Set of electrical disconnect contacts

Abstract

A set (40) of electrical switching contacts (1, 2) for a vacuum lamp (100) is proposed, comprising: - a first contact (1), - a second contact (2) movable along a displacement axis (A), each contact (1;2) having the form of a disk comprising a set of branches (5a,5b,5c;6a,6b,6c) separated by a slot (7a,7b,7c;8a,8b,8c) passing through the thickness of the disk, in which each branch (5a, 5b,5c) of the first contact (1) and each branch (6a, 6b,6c) of the second contact (2) comprises an inclined surface (9a,9b,9c; 10a, 10b,10c), and in which the first contact (1) and the second contact (2) are angularly linked such that: - the slots (7a,7b,7c) of the first contact (1) coincide with the slits (8a, 8b, 8c) of the second contact (2), and the inclined surface (9a, 9b, 9c) of a branch (5a, 5b, 5c) of the first contact (1) and the inclined surface (10a, 10b, 10c) of a branch (6a, 6b, 6c) of the second contact (2) are opposite each other. Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Assembly of electrical disconnect contacts technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of vacuum interrupters, also known as vacuum lamps or vacuum bulbs. Vacuum lamps are used in low, medium, and high voltage electrical distribution equipment. Vacuum lamps are associated with actuators to interrupt the current in a part of the circuit. Previous technique

[0002] As is well known, a vacuum bulb has two opposing switching contacts. Each switching contact is attached to a current-conducting rod. The contacts are housed in a sealed enclosure under vacuum. The contacts can be moved relative to each other by an actuation mechanism. When the contacts are pressed together, current can flow from one contact to the other and thus circulate in the vacuum bulb. When the contacts are separated, the current in the vacuum bulb is interrupted.

[0003] When the current is interrupted and when it is restored, an electric arc is created between the contacts. If this electric arc remains stationary, it can generate enough heat to locally melt the surface of the contacts, thus damaging them. It is therefore known to shape the contacts so that the formed electric arc generates a radial magnetic field, allowing the arc to circulate across the contact. This prevents the arc from stagnating in a fixed area of ​​the contact. The circulation of the electric arc within the contact tends to even out heating and reduces local damage. It is desirable that the shape of the contacts also generate an orthoradial magnetic force on the electric arc, that is, perpendicular to the radial direction of the contact, in order to rotate the electric arc within the contact. To achieve this, each contact can have a series of open slots.The slots of one contact are arranged opposite the slots of the other contact to create a current loop, which allows for good circulation of the electric arc. Current breaking performance can be optimized by adjusting the shape of the contact slots and their relative position.

[0004] The present invention aims to improve the performance of this type of vacuum ampoule. Summary

[0005] To this end, the invention proposes an assembly of electrical switching contacts, particularly with a radial magnetic field, for a vacuum lamp, the assembly comprising: - a first contact including a bearing surface configured to be fixed to a first electrical current-conducting rod, - a second contact configured to be moved along a displacement axis between an open position and a closed position, the second contact including a bearing surface configured to be fixed to a second electrical current-conducting rod, each contact having the form of a disc having a set of branches, each branch being separated from an adjacent branch by a slot passing through the thickness of the disc, each slot extending radially from the periphery of the disc towards the interior of the disc, wherein: - each branch of the first contact comprises an inclined surface oriented opposite to the bearing surface of the first rod, - each branch of the second contact comprises an inclined surface oriented opposite to the bearing surface of the second rod, and in which the first contact and the second contact are angularly linked such that: - the slots of the first contact coincide with the slots of the second contact along a direction parallel to the axis of displacement, and - the inclined surfaces of the branches of the first contact are opposite, in a direction parallel to the axis of displacement, with the inclined surfaces of the branches of the second contact.

[0006] The electric arc formed when the contacts are opened moves along the branches of the contacts, under the effect of the magnetic field generated by the passage of current in the contacts and in the electric arc. When the electric arc is near the periphery of the contacts, it forms between a point on an inclined surface of one contact and a point on an inclined surface of the opposite contact. The electric arc then travels along the inclined surfaces. When the electric arc reaches the end of the inclined surfaces, it can easily move to the next branch of each contact. The proposed configuration prevents the electric arc from stagnating at the end of a branch and promotes arc circulation. Contact heating is reduced, and the performance and endurance of the vacuum tube are improved.

[0007] The features listed in the following paragraphs can be implemented independently of each other or in any technically feasible combination:

[0008] Each inclined surface of the first contact extends respectively, in a radial direction, between the periphery of the disk and a slot of the first contact.

[0009] According to one aspect of the electrical break contact assembly, each branch of the first contact comprises respectively a first end adjacent to the lateral surface of the disk, and the first end of each branch is respectively opposite, in a direction parallel to the axis of displacement, an edge of an adjacent branch.

[0010] This relative arrangement of the inclined surface of a given branch and the edge of the branch adjacent to that given branch promotes the circulation of the electric arc, by allowing easy movement of the electric arc from one branch to the other.

[0011] The first end of a branch is the free end of the branch.

[0012] According to one aspect of the electrical break contact assembly, the first contact and the second contact are symmetrical to each other with respect to a plane perpendicular to the axis of movement.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the first contact and the second contact comprise three branches angularly offset by 120° from each other.

[0014] According to another embodiment, the first contact and the second contact comprise four branches angularly offset by 90° from each other.

[0015] According to yet another embodiment, the first contact and the second contact comprise five branches angularly offset by 72° from each other.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the inclined surface of each branch of the first contact is flat.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the inclined surface of each branch of the first contact is a curved surface.

[0018] The inclined surface of each branch of the first contact is, for example, a helical surface.

[0019] According to an example of an embodiment of the electrical break contact assembly, a straight line perpendicular to the inclined surface of each branch of the first contact forms respectively an angle between 10° and 80° with a direction parallel to the axis of movement.

[0020] This angle of inclination value promotes the circulation of the electric arc and an easy jump between one branch of the contacts and the adjacent branch.

[0021] The inclined surface of each branch of the first contact forms respectively an angle between 20° and 160° with the inclined surface of the branch of the second contact located opposite.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the electrical cut-off contact assembly, the first end of each branch of the first contact has the shape of a half-cylinder extending along an axis parallel to the axis of movement.

[0023] According to another embodiment of the electrical break contact assembly, the inclined surface of each branch of the first contact is respectively extended by a portion of constant thickness.

[0024] The portion of constant thickness extends in a plane perpendicular to the axis of displacement.

[0025] The thickness of the portion of constant thickness is between 10% and 90% of the thickness of the first contact.

[0026] Each portion of constant thickness of a branch extends respectively from one lateral edge to the other lateral edge of the branch.

[0027] A length, measured along an orthoradial direction, of the portion of constant thickness of a branch is between 2.0 millimeters and 8.0 millimeters.

[0028] According to one aspect of the electrical break contact assembly, the inclined surface of each branch of the first contact is respectively opposite, in a direction parallel to an orthoradial direction of the disk, with an internal surface of an adjacent branch, called the interface surface.

[0029] The internal surface, called the interface surface, opens into the lateral surface of the disk.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the interface surface of each branch adjacent to a given branch of the first contact comprises respectively an inclined surface extending parallel to the inclined surface of said given branch.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the contact set: - the inclined surface of each branch of the first contact extends from a first axial surface of the disk to a second axial surface of the disk, and - the inclined surface of the interface surface of a branch adjacent to a given branch extends from a first axial surface of the disk to a second axial surface of the disk.

[0032] According to a particular embodiment, the inclined surface of each branch of the first contact and the inclined surface of the interface surface of each branch adjacent to a given branch are parallel to each other.

[0033] According to this embodiment of the set of electrical contacts, the interface surface of each branch adjacent to a given branch comprises respectively a portion extending in a plane parallel to the axis of displacement, each of said portions respectively extending the inclined surface.

[0034] According to another embodiment, the interface surface of each branch adjacent to a given branch comprises respectively a first portion extending in a plane parallel to the axis of displacement.

[0035] Each extension plane of the first portion can form a radial plane of the disk.

[0036] According to one embodiment, each extension plane of the first portion can be respectively parallel to a radial plane of the disk, and the distance between each extension plane of the first portion and the center of the disk is less than 10% of the diameter of the disk.

[0037] The thickness of each first portion of the interface surface is between 10% and 50% of the thickness of the first contact.

[0038] According to this embodiment, the interface surface of each branch adjacent to a given branch comprises respectively a second portion extending in a plane parallel to the axis of displacement.

[0039] Each extension plane of the second portion is respectively parallel to the extension plane of the first portion.

[0040] The thickness of each second portion of the interface surface can be between 50% and 90% of the thickness of the first contact.

[0041] A distance, measured along an orthoradial direction, between the first portion of the interface surface and the second portion of the interface surface, is between 30% and 60% of the thickness of the first contact.

[0042] The length, measured along an orthoradial direction, of the third portion is between 30% and 60% of the thickness of the first contact.

[0043] A distance, measured along a direction parallel to the axis of displacement, between the portion of constant thickness of a branch and the first portion of the interface surface of an adjacent branch, is between 25% and 65% of the thickness of the first contact.

[0044] The distance is greater than or equal to 3 millimeters.

[0045] According to this embodiment of the electrical contact assembly, the surface the interface of each branch adjacent to a given branch includes respectively a third portion connecting the second portion and the first portion, the third portion extending in a plane perpendicular to the axis of displacement.

[0046] The invention also relates to a vacuum bulb comprising a set of contacts as described above, the second contact being movable between a contact position with the first contact allowing an electric current to pass through the vacuum bulb and a position away from the first contact prohibiting a current from passing through the vacuum bulb.

[0047] The invention also relates to a vacuum bulb comprising a set of contacts as described above, the two contacts being configured to be moved in opposite directions along a displacement axis between a closed position allowing passage of electric current in the bulb and empty and an open position preventing current from passing through the bulb when empty.

[0048] The invention also relates to a switching device comprising a vacuum bulb as described above.

[0049] The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a contact of the set of electrical cut-off contacts as described above.

[0050] The manufacturing process comprises the following steps: - provide a raw contact in the shape of a disc, comprising a first axial face and a second axial face opposite the first axial face, - machine the first axial face of the raw contact so as to form a set of first grooves crossing at least part of the thickness of the raw contact, - machine the second axial face of the raw contact so as to form a set of second grooves crossing at least part of the thickness of the raw contact and opening into the first grooves, so as to form the slots separating the different branches of the contact.

[0051] During the machining of the initial set of slots, the lateral surface of the machining tool forms, during its movement, the first portion of the arms. The axial surface of the machining tool forms, during its movement, the portion of constant thickness. During the machining of the second set of slots, the lateral surface of the machining tool forms, during its movement, the second portion and the end of the arms. The axial surface of the machining tool forms, during its movement, the third portion.

[0052] The manufacturing process includes the step: - machine the first axial face of the raw contact so as to form the inclined surfaces of the contact branches.

[0053] The inclined surfaces are formed by successive passes of the machining tool.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the manufacturing process may include the step: - machine part of the lateral surface of the raw contact so as to form the inclined surfaces of the contact branches. Brief description of the drawings

[0055] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analysis of the accompanying drawings, on which:

[0056] [Fig-1] is a schematic representation of a vacuum ampoule according to the prior art,

[0057] [Fig.2] is a side view of a set of electrical break contacts according to a first embodiment of the invention,

[0058] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of an electrical breaking contact of the entire [Fig.2],

[0059] [Fig.4] is a perspective view of an electrical breaking contact according to a variant of the first embodiment,

[0060] [Fig.5] is a side view of a set of electrical disconnect contacts according to a second embodiment of the invention,

[0061] [Fig.6] is a perspective view of an electrical breaking contact of the entire [Fig.5],

[0062] [Fig.7] is another perspective view of an electrical breaking contact of the entire [Fig.5],

[0063] [Fig.8] is a top view of an electrical break contact of the assembly of [Fig.5],

[0064] [Fig.9] is a bottom view of an electrical break contact of the assembly of [Fig.5],

[0065] [Fig. 10] is a detailed perspective view of an electrical break contact of the entire [Fig. 5],

[0066] [Fig. 11] is another detailed perspective view of an electrical break contact of the entire [Fig. 5],

[0067] [Fig. 12] is a perspective view of an electrical breaking contact according to a variant of the second embodiment,

[0068] [Fig. 13] is a top view of the electrical cutoff contact of [Fig. 11],

[0069] [Fig. 14] is a schematic, side view of a set of breaking contacts electric according to a third embodiment. Description of the implementation methods

[0070] To facilitate reading the figures, the various elements are not necessarily drawn to scale. In these figures, identical elements bear the same reference numerals. Certain elements or parameters may be indexed, that is, designated, for example, as first element or second element, or first parameter and second parameter, etc. This indexing aims to differentiate similar, but not identical, elements or parameters. This indexing does not imply a priority of one element or parameter over another, and the designations may be interchanged. When it is specified that a subsystem comprises a given element, this does not exclude the presence of other elements in that subsystem.

[0071] In the different figures, the X, Y, Z axes designate the three directions of space in order to identify the viewing angle of each figure.

[0072] Figure [Fig.1] shows a vacuum bulb 100 comprising a set 40 of electrical cutoff contacts 1,2, which will be described in detail below. A switching device, not shown, includes the vacuum bulb 100. The switching device is, for example, a medium voltage or high voltage device. The switching device can be, for example, a circuit breaker, a disconnector, or a switch. According to the illustrated example, the switching device has three electrical conductors corresponding respectively to one phase, and each electrical conductor has a 100 vacuum bulb.

[0073] The vacuum bulb 100 comprises an envelope 80, forming a vacuum-tight enclosure. This means that the pressure inside the envelope is less than 10⁴ millibars. A screen, not shown, is arranged opposite the switching contacts 1,2 in a radial direction and protects the envelope 80 from metal deposits torn from the contacts 1,2. The set 40 of electrical breaking contacts 1,2 is arranged in the enclosure 80.

[0074] The first contact 1 is integral with a first electrical current conduction rod 31. The second contact 2 is attached to a second conduction rod 32 for the electric current.

[0075] The second contact 2 is movable between: - a contact position F with the first contact 1 allowing the passage of electric current in the vacuum bulb 100, and - a position O distant from the first contact 1 prohibiting current from passing through the vacuum bulb 100.

[0076] The first contact 1 comprises a contact surface 13 configured to come into contact with the second contact 2. Similarly, the second contact 2 includes a contact surface 14 configured to make contact with the first contact 1. When contacts 1 and 2 are in the closed position F, the contact surface 13 of the first contact 1 rests against the contact surface 14 of the second contact 2. This operating condition is schematically illustrated in part A of [Fig. 1] and corresponds to a closure of the electrical circuit. Electric current can thus flow between the first conductive rod 31 and the second conductive rod 32, passing through contacts 1 and 2.

[0077] When contacts 1, 2 are in the open position O, the contact surface 13 of the first contact 1 is separated from the contact surface 14 of the second contact 2. The Two contacts 1 and 2 are spaced apart. This operating case is illustrated in part B of [Fig. 1], and corresponds to an opening of the electrical circuit. The arrow represented by the symbol g represents the spacing distance between the two contacts 1,2 when they are in the open position O.

[0078] A control mechanism, not shown, allows the two contacts 1,2 to be moved relative to each other so as to be able to alternately switch from the closed position F to the open position O of the electrical circuit. The first contact 1 is for example fixed relative to the enclosure 80 of the vacuum bulb 100. The second contact 2 is for example mobile relative to the enclosure 80 of the vacuum bulb, according to a translational movement. According to one embodiment, the contacts 1,2 can both be movable. In this case, the two contacts 1,2 of the vacuum bulb 100 are configured to be moved in opposite directions along a displacement axis A between a closed position F and an open position O. The closed position F allows an electric current to pass through the vacuum bulb 100, and the open position O prevents an electric current from passing through the vacuum bulb 100. A control mechanism can jointly move each of the contacts 1,2 relative to the enclosure 80 of the vacuum bulb 100. The axis of displacement A is common to both contacts 1,2.

[0079] The first conduction rod 31 and the second conduction rod 32 are cylindrical. The first contact 1 and the first conduction rod 31 are coaxial. Similarly, the second contact 2 and the second conduction rod 32 are coaxial. The first electric current conduction rod 31 and the second electric current conduction rod 32 are thus coaxial, with axis A in the various figures. The axis of displacement of the second contact 2 coincides with the axis A of the second current conduction rod 32. In the various figures, contacts 1,2 are oriented so that the axis of displacement of the second contact 2 is parallel to the vertical axis Z. The spatial orientation of the contacts can however be arbitrary.

[0080] Each contact 1,2 extends radially in a plane perpendicular to the axis of displacement A. The radial extension distance of each contact 1,2 defines the diameter fi of each contact. Each contact 1,2 extends axially along the direction of axis A. The axial extension distance of each contact defines the thickness E of each contact.

[0081] The contact surface 13 of the first contact 1 extends in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the current conduction rod 31 of the first contact 1. Similarly, the contact surface 14 of the second contact 2 extends in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the current conduction rod 32 of the second contact 2.

[0082] The first contact 1 is made of a copper and chromium alloy. The second contact 2 is made of a copper and chromium alloy. Each contact 1,2 is a single piece here.

[0083] The present invention proposes a set of 40 electrical cutoff contacts 1, 2, in particular with radial magnetic field, for vacuum bulb 100. Set 40 includes: - a first contact 1 comprising a bearing surface 3 configured to be fixed to a first rod 31 for conducting electric current, - a second contact 2 configured to be moved along a displacement axis A between an open position O and a closed position F, the second contact 2 comprising a bearing surface 4 configured to be fixed to a second rod 32 for conducting electric current. Each contact 1;2 has the form of a disk comprising a set of branches 5a,5b,5c ;6a,6b,6c, each branch 5a,5b,5c ;6a,6b,6c being separated from an adjacent branch by a slit 7a,7b,7c ;8a,8b,8c traversing the thickness of the disk. Each slot 7a, 7b, 7c; 8a, 8b, 8c extends radially from a lateral surface 33, 34 of the disk towards the interior of the disk, and: - Each branch 5a, 5b, 5c of the first contact 1 comprises an inclined surface 9a, 9b, 9c oriented opposite to the bearing surface 3 of the first rod 31, - Each branch 6a, 6b, 6c of the second contact 2 comprises an inclined surface 10a, 10b, 10c oriented opposite to the bearing surface 4 of the second rod 32, and the first contact 1 and the second contact 2 are angularly connected such that: - the slits 7a,7b,7c of the first contact 1 coincide with the slits 8a,8b,8c of the second contact 2 in a direction parallel to the axis of displacement A, and - the inclined surfaces 9a,9b,9c of the branches 5a,5b,5c of the first contact 1 are opposite, in a direction parallel to the axis of displacement A, the inclined surfaces 10a, 10b, 10c of the branches 6a,6b,6c of the second contact 2.

[0084] Fig. 2 represents the set of 40 1.2 breaking contacts spaced apart from each other. The curved lines designated by the signs pl, p2, ..., p5 schematically represent the successive positions of the electric arc formed at the opening of contacts 1,2. According to the viewpoint of [Fig.2], the electric arc moves from right to left along the branches of contacts 1,2, under the effect of the magnetic field generated by the passage of current in contacts 1,2 and in the electric arc. When the electric arc is close to the periphery of the contacts, the electric arc occurs between a point on an inclined surface of the first contact 1 and a point on an inclined surface of the second contact 2, located opposite it. The electric arc propagates along the inclined surface of each contact, as schematically represented by the symbols p2, p3, p4. When the electric arc reaches the end of the inclined surface of a contact arm, it can easily move to the next arm of that contact. This movement to the next contact arm is represented by the symbol p5. The proposed configuration prevents the electric arc from stagnating at the tips of the contacts 1 and 2, and promotes arc circulation. This reduces the heating of contacts 1 and 2, and improves the performance and endurance of the vacuum tube.

[0085] Each slot of the first contact 1 coincides with a slot of the second contact 2 in a direction parallel to the axis of displacement A. In the same way, each slot of the second contact 2 coincides with a slot of the first contact 1 in a direction parallel to the axis of displacement A. In other words, the slots of the first contact 1 and the slots of the second contact 2 are opposite each other in a direction parallel to the axis A.

[0086] For the purposes of this application, a certain degree of angular misalignment may exist between the slots of the first contact 1 and the slots of the second contact 2. Indeed, during the assembly of a contact and the corresponding conduction rod, minimal positioning errors are unavoidable. Thus, an angular offset of up to + / - 10° is considered acceptable. This angular offset is viewed along a direction parallel to the direction of movement A. A straight line originating from a point located on the central line of a slit of the first contact 1, and parallel to the axis of displacement A, passes through a slit of the second contact 2. The central line is understood to be the virtual line located equidistant from the lateral edges of a slit.

[0087] A straight line originating from an inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of a branch 5a,5b,5c of the first contact 1, and parallel to the axis of displacement A, passes respectively through an inclined surface 10a, 10b, 10c of a branch 6a,6b,6c of the second contact 2. On [Fig.2], the line from the inclined surface 9a of the branch 5a of the first contact 1, parallel to the axis of displacement A and passing through the inclined surface 10a of the branch 6a of the second contact 2 is designated by the sign Na. Similarly, the line from the inclined surface 9b of the branch 5b of the first contact 1, parallel to the axis of displacement A and passing through the inclined surface 10b of the branch 6b of the second contact 2 is designated by the sign Nb. To simplify the figure, this line has not been shown for the other branches of contacts 1,2.

[0088] In other words, each slot 7a, 7b, 7c of the first contact 1 coincides respectively with a slot 8a, 8b, 8c of the second contact 2 in a direction parallel to the axis of displacement A, and the inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of each branch 5a,5b,5c of the first contact 1 and the inclined surface 10a, 10b, 10c of each branch 6a,6b,6c of the second contact 2 are respectively opposite each other in a direction parallel to the axis of displacement A.

[0089] On a radially internal portion, each slot 7a,7b,7c ;8a,8b,8c crosses the thickness of the disk in a direction parallel to the axis of displacement A.

[0090] The number of branches of the first contact 1 and the second contact 2 can be arbitrary, and is generally between 2 and 8. The branches of contacts 1 and 2 are angularly equidistant, meaning that two consecutive branches are separated by an angle equal to 360° divided by the number of branches. This angular separation is viewed along a direction parallel to the axis A of the current-conducting rod.

[0091] According to a first embodiment, illustrated in figures 2 and 3, the first contact 1 and the second contact 2 comprise five branches 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e angularly offset by 72° from each other. The first contact 1 and the second contact 2 exhibit a symmetry of order 5 in this case.

[0092] According to a second embodiment, illustrated in particular in figures 5 to 9, the first contact 1 and the second contact 2 comprise four branches 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d angularly offset by 90° from each other. The first contact 1 and the second contact 2 then exhibit a symmetry of order 4, that is to say that each contact is invariant under a rotation of a quarter turn.

[0093] According to an example of an embodiment not shown, the first contact 1 and the second contact 2 comprise three branches 5a, 5b, 5c angularly offset by 120° from each other. The first contact 1 and the second contact 2 then exhibit a symmetry of order 3, that is to say that each contact is invariant under a rotation of one third of a turn.

[0094] A slit separates two consecutive branches. Each branch is delimited by two consecutive slits. In other words, a branch is formed by the material contained between two consecutive slits.

[0095] In the case of a contact comprising four branches and four slots, illustrated in particular in figures 5 to 9, the first branch 5a is delimited on one side by the fourth slot 7d and on the other side by the first slot 7a. As shown in [Fig.8], the fourth cleft 7d forms a first lateral border B1a, radially external, of the first branch 5a. The first cleft 7a forms a second lateral border B2a, radially internal, of the first branch 5a. The second branch 5b is delimited on one side by the first slot 7a and on the other side by the second slot 7b. The first cleft 7a thus forms a first lateral border Blb, radially external, of the second branch 5b. The second cleft 7b forms a second lateral border B2b, radially internal, of the second branch 5b. Similarly, the third branch 5c is delimited on one side by the second slot 7b and on the other side by the third slot 7c. The second cleft 7b forms a first lateral border, radially external, of the third branch 5c. The third cleft 7c forms a second lateral border, radially internal, of the third branch 5c. Similarly, the fourth branch 5d is delimited on one side by the third slot 7c and on the other side by the fourth slot 7d. The third cleft 7c forms a first lateral border, radially external, of the fourth branch 5d. The fourth cleft 7d forms a second lateral border B2d, radially internal, of the fourth branch 5d.

[0096] Each slot extends between a first end opening onto the periphery of the disk and a second end forming a bottom of the slot. The symbols E2a, E2b designate respectively the bottom of the first slot 7a and the second slot 7b. The symbols Ela, Elb designate respectively the end of the first slot 7a opening onto the periphery of the disk and the end of the second slot 7b opening onto the periphery of the disk. The bottom of the slots can be semi-circular in shape. The width of the slits is constant over at least part of their length. Each slit includes a first portion extending radially in a spiral shape from the bottom of the slit towards the periphery of the disk. The first spiral-shaped portion is extended by a second portion extending in a roughly radial direction. The junction zone between the first section and the second section forms a change of direction close to 90°.

[0097] The bearing surface 3 of the first contact 1 is a brazing surface of the first rod 31 for conducting electric current. Similarly, the bearing surface 4 of the second contact 2 is a brazing surface of the second rod 32 for conducting electric current. A brazing material is disposed between an axial end of the first current-conducting rod 31 and the bearing surface 3 of the first contact 1. Similarly, the brazing material is disposed between an axial end of the second current-conducting rod 32 and the bearing surface 4 of the second contact 2. A geometric singularity located at one end of each current-conducting rod is inserted into a geometric singularity of complementary shape in the corresponding contact. A predetermined relative angular positioning can thus be ensured between each current-conducting rod and its corresponding contact.

[0098] Each inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of the first contact 1 extends respectively, in a radial direction, between the periphery PI of the disk and a slot 7a,7b,7c of the first contact 1.

[0099] Each inclined surface 9a,9b,9c opens into the lateral surface 33 of the first contact 1. In other words, a radially external edge of each inclined surface 9a,9b,9c forms respectively the intersection of this inclined surface 9a,9b,9c and the lateral surface 33 of the first contact 1. Each inclined surface 9a,9b,9c also opens into a slot 7a,7b,7c of the first contact 1. Thus, a radially internal edge of each inclined surface 9a,9b,9c forms respectively the intersection of this inclined surface 9a,9b,9c and the slit 7a,7b,7c of the first contact 1. In other words, each inclined surface is delimited on one radially external side by the periphery of the first contact 1, and on one radially internal side by a slit. The term radially external, or outer, edge refers to the edge furthest from the center of the disk. Similarly, the term radially internal, or inner, edge refers to the edge closest to the center of the disk. The periphery of the first contact 1 coincides with the periphery of the disk giving the general shape of the contact.

[0100] The inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of each branch 5a, 5b,5c of the first contact 1 is oriented towards the contact surface 13 of the first contact 1. The inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of each branch 5a, 5b,5c of the first contact 1 is thus oriented opposite to the bearing surface 3, on which the rod 31 is brazed.

[0101] The inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of each branch 5a, 5b, 5c defines a portion of decreasing thickness as one moves away from the contact surface 13 of the first contact 1 and approaches the support surface 3. This thickness is measured parallel to the axis A of the current conduction rod 31 associated with the first contact 1. In [Fig. 10], the symbol e1 illustrates the thickness of the portion of the first branch 5a located under the inclined surface 9a, for a first position farther from the support surface 13. The symbol e2 illustrates the thickness of the portion located under the inclined surface 9a, for a second position further from the support surface 13 than the first position. The thickness e2 is less than the thickness e1.

[0102] Each branch 5a, 5b, 5c of the first contact 1 comprises respectively a first end 1 la, l lb, l le adjacent to the lateral surface 33 of the disk, and the first end 1 la, l lb, l le of each branch 5a, 5b, 5c is respectively opposite, in a direction D3 parallel to the axis of displacement A, with an edge 15a, 15b, 15c of an adjacent branch 5b, 5c, 5a.

[0103] In other words, an end 1la, 11b, 1le of a given branch 5a, 5b, 5c is respectively aligned, along a direction DI parallel to the axis of displacement A, with the edge 15a, 15b, 15c of the branch adjacent to this given branch 5a, 5b, 5c. This relative arrangement of the inclined surface of a given branch and the edge of the branch adjacent to this given branch promotes the circulation of the electric arc, by allowing easy movement of the electric arc from one branch to the other.

[0104] The first end 1 la,l lb,l le of a branch 5a,5b,5c is the free end of the branch 5a,5b,5c.

[0105] In the illustrated example, the first contact 1 and the second contact 2 are symmetrical to each other with respect to a plane perpendicular to the axis of displacement A. The first contact 1 and the second contact 2 are the image of each other in a mirror.

[0106] All the characteristics of the first contact 1 are also applicable to the second contact 2. Thus, the characteristics of second contact 2 were not explicitly listed in the following description. They are obtained by replacing the term "first contact 1" with "second contact 2".

[0107] According to the illustrated example, the inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of each branch 5a,5b,5c of the first contact 1 is a curved surface.

[0108] The inclined surface 9a, 9b, 9c of each branch 5a, 5b, 5c of the first contact 1 is, for example, a helical surface. Figures 10 and 11 detail in particular the inclined surface 9a of a branch 5a.

[0109] According to an alternative embodiment, not shown, the inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of each branch 5a,5b,5c of the first contact 1 is flat.

[0110] Fig. 6 highlights the inclination of the inclined surfaces 9a, 9b, 9c. A straight line D2 perpendicular to the inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of each branch 5a,5b,5c of the first contact 1 forms respectively an angle a between 10° and 80° with a direction DI parallel to the axis of displacement A.

[0111] This angle of inclination value promotes the circulation of the electric arc and an easy jump between a given branch of the contact and the branch adjacent to that given branch.

[0112] Fig. 5 is another illustration of the inclination of the inclined surfaces 9a, 9b, 9c. The inclined surface 9a, 9b, 9c of each branch 5a, 5b, 5c of the first contact 1 forms respectively an angle b between 20° and 160° with the inclined surface 10a, 10b, 10c of the branch 6a, 6b, 6c of the second contact 2 located opposite.

[0113] The ends of the branches of contacts 1,2 can have different shapes.

[0114] According to a first embodiment, illustrated in [Fig. 2] and [Fig. 3], the first end 1 la, l lb, l le of each branch 5a, 5b, 5c of the first contact 1 comprises a substantially straight edge. The substantially straight edge extends in a radial direction of the disk.

[0115] According to a variant of the first embodiment, the first end 1 la,l lb,l le of each branch 5a,5b,5c of the first contact 1 has the shape of a half-cylinder extending along an axis parallel to the axis of displacement A. This alternative embodiment is illustrated in [Fig.4], which represents a second contact 2.

[0116] According to a second embodiment of the set 40 of electrical breaking contacts 1, 2, illustrated in figures 5 to 11, the inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of each branch 5a,5b,5c of the first contact 1 is respectively extended by a portion 17a, 17b, 17c of constant thickness.

[0117] The same applies to the variant of the second embodiment illustrated in Figures 12 and 13. Figures 12 and 13 represent the second contact 2. This variant differs from the second embodiment by the number of branches, which is five in the variant. References 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 10e denote the respective inclined surface of the five branches 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e of the second contact 2. Similarly, references 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, 8e denote the slits separating the branches. References 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 18e respectively designate the portion of constant thickness of branches 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, 8e. References 12a and 12e denote the respective ends of branches 8a and 8b. References 16a, 16b designate the respective edge of branches 6a, 6b. Reference 28a designates the second portion of the branch 6b of the second contact 2.

[0118] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the portion 17a, 17b, 17c of constant thickness extends in a plane H perpendicular to the axis of displacement A.

[0119] The first contact 1 has a thickness E, defined by the distance separating a first axial surface of the contact 1 and a second axial surface of the contact 1. The thickness E17 of the portion 17a, 17b, 17c of constant thickness is between 10% and 90% of the thickness E of the first contact 1. This thickness E17 is visible in [Fig. 9].

[0120] Each portion 17a,17b,17c of constant thickness of a branch 5a,5b,5c extends respectively from one lateral edge to the other lateral edge of the branch 5a,5b,5c.

[0121] A length L17, measured along an orthoradial direction Ta,Tb,Tc, of the portion 17a,17b,17c of constant thickness of a branch 5a,5b,5c is between 2.0 millimeters and 8.0 millimeters. The term orthoradial direction at a point refers to a direction parallel to the tangent to the disk at that point.

[0122] The inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of each branch 5a,5b,5c of the first contact 1 is respectively opposite, along a direction D4a, D4b, D4c parallel to an orthoradial direction Ta,Tb,Tc of the disk, with an internal surface 19b,19c,19a of an adjacent branch 5b,5c,5a, called interface surface.

[0123] The internal surface 19b,19c,19a, called the interface surface, opens into the lateral surface 33 of the disk. The internal surface 19b,19c,19a, called the interface surface, is separated respectively from the inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of each branch 5a,5b,5c by a slit 7a, 7b, 7c.

[0124] The shape of the interface surface may vary.

[0125] According to the first embodiment of the set 40 of electrical contacts 1,2, illustrated in figures 2, 3 and 4, the interface surface 19b,19c,19a of each branch adjacent 5b,5c,5a to a given branch 5a,5b,5c of the first contact 1 comprises respectively an inclined surface 21b, 21c, 21a extending parallel to the inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of said given branch 5a,5b,5c.

[0126] According to this embodiment, the interface surface 19b,19c,19a of each branch adjacent 5b,5c,5a to a given branch 5a,5b,5c comprises respectively a portion 23b,23c,23a extending in a plane parallel to the axis of displacement A, each of said portions 23b,23c,23a extending respectively the inclined surface 21b, 21c, 21a.

[0127] Similarly, in the example of [Fig.2], the interface surface 20b of the branch adjacent 6b to the branch 6a of the second contact 2 comprises an inclined surface 22b extending parallel to the inclined surface 10 of the branch 6a. The interface surface 20b of the branch adjacent 6b to the branch 6a of the second contact 2 includes a portion 24b extending in a plane parallel to the axis of displacement A, the portion 24b extending the inclined surface 22b.

[0128] Thus, each inclined surface 21b, 21c, 21a extending parallel to the inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of a branch 5a,5b,5c is respectively extended by a portion 23b,23c,23a extending in a plane parallel to the axis of displacement A and forming a radial plane of the disk. On the variant of the first embodiment illustrated in [Fig.4], the interface surface 19b,19c,19a of each branch adjacent 5b,5c,5a to a given branch 5a,5b,5c has the same shape as on the first embodiment.

[0129] According to the second embodiment, and as illustrated in [Fig.11] and [Fig.9], the interface surface 19b,19c,19a of each branch adjacent 5b,5c,5a to a given branch 5a,5b,5c comprises respectively a first portion 25b,25c,25a extending in a plane Rlb,Rlc,Rla parallel to the axis of displacement A.

[0130] Each Rlb,Rlc,Rla extension plane of the first portion 25b,25c,25a forms a radial plane of the disk. The [Fig.9] highlights the radial nature of the respective extension plane Rlb,Rlc,Rld,Rla of each first portion 25b,25c,25d,25a, which passes through the center Cl of the disk.

[0131] According to an alternative embodiment, illustrated in particular on [Fig. 13], each extension plane Rlb, Rlc, Rla of the first portion 25b, 25c, 25a can be respectively parallel to a radial plane of the disk, and the distance j between each extension plane Rlb, Rlc, Rla of the first portion 25b, 25c, 25a and the center Cl of the disk is less than 10% of the diameter fi of the disk. This variant is illustrated in [Fig. 13], which represents the second contact 2. Thus, each extension plane R2b, R2c, R2a of the first portion 26b, 26c, 26a of the second contact 2 is respectively parallel to a radial plane of the disk, and the distance j between each extension plane R2b, R2c, R2a of the first portion 26b, 26c, 26a and the center C2 of the disk is less than 10% of the diameter of the disk.

[0132] In other words, each extension plane of the first portion is offset from the center of the disk.

[0133] As illustrated in [Fig.10], the thickness E25 of each first portion 25b,25c,25a of the interface surface 19b,19c,19a is between 10% and 50% of the thickness E of the first contact 1.

[0134] The thickness of each first portion 25b,25c,25a of the interface surface 19b, 19c, 19a is measured along a direction parallel to the displacement axis A.

[0135] According to this embodiment, the interface surface 19b, 19c, 19a of each branch adjacent 5b, 5c, 5a to a given branch 5a, 5b, 5c comprises respectively a second portion 27b,27c,27a extending in a plane R2b,R2c,R2a parallel to the axis of displacement A.

[0136] As illustrated in [Fig.9], each extension plane R2b, R2c, R2a of the second portion 27b,27c,27a is respectively parallel to the extension plane Rlb,Rlc,Rla of the first portion 25b,25c,25a.

[0137] The thickness E27 of each second portion 27b,27c,27a of the interface surface 19b, 19c, 19a can be between 50% and 90% of the thickness of the first contact 1.

[0138] A distance Ll, measured along an orthoradial direction Tb,Tc,Ta, between the first portion 25b,25c,25a of the interface surface 19b, 19c, 19a and the second portion 27b,27c,27a of the interface surface 19b,19c,19a, is between 30% and 60% of the thickness E of the first contact 1.

[0139] The distance Ll, shown in Figures 10 and 11, represents the length of the third portion 29b,29c,29a, measured along an orthoradial direction Tb,Tc,Ta. This distance corresponds to the free space, in an orthoradial direction to the disk, between the end of the portion of constant thickness of a branch and the edge of the adjacent branch.

[0140] A distance L2, measured along a direction parallel to the axis of displacement A, between the portion 17a,17b,17c of constant thickness of a branch 5a,5b,5c and the first portion 25b,25c,25a of the interface surface 19b, 19c, 19a of an adjacent branch, is between 25% and 65% of the thickness E of the first contact 1.

[0141] The distance L2 is greater than or equal to 3 millimeters. The distance L2 corresponds to the free space, in a direction parallel to the axis A, between the end of the portion of constant thickness of a branch and the edge of the adjacent branch.

[0142] According to this embodiment of the set 40 of electrical contacts, the interface surface 19b,19c,19a of each branch adjacent 5b,5c,5a to a given branch 5a,5b,5c comprises respectively a third portion 29b,29c,29a connecting the second portion 27b,27c,27a and the first portion 25b,25c,25a, the third portion 29b,29c,29a extending in a plane perpendicular to the axis of displacement A.

[0143] Fig. 14 schematically represents a third embodiment, which differs from the first and second embodiments by the shape of the interface surface.

[0144] According to this third embodiment of the contact set: - the inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of each branch 5a,5b,5c of the first contact 1 extends from a first axial surface of the disk to a second axial surface of the disk, and - the inclined surface 21b, 21c, 21a of the interface surface 19b,19c,19a of a branch adjacent 5b,5c,5a to a given branch 5a,5b,5c extends from a first axial surface of the disk to a second axial surface of the disk.

[0145] According to this embodiment, the inclined surface 9a,9b,9c of each branch 5a,5b,5c of the first contact 1 and the inclined surface 21b, 21c, 21a of the interface surface 19b, 19c, 19a of each branch adjacent 5b,5c,5a to a given branch 5a,5b,5c are parallel to each other. In this figure, the sign 10a represents the inclined surface of branch 6a of the second contact 2, and the sign 20b represents the interface surface of branch 6b, this branch 6b being adjacent to branch 6a.

[0146] The dimensions of the contacts 1,2 and of the electrical current conduction rods 31, 32 may vary depending on the intended application. The diameter of the electric current conduction rods 31, 32 is between 10 millimeters and 100 millimeters. The diameter of the first contact 1 and the second contact 2 is between 20 millimeters and 100 millimeters. The thickness E of the first contact 1 and the second contact 2 is between 3 millimeters and 30 millimeters.

[0147] We will now describe a method for manufacturing a contact of the electrical break contact assembly as described previously.

[0148] The manufacturing process comprises the following steps: - provide a raw contact in the shape of a disc, comprising a first axial face and a second axial face opposite the first axial face, - machine the first axial face of the raw contact so as to form a set of first grooves crossing at least part of the thickness of the raw contact, - machine the second axial face of the raw contact so as to form a set of second grooves crossing at least part of the thickness of the raw contact and opening into the first grooves, so as to form the slots separating the different branches of the contact.

[0149] The machining tool may be a cylindrical milling cutter. The axis of rotation of the machining tool is parallel to the axis of the disc, therefore perpendicular to the axial surfaces of the disc. The contact can, for example, be reversed after the machining of the initial set of grooves, so that the machining tool has access to the second face of the raw contact. Two separate machining tools can also be used. A first tool moves in one direction to remove material from the first axial face of the workpiece. A second tool moves in a second direction opposite to the first to remove material from the second axial face of the workpiece.

[0150] In the case of manufacturing contacts according to the second embodiment described, machining all the first grooves makes it possible to form the first portion 25 of the arms as well as the portion 17 of constant thickness. Machining the set of second grooves allows the second portion 27, the third portion 29, and the end 11 of the branches to be formed.

[0151] During the machining of the initial set of slots, the lateral surface of the machining tool forms, during its movement, the first portion 25 of each of the arms. The axial surface of the machining tool forms, during its movement, the portion 17 of constant thickness. During the machining of the set of second slots, the lateral surface of the machining tool forms, during its movement, the second portion 27 and the end 11 of the arms. The axial surface of the machining tool forms, during its movement, the third portion 29.

[0152] The manufacturing process includes the step: - machine the first axial face of the raw contact so as to form the inclined surfaces of the contact branches.

[0153] The inclined surfaces are formed by successive passes of the machining tool. Each pass is offset along an orthoradial direction relative to the previous pass, and the amount of material removed increases with each pass so as to form the inclined surfaces.

[0154] In the case of the third embodiment, schematically illustrated in [Fig. 14], the manufacturing process may include the step: - machine part of the lateral surface of the raw contact so as to form the inclined surfaces of the contact branches.

[0155] A cylindrical milling cutter can, for example, be used. The axis of rotation of the machining tool is then perpendicular to the axis A of the disc.

[0156] The contacts 1,2 can also be obtained by other manufacturing processes.

[0157] The contacts 1,2 can, for example, be obtained by molding. The slots of the contacts correspond to mold areas in which no material is present.

[0158] The contacts 1,2 can also be obtained by uniaxial compression and sintering.

[0159] According to another variant, contacts 1,2 can also be obtained by additive manufacturing.

Claims

Demands

1. An assembly (40) of electrically interrupting contacts (1, 2), particularly with a radial magnetic field, for a vacuum lamp (100), the assembly (40) comprising: - a first contact (1) including a bearing surface (3) configured to be fixed to a first electrically conducting rod (31), - a second contact (2) configured to be moved along a displacement axis (A) between an open position (0) and a closed position (F), the second contact (2) including a bearing surface (4) configured to be fixed to a second electrically conducting rod (32), each contact (1; 2) having the form of a disc having a set of arms (5a, 5b, 5c; 6a, 6b, 6c), each arm (5a, 5b, 5c; 6a, 6b, 6c) being separated from an adjacent arm by a slot (7a, 7b, 7c ;8a,8b,8c) passing through the thickness of the disk, each slot (7a,7b,7c;8a, 8b, 8c) extending radially from a lateral surface (33, 34) of the disk towards the interior of the disk, wherein: - each arm (5a, 5b, 5c) of the first contact (1) comprises an inclined surface (9a, 9b, 9c) oriented opposite to the bearing surface (3) of the first rod (31), - each arm (6a, 6b, 6c) of the second contact (2) comprises an inclined surface (10a, 10b, 10c) oriented opposite to the bearing surface (4) of the second rod (32), and wherein the first contact (1) and the second contact (2) are angularly linked such that: - the slots (7a, 7b, 7c) of the first contact (1) coincide with the slots (8a, 8b, 8c) of the second contact (2) in a direction parallel to the axis of displacement (A), and - the inclined surfaces (9a,9b,9c) of the branches (5a,5b,5c) of the first contact (1) are opposite, in a direction parallel to the axis of displacement (A), with the inclined surfaces (10a, 10b, 10c) of the branches (6a,6b,6c) of the second contact (2).;

2. Assembly (40) according to claim 1, wherein each branch (5a, 5b, 5c) of the first contact (1) comprises respectively a first end (1a, 1b, 1le) adjacent to a lateral surface (33) of the disk, and the first end (11a, 11b, 1le) of each branch (5a,5b,5c) is respectively opposite, along a direction (D3) parallel to the axis of displacement (A), with an edge (15a,15b,15c) of an adjacent branch (5b,5c,5a).

3. Assembly (40) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first contact (1) and the second contact (2) are symmetrical to each other with respect to a plane perpendicular to the axis of displacement (A).

4. Assembly (40) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a straight line (D2) perpendicular to the inclined surface (9a,9b,9c) of each branch (5a,5b,5c) of the first contact (1) forms respectively an angle (a) between 10° and 80° with a direction (Dl) parallel to the axis of displacement (A).

5. Assembly (40) according to any one of the preceding claims in combination with claim 2, wherein the first end (11a, 11b, 1le) of each branch (5a, 5b, 5c) of the first contact (1) has the shape of a half-cylinder extending along an axis parallel to the axis of displacement (A).

6. Assembly (40) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inclined surface (9a,9b,9c) of each branch (5a,5b,5c) of the first contact (1) is respectively extended by a portion (17a, 17b, 17c) of constant thickness, the portion (17a, 17b, 17c) of constant thickness extending in a plane (H) perpendicular to the axis of displacement (A).

7. Assembly (40) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inclined surface (9a,9b,9c) of each branch (5a,5b,5c) of the first contact (1) is respectively opposite, along a direction (D3) parallel to an orthoradial direction (Ta,Tb,Tc) of the disk, with an internal surface (19b, 19c, 19a) of an adjacent branch (5b,5c,5a), called interface surface.

8. Assembly (40) according to claim 7, wherein the interface surface (19b, 19c, 19a) of each branch adjacent (5b,5c,5a) to a given branch (5a,5b,5c) of the first contact (1) comprises respectively an inclined surface (21b, 21c, 21a) extending parallel to the inclined surface (9a,9b,9c) of said given branch (5a,5b,5c).

9. Assembly (40) according to claim 8, wherein: - the inclined surface (9a,9b,9c) of each branch (5a,5b,5c) of the first contact (1) extends from a first axial surface of the disk to a second axial surface of the disk, and - the inclined surface (21b, 21c, 21a) of the interface surface (19b, 19c, 19a) of a branch adjacent (5b,5c,5a) to a given branch (5a,5b,5c) extends from a first axial surface of the disk to a second axial surface of the disk.

10. Assembly (40) according to the preceding claim, wherein the inclined surface (9a,9b,9c) of each branch (5a,5b,5c) of the first contact (1) and the inclined surface (21b, 21c, 21a) of the interface surface (19b, 19c, 19a) of each branch adjacent (5b,5c,5a) to a given branch (5a,5b,5c) are parallel to each other.

11. Assembly (40) according to claim 8, wherein the interface surface (19b, 19c, 19a) of each branch adjacent (5b,5c,5a) to a given branch (5a,5b,5c) comprises respectively a portion (23b,23c,23a) extending in a plane parallel to the axis of displacement (A), each of said portions (23b,23c,23a) respectively extending the inclined surface (21b, 21c, 21a).

12. Assembly (40) according to claim 7, wherein the interface surface (19b, 19c, 19a) of each branch adjacent (5b,5c,5a) to a given branch (5a,5b,5c) comprises respectively a first portion (25b,25c,25a) extending in a plane (Rlb,Rlc,Rla) parallel to the axis of displacement (A), each plane (Rlb,Rlc,Rla) of extension of the first portion (25b,25c,25a) forming a radial plane of the disk.

13. Assembly (40) according to the preceding claim, wherein the interface surface (19b, 19c, 19a) of each branch adjacent (5b,5c,5a) to a given branch (5a,5b,5c) comprises respectively a second portion (27b,27c,27a) extending in a plane (R2b,R2c,R2a) parallel to the axis of displacement (A).

14. Assembly (40) according to the preceding claim, wherein each extension plane (R2b,R2c,R2a) of the second portion (27b,27c,27a) is respectively parallel to the extension plane (Rlb,Rlc,Rla) of the first portion (25b,25c,25a).

15. Assembly (40) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the interface surface (19b, 19c, 19a) of each branch adjacent (5b,5c,5a) to a given branch (5a,5b,5c) comprises respectively a third portion (29b,29c,29a) connecting the second portion (27b,27c,27a) and the first portion (25b,25c,25a), the third portion (29b,29c,29a) extending in a plane perpendicular to the axis of displacement (A).

16. Vacuum bulb (100) comprising a set of contacts according to any one of claims 1 to 15, the second contact (2) being movable between a position (F) in contact with the first contact (1) allowing the passage of electric current in the vacuum bulb (100) and a position (0) away from the first contact (1) prohibiting the passage of current in the vacuum bulb (100).

17. Vacuum bulb (100) comprising a set of contacts according to any one of claims 1 to 15, the two contacts (1,2) being configured to be moved in opposite directions along a displacement axis (A) between a closed position (F) permitting the passage of electric current in the vacuum bulb (100) and an open position (O) prohibiting the passage of current in the vacuum bulb (100).

18. Switching apparatus comprising a vacuum bulb (100) according to the preceding claim.

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