) is out of contact with the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*) for interrupting the third current path, a third rotating part (16*) which is connected to the third movable contact device (14*) and comprises a third rotary axis (57*) about which the third rotating part (16*) is rotatable for rotating the third movable contact device (14*) between its contact position and its interruption position, and the actuating device (8), which is connected to the first rotary part (16), for jointly switching the three rotary parts (16, 17, 16*) and the first, second and the third movable contact device (14, 15, 14*) between their respective contact position and their interruption position, wherein the second rotary part (17) and the third rotary part (16*) are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing (19*) about their rotary axes (58, 57*) so as to rotate the first movable contact device (14), the second movable contact device (15) and the third movable contact device (14*) together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position; or wherein the first rotary part (16), second rotary part (17) and third rotary part (16*) form a single part or integral part for rotating the first, second and the third rotary parts (16, 17, 16*) in the first direction, wherein the first rotary axis (57) of the first rotary part (16), the second rotary axis (58) of the second rotary part (17) and the third rotary axis (57*) of the third rotary part (16*) are preferably coaxially.

[0027] In an embodiment of the invention the electrical switch further comprises for opening and closing the third and the fourth current path: two third and two fourth fixed contact devices (10*, 11*; 12*, 13*), a third movable contact device (14*), which is rotatably arranged between the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*), for rotating between a contact position, in which the third movable contact device (14*) electrically contacts and connects the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*) for closing a third current path, and an interruption position, in which the third movable contact device (14*) is out of contact with the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*) for interrupting the third current path, at least a fourth movable contact device (15*) rotatably arranged between the two fourth fixed contact devices (12*, 13*) for rotating between a contact position, in which the fourth movable contact device (15*) electrically contacts and connects the two fourth fixed contact devices (12*, 13*) for closing a fourth current path, and an interruption position, in which the fourth movable contact device (15*) is out of contact with the two fourth fixed contact devices (12*, 13*) for interrupting the fourth current path, a third rotating part (16*) which is connected to the third movable contact device (14*) and comprises a third rotary axis (57*) about which the third rotating part (16*) is rotatable for rotating the third movable contact device (14*) between its contact position and its interruption position, a fourth rotary part (17*) connected to the fourth movable contact device (15*) and comprising a fourth rotary axis (58*) about which the fourth rotary part (17*) is rotatable for rotating the fourth movable contact device (15*) between its contact position and its interruption position, and the actuating device (8), which is connected to the first rotary part (16), for jointly switching the four rotary parts (16, 17, 16*, 17*) and the first, second, third and fourth movable contact device (14, 15, 14*, 15*) between their respective contact position and their interruption position, wherein the second rotary part (17) and the third rotary part (16*) are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing (19*) about their rotary axes (58, 57*) and wherein the third rotary part (16*) and the fourth rotary part (17*) are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing (19**) about their rotary axes (57*, 58*) so as to rotate the second movable contact device (15), the third movable contact device (14*) and the fourth movable contact device (15*) together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position; or or wherein the first rotary part (16), second rotary part (17), the third rotary part (16*) and the fourth rotary part (17*) form a single part or integral part for rotating the first, second, third and the fourth rotary parts (16, 17, 16*, 17*) in the first direction, wherein the first rotary axis (57) of the first rotary part (16), the second rotary axis (58) of the second rotary part (17), the third rotary axis (57*) of the third rotary part (16*) and the fourth rotary axis (58*) of the fourth rotary part (17*) are preferably coaxially. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the embodiment example shown in the figures in the drawing: It shows: Figure 1 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of a switch according to the invention; Figure 2 an exploded view of the switch 1 according to the invention as shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 is another exploded view of the switch 1 according to the invention as shown in Figures 1 and 2; Figure 4 a top view of the lower intermediate housing part with the first movable contact device, the two first fixed contact devices and the two first arc extinguishing devices of the switch as shown in Figures 1-3, with the movable contact devices rotated to the interruption position; Figure 5 a perspective view of the first and second movable contact devices in the interruption position of the switch according to Figures 1-4; Figure 6 a top view of the interruption position according to Figure 5; Figure 7 a perspective view of the first and second movable contact devices in the contact position of the switch as shown in Figures 1-4; Figure 8 a top view of the contact position according to Figure 7; Figure 9 an exploded view of the first movable contact device 14 of the switch 1 according to Figures 1-8; Figure 10 a perspective view of the first rotary part; Figure 11 a perspective view of one half of the contact housing and of a spring element of the movable contact device as shown in Figure 9, before assembly; Figure 12 a perspective view of the half of the contact housing as shown in Figure 11, after assembly; Figure 13 a perspective view of the contact housing half and the spring element according to Figure 12 with the reinforcing element and the contact element, before assembly; Figure 14 a top view of the arrangement according to Figure 13 after assembly; Figure 15 a sectional view A-A of the arrangement according to Figure 14; Figure 16 a perspective view of the arrangement according to Figures 14 and 15; Figure 17 a perspective view of the fully assembled, movable contact device as shown in Figures 1-16; Figure 18 a side view of the first rotating part with the first movable contact device attached thereto as shown in Figures 1-17; Figure 19 a sectional view B-B of the first rotary part and its first movable contact device as shown in Figure 18; Figure 20 an exploded view of the actuating device of the switch as shown in Figures 1-19; Figure 21 an exploded view of the actuating device of the switch according to Figure 20; Figure 22 a perspective view of the actuating device of the switch as shown in Figures 1-19; Figure 23 a perspective view of the actuating device of the switch as shown in Figures 1-22, in the "0" position or interruption position; Figure 24 a perspective view of the actuating device as shown in Figure 23 in a tensioned position in which the spring elements are tensioned to close the switch; Figure 25 a perspective view of the actuating device according to Figures 23 and 24 in the "I" position or contact position; Figure 26 a perspective view of the actuating device according to Figures 23-25 in a tensioned position in which the spring elements are tensioned to open the switch; Figure 27 a perspective view of the actuating device of the switch as shown in Figures 23-26, in the "0" position or interruption position; Figure 28 a section of a part of the actuating device of the switch according to Figures 1-27; Figure 29 an exploded view of an embodiment of the switch according to the invention described above with reference to Figures 1-28; and Figure 30 a perspective view of the switch according to Figure 30, wherein the housing cover part is removed so that two position indicating devices are visible, and Fig. 31 a principle sketch of a further embodiment of the switch according to the invention.

[0029] In all figures of the drawing, identical or functionally identical elements - unless otherwise indicated - have been given the same reference signs.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0030] Figure 1 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of an electrical switch 1 according to the invention, in particular a load-break switch, such as a DC load-break switch. Figures 2 and 3 each show an exploded view of the electrical switch according to Figure 1, whereby, in contrast to Figure 1, an actuation system for actuating the switch 1 is not shown for reasons of clarity.

[0031] Figures 4-8 each show sections of fixed and movable contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 of the switch 1 as shown in Figures 1-3, which are described in more detail below.

[0032] The electrical switch 1 as a load-break switch is used to connect and disconnect a load from an electrical energy source, e.g., a photovoltaic system, etc., whereby the respective movable contact moves in relation to other fixed or stationary contacts so that, when the circuit is closed, the movable contacts come into electrical contact with the fixed or stationary contacts, whereby a load and an energy source are electrically connected and a current flow is thereby enabled. If the movable contacts are moved so that they are again out of electrical contact with the fixed or stationary contacts, the current flow is interrupted and the load is disconnected from the electrical energy source.

[0033] As shown in Figures 1-8, the electrical switch 1 in the embodiment example according to the invention comprises, for example, two first fixed contact devices 10, 11 and, for example, two second fixed contact devices 12, 13. Furthermore, the electrical switch comprises a first movable contact device 14, which is rotatably arranged between the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11, for rotating between a contact position, in which the first movable contact device 14 electrically contacts and connects the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11 for closing a first current path, and an interruption position, in which the first movable contact device 14 is out of contact with the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11 for interrupting the first current path.

[0034] In addition, the electrical switch 1 comprises a second movable contact device 15, which is rotatably arranged between the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13, for rotating between a contact position, in which the second movable contact device 15 electrically contacts and connects the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13 for closing a second current path, and an interruption position, in which the second movable contact device 15 is out of contact with the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13, for interrupting the second current path.

[0035] The respective contact position is shown by way of example in Figures 7 and 8 and the respective interruption position is shown by way of example in Figures 4, 5 and 6.

[0036] Further, the electrical switch 1 comprises a first rotary part 16, which is connected to the first movable contact device 14. The first rotary part 16 comprises a first rotary axis 57 about which the first rotary part 16 is rotatable for rotating the first movable contact device 14 between its contact position and its interruption position.

[0037] Further, the electrical switch comprises a second rotary part 17, which is connected to the second movable contact device 15. The second rotary part 17 comprises a second rotary axis 58, about which the second rotary part 17 is rotatable, for rotating the second movable contact device 15 between its contact position and its interruption position.

[0038] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the electrical switch 1 comprises an actuating device 8, which is connected to the first rotary part 16, for jointly switching the two rotary parts 16, 17 and their movable contact devices 10-15 between their respective contact position and their interruption position.

[0039] The first fixed contact devices 10, 11, the first movable contact device 14 and the first rotary part 16 are arranged in a lower intermediate housing part 4 of a switch housing of the switch 1, as shown, for example, in Figure 1. The second fixed contact devices 12, 13, the second movable contact device 15 and the second rotary part 17 are arranged in a housing bottom part 5 of the switch housing, as shown, for example, in Figure 1. The actuating device 8 is arranged in an upper housing part 6 and a lever device 9 of the actuating device, described below, is guided outwards through a housing cover part 7 for actuating the switch 1 by means of the actuating device 8. In addition to the lever device 9 and its lever 62 or instead of the lever device 9 and in particular instead of its lever 62, the actuating device 8 can be further configured to be driven by a motor to switch the electrical switch 1 between its contact position ("I" position) in which the current paths are closed and the interruption position ("0" position) in which the current paths are interrupted, so that no current flows.

[0040] As shown in Figure 1, two actuating positions "I" for a contact position and "0" for an interruption position are indicated on the outside of the housing cover part 7. These are described in more detail below. The switch housing is thus made up of these housing parts 4, 5, 6 and 7, which are fastened together, for example by means of screws 56 and / or the like.

[0041] The first rotating part 16 and the second rotating part 17 are rotatably connected to each other about their rotary axes 57, 58 via toothing 19 in such a way that the first movable contact device 14 rotates in a first direction and the second movable contact device 15 rotates in a second, opposite direction, between its contact position and in its interruption position. In other words, if the first rotary part 16 rotates in the first direction, for example clockwise, the second rotary part 17, which is connected to the first rotary part 16 by the toothing 19, rotates in the second, opposite direction, in this case anti-clockwise. Conversely, when the first rotary part 16 rotates anti-clockwise, the toothing 19 causes the second rotary part 17 connected to it to rotate clockwise.

[0042] In the example in Figures 1-8, the first rotary part 16 with its first rotary axis 57 and the second rotary part 17 with its second rotary axis 58 are arranged axially spaced apart or axially offset from one another and are rotatably connected to the second rotary part 17 via the toothing 19, in particular rotatably engaged. As toothing 19, the first rotary part 16 and the second rotary part 17 each comprise, for example, a first or second toothed wheel 2, 3. The first toothed wheel 2 is provided, for example, at one end of the first rotary part 16 and the second toothed wheel 3 at an opposite end of the second rotary part 17. Both toothed wheels 2, 3 are in engagement with one another for rotating the two rotary parts 16, 17 in the respective opposite first and second directions. However, the invention is not limited to this specific embodiment. More than two toothed wheels can also be provided, which are coupled to one another in such a way that the two rotary parts 16, 17 can be rotated in opposite directions. This applies to all embodiments of the invention.

[0043] In an alternative embodiment of the invention not shown, the first movable contact device 14 rotates in a first direction and the second movable contact device 15 rotates in the first or same direction. In this case the first rotary part 16 is arranged with its first rotary axis 57 axially spaced apart from the second rotary part 17 and its second rotary axis 58 and is rotatably connected to the second rotary part 17 via the toothing 19, the first rotary part 16 having the first toothed wheel 2 as the toothing 19, in particular at a first longitudinal end, and the second rotary part 17 having a second toothed wheel 3, in particular at a second opposite longitudinal end, and at least one additional gear wheel which couples the first and the second toothed wheel 2, 3 for rotating the first and the second rotary parts 16, 17 in the first direction. In case the switch 1 is configured to open and close more than two current paths, for each additional current part an additional module is provided comprising a further rotary part, e.g. , a third rotary part, and two corresponding third fixed contact devices etc.. The third rotary part is rotatable connected to the second rotary part which is rotatable connected to the first rotary part, so that at least all three rotary parts can be rotated together between the interruption position, in which their corresponding current path is interrupted and no current flows and their corresponding contact position in which their current paths are closed so that current flows. Dependent on the intended number of poles, the 2-pole switch 1 as described with respect to the Figs. 1-31 can easily be extended to a switch with more than two poles, e.g. three, four or more poles.

[0044] At least one or both toothed wheels 2, 3 can be configured in one piece with the respective rotary part 16, 17 or can be attached to it as a separate component or coupled to it. In the embodiment example in Figures 1-29, the two toothed wheels 2, 3 are arranged, for example, at opposite ends or longitudinal ends of the rotary parts 16, 17.

[0045] The two first and two second fixed contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13 each comprise two first and two second fixed contact elements 23, 24, respectively, which each provide two first and two second contact sections 25, 26 and two first and two second connection sections 27, respectively. The connection sections 27 are used to connect the switch 1 to an electrical device, e.g., an electrical energy consumption device (for example in a DC industrial application such as for galvanic plating, DC motors etc.), an electrical energy source or electrical energy generation device such as a photovoltaic system and / or the like. This enables the electrical switch 1 to electrically connect electrical devices, such as an electrical energy consumption device and an electrical energy generation device, to each other and, if necessary, to electrically disconnect them from each other.

[0046] The two first and two second fixed contact elements 23, 24 are, for example, two first and two second elongate, plate-shaped contact elements which are positioned and fixed in the housing bottom part 5 and the lower intermediate housing part 4 of the electrical switch 1, as shown in Figures 1 and 4 for the two first and second fixed contact elements 23, 24 by way of example.

[0047] The first movable contact device 14 comprises at least one contact element 21 with two contact sections 18, in particular two opposing contact sections. In the contact position, one contact section 18 of the first movable contact device 14 makes electrical contact with the first fixed electrical contact device 10 and the other contact section 18 makes electrical contact with the other first fixed electrical contact device 11.

[0048] The second movable contact device 15 comprises two contact sections 28, in particular two opposing contact sections. In the contact position, one contact section 28 of the second movable contact device 15 makes electrical contact with the second fixed electrical contact device 12 and the other contact section 28 makes electrical contact with the other, second fixed electrical contact device 13.

[0049] The first or second movable contact device 14, 15 comprises a contact housing 38 with two contact elements 21. An associated contact element 23, 24 of the first or second fixed contact device 10, 11 can be accommodated or received between the two contact elements 21 and can be electrically contacted when the first or second movable contact device 14, 15 is in its contact position. The structure of the first or second movable contact device 14, 15 is explained in more detail below with reference to Figures 9-19.

[0050] The contact housing 38 can, for example, be accommodated and fastened as a separate component in a through-opening 29 of the first or second rotary part 16, 17, as shown in Figures 9-19 below.

[0051] For actuating the electrical switch 1 and moving the first rotary part 16 with its first movable contact device 14 between the contact position and the interruption position, the actuating system comprises the actuating device 8. The actuating device 8 is connected to the first rotary part 16 for switching or rotating the first rotary part 16 and the second rotary part 17 connected to it with their movable contact devices 14, 15 between their respective contact position and their interruption position.

[0052] The actuating device 8 comprises, for example, the lever device 9, which is coupled to the first rotary part 16 in such a way as to rotate the first rotary part 16 about its rotary axis 57 with its first movable contact device 14 between its contact position, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, and its interruption position, as shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6. When the first rotating part 16 is rotated by actuating or rotating the lever device 9, it rotates the second rotary part 17 connected to it via the toothing 19 and its second contact device 15 in the opposite direction, also between its contact position, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, and its interruption position, as shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6. In other words, if the first rotary part 16 with its first contact device 14 is rotated into its contact position, e.g. clockwise, it rotates the second rotary part 17 with its second contact device 15 via the toothing 19 in the opposite direction, i.e. anti-clockwise, into its contact position and vice versa. This means that if the first rotary part 16 is rotated with its first contact device 14 into its contact position, the second rotary part 17 is simultaneously rotated with its second contact device 15 into its contact position. Conversely, if the first rotary part 16 is rotated with its first contact device 14 into its interruption position, the second rotary part 17 is also simultaneously rotated with its second contact device 15 into its interruption position.

[0053] The actuating system with its actuating device 8 is explained in more detail below with reference to Figures 20-28.

[0054] As shown in Figures 1 to 8, the electrical switch 1 comprises two first and two second arc extinguishing devices 30, 31, 32, 33 for extinguishing a respective possible arc. Each of the two first or two second arc extinguishing devices 30, 31 or 32, 33 comprises at least two, three or more extinguishing plates 34, e. g., C-shaped extinguishing plates, which are each arranged in a region between the respective first fixed contact device 10 or 11 and the movable contact device 14. The extinguishing plates 34 are arranged in a row along which the movable contact device can move between its contact position and its interruption position. The C-shaped extinguishing plates 34 arranged in a row in the embodiment example shown in Figures 1-8 form a channel along which the movable contact device can move between its contact position and its interruption position.

[0055] For example, the extinguishing plates 34 of the first arc extinguishing device 30 are arranged between the contact section 25 of the first fixed contact device 10 and the associated contact section 28 of the first movable contact device 14. Correspondingly, the extinguishing plates 34 of the first arc extinguishing device 31 are arranged between the contact section 25 of the other, first fixed contact device 11 and the other contact section 28 of the first movable contact device 14.

[0056] For example, the extinguishing plates 34 of the second arc extinguishing device 32 are arranged between the contact section 26 of the second fixed contact device 12 and the associated contact section 28 of the second movable contact device 15. Correspondingly, the extinguishing plates 34 of the further, second arc extinguishing device 33 are arranged between the contact section 26 of the other second, fixed contact device 13 and the other contact section 28 of the second movable contact device 15. The extinguishing plates 34, for instance C-shaped extinguishing plates, are received and positioned in corresponding extinguishing plate holders 35 in the respective housing bottom part 5 or lower intermediate housing part 4 of the switch 1.

[0057] When opening the contacts 10-15, i.e. when moving the movable contact device 14 or 15 into the interruption position, an arc 36 can form, as indicated in Figure 4. The arc 36 must be extinguished as quickly as possible to prevent damage to the switch 1. Such damage to the switch 1 can be caused by high temperatures and a corresponding internal pressure due to the arc 36. The arc is very difficult to extinguish, especially with direct current.

[0058] Therefore, each of the arc extinguishing devices 30, 31, 32, 33 comprises at least one magnetic element 37 which is positioned with respect to the extinguishing plates 34 of the associated extinguishing device 30, 31, 32, 33 in such a way as to force an occurring arc 36 into the so-called arc chambers between the extinguishing plates 34 in order to divide the arc 36 into smaller arcs, cool it down and extinguish it. The respective arcing chamber is formed by two neighboring or adjacent arcing plates 34. Holes in the housing are provided as gas outlets.

[0059] Figure 9 shows an exploded view of the first movable contact device 14 as used in the switch 1 as shown in Figures 1-8. The structure of the first and second movable contact devices 14, 15 is preferably identical, so that reference is made to the explanations of Figure 9 and the following Figures 11-19 with regard to the structure of the second movable contact device 15 in order to avoid unnecessary repetitions. Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the first rotary part 16.

[0060] Figures 11-19 show individual assembly steps of one half of the movable contact device as shown in Figure 9. Figure 11 shows a perspective view of a contact housing half 39 and a spring element 22 of the movable contact device 14 according to Figure 9, before assembly and Figure 12 after assembly. Figure 13 shows a perspective view of the contact housing half 39 and the spring element 22 according to Figure 12 with the reinforcing element 43 and the contact element 21, before assembly. Figure 14 again shows a top view of the arrangement comprising contact housing half 39, spring element 22, reinforcing element 43 and contact element 21 as shown in Figure 13 after assembly, and Figure 15 shows a sectional view A-A of this arrangement as shown in Figure 14. Figure 16 shows a perspective view of the arrangement as shown in Figures 14 and 15. Figure 17 shows a perspective view of the fully assembled, movable contact device 14 as shown in Figures 1-16. Further, Figure 18 shows a side view of the first rotary part 16 with the first movable contact device 14 attached thereto as shown in Figures 1-17. Figure 19 shows a sectional view B-B of the first rotary part 16 and its first movable contact device 14 as shown in Figure 18.

[0061] The first movable contact device 14 comprises the contact housing 38, which is configured, for example, from two contact housing halves 39, as shown, for example, in Figure 17. A spring element 22 and a contact element 21 are provided in each of the two contact housing halves 39. An additional reinforcing element 43 is optionally provided between the spring element 22 and the contact element 21 for reinforcing the contact element 21. The two contact elements 21 of the first movable contact device 14 each form the contact section 28 at their two longitudinal ends. In other words, the first movable contact device 14 comprises the corresponding contact section 28 at each longitudinal end, which is formed by the two contact elements 21 for receiving and electrically contacting the respectively assigned contact section 25 of the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11. The same applies to the second movable contact device 15 and its contact sections 28 at its longitudinal end for receiving and electrically contacting the contact sections 26 of the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13.

[0062] In the assembled state, the spring elements 22 of the two housing halves 39 pretension the contact elements 21 against each other. In this way, reliable electrical contact can be ensured between the contact sections 25 and 26 of the first and second fixed contact devices 10, 11 and 12, 13 respectively, which are located between the contact elements 21. The two contact elements 21 are configured in such a way that, when mounted, they form a receiving gap 42 for receiving the respective contact section 25, 26 of the fixed contact device 10, 11, 12, 13. The two contact elements 21 are configured as flat or plate-shaped contact elements 21. At least one of the contact elements 21 comprises a protrusion 72 with which it rests on the opposite contact element 21 for adjusting the receiving gap 42. In the embodiment example as shown in Figures 9-19, for example, each of the contact elements 21 comprises one or here, for example, two protrusions 72 for adjusting the receiving gap 42. Depending on the desired receiving gap 42, the protrusions 72 of the two contact elements 21 can rest on one another. In this case, the protrusions 72 of the two contact elements 21 are arranged exactly opposite each other in the mounted position in the contact housing 38.

[0063] The contact elements 21 can, for example, be configured as electrically conductive metal plates and the respective protrusion 72 can be embossed into the metal plate, as is indicated, for example, in Figures 9 and 14.

[0064] In an alternative embodiment of the invention not shown at least the first movable contact device 14 or the second movable contact device 15 comprises a first and a second rolling contact, in particular a first and a second cylindrical rolling contact. The corresponding movable contact device 14; 15 electrically contacts with its first rolling contact in the contact position the one fixed electrical contact device 10; 12 and electrically contacts the other fixed electrical contact device 11; 13 with the second rolling contact. In a further embodiment at least the first or second rolling contact of at least the first or second movable contact 14, 15 can be configured as two rolling contact elements providing a gap in between, similar to the contact elements 21 in Fig. 18, to receive the corresponding fixed contact device 10, 12 to electrically contact said fixed contact device, when the movable contact is rotated in the contact position to close the corresponding current path.

[0065] The optional reinforcing element 43 is also configured, for example, as a flat or plate-shaped reinforcing element. The reinforcing element 43 is e.g. steel, the spring element 22 is also, e.g. steel, the contact element 21 is e.g. copper or silver-plated copper and / or the contact housing 38 is, e.g., plastic. However, the invention is not limited to said examples and any other suitable material or material combination can be used for the parts depending on the function and intended use.

[0066] The respective contact housing half 39 and the spring element 22 are configured to be pluggable together, for example, in order to position the spring element 22 in the contact housing half 39. The spring element 22, e.g. a V-shaped spring element as shown in the figures, comprises an indentation 40 with which the spring element 22 can be plugged onto a corresponding protrusion 41 and thus be positioned. In the embodiment example shown in the figures, the indentation 40 is configured at the tip of the V-shaped, e.g. symmetrical, spring element 22. Conversely, the contact housing half 39 can also comprise the indentation and the spring element 22 the protrusion.

[0067] The contact element 21 and the contact housing half 39 and the optional reinforcing element 43 are configured to be pluggable together, for example, for positioning the contact element 21 or the reinforcing element 43 in the contact housing half 39. For example, the contact housing half 39 comprises a respective protrusion 45 on at least one inner side 44 or both opposite inner sides, which can be accommodated ore received in a corresponding recess 46 of the contact element 21 and the optional reinforcing element 43. This has the advantage that the contact element 21 and the optional reinforcing element 43 can be positioned and held in the contact housing half 39 in the same way as the spring element 22 beforehand. Conversely, it is also conceivable that the contact housing half 39 comprises the recess or indentation and the contact element 21 and the optional reinforcing element 43 comprise the protrusion.

[0068] The two contact housing halves 39 with the spring elements 22, contact elements 21 and reinforcing elements 43 accommodated therein are configured so that they can be plugged together and / or latched together, for example, to provide the fully assembled movable contact device 14, 15.

[0069] To install the respective movable contact device 14, 15 in the associated rotary part 16, 17, the contact housing 38 and the associated rotary part 14, 15 are configured in the embodiment of the switch 1 shown in Figures 1-19, for example so that they can be latched together.

[0070] The rotary part 16 or 17 comprises the aforementioned through opening 29, into which the movable contact device 14 or 15 is inserted and pushed through. The movable contact device 14 or 15 is pushed through the through opening 29 until both longitudinal ends of the movable contact device 14 or 15 protrude sufficiently with their contact sections 18, 28 for electrical contacting of the fixed contact devices 10, 11 or 12, 13 in the contact position.

[0071] For fastening the movable contact device 14 or 15 to the rotary part 16 or 17, the rotary part 16 or 17 comprises a latching projection 47 on the inner wall of its feed-through opening 29, for example on opposite sides, for latching with the movable contact device 14 or 15 in the mounted state.

[0072] As shown in particular in Figures 9, 16-19, the contact housing half 39 comprises along its longitudinal axis a narrower insertion section 49 with two latching elements, e.g. latching wings 48, and a guide section 50 which is wider in comparison. A latching receptacle 51 is provided between each latching element 48 and the guide section 50 for receiving and latching the latching projections 47 of the rotary part 16 or 17 when the movable contact device 14 or 15 is in its installed position in the rotary part.

[0073] The two latching elements 48 are resilient elements configured, for example, as latching wings 48 protruding laterally in the longitudinal direction, preferably in the shape of an arrow. The latching elements are initially compressed by the latching projections 47 when they are inserted into the through opening 29 and then spring back into their initial position when the latching elements 48 are received or latched in the latching receptacles 51. As indicated by the arrow E in Figure 19, the contact housing half 39 is pushed into the through-opening 29 of the rotating part 16 or 17 in the direction of the arrow of the arrow-shaped protruding latching wings 48. In the process, the latching wings 48 are first pressed together by the two latching projections 47 of the through opening 29 of the rotary part 16 or 17 and the latching projections 47 then latch into the latching recesses 51 between the wider guide section 50 and the ends of the latching wings of the narrower insertion section 49. The wider guide section 50 has the advantage that it forms a guide for the movable contact device 14, 15 in the feed-through opening 29 of the rotary part 16 and thus prevents it from moving unintentionally within the feed-through opening 29.

[0074] To actuate the electrical switch 1 and move the first or second rotary part 16, 17 with its first contact device 14 or second contact device 15 between the contact position and the interruption position, the switch 1 comprises the actuation system, as described above.

[0075] The actuation system is explained in more detail below with reference to Figures 20-28.

[0076] As described above, the actuating system comprises the actuating device 8.

[0077] The actuating device 8 is coupled to the first rotary part 16 for switching or rotating the first rotary part 16 and the second rotary part 17 connected thereto with their movable contact devices 14, 15 between their respective contact position and their interruption position, by actuating the actuating device 8.

[0078] In order to move the respective movable contact device 14, 15 between its contact position and its interruption position, the switch 1 comprises, as already explained above, a lever device 9, which can be rotated by a user between the contact position "I", i.e. the respective current path between the contacts 10-15 is closed, and the interruption position "0", i.e. the respective current path between the contacts 10-15 is interrupted.

[0079] The lever device 9 and the first rotary part 16 are coupled to each other in the example embodiment, as shown in Figures 1-28, via an actuating part 52, a middle part 53 and a connecting part 54. The actuating part 52 is attached in one piece or as a separate component to the lever device 9, for example screwed to it by means of a screw 55, as shown, for example, in the cross-sectional view in Figure 28.

[0080] The lever device 9 comprises, for example, a shaft 59 with a square section 60 at an inner end, which is received in a receptacle or holder 61 of the actuating part 52 and screwed to the latter. A lever or handle 62 is attached to the outer end of the shaft 59 for rotating the shaft 59 and the actuating part 52 connected to it clockwise and anti-clockwise by the user between the contact position "I", i.e. the respective current path between the contacts 10-15 is closed, and the interruption position "0", i.e. the respective current path between the contacts 10-15 is interrupted. As described before, in addition or instead of the lever or handle 52 the actuating device 8 can be driven by a motor. The motor can be provided, e.g., for rotating the shaft 59 to switch the electrical switch 1 between its contact position ("I" position) in which the current paths are closed and the interruption position ("0" position) in which the current paths are interrupted, so that no current flows.

[0081] A visual mechanical indicator element 80 may be fixedly attached to the shaft 59, in particular to its square section 60, such that it rotates when the shaft 59 is rotated. The outer surface of the housing cover 7 may be provided with indicia (or: indicator marks such as symbols, a color gradient or the like) so that the visual mechanical indicator element 80 points to an indicia indicating the contact position "I" or the interruption position "0".

[0082] The actuating part 52, the middle part 53 and the connecting part 54 are arranged coaxially to one another and, for example, can be plugged together, as shown in Figure 28, and comprise a common rotary axis. The actuating part 52, the middle part 53 and the connecting part 54 are each rotatable about the rotary axis. The connecting part 54 is preferably also coaxial with the first rotary part 16 and comprises the common rotary axis with the latter, which corresponds to the first rotary axis 57 of the first rotary part 16. The connecting part 54 is also configured to be connectable to the first rotary part 16. The connection part 54 is pluggable together with the first rotary part 16, for example, and comprises, for example, a square or other polygon, etc., which is received in a corresponding receptacle or holder 63 of the first rotary part 16 or vice versa in order to rotatably connect the two parts to one another. Both rotary parts 16, 17 can be of identical design. The second rotary part 17 can be received in a corresponding holder or receptacle in the housing as shown, e.g. in Fig. 3. Fig 3 shows the first rotary part 16 received in a corresponding holder or receptacle in the housing.

[0083] The actuating part 52 comprises an actuating cam 64 on each of two opposite sides and the middle part 53 comprises a middle part cam 65 on each of two opposite sides. The actuating cams 64 of the actuating part 52 act together with the middle part cams 65 of the middle part 53 to rotate the middle part 53 by the actuating part 52, in particular independently of the connecting part 54. In the process, the two spring elements 66, 67 of the middle part 53 are tensioned and released.

[0084] The connecting part 54 also comprises a rotary part cam 68 on each of two opposite sides. The rotary part cams 68 of the connecting part 54 interact with the middle part cams 65 of the middle part 53 to rotate the connecting part 54 through the middle part 53, in particular independently of the actuating part 52.

[0085] As shown in particular in the sectional view in Figure 28, the connecting part 54 is rotatably connected to the first rotary part 16 in such a way that the connecting part 54 rotates the first rotary part 16 when the connecting part 54 is rotated. As previously explained, the connecting part 54 and the first rotary part 16 are arranged coaxially with respect to each other and comprise the common rotary axis 57. In other words, in the embodiment example in Figures 1-28, the actuating part 52, the middle part 53, the connecting part 54 and the first rotary part 16 are arranged coaxially to one another, for example plugged together, and comprise the common rotary axis 57. The connecting part 54 comprises, for example, a square section which is received in a corresponding receptacle or holder 63 of the first rotary part 16 for rotating the first rotary part 16. However, the invention is not limited to this specific embodiment. Any other suitable connection between the first rotary part 16 and the connecting part 54 can be provided. The invention is also not limited to a square or other polygon. This applies to all square connections as described herein.

[0086] The two middle part cams 65 are also each connected to the spring element 66 or 67 for rotating the middle part 53 by means of the two spring elements 66, 67. The respective spring element 66, 67 is, for example, a spiral or torsion spring. In the embodiment example in Figures 1-28, a first end 69 of the respective spring element 66, 67 is connected to the one associated middle part cam 65, for example received in a receptacle or holder 70 of the middle part cam 65. The other, second end 71 of the respective spring element 66, 67 is attached to the switch housing and is received, for example, in a receptacle or holder on the opposite housing cover part 7. However, any other spring element or combination of spring elements can also be provided, as well as any other suitable attachment of the spring element to the middle part or middle part cam.

[0087] Figures 23-27 show various positions of the actuating mechanism when the switch is closed as shown in figures 1-28. The switch is thereby moved from the interruption position of the contact devices 10-15, i.e. "0" position in Figure 23, in which the respective current path is interrupted, to the contact position of the contact devices 10-15, i.e. "I" position in Figure 25, in which the respective current path is closed. Figures 24 and 26 show a tensioned position in which the two spring elements 66, 67 are tensioned.

[0088] In Figure 23, the connecting part 54 and the first rotary part 16 connected to it with its first movable contact device 14, as well as the second rotary part 17 coupled to the first rotary part 16 by the toothing 19 with its second movable contact device 15 are shown in the interruption position or "0" position.

[0089] In the interruption position, the current paths between the movable contact devices 14, 15 and the associated fixed contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13 are interrupted. This means that no current flows via the current paths.

[0090] The spring elements 66, 67 of the middle part 53 are relaxed in the interruption position ("0" position) in Figure 23. The actuating cams 64 are in contact with the middle part cams 65 in the clockwise direction of rotation.

[0091] If the actuating part 52 is now rotated clockwise from its interruption position ("0" position) in Figure 23 by the lever 62 into its contact position or ("I" position) in Figure 25, the actuating part 52 with its two actuating cams 64 rotates the middle part 53 clockwise via its middle part cams 65.

[0092] In Figure 23, the spring elements 66, 67 of the middle part 53 are initially both relaxed in the interruption position ("0" position) .

[0093] In Figure 24, the actuating part 52 rotates the middle part 53 clockwise into a tensioned position in which the spring elements 66, 67 are tensioned and the middle part 53 with its middle part cams 65 is in an actuating position for actuating the connecting part 54. In the actuating position, the middle part cams 65 rest against the rotary part cams 68.

[0094] To release the spring tension, the spring elements 66, 67 rotate the middle part 53 further clockwise into the contact position ("I" position) in Figure 25, while the actuating part 52 does not rotate any further. As the spring elements 66, 67 rotate the middle part 53 further clockwise, the middle part cams 65 rotate the connecting part 54 and the first rotary part 16 connected to it into the contact position. In the contact position, the spring elements 66, 67 are released again and the middle part 53 with its middle part cams 65 is again in an actuating position for actuating the connecting part 54.

[0095] In the contact position ("I" position), the first rotary part 16 with its first movable contact device 14 and the second rotary part 17 with its second movable contact device 15 are in electrical contact with the associated fixed contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13, so that the current paths are closed and current can flow.

[0096] In Figures 25-27, the connecting part 54 and the first rotary part 16 connected to it with its first movable contact device 14, as well as the second rotary part 17 coupled to the first rotary part 16 by the toothing 19 with its second movable contact device 15, are moved from the contact position ("I" position) in Figure 25 to the interruption position ("0" position) in Figure 27. In the interruption position, the current paths between the movable contact devices 14, 15 and the associated fixed contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13 are interrupted. This means that no current flows via the current paths.

[0097] In Figure 25, the spring elements 66, 67 of the middle part 53 are initially both relaxed in the contact position ("I" position).

[0098] The actuating part 52 rotates the middle part 53 in Figure 26 into a tensioned position, in which the spring elements 66, 67 are tensioned and the middle part 53 is in an actuating position with its middle part cams 65, for actuating the connecting part 54. In the actuating position, the middle part cams 65 are in contact with the rotary part cams 68.

[0099] To release the spring tension, the spring elements 66, 67 rotate the middle part 53 further counter-clockwise into the interruption position ("0" position) in Figure 27, while the actuating part 52 does not rotate any further. As the spring elements 66, 67 further rotate the middle part 53 counter-clockwise, the middle part cams 65 rotate the connecting part 54 and the first rotary part 16 connected to it into the interruption position. In the interruption position, the spring elements 66, 67 are again released and the middle part 53 with its middle part cams 65 is again in the actuating position for actuating the connecting part 54, as previously in Figure 23.

[0100] In the interruption position, the first rotary part 16 with its first movable contact device 14 and the second rotary part 17 with its second movable contact device 15 are out of electrical contact with the associated stationary contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13, so that the current paths are interrupted or open and no current can flow. The spring elements 66, 67 are relaxed again in the interruption position, as indicated in Figure 27.

[0101] As shown, for example, in Figures 20, 21 and 28, an additional spring element 20, for example a spiral or torsion spring, is also provided.

[0102] The function of the additional spring element 20 is to bring the shaft 59 and the lever 62 of the actuating device 8 into the correct position after the lever 62 is not further actuated and the force exerted on the lever 62 to actuate the switch 1 is thus cancelled. The absence of the torsion spring 20 could lead to an incorrect display of the positions "0" or "I". The actuating device 8 with the lever 62, the shaft 59 and in particular the combination of actuating part 52, middle part 53 with the two spring elements 66, 67 and the connecting part 54 for actuating the first rotary part 16 and the second rotary part 17 connected to it via the toothing 19 is merely an example of an actuating system. However, the invention is not limited to this particular actuating system. Other actuating systems may be provided which are adapted to be coupled or connected to the first rotary part 16 for rotating the first rotary part 16 between the contact position and the interruption position. As previously explained, the first rotary part16 is connected to the second rotary part 17 via the toothing 19 which causes the second rotary part 17 to be rotated in the opposite direction to the contact position when the first rotary part 16 is rotated to the contact position and vice versa.

[0103] Figures 29 and 30 show an embodiment of the switch 1 according to the invention described above with reference to figures 1-28. More precisely, the switch 1 has an additional position indicating device 73, 74 for the contact position ("I" position) and the interruption position ("0" position).

[0104] In the contact position ("I" position), the first rotary part 16 with its first movable contact device 14 and the second rotary part 17 with its second movable contact device 15 are in electrical contact with the associated fixed contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13, as described above with reference to figures 1-28, so that the current paths are closed and current can flow. In the interruption position ("0" position), however, the current paths are interrupted and no current flows.

[0105] As shown in Figures 29 and 30, a first additional position indicating device 73 is provided for the first rotary part 16 with its first movable contact device 14 and a second position indicating device 74 is provided for the second rotary part 17 with its second movable contact device 15. The first position indicating device is coupled to the associated first rotary part 16 and its first contact device 14 in such a way that when the first rotary part 16 with its first contact device 14 is in electrical contact with the associated fixed contact devices, the first position indicating device 73 indicates to a user that the first rotary part 16 with its first contact device 14 is in the contact position ("I" position) in which the current path is closed. Conversely, the first position indicating device 73 is coupled to the associated first rotary part 16 and its first contact device 14 in such a way that when the first rotary part 16 with its first contact device 14 is out of electrical contact with the associated fixed contact devices, the first position indicating device 73 indicates to a user that the first rotary part 16 with its first contact device 14 is now in the interruption position ("0" position) in which the current path is interrupted.

[0106] The same applies to the second position indicator device 74. The second position indicating device 74 is coupled to the associated second rotary part 17 and its second contact device 15 in such a way that when the second rotary part 17 with its second contact device 15 is in electrical contact with the associated fixed contact devices, the second position indicating device 74 indicates to a user that the second rotary part 17 with its second contact device 15 is in the contact position ("I" position) in which the current path is closed and current can flow. Conversely, the second position indicating device 74is coupled to the associated second rotary part 17 and its second contact device 15 in such a way that when the second rotary part 17 with its second contact device 15 is out of electrical contact with the associated fixed contact devices, the second position indicating device 74 indicates to a user that the second rotary part 17 with its second contact device 15 is now in the interrupted position ("0" position) in which the current path is interrupted.

[0107] The first and second position indicating device 73, 74 are coupled to the first or second rotary part 16, 17 and their first or second movable contact device 14, 15 in such a way that they reliably indicate the respective contact position ("I" position) and respective interruption position ("0" position) to a user, preferably independently of the indicated position of the lever device 9. This can additionally increase the safety of the switch 1.

[0108] The respective position indicating device 73, 74 has a rod element 75 with an actuating means, e.g. an actuating projection 76. The actuating projection 76 is attached to the rod element 75 transversely to the rod element 75 and can be actuated to rotate the rod element 75 around its longitudinal axis. An additional spring element 77 can be coupled to the rod element 75 and the actuating projection 76. An indicator element 78 is attached to the rod element 75 for the contact position ("I" position) and the interruption position ("0" position) . By actuating the actuating projection 76, the rod element 75 is rotated about its longitudinal axis and with it the indicator element 78 between the contact position ("I" position) and the interruption position ("0" position) of the respective first or second rotary part 16, 17 coupled to the position indicator device 73, 74 and its first or second movable contact device 14, 15.

[0109] By means of the spring element 77, the rod element 75 can be pre-tensioned in one direction of rotation, e.g. in the direction of the contact position ("I" position) or interruption position ("0" position) .

[0110] The indicator elements 78 can be provided to rotate out of (and / or into) indicator openings 79 of the housing, e.g. the housing cover part 7, to indicate the contact position ("I" position) and the interruption position ("0" position). In Figures 29 and 30, one indicator opening 79 for each contact movable contact device 14, 15, is arranged in the housing cover part 7. While the (optional) visual mechanical indicator element (see Figure 20) may give a first level indication of the position of the switch 1, the indicator elements 78 provide a second level of indication (i.e., an indication with higher reliability) as they are engaged (or: actuated) closer to the core mechanism of the switch 1.

[0111] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to a preferred embodiment example, it is not limited to this, but can be modified in a variety of ways. Instead of only two rotary parts, each with an associated movable contact device and two associated fixed contact devices for opening and closing two current paths, more than two rotary parts can also be provided and the first rotary part can thus actuate not only the second rotary part but also further rotary parts . The further rotary parts are each coupled to one another via toothing, such as the first and second rotary parts. Thus, not only two current paths can be opened and closed as in the embodiment example in Figures 1-30, but a plurality of current paths, e.g. four current paths in case of a 4-pole switch as shown in the example in Fig. 31.

[0112] In the principle sketch the four rotary parts 16, 17, 16* and 17* and their movable contacts 14, 15, 14*, 15* and rotary axes 57, 58, 57*, 58* of the electrical switch according to a further embodiment of the invention are illustrated. The electrical switch 1 of the embodiment as illustrated in Fig. 31 is essentially identical with the electrical switch in Figs. 1-30 so that reference is made to said Figures to avoid to avoid unnecessary repetitions in particular regarding the actuating device 8, the lever device 9, the arc extinguishing devices, the configuration of the movable contacts and the fixed contacts etc..

[0113] The electrical switch 1 if Fig. 31 differs from said switch 1 in Figs. 1-30 in that the four rotary parts 16, 17, 16*, 17* of the switch 1 in Fig. 31 are formed as a single part or as an integral part, so that they rotate in the first or same direction, and their rotary axes 57, 58, 57*, 58* are further, e.g., coaxial as shown in Fig. 31.

[0114] Further, the four rotary parts 16, 17, 16* and 17* and their movable contacts 14, 15, 14*, 15* are rotated in the contact position in Fig. 31 in which the movable contacts 14, 15, 14*, 15* electrically contact the corresponding fixed contacts 10, 11, 12, 13, 10*, 11*, 12*, 13* so that the four current paths of the 4-pole electrical switch 1 in Fig 31 are closed and current flows.

[0115] However, as described before the four rotary parts 16, 17, 16* and 17* need not to be formed as a single part or integral part but the rotary parts can be coupled with each other by a corresponding toothing, so that all rotary part rotate in the first direction or same direction to close or interrupt the four current paths of the 4-pole electrical switch 1.

[0116] The electrical switch 1 according to the invention and as described before with reference to Figs. 1-31 is not restricted to an electrical switch 1 configured for closing and interrupting only a first and a second current path in Figs. 1-30 or four current paths as in Fi. 31. Instead, the electrical switch 1 as described with reference to Figs. 1-31, can be configured for opening and interrupting more than two current paths and even more than four current paths. For example, the electrical witch 1 as described with reference to Figs. 1-30 and with respect to Fig. 31 can be configured for opening and interrupting at least a further third current path or at least a further fourth current path etc.. Thus, the electric switch 1 is not only suitable for 2- pole applications or direct current (DC) applications but can be also configured and used, e.g., for 3- or 4- pole applications, e.g. 3- or 4- pole alternating current (AC) switches or changeover switches etc..

[0117] In this connection, the electrical switch therefore comprises in a further embodiment for opening and closing at least the first and the second current path: at least two first and two second fixed contact devices 10, 11; 12, 13, at least a first movable contact device 14, which is rotatably arranged between the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11, for rotating between a contact position, in which the first movable contact device 14 electrically contacts and connects the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11 for closing a first current path, and an interruption position, in which the first movable contact device 14 is out of contact with the two first fixed contact devices 10, 11 for interrupting the first current path, at least a second movable contact device 15 rotatably arranged between the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13 for rotating between a contact position, in which the second movable contact device 15 electrically contacts and connects the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13 for closing a second current path, and an interruption position, in which the second movable contact device 15 is out of contact with the two second fixed contact devices 12, 13 for interrupting the second current path, at least a first rotating part 16 which is connected to the first movable contact device 14 and comprises a first rotary axis 57 about which the first rotating part 16 is rotatable for rotating the first movable contact device 14 between its contact position and its interruption position, at least a second rotary part 17 connected to the second movable contact device 15 and comprising a second rotary axis 58 about which the second rotary part 17 is rotatable for rotating the second movable contact device 15 between its contact position and its interruption position, and an actuating device 8, which is connected to the first rotary part 16, for jointly switching the two rotary parts 16, 17 and the first and the second movable contact device 14, 15 between their respective contact position and their interruption position, wherein the first rotary part 16 and the second rotary part 17 are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing 19 about their rotary axes 57, 58 so as to rotate the first movable contact device 14 and the second movable contact device 15 together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position, or wherein the first rotary part 16 and the second rotary part 17 form a single part or integral part so as to rotate the first movable contact device 14 and the second movable contact device 15 together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position, wherein their rotary axes 57, 58 can be coaxial or arranged axially spaced apart or axially offset from one another.

[0118] In case the electrical switch is, e.g. a 4-pole electrical switch 1, the 4-pole electrical switch comprises not only two first and two second fixed contact devices 10, 11; 12, 13, but in this case two third and fourth fixed contact devices. Said third and fourth fixed contact devices corresponds essentially to the first and second fixed contact devices and therefore comprises corresponding references signs. In this case only a "*" or "**" is added at each reference sign for parts of the 3-pole and 4-pole electric switch which are similar to the part of the 2-pole switch described with respect to Figs. 1-30 for a better differentiation. In Fig. 31 a principle sketch of a further embodiment of the switch according to the invention is illustrated, wherein the switch 1 comprises, e.g., 4 poles as will be described further below.

[0119] In case of, e.g. a 4-pole electrical switch, such electrical switch comprises for opening and closing an additional third and fourth current path: two third and two fourth fixed contact devices 10*, 11*; 12*, 13*, a third movable contact device 14*, which is rotatably arranged between the two third fixed contact devices 10*, 11*, for rotating between a contact position, in which the third movable contact device 14* electrically contacts and connects the two third fixed contact devices 10*, 11* for closing a third current path, and an interruption position, in which the third movable contact device 14* is out of contact with the two third fixed contact devices 10*, 11* for interrupting the third current path, at least a fourth movable contact device 15* rotatably arranged between the two fourth fixed contact devices 12*, 13* for rotating between a contact position, in which the fourth movable contact device 15* electrically contacts and connects the two fourth fixed contact devices 12*, 13* for closing a fourth current path, and an interruption position, in which the fourth movable contact device 15* is out of contact with the two fourth fixed contact devices 12*, 13* for interrupting the fourth current path, a third rotating part 16* which is connected to the third movable contact device 14* and comprises a third rotary axis 57* about which the third rotating part 16* is rotatable for rotating the third movable contact device 14* between its contact position and its interruption position, a fourth rotary part 17* connected to the fourth movable contact device 15* and comprising a fourth rotary axis 58* about which the fourth rotary part 17* is rotatable for rotating the fourth movable contact device 15* between its contact position and its interruption position, and the actuating device 8, which is connected to the first rotary part 16, for jointly switching the four rotary parts 16, 17, 16*, 17* and the first, second, third and fourth movable contact device 14, 15, 14*, 15* between their respective contact position and their interruption position, wherein the second rotary part 17 and the third rotary part 16* are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing 19* about their rotary axes 58, 57* and wherein the third rotary part 16* and the fourth rotary part 17* are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing 19** about their rotary axes 57*, 58* so as to rotate the second movable contact device 15, the third movable contact device 14* and the fourth movable contact device 15* together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position; or wherein the first rotary part 16, second rotary part 17, the third rotary part 16* and the fourth rotary part 17* form a single part or integral part for rotating the first, second, third and the fourth rotary parts 16, 17, 16*, 17* in the first direction, wherein the first rotary axis 57 of the first rotary part 16, the second rotary axis 58 of the second rotary part 17, the third rotary axis 57* of the third rotary part 16* and the fourth rotary axis 58* of the fourth rotary part 17* are preferably coaxially.

[0120] In Figs. 1-31 examples of an inventive electrical switch 1 are illustrated, wherein the electrical switch 1 is configured to be mounted on a panel. However, the inventive electrical switch as described above with respect to Figs. 1-31 and as claimed, can be configured to be mounted, e.g. on a busbar system, in particular directly onto a busbar system. This applies to inventive 2-pole electrical switches 1 such as DC electrical switches as well as inventive 3-pole or 4-pole electrical switches, e.g. 3-pole AC electrical switches etc..

[0121] Moreover, the inventive switch as described above with respect to Figs. 1-31 and as claimed can be also configured to be part of a switch disconnector with fuses. In other words, the inventive switch disconnector ca be provided or can be configured with at least one or two fuses.

[0122] Further, the actuating device 9 of the inventive switch as described above with respect to Figs. 1-31 and as claimed can be actuated by a motor. In the example illustrated in Figs. 1-31 the actuating device 8 comprises a lever device 9 and a lever 62 which can be manually actuated by a user. However, as mentioned before, the actuating device 8 can be also configured to be actuated by a motor to switch the electrical switch 1 between its contact position ("I" position) in which the current paths are closed and the interruption position ("0" position) in which the current paths are interrupted, so that no current flows.

[0123] In a preferred embodiment of the inventive electrical switch 1 as described above with respect to Figs. 1-31 and as claimed, the electrical switch 1 can comprise at least one additional indicator and / or pilot switch for detecting a position, preferably an on / off position, of the position indicating device 73, 74, the visual mechanical indicator element 80, the motor, the first rotary part 16, the second rotary part 17, the first movable contact device 14 and / or the second movable contact device 15. Thus, the position of the drive, e.g. motor, as well as the position of each pole of the switch can be detected and preferably send to another unit, in particular external unit, e.g. a programmable logical controller (PLC) unit etc.. The indicator and / or pilot switch of the switch preferably sends a signal or signals to an external device, preferably a programmable logic controller (PLC) unit, as mentioned before.

[0124] Moreover, in a further preferred embodiment of the inventive electrical switch 1 as described above with respect to Figs. 1-31 and as claimed, the inventive electrical switch 1 comprises at least one additional measurement device for voltage measurement, current measurement, temperature measurement and / or grid analysis. Furthermore, the inventive electrical switch 1 as described above with respect to Figs. 1-30 and as claimed, comprises at least one locking means (not shown) , for blocking the switching of the switch, wherein the locking means is preferably a lock or a seal. As shown, e.g., in Fig. 22, the lock or seal as locking means can be attached to a blocking unit 81 of the electrical switch 1, which blocks the switching of the switch 1. The blocking unit 81 is for example configured to directly and / or indirectly block the actuating of the switch in particular the rotation of the first rotary part 16, when the lock or seal is attached to the blocking unit 81. The seal as locking means has the advantage that it can be easily determined whether the switch has been manipulated or not.

[0125] As mentioned before, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments as described before with respect to Figs. 1-30, but can be modified in a variety of ways.List of reference signs

[0126] 1switch 2first toothed wheel 3second toothed wheel 4lower intermediate housing part 5housing bottom part 6upper intermediate housing part 7housing cover part 8actuating device 9lever device 10first fixed contact device 11further first fixed contact device 12second fixed contact device 13further second fixed contact device 14first movable contact device 15second movable contact device 16first rotary part 17second rotary part 18contact section of the first movable contact device 19toothing 20spring element 21contact element 22spring element (of the first or second movable contact device) 23first fixed contact element 24second fixed contact element 25first contact section 26second contact section 27connection section 28contact section of the second movable contact element 29through opening of the rotary part 30first arc extinguishing device 31further, first arc extinguishing device 32second arc extinguishing device 33further, second arc extinguishing device 34extinguishing plate 35extinguishing plate holder 36arc 37magnetic element 38contact housing 39contact housing half 40indentation (of the spring element) 41protrusion (of the contact housing half) 42receiving gap 43reinforcing element 44inner side of the contact housing half 45protrusion (of the contact housing half) 46recess of the contact element and the reinforcing element 47latching projection 48latching wing 49insertion section 50guide section 51latching receptacle 52actuating part 53middle part 54connecting part 55screw 56screw (switch housing) 57first rotary axis 58second rotary axis 59shaft 60square section 61holder (actuating part) 62lever 63holder (first rotating part) 64actuating cam 65middle part cam 66spring element (of the middle part cam) 67spring element (of the middle part cam) 68rotary part cam 69first end of the spring element 70middle part cam holder 71second end of the spring element 72protrusion (of contact element) 73first position indicating device 74second position indicating device 75rod element 76actuating projection 77spring element 78indicator element 79indicator openings of the housing 80visual mechanical indicator element 81blocking unit

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0030]Figure 1 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of an electrical switch 1 according to the invention, in particular a load-break switch, such as a DC load-break switch. Figures 2 and 3 each show an exploded view of the electrical switch according to Figure 1, whereby, in contrast to Figure 1, an actuation system for actuating the switch 1 is not shown for reasons of clarity.

[0031]Figures 4-8 each show sections of fixed and movable contact devices 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 of the switch 1 as shown in Figures 1-3, which are described in more detail below.

[0032]The electrical switch 1 as a load-break switch is used to connect and disconnect a load from an electrical energy source, e.g., a photovoltaic system, etc., whereby the respective movable contact moves in relation to other fixed or stationary contacts so that, when the circuit is closed, the movable contacts come into electrical contact with the fixed or stationary contacts, whereby a load and an energy source are electrical...

Claims

1. Electrical switch (1), in particular load-break switch, wherein the electrical switch is configured for opening and closing at least a first and a second current path, wherein the electrical switch comprises for opening and closing the at least first and second current path: - at least two first and two second fixed contact devices (10, 11; 12, 13), - at least a first movable contact device (14), which is rotatably arranged between the two first fixed contact devices (10, 11), for rotating between a contact position, in which the first movable contact device (14) electrically contacts and connects the two first fixed contact devices (10, 11) for closing a first current path, and an interruption position, in which the first movable contact device (14) is out of contact with the two first fixed contact devices (10, 11) for interrupting the first current path, - at least a second movable contact device (15) rotatably arranged between the two second fixed contact devices (12, 13) for rotating between a contact position, in which the second movable contact device (15) electrically contacts and connects the two second fixed contact devices (12, 13) for closing a second current path, and an interruption position, in which the second movable contact device (15) is out of contact with the two second fixed contact devices (12, 13) for interrupting the second current path, - at least a first rotating part (16) which is connected to the first movable contact device (14) and comprises a first rotary axis (57) about which the first rotating part (16) is rotatable for rotating the first movable contact device (14) between its contact position and its interruption position, - at least a second rotary part (17) connected to the second movable contact device (15) and comprising a second rotary axis (58) about which the second rotary part (17) is rotatable for rotating the second movable contact device (15) between its contact position and its interruption position, and - an actuating device (8), which is connected to the first rotary part (16), for jointly switching the two rotary parts (16, 17) and the first and the second movable contact device (14, 15) between their respective contact position and their interruption position, wherein the first rotary part (16) and the second rotary part (17) are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing (19) about their rotary axes (57, 58) so as to rotate the first movable contact device (14) and the second movable contact device (15) together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position or wherein the first rotary part (16) and the second rotary part (17) form a single part or integral part so as to rotate the first movable contact device (14) and the second movable contact device (15) together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position.

2. Electrical switch according to claim 1, wherein the first movable contact device (14) rotates in a first direction and the second movable contact device (15) rotates in a second, opposite direction, and preferably the first rotary part (16) is arranged with its first rotary axis (57) axially spaced apart from the second rotary part (17) and its second rotary axis (58) and is rotatably connected to the second rotary part (17) via the toothing (19), the first rotary part (16) having a first toothed wheel (2) as the toothing (19), in particular at a first longitudinal end, and the second rotary part (17) having a second toothed wheel (3), in particular at a second opposite longitudinal end, which are engaged with one another for rotating the first and the second rotary parts (16, 17) in the respective opposite first and second directions, or wherein the first movable contact device (14) rotates in a first direction and the second movable contact device (15) rotates in the first direction, wherein the first rotary part (16) is preferably arranged with its first rotary axis (57) axially spaced apart from the second rotary part (17) and its second rotary axis (58) and is rotatably connected to the second rotary part (17) via the toothing (19), the first rotary part (16) having a first toothed wheel (2) as the toothing (19), in particular at a first longitudinal end, and the second rotary part (17) having a second toothed wheel (3), in particular at a second opposite longitudinal end, and at least one additional gear wheel which couples the first and the second toothed wheel (2, 3) for rotating the first and the second rotary parts (16, 17) in the first direction, or wherein the first rotary part (16) and the second rotary part (17) form the single part or integral part for rotating the first and the second rotary parts (16, 17) in the first direction, wherein the first rotary axis (57) of the first rotary part (16) is preferably coaxially with the second rotary axis (58) of the second rotary part (17).

3. Electrical switch according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the two first fixed contact devices (10, 11) comprise a first fixed contact element (23) which provides a first contact section (25), the first fixed contact element (23) being in particular a first fixed, elongate plate-shaped contact element, and / or wherein each of the two second fixed contact devices (12, 13) comprise a second fixed contact element (24) which provides a second contact section (26), the second fixed contact element (24) being in particular a second fixed, elongate plate-shaped contact element.

4. Electrical switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein at least the first movable contact device (14) or the second movable contact device (15) comprises a first and a second rolling contact, in particular a first and a second cylindrical rolling contact, wherein the movable contact device (14; 15) in the contact position electrically contacts the one fixed electrical contact device (10; 12) with its first rolling contact and electrically contacts the other fixed electrical contact device (11; 13) with the second rolling contact, or wherein the first movable contact device (14) comprises at least one contact element (21) with two contact sections (18, 18), in particular two opposing contact sections, wherein the first movable contact device (14) in the contact position electrically contacts the one first fixed electrical contact device (10) with the one contact section (18) and electrically contacts the other first fixed electrical contact device (11) with the other contact section (18), and wherein the second movable contact device (15) comprises at least one contact element (21) with two contact sections (28; 28), in particular two opposing contact sections, wherein the second movable contact device (15) in the contact position electrically contacts the one second fixed electrical contact device (12) with the one contact section (28) and electrically contacts the other second fixed electrical contact device (13) with the other contact section (28).

5. Electrical switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the first or second movable contact device (14, 15) comprises a contact housing (38) with two contact elements (21), wherein an associated contact element (23, 24) of the first or second fixed contact device (10, 11; 12, 13) can be received between the two contact elements (21, 21) and can be electrically contacted when the first or second movable contact device (14, 15) is in its contact position, and wherein the respective contact housing (38) is preferably receivable and fixable in a through opening (29) of the first or second rotary part (14, 15).

6. Electrical switch according to claim 5, wherein the two contact elements (21, 21) are arranged opposite one another in the contact housing (38), wherein two spring elements (22, 22) are provided in the contact housing (38), which pretension the two contact elements (21, 21), wherein an additional reinforcing element (43) for reinforcing the contact element (21) is preferably provided between the respective spring element (22) and the associated contact element (21).

7. Electrical switch according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the contact housing (38) can be latched to the rotary part (16, 17) for fastening the movable contact device (14, 15) to the rotary part (16, 17), the contact housing (38) preferably comprising at least one resilient latching element (47) and an associated latching receptacle (51), and the through opening (29) of the rotary part (16, 17) preferably comprises at least one latching projection (47) which co-operates with the resilient latching element (47) in such a way that the latching projection (47) engages in the latching receptacle (51) when the contact housing (38) has reached its predetermined installation position in the through opening (29) of the rotary part (16, 17).

8. Electrical switch according to claim 7, wherein the contact housing (38) comprises an insertion section (49) and a guide section (50), wherein the insertion section (49) comprises the at least one latching element (47) and the latching receptacle (51) is configured between the insertion section (49) and the guide section (50) for latching the associated latching projection (47) of the rotary part (16, 17) in the installation position.

9. Electrical switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the switch (1) comprises two first arc extinguishing devices (30, 31) for the first movable contact device (14) and the two first fixed contact devices (10, 11), and wherein the switch (1) has two second arc extinguishing devices (32, 33) for the second movable contact device (15) and the two second fixed contact devices (10, 11), wherein each arc extinguishing device (30, 31; 32, 33) comprises at least one magnetic element (37) and a plurality of extinguishing plates (34) which are arranged between the respective fixed contact device (10, 11; 12, 13) and the associated movable contact device (14; 15) in such a way as to extinguish an arc (36).

10. Electrical switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the switch (1) comprises an actuating device (8) which is connected to the first rotary part (16) for rotating the first rotary part (16) between the contact position and the interruption position, wherein the actuating device (8) preferably comprises a motor to switch the switch (1) for opening and closing the at least first and second current path, and / or wherein the actuating device (8) preferably comprises a lever device (9) which is rotatably connected to the rotary part (16), wherein the lever device (9) in particular comprises a shaft (59) and a lever (62) attached to the shaft (59), wherein the shaft (59) is preferably rotatable by the motor and / or the lever (62).

11. Electrical switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the motor and / or lever device (9) rotates the first rotating part (16) between the contact position and the interruption position, wherein the lever device (9) and the first rotating part (16) have an actuating part (52) with two actuating cams (64), a middle part (53) with two middle part cams (65) and a connecting part (54) with two rotary part cams (68) are rotatably connected, in particular are rotatably connected to one another in opposite directions, and have a common rotary axis, wherein the common rotary axis corresponds to the first rotary axis (57), wherein the middle part (53) is rotatable by the actuating part (52) with its actuating cams (64) independently of the connecting part (54), wherein the connecting part (54) is rotatable by the middle part (53) with its middle part cams (65) independently of the actuating part (52), wherein the middle part (53) is thereby connected to two spring elements (66, 67), wherein one end of the respective spring element (66, 67) is attached to the middle part (53), in particular its middle part cams (65), and the other end of the respective spring element (66, 67) is attached in the housing of the switch (1), in particular to a housing cover part (7) .

12. Electrical switch according to claim 11, wherein the middle part (53) can be rotated by the actuating part (52) into a tensioned position in which the spring elements (66, 67) of the middle part (53) are tensioned in such a way that the spring elements (66, 67) rotate the middle part (53) and the connecting part (54) coupled to it by the middle part cams (65) further into the contact position or further into the interruption position, in particular independently of the actuating part (52) .

13. Electrical switch according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the switch (1) comprise at least one additional indicator and / or pilot switch for detecting a position, preferably an on / off position, of the position indicating device (73, 74), the visual mechanical indicator element (80), the motor, the first rotary part (16), the second rotary part (17), the first movable contact device (14) and / or the second movable contact device (15); and / or wherein the switch (1) comprises at least one additional measurement device for voltage measurement, current measurement, temperature measurement and / or grid analysis, wherein the indicator and / or pilot switch preferably sends a signal or signals to an external device, preferably a programmable logic controller (PLC) unit; and / or wherein the switch comprises at least one locking means, for blocking the switching of the switch, wherein the locking means is preferably a lock or a seal.

14. Electrical switch according any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical switch is configured for opening and closing the first current path, the second current path and at least a third current path, wherein the electrical switch further comprises for opening and closing the third current path: - two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*), - a third movable contact device (14*), which is rotatably arranged between the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*), for rotating between a contact position, in which the third movable contact device (14*) electrically contacts and connects the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*) for closing a third current path, and an interruption position, in which the third movable contact device (14*) is out of contact with the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*) for interrupting the third current path, - a third rotating part (16*) which is connected to the third movable contact device (14*) and comprises a third rotary axis (57*) about which the third rotating part (16*) is rotatable for rotating the third movable contact device (14*) between its contact position and its interruption position, and - the actuating device (8), which is connected to the first rotary part (16), for jointly switching the three rotary parts (16, 17, 16*) and the first, second and the third movable contact device (14, 15, 14*) between their respective contact position and their interruption position, wherein the second rotary part (17) and the third rotary part (16*) are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing (19*) about their rotary axes (58, 57*) so as to rotate the first movable contact device (14), the second movable contact device (15) and the third movable contact device (14*) together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position; or wherein the first rotary part (16), second rotary part (17) and third rotary part (16*) form a single part or integral part for rotating the first, second and the third rotary parts (16, 17, 16*) in the first direction, wherein the first rotary axis (57) of the first rotary part (16), the second rotary axis (58) of the second rotary part (17) and the third rotary axis (57*) of the third rotary part (16*) are preferably coaxially.

15. Electrical switch according any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical switch is configured for opening and closing the first current path, the second current path, a third current path and a fourth current path, wherein the electrical switch further comprises for opening and closing the third and the fourth current path: - two third and two fourth fixed contact devices (10*, 11*; 12*, 13*), - a third movable contact device (14*), which is rotatably arranged between the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*), for rotating between a contact position, in which the third movable contact device (14*) electrically contacts and connects the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*) for closing a third current path, and an interruption position, in which the third movable contact device (14*) is out of contact with the two third fixed contact devices (10*, 11*) for interrupting the third current path, - at least a fourth movable contact device (15*) rotatably arranged between the two fourth fixed contact devices (12*, 13*) for rotating between a contact position, in which the fourth movable contact device (15*) electrically contacts and connects the two fourth fixed contact devices (12*, 13*) for closing a fourth current path, and an interruption position, in which the fourth movable contact device (15*) is out of contact with the two fourth fixed contact devices (12*, 13*) for interrupting the fourth current path, - a third rotating part (16*) which is connected to the third movable contact device (14*) and comprises a third rotary axis (57*) about which the third rotating part (16*) is rotatable for rotating the third movable contact device (14*) between its contact position and its interruption position, - a fourth rotary part (17*) connected to the fourth movable contact device (15*) and comprising a fourth rotary axis (58*) about which the fourth rotary part (17*) is rotatable for rotating the fourth movable contact device (15*) between its contact position and its interruption position, and - the actuating device (8), which is connected to the first rotary part (16), for jointly switching the four rotary parts (16, 17, 16*, 17*) and the first, second, third and fourth movable contact device (14, 15, 14*, 15*) between their respective contact position and their interruption position, wherein the second rotary part (17) and the third rotary part (16*) are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing (19*) about their rotary axes (58, 57*) and wherein the third rotary part (16*) and the fourth rotary part (17*) are rotatably connected to each other via a toothing (19**) about their rotary axes (57*, 58*) so as to rotate the second movable contact device (15), the third movable contact device (14*) and the fourth movable contact device (15*) together between their respective contact position and their respective interruption position; or wherein the first rotary part (16), second rotary part (17), the third rotary part (16*) and the fourth rotary part (17*) form a single part or integral part for rotating the first, second, third and the fourth rotary parts (16, 17, 16*, 17*) in the first direction, wherein the first rotary axis (57) of the first rotary part (16), the second rotary axis (58) of the second rotary part (17), the third rotary axis (57*) of the third rotary part (16*) and the fourth rotary axis (58*) of the fourth rotary part (17*) are preferably coaxially.

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